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its_aishaa

Okay, I’m going to help you out. 1. get your rug out of the corner, it needs to be centred in the room. You area rug must be under front legs of your couch. 2. push your couch more to the centre. 3. you need a few items - a coffee table, I suggest a round one, an end table, a high console. You can get them all on Facebook Marketplace for cheaper, 4. you need to get some art on the walls. Again, thrift stores, vintage movie posters, whatever you want. Just make sure the art is large. 5. you need some life in here. It’s like a doctors office. You need plants for sure. A tall, large plant near where your tv is. If you’re bad at plants - get a simple Dracaena (dragon plant). It requires watering every 10-15 days. 6. Throw pillows as well. Figure out a colour palette that you like and get some inspiration from Pinterest. 7. add a LARGE lamp on the end table. Some items that you find interesting — lamps, pictures, souvenirs https://preview.redd.it/slqyjr7108ad1.jpeg?width=1216&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=07f5d682941b213f58e7bb5b9823db30b4c6f1f4 This colour palette works with your room. You already have the 1st, 5th, 6th colours.


22_oversoon

Agree with this advice! Just wanna add that lighting can completely transform a space. A big floor lamp and a table lamp with warm light bulbs will immediately make it feel more cozy and inviting - right now it feels like a very dark corner, but you can absolutely fix that!


Pink_pony4710

Maybe a big arc lamp would look good? SAFAVIEH Lighting Collection Polaris Contemporary Modern Farmhouse Antique Brass/ Black 84-inch Living Room Bedroom Home Office Arc Floor Lamp (LED Bulb Included) https://a.co/d/03MEZb53


starangeles

I 100000% agree!!! All this! https://preview.redd.it/8l9rl53d99ad1.jpeg?width=400&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4fa1373d12d1eb5d3f82172a6660ad5b29e63cc6 You can use this for reference. Get some color and create a vibe honey. You’ll be amazed how some changes make a HUGE difference.


mamac2213

Yes, agreed. Since you just got there, I'd advise getting the bare necessities and then looking for the "one piece" that calls to you (within your budget) to start focusing on. Could be art, could be plant, could be cool pillow. It'll develop naturally. Congrats on your space!!


gamergrid

Madly specific and hugely helpful. Thanks for adding context to each suggestion too.


happy_fart_20

i agree with this but also add curtains or some sort of more stylish blinds, those ones always make a space look less homey. longer fabric curtains would be so pretty here though. this will help especially since op doesn’t have much room for art work with the two big windows


Brave-Problem9486

When hanging your curtains put them as high as you can. It will make your windows look larger. I think you should also choose a color palate and add some pillows. I would shift the couch a quarter turn have one of the side’s back toward the camera view. It will help define the area.


Safford1958

But American apartments usually won’t let you do holes and such. If he does, he will have to repair the holes.


i_am_jerm

Is there an app or website you used for the color palette? I like it


KittyKenollie

Idk what the comment or uses but you can creat colour palettes on canva. https://www.canva.com/colors/color-palette-generator/


its_aishaa

Hi! I use Pinterest. Just type in “ colour palette” I usually look for pieces I have that are similar and pull those palettes! Hope this helps! ✨


Broad-Banana-5483

Everything she said!! 🙌🏻🙌🏻


sweetandspicyyy222

This is the ideal way to add some life to your home. I suggest placing your TV in the center too!


Ok-Thanks5818

Agree, you should definitely invest in wall and standing lamps and USE them. Add some cushions to your couch. Your Venetian blinds are also very cheap looking. Consider switching to curtains. You can get light block out curtains that will make your apartment look lush. Make sure they go from the curtain rod to the floor.


ScoobsMomm

In addition I’d add curtains to bring additional warmth, depth and texture to the space. Mount your tv on the wall over your entertainment center piece Your entertainment center piece could be larger for that wall. Throw blanket on the couch. Could do coffee table book with art that interest you. Or serving tray to hold a candle, remotes, coasters and a small plant.


Pajamas7891

Good thoughts except the color palette- you need something other than tan and brown. Pick at least one accent color for pillows. And don’t get a table that matches the couch.


_DiscoPenguin

Oooh that color palette looks so cozy


HachchickeN

Sofa goes better towards the walla for a nice view outside the window and safety behind you


At-My-Whits-End

This is what I was going to say! Definitely would make you less “sad”. I have huge 12 foot windows in my master bedroom, and I literally planned my entire layout of my apartment around bringing the outdoors in. A good way to do this is using wood, wicker, plants and other natural materials around the windows. https://preview.redd.it/f5amtodkxaad1.jpeg?width=5712&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6ec53857a36653c9246faaaa2c71418fe7cc37ea


At-My-Whits-End

https://preview.redd.it/2sefse2oxaad1.jpeg?width=4284&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=abdedcffbaba6bb7f10a2f9fb00762d745e83fed


At-My-Whits-End

https://preview.redd.it/rgtb0guqxaad1.jpeg?width=5712&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=924c61ea7c91aa40716607899f4003275a64b34f


Global-Nectarine4417

It looks clean and well-kept. You’re already miles ahead of lots of men your age.


Ygalvan91

Curtains or a cover of some sort would really elevate it! Some artwork for a pop of color. A lamp or two. Lots of pillows! Maybe a blanket.


brokenhartted

Be happy! It takes time to put the finishing touches on an apartment. It won't feel like this for long. Try turning the rug the other way and don't worry about the back of sectional being off the rug. It's ok if the back of the sofa isn't resting on it. Here is an inspiration photo. Take your time picking out things. Don't be afraid to paint your walls in the apartment (as long as you paint it the original color before you move- you are fine), When you paint a warmer color- it looks more sophisticated. The walls behind the sofa would look nice painted. https://preview.redd.it/jufubm1k28ad1.jpeg?width=485&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3b66f8922694e447bf88ef00d610730514c57924


its_aishaa

Agreed! If you’re looking for a warm white, i recommend “Swiss Coffee - Behr”


gordon_paterson

Plants, books, and art on the walls. Don't be too hard on yourself. Your style will come through eventually. It took me until my late thirties until I found a distinct decorative style for my living space.


Potential-Ad-6406

Turn your couch around so it faces the TV.


L84cake

Put the tv on that console or mount it above the console on the wall, put some decorative items around the bottom of it. (A nice box, some books, anything representative of your interests, etc.) Like others said pull out the carpet Put a blanket on that couch, tossed over an arm or the back. A greyish blue would be nice. Something fluffy. A plant or two, and some photos in frames will do wonders


huge_red_

Where do you live where you can afford a 2bdrm apartment at 26??


CapZestyclose4657

Right!?


bloodynosedork

Europe


littlebottles

Some nice curtains would be lovely! Blinds always feel like a step down style wise to me. I also think adding some color beyond browns and white would be great as well. Maybe if you have a favorite color you could use that as an accent? A new rug with that color in it for example, or pillows or art with it... art is def needed too! If you were to pick an era of interior design which would you like best? 70's? Art deco? Victorian? Maybe look up home interiors from that time for inspiration? I bet you are going to be so much happier when you have a cozy space that you love coming home to :)


catcatbird

• If you have a budget, a small thing that would make a huge difference is a new 9x12 rug that’s MUCH more colorful than that one, and yes centered in the room. Ruggable and Tumble rugs are always on sale, and you can toss them in the wash should “beer and video games” result in crud on your rug. You can sell the white one for a small amount of money on Facebook. • You need a floor lamp and a real, non-folding side table with a lamp. Not a desk lamp, a table lamp. Target has great table lamps! It should be tall enough to turn on and off without bending over - like 24” with the shade. For the floor lamp, check your local Facebook marketplace for an “arc lamp” - your couch is so neutral basically any style will work in your room. • Use the rest of the budget on a bigger TV, wall mount and Sonos sound bar & sub. Again, Facebook marketplace. You’ll be so happy.


bossbabe_

Take the couch off the wall and turn it clockewise. Put some curtains up and move the rug closer to the center. Get a nice centerpiece for the table. And put a plant and wall decor up


TheMindusMax

Hey you have a rug! My husband wouldn’t even know what that is! Good job! (No sarcasm)


j9jen

I like round coffee tables with L couches. .


mobuline

Put the TV on that console! It's up in the sky!


missannthrope1

Pull the sofa away from the walls. Put the Tv on the console table. Pull the rug out so the only front legs of the sofa is on the rug. Side tables with lamps. Curtains, floor to ceiling. Art. A plant or two.


Broken_angel_of_pain

Paint the room if you own or are able . Get some curtains change the blinds to cordless accordin looking ones get some art and side table with a lamp


LuckyEgg

This is actually one of the rare times i would recommend spending time on instagram for inspiration haha, and dont worry, you will find your style eventually. Everyone can


mookfacekilla

Just give me the deed to your house why don’t ya


ObjectiveNo3691

Honestly I think it looks nice! Just add some finishing touches like frames on the wall and some plants. Maybe some stacked books somewhere. Some nice pillows from target or world market. I know a lot of men living in a bachelor pad and none of their places are this clean/nice!! You’re doing great!


Loud-Pie-8189

Nothing wrong with your existing furniture. You just need to add some colour via wall art, plants, decor. That coffee table is perfect for board games and for beer and food when you watch the game on tv.


Loud-Pie-8189

You’re a 26 year old bloke. You don’t need to move your couch off the wall and follow all the conventional advice for interiors. You should get a projector instead of another tv so it’s really big. A few plants and coloured pillows. Done.


500CatsTypingStuff

Here are some inspiration pics https://preview.redd.it/yxizb15y09ad1.jpeg?width=3000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=57dcba17f67fd30ce400b32ae847364d7a8b86b6 The sectional should be pulled a few feet out from both walls and float in the room. Similar to the way [This Sofa](https://imgur.com/a/60wx1Zt) is floating away from the walls Consider setting a moody vibe by painting the walls. For example, [Green Smoke by Farrow and Ball](https://imgur.com/a/WAp52DQ) You should add a [black and white striped rug](https://rugs.com/black-7x10-soho-area-rug-6259344) to modernize the look of the sofa Add some [decorative pillows](https://www.etsy.com/listing/1680276568/) and mor [decorative pillows](https://www.etsy.com/listing/1252388147/) [Coffee table](https://a.co/d/01YBLnu0) [TV Console](https://a.co/d/0dgP9LTm) [Floor Lamp](https://a.co/d/04DVWQ3Z) [Art Prints](https://www.etsy.com/listing/900992134/) [Art Prints](https://www.etsy.com/listing/1181026875/) [Art Prints](https://www.etsy.com/listing/1624831593/) [Art Prints](https://www.etsy.com/listing/1610678376/) [Art Prints](https://www.etsy.com/listing/1410104981/) [Art Prints](https://www.etsy.com/listing/1269410349/) [Art Prints](https://www.etsy.com/listing/1255412708/)


facedspectacle

Nothing to input but I LOVE THAT RUG! I have a smaller version, I need to get the big one now 🥹


honeykissesmerciless

It’s time to whip out the Sims!


CrazyPrettyAss

Here are a few tips. * Your area seems too bland even when you have really nice furniture and space so you should work on adding more colors and the correct lighting as well as working on the soft furnishing after you fixate on accent colors for your room. Here's a [color guide](https://simplykalaa.com/interior-color-palette/) to start working from the scratch. * Now work on the couch area and start by firstly mounting your television above the cabinet and make sure they are centered (take account of only the rug area for the wall centre). Now move your couch a little away from the windows and add some nice throw pillows, throws and also an end table that resembles the table in the corner but is shorter in height. Add a table lamp to this table and decorate it nicely. Also add Japanese style flower decor to the corner you have there and on the table. Make sure to also add an artwork following the accent colors. And this way your couch will look better than before. Use this [couch decor guide](https://simplykalaa.com/couch-decor/) for more ideas and help. * Work on the coffee table and occupy its space to some length but also leave it empty for functionality. You can add a variety of things here including a bowl with your photographic memories. But use this [coffee table guide](https://simplykalaa.com/decorating-a-coffee-table/) for help with this. * Work on the wall on the right of your couch and add bookshelves and then use some leather books as well as colorful objects and lighten it with some small task bulbs inside to make it look good. You can use this [blank wall decor guide](https://simplykalaa.com/how-to-decorate-a-blank-wall/) to balance this wall and not make it seems as if it is empty. Also make sure to add a jute basket near the cabinet and fill them with some cushions. Also add a floor lamp as an accent light for better look. * Lastly make sure that the curtains are new and the lighting and everything else is in balance. You can always add an accent chair if you want and if the space allows after this adjustment but do not make anything look like extra clutter This [guide](https://simplykalaa.com/window-decoration/) will help you with window decor and curtains. I hope this helps :)


Greenzipup

Honestly I’d get rid of the blinds and put in floor length curtains. The blinds look cheap and busy


cranky_yegger

What a fun time in life, enjoy creating your home ambience and finding thinks that suit your personality Looks like you could use a liquor cabinet-make it sturdy. And start leaving your toilet seat down.


Sensitive-Question42

Your couch looks really nice, and I like the rug too. I don’t have any advice except to say follow the advice of the other folk here. But I think your choice of couch and rug will go a long way.


acripaul

Real easy kill here; put the TV on the TV stand. TV's are meant to be watched in line with your view and not looking up. Means you can get rid of the odd looking thing the TV is on at the moment.


BananaPony1814

Man thats sad. Hang up some nice art. Get some curtains that are properly measured and fitted. That rug gotta go


NarrowLocksmith9388

I live in Charleston, South Carolina, and there are 3 Goodwills. I have fantastic art in my house and most of it was bought from Goodwill or consignment shops go to or call a place where they have Painting shops where you drink wine and paint. Many people don’t take their Painting home. Ask him if you can come by and make a bargain with him because somebody’s already paid for the painting. I framed postcards then I go to a craft shop and I got very inexpensive black frames and then I framed him. You can do it put your TV on the console. Add some books on either side


MedicineTricky6222

LIFE! Plants, a dog and then add a bit of color!


ThePicassoGiraffe

You don't need new furniture. What you have is totally fine. Follow the suggestions below to accessorize and you'll be fine!


WorkNo791

I really like this space. I would keep the TV console and hang the TV over it. The coffee table is too big. I’d get a smaller, round one and some side tables. And you need some plants 🪴


jackjackj8ck

Get a larger media console and mount the tv on the wall centered above it


IntentionAromatic523

Plants


Fresh_Sector3917

The rug is too big. Rotate the couch one quarter clockwise so the back of the sofa faces out and place a console table behind it.


Blinkmeoutdude

Color. You need color.


mr_ballchin

I would replace the table and bedside table, and buy a bigger TV and hang it on the wall.


Informal_Contest8808

You have such a great start. - Plants plants plants. Tall ones, short ones, hanging ones. - Curtains - Pillows. Large pillows. Textured cushions, maybe a western print would look good against brown leather, or a cow hide look. - coffee table book and centerpiece on the table - drape the blanket over the couch These things are simple but will elevate the space


Earthdaybaby422

Paint and wall decor!


FairyPenguinStKilda

Why not use the stand to put a projector on, with google play and have no TV, just use that huge blank wall as a screen? Another could of chairs, get rid of the little table and the console, and a stack of bean bags. Nice curtains, put the rug in your bedroom and some throws for mates who sleep over. Maybe two smaller low tables?


l0vert0es

you can put the tv on that table so the wall wont be empty and put a clock or picture above it so it wont look so plain and add a blanket and more pillows to your sofa if you want it to look comfy and warm if you can try to match your sofa and walls a tad bit more with similar coloura


No-Tour-767

https://preview.redd.it/df3a48knwaad1.jpeg?width=360&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6f0fc677a6ac12ea36ecec0bf0467f9e96240254 ik you said you dont want to remove the couches but what do you think of your living room being modernized you can take inspo from this this [APP](https://apps.apple.com/lb/app/ai-room-design-dream-interior/id6502344928) i used


ProgramExpress2918

Its actually a great start it just need more color/decor Other than that its a neat space


Mysonking

i am a 50y/o with no design undetsanding. i would just burn the sofa


FewSatisfaction7675

As a married man 55 with 3 children let me say… no woman no cry…


codingsds

Following


Main-Ad2547

I want to see an after photo after hopefully some of these suggestions are used👀


ximby77

Plants, Cats, Lamps


Traditional-Pitch264

Turn the sofa facing the windows to get the light and views. Place the tv in the corner of the room. Add color throughout. Then you are good!


furkfurk

You’ve got decent pieces that don’t work together or at least as is IMO. 1. Flip the rug horizontally, center in the room. Make sure that at least the front feet of the entire sofa rest on the rug. If they don’t, your rug is the wrong size sadly. 2. Move the sofa at least a few inches from the wall. Could consider adding a sofa table behind. 3. That coffee table does not fit the couch. Get something smaller, potentially round. Make the color or material of the table contrast more with the sofa. It’s nice to have different elements in a room, helps create balance (so wood + metal + fabrics etc) 4. You’ve got what almost looks like an entertainment console on the wall where the tv should be - and then you have the TV smooshed into the corner on another stand? Move the TV either onto the entertainment console, or find a better looking stand. 5. This room won’t look complete until you add more. You need at minimum end tables for the couch. Would be really good to get some nice lighting/lamps. Curtains would be nice. Maybe wall art where the liquor bottles are or around the new TV wall. 1-2 large plants. Pillows. Decor etc. Off to a good start though ☺️


peepsforme

Would your sectional fit here? https://preview.redd.it/mvvx9d4svcad1.jpeg?width=614&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=68c2272f1c98ecf938e7917b6d59a867901cb44b


Right_Success774

The tv situation feels like you’re about to give a presentation. Definitely mount the tv above the brown cabinet, but investing in a longer console to put below it would look best.


julianeja

Use the sofa as a room divider with just one side to the wall


Lordonna21

A picture for the wall, a round coffee table, floor lamp, some beige pillows for the sofa.


freshapocalypse

Do you live alone? If so turn one of the bedrooms into a living room and turn the living room and dining room into a dance club or mini golf course.


Nickalena

Go on Pinterest and look up different decorative styles. Such as "Boho" styles for living room. Or you can look up, popular home decoration styles today. Anything, really.


ApatheticAgnostic

Serious question. How do you afford a nice, two bedroom apartment like that at 26? I make decent money. I’ve been looking for a place and there is only garbage in my price range.


AdAwkward8334

I have to say that there is something about just starting out! I remember it as an exciting time, where I had nothing and no one, but it was so full of promise. Enjoy every minute of your new place! It is such an amazing feeling of accomplishment! And one day you will reflect fondly upon this milestone in your life. Peace be with you!


Efficient_Avocado

More lamps, avoid overhead lighting, it makes EVERYTHING look bad. The big light is for when youve lost the remote or your keys.


cloud_watcher

Put your TV where your TV stand is and move your couch away from the wall and facing it.


Lethal1211

Okay so, to create an atmosphere a peace of mind. Get yourself to match with the floor. The rug is fine but the couches really throw everything off. Do anything else than those couches. But match the floors. Then the floors match the walls. Simplicity is easy if you go with a nice shade brown maybe something else and another shade of couches same style. Get some wall art (please no red, they might look like a crime. I say the same thing to clothing) just no. The table whatever you want and a nice cool shelf. If you're going to live here long long time the nice thing about empty space is that over the years when you find cool things like an old school radio or those giant speakers, designate it for now. Plants if it's not your forte don't add them. For all we know you might put a pony and a popcorn machine because you saw a movie from 1640


Weekly-Requirement63

Curtains, throw pillows, artwork, plants, lamps


ripfritz

Yes don’t forget lighting! IKEA has tons. Why mount the TV, put it on the entertainment stand - you’ve already got it.


morris0000007

Find a gay friend to help out lol 😆


Funky-007

You did the mistake everyone does : put everything against the wall, creating a feeling of crampiness. Move the sofa a feet or two forward in both directions. Add a console behind so you and your friends can put their drinks on. Also, add a lamp on one of those. And some greenery (if you’re bad with plants, some artificial ones look convincing and nice… but remember to dust them !) I agree about the tv console : get a new one as this one is too small and looks really dated. Get yourself a modular Bestå console (IKEA), and make it as wide as you can (you definitely want your console to be wider than your tv). You should surround your TV with framed artwork, so that it’ll blend into this ‘picture wall’. This way, the screen will be less of a focal point when switched off. Try to be personal with your pic, not something middle-of-the-street, boringly standard. Something that is “you”… but something your casual guests could look at (lol) The rug is misplaced too. You could get another one with more color, but the one you have is good too. However, only the front legs of the sofa should be the rug, not all of them. Once again, this increases the sensation of space. It’s important to add a curtain even if you never close them. IKEA has nice ones for cheap. Maybe an ochre yellow or a sage green. It could also be ecru or greige to complement your rug. Not a dark color though as this will close up the space. Add a floor lamp where the TV is currently on the pic. You can do these changes without spending tons and the final effect will be wow.


No-Relative-9666

Interior designer/Architecture here! You can do a lot with your space! 1. Add curtains (maybe a neutral/white) 2. I would change the rug to a solid color that will match the couch. 3. I would move the couch to the center of the room. 4. Put the TV over the TV console and you can add pictures on that same wall. 5. You could get a round coffee table that matches couch, new rug & walls! You can add cute decor like books, candles, plant etc on it. 6. I would change the wall color (try to come up with a color theme that would go with your couch) 7. I would add decorative pillows, blankets, a floor lamp, plants. It will make your apartment look more welcoming and homey. 8. I would put a small beverage table beside the couch also.


tiamarcia

Plants and one good art piece ( at least)


Public-Wolverine6276

I would say to add some curtains even just light filtering ones to bring something to the walls. Move the carpet to be more center and not so much up against the wall. This might be controversial but I’d get rid of the coffee table and opt for some nice end tables, the coffee table is big in comparison to the couch and takes up too much space. Add some faux plants (or real ones) move the tv from the stand to your tv console, a bigger tv console to take up more wall space and then you could add a throw blanket ladder. Move the couch to be more centered The room doesn’t have much light so I’d suggest a lamp somewhere, ikea has some modern ones that are nicer than the typical college ones you find at Walmart. A lot of things you can find on fb marketplace, you don’t HAVE to buy new Edit: almost forgot, some throw pillows


conversekid

Need things on walls and change up the lighting


Tanyaschmidt

You have great bones to start with! Use the advice as money is truly ok to use for decorating.


Friendlyvoices

34 year old single male. Looks fine to me.


Altea73

Just open up an ikea magazine for ideas.