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snagd_gw

I could use suggestions pulling it together..

14 years ago

I had high hopes for this space,but I am struggling to make it feel complete. I plan to get upholstered chairs and banquette cushion and beef up the trim around the mirror.I also hope to make corbels for the upper cabinets. Any other ideas to warm it up?thanks!

Comments (61)

  • 14 years ago

    I am with Leafy: the mirror is fine, but you need some COLOR. All the white ceramic pieces,small lamp and table centerpiece all blend together and they are all the same size.Do you have a accent color in mind? Do you plan on adding window treatments? If it were me, I would choose an accent color, pick up various items at Home Goods (pillows, table runner and ceramics) and see what works and return the rest :)

  • 14 years ago

    Here is another one. The prices are great.

  • 14 years ago

    What a great space to play with! I like the idea of a more colorful rug.

    I'm a big fan of table runners because they instantly add warmth to a table like your's..I have one similar to it.

    The mirror would look better in a formal dining room. I do like the idea of a white window framed mirror that was mentioned.

    If not a mirror, you can add a grouping of plates to the wall. I like the plate rack idea, but I could see me bumping my head on one and knocking it all down. lol.

    One last thing, find a cute placemat to put under your doggie bowls.

  • 14 years ago



    Terrific suggestions ! Here are the rooms that surround it for reference.That long wall really has be baffled i love the light reflected by the mirror..was thinkin about doing a shelf infront somehow but idk.!lol..funny thing i have been looking at a plate rack at an antique store but wasnt sure how to full that wall with just something like it..i really dont want it to country looking. I love the sconce idea..maybe i could get electricity there?awesome ideas..thanks tons!

  • 14 years ago

    For your breakfast room wall, it would be nice to use a "window frame mirror". I have several of these mirrors, and they add light to the room without giving the impression of a hole in the wall.

    The white frame will add a light-weight quality and give the visual impression that there's a window in the wall.

    Like this, without the hooks:

    And the lengthwise rectangles would echo the shape of your cabinet glass.

  • 14 years ago

    i like the mirror too!! i do like the idea of adding 'panes' and molding to it to make it look like a window...(i would include a horizontal strip because i would be afraid that only vertical trim would make the rectangles too long...) you could also add bottom molding to resemble a sill...

    you could add some candle sconces and avoid electrical work...

    i would find a pretty fabric to make a cushion/pillows and choose the upholstered chairs and then reevaluate to see if you want anything else. those fabric additions will add ALOT of warmth!!

  • 14 years ago

    If it were my space, I'd change out that ceiling light if I could find a mini (semi-flush) version of the kitchen light. What you have currently match well enough, but I think it would improve the beauty of your space.

    I think you should NOT add pops of color to your space. I love your neutrals throughout the rooms (and neutrals obviously appeal to you.) It looks very calm and beautiful to me. I like the white accents with brown contrasting.... I like your current pillows. You could add a real plant to the table for a little more contrast that is natural. (With all that said, I'm curious what your plans are for the cushions and chairs?)

    I agree that the main issue in the room is that mirror. The trim is definitely too small, but I think the mirror has the wrong proportions for that space. Whatever fills that wall needs to be rectangular in shape rather than square.

    RE: shades... do you need privacy or light blocking for the banquette windows? If so, I would do roman shades in that space. If not, I think the windows are lovely already.

  • 14 years ago

    Love your gorgeous neutral spaces -- just wonderful!

    For your breakfast nook -- consider switching to neutral-colored white-gray wicker/woven chairs around the table.

    Texture is the key to adding warmth. Perhaps adding long cushions to the bench seat -- made with neutral BUT "nubbly" textured fabric.

    LOVE the mirror! Great simple clean lines -- perhaps add some white ironstone plates on each side?

    Or perhaps hang antique or reproduction botanicals with large creamy mats and white frames on each side?

  • 14 years ago

    Try moving the mirror left, centering it over the banquette area. The back of the banquette rather halves the wall, so the mirror looks like half is grounded, and half is not. Don't put it higher than the tops of the windows. Maybe use one like the white one mcclarke pictures. Then, decorate with something, smaller, rounder on the other side of the wall and see if this balances it for you. I LOVE your colors, and I don't think you need a lot of other color.

  • 14 years ago

    snagd, the fixtures I listed are battery operated. My sister has some and she loves them. Hers has a timer on them. They come on every evening at the same time. Just a thought for u.

  • 14 years ago

    caminnc - do you know the brand of your sister's?

  • 14 years ago

    Adding the chairs and cushions on the banquette will make a big difference. I'm not liking the mirror. I think a large painting or group of pics will give the space more warmth. I'd put curtains (not valances) on the windows and get rid of the rug.

    Do you want to add color or keep the monochromatic look?

  • 14 years ago

    I love your spaces! I'm a big fan of those kind of wide open simple spaces. If you want to keep a mirror in that space, I think the one you have is too big and the frame is too small for it. Why don't you try to echo the frame from the mirror in your other room? Or add a picture with some "big blobs" of color in it? That would keep with the open feel of these wonderful spaces.

  • 14 years ago

    Your rooms are just beautiful! You don't need much more to finish it up. I agree with Les that a collection of things would look better than the mirror on that wall.

    Do you mind sharing with me the beautiful wall color?

  • 14 years ago

    I would not do a mirror that is paned like a window. I think they are a great look, but you already have a complete wall of windows on the left, and glass-front cabinets that create a paned-window effect on the right. Adding a third wall with the same look is missing an opportunity for some great art or photos, or even a textural fabric art piece of some kind.

    I think a plate rack is another duplication of the dishes on display on the right. On their own, plate racks are stunning, but I just don't think it is the right look for here with what is already in place.

    Just for fun, could you take the round mirror from your hall and hold it up there, to get a sense of what something in that shape might do for the space? Not sure it is the right size, , but might be worth a shot.

    One thing you might consider doing is getting the seating and perhaps a different rug, if that appeals to you, in place. Then see how the room feels, and decorate that wall accordingly.

    Your home is already lovely - I am sure you will do a great job!

  • 14 years ago

    I would continue the trim (and beadboard?) from the banquette across the wall under the mirror. I like the mirror size, but it does seem austere. Perhaps add a circular moulding (or some other item) within the current mirror. Plants and books always warm up a space. A hanging plant near the window, or a low-light plant in the corner would look nice. (VERY rudimentary drawing of this below.)

    Once you have upholstered banquette and chairs, I think things will automatically look much warmer. I could also see using one real lounge chair under the mirror, with more conventional dining chairs around the table. Or you could use wicker or woven chairs, which certainly introduce a note of warmth. As someone suggested, a runner or place mats also can add color, and fresh cut flowers can't be beat.

    It's a lovely room -- I hope you post more photos when the upholstered items are in.

    Chair possibilities (with your upholstery choice):


  • 14 years ago

    lolauren, they are from ~QVC~

  • 14 years ago

    Oh snagd, Please come back and tell me what your paint color is.

  • 14 years ago

    I see you have a nice round mirror in your foyer. Can you hang this mirror by the banquette for a minute, snap a picture, and let's see how the round shape works.

    Also, you have a very neutral colored space. Can you pick one accent color and add little pops of color in your accents. I guess your upholestry will be the starting point for your colors. I like this color scheme, its subtle:

    http://www.oceanstyles.com/tabletop-decor/placemats-napkins/sawgrass-collection-p-1871

    I also saw some great accent pieces in Pier 1 yesterday.

  • 14 years ago

    I am sorry trying to decorate..i have been attempting to lay a travertine floor ..very intense!lol..the color is a custom mix,i combined afew different ones to get it..Im sorry:( I will try and get a pic of the round mirror there. I did try and hang a large picture there and the family all voted mirror. i do agree that the shape is off,hoping by flanking it with something would lengthen the feel? I live in a town very limited with resources,i was going out of town today but snowing and blowing so prbably not now. I love those wicker chairs mjlb! I really like the earthy feel of them. Thanks for the info on the sconces caminnc,very pretty! I did just get two new pillows for that room which i had already ordered..can you guess the color?oops!

  • 14 years ago

    Ah well thanks for letting me know. It seems close to the color I decided on and I wanted to compare the two chips.

    Here's what it would look like with a bigger mirror and the plates and extending the molding idea that others suggested. The only thing is I don't think I would put a light fixture over the table if you have a bigger mirror because it would reflect off center. That might not look right. To me, it seems to fit the wall better though if you want to do a mirror. I'm no expert but at least you get the visual.

  • 14 years ago

    I love your space! I think the monochromatic color scheme is so restful and elegant.

    If it were me, I would not bring in more color but definitely more texture as others have suggested. Small scale wicker chairs are a great idea. Especially since they will hold pillows as well as a nubby throw or two tossed over the chair backs.

    I am so with Aunt Jen on the mirror - I think that space is begging for a huge, white, crusty mirror with loads of patina. An old mirror would be ideal but you can always find an amazing old frame and have the hardware store cut and mount the glass.

    Would you consider bamboo shades or short white linen panels for the windows?

    A small scale chandelier or lantern hung low over the table would also make the seating area seem intimate.

    It is a terrific space! I cannot wait to see how it evolves.

  • 14 years ago

    that is an inspiring rendering tryintodecorate! thanks so much for that.. that definetly grounds the mirror adding trim. The windows are so tiny i didnt know what to put on them,privacy is not an issue there. I am going to go see what i can find today thanks everyone:)

  • 14 years ago

    I wonder if perhaps your table is too small. Maybe that's the problem.

  • 14 years ago

    I'm just not wild about the mirror or any mirror - it duplicates the wood/windows look of the cabinets and just seems to float on the wall,reflecting many (too many) things - making it somehow too busy - the busyness of the reflection seems to then be part of the kitchen wall. I think loading the wall with a lot of things makes the kitchen too busy - there are lots of objects on the counter, things on the table, pillows.

    I'm beginning to think the wall needs a beautiful piece of art (big) that introduces a bit of color and maybe some rustic, large wrought iron sconces with white candles. There is a print of big huge pears that I have always loved - very striking, big, but simple...the soothing green might be beautiful on that wall.

  • 14 years ago

    Wonderful space! Love the entire area.

    The only thing I might add to what others have said (hope I didn't miss someone else saying this as I skimmed through) is using slipcovers over the folding chairs. I have seen them in catalogues and if I can find them, I'll be back with a link.

  • 14 years ago

    cattknap -- possible artwork?

    Here is a link that might be useful: art.com -- pears artwork

  • 14 years ago

    another possible artwork?

    Here is a link that might be useful: nicole etienne -- artwork

  • 14 years ago

    Teacats - thanks for posting those - I love the colors in the first one and the rustic feel of the second one.

  • 14 years ago

    This is interesting:

    Shaker Hat Hanging on Wall - can be printed in many sizes:

    http://www.allposters.com/gallery.asp?startat=/getPoster.asp&frameSku=3569393_4990703-120

  • 14 years ago

    sorry, here it is

    Here is a link that might be useful: print

  • PRO
    14 years ago

    Your rooms are lovely! Jumping in late to suggest a pretty wallpaper. I think that would fill in the expanse nicely and add some interest.


    or

    Here is a link that might be useful: Katzenbach and Warren wallpapers

  • 14 years ago

    I thought your table seemed a little small when I first looked at your room. I bet it won't seem as small when you get your larger chairs around it, though. I think the corbels under the upper cabinets will look great. It will make that whole side look like furniture. It really looks nice so far!!

  • 14 years ago

    I agree those prints are fabulous,since i dont have alot of pattern i think a picture would be nice(wallpaper is an awesome idea i wonder about it on one wall?)how about hanging a print infront of the mirror? definetly like the rectangle over the one i have now.I appreciate the thoughtful ideas!

  • PRO
    14 years ago

    When I mentioned wallpaper, I was suggesting only the large wall that the mirror is now on. One hour of work and you would be done!

  • 14 years ago

    another fun possibe artwork -- old map!

    Here is a link that might be useful: old map

  • 14 years ago

    another one .....

    Here is a link that might be useful: artwork -- birds nest

  • 14 years ago

    It's lovely just like it is.

    If you try to put a cushion on the banquette, it is going to be uncomfortably high to sit on.

    I agree with comments made previously - don't feel the need to add pops of color, instead look at adding texture, such as the wicker or woven chairs.

  • 14 years ago

    Love your neutral space! I like mirrors and the reflection/brightness they provide. Maybe some ironstone pieces hung on either side. Your idea of a more substantial frame could add more interest as well. I also like the touches of brown/ORB the frame and folding chairs provide which might lead me to choose either leather chairs or upholstered chairs in a brown/neutral/white patterned fabric. You have a beautiful home!

  • 14 years ago

    Snagd, I love your space ....all of it! I'm a huge fan of neutrals. I agree with others who think that once the dining chairs are brought in it will bring the whole breakfast nook together. I love the mjlb's idea of extending the beadboard to the corner and using some variation of the wicker chair she shared. Have you thought about using a mirror with a distressed wood finish like this .....maybe dusted with a little more dark glaze for contrast and flanked with sconces. The size is wrong but I thought the wood would mix well with the sisal , wicker and white ironstone.

  • 14 years ago

    I love the artwork idea. I hate to say this because it's not a certainly not a cheap fix, but the scale of the table to the window seats seems off to me. And it's hard to tell, but it looks as if the window seats protrude a little further than usual? You really do have lovely bones to work with, though, and the other rooms in your house look like they could come straight out of a magazine.

  • 14 years ago

    b-t-w, here's the source for the wicker chair -- on sale too:

    Here is a link that might be useful: wicker chairs

  • 14 years ago

    I love the banquette! And I don't think your table is too small--- in fact, I think you already have too many chairs. The picture looks like upholstered chairs that back up to the counter would not have enough room to scoot in and out comfortably with someone working at the sink. Since you have seating and a much larger surface area at the island already, do you really need all those chairs? I would use just one upholstered Parson's chair at the end of the table so it doesn't look crowded.

    Would not continue the wall treatment you have at the banquette as that makes it look as though it extends right into the counter. Instead, I would do either beadboard or a wider plank wainscot, which will visually "end" your banquette but finish off the wall.

    I also think a lovely painting would be a better choice than the mirror, which seems a bit out of place in a kitchen as well as having too-thin molding.

    Your colors and layout are outstanding ---- what a pretty kitchen!

  • 14 years ago

    I saw this mirror and thought of your space... it's about 45" x 35"

  • 13 years ago

    Just an update of things I have been working on! I am still trying to find a possible wallpaper to go on the accent wall and still looking for chairs,i have the fabric for cushions..just havent gotten that done..also playing with hardware!ha..thanks for all the help:)


  • 13 years ago

    Ooh, the new mirror and sconces look so nice. Are the sconces electric? They would look so nice when lit!

    The new trim on the bottom of the wall looks nice too. This room is so warm and inviting!

  • 13 years ago

    Snagd It looks so very nice. I really like your mirror and the sconces look wonderful. You really have done a great job. The rest of the room looks awesome too. I hope you find chairs you like soon. Please post again when you do. I'd love to see it done. I love subtle colors too.

  • 13 years ago

    VERY nice!

  • 13 years ago

    It looks more sophisticated already! Where did you get those fabulous sconces? I love them.

  • 13 years ago

    Love the sconces!