Why We Love Living Room Fusion… and You Should Too
If you haven’t heard of Living Room Fusion then it’s a great pleasure to introduce you to it. It’s one of my favourite design styles… in fact, I think I may have invented it because there’s not much on Google about it.
Go ahead… Google ‘Living Room Fusion’ and you’ll see there’s virtually nothing there. Which is why we love living room fusion.. and you should too.
Living room fusion, as the name suggests, is when different design styles are ‘fused’ together creating a seamless blend. So let’s embark on a visual odyssey where we navigate the eclectic fusion of Hollywood Glam, modern Southern California ease, and the timeless allure of Art Deco.
Art Deco + Hollywood Glam mixed with some modern Southern California cool
What Is Living Room Fusion?
Whilst you can create a beautiful fusion of design styles in any room, today I’m talking about the living room. However, you can apply these ideas to any room. My ideal fusion of styles is Hollywood Glam and Art Deco mixed with modern Southern California and a touch of Asian. Sometimes, I’ll throw in some mid-century modern.
Living room fusion can be any fusion of styles. For example, mix Hamptons with French Provincial and you’d likely get lots of duck egg blue, pale woods, and displays of ginger jars.
Hamptons + French Provincial
If you mixed the design styles of Hamptons and French Provincial you’d see a subtle dynamism because they are very similar design styles.
There would be lots of blue and beige, stone and wood, floral and check fabric patterns, rattan, seagrass and metal.
However, if you mixed more diverse styles you would start to see a living room fusion that excites and delights.
Mid-Century with French + Brutalist
Mixing these styles, you start to see the colours and softness of mid-century modern upholstery with the hard surfaces of brutalist design. The French influence is the least obvious but can be seen in the oak herringbone flooring.
Living room fusion can be as little or as much as you desire in formulating a unique and label-free design composition.
We don’t need labels to tell us how to decorate. They can be useful to set a loose design direction or explain a particular style we like. However, mixing it up brings personality and uniqueness to your spaces.
As I mentioned earlier, I love playing around with different styles. My fave fusion is Hollywood Glam + Art Deco + Modern Southern California then I’ll add Asian or Mid-Century Modern as the mood takes me. Let’s look a little deeper at what to focus on for this exciting living room fusion.
The Extravagance of Hollywood Glam
Velvet and Jewel Tones:
A key feature of Hollywood Glam is plush velvet sofas and occasional chairs in bold jewel tones – think deep emerald greens, royal blues, and rich burgundies. Luxurious texture and opulence define Hollywood Glam.
Gold Accents:
The liberal use of gold accents adds to the luxe feel and reflection of light – from gilded frames to metallic finishes on furniture. Gold should add a touch of glamour without overpowering the space.
Iconic Hollywood Imagery:
Use wall art and sculptures reminiscent of classic Hollywood glamour. This could include iconic movie scenes, vintage celebrity portraits, or even behind-the-scenes moments that exude the magic of old Hollywood.
Example of a fusion of Palm Springs Glam with Mid-Century Modern
Southern California Serenity
Natural Light and Indoor-Outdoor Flow:
Modern Southern California design captures abundant natural light streaming through large windows. Spaces that seamlessly connect the indoors with nature, blurring the lines between inside and outside.
California Palette:
The colour palette is inspired by the California landscape – sandy neutrals, ocean blues, and sun-kissed yellows. Think about incorporating these colours in furnishings, decor, and accent pieces. They also fit very well into the Australian coastal landscape.
Comfortable Sophistication:
Look for furnishings that strike a balance between comfort and sophistication. Think oversized, inviting sofas paired with sleek and modern coffee tables.
One of my favourite images mixing Hollywood + Palm Springs Glam with Art Deco and Mid-Century Modern
Art Deco Elegance
Geometric Patterns and Luxe Materials:
The timeless allure of Art Deco often features geometric patterns, sleek lines, and luxurious materials. Marble, brass, and mirrored surfaces bring Art Deco elegance to life.
Iconic Art Deco Architecture:
Iconic Art Deco architecture is wonderful for inspiring a modern style in our living and bedroom spaces. Consider elements like stepped forms, chevron patterns, and bold symmetry.
Bold, Angular Elements:
Furnishings and decor that embody the bold, angular aesthetics of Art Deco are still very available. Think statement lighting fixtures, angular furniture pieces, and bold wall art.
It’s hard to label this fusion of Art Deco and Mid-Century Modern with some Hollywood Glam and modern Southern California influences
I am a big fan of several designers but am influenced by Jenna Lyons and Kelly Wearstler in particular. Both break all the rules, radically play with colour and shape, and greatly influence modern interior design, in my opinion.
Jenna Lyons is more ‘accessible’ when designing for Australian homes and lifestyle. Let’s see what creates the Jenna Lyons magic and how you can use these ideas in your own home.
The Magic of Jenna Lyons
Unexpected and Quirky Design Elements:
Infuse the unexpected and whimsical with images that reflect Jenna Lyons' signature style. Look for contemporary art installations, quirky furniture pieces, or unexpected design elements that bring a sense of playfulness.
Playful Patterns and Color Combinations:
Explore the interplay of bold patterns and unexpected color combinations. Think about how these elements can add a touch of irreverence and charm to the overall design.
Mixing High and Low:
Consider images that showcase the art of mixing high-end and more affordable pieces, a characteristic feature of Jenna Lyons' approach to design.
I was influenced by Jenna Lyons when I created this living room fusion with Asian influences
Harmonious Integration for Australian Homes
Neutral Backdrop:
Look for inspiration that showcases the seamless integration of these diverse styles, focusing on a neutral backdrop that allows individual elements to shine. Consider walls painted in soft whites or light greys, even black, providing a canvas for the varied design elements.
Gallery Walls:
Explore the idea of gallery walls featuring a mix of modern art pieces and Hollywood memorabilia. Consider the placement of these pieces to create a cohesive yet eclectic visual narrative.
Capturing the Ambiance:
Seek out photos that capture the overall mood and ambiance of the envisioned living room fusion. Focus on images that convey a sense of unity, where each design element contributes to the overall harmony of the space.
Need More Help?
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