As y’all might imagine, I have the privilege of walking through countless homes every year, in-person and virtually. Whether we are called in for an initial consultation or hired for a full-service revamp, touring the space and getting the “lay of the land” is a crucial part of each design service that we offer.
Throughout these walk-throughs and in conversations with our clients, we always notice when themes emerge… and can you guess the biggest goal on our clients’ wishlists?
The desire to transform or repurpose an underutilized space!
We all seem to want our spaces to work better for us, am I right?! The truth is that the majority of our clients usually have the physical space for the type of room they would love to have, but they have a hard time envisioning the space’s potential — and that’s where I come in!
The space I’m sharing with you today is a perfect example of this… not to mention completely inspiring if you’re stuck at home right now and dreaming of some updates!
So what do you think? Are you ready for a bright and function-packed transformation?? Then keep reading, y’all!
Before: An Underutilized Space Full of Potential
Our client (let’s call her Lisa!) called us to look at this room located off the entryway in her home. They had just moved in and wanted to finish the space. It was dark, under-furnished, and trying to function as everything to everyone. It needed a defined purpose and some love!
Before: Multi-purpose space with loads of potential. And would y’all look at that gorgeous window?!
The Vision
Lisa wanted the room to provide a simple, warm place to sit and read, along with a comfortable space to entertain family and friends. We walked into this space with its stunning, nearly floor-to-ceiling arched window, the dramatic vaulted ceiling, and those gorgeous built-in bookshelves. Basically a designer’s dream! All this space needed was a little love.
The Design Concept
Every great final design starts with an initial concept! We opted for a neutral color palette...nothing overpowering, just simple, bright and calm. Lisa told me she wanted simple patterns (nothing too bold), some classic style, and a touch of farmhouse.
Y’all know that’s my perfect recipe for a gorgeous and fresh interior!! Let’s see how it turned out…
After: A Fresh & Elegant Sitting Room
After: Fresh and peaceful sitting room
Ahhhhh…. now that’s a breath of fresh air!!
I started our design with a “circle this” seating concept. Lisa wanted swivel chairs in the space for easy conversation, so we included two swivel chairs and two wingback chairs. Incorporating these different chair styles added some height and dimension to the room as well.
Lisa already had some artwork they loved, and the crashing waves in the framed images were great for the space. The lighter wall color really allowed the natural blue hues toPOP.
We removed some books from the built-in shelves (don’t worry, they found another home!), because we wanted to use the open shelves as a curated display that would make the space feel more open and inviting.
Another personal touch — Lisa’s husband is a hunter, and as you can imagine, that is pretty big down here in the South, so we integrated antlers into the design as well. We didn’t go overboard, but we did tuck them into the design here and there. Instead of standing out, they blend really well into the neutral color scheme and add a grounding, natural element to the space!
We brought in additional texture through the use of oversized blankets in baskets (readily available for curling up with a good book), a variety of throw pillows, wooden accent furniture, and cozy lamps. These elements not only make the space look incredibly inviting, but they also serve to keep friends, family, and guests comfortable when they come to visit.
By adding greenery throughout the room and really showcasing natural wood grain finishes in some of our accent pieces, we brought the outdoors into this living room.
And that’s the full tour! So what do you think? What is your favorite design element in this space? I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
I loved transforming this room into something our clients are not only proud to host others in, but is a place to relax on their very busy days (or when confined to their home during the quarantine!).
If you also have a space that just isn’t living up to its potential, I would love to show you how we can help you love your home again. Give us a call and we’ll make your underutilized room a place you’ll enjoy for years to come!!
Sending love from GA,
Sarah