Software
Houzz Logo Print
ers12345

Balancing a neutral living room wall

9 years ago

Hello, advice givers! I am at a loss for what to add to one of the living room walls in our new home to balance things out and give the room some lift. The room, which is open concept (no fourth wall), is done in neutrals -- dark brown wood furniture; stormy gray-blue fabric couches; tan accent chairs, rug and lamp shades.

Currently, we have a large wooden-framed mirror centered on the tan-painted wall above the TV and media stand. Furniture-wise, a matching chair and ottoman will be added to the space on the right (on order). What would add to the wall space? Sconces? Framed artwork? Shelving?

The opposite wall holds an oversized gray and blue abstract piece of art. I'd like to pull out those colors, which match our sofas, on anything added to the wall at issue.

Adding a few other photos of the space below. Don't mind the perturbed-looking kitten; he adds to the neutral theme! Appreciate your input!

Comments (13)

  • 9 years ago

    How about a pair of bookshelves? You can a place for, well, books, of course. But, you can also have a place for other items which will add visual interest: small plants(kitty friendly ones), souvenirs from favorite trips, family photos, etc. As for the kitty, they usually get perturbed when the "staff" rearranges the furniture. They get over it. :>)

  • 9 years ago


    Sunset Stream · More Info

    Denver Country Club Home · More Info
    The mirror over the TV will always compete with anything on that wall. Consider a longer (25% longer than the TV) console for the TV and framed black and white photography around the TV. Congratulations on your lovely new home!

  • 9 years ago

    Thank you both for your posts! I like the idea of a larger console, and will keep on the lookout for that.

    I did think about adding two bookcases (I like the leaning ladder ones particularly) but that would displace the two chairs. (I have a second chair and ottoman that matches the one in the photos en route as we needed more sitting space -- there is not another place in the house where the chairs would fit or work unfortunately).


  • 9 years ago

    You are very gracious to consider the suggestions being made! Can't help but warn you that leaning ladder shelving would be out of scale for your space.

  • 9 years ago

    Thanks Paulette. They are off the list anyway as I have a second chair and ottoman en route for the space to the right in the photos. I'm still a bit at a loss as to what to do on either side of the mirror on the wall, however.

  • 9 years ago

    Well, Patricia. You certainly shared a lot of opinions here. Thanks for your time.

  • 9 years ago

    I like what cramps36 said. Agree with Patricia Colwell opinion on the drapes and the mirror. Also don't think you need anything on the wall between the drapes. (don't need the wreath) Pretty darn good start, though. Hope you share pics as this progresses.

  • PRO
    9 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Your space is very soothing --love the color scheme!

    I really think the best way to balance your living room wall is by replacing side tables and coffee table (wood pieces) with wood that is lighter that has the same tones as your walls. This will balance the neutral color throughout your space. Right now the darker pieces are pulling the eye too much (if that makes sense??). I also agree with other opinions regarding a longer thin credenza for TV, long drapes, repositioning rug. One last little opinion is adding a rug with more texture. This will help add to the cozy feeling you have established.

    Really is a lovely room! Hope this helps!

  • PRO
    9 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    I'm definitely a fan so far. Do you have pics of the chair and ottoman you ordered? Just to help us visualize it all?

    The one thing I don't like is the mirror - the frame is very dark and thick, so it really overwhelms the wall (and makes the tv look smaller, if that's something that concerns you). I would trade it out for some art - maybe 3 or 5 small framed pieces with a lot of white and light grays. Or 2 sort of tall pieces on either side of the tv, and then you could move that wreath over and center it there.

  • PRO
    9 years ago

    Oh I also like Glo's suggestion of lighter tables. You could probably even paint the ones you have a warm gray or dark beige.

  • 9 years ago

    Thank you both for your comments and input. I appreciate it.

    We recently purchased the living room coffee table, end tables, and TV credenza before we moved overseas so are keeping them for the room at present. The chair and ottoman to come are a replicate of the ones pictured here. We bought a second set so we would have a matching pair. I also juuuust bought the mirror last week (and love it). It could work in another room if we find the right artwork to replace it, but we are a bit limited as we don't have traditional box stores where we are residing and a lot of online retailers that carry art can't/won't ship internationally. It is definitely a time in our lives to get creative, but unfortunately, interior design is clearly not my area of creativity!

  • PRO
    9 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Neutral living room have maintained the same cohesive color palette, but that doesn't mean not all pieces are the same. I like mix and match fabrics and styles to add a little depth. For example, my home isn’t covered in family photos, but I love integrating them in the living room. Even with carpet, consider adding a rug. It adds both warmth and interest. I also like to layer with pillows and throws.


    Old Town Modern Rowhouse · More Info


    Fresh Downtown Loft · More Info

    Check out my website!