25 Living Room Accessories Ideas

Transforming your living room doesn’t always require a full renovation. Sometimes, small accessories make the biggest impact.

From adding a splash of color to introducing texture, the right elements can turn a dull space into a lively, welcoming environment.

Below, I’ve curated 25 creative and practical ideas, backed by insights and examples, that will elevate your living room instantly.

1. Statement Rugs

A rug isn’t just something to walk on—it’s the anchor of your living room design. Rugs can define a seating area, introduce color, and even add warmth during colder months. According to a 2024 Houzz survey, 62% of homeowners consider rugs essential for tying together a room’s aesthetic.

When choosing a rug, think about texture and pattern. A fluffy shag adds coziness, while a geometric pattern injects energy. Personally, I swapped a plain beige rug for a vibrant Moroccan design, and suddenly my entire living room felt alive. Tip: match rug size to your furniture layout—not the room size.

2. Throw Pillows

Throw pillows are like jewelry for your sofa. They’re versatile, affordable, and instantly refreshing. Mix textures like velvet, linen, and faux fur, and vary shapes—think rectangles, squares, and even cylindrical bolsters.

Fun fact: Rotating pillows seasonally can subtly influence the room’s vibe without buying new furniture. A cozy winter setup might include thick wool pillows, while summer calls for cotton or linen with bright colors.

3. Wall Art

Empty walls are missed opportunities. Art communicates personality. According to the American Society of Interior Designers, rooms with art tend to feel 30% more inviting to visitors.

Try mixing framed prints, paintings, and 3D wall sculptures. A gallery wall with mismatched frames can feel curated, not chaotic. My trick: start with a large central piece and surround it with smaller accents for balance.

4. Decorative Mirrors

Mirrors do more than reflect—they expand space and light. A well-placed mirror can make a small living room feel twice its size. A 2023 study by Interior Trends found that rooms with strategically placed mirrors appeared 25% brighter on average.

Oval mirrors soften angles, while large rectangular mirrors give a modern feel. Pro tip: hang a mirror across from a window to bounce natural light throughout the room.

5. Indoor Plants

Plants bring life to your living room—literally. From air-purifying snake plants to dramatic fiddle-leaf figs, greenery improves aesthetics and wellbeing. NASA studies show indoor plants can reduce indoor pollutants by up to 30%.

I keep a mix of large leafy plants on the floor and small succulents on shelves. This creates a layered look that feels natural, not staged. Remember to choose plants based on light availability—low-light rooms need hardy plants like pothos or ZZ plants.

6. Table Lamps

Lighting shapes mood. Table lamps aren’t just functional—they’re decorative statements. A bold lamp can double as art. According to Lighting Research Center, layered lighting (overhead + lamps) increases comfort and usability by 40%.

Mix materials like metal, glass, and wood. Personal favorite: a brass lamp with a linen shade—it blends modern and classic effortlessly. Position lamps next to seating areas for cozy reading nooks.

7. Floor Lamps

While table lamps handle tasks, floor lamps create atmosphere. Arc floor lamps add drama, while tripod lamps bring mid-century charm.

Consider placement: a corner lamp can fill dark spots, making the room feel larger. My tip: use a dimmer to adjust brightness, giving the living room versatility for movie nights or conversations.

8. Coffee Table Books

Coffee tables don’t have to be bare. Books spark conversation and reflect personality. Choose books with striking covers or themes you love—travel, architecture, photography.

Layer books with decorative objects like bowls or candles. A stack of 3-5 books is ideal—it’s balanced, not cluttered. I always keep one quirky book to add a touch of humor for guests.

9. Decorative Trays

Trays organize and style simultaneously. They corral remotes, candles, or small accessories, keeping the coffee table neat.

Metal, wood, or mirrored trays can set the tone: mirrored trays feel glamorous, wood feels warm and rustic. Tip: always group items in odd numbers for a visually appealing display.

10. Candles

Candles are subtle but powerful. They add warmth, scent, and intimacy. A 2022 survey by Yankee Candle revealed 78% of homeowners associate candles with relaxation and comfort.

Vary heights and textures. Group candles in clusters for impact or place a single statement candle on a shelf. I love rotating scents seasonally—spiced cinnamon in fall, fresh linen in summer.

11. Vases

Vases are more than flower holders—they’re decor pieces on their own. Tall ceramic vases add height; small glass vases bring delicacy.

Even without flowers, vases fill empty spaces with elegance. Personally, I keep a vase on my console table filled with dried pampas grass for low-maintenance texture.

12. Wall Clocks

Wall clocks combine style and function. A striking clock can become a focal point. From oversized modern designs to vintage-inspired options, clocks can anchor a wall without overwhelming it.

Pro tip: coordinate the clock’s material with other metals in the room to keep the design cohesive.

13. Sculptures

Sculptures add personality and sophistication. Small tabletop pieces can elevate shelves, while larger floor sculptures make a bold statement.

Consider abstract forms or figurative designs that complement your style. I like using a bronze abstract sculpture to contrast a soft sofa—unexpected contrast makes spaces interesting.

14. Decorative Bowls

Bowls are surprisingly versatile. They organize while adding texture and color. Use them to hold keys, potpourri, or decorative orbs.

Material choice matters: glass feels sleek, ceramic is earthy, and metal can add shine. A well-placed bowl can tie together diverse colors in a room effortlessly.

15. Poufs and Ottomans

Extra seating and style in one. Poufs and ottomans are flexible: footrests, coffee tables, or extra seating. Fabric choice defines style: velvet feels luxurious, woven cotton feels casual.

I have a bright mustard pouf that pops against my neutral sofa—it’s like a smile in the room.

16. Curtains and Drapes

Window treatments are accessories too. They frame windows and influence ambiance. Heavy curtains add drama; sheer panels feel airy.

Pro tip: hang curtains closer to the ceiling to make ceilings feel taller. Layering drapes with blinds gives functional flexibility and style.

17. Throw Blankets

Blankets are comfortable and stylish. Drape a chunky knit over a sofa for winter or a lightweight linen throw in summer. Color can tie your room together or introduce a seasonal accent.

I rotate my throws by season—warm reds in winter, cool blues in summer—which subtly refreshes the living room.

18. Accent Chairs

Accent chairs are accessories that blend function and style. Bold colors or patterns make them focal points.

Position them strategically: near a coffee table or reading nook. A velvet accent chair in emerald green can energize a neutral-toned living room effortlessly.

19. Bookshelves

Bookshelves are decorative and functional. Open shelving displays books, art, and collectibles. According to a 2023 study, 71% of homeowners use shelves to showcase personality.

Balance books with decorative items. My trick: alternate vertical and horizontal book stacks for visual interest.

20. Wall Shelves

Floating wall shelves utilize vertical space creatively. Ideal for small living rooms where floor space is limited.

Use them for plants, sculptures, or framed photos. Odd-numbered groupings make displays feel intentional and curated.

21. Decorative Pillars and Pedestals

Pedestals highlight art pieces or plants. They create height and dimension, drawing the eye upward.

In my living room, a white pedestal elevates a small sculpture, giving it prominence without cluttering surfaces.

22. Lighting Fixtures

Beyond lamps, statement lighting transforms space. Chandeliers, pendant lights, or LED accent strips can define style.

Layering different light sources creates depth. A chandelier can anchor the room, while sconces provide subtle mood lighting.

23. Wall Decals and Tapestries

Tapestries and decals add texture, color, and personality. Perfect for renters who can’t paint walls.

Tapestries bring softness, while decals are versatile and removable. I once used a tapestry to cover an awkward wall alcove—it instantly felt intentional.

24. Decorative Storage Baskets

Baskets organize without sacrificing style. Woven textures introduce warmth, while colorful patterns bring energy.

Use them to store blankets, magazines, or toys. The 2022 Home Organization Report found that 68% of homeowners with baskets feel their living space is tidier and more welcoming.

25. Seasonal Decor

Finally, rotate decor seasonally. Pumpkins in fall, greenery in spring, festive accents in winter. This keeps your living room feeling fresh and lively without major overhauls.

Even a small change, like swapping pillow covers or vases, can shift the room’s energy. Personally, I see seasonal swaps as mini-makeovers—they’re quick, fun, and budget-friendly.

Conclusion

Accessorizing your living room is like spinning a kaleidoscope—small shifts create entirely new patterns. Rugs, pillows, art, lighting, and even seasonal touches can completely transform your space. Remember: mix textures, vary heights, and layer colors to create depth. Start small with a few accessories, observe the impact, and expand gradually. A well-accessorized living room isn’t just beautiful—it’s welcoming, functional, and a true reflection of your personality.

By incorporating these 25 living room accessories, you’ll have a space that’s stylish, functional, and uniquely yours.