Home Theater

Soothing hues such as navy or charcoal gray, for example, can make a smaller space stylishly inviting. The trick in a small room is to balance a darker wall with lighter elements to create depth and brighten the room. For example, place a lighter-colored sofa against a dark wall. Layer with more light-colored furniture, shiny accessories and a pale rug.

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In this Minneapolis basement, R|House Design Build alleviated typical not-so-high basement ceilings by playing with proportions. The long firebox, fireplace surround, mantel and TV screen emphasize horizontal lines. A round tufted ottoman lets everyone sink into the sofa and put their feet up.

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