Choosing stylish cabinet furniture for the living room is 90% the key to success. After all, this is the largest piece of furniture in the room, which will attract the most attention. In addition, usually a TV is placed in the slide, which means that views will be directed in this direction. We have collected stylish and original options that are trending in 2022.
Minimalist slide
Over the past few seasons, one of the most stylish trends in interior design has been the pursuit of minimalism. This topic also included slides for the living room. What are they? These are completely closed shelving (so that there are no unnecessary details in the room) without handles.
The composition looks more complete if the TV is not recessed inside the cabinet, but is located on the same level as the doors. If you choose a minimalist slide to match the wall, it will visually expand the space. This is especially true for living rooms up to 15 square meters.
Recommendations for buyers
When choosing a furniture cabinet for the living room, you need to decide what will be stored in it. To place clothes you need a wardrobe; for dishes, choose a cabinet with shelves and glass doors.
If a TV or audio equipment will be installed in the wall, you must choose cabinets with large shelves. Some people need shelves for books or a cupboard for dishes.
There are minimally shaped walls in the form of a TV stand and several shelves for arranging decor. A correctly selected wall will replace several pieces of furniture and save free space in the room.
In addition to its functional purpose, furniture is selected depending on the area of the room, taking into account the height of the ceiling, stylistic design and color scheme of the interior.
In order not to make a mistake, you need to take measurements of the room and take into account everything down to the smallest detail. Sometimes it is important to stay within the budget allocated for the purchase, so you need to make calculations in advance.
Classic
Until now, classics are most often used to design living rooms. And this is not surprising. The style creates a very cozy and relaxing atmosphere. In addition, the classics can rightly be called the most solemn style, so it will be pleasant to receive guests in such a living room.
Nowadays, a lighter version of the classic is in fashion, so light-colored furniture is more common. Dark massive slides are suitable for cottages; in an apartment I would like to see a more sophisticated option.
Also, the distinctive features of the classics include an abundance of glass, symmetry, the presence of figured cornices and decorative panels, doors with panels and interesting handles made of heavy metal.
If you don't like white furniture, take a closer look at the models in café au lait color. In 2022, he firmly conquered the pages of fashionable glossy interior design magazines. The color is as versatile as possible, pleasing to the eye and very cozy.
White slides have their own advantages. There is no other color that also “saves” space. Even such a large piece of furniture as a wall-sized slide will not look bulky if you choose white.
In general, open shelves also make furniture lighter, but the important point is what you fill them with. In classics, every detail is important, so you need to think in advance what items will end up on the open shelving.
It is better that they are in the same style and similar colors. How can you recognize the interior created by the designer at a glance? The shelves in it will be half empty. After all, the task of the slide is to become not just a storage place, but an interior decoration. Ideally, things should occupy no more than 30-40% of the total open space.
Corner
It is preferable to place slides of this type in large rooms, especially those with a square configuration. In small apartments, such a wall will look too massive and therefore inappropriate, since the corner section will “absorb” the space on both sides at once, visually reducing the already small size of the room.
Owners of spacious living rooms, even choosing a furniture option such as a corner wall-mounted wall with a wardrobe, can easily solve the problem of filling an empty corner. You can also purchase such slides for a medium-sized hall, if this is not the only room in the apartment.
Slides with fireplace
Could there be a more cozy element in the living room than a fireplace? I think no. Nowadays, real wood-burning fireplaces are used extremely rarely, and gas and electric fireplaces can be built into furniture. This will not harm the slide or the equipment.
At the moment, the location of the fireplace under the TV has become a classic. For the composition to look organic, their sizes should be approximately the same. The TV can be a third smaller because it is located higher. But it is better not to purchase a fireplace that is too small: it may simply get lost against the background of the entire wall and not produce the desired effect.
By the way, the slide under the fireplace does not have to be made to order. Many manufacturers offer ready-made models along with fireplaces. This is much more convenient, since the sizes of fireplaces vary greatly. And you don’t have to waste time on selection.
As for the fireplace itself, the more natural the fire in it looks, the cooler it will be. Don't chase brightness. Let it be better not so noticeable, but more realistic.
Symmetrical models
As we mentioned above, symmetry is one of the hallmarks of classics. Nowadays it is extremely difficult to find symmetrical wall models for the living room. Every furniture designer wants to bring his own original details, so the appearance of the models becomes more and more complex.
If you are a follower of the classics, it is better not to experiment with asymmetry. Attempts are rarely successful. Playfulness can be introduced with the help of interesting objects on the shelves and more free placement of upholstered furniture.
For those who like more unusual models, slides are suitable, in which the shelves differ slightly in width and height on different sides of the center. In general, multi-level shelves are a separate big trend for 2022, which we will discuss in more detail below.
Asymmetry
Designers emphasize the modernity of the model precisely with the help of asymmetry. If classic models could have been found in the same form even among your grandparents, then asymmetry is a fairly fresh trend.
To facilitate the design, shelves are often placed on only one side, and the other is decorated with a decorative panel. Thin wooden slats and marbled materials are especially relevant.
You can also make the design more airy if the bedside table is hung on the wall. You can provide lighting and in the evenings it will seem as if the slide is floating in the air. This move is almost as spectacular as a fireplace.
It is better to make blank walls either in light or very dark colors. Intermediate options may be too reminiscent of office furniture and look bulky. By the way, the trend is wood with a clearly defined pattern - veins, knots, irregularities.
If you place the TV inside the slide, you need to make sure that there is a visually free area around it. Shelves located too close, especially if there are a lot of them, will distract from viewing and create visual noise.
Materials for making furniture
Any furniture can be made from different materials, which have their own advantages and disadvantages. An important indicator is the cost of production. Types of materials for cabinet furniture:
- Natural wood. Environmentally friendly, durable, but the most expensive material. The type of wood affects the price. For example, beech furniture is not too expensive, but looks very impressive. Oak, hornbeam and other wood are not cheap. As a rule, furniture made of natural wood is made to order, because due to the high cost of the material it is rarely purchased.
- Chipboard. This material is often used for the manufacture of any cabinet furniture. Wood processing waste (sawdust) is glued together under high pressure with the addition of formaldehyde resins. It is these resins that can release toxic substances into the air, which is why it is so important to buy products that have a quality certificate.
- MDF with veneer finish. It is considered a higher quality material for furniture production. A cabinet covered with veneer looks like it is made of natural wood, but is inferior to it in terms of performance characteristics.
- Plastic or glass. Partitions and shelves are made from plastic. Glass is used to decorate facades and counters. The glass surface must be carefully looked after; dust, stains, scratches and chips are clearly visible on it.
- Fiberboard (plywood). Used only for making cabinet backs and drawer bottoms.
Multi-level shelves
The same trend that we mentioned above. Different heights and widths of the shelves help make the furniture more interesting; there will definitely be something for the eye to grab onto. This also sets the dynamics and the interior looks more alive.
Again, before ordering such furniture, clearly imagine what you will place on the shelves. They are usually quite narrow, so they are not very functional. That is, arranging your home library in this way is not the most brilliant idea.
Items must fit the dimensions of the shelves. A vase that takes up only a quarter of the cell will look bad. A bouquet of flowers can save the situation. Likewise, a part that occupies the entire volume of the shelf will most likely spoil the overall appearance. Write in advance where you can place which piece of furniture. You may have to make more than one rearrangement.
Slide + table
Often in small apartments, the living room also serves as an office. In this case, the table can be combined with a slide. This is a good idea only in one case - if you live alone. In all other situations, your loved ones will most likely greatly interfere with your work. Especially if everyone gets together to watch TV. In addition, from a psychological point of view, it is more comfortable to sit with your back to the wall, and not to the center of the room.
Slide with wardrobe
Another option, possible only in small apartments. If the area allows you to move the wardrobes to any other place, be sure to do so. They look completely out of place in the hall.
When there are no other options, try to make your cabinets as inconspicuous as possible. Choose furniture without handles, light colors; you can make the cabinet not the full height of the wall. As a last resort, you can make the remaining components of the slide lighter and smaller.
Modular
This already mentioned type of slides is the most practical type of such furniture. And all this because the modules (shelves, cabinets, etc.) can be swapped and get the most optimal and convenient option. If a modular wall-mounted wall with a wardrobe is installed in the living room, then after some time you can modify the configuration of the furniture and “refresh” the interior of the room.
Freestanding models
Just a few years ago, only free-standing models were available for sale. Now designers are striving to decorate the entire wall. But this does not mean that the slides have disappeared from sale.
How to recognize a stylish model? Geometry is trending. If it seems that the slide consists of figures that are found in Tetris, you can take it. Plus, those same models are usually painted in three colors: no more, no less.
What then indicates outdated models? Patterned glass and mirrors, large metal handles, contrasting combinations: beige and brown, light gray and wenge, a large number of small cupboards, closed and open shelves. Such slides will definitely not take root in your living room! All options below are obsolete. If they don’t seem terrible now, they will definitely start in 1-2 years.
By the way, many free-standing models have a back panel on which the TV is usually mounted. If the panel does not reach the ceiling, the solution can be called an anti-trend. The exception is when its tone-on-tone color matches the color of the wall.
If we talk about what is more relevant - glossy or matte surfaces - the answer will be unequivocal: matte is now in the top. Gloss is found in kitchen facades, but practically does not appear in living rooms. A glossy slide will fit well only into very restrained interiors in muted colors. Bright glossy surfaces will not come back into fashion anytime soon.
If you have a large wall, the slide should be commensurate with it. You should not choose models that are less than 50% of the total volume of the wall. Options that occupy almost the entire wall always look better. It feels like the furniture was made to order.
Types of decorative coatings and finishing of the facades of built-in wardrobes for the living room
Decorating will allow you to make the facade the most advantageous element of the room. The main types of finishes are:
- Mirror. In modern models, all mirrors are covered with shockproof film. This will save you from splinters and the risk of injury. In addition, such a mirror can withstand a heavier load. Visually enlarges the space due to reflection. Another decorative technique is partial tinting or applying a matte pattern;
- Perforated panels. They are of an overhead nature, so the openwork strips are attached to the base of the facade. Very beautiful, but accumulate dust inside the cavities of the pattern;
- Veneer. It consists of very thin sheets of wood or natural stone. They are used to cover the facades. This is also a very expensive way to decorate the interior. It is afraid of moisture and may warp because of it. Requires special care;
- Faux leather. It is made with a complete imitation of natural material and has a soft, pleasant-to-touch surface. The coating is durable, does not fade, and is easy to clean.
The leader in terms of decor is glass. Modern industry has learned to do a lot with it:
- Float glass Durable, smooth and shiny. Defects are not allowed;
- Optiwhite. This is the name given to clarified glass, in which the ability to transmit light is maximized. A wonderful option for films, enamel and color printing;
- Colored;
- Tinted;
- Lakomat. The entire surface is covered with a layer of matte varnish. The more it is, the lower the transparency;
- Matelux. Plain or tinted glass is etched with acids until partial or complete loss of transparency;
- Lakobel. The reverse side is painted in any desired color;
- Matelak. On one side the glass is painted, and on the other it is etched with acid until matte;
- Acrylic glass. Essentially, it is transparent glossy plastic that transmits light no worse than glass. Very durable, will last a long time. It comes with a mirror coating (plexiglass).
Walls with hidden TV
For those who watch TV extremely rarely and pay great attention to detail, a sliding door would be an excellent option. She will be able to close the TV at all times when it is not in use.
Also, when the TV is pushed forward, shelves are often placed around it. But so that the details do not distract from viewing, they are located behind closed doors, in the center of which there is a special hole for the TV. If you plan to use them frequently, carefully check the equipment's fastening.
Cabinets
The first question you need to ask yourself before choosing furniture for your living room is: what function should it perform? To be additional storage space, room decoration or just a traditional element? In the latter case, you can completely abandon the slide in favor of a cabinet.
Often there is simply nothing to put in a large pile and closed cabinets remain half empty. Or rubbish begins to accumulate in them, which is no better. If it seems to you that there is not enough space in one cabinet, it can be supplemented with a hanging cabinet or a narrow shelving unit.
When comparing solid slides and models consisting of several elements, the main factor is the size of the room. In a small living room (up to 15 square meters), a set of several pieces of furniture would look better. In a large space, a single slide covering the entire wall will look more advantageous.
Style solutions
When decorating a room and placing furniture, it is necessary to take into account how important the style and chosen direction of design in the interior are. The best option is to create a single space that will be diluted with accents while maintaining integrity.
There are several directions that you need to follow to create an atmosphere of comfort. Each of them is good in its own way, but stands out with its own characteristics.
If it has been decided to decorate a room in the Art Nouveau style, then you need to focus on ensuring that the interior is characterized by unity with nature. You can decorate your home with wooden patterns, floral elements or other details reminiscent of natural landscapes. The wall for the interior in the Art Nouveau style is chosen from natural wood. You can complement it with forged elements.
High-tech style involves the use of modern models. Metal and glass in cold colors are used to decorate the wall façade. This style is simple and functional, the furniture for it is made of MDF. These are predominantly corner modular designs with a large number of shelves.
Shelving
Nowadays, many people are abandoning the TV, replacing it with a computer screen. This transforms the approach to decorating a living room. Because in the first case, the TV is the main object of attention, and in the second, you need to choose a new accent.
The rack will cope with this role perfectly. To enhance the effect, you can add lighting and create a thematic selection of parts on the shelves. Don't get carried away with too many family photos, 1-3 is enough. You can dilute them with interesting photographs without people, posters or paintings.
Also, travel souvenirs often look too colorful. But you can try to select them in the same color scheme, style or from the same material. But the crystal or sets on display are a relic of the Soviet era.
Books always look great. The library-living room is the most cozy room in its essence. If you have a rich collection, it would be a good idea to add additional lighting to the shelves - highlighting such valuables is a pleasure.
The accent can be not only the contents of the shelf, but also the shelf itself. For example, due to an unusual color. Everyone is accustomed to the fact that shelving is usually made either in white or in the color of natural wood. Choose a color that is not the most common for furniture - and the original, memorable living room is almost ready!
The shape of the rack may also be unusual. An option for the most daring is to place a TV on an open shelf. By the way, a translucent shelving unit is a very good solution for zoning a kitchen-living room.
Tips for choosing colors
It’s easier to choose a color if you know its effect on the interior:
- Brown. Gives a feeling of fundamentality and heaviness. This is why it is so common in older Renaissance styles. Combines with any warm and soft tones. It contrasts with all cool shades.
- Black. It is believed to negatively affect the interior due to bad associations. In fact, it is an ideal tool for highlighting accents. For example, black furniture in a white interior looks impressive.
- Grey. A good choice for pastels and whites. As an accent it is worse than black, but at the same time its effect is softer. It is not so radical, so it is better suited for light designs.
- White. Necessary in small rooms, as it visually enlarges the room. White furniture will appear less heavy if placed in a tight space.
Wall constructors
A trend that is now actively coming into fashion is slides that seem to be made up of different parts of a construction set. If you like a similar model, you can safely take it: this style will not go out of fashion very soon.
To summarize, I would like to list the main parameters for choosing a wall or slide (as you prefer to call it) for the living room. For small rooms, light models consisting of several elements are suitable. In larger ones, full-wall cabinet furniture will be more relevant.
The trend is geometric, multi-level shelves, combinations of three colors, asymmetry, brevity, lack of handles, matte materials. At the same time, the classics are eternal! And most importantly, first of all, do not start from fashion, but from personal preferences. This makes it easier to find the perfect option. Find modern sliding wardrobes in the hallway using the link.
Direct
For this type of furniture, a straight slide is a classic. They are the ones most often given preference when choosing an option for arranging rooms in which you can achieve maximum harmony with the overall style of the room. A straight wall-slide is well suited for a large or medium-sized hall; it will also look great in spacious living rooms. It will take up empty space and decorate a large room without the effect of clutter.
