Designing a Stylish & Functional Water-View Living Room in Tacoma, WA
When designing a home’s main living space, it’s all about finding the perfect balance between beauty and functionality. That was exactly the case for this stunning Tacoma, WA waterfront home, where my clients needed a versatile and stylish living room that could host large gatherings while still feeling cozy for everyday life.
Understanding the Client’s Vision
From the very start, our client had a clear vision for the space:
A main gathering hub for family and guests.
A TV-friendly setup, possibly mounted above the fireplace.
A viewing space to appreciate the stunning water and passing ships.
A seating-heavy layout—no dining tables, just room for as many people as possible.
A flexible space that could work for casual TV watching, grandkid playtime, and overflow seating for gatherings.
A mid-century modern, coastal-inspired aesthetic with cool neutrals, bold contrasts, and brass accents.
With a $15K–$20K budget, we set out to create a space that seamlessly blended style and comfort while honoring the home’s beautiful MCM architecture and breathtaking waterfront views.
The starting point
The clients gave me this space as a blank canvas - ready for whatever we could dream up!
Crafting the Layout: Space Planning for a Social Home
One of the biggest challenges was ensuring the room felt spacious yet intimate, allowing for ample seating without overwhelming the open feel. To achieve this, I:
Opted for multiple seating zones with a mix of plush sofas, cozy armchairs, and versatile accent seating.
Used a circular flow to promote conversation while keeping sightlines open to the water.
Incorporated dual-purpose furnishings, like a sculptural coffee table that adds both function and a natural, organic feel to the space.
Selected soft, durable fabrics that could withstand daily use—perfect for grandkids and family movie nights.
The Design Details: Mid-Century Coastal with a Luxe Touch
The client’s love of cool neutrals and bold contrasts led us to a refined palette of black, white, green, and brass accents. To keep the space visually engaging while staying true to its mid-century coastal inspiration, we brought in:
Rich jewel-toned seating, adding warmth and vibrancy without leaning into pastels.
Natural wood textures, like the coffee table and console, to balance the clean lines with organic warmth.
Layered textiles, including a soft neutral area rug to define the seating area and add coziness.
Statement lighting, like the woven pendant, to bring in natural texture and soften the space.
Minimalist decor, allowing the stunning views to take center stage while adding curated touches of personality.
The End Result: A Space That Feels Like Home
This transformed living room is now a true heart of the home—perfect for hosting gatherings, enjoying family movie nights, or simply soaking in the water views. With a thoughtful layout, rich textures, and timeless mid-century influences, we created a space that isn’t just functional but an absolute dream to spend time in.
Would you design your living room around a view or prioritize function first? Let us know in the comments!
