Dilemma: Too casual
Solution: Refine the color palette and add crisp storage solutions.
If you avoid bringing company into your living room because it's become a cave for watching TV and nothing more, it's time to give your room a lift. Here are a few ideas.
• Keep your color palette tight. Two main colors (one "safe" hue like pale blue and one punchy shade like raspberry, to be used in smaller doses) and one neutral (white always works) are plenty.
• If your upholstery is seriously sagging, consider having it redone or buy a new piece. If the fabric itself is fine but the seat sags, look into having your cushions restuffed (much cheaper than reupholstering).
• Add art and fun details. A neat tea tray, a fresh throw and a sweet little vase for flowers can do wonders.
• Hide away the media mess — DVDs, gaming equipment and the like — in crisp, matching boxes or bins.