Unconventional Seating: Why Oversized Chairs, Bean Bags, and Unexpected Designs Are Taking Over Modern Homes


When it comes to home decor, nothing is off-limits anymore—especially seating. Gone are the days when a living room had to feature a matching sofa set and stiff accent chairs. Today’s homeowners are embracing comfort, creativity, and personality by choosing unconventional seating options. From oversized lounge chairs to modern bean bags, the movement is reshaping how we think about relaxation at home.

In this post, we’ll explore the history behind fun, oversized seating, why people are moving away from traditional options, and the hottest seating trends to watch right now.


A Brief History of Oversized Chairs & Bean Bags

Oversized Chairs: Comfort With a Past

Large chairs have been around longer than we think. Traditional armchairs from the 17th and 18th centuries—think grand wingback chairs and throne-like seats—were considered symbols of luxury and stature. But modern oversized chairs, often called chair-and-a-halfs or loungers, gained real popularity in the latter half of the 20th century when home life shifted from formal to casual.

By the 1980s and 90s, families wanted furniture designed for movie nights, reading nooks, and cozy relaxation rather than strict entertaining. That’s when we saw the rise of extra-wide chairs that could comfortably hold you, your blanket, and maybe even your pet.

Bean Bags: From Counterculture to Everyday Comfort

The bean bag chair as we know it was introduced in 1968 by Italian designers Gatti, Paolini, and Teodoro. Called the Sacco, it became a symbol of the youth movement—informal, rebellious, and effortlessly cool.

Its popularity surged through the 1970s as informal living gained traction, then again in the early 2000s when brands reinvented bean bags with memory foam fillings, washable covers, and oversized designs that appealed to both kids and adults. Today, bean bags have become a staple in game rooms, dorms, and family rooms thanks to their flexibility, portability, and pure comfort.


Why Are People Choosing Untraditional Seating?

1. Comfort Takes Priority

Minimalist seating has had its era, but people are craving pieces they can sink into. Oversized loungers, poufs, floor cushions, and structured bean bags offer that irresistibly relaxed vibe.

2. Homes Are More Multifunctional

Living rooms double as:

  • offices
  • playrooms
  • entertainment spaces
  • relaxation zones

Unconventional seating is easier to move around, reconfigure, and repurpose.

3. Personal Style > Tradition

Modern decor encourages individuality. Instead of sticking to matching sets, people want:

  • playful silhouettes
  • bold textures
  • unexpected shapes
  • a curated, collected look

Untraditional seating helps express personality instantly.

4. A More Laid-Back Lifestyle

Social gatherings are more intimate and casual. Instead of a formal arrangement, people enjoy lounge-style setups that welcome guests to relax.


New Trends in Seating for 2025

➤ Oversized Everything

Not just chairs—giant loungers, mega floor pillows, and XL reading chairs are becoming statement pieces on their own.

➤ Structured Bean Bags

The new generation of bean bags includes:

  • armrests
  • back support
  • boucle and sherpa fabrics
  • chic colors like oatmeal, forest green, and rust

They’re stylish enough for a living room—not just a kid’s room.

➤ Modular Floor Seating

Inspired by Japanese and Moroccan interiors, low seating is becoming more popular thanks to its flexibility. Think:

  • stackable cushions
  • modular floor sofas
  • foldable loungers

Great for small spaces and creative layouts.

➤ Hammock Chairs & Swing Seats

Indoor hammock chairs, egg chairs, and suspended swings add a playful element while softening the vertical space in a room.

➤ Sculptural Seating

Designers are turning chairs into art. Wave-shaped chairs, asymmetrical loungers, and inflatable furniture are making bold appearances.

➤ Eco-Friendly Foam & Fillings

Sustainable materials—like recycled foam, natural latex, and organic cotton—are influencing seating design more than ever.


Final Thoughts

Unconventional seating is no longer a niche category—it’s the future of home comfort. As our lives become more flexible, so does our furniture. Oversized chairs, bean bags, and creative loungers allow homeowners to design spaces that feel cozy, welcoming, and genuinely lived in.

Whether you’re decorating a gaming room, refreshing a reading nook, or simply trying to make your home cozier, thinking outside the “traditional sofa-plus-chairs” box can transform your space in an instant.

Dining Room Decor: Easy Ways to Upgrade Your Dining Space Without a Full Renovation


Your dining room is one of the most meaningful places in your home. It’s where you gather with family, host friends, celebrate milestones, and enjoy everyday meals that turn into memories. Because this room carries so much importance, giving it an upgrade—even a subtle one—can completely transform how your home feels.

The good news? You don’t need a full renovation to make your dining room feel elevated, stylish, and intentional. A few thoughtful changes can go a long way.


1. Start With a Statement Centerpiece

One of the simplest ways to refresh the room is by changing what sits at the center of your table. A beautiful centerpiece sets the tone instantly.

Try:

  • A tall ceramic or glass vase with branches
  • A long wooden tray with candles and greenery
  • A textured bowl filled with seasonal items like apples, pinecones, or faux moss balls

Your dining table is the star—let it shine with a focal point that feels curated.


2. Upgrade Your Dining Chairs

Your chairs are one of the biggest design elements in the room, so a change here creates major impact.

Some easy upgrades:

  • Switch to upholstered chairs for a cozy, elevated feel
  • Mix and match styles for a modern, collected look
  • Add statement chairs at the ends of the table
  • Use slipcovers to restyle what you already have

Even if your table stays the same, updated chairs can make the whole room feel new.


3. Refresh Your Lighting

Lighting is decor that changes the mood instantly. If you only update one thing, make it the lighting.

Consider:

  • A new chandelier that matches your style—modern, farmhouse, minimalist, or glam
  • Sconces or pendant lights for additional ambient lighting
  • A dimmer switch for flexible atmosphere

Warm, inviting lighting makes your dining room feel more intentional and welcoming.


4. Bring in an Area Rug

Yes, you can put a rug under your dining table!
A rug anchors the room and adds instant warmth.

Choose one that is:

  • Easy to clean
  • Low-pile
  • Large enough so chairs stay on the rug when pulled out

A rug also introduces new color, pattern, or texture without overwhelming the space.


5. Add a Wall Statement

Dining room walls offer a great opportunity for personality. Instead of leaving them blank, try:

  • Large-scale artwork
  • A set of framed prints or a gallery wall
  • A statement mirror
  • Floating shelves with decor

Art is one of the easiest ways to define your dining room’s style.


6. Incorporate Natural Decor

Nature-inspired accents breathe life into the space. Add:

  • A tall plant in the corner
  • Faux or preserved branches on the table
  • A woven basket filled with soft textures

Greenery softens the space and complements any design style.


7. Style Your Surfaces Thoughtfully

If you have a buffet, bar cart, or console table, give those surfaces attention too.

You might add:

  • A lamp for warm lighting
  • A decorative tray
  • A display of glasses or serving pieces
  • A stack of books with a vase or sculpture

These small touches make your dining room feel finished and refined.


8. Change Up Your Table Setting

You don’t need to set your table every day, but having a simple, styled setup adds polish.

Try:

  • Layered placemats
  • A runner instead of a tablecloth
  • Stylish napkins with rings
  • Two or three decorative place settings

A little styling goes a long way in making your dining room feel pulled together.


Final Thoughts

Upgrading your dining room isn’t about replacing everything—it’s about making intentional changes that enhance the atmosphere and reflect your style. With the right lighting, art, natural elements, and furniture details, you can create a space that feels warm, welcoming, and beautifully updated.

Why Invest in a Bathroom Floor Upgrade?


Bathrooms are high-moisture, high-traffic zones, so the flooring you choose really matters. The right material can:

  • Prevent water damage
  • Resist mold and mildew
  • Be comfortable underfoot
  • Elevate the style of a small space

But doing a full flooring makeover doesn’t have to mean hiring pros or blowing your budget.


Step 1: Pick the Right Material

Here are some of the best flooring options for a bathroom remodel — especially for DIYers — along with pros, cons, and when they make sense.

Luxury Vinyl (LVP / LVT)

One of the top picks for bathroom use. (GoFlooring)

  • Pros: 100% waterproof when you choose the right products. (byretreat.com)
  • Feel: Softer and warmer than tile. (Arko Flooring)
  • Installation: Click-lock or glue-down makes it very DIY-friendly. (DareKaou Floor)
  • Durability: With quality installation, can last a long time. (Some vinyl lasts 10–20 years.) (Better Homes & Gardens)

Peel-and-Stick Vinyl Tiles

  • Very DIY friendly; especially good for quick upgrades. (DexDecor)
  • Seamless, water-resistant designs. (byretreat.com)
  • Cost-effective and works over many subfloors.

Sheet Vinyl

  • Comes in large rolls, minimizing seams. (ClingTiles –)
  • Fewer joints = fewer places for water to seep in.
  • Comfortable underfoot and relatively inexpensive.

Ceramic or Porcelain Tile

  • Extremely water-resistant. (Coohom)
  • Very durable, but requires more skill for tile layout, grout, sealing, etc. (Coohom)
  • Grout lines must be sealed to prevent moisture intrusion. (America\’s Dream HomeWorks)

Other Options (if you’re feeling adventurous)


Step 2: Prep & Waterproofing — Don’t Skip This

Good prep is everything. Here’s a step-by-step for setting up your floor so it lasts.

  1. Remove Old Flooring (If Needed):
    If you’re ripping out old tile or vinyl, get down to a clean, stable subfloor.
  2. Level & Clean the Subfloor:
    Make sure it’s even — bumps or dips will cause problems later.
  3. Seal Seams & Joints:
    Use mesh tape at seams, especially where walls meet floors. (America\’s Dream HomeWorks)
  4. Apply a Liquid Waterproofing Membrane:
    Products like RedGard or other bathroom-rated membranes help protect your subfloor. (America\’s Dream HomeWorks)
  5. Edge Details:
    Once the flooring is in, caulk all the edges (floor-to-wall, around tub, etc.) with 100% silicone so water can’t sneak underneath. (America\’s Dream HomeWorks)
  6. Grout if Using Tile:
    After tile is down, seal the grout so it doesn’t absorb water. Re-seal annually. (America\’s Dream HomeWorks)

Step 3: Install the Flooring

How you install depends on your material:

  • Click-Lock LVP / LVT: These planks or tiles snap together. Great for DIY because you don’t need to mess with messy adhesives.
  • Glue-Down Vinyl: Needs a strong, even subfloor and adhesive, but gives a very solid, permanent feel.
  • Peel-and-Stick: Just peel off the backing and press into place! But make sure your floor is totally clean.
  • Sheet Vinyl: You’ll need to roll it out, trim to fit, and carefully secure it around edges.

As you finish, replace things like the toilet wax ring (if needed), and caulk around baseboards and plumbing fixtures. (Coohom)


Step 4: Care & Maintenance

  • Wipe up standing water quickly — don’t let puddles sit. (Coohom)
  • Use mild, non-abrasive cleaners so you don’t damage the flooring. (Coohom)
  • Check and re-caulk or re-seal grout lines as needed (especially in tile) to prevent water damage. (America\’s Dream HomeWorks)

Step 5: Stylish Product Picks (DIY-Friendly)

Here are some flooring products you can buy now, with different styles and budgets:

Lifeproof Marble LVP

Durable stone look

$58.13

Lifeproof Navarra Maple Plank

Classic wood plank

$66.12

Pergo Rome Marble LVT

Stone look luxury

$71.80

Shaw Rocklyn Tile Click‑Lock

Textured stone tile

$66.33

Mystic Marble Peel-and-Stick

Easy stick‑down marble

$1.38

Seashore Peel-and-Stick Tile

Budget tile stick

$29.00

Moroccan Tile Sheet Vinyl

Patterned vintage

$96.23

White Wood‑Effect Sheet Vinyl

Bright wood look

$137.63

Here are a few highlights and why you might pick them:


Design Tips for Your New Bathroom Floor

  • Go Large to Make the Space Feel Bigger: Bigger planks or large-format tiles help visually stretch a small bathroom.
  • Stick to a Cohesive Palette: If your walls or vanity are patterned or bold, pick a neutral, complementary floor.
  • Add Rugs or Mats: Use non-slip bath mats where needed — especially near tubs.
  • Mix Textures: Combine glossy tile-look flooring with matte wall finishes or painted walls for contrast.

Final Thoughts

Upgrading your bathroom floor yourself can be one of the most cost-effective and transformative DIY projects. With the right waterproof materials, solid prep, and a few smart design choices, you can get a floor that looks professional — without paying for pro labor.

If you’re ready to start: measure your bathroom, pick a water-safe product, and plan for at least one full weekend (or more) depending on the complexity. And don’t skip the waterproofing steps — they’ll pay off in longevity.


How to Create a Stylish, Storage-Centered Closet That Feels Like a Functional Room in Your Home


A closet isn’t just a place to stash clothes—it’s one of the most underrated spaces in your home. When it’s thoughtfully designed, it becomes a stylish extension of your personality and a highly functional daily-use zone. Whether you’re working with a small reach-in closet or a dreamy walk-in, your closet can absolutely feel like a curated, intentional part of your home.

Here’s how to create a storage-centered, stylish closet that feels like a space you actually want to spend time in.


1. Start With a Clear Vision (and a Clean Slate)

Before you add bins, racks, or shelves, take everything out. Every. Single. Thing.
A blank canvas makes it easier to:

  • See the true size of your space
  • Identify your storage needs
  • Visualize where everything should go

Ask yourself:
Do you want your closet to feel boutique-like? Calm and minimalist? Organized and labeled? Color-coordinated and creative?
Your style will guide your layout and decor choices.


2. Invest in Smart Storage That Works Hard for You

A closet should serve you—not the other way around. Prioritize storage solutions that help you maximize your space.

Shelf Dividers & Stackers

Perfect for sweaters, jeans, and purses so items don’t topple into each other.

Double Hanging Rods

Instantly double your hanging capacity without changing the footprint.

Drawer Units or Modular Cubes

Store smaller items like underwear, socks, accessories, and seasonal pieces.

Pull-Out Baskets

Great for workout clothes, pajamas, or items that don’t need to be folded perfectly.

Over-the-Door Racks

Ideal for shoes, scarves, bags, or even jewelry—using vertical space is everything.


3. Make It Stylish With Small Decor Touches

Style isn’t just for your living room—it belongs in your closet too.

Matching Hangers

This one simple change elevates your closet instantly. Wood, velvet, or acrylic—choose one and stick to it.

A Small Rug or Runner

Softens the room and adds warmth (bonus: protects your floor).

Accent Lighting

Strip lights, motion-sensor LEDs, or a small chandelier make the space feel intentional and luxurious.

Decorative Bins or Baskets

Choose colors and textures that match your home style—boho, minimalist, modern farmhouse, glam, etc.

Framed Art or a Small Mirror

Yes… art in a closet. It makes the space personal and inviting.


4. Curate Your Items Like a Boutique

If you want your closet to feel stylish, don’t overlook how you display your things.

  • Group clothing by type, then by color
  • Fold sweaters uniformly
  • Display handbags standing upright
  • Use hooks to hang hats or accessories
  • Put most-used items at eye level
  • Store seasonal clothing up high or in bins

This approach doesn’t just look great—it also saves time every morning.


5. Add a Functional Touch: Seating, Mirrors, or a Prep Area

To elevate your closet from a storage space to a functional room:

Add a small bench, chair, or ottoman

Perfect for putting on shoes or planning outfits.

Install a full-length mirror

Helps your closet double as a dressing area.

Create a mini styling station

Include a tray or shelf for:

  • Perfume
  • Jewelry
  • Everyday accessories
  • A lint roller
  • A steamer or handheld iron

This transforms your closet into a true getting-ready zone.


6. Keep It Clean and Fresh

A stylish space only feels stylish if it’s maintained.

  • Do a quick tidy weekly
  • Rotate seasonal clothes
  • Use a closet-safe diffuser or cedar balls for freshness
  • Store less-used items up high or in bins

A well-tended closet stays beautiful—and functional—year-round.


Final Thoughts

Your closet doesn’t have to be a forgotten corner of your home. With smart storage, intentional design touches, and a bit of personalization, it can become a space that’s both beautiful and efficient. Treat it like a mini room, and it will reward you with daily ease, clarity, and a hint of luxury.

Are Entertainment Centers Still a Thing? A Modern Guide to TV Stands, Media Cabinets & Home Entertainment Storage


When you think of entertainment centers, you might picture those giant, bulky wall units from the early 2000s — heavy wood, lots of shelving, and a space carved out for your old box TV. But just like everything in home decor, entertainment furniture has evolved. Today’s homeowners want pieces that feel lighter, smarter, and more flexible… yet still stylish enough to anchor the focal point of the living room.

So, are entertainment centers still a thing in 2025?
Absolutely — but with a modern twist.

In this post, we’ll break down the evolving role of entertainment centers, how TV stands have changed, what people are buying now, and whether these pieces are still a go-to for stylish and functional living rooms.


Are Entertainment Centers Still In Style Today?

The short answer is yes, but they are not the oversized units we remember from decades ago. Instead, today’s entertainment centers fall into three major categories: slim consoles, floating units, and custom media walls.

What Changed?

  1. TVs got slimmer — and so did the furniture.
    With flat screens becoming the norm, the need for bulky cabinets disappeared. Modern entertainment units are designed to enhance, not overpower, your room.
  2. Minimalist design trends shifted preferences.
    Today’s homeowners crave clean lines, open shelving, and furniture that blends into the home rather than steals the spotlight.
  3. Homes are smaller, and people want multifunctional furniture.
    Storage is everything. A modern entertainment unit often doubles as a decorative console, display shelf, or even a sideboard.
  4. Tech needs changed.
    Instead of space for DVDs and giant cable boxes, people now need smart cable management, adjustable shelves for gaming consoles, and hidden storage for remotes.

Are Entertainment Centers Still a Go-To for Living Rooms?

For many households, yes — especially if you want your living room to feel organized and elevated.

Why People Still Choose Entertainment Centers

  • They keep gaming consoles, remotes, soundbars, and accessories neatly stored in one place.
  • They make your TV area look intentional and well-designed.
  • They offer space for decor: candles, family photos, baskets, and greenery.
  • They anchor the room, helping create a visually balanced layout.

Even if wall-mounted TVs are becoming more popular, homeowners still want a stylish piece underneath for storage and decor. The TV stand acts as the foundation of the entertainment area.

Why Some People Skip Them

  • For ultra-minimalists, a mounted TV with a single floating shelf is enough.
  • Open-concept spaces sometimes call for lighter furniture.
  • Some prefer to use a dresser or credenza as a multifunctional alternative.

In other words, the entertainment center isn’t disappearing — it’s simply adapting to modern lifestyles.


Modern Types of Entertainment Furniture (Most Popular in 2025)

Whether you prefer a clean aesthetic or a more decorative setup, today’s market offers a wide range of stylish and practical options. Here are the most popular styles homeowners are buying now:


1. TV Stands / Media Consoles

The most common and versatile option. These are usually low, long pieces with a mix of open shelving and closed storage. They’re perfect for:

  • Apartments & small living rooms
  • People who want simple, no-fuss decor
  • Those who prefer flexible furniture they can move around

Design trends: mid-century modern, curved edges, fluted wood, rattan doors, walnut finishes.


2. Floating TV Units

These wall-mounted units offer a clean, modern look and free up floor space. Popular for:

  • Minimalist spaces
  • Small rooms
  • Homes with kids or pets (goodbye, fingerprints on the TV!)

They also create a sleek built-in look without the cost of actual custom cabinetry.


3. Full Entertainment Centers / Media Walls

These haven’t disappeared — they just look different now. Today’s versions are:

  • More modular
  • Less bulky
  • Often combined with LED lighting or adjustable shelves
  • Designed to hide ALL the cords and clutter

They serve as a decorative feature wall and are a favorite in large living rooms.


4. Sideboards and Credenzas Used as TV Stands

A growing trend! Homeowners love repurposing dining furniture as media storage because:

  • Sideboards often have deeper storage
  • They add a decorative, curated look
  • They work for both modern and vintage-inspired homes

These pieces give your home character and don’t feel like traditional TV furniture.


What Are the Most Popular Home Entertainment Storage Items?

Here are the top choices trending right now:

✔ Mid-Century Modern TV Console

Warm wood, slender legs, and clean lines — these remain timeless and work with almost any decor style.

✔ Rattan or Cane-Door Media Units

Perfect for boho, coastal, or organic modern homes. They add beautiful texture.

✔ Modern Black or Walnut Floating Units

These pair well with mounted TVs for a sleek, gallery-style look.

✔ Fluted Wood Media Cabinets

One of the hottest trends in 2024–2025. Fluted patterns create texture without visual clutter.

✔ Industrial Metal + Wood Consoles

Great for lofts, modern homes, or anyone craving a bold, urban feel.

✔ Custom Built-In Units

The ultimate luxury option — perfect for maximizing storage while blending seamlessly into the home.


Featured Options People Love Right Now

Here’s a quick curated list of trendy entertainment cabinet styles people are buying in 2025:

  • Modern Fluted TV Stand
    A bestseller thanks to its rich texture and clean silhouette.
  • IKEA SKRUVBY TV Unit
    Affordable, practical, and modern — a go-to for renters.
  • Rattan TV Stand for 65” TVs (Etsy)
    Handcrafted, stylish, and adds warmth to any room.
  • Walnut Arc TV Stand
    A curved, soft-edge piece that fits beautifully into contemporary homes.
  • Large Entertainment Consoles (Havertys)
    Ideal for bigger living rooms needing lots of storage.

Should You Buy an Entertainment Center for Your Home?

Ask yourself these questions:

Do you need extra storage?

If you have gaming consoles, speakers, remotes, or movies — yes.

Do you want your TV area to feel styled and complete?

A media unit adds polish and balance to the room.

Do you prefer a clean, minimal look?

Then a floating unit or slim console is perfect.

Do you have a large living room with empty wall space?

A full entertainment center or built-in can make a stunning statement.


Final Thoughts: Entertainment Centers Are Here to Stay — Just Smarter and More Stylish

Entertainment centers didn’t fade away — they evolved. Today’s options offer:

  • Sleeker silhouettes
  • Smarter storage
  • Better design flexibility
  • Options for every home size and style

Whether you love a bold media wall or prefer a simple, modern console, your entertainment furniture should complement your décor while keeping your living space functional and organized.