If privacy is not an issue, I would take down the shutters, and add 4 drapery panels mounted below the crown molding on a single rod, in a light colored fabric with a simple medium size pattern. Same option could work with shutters or some shades if you need privacy. I hope this helps.

Perhaps some colorful curtains and a sofa table will help liven up the room. Here is one of the many designs we did to help you improve your space.

It would be helpful if you posted a picture of more than just the windows and the sectional.

You could definitely do a lot with the space! I would suggest textured roller shades:

I would also add an area rug in a colour that compliments the roller shades. If you'd like to go a different route, individual full length curtains would look amazing as well! I would personally move the entire living space (sectional, end table, etc) back a bit and add a narrow side table beside the fireplace with some added decor and maybe more family photos for a personal touch.


Hope this helps! Looking forward to seeing the final result!

I would use some simple curtains....no shades of any type. A plain linen color might be nice. Your oomph could come from a rug and different art.

Perhaps you could add more light with a taller lamp and additional lighting sources in this room. A round mirror over your fireplace or elsewhere would help reflect light in your room. I think the shutters look appropriate in your space and are timeless, however, if you want something that allows an open view, then woven weave roman shades would looks great. Consider adding some color or texture w/a rug and new pillows on the sectional.

Please keep the ideas coming! I like the idea of adding a mirror over the fireplace. Also think of painting the mantle white. Any suggestions for what color throw pillows and rug? Everything feels so beige! Would a chandelier in the center give more light or look out of place? Thank you, Houzz friends!

I like your traditional clock on the mantel. A mirror is going to reflect (double) the kitchen. I'd try a rug and simple sheer cafe curtains to finish your room. They can be pulled to the sides when you want to see the view.

Your pictures are helpful! I would consider improving the balance and movement of this room with repositioning the furniture placement: Move the sectional so it is facing the windows and fireplace, place your ottoman parallel with fireplace, chair and end table with lamp to right of fireplace, move plant to right of windows/or maybe behind chair to right of fireplace. Move pictures from fireplace wall and mantel---arrange on walls either side of the opening to hall to what looks to be living room. Do you have a console that could be moved to behind the sectional on kitchen side? Would love a long console and two tall buffet type lamps. No chandelier. I would still do a round mirror on fireplace, could look for antiqued mirror if reflection bothers you; retain clock layered in front of mirror, off centered to right and then add greenery to left side-boxwood like topiary. Next: Add drape panels, four, to the shuttered window wall, mount on board to ceiling... something that coordinates with the chair fabric--maybe pulling in a deep purple with green. Looks like the green in your chair (or purple if you find contrast fabric for panels), in a solid velvet or mohair would be the color to pull out for large pillow on the sofa. I would keep the rug a textured solid---sisal like. Enjoy and congrats to your grad!

Love your chair, the fabric is beautiful!

The shutters in this space look very well done. But we understand your wish for more light and view. Our suggestion would be Bamboo/Woven Wood Shades.

These shades would let in drastically more light, and add a more relaxed and comfortable feel to the room. You can choose shades with or without a liner. Lining the shades will give a bit more privacy, but will decrease the view slightly. Bamboo Shades are a favorite by interior designers because they add texture and interest, and can mesh well with almost any decor style.

Hope this helps!