SHOP | Modern Cottage Living/Dining Room Design
A few weeks ago I called for submissions on Instagram for a new series I’m calling “Request a Room Design” and boy did y’all deliver! There were so many great spaces requested and I had a hard time picking one to work on. My hope for this series is that I get total free reign on the design of a space (fun!) and that YOU get the benefit of shopping every. single. piece. That’s something I can’t do with client designs (like the recent Tuckahoe Project!), so this is a fun way for me to share the signature look of Mix & Match Design Co. so you can bring it into your own homes.
I’m kicking things off with a Modern Cottage Living/Dining Room Design! The request was for an open concept space, which is something many of us have in our homes. It might be a kitchen that opens up into a dining room or family room, or a combined living and dining room idea. Though the trend is moving toward more walls, rather than fewer, having a single larger space that’s great for entertaining or accommodating family life well is always going to be “in.”
So let’s jump into the design and then I’ll share a few tips on how to create cohesion in an open concept space since that’s what often trips folks up when they’re trying to design one in their homes! You’ll also find links to everything pictured below the moodboard. :)
What I love about this design is that it’s made for family living. You’ll see durable materials, comfortable silhouettes, and classic coastal, earthy colors. It doesn’t take itself too seriously, but still feels tailored and elegant. It’s ready for entertaining (seat up to 10 at this extendable dining table!) and cozy family movie nights as well.
I love the color palette of this one. Bringing in blues, brass, browns, and blacks (all the “Bs,” ha!) gives it a very laid back and inviting look. It feels organic and natural, which is a style I love. It definitely doesn’t take itself too seriously!
I layered in a few different lights - floor and table lamps, plus the dining chandelier - to offer variety and give you the option of turning off the overhead lights in the living room when you want a softer vibe.
Finally, I included a versatile sideboard that offers great storage and could be used in multiple ways: as a media stand under a TV, as a true dining sideboard, or as an accent piece.
Have questions about this design? I’m all ears! Feel free to share them in the comments below! Now onto a few tips for making an open concept design cohesive…
Tips For Creating A Cohesive Open Concept Space
1. Start With a Shared Foundation
Pick a consistent base palette (walls + big furniture) and materials (wood tones, metals, textures). This instantly unifies the space and keeps it feeling intentional.
2. Define Zones With Rugs + Layout
Use rugs to anchor each area (living, dining, reading nook), but keep them visually related — similar tones, textures, or scale. Choose furniture that fits the flow so movement through the space feels effortless.
3. Repeat Elements Thoughtfully
Carry “visual breadcrumbs” across zones: a shared wood tone, a repeated metal finish, or accent color that appears in small and subtle ways throughout.
4. Coordinate Lighting
Mix ambient lighting with zone-specific fixtures, but keep finishes or shapes consistent. Coordinated lighting is one of the easiest ways to pull an open space together. I’ve got a few examples of lighting plans here that folks have loved referring to over the years!
5. Mind the Sightlines
Choose pieces that don’t block views or interrupt the openness. Low-profile seating, open shelving, or glass/acrylic elements help preserve that airy feel.
6. Layer Warmth and Texture
Open spaces can feel cold without thoughtful styling. Add softness through pillows, throws, plants, and natural textures — they make each zone feel inviting while tying the whole space together.
7. Keep Storage Smart + Stylish
Since everything is visible, rely on attractive closed storage solutions: consoles, buffets, woven baskets, and trays that keep clutter contained and the look cohesive.
