The open stairway keeps the family room visually connected to the bookcases and lets mom and dad "hear what sort of nonsense was going on in the playroom below," Brendan says. "Most of the bookcases are within reach without requiring excessive gymnastics, but we did design the bookcase so you could put a board across the gap from one side to the other and stand on it to fill the shelves."
2. Fiery orange and cool purple. In what is otherwise a neutral room, bright splashes of purple and orange play off each other for a classically playful theme. The patterns and colors in the ottoman and area rug also play to the African masks expertly displayed on the far wall.
This row house in Brooklyn belonged to dear friends of the architect, Bruce Coburn, making the renovation all the more special. Here, Coburn has taken full advantage of the stairs, lining them with bookshelves. This move makes the narrow media room seem wider.
Go for metal legs for a new and shiny look. A silver or copper finish can easily be achieved with spray paint: Rub the legs with sandpaper, spray with primer, then add the finish of your choice.More:Cutting Corners With Sectional SofasSix Tips for Choosing the Perfect SofaCube Ottomans Sit Squarely in Style