I still remember the day we got the keys to our first home. I stood in the middle of an empty living room, grinning like a kid in a candy store—and also silently panicking because I had zero idea how to make it feel like us. That’s when I went down the rabbit hole of Joanna Gaines-style inspiration. And let me tell you… it changed everything.
I didn’t grow up knowing how to style a home. My idea of “decor” used to be string lights and hand-me-down couches. But watching Fixer Upper, something clicked. Joanna’s spaces feel lived-in yet elegant, rustic yet clean. I wanted that balance. I needed that balance.
So here are 30 Joanna Gaines-inspired living room ideas I actually used—plus the cozy pieces that helped bring them to life. If you’re a new homeowner like me, get ready to fall in love with your space all over again
1–5: Start With a Clean Slate (But Keep the Charm)
I learned quickly that Joanna doesn’t overdecorate. Her rooms breathe. The first thing I did? Cleared out the clutter.
1. Embrace light, neutral walls – I painted our living room in a warm greige (Sherwin Williams “Agreeable Gray”) and it instantly softened the space.
2. Expose natural textures – We sanded and stained our old wood floors instead of replacing them. Rustic meets refined.
3. Go for an oversized neutral area rug – I grabbed this vintage-inspired rug with soft patterns. It grounds the room without stealing the show.
4. Use linen curtains – Joanna loves flowy, natural fabrics. I found these affordable sheer panels that let in light and look way more expensive than they are.
5. Layer whites and creams – Our ivory slipcovered sofa is now my favorite thing ever. Cozy and classic.
6–10: Furniture That Feels Collected, Not Matched
Joanna never does “matchy-matchy”—and now I don’t either. Instead of buying a whole living room set, I curated pieces that feel intentional.
6. A mix of wood tones – I paired a dark walnut coffee table with a reclaimed oak console. Totally Joanna.
7. Slipcovered chairs – We added these budget-friendly slipcovered armchairs for an easy farmhouse feel.
8. Vintage-inspired coffee table – I went with one that had spindle legs and storage underneath. Style and function.
9. Industrial side tables – A nod to Joanna’s love for mixing rustic and metal.
10. Accent bench under the window – Adds seating and charm. This one with a linen cushion made the whole room feel cozy.
11–15: Accessorize with Heart (Not Just Stuff)
Joanna always says a home should tell your story. So I started layering in decor that meant something.
11. Framed family photos in black + white – Instant timelessness.
12. Handmade pottery – I picked up a few rustic vases that look like they came from Magnolia Market.
13. Woven baskets – For throws, books, even dog toys. I got a set of three nesting baskets that look high-end but were under $40.
14. A big cozy throw blanket – I drape this chunky knit throw over the arm of the couch. It invites you in.
15. Candles in amber jars – A small detail, but so Joanna.
16–20: Greenery Is Not Optional
This was a game-changer. Joanna always adds life to a room—literally. Plants are her secret sauce.
16. Faux fiddle leaf fig tree – Low maintenance, huge impact. This one fooled my mom (and she’s a plant expert).
17. Olive branches in a ceramic vase – The elegance of greenery without the upkeep.
18. Hanging plants in macrame – Brings a little boho to the mix.
19. Herb planters on the windowsill – Homey, fresh, and they smell amazing.
20. Woven plant stands – Adds height and texture.
21–25: Lighting That Feels Warm and Inviting
Lighting is everything. You could have the coziest furniture in the world, but if your bulbs scream “hospital waiting room,” you’re sunk.
21. Wrought iron chandelier – We swapped our boring ceiling light for this rustic fixture. Instantly elevated the space.
22. Ceramic table lamps – Joanna loves grounding a room with earthy tones. These ones add beautiful ambient light.
23. Wall sconces for reading – We mounted dimmable sconces behind the couch. Game changer.
24. Candlestick floor lamp – A classic Magnolia look.
25. Soft white bulbs (no blue light!) – Trust me, it matters.
26–30: Final Touches That Made It Ours
These last ideas made the biggest difference for me because they added soul to our living room. They’re the pieces people always compliment when they visit.
26. A meaningful piece of wall art – I printed a map of the town where we met and framed it. Super sentimental.
27. Open shelving with curated items – Books, framed art, a few pottery mugs, a tiny succulent… chef’s kiss.
28. A Magnolia-style clock – Yes, it’s a little cliché. But I couldn’t resist this one with Roman numerals and black iron.
29. Layered rugs – I put a jute rug under our patterned one for texture and dimension. Like this combo.
30. A signature scent – I now associate “home” with the smell of this candle—it’s woodsy, warm, and totally Joanna.
What I Learned Along the Way
Designing our living room didn’t happen overnight. It was a mix of Pinterest boards, thrift store hunts, and waiting for the right sales. But what Joanna Gaines taught me (through my screen) was this:
A home isn’t about perfection—it’s about intention.
Every throw pillow, every basket, every plant now has a purpose. It all adds up to a space that feels like us—warm, welcoming, and quietly beautiful.
Ready to Style Your Own Joanna-Inspired Living Room?
If you’re standing in your own blank living room right now, wondering where to begin—just start small. Pick one idea that resonates and run with it. Then add on. Layer by layer. Piece by piece.
If you want to recreate any of the looks I mentioned, I’ve linked all my favorite finds throughout this post. Whether you’re all-in on farmhouse or just want to add a little Magnolia magic, there’s something here for every budget.
🛋️ Happy styling, friend. Your dream living room is closer than you think.
🛋️ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Joanna Gaines’s signature living room style?
Joanna Gaines is known for her warm, timeless farmhouse style. Think neutral color palettes, layered textures, vintage accents, and a cozy, lived-in feel. Her spaces often include shiplap, wood tones, metal accents, and plenty of greenery.
How can I decorate like Joanna Gaines on a budget?
Start with simple, high-impact pieces: a neutral area rug, cozy throw pillows, linen curtains, and baskets for texture. Thrift stores and big-box retailers (like Target or Amazon) often have farmhouse-style decor at affordable prices. You don’t have to buy everything at once—layer slowly!
What are some must-have Joanna Gaines-inspired items for the living room?
A few staples include:
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A neutral or vintage-inspired area rug
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Slipcovered furniture or a cozy sectional
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Rustic wood coffee table
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Faux or real greenery
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Textured throw blankets and pillows
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Farmhouse-style lighting (like wrought iron chandeliers or ceramic table lamps)
Can I mix Joanna Gaines style with modern or boho decor?
Absolutely! Joanna’s look is all about balance. Mix in modern silhouettes or boho accents like macramé, black metal frames, or earthy tones to give your space personality. Just keep your color palette soft and cohesive.
