The living room is the heart of every home - a versatile space where families gather, entertain guests, and unwind after long days. Proper lighting transforms this central hub from a basic gathering space into an inviting sanctuary that adapts to various activities and moods. Beyond mere illumination, thoughtfully chosen lighting fixtures enhance architectural features, create atmosphere, and support the room's multiple functions, from reading to socializing.
This comprehensive guide presents 31 innovative lighting solutions to elevate your living room's ambiance. You'll discover how to layer different light sources, select fixtures that complement your style, and create the perfect balance of task and ambient lighting. Whether planning a complete redesign or seeking small upgrades, these ideas will help you craft a well-lit, welcoming space that meets both practical needs and aesthetic goals.
Elevate The Ambience with a Statement Floor Lamp
Design inspired by Laura U Interior Design
A curved arc floor lamp with a metallic base transforms any living room corner into a striking focal point while providing essential task lighting. Position it near seating areas to create a reading nook or highlight architectural features. The lamp's adjustable arm allows light direction control, while its neutral shade ensures versatility across design styles. Pair with textured furnishings like leather sofas and woven rugs to build visual depth. A placed mirror amplifies the lamp's impact by reflecting light throughout the space.
A curved arc floor lamp with a metallic base serves as a striking focal point and provides task lighting.
Enchant Spaces Using a Moroccan Lantern
A Moroccan lantern serves as a captivating focal point in any living room, merging functionality with exotic charm. Opt for designs with intricate metalwork in bronze or matte black, casting mesmerizing shadows across walls and ceilings. Use warm-toned bulbs to enhance the lantern’s ethereal glow, creating a cozy and inviting ambiance. Suspend it from the ceiling or place it on a rustic wooden stand to balance traditional and modern elements. Pair it with textured decor, like a vintage leather couch and a woven area rug, complemented by terracotta accents or carved wood tables to complete the Moroccan-inspired aesthetic.
A Moroccan lantern with intricate metalwork casts mesmerizing shadows, creating a cozy ambiance.
Sculptural Wall Light for Unique Living Rooms
Sculptural wall lights crafted from brushed brass or matte black metal blend functionality and artistry, transforming your living room into a refined sanctuary. Place them symmetrically beside a bold mirror or statement artwork to elevate the room's elegance and balance.
Opt for LED fixtures with dimmable settings, offering seamless transitions between focused task lighting and soft mood illumination. Pair these wall lights with a neutral modular sofa and a sleek glass coffee table for a minimalist vibe. Complete the look with abstract monochrome art, creating a modern, cohesive design narrative.
Sculptural wall lights crafted from brushed brass or matte black metal elevate the room's elegance and balance.
Blend Old and New Lighting Fixtures Seamlessly
Design inspired by Chris Tubbs from Charles Mellersh Interior Design
Combine contemporary pendants with vintage-style sconces to create visual interest through contrasting eras. A statement mid-century chandelier anchors the space while providing overhead illumination. Incorporate mixed materials like marble and brass to bridge traditional and modern elements—position decorative mirrors to amplify light and unite diverse fixture styles. Select warm-toned bulbs across all fixtures to maintain lighting consistency despite varied design origins.
Contemporary pendants and vintage-style sconces create visual interest through contrasting eras.
Install Custom LED Lighting for Versatile Illumination
Conceal a custom LED strip along the borders of a floating ceiling or a built-in shelf to achieve soft, indirect illumination that transforms your living room. Select tunable white LEDs to effortlessly switch between warm and daylight tones, adapting to various moods and activities. Enhance convenience with smart controls, allowing easy brightness and color temperature adjustments via your smartphone or voice assistant.
Pair it with a charcoal-toned sectional sofa and a sleek walnut coffee table to complement the modern lighting. Add a textured area rug and understated wall art to inject warmth and character while maintaining a clean, sophisticated look that highlights the LED accents.
Concealed LED strip lighting along the ceiling or shelves provides soft, indirect illumination.
Soft Candlelight for Cozy, Inviting Living Spaces
Hang two rattan pendant lights at varying heights above a rustic reclaimed wood coffee table to create a cozy, layered effect. Opt for pendants with intricate, tightly woven designs to emit a soft, diffused glow that enhances the room’s warmth and intimacy. Neutral furnishings, such as a plush ivory sofa and a chunky knit throw, amplify the inviting atmosphere.
Scatter large pillar candles in glass holders across the coffee table and nearby shelves for complementary ambient lighting. Add natural accents, including a jute area rug and potted greenery in ceramic pots, to complete the earthy, welcoming look.
Rattan pendant lights at varying heights create a cozy, layered effect above a reclaimed wood coffee table.
Highlight Your Hearth with Fireplace Illumination
Install a matte black wall-mounted spotlight highlighting the fireplace mantel, drawing attention to its architectural charm. Use a warm white bulb to replicate the inviting glow of a fire, creating a cohesive and comforting atmosphere. Enhance the effect by incorporating a textured stone or brick surround that reflects the light and adds depth to the focal point.
Complement the lighting with a luxurious navy velvet sofa and a glass-topped coffee table featuring brass legs for an elegant touch. Finish the look with a faux fur rug, a chunky knit throw, and metallic candleholders on the mantel to heighten the cozy, refined ambiance.
A matte black wall-mounted spotlight highlights the fireplace mantel, drawing attention to its architectural charm.
Modern Pendant Light for Stylish Room Elegance
Design inspired by Interior Designer Maite Granda
A geometric pendant light with metallic finishes anchors the room's design by serving as illumination and sculptural art. To maximize its impact, position this statement piece centrally above gathering areas. The fixture's clean lines complement neutral furnishings, adding visual interest through form and material. Natural light from windows enhances the pendant's metallic surfaces, creating dynamic light play throughout the day. Incorporate contrasting textures through wooden elements and metal accents to create a sophisticated atmosphere.
A geometric pendant light with metallic finishes anchors the room's design, serving as illumination and sculptural art.
Reading Lamps for Functional, Focused Illumination
Design inspired by Emily Henderson Design
Minimalist floor lamps in matte black finish provide targeted task lighting while maintaining visual harmony. Position these functional pieces adjacent to seating areas to support reading and detailed activities. Balance the modern lamp design with classic furniture elements and natural materials. A neutral color palette allows the lighting to take center stage while maintaining an inviting atmosphere. Combining focused artificial light and natural daylight creates optimal daytime and evening use conditions.
Minimalist floor lamps in matte black finish provide targeted task lighting while maintaining visual harmony.
Choose a Bold Standing Lamp for Impact
Design inspired by Emily Bowser from Emily Henderson Design
Its striking design transforms a sculptural standing lamp with a spiral metallic base into a functional art piece. Position this statement fixture near seating areas to create purposeful lighting zones while maintaining visual interest. The lamp's dramatic scale balances with vintage elements like wicker furniture and natural textures. Ground the bold fixture with neutral backgrounds while incorporating selective color through textiles and botanicals. This approach allows the lamp's unique form to command attention without overwhelming the space.
A sculptural standing lamp with a spiral metallic base transforms into a functional art piece.
Oversized Floor Lamp for Dramatic Room Design
Add an oversized arc floor lamp with a matte black metal body and a white linen shade to create a bold design statement in your living room. Position the lamp to extend over a mid-century modern sofa, blending form and function with its elegant curve and soft, diffused lighting. The lamp provides a dramatic focal point while offering practical illumination for reading or relaxing.
Complete the look with a polished concrete coffee table and a slim walnut console table to contrast textures. A muted geometric rug and sculptural accents, such as ceramic vases, enhance the room’s modern sophistication.
An oversized arc floor lamp with a matte black metal body and a white linen shade creates a bold design statement.
Industrial Accents for Edgy, Contemporary Lighting
Introduce a bamboo natural pendant light with a raw, unfinished texture to create a striking blend of industrial and organic elements. Position the pendant as the central lighting fixture above a reclaimed wood coffee table, enhancing the rustic-industrial aesthetic. The natural fibers of the bamboo provide a warm contrast to the edgy vibe of the space, softening the overall look.
Complement the pendant with concrete or metal features, such as a steel-framed sofa with neutral gray fabric and polished concrete flooring. Add warmth with a leather armchair and layered wool throws. A monochromatic palette, accented with black and warm wood tones, ties the space together seamlessly.
A bamboo natural pendant light blends industrial and organic elements, creating a striking contrast.
Mix and Match Lighting Styles Creatively
Design inspired by Nile Johnson Interior Design
Combine minimalist floor lamps with traditional table fixtures to create layered lighting interest. A metallic tripod lamp adds contemporary height, while classic shaded lamps provide intimate illumination. Echo this mixing of styles through furniture selection, incorporating modern and traditional pieces. Reflective surfaces from metal and glass elements unite diverse lighting styles while maximizing brightness. A neutral foundation allows this eclectic combination to achieve cohesion without chaos.
Minimalist floor lamps and traditional table fixtures create layered lighting interest.
Classic Sconces for Timeless Wall Lighting
Design inspired by Tyler Karu Design + Interiors
Wall sconces with refined detailing provide architectural illumination and timeless elegance. Install pairs symmetrically on accent walls to create balanced light distribution and visual rhythm. Their warm glow softens against deep wall colors while complementing natural textures in furniture and accessories. Incorporate organic materials like rattan to balance the structured lighting elements. Select warm-temperature bulbs to enhance the intimate atmosphere while maintaining sophistication.
Wall sconces with refined detailing provide architectural illumination and timeless elegance.
Simple Statement Lighting for Minimalist Rooms
Suspend two rice paper pendant lights symmetrically above a rectangular white oak coffee table for a clean, minimalist look. With their soft, diffused glow, these lights enhance the serene ambiance of a minimalist living room while serving as understated yet functional focal points. The natural texture of the rice paper adds a subtle layer of visual depth without disrupting the simplicity of the design.
Complement the lighting with a low-profile beige sofa, a muted gray accent chair, and a flat-weave area rug in neutral tones. Keep decor minimal, using only a ceramic planter or a small book stack to preserve the uncluttered aesthetic.
Two rice paper pendant lights symmetrically suspended above a coffee table create a clean, minimalist look.
Retro Illumination Adding Nostalgic Charm
Capture nostalgic charm with retro-inspired lighting, such as mid-century modern table lamps or chandeliers featuring brass or gold finishes. Incorporate warm incandescent bulbs to recreate a cozy, vintage glow that enhances the nostalgic ambiance of your living room. The soft lighting and classic design elements create a timeless yet inviting atmosphere.
Pair these fixtures with velvet armchairs, tufted sofas, or vintage wooden sideboards to complete the retro aesthetic. Place the lamps near reading nooks or focal points to draw attention and add functionality. This setup beautifully blends old-world elegance with practical illumination.
Mid-century modern table lamps or chandeliers with brass or gold finishes recreate a cozy, vintage glow.
Combine Modern Lamps with Soft Decorative Accents
Incorporate modern table or floor lamps with sleek lines and contemporary finishes, such as chrome, matte black, or frosted glass, to bring a sophisticated edge to your living room. These lamps' clean, minimalistic design adds a polished touch, perfect for modern interiors. Use warm LED bulbs to maintain a cozy, inviting atmosphere while highlighting the sharp, contemporary style.
To create a harmonious look, balance the clean lines with soft decorative accents, including textured cushions, cozy throws, or shaggy rugs. Arrange lamps in pairs on side tables or position a floor lamp beside a lounge chair for a cohesive and functional placement.
Modern table or floor lamps with sleek lines and contemporary finishes bring a sophisticated edge to your living room.
Strategically Place Pendants for Balanced Illumination
Introduce rattan pendant lights to infuse your living room with a warm, natural charm that suits modern and rustic designs. The woven texture and earthy tones of rattan create a cozy atmosphere while casting captivating shadows that add depth to the space. These pendants effortlessly bridge the gap between functionality and natural elegance.
Position rattan pendants above a coffee table or in a reading nook to establish an inviting focal point. Pair them with neutral furnishings or bohemian rugs to emphasize their organic appeal, creating a balanced and serene ambiance that feels stylish and grounded.
Rattan pendant lights infuse your living room with a warm, natural charm that suits modern and rustic designs.
Add Charm with Abstract End Table Lamps
Design inspired by Marie Flanigan Interiors
Glass-based table lamps with brass accents serve as functional sculptures in the space. Place these artistic pieces on stone to emphasize their refined materials and forms. Their modern design contrasts against neutral upholstery while maintaining visual harmony. Warm light sources enhance the intimate atmosphere while highlighting the lamps' artistic qualities. Incorporate complementary textures through accessories to unite contemporary lighting with classic design elements.
Glass-based table lamps with brass accents serve as functional sculptures in the space.
Dimmable Overhead Lighting for Adaptive Room Moods
Install a central dimmable LED ceiling light with a frosted glass cover to provide even illumination and minimize glare. Adjust the lighting to a warm white tone for relaxed evenings or switch to a cooler setting for tasks like reading or entertaining. The dimming feature allows you to effortlessly adapt the ambiance to suit any mood or activity, enhancing the room’s versatility.
Pair the lighting with a modern light gray sectional sofa and a round marble coffee table for a sophisticated, contemporary look. Add a medium-pile beige rug and metallic accents, such as brass candlesticks, to tie the space together seamlessly while maintaining a balanced, inviting aesthetic.
A central dimmable LED ceiling light provides even illumination and minimizes glare.
Recessed Lighting for Sleek, Subtle Ceiling Design
Install six evenly spaced recessed ceiling lights to achieve sleek, uniform illumination throughout your living room. Opt for adjustable LED fixtures with a 60-degree beam angle, allowing you to highlight key areas such as a coffee table or wall art. This design creates a shadow-free, subtle glow that enhances the room’s modern sophistication without overwhelming the space.
Pair the lighting with a low-profile muted green sofa and a square walnut coffee table for a minimalist yet warm aesthetic. Add a handwoven jute rug and neutral-toned throw pillows for texture contrast. Clean-lined shelving and an understated floor planter complete the airy, uncluttered design.
Six evenly spaced recessed ceiling lights achieve sleek, uniform illumination throughout your living room.
Abstract Chandeliers for Eye-Catching Room Centerpieces
Design inspired by Gray Space Interior Design
Crystal chandeliers with intricate detailing create dramatic focal points through light play and reflection. Center these statement fixtures to provide balanced illumination while drawing attention upward. Neutral furnishings allow the chandelier's complexity to command attention without competition. Layer textures through rugs and textiles to balance the fixture's brilliance. Warm light sources enhance the intimate atmosphere, while metallic accents echo the chandelier's refinement throughout the space.
Crystal chandeliers with intricate detailing create dramatic focal points through light play and reflection.
Tasteful Track Lights for Versatile Spotlighting
Install a sleek track lighting system with four adjustable heads in matte black or white to illuminate specific areas of your living room, such as a gallery wall or a cozy seating nook. Position the track along the ceiling’s edge for a clean, modern look, and use dimmable LED bulbs to adapt the lighting for different moods and activities.
Complement the lighting with two soft leather armchairs, a minimalist glass coffee table, and a geometric-patterned area rug to enhance the contemporary vibe. Adjust the lights to highlight decor elements like framed art or ceramic sculptures, adding depth and visual intrigue.
A sleek track lighting system with four adjustable heads illuminates specific areas of your living room.
Laid-Back Lanterns for Relaxed, Ambient Lighting
Hang two rice paper pendant lights at varying heights above a rectangular reclaimed wood coffee table to create a cozy and ambient focal point. Choose lanterns in soft, off-white tones to emit a gentle glow that’s perfect for relaxed evenings. These natural fixtures offer a serene and inviting atmosphere while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic.
Pair the lights with a linen-upholstered sofa in a light beige tone, accented with woven throw blankets and muted earthy pillows. Add a flat-woven geometric rug and potted plants in clay pots to enhance the organic feel. Avoid additional lighting to keep the space tranquil and centered on the lanterns.
Two rice paper pendant lights at varying heights create a cozy and ambient focal point above a reclaimed wood coffee table.
Modern Mix of Styles for Vibrant Spaces
Install a multi-arm ceiling light with brass accents and exposed filament bulbs to create a bold mid-century modern centerpiece in your living room. This dynamic fixture combines function and style, adding warmth and visual interest. Its sculptural design complements a variety of decor elements, tying the room together seamlessly.
Pair the light with a jewel-toned velvet sectional, like emerald green, for a luxurious pop of color. Add a terrazzo coffee table to introduce textural contrast and ground the space with a vibrant kilim area rug featuring bold patterns. Oversized abstract art and metallic vases complete the eclectic yet cohesive design.
A multi-arm ceiling light with brass accents and exposed filament bulbs creates a bold mid-century modern centerpiece.
Natural Lighting to Brighten and Energize Rooms
Hang two rattan pendant lights symmetrically above a reclaimed wood coffee table to bring a natural, light-inspired ambiance into your living room. Choose pendants with open-weave designs to cast playful shadows that mimic sunlight filtering through leaves. This soft, organic lighting enhances the room’s earthy character and creates a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Position a light beige linen sofa near large, unobstructed windows to maximize natural daylight. Add vibrant greenery, such as a fiddle-leaf fig or hanging plants, to amplify the fresh, organic aesthetic. A woven jute rug and light wood shelving complete the energizing, nature-inspired design.
Rattan pendant lights bring a natural, light-inspired ambiance into your living room, casting playful shadows.
Light-Filtering Curtains for a Diffused Sunlit Ambience
Install sheer linen curtains in off-white to softly filter sunlight into your living room, creating a glowing, diffused ambiance. The curtains bring a natural elegance that enhances the room’s serenity without the need for additional fixtures. This subtle lighting transforms the space into a tranquil retreat.
Complement the filtered light with a cream-toned sectional sofa and a round oak coffee table for a warm and cohesive aesthetic. Add a cluster of glass vases or ceramic accents to reflect the gentle light. A pale wool area rug and minimal wall decor, like framed line art or monochrome photography, complete the understated yet inviting design.
Sheer linen curtains softly filter sunlight into your living room, creating a glowing, diffused ambiance.
LED Strip Lights for Customisable Wall Accents
Install an LED strip light along the back edge of a floating shelf or entertainment unit to create a sleek and versatile wall accent. Opt for a color-changing LED strip with smart controls, allowing you to adjust the lighting for different moods or occasions. This subtle yet impactful feature enhances the room’s modern aesthetic while adding functionality.
Pair the lighting with a modular sofa in a deep charcoal tone and a glass coffee table with black steel legs for a contemporary look. Frame the illuminated area with geometric wall art or shelving, and ground the space with a textured neutral area rug. Add warmth with metallic accents like a copper vase for contrast.
An LED strip light along the back edge of a floating shelf creates a sleek and versatile wall accent.
Create an Atmosphere with an Ambient Lighting Medley
Place two table lamps with ceramic bases and fabric shades symmetrically on wooden side tables, flanking a neutral-toned sofa to create a balanced and ambient lighting arrangement. These lamps provide soft, warm light that enhances the room's inviting atmosphere. Add a matte black floor lamp with an adjustable arm beside an armchair to craft a cozy and functional reading nook.
Pair the lighting with textured decor, including a plush wool area rug and velvet throw pillows, to add warmth and depth. Complement the look with small accents like a ceramic vase and framed photos, ensuring a cohesive and welcoming living room.
Table lamps and a floor lamp provide soft, warm light and create a cozy and functional reading nook.
Lighted Wall Art for Decorative Illumination
Install an LED-backlit metal wall sculpture with a nature-inspired design to serve as a decorative focal point and a source of ambient lighting. Position it above a low-profile walnut console table, styled simply with a glass vase or a small stack of books. Warm white LED backlighting creates a soft halo effect, adding depth and elegance without overpowering the room.
Pair the illuminated wall art with a neutral gray sectional sofa and a textured area rug in muted earth tones. This combination emphasizes the sculpture's artistic and functional qualities, creating a balanced and inviting living space.
An LED-backlit metal wall sculpture serves as a decorative focal point and a source of ambient lighting.
Warm Bulbs Creating a Welcoming Glow
Position a floor lamp with a frosted glass globe shade and a brass base to provide warm, diffused lighting throughout your living room. Pair it with an Edison-style bulb to create a soft, inviting glow, ideal for entertaining and unwinding. The lamp’s timeless design adds elegance while enhancing the cozy ambiance of the space.
Complement the lighting with a deep navy velvet sofa and a round coffee table in light oak for a sophisticated, balanced look. Add a woven beige area rug and soft-knitted throw blankets. Incorporate subtle gold or copper accents, such as candle holders or picture frames, to reflect the warm light and complete the inviting aesthetic.
A floor lamp with a frosted glass globe shade and a brass base provides warm, diffused lighting throughout your living room.
How to choose a lighting fixture for the Living room?
Choosing the right lighting fixtures can transform your living room into a functional and inviting space. From purpose to style, every detail matters to create the perfect ambiance.
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Determine the purpose of the lighting fixture. Decide if it will serve as the main source of light, a decorative accent, or task-specific illumination. A chandelier can act as the primary light, while small pendants or floor lamps enhance specific zones like a reading area or artwork.
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Consider the size of your living room to select appropriately sized fixtures. Small rooms (under 12 m²) benefit from compact options like flush mounts or mini pendants, while medium spaces (12–25 m²) work well with mid-sized or layered lighting. For large rooms (25 m²+), oversized fixtures or multiple lights provide sufficient illumination and visual balance.
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Ensure the fixture matches your room's style. Modern spaces suit sleek metal or glass designs, while bohemian rooms shine with natural materials like rattan or bamboo. Minimalist decor pairs with neutral-toned fixtures, and industrial themes benefit from bold black or metallic elements.
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Select colors and shapes that harmonize with your room. Neutral tones like white or beige blend effortlessly, while bold colors like gold or teal create visual interest. Rounded fixtures add softness and geometric shapes lend structure to the decor.
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Choose the appropriate type of installation. Hardwired fixtures provide a seamless look but require a professional setup, while plug-in options are flexible and renter-friendly, making them ideal for temporary or accent lighting.
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Select the right light bulb for your needs. Warm white bulbs (2700K–3000K) create a cozy atmosphere, while cool white bulbs (4000K) suit brighter, task-oriented lighting. Dimmable LEDs allow you to adjust the brightness to match different moods or activities.
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Match the cord length to your ceiling height for proper placement. Flush mounts suit low ceilings, while pendants or chandeliers with longer cords accommodate high ceilings. Properly adjusted fixtures ensure both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
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Opt for durable materials to ensure the longevity of your fixture. High-traffic living rooms benefit from sturdy finishes and robust designs, like those offered by IndochinaLight, which balance style and resilience.
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Balance your budget with quality. Affordable metal or fabric designs are practical, while premium handcrafted pieces provide statement-worthy elegance. Investing in a durable fixture ensures long-term value and enhances the overall look of your living room.
Choosing the right lighting fixture for your living room can significantly impact the overall ambiance and functionality of the space.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of lighting is best for a living room?
The optimal lighting for living rooms utilizes warm white light between 2,700 and 3,300 Kelvin. This temperature range creates an inviting atmosphere while providing sufficient illumination for various activities. When selecting light sources, prioritize options that offer this warm spectrum to establish comfortable, versatile environments.
How to create good lighting in a living room?
Develop lighting plans by first addressing functional needs through primary circuits. Layer additional light sources to build depth and support different activities. Incorporate decorative fixtures to establish focal points and enhance architectural features. Include targeted illumination for artwork and built-ins. Implement separate circuits with individual controls to maximize flexibility.
What is the rule of thumb for lighting?
Effective lighting design requires multiple light sources working in concert. While overhead fixtures often anchor the lighting scheme, they should be supplemented by two to three additional sources, such as table lamps, wall sconces, or floor lamps. This layered approach ensures balanced illumination while supporting various activities and moods.
This comprehensive guide presents 31 innovative lighting solutions to transform your living room from basic to extraordinary. From selecting the right fixtures and bulbs to strategic placement and layering techniques, these ideas provide practical steps to enhance your space's function and atmosphere.
Discover IndochinaLight's collection of handcrafted rattan and bamboo pendant lights to bring natural warmth and artisanal craftsmanship to your living room design:
IndochinaLight - IndochinaHomeDecor LLC
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Address: 30 N Gould St Ste. N, Sheridan, WY 82801
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Phone: (+)1 307 249 0594
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Email: service@indochinalight.com
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