More help needed in this living room.

12 years ago

This is our living room. Its the first thing you see as you walk in to our home. We painted the walls a creamy yellow and the back wall is a mustard color. I need help with window treatments, I would LOVE to get some gold chevron or other modern print but not sure how it wold look. Design is NOT my thing. For now the furniture you see needs to stay. I can afford curtains but can't afford to replace the furniture. I would however like to get something to go on the wall next to/between the plaid chair and recliner (where the red table is)...Ideas?? Sorry for the dark picture of the window, the only light comes from the sun or two lamps in the corner. The A/C vent is right in the center of the room. :(

Featured Answer

Peg Prather

12 years ago

I think your furnishings are lovely. But I think the placement can be improved upon....and it's free!

Here are some things I'd suggest.

First, move the sofa over to the wall that has the small red table. Put the painting over it, only about 6 inches above the sofa.
Then, take the wood and fabric chair and put it in front of the window, on the left side of the sofa. Place the tall lamp between the sofa and this chair. If you have a table you can borrow from another room, it would nice to place it here, too.
Then, take the plaid chair and ottoman and put them on the opposite wall, to the right of the opening. Put the red table with the lamp to the left of that chair. Now you have a great "conversation area!"
I didn't answer your question about the window treatment. I think I would keep them in subtle colors! Similar to the wall colors. Since your rug is such a statement piece, I would get draperies that don't compete. You just want something that hangs on the sides of the windows, not covering the glass. Just something to warm up the space.
I hope I've helped. Good luck, I hope you post some after photos.

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Comments (55)

wallizgrl
Original Author
12 years ago
Like a pillow like this?

http://www.worldmarket.com/product/yellow+mindhi+lumbar+pillow.do?&from=fn
Libbmom
12 years ago
Per above...the plaid chair would be to the right of the opening...can you post pics of every wall in this room?
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Chem K
12 years ago
Simple drapes
Luxe Window Panel, Gold · More Info
leelee
12 years ago
last modified: 12 years ago
What a beautiful view--don't block it. Great windows, too. A little de-junking would go a long way ; )

That pass-thru is causing a problem but I'm not sure what to do about that. Lower your picture so that it's about 6 inches above the back of the sofa. It needs to be centered behind sofa.

Move the chair near the window in toward the other chair and let both chairs share the little table. Both need to be closer to the table--no gap between chairs and table--bigger space between chair and sofa. Give the plaid chair its ottoman back.

Can you make those changes and show pictures, please?

If you can afford a palm tree to put near the window that would look fabulous!
leelee
12 years ago
Don't call attention to the pass-thru--remove everything from that ledge--keep it open and don't use it as a shelf.
leelee
12 years ago
Instead of curtains spend your money on a coffee table. You could probably find one at a flea market. That would be useful and cozy up your room.
wallizgrl
Original Author
12 years ago
Ok, here is the new arrangement. I've got to admit, I didn't think I would like the couch there but it does cozy it up. I HATE the pass-throughs, and not sure what we can do about them, outside of remodeling. The blue chair doesn't have to stay but it is where my 90 year old grandmother sits when she comes to visit. But I can drag it to the back room and bring it out when she comes. So, do I need to pull the rug towards the window to center the couch on it? And if I move the blue chair out, which I can, what should I but under that window/pass-through thing?
Libbmom
12 years ago
Wow....did not know you had 2 pass throughs...I think this looks better...however, I would center the sofa on the wall as well as place rug so that it is centered with the sofa. I would put the tall lamp on the left hand side of the sofa. I would put the smaller end table on the right hand side of the sofa...Put one chair in the center of one pass through and another chair in the center of the other pass through...place the larger end table in the center of the wall, maybe long ways, between the pass through with the smaller lamp. Take out the other chair until Gram's come over to visit. Hang largest art over the sofa, but not as high as you had it before. Find a piece of art for the wall between the pass through...and it you have another lamp for the end table beside sofa also...if the table beside the TV is larger than the smallest end table, use that beside sofa instead...Drapery panels would be nice.
wallizgrl thanked Libbmom
Libbmom
12 years ago
If you really don't like the pass through and cannot close in at this time...maybe hand bamboo shades in them...also...need to find a good home for the clock...
groveraxle
12 years ago
wallizgrl, eliminating the pass-throughs is a diy. The hardest part is getting the sheetrock home from the big box store, but sometimes you can buy it by the half sheet, or they might cut it for you so you can get it in your SUV (if you have or can borrow one). 2x4s, sheetrock, hammer and nails, joint compound, taping knife; you can close those in for way less than $100.
wallizgrl thanked groveraxle
wallizgrl
Original Author
12 years ago
Yes Libbmom, I have NO idea why the previous (I think renters) did that second unfinished pass through. The finished one is ok, because at least it opens up my kitchen a little and I can see my lovely front window/yard, but they other one I can't figure out. I was thinking of putting curtains up over that one to at least hide it. I do have a friend that is a contractor, might need to bite the bullet and have him come cover that second one up. We will see.
wallizgrl
Original Author
12 years ago
I moved the two chairs, have been gone all day so haven't gotten a chance to move the couch, but what about something like this between the two pass-throughs?

http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/20213312/
groveraxle
12 years ago
That shelf from Ikea is too wimpy. First declutter the space. Arrange your two chairs and table as shown below. Get art from Ikea. I chose these two because they were large enough and did not mimic the shape of the kitchen pass-through.

Ask your contractor friend for tips on closing up the other pass-through and see if he'll bring you a piece of drywall on one of his runs. Really, it's easy--I've done it bunches of times--and you'll wonder why you waited so long.
Libbmom
12 years ago
I would put a table between the 2 chairs so you will have a place to sit a drink etc...
wallizgrl
Original Author
12 years ago
Does anyone see any place I could put a bookshelf? I have a few books I would like to get up off the tables. Also, that lighter colored chair is actually a recliner so not sure I want it flat up against the wall. I will keep working on it. I would love a book shelf to put some decorations/books on. Thanks for your input!!
Libbmom
12 years ago
Groveraxle...I think she wants to close up the one on the left...she likes the one that goes into the kitchen...

Wallizgirl...what is the room behind the pass thru on the left?
wallizgrl
Original Author
12 years ago
Right now its my GIANT pantry. :) I keep extra dishes/bake-ware in there, my craft supplies, and bulk food stuff.
wallizgrl
Original Author
12 years ago
And you were correct Libbmom if anything gets filled it would be the un-framed pass through. I do enjoy the view from the kitchen, even though the pass through is odd. :)
Libbmom
12 years ago
Ok...thought if it were dining area that maybe you could completely open up...
mariaed
12 years ago
last modified: 12 years ago
Is there a bar mid way up the kitchen pass through? Is there glass in that pass through window?

With three chairs there doesn't seem to be the space for a bookcase. Unless perhaps the wall opposite the front door in the foyer part, but I can't tell from the pictures whether that would make it hard to come in the door and head to the room on the right (ie how narrow that area is.)
wallizgrl
Original Author
12 years ago
Mariaed, no there is no glass and no bar its just a wall on the other side. The blue chair is moving out of the room. I will take more pictures tomorrow, once I get the couch centered and a few pics with the chairs in ways that have been suggested. But as of right now the openings are gonna have to stay and be worked around.
groveraxle
12 years ago
Oops. My bad. But see how easy it is to drywall that thing up?
wallizgrl thanked groveraxle
User
12 years ago
Open up the 2 pass throughs to the living room and add some counter stools.
wallizgrl
Original Author
12 years ago
2eileen, there is no where to put counter stools. The other side of these walls just enters a room. Are you saying stools in living room?
User
12 years ago
yes, like an open concept kitchen/living room. lots of pictures on Houzz
mariaed
12 years ago
if there is no glass, what is the horizontal bar 2/3rds up the window to the kitchen?
look forward to seeing the pics with the couch centered and minus a chair.
PRO
User
12 years ago
drywall both of those openings. if not now then, remove the wood frame from right one so they both match. move the art/pics you have on wall you see when you walk in. they are much to high, google grouping framed art. use that cool rug you have hanging on entry to block out one of the pass thru...just thought of that. the rug and the plaid are having a fight, so get rid of the plaid chair and leave in grandma's chair, it goes better with the carpet. you need a coffee table. yard sale time, or consignment shop!
wallizgrl thanked User
wallizgrl
Original Author
12 years ago
Thank you flair lighting. My mom actually suggested putting that wall hanging in that opening too. Not sure how high I should hang those pictures as you walk in, as our ceilings are only about 7.5 feet high. :( I was considering trying to cover the plaid chair and ottoman in a lighter canvas type slip cover. I need a coffee table but was thinking more like a large ottoman, as I am worried a regular table would just be a catch all for everything!!
PRO
User
12 years ago
well if you move the rug there, be sure to put something on side of the wall too. light leak would make it obvi that you are covering up something. start the art at eye level. you can google "hanging groups of framed art" or something like that and get tips there. and yes please re cover that chair. it will help you so much! and see about getting rid of the wood in the other pass through! you do know dry wall is the best solution right?!
PRO
Artworks
12 years ago
A large colorful abstract print might work in here?
PRO
User
12 years ago
add some curtains and maybe a table in front window maybe even a chair. and lamp..
Nancy Travisinteriors
12 years ago
Move both chairs to in front of window with that table between them. With a lamp on it. On end of sofa where chair was, add a end table with a tall lamp. Lower picture so it's 7" above top of sofa. Put floor lamp on other side of sofa. Get a coffee table either glass or dark wood round 24" add pillows in prints. On windows go a color a shade darker than walls could go a chevon. Or Greek key. Use that in pillows . Ikea has a 6ft floor mirror in a wide dark frame. Not expensive. Put on wall where chair and table was. Center and lean on wall. On windows just put panels on ends on a stainless rod. You can use rings on top, Lowes sells. Have you thought of opening that whole wall up. Where pass though is. Just continue across wall about 7-10" pass sofa. Would let in light. Or us that a pass though? Can't do if cabinets n other side.
wallizgrl thanked Nancy Travisinteriors
Nancy Travisinteriors
12 years ago
When you can get a lighter rug a shag would work. The dark brown isn't working. Also recover the ottoman in a red design. And slip cover chair in a off white. Plaid not working. Burlington cost factory has deals.
wallizgrl thanked Nancy Travisinteriors
wallizgrl
Original Author
12 years ago
Travisinterior, thanks for the ideas. Why do you say the brown rug isn't working? I don't LOVE it but not going to spend loads of time and money to build around it if I am going to change it out. I love the Greek key or chevron idea for the curtains but you and I seem to be the only ones that agree. We did move the couch to the wall that is next to the window and so far I am liking it. Maybe not the best but we will see.
As for the pass throughs, they are in two separate rooms, but nothing above or below them, just not sure budget would allow us to open it all up right now. But I like that idea for the future. Also not sure how long we plan to stay in this house so don't want to invest tons of money if its not a huge selling/sticking point. And would probably just rent this out or hold it long term so...
This is NOT at all the room I envisioned here, but once we moved in we realized that the yard was mostly sand and oak leaves and with the kids in and out all day, the light colors I was envisioning weren't going to work. :P
Thanks again!
wallizgrl
Original Author
12 years ago
Ok here is an update sorry it took so long. We purchased a lighter colored chair and coffee table, although I think the coffee table is too big/heavy for the space. I would love to add padding and fabric to the top and make it an ottoman, it has drawers on the side facing the couch. Thinking of making curtains out of the fabric on the couch, replacing rug with lighter one. Please don't speak to the openings in the wall as patching them is not an option right now...especially the one to the kitchen. It would close my already small kitchen up too much. Also still need an idea for a book case, possibly between openings?? I have some photo albums and special books/things I want to display. Thanks!!
PRO
Warner Decor
12 years ago
Hi! Here are a few bookcases that may work for you:

http://deciture.com/shop/furniture/world-market/espresso-charles-slanted-bookshelf/

http://deciture.com/shop/furniture/world-market/antiqued-black-tall-easton-bookshelf/

http://deciture.com/shop/furniture/world-market/antique-black-verona-six-shelf-bookcase/

Hope this helps!
wallizgrl thanked Warner Decor
wallizgrl
Original Author
12 years ago
Thanks!! I LOVE the second two. Those are exactly what I had in mind.
PRO
User
12 years ago
i think you should pull the couch off the wall just to the start of the window, and flank either side with a chair, move the third chair in a bit, and put a table behind the couch with lamps and then hang art.
wallizgrl thanked User
PRO
User
12 years ago
i think it will help take the length out of the room
Geneviève
12 years ago
last modified: 12 years ago
I don't know what the rest of you think about that pass trough:) but here is my take on it , I would have glass shelves installed in it or leave it free and have this sort of design
Chapel Grove Model Home · More Info

Modern living · More Info

Modern Geometric Pattern Red /Orange Wool Tufted Rug - BL25, 3.6x5.6 · More Info
wallizgrl thanked Geneviève
Geneviève
12 years ago
Also if you could paint the whole room one colour it would look better, I really don't think that there is a need for a feature wall .
wallizgrl
Original Author
12 years ago
The couch was in front of that wall at first. We had it positioned to look out the window.
Libbmom
12 years ago
Move the table to the center of the wall between the two openings and move chairs accordingly. I would put the smaller of the two chairs on the left.
wallizgrl thanked Libbmom
wallizgrl
Original Author
11 years ago
last modified: 11 years ago

Ok I've finally got around to getting this room more to my liking before y'all get on me about the stuff on the wall behind the TV, I am wanting to mount the TV therefore I'll rearrange after the TV gets mounted. Would love your ideas for coffee table/ottoman and shelves. The old ugly black bookshelf needs to be replaced and I'm thinking the recliner (brown chair) needs to find a new home. Also, that chair with the pink cushion doesn't belong in there...oops. Oh and when budget allows at least that opening (that's not framed) will be closed up.
decoenthusiaste
11 years ago
Hate to harp on about the openings, but have you ever considered installing a skylight in the kitchen? My friend did so and Wow! What a lot of light it brought in! Save up for it - well worth the money.
wallizgrl thanked decoenthusiaste
keencher
11 years ago
I like what you have done so far. Looking good !!
wallizgrl thanked keencher
groveraxle
11 years ago
Excellent, so far. But when you rearrange the TV wall, you need some bigger stuff. Everything on that wall now is exactly the same size. I suggest a couple of larger pieces so you can get some movement and energy on that wall.

I love all your new furniture, and your curtains are the bomb. You need to bring some of those curtain colors around the room, onto the art wall, in pillows on the couch.

Now, on the pony wall by the entry, I'd rather see a single piece of furniture than separate chest and bookcase. You really need a single level surface there along the whole wall.
groveraxle
11 years ago
This is Crate and Barrel's Rojo cabinet; they also have one in black called Noche. It has glass doors so your books would show through. Or you could look for something similar on craigslist and paint it.

I didn't hang your TV, but when you do, hang it just a bit higher than the console, 6" inches or so. Then do groupings of photos on either side.
wallizgrl thanked groveraxle
wallizgrl
Original Author
11 years ago
last modified: 11 years ago
I LOVE that red hutch thing. And I'm all for DIYing something. That chest thing is actually a cast iron fireplace that isn't in working condition, right now it's got battery operated candles in it but needs some greenery in there to fill. Maybe it will just get moved out for now. The current pillows are shades of grey with one red chevron one. And I love what you did with the TV wall too. I want a bigger "W" too. Thanks groveraxle!
happyleg
11 years ago
You will need a lamp after phony wall is no longer.