1. Great couch. A great couch anchors the seating arrangement in any living room. Opt for a piece that is streamlined and relatively neutral in color so that it can transition with the space over time. Add pops of color with accessories like pillows and lamp shades.
2. Eye-catching art. A statement art piece is a wonderful way to express your signature style. Hang an over sized work (or a collection of smaller "related" pieces) above the couch or fireplace as a focal piece. With art, always go with what you like - you're the one who has to live with it!
3. Functional tables. As for coffee/cocktail tables, I always recommend really thinking about how you use your space before you purchase. Do you want a comfortable foot rest? Perhaps go with a leather bench or ottoman. Do you need extra storage? Go with a table that has shelves or hidden interior storage. Need flexibility? A collection of small stools or cubes can be bunched together to work as a table or separated to use as extra seating.
4. Give a gift to others. Though this holiday season is a trying time for many of us with the current state of the economy, it's still wonderful to think about giving back. Donate gently used toys to under-privileged children, give canned goods to a soup kitchen or spend an afternoon with older residents at a nursing home. A gift of your time is often the most precious, and it's a great way to spend time together as a family.