Hello, I’m Amanda Green, the lead designer at Motifspace, and few aesthetics capture the essence of timeless American style quite like a Ralph Lauren living room. It’s more than just a design; it’s an experience.
The look is a masterful blend of British countryside elegance, refined heritage, and rustic American comfort. It’s a design that feels both personal and impeccably curated, inviting you to relax in a space of quiet luxury.
While a full interior design consultation with a New York firm can cost upwards of $150 per hour, you can achieve this sophisticated look on your own by focusing on key elements.
Here are 17 stylish ways to transform your living room into a refined, Ralph Lauren-inspired retreat.
1. The Classic Leather Armchair
A leather armchair is a non-negotiable for this style. Opt for a rich, well-worn leather in dark brown, camel, or black. It adds a masculine, vintage feel and will only get better with age. A high-quality leather armchair costs between $1,500 and $5,000. For more inspiration, check out our guide on dark-brown-couch-living-room-ideas.
2. Plaid and Tartan Textiles
Nothing says Ralph Lauren like plaid. Incorporate this pattern with throw blankets, pillows, or even upholstery. Tartan adds a cozy, heritage feel that immediately warms up a space. High-end plaid or tartan throw blankets can cost between $50 and $200.
3. A Chesterfield Sofa
This iconic sofa design with its deep tufting and scrolled arms is a perfect match for the sophisticated Ralph Lauren look. A Chesterfield sofa from a reputable retailer can cost between $2,000 and $10,000, and will last for years.
4. A Library Wall or Bookshelves
Create the feeling of a well-traveled scholar with a full library wall or a large bookcase filled with vintage books. A living room with a library feels both academic and deeply personal. See our ideas for a cozy home-library-ideas.
5. Rich, Dark Wood Furniture
Choose furniture with a heavy, classic feel. A dark wood coffee table or a large cabinet in walnut or mahogany can anchor the room. This furniture adds a sense of tradition and formality. For more ideas on finding the right pieces, read our guide on home-furniture-ideas.
6. A Grand Fireplace
A fireplace is the heart of a Ralph Lauren living room. Whether it’s a traditional wood-burning fireplace with a detailed mantel or a sleek, electric fireplace, it serves as a natural focal point. You can find more information on this in our articles on fireplace-ideas-at-your-living-place and wood-burning-stove-living-room.
7. Equestrian Decor
This is a signature element. Incorporate equestrian decor with framed horse prints, riding boots displayed by the fireplace, or leather bridles on the wall. These pieces evoke a sense of the English countryside and sporting heritage.
8. Vintage Maps and Globes
A large framed vintage map or a classic wooden globe adds a touch of worldly adventure. These pieces are often affordable and can be found at antique shops. A reproduction vintage map costs between $20 and $100.
9. A Wool or Felt Throw Blanket
A chunky wool or felt throw blanket draped over a sofa adds warmth and texture. These are not only beautiful but also functional, making the room feel more inviting.
10. Leather and Wood Coffee Table
A simple, robust wood coffee table topped with leather-bound books and vintage trinkets perfectly encapsulates the style. A high-quality wood coffee table can cost between $500 and $2,000.
11. Layered Lighting
Use a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a warm and inviting glow. A classic chandelier, a few table lamps with pleated shades, and a floor lamp can all be used to design a space that is both functional and cozy.
12. Vintage Trunks or Luggage
An old vintage trunk can be used as a coffee table or a side table. It adds a sense of history and adventure to the space. You can often find them for as low as $100 to $400 at antique stores.
13. Deep Color Palettes
Use rich, saturated colors like burgundy, hunter green, navy blue, and camel. These colors create a moody, luxurious feel that is essential to the Ralph Lauren aesthetic. For more inspiration on color palettes, read our guide on home-interior-decor-ideas.
14. Brass or Gold Accents
Add brass or gold accents with picture frames, lighting fixtures, or small sculptures. These metallic touches add a layer of formality and elegance to the space.
15. The Art Gallery Wall
Create a curated gallery wall with framed family photos, vintage prints, and landscapes. This adds a personal touch and makes the living room feel more like a collected home. See our article on wall-decor-above-couch-ideas for more inspiration.
16. A Wool or Jute Rug
A wool or jute rug can anchor the room and add a layer of texture and warmth. Choose a rug with a classic pattern like a Persian rug or a simple, neutral jute rug for a more casual look.
17. The Ralph Lauren-Inspired Coffee Bar
A coffee bar is an essential decor piece for this design. Style it with sleek glass mugs, a leather-bound coffee table book, and a collection of gourmet coffee beans. Add a vintage espresso machine or French press for charm. A stylish console or vintage cabinet can be found for as little as $100 to $300.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signature Ralph Lauren colors?
The signature Ralph Lauren color palette is rich and sophisticated. It includes deep navy, hunter green, burgundy, creamy whites, and various shades of brown and camel.
Can I achieve the Ralph Lauren look on a budget?
Yes, you can. The key is to focus on the feel of the design rather than buying authentic Ralph Lauren pieces. You can find high-quality vintage furniture, reclaimed wood pieces, and classic decor at thrift stores and antique shops. For more ideas on how to achieve a high-end look on a budget, read our guide on farmhouse-living-room-ideas.
Is Ralph Lauren home decor timeless?
Yes. The Ralph Lauren home decor style is timeless because it is not tied to a single trend. It is based on a heritage of classic design and a respect for quality craftsmanship, which will never go out of style.
Conclusion
A Ralph Lauren living room is a space of quiet luxury, tradition, and timeless style. By incorporating these 17 ideas—from the classic leather armchair to the rich wood furniture—you can create a living room that is not only beautiful but also a true reflection of your refined taste. It’s a design that invites you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the simple pleasures of a beautifully curated space.
