Eero Saarinen, a renowned Finnish-American architect, is well known for his innovative and iconic designs that have stood the test of time. One of his most famous designs is the sunken living room, which became a popular trend in the mid-20th century. Saarinen's sunken living room design is characterized by its unique and modern approach to creating a conversation pit within the living space. Let's delve deeper into this iconic design and explore its history, features, and benefits. Eero Saarinen's Iconic Sunken Living Room Design
Eero Saarinen's Iconic Sunken Living Room Design
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Sunken living rooms, also known as step-down conversation pits, were first introduced in the 1920s but gained popularity in the 1950s and 1960s. This design trend was heavily influenced by Saarinen's work, and it quickly became a must-have feature in modern homes. The concept behind a sunken living room is to create a cozy and intimate seating area that is visually separated from the rest of the living space. This creates a distinct and stylish focal point in the room. Sunken Living Rooms: Step-Down Conversation Pits Ideas, Photos
Sunken Living Rooms: Step-Down Conversation Pits Ideas, Photos
If you're considering incorporating a sunken living room into your home, there are several ideas and designs to choose from. You can opt for a traditional sunken living room with a few steps leading down to a seating area, or you can go for a more modern approach with a deeper and larger pit. The pros of a sunken living room include its unique and eye-catching design, the opportunity to create a separate and cozy space, and the added depth and dimension it brings to the room. However, some cons to consider are the potential safety hazards, the cost of construction, and the challenge of furniture placement. Sunken Living Room Ideas: Photos, Pros and Cons
Sunken Living Room Ideas: Photos, Pros and Cons
To give you some inspiration, here are 10 amazing sunken living room designs that showcase the versatility and beauty of this design trend: Sunken Living Room Designs: 10 Amazing Ideas and Photos
Sunken Living Room Designs: 10 Amazing Ideas and Photos
If you're considering a sunken living room remodel, it can be helpful to see some before and after photos to get an idea of the transformation that can take place. Here are some examples of sunken living room remodels: Sunken Living Room Remodel: Before and After Photos
Sunken Living Room Remodel: Before and After Photos
If you're looking to give your existing sunken living room a makeover, here are some tips and inspiration to help you achieve a fresh and updated look: Sunken Living Room Makeover: Tips and Inspiration
Sunken Living Room Makeover: Tips and Inspiration
When it comes to furnishing a sunken living room, there are a few things to keep in mind: Sunken Living Room Furniture: Ideas and Placement
Sunken Living Room Furniture: Ideas and Placement
As mentioned earlier, lighting plays a crucial role in creating the right ambiance in a sunken living room. Here are some tips and ideas for lighting your sunken living room: Sunken Living Room Lighting: Tips and Ideas
Sunken Living Room Lighting: Tips and Ideas
The flooring in a sunken living room can make a significant impact on the overall design and feel of the space. Here are some flooring options and ideas to consider: Sunken Living Room Flooring: Options and Ideas
Sunken Living Room Flooring: Options and Ideas
Finally, let's talk about decor for your sunken living room. Here are some tips and inspiration to help you create a stylish and inviting space: Sunken Living Room Decor: Tips and Inspiration
Sunken Living Room Decor: Tips and Inspiration
The Versatility of Sunken Living Rooms in Modern House Design
The sunken living room, also known as a conversation pit, is a unique and versatile feature that has become increasingly popular in modern house design. This type of design involves creating a sunken floor area within a larger room, typically the living room, which creates a more intimate and cozy space for gatherings and conversations.
The Origin of Sunken Living Rooms
The concept of sunken living rooms originated in the 1920s, when renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright designed homes with conversation pits as a way to bring people closer together. However, it was not until the 1950s and 1960s that the trend really took off, with famous designers like Eero Saarinen incorporating sunken living rooms into their designs.
The Advantages of Sunken Living Rooms
One of the main advantages of sunken living rooms is the added depth and dimension they bring to a space. By lowering the floor, the room becomes more visually interesting and creates a natural division between different areas of the house. This is especially beneficial for open floor plans, where a sunken living room can help to delineate the living room from the dining or kitchen area.
In addition, sunken living rooms also provide a sense of intimacy and coziness, perfect for hosting small gatherings and conversations. The lowered floor also allows for better sightlines and encourages people to sit and face each other, promoting a more connected and social atmosphere.
How to Incorporate a Sunken Living Room into Your House Design
If you are considering adding a sunken living room to your house design, there are a few important factors to keep in mind. First, it is crucial to plan for proper lighting and ventilation in the sunken area, as it may not receive as much natural light and fresh air as the rest of the room. Additionally, safety measures such as handrails should be considered to prevent accidents, especially if young children or elderly individuals will be using the space.
Furthermore, it is important to choose the right type of flooring for a sunken living room. Opting for a durable and waterproof material, such as polished concrete or tiles, can help to prevent potential water damage from spills or leaks.
In Conclusion
The sunken living room is a versatile and unique feature that adds both style and functionality to modern house design. With its origins in the 1920s and a surge in popularity in the mid-20th century, it continues to be a sought-after design element for its ability to create a more intimate and visually interesting space. Whether you are looking to add a sunken living room to your own house design or simply appreciate its design appeal, there is no doubt that this feature will continue to make its mark in the world of interior design.
