TV Living Rooms Reimagined: Giving The “Friends” Loft A Modern New Look

Our favorite TV shows have certainly provided us plenty of loveable characters (and unforgettable episodes). And they’ve also introduced us to some truly memorable TV interiors too. But have you ever wondered what those spaces might look like in 2021? Well, you’re about to find out – because we’re taking some of the most beloved small screen living rooms and giving them a whole new look.

To kick things off, we’re starting with a space that viewers got quite familiar with over the course of 236 episodes. As the backdrop to lots of laughs (and maybe a few tears), it was always there for you – and some of your favorite ‘Friends’ too. And now you’re going to see it like you never have before. So keep scrolling for our re-design of Monica’s living room from ‘Friends’  – including all the shoppable products!

And don’t miss our quiz: How Your Favorite TV Living Room Can Determine Your Design Style

The Original Living Room

When ‘Friends’ first premiered 27 years ago (yep, that long ago), the interior design world – and trends – looked a lot different. And Monica’s apartment certainly epitomized many of the design styles the 90s were known for. The living room combined art deco, traditional and shabby chic into one very eclectic backdrop. The cream-colored furniture was extra plush, the lighting and accessories looked straight from a flea market, and the walls – well, who could forget that particular shade of purple. And although the style of this space hasn’t stood the test of time, it will always hold a special spot in the hearts of millions of viewers.

The Redesign

So where would Rachael, Monica, Phoebe, Ross, Chandler, and Joey be hanging out in 2021? We’ve got a few ideas! When it came to re-designing this much-loved room, we focused on keeping similar lines and shapes for furnishings while pairing down the color palette and materials. So instead of going with those bright purple walls, we opted for a much more muted grey color with purple undertones – along with a few purple accents paired with shades of cream, black and pale pink. We tried to retain that trademark mix of styles Monica loved by mingling modern with traditional: A  classic armchair opposite a modern glass side table, or the curvy deco chair and ottoman with a clean-lined coffee table. A wood and cane console captures the spirit of the original piece while adding a modern feel (and more function). For lighting, we took a cue from the fun tapered shade and curvy metal designs in the original room, bringing in a sculptural table lamp and simplified black metal sconce. Art and accessories also got a big update through patterned and boho pom-pom pillows, a pairing of figural drawings, and a graphic purple print (another nod to the original wall color). And since you def need a spot for all the friends to gather, the comfy cream-colored sofa is still here, but in a more tailored design that’s totally timeless.

1. Line Drawing Faces Framed Wall Art | 2. Alina Table Lamp | 3. Glass Side Table | 4. Clique Black Pillow | 5. Obsidian Textured Pillow | 6. Brynn Sofa | 7. Sherpa Lux Throw Pillow | 8. Lavender Velvet Pillow | 9. Black Metal 2 Light Sconce | 10. Faux Audrey Ficus Tree | 11. Caned Door TV Stand | 12. Pastel Lilac Printable Art | 13. Distressed Ceramic Vase | 14. Lilac Hush Paint | 15. Remy Barrel Chair | 16. Chandler Velvet Round Ottoman | 17. Moreno Area Rug | 18. Artesia Natural Rattan Bowl | 19. Reed Coffee Table | 20. Hawthorne Upholstered Armchair | 21. Oblong Modern Stripe Throw Pillow

Let us know what TV living room would you like to see re-designed next in the comments!