Need design advice to finish my space.

12 years ago

last modified: 12 years ago

I built my house, moved in a year ago and have been slowly adding things. I really do like the look of neutrals and mixing textures (I don't think I have the finesse down though). I have tried adding color in but most tend to bug me - I must have tried 30 different curtains/colors - no lie - and ended up with white. The only colors I have not had an aversion to are light apricot (like the flowers on the dining table) and light shades of blue or turquoise.

My problem is I am now stuck and need advice to finish the space working with what I have (keeping furniture, etc)...especially I need help with what I should put on either side of the fireplace w/ the TV mounted above it (no, that can't change/move either). I am currently expecting a baby so anything expensive - like built ins or any type of construction is out of the question for the next year or two but I need to do something.

Please help!

Featured Answer

abbyjean

12 years ago

last modified: 12 years ago

Congrats on that new lil baby coming AND on the job you have done in your home! I love it!

I am not sure you want much by the fireplace with a tv there as it becomes too much on the wall. You have plenty with the floating shelves there. The items on the hearth are too small and I am hoping you can find a way to layer the lantern on the shelves behind the couch. Will it fit there?

I would center the brown cabinet on the wall next to the fireplace and see what that taller item on the hearth looks like ON that cabinet. It will add some height, but not compete with the tv.

Angle the corner chair to match the angle of the other chair. What a pretty grouping there and love that lamp!!! The lamp actually becomes part of the wall there, too, and more there will not work with the lamp.

Find pillows in those favorite colors to put on the sectional......it needs more color on it and the colors you love will work perfectly!!!

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Comments (8)

PRO
essentials inside
12 years ago
Hi Melanie! Your house is beautiful!

How about stacking some pictures on either side of the fireplace?
https://www.houzz.com/photos/2012-parade-of-homes-traditional-living-room-new-york-phvw-vp~1501556

I'm sure other Houzzers have some tricks but you could use some cheap poster paper & painters tape to play with sizes and placement before buying anything or framing family pics.

You could use some the pics you have on the shelves over the couch. If you don't want to do that, I would recommend lowering those shelves as they appear a little too high from your photos here.

Is there any way to reconfigure the furniture? I'm guessing you probably tried already?

~Lyvonne
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Melanie Stinson
Original Author
12 years ago
last modified: 12 years ago
Thanks! Both great suggestions. The lantern is too big for the shelves and I am afraid those suckers are mounted to the wall with some pretty serious screws so moving them would ultimately result in repairs. I made the shelves myself based on the Ana White/Shanty 2 chic plans. I am going to head to Home Goods and Pier1 today to see what I can find. I also need a little tray (probably black) for the ottoman so I have a place to set down my drink. :)
abbyjean
12 years ago
last modified: 12 years ago
I am impressed.......made those shelves! May I suggest overlapping some of the pics there instead of lining them up? I love floating shelves like this in a room and a new baby will love being featured there, too!
abbyjean
12 years ago
Yes, do do need a place to set down cups/glasses. One other thought......moving the cabinet to between the chairs and that round table over to the end of the sectional.
María Paula C
12 years ago
just saw this, youre using the colors id like for my new house and this room desperately needed mouldings between walls and ceiling! theyre cheap and a huge change... sorry if its too late
PRO
Devra Wygant
12 years ago
You already have way too much furniture in this small space. Once your baby comes, you're going to have even more stuff---think toys, books, etc. If you are looking for a quick fix, just wait. Spending money to redo it within 2 years makes no sense at all. Do your husband a favor and quit wasting his money. Instead start a "custom built-in" fund and start saving money so in 2 years you're family room will look like a million bucks! 2 years goes by so fast---esp. when you have children. Moms always say it goes by so fast bc it does! Your colors and design philosophy look amazing---you definitely have a talent. But now you have to be patient to get what you really want! Best.
abbyjean
12 years ago
The baby has been born......rather an old thread.