Sunken living rooms have been a popular design trend since the 70s and they are making a comeback in modern homes. This unique layout involves a sunken area in the floor that creates a cozy and intimate space for lounging and conversation. If you're looking to incorporate a sunken living room into your home, here are 10 ideas to inspire you. Sunken Living Room Ideas
Sunken Living Room Ideas
The conversation pit was a popular feature in 70s homes and is a key element of a sunken living room. This design typically involves a sunken area with built-in seating and a central fireplace or coffee table. To achieve this retro look, consider incorporating colorful shag rugs and patterned throw pillows into your design. 70s Conversation Pit Design
70s Conversation Pit Design
Embrace the nostalgia of the 70s with a retro sunken living room design. Incorporate bold and vibrant colors, like mustard yellow and burnt orange, into your decor. Add in some vintage furniture pieces, such as a velvet sofa or a lava lamp, to complete the look. Don't be afraid to go all out with this theme for a truly groovy space. Retro Sunken Living Room
Retro Sunken Living Room
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When it comes to furnishing your sunken living room, there are a few key pieces that will tie the whole look together. Low-slung and modular furniture is a staple of 70s design, so look for pieces with clean lines and geometric shapes. A mix of floor cushions and low sofas will create a cozy and relaxed atmosphere. 70s Conversation Pit Furniture
70s Conversation Pit Furniture
If you have an existing sunken living room in your home that needs a refresh, consider a remodel to modernize the space. Instead of using traditional materials like stone or carpet, opt for sleek and contemporary finishes like polished concrete or hardwood flooring. Add in modern furniture and decor to give the space a fresh and updated look. Sunken Living Room Remodel
Sunken Living Room Remodel
The decor in a sunken living room is key to creating a retro 70s vibe. Incorporate elements like shag rugs, macrame wall hangings, and lava lamps to add a touch of nostalgia to the space. Hang a disco ball from the ceiling for a fun and funky feature. Don't be afraid to mix and match patterns and textures to really embrace the 70s style. 70s Conversation Pit Decor
70s Conversation Pit Decor
Looking to completely transform your sunken living room? Consider a makeover that will give the space a modern and luxurious feel. Start by updating the flooring with marble or tile and adding in plush, comfortable seating. Incorporate statement lighting fixtures and add in pops of color with artwork and decor. This will elevate your sunken living room to a whole new level. Sunken Living Room Makeover
Sunken Living Room Makeover
There are endless possibilities when it comes to designing your 70s-inspired conversation pit. You can opt for a more traditional layout with low-slung sofas and a central fireplace, or get creative with built-in seating and unique lighting features. Don't be afraid to mix and match different design elements to create a truly unique and personalized space. 70s Conversation Pit Ideas
70s Conversation Pit Ideas
The sunken living room trend is making a comeback in a big way. It's a great way to add visual interest to a room and create a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Some current trends include incorporating natural elements like wood and stone into the design, as well as adding in tech features like built-in speakers and hidden storage. Keep an eye on current design trends for inspiration when creating your sunken living room. Sunken Living Room Trends
Sunken Living Room Trends
If you're still in need of some inspiration for your sunken living room, look to the past for ideas. Browse through vintage home decor magazines and websites for authentic 70s design inspiration. You can also watch movies and TV shows from the 70s for a glimpse into the era's interior design trends. Don't be afraid to put your own spin on these ideas to create a unique and modern sunken living room in your own home. 70s Conversation Pit Inspiration
70s Conversation Pit Inspiration
The Sunken Living Room: A Retro Design Feature Making a Comeback in Modern Homes
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The 70s Conversation Pit: A Blast from the Past
The 70s were a time of experimentation and bold design choices, and one of the most iconic features of that era was the sunken living room, also known as the conversation pit. This unique design feature involved a sunken area in the living room that was typically surrounded by built-in seating, creating a cozy and intimate space for conversation and relaxation. While this trend may have fallen out of favor in recent years, it is now making a comeback in modern homes, adding a touch of retro charm to contemporary designs.
The Advantages of a Sunken Living Room
Aside from its nostalgic appeal, the sunken living room also offers practical benefits. By being slightly lower than the rest of the living space, it creates a sense of separation and definition between different areas of the room. This can be especially useful in open-concept homes, where defining the different functional zones can be a challenge. Additionally, the built-in seating of a conversation pit provides extra seating options without taking up extra floor space, making it a great solution for smaller living rooms.
Modern Takes on the Sunken Living Room
While the 70s conversation pit was often characterized by shag carpets and bold color schemes, modern designs have given it a sleek and updated look. Instead of built-in seating, homeowners can opt for low-profile, modular seating that can be easily rearranged for different occasions. The sunken area can also be used to showcase statement pieces, such as a unique coffee table or a fireplace, adding a focal point to the room. With modern materials and finishes, the sunken living room can seamlessly blend in with any home design style.
Considerations for Incorporating a Sunken Living Room in Your Home
Before adding a sunken living room to your home, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, this design feature may not be suitable for homes with young children or elderly residents, as the change in floor levels may present a tripping hazard. Additionally, if you live in an area prone to flooding or have a high water table, proper waterproofing and drainage systems need to be in place to prevent water damage. It is also important to consult with a professional contractor to ensure that the structural integrity of your home is not compromised.
In conclusion, the sunken living room, or conversation pit, is a retro design feature that is making a comeback in modern homes. With its practical advantages and updated designs, it adds a unique and nostalgic touch to any living space. Consider incorporating this feature into your home and enjoy a blast from the past with a modern twist.
