Netflix & Nest: How to Design a Binge-Worthy Living Room

Let’s be honest—some of the best nights involve canceling plans, slipping into the world’s softest sweatpants, and diving headfirst into a Netflix marathon. Maybe it’s a crime doc that leaves you questioning every person you’ve ever met. Maybe it’s a so-bad-it’s-good reality show that you swear you’re watching ironically (but you’re fully invested). Either way, your living room needs to be optimized for peak coziness.

A truly binge-worthy setup isn’t just about having a TV and a couch. It’s about creating a space so comfortable, so inviting, that the outside world ceases to exist the moment you press “Play Next Episode.” So, how do we design a living room that practically begs you to stay in? Let’s break it down.

Step One: The Throne of Comfort (a.k.a. Your Sofa)

If your couch isn’t comfortable, nothing else matters. This is the command center of your binge-watching empire, and it should feel like a cloud. The bigger, the better—this is not the time for delicate little love seats that only accommodate one person sitting upright with perfect posture. No. You need a sofa that fully supports your questionable life choices, whether that’s stretching out dramatically, curling up with a blanket burrito, or lying completely horizontal for seven consecutive hours.

A deep, lounge-worthy sectional is always a win, but if space is tight, a plush loveseat with a matching ottoman can work just as well. And don’t forget the power of an accent chair! A cozy armchair or a stylish recliner (yes, they make chic ones now) can turn any corner into a prime binge-watching spot. The key is ensuring every seat in the room passes the Would I Want to Sit Here for a Full Movie Trilogy? test.

Step Two: Lighting That Sets the Mood

There’s a reason movie theaters don’t blast overhead fluorescents—harsh lighting ruins the vibe. Your goal is to create a soft, ambient glow that makes the room feel cozy, not like you’re being interrogated. That means saying goodbye to that single blinding overhead light and instead layering in lamps, sconces, and dimmable bulbs that let you control the mood.

Table lamps and floor lamps are your best friends here. Place them strategically around the room so that no matter where you sit, there’s a warm, inviting glow—not a direct beam of light making you question every skincare decision you’ve ever made. Warm, soft white bulbs (think 2700K-3000K) are the way to go. Anything too bright or cool-toned and suddenly your living room has the ambiance of a hospital waiting room. And let’s not forget candles—because honestly, is it even a cozy night in if you don’t have at least one candle flickering in the background? {No. The answer is no.}

Step Three: The Science of Cozy Textiles (Hint: More Is More)

If your living room isn’t drowning in soft, plush, touchable textures, you’re doing it wrong. Cozy textiles are what separate a “nice” living room from a living room that actively cuddles you back. Start with throw blankets—plural. A chunky knit throw for peak hygge vibes, a faux fur blanket for those extra chilly nights, and a lightweight linen or cotton one for when you just need a little extra comfort. Bonus points if you keep a basket of extras within reach, because nothing ruins a good binge-watch like having to get up and hunt for a blanket.

Pillows are another non-negotiable. If your couch has fewer than five, it’s time to reevaluate your life choices. Mix different textures like velvet, boucle, and linen to create a layered, ultra-inviting feel. And don’t stop at the couch—if you have a soft, high-pile rug underfoot, congratulations, you’ve just won the cozy jackpot. A plush wool or shag rug instantly makes the whole space feel warmer, and if you want to be extra about it (which I fully support), try layering a smaller, textured rug on top of a larger one for added depth.

Step Four: The Ultimate TV Setup

A great TV setup is about more than just having a screen—it’s about making sure it doesn’t completely take over the space while still delivering cinematic viewing pleasure. If you want a sleek, high-design look, a Samsung Frame TV is a dream. It disguises itself as art when not in use, which means your living room doesn’t have to scream I revolve around this giant black rectangle.

For everyone else, the key is to make your media console work with your space, not against it. A stylish, functional console with hidden storage keeps unsightly cords and remotes out of sight, because nothing kills the vibe like a tangled mess of wires. And while we’re at it, invest in a solid sound setup. A discreet soundbar or surround sound speakers mean no more rewinding because the dialogue was whisper-quiet while the action scenes were deafening.

Step Five: The Little Extras That Take It to the Next Level

Now that we’ve got the basics covered, it’s time for the finishing touches—the little things that transform your living room from “nice” to I never want to leave this spot, ever.

First up: snacks. If you’re going to be watching TV for hours, you need a snack station within arm’s reach. A woven basket filled with your favorites? A stylish tray with popcorn, chocolate, and a fancy drink? Yes, yes, and yes. Nothing feels more luxurious than having your movie treats thoughtfully arranged instead of just scattered across the coffee table like an afterthought.

Next: ambiance. A good binge-watching experience is multi-sensory, so don’t underestimate the power of music before and after your show. A soft lo-fi playlist playing in the background while you settle in? Chef’s kiss. A signature scent is another game-changer. Light a cozy candle, diffuse some essential oils, or bake cookies purely for the smell. (And, you know, for eating.)

Finally: make your space feel like you. A few carefully chosen coffee table books, a cozy basket for extra blankets, a fun accent piece that sparks joy—these are the details that make your binge-watching haven feel personal, not just Pinterest-perfect.

Now What Are You Waiting For?

At the end of the day (or let’s be real, an entire Saturday spent watching TV), your living room should be a space that wraps you up in comfort. It should be the place where you can completely relax, whether you’re deep in a murder mystery doc, rewatching your favorite rom-com for the hundredth time, or just letting the “Are you still watching?” message stare at you in judgment.

So, fluff those pillows, dim those lights, grab your coziest blanket, and embrace the art of the perfect binge-watch setup. Because if you’re going to spend hours in front of the TV, you might as well do it in style.

And if you need help making your living room feel as good as your favorite show, you know where to find me.