Hollywood Regency is what happens when glamour learns restraint.
It’s mirrored surfaces and plush seating. Bold silhouettes and reflective metals. But in its modern form, it’s less about excess and more about concentration—a few impeccably chosen moments that feel cinematic and controlled.
If you want your living room to whisper “Old Hollywood” while still feeling very now, this is how to do Modern Hollywood Regency with quiet-luxury discipline.
Begin With the Bones: Layout and Scale
Hollywood Regency isn’t shy, but it is intentional.
Start by defining a clear seating arrangement:
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A generous sofa as the anchor
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Two accent chairs facing or flanking it
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A strong coffee table at the center
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Optionally, a bench or ottoman as a bridge piece
Furniture should feel substantial, not delicate. Curved arms, tuxedo silhouettes, and tight-backed sofas all suit the mood.
Choose a Glamorous—but Controlled—Palette
Think of your living room as a film still.
Classic Modern Hollywood Regency palettes often include:
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Black, white, and ivory as a base
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Deep jewel tones (emerald, sapphire, garnet) or blush and champagne as accents
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Gold, brass, or polished nickel metals
You can go dramatic—black walls, high-contrast patterns—or more neutral, with the drama happening in shapes and materials.
The key is discipline. Pick a palette and stay loyal.
Let Seating Do the Talking
This style loves statement seating:
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Velvet sofas in jewel tones or soft neutrals
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Curved or scalloped backs
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Deep seats with crisp, tailored cushions
Pair with accent chairs in a contrasting—but complementary—fabric or silhouette.
Every seat should look like a place where someone interesting would sit down, order a martini, and share a story.
Introduce Mirror, Lacquer, and High-Gloss Surfaces
Reflection is a Hollywood Regency signature.
Bring in:
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Mirrored side tables or consoles
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Lacquered coffee tables or cabinets
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High-gloss frames, trays, or decorative boxes
These surfaces catch the light and create a sense of movement, especially in the evening. Balance them with matte textures—bouclé, linen, wool—so the room doesn’t tip into nightclub territory.
Light the Room Like a Set
Lighting in a Hollywood Regency living room should feel almost theatrical—but never harsh.
Layer:
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A statement chandelier or pendant, preferably with some sparkle or sculptural metal
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Wall sconces with shades that glow softly
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Table lamps with dramatic shapes and beautiful bases
Use dimmers everywhere. The most glamorous rooms always feel slightly candlelit, even when no candles are burning.
Pattern and Detail: Strategic, Not Overwhelming
Patterns can be bold here, but they should be focused.
Excellent candidates:
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Greek key borders
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Geometric rugs
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Striped or animal-print pillows
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Art Deco motifs
Choose one or two pattern moments and repeat them subtly rather than scattering many different motifs everywhere.
Style the Coffee Table Like a Director’s Shot
In Hollywood Regency, the coffee table is a composition.
Think:
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A stack or two of oversized books (fashion, film, architecture, interiors)
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A glamorous object—a sculptural knot, a crystal piece, a polished box
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A candle and matches on a tray
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Possibly a small floral arrangement (roses, orchids, or calla lilies in a simple vessel)
From any angle, your coffee table should look like it belongs in an editorial shoot.
Use Art as Your Close-Up
Your art should feel confident, not tentative.
Options:
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Black-and-white photography (portrait, architecture, cinematic scenes)
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Abstract pieces with strong lines or metallic accents
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Bold, graphic works that echo your color palette
Hang pieces at eye level and give them breathing room. One commanding piece over the sofa often feels more luxurious than a cluttered gallery wall.
Add a Final Layer of Glamour
Hollywood Regency thrives on finishing touches:
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A bar cart or cabinet with cut crystal glassware and decanters
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Plush pillows with subtle trim or piping
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A throw draped over a chair in a way that looks effortlessly intentional
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A mirror placed to capture the best view in the room
The room should feel like it’s always ready for guests—even if the only person enjoying it tonight is you.
When you’re ready to bring in the velvet seating, mirrored tables, sculptural lighting, and glamorous objects that make Modern Hollywood Regency sing, Hello Luxury Life™ Los Angeles is your styling partner.