7 Built-In Ideas to Make Your Living Room Beautiful and Functional

The living room is where you spend the bulk of your time with friends, family, and even alone with a good book or Netflix binge, so it's important it boasts both form and function.

Ahead are 7 examples of living room built-ins that prove you really can have it all.

01 Give It Old-World Charm

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Alabaster Natural Stone Wall Light Sconce - Elegant Natural Stone Lighting for Home Decor - Perfect for Living Room, Kitchen, and Bedroom Wall Lights

While stonework is frequently sought by exterior designers, it can also introduce old-world charm to the interiors of your home. The Alabaster Natural Stone Wall Light Sconce beautifully complements living room built-ins, providing elegant illumination framed in natural stone. This stylish addition enhances the charm of any modern decor, making it perfect for your living room.

02 Elevate Your Built-Ins

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Flexillum Living Room Flush Mount 16" - Sleek Design with Angular Details, Versatile Placement, and Dimmer Switch Compatible - Perfect for Living Room, Ceiling Lamps for Living Room, and Lounge Lights Ceiling

When designing your built-ins, it's the smallest details that distinguish a good build from an exceptional one.   Adding a sleek flush mount above can elevate your space into a high-end statement area.   Its angular details and versatility in placement—along with dimmer switch compatibility—make it the perfect ceiling lamp for your living room or lounge area.

03 Add Subtle Dimension

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A subtly contrasted paint job looks sophisticated without feeling boring. This ecru and white color scheme adds tons of dimension (even more than your recessed built-ins boast on their own), while still looking bright and airy.

04 Play With Pastel

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Think of your built-in paint color as the first hue on your blank canvas. Rows of shelves will act as the backdrop for your favorite books and collectibles, so choose the color accordingly. We love how this pastel green unit makes the neutrals in this room pop.

05 Consider Your Needs

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If you're building a unit from scratch, be sure to consider your needs as you design the display-to-storage ratio. If you have a big collection of items to display, use shelves and cubes to show them off. On the other hand, if you're looking to hide more unsightly items, like board games, seasonal décor, or arts and crafts supplies, tuck them away behind cabinet doors and pull-out drawers.

06 Don't Be Afraid to Get Moody

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A common misconception is that black paint makes a room appear smaller. The truth is, it can actually open up a space and boasts glamorous undertones. This black built-in is proof.

07 Frame Your TV

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Generic entertainment centers do a great job at framing your TV, but if you want something that fits your space as well as your electronics, a custom built-in is the way to go. You can still use your TV as the anchor, but at least the rest of your area will be filled in nicely.