Decorating Woes - Living Room

11 years ago

Happy 2013!
I’m not sure who reads this, but I could use help accessorizing my living room. Looking for more wow factor... For starters, I would like to keep most of my items, but add on.

I “Desperately” need something over the sofa… and it’s a very large wall. Currently have HD Silhouettes on order for the windows and re-doing pictures on the mantel. However, I don’t think I have a color scheme, hence why I’m struggling with artwork and the other small details.

The walls are BM Kangaroo, with white ceilings and trim.
All comments appreciated. Thanks in advance.

Cheers, MJ

Featured Answer

PRO

Interiors International, Inc.

11 years ago

Buy a large original painting. Spend your money on that first. Good art that you love is the most important thing in your home besides a place to sit. Add pieces after that. The inexpensive things you add will look better because of the painting.

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Comments (45)

jaworma
Original Author
11 years ago
I did mention the wall over the sofa is large, it's a lofted area.
decoenthusiaste
11 years ago
Start with a new, less linear, much larger, rug and window treatments (stationary panels over fabric romans.) Since you have art ordered already and have some hung which appears to be mostly black & white, I would be adding color and pattern. The FP is your focal point. If I were arranging the room, I'd put the sofa, tables and lamps in front of the window, the TV above the mantel, the chair and TV credenza on the long wall with the chair angled to face the FP. Hang your new art pieces on that same big wall - maybe stacked vertically above the credenza for some height. Right now the low pieces are drawing a line around the room so something besides the FP needs to draw a vertical line. If you decide to do some purchasing in the future, I would replace the coffee table and chair with something more in the style of your sofa and tables, with a softer line. Or, if you're looking for a more masculine vibe, then replace the tables and sofa with something more like the chair and coffee.
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Thank you everyone for your great ideas! Actually, the room is not as dark as you think - the window is east facing, and we do get a good deal of sunshine through it... I think the pictures don't do the room justice. I do agree, dark furniture does make it seem very dull though. OK, here is what I am thinking at the moment... Unfortunately, the sofa does not fit quite right againt the opposite wall, neither does the love seat by the window (I've measured everything up and the sofas are of the wrong sizes). I'd like to replace the love seat with a couple of chairs (as the love seat is quite chunky, and does dominate the room as you walk in), but I can't justify spending the money on that just yet :( I am planning to buy a bigger rug (thank you for the suggestion, ren2513), I do love the white/cream as we have now, but will go for something with a bit more colour through it, and definitely replace the coffee table with a bright ottoman (thinking something along these lines at the moment http://www.marksandspencer.com/oval-button-footstool/p/p22344378001 colour Measham,Ochre)... And I'd like to move the existing rug behind the love seat. I'd also like to either match the wall paper or a few pictures on the wall to the ottoman (colour-wise) for some continuation. The ceiling lamp shade will be replaced with something a bit more original (this was fitted in a rush when we moved in, with no thought behind it!) All the speakers will go, as I don't think they look right in the room, and will be replaced with more descrete ones :) We are keen to replace the TV stand with Skovby TV unit and a display cabinet (in white oak), so a similar idea to what was suggested by Sauve :) thank you! Haven't decided on the 'behind the love seat' arrangement just yet. Thanks again for the suggestions everyone :)
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Have you considered a selection of shelves and art to make the tv less prominent? Wooden panelling is very popular now and would make a nice feature on a very plain wall. You could do a section from floor to ceiling and include shelves for displaying items. The tv could be mounted on the panelling.
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janishill
11 years ago
You have a lovely, calming space. The color scheme is neutral. You can pull a little more of the blue from the rug by painting the inside of your tray blue, using a blue flower pot and adding a blue throw to the left side of the sofa...but I like the soft neutrals just as they are.

The one thing I don't like is having the chair turned so it blocks the fireplace. I wonder if it could be placed at an angle, facing toward the sofa, on the corner of the rug?

To find inexpensive art work look here: http://www.allposters.com/

Hang drapery panels high and wide on each end of the windows. They need not be functional. See illustration. They will absorb sound and make the room look finished.

Add a few books (predominately blue) inside the media center and that's it.

Hope to see updates!
Arlen Dau
11 years ago
When in doubt, try a large, framed antique mirror from a reclaim building materials store. Stain the frame, if needed, to work with your furniture wood color, or leave it real. When you have other ideas, there is always a place for a mirror in some other place in the home.
PRO
Toni Sabatino
11 years ago
Interiors International, I couldn't agree more!
Natalie
11 years ago
Fantastic Space! Agree with janishill about all she mentioned, except I would add mushroom/mink/soft gray hues instead of blue.
Something cool, large, and graphic for behind the sofa. Have fun. Good Luck!
http://www.art.com/products/p13475730781-sa-i6458904/alex-cherry-cinnamon-girl.htm?sorig=cat&sorigid=0&dimvals=5264773&ui=8d77e20366de4d5f9804dde47682c5d1
User
11 years ago
You can find original art on Etsy.com It is a website with a collection of artisans from the US and all over the world. Just input what you would like in the search engine, such as photography Paris, Venice, Hawaii, Horse. High def photography is very uplifting. Almost as good as being there. Most of the shop owners can customize what you like by contacting them. I have a shop, nancyhehmann on Etsy.

If you want to invest more money go to Park West Galleries website, they have limited edition prints and originals from many artists and sometimes the value increases over time. Or if you take a cruise, there are art gallery reps on all cruises any more and you can purchase art at art shows. The art shows are fun.

You can also put the term "wall sculptures in the search engine on HOUZZ or etsy for a different look.

Bottom line, fall in love with something and I would avoid mass produced art like what you find at Bed Bath and Beyond.

Have fun and Happy New Year.
jaworma
Original Author
11 years ago
I’m leaning towards a piece of art vs. mirror over the sofa. What’s not shown in the pictures is… I have a large mirror on the same wall in the DR over a buffet. I rather avoid 2 mirrors on the same wall. Getting back to the art… either original, limited edition or something unique is preferred. It helps to get ideas from others because a large piece can be costly and I would be disappointed if it didn't work well. Thanks for suggesting some sites to browse.
groveraxle
11 years ago
Big. Bright. Bold.
Decorator Showcase Houses · More Info
jaworma
Original Author
11 years ago
As we discuss ideas for over the sofa… assuming a print or canvas, should the item be frame? I’ve been cutting and pasting items from the web into a photo using Powerpoint. Yes, I’m your typical guy… Need visual! I like Natalie’s comment for cool and graphic. I’ll try a few! Many of the items I’ve been evaluating didn’t look right with the linear rug. I may need to make some corrections.
groveraxle
11 years ago
Try this site for original art: http://www.saatchionline.com/buy-art/originals-for-sale

You can filter by every category imaginable. Most of the art is affordable; some you can get as giclee prints.
jaworma
Original Author
11 years ago
No one has commented on my wall color, but after seeing at my pics online, I now question my color choice (BM Kangaroo).

On a completely different topic, I’m new to this site. I’m not sure if I’m entering my comments in the correct spot. I see places called discussions, feed, activity. What’s the difference?
janishill
11 years ago
On my monitor the walls seem to have a grayish cast, but when I look at the BM site the color appears tanish.

This color may have more life to it: http://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/paint-color/smokyash without overwhelming the room

Just click on each link to discover all the fun you can have on Houzz! :-)
jaworma
Original Author
11 years ago
Kangaroo should be called camouflage… It changes color throughout the day based on lighting conditions.

Smoke Ash is beautiful, but I ‘m so afraid it may be too dark in the other rooms. In my mind, I feel the LR, DR and Loft need to be the same color as the wall flow into one another. I already have the foyer and hallways Powell Buff. Choices I made prior to seeing the entire ensemble. I’ll grab a sample next time I’m out.
PRO
Alexei Rebrov Art
11 years ago
last modified: 11 years ago
About framing the art.
If you decide to go with large print on aluminum there is no need for framing. It will look modern.
As alternative you can consider frames in same brown color as wood of the coffee table or modern style metal or molded frames. Depending on final art the result can great. The only issue with frames that for modern art they can cost more then the art itself :(
I have clients on both sides of the spectrum. Some prefer invest more in bigger sizes art and some prefer tailor the art work into interior design with mates and frames. It's an issue of budget and strategy of investment.
janishill
11 years ago
BM has a color called Cameleon that might work as well.
jaworma
Original Author
11 years ago
Yes, I’ve looking at the aluminum option… I realize that wouldn’t need a frame. In the links you provided, I assume the piece is made as one sheet and cut into multiple pieces if desired?
elcieg
11 years ago
last modified: 11 years ago
What if you gather up all those black and whites and put them over the sofa. There is a strawberry red color that goes perfectly with the kangaroo. (Look up kangaroo on the BM wedbsite). Paint an accent wall behind the sofa and use that color in fabrics.
Parsons Rectangular Coffee Table with Travertine Top | Crate&Barrel · More Info

Like your chair with the greek key back. Like your end tables and your lamps. DO NOT like the coffee table with the rest of your pieces. Too Pottery Barn.
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PRO
Alexei Rebrov Art
11 years ago
yes, design may consist of multiple prints made from one image. Alternative is to go with diptych or triptych, which essentially different images but relates by either color scheme or technique.
Last option is to make one solid print (the limit is 40x80" though)
jaworma
Original Author
11 years ago
Judyg,
I love the example you pointed out (B&W photos against red). In fact I saw that picture when I thought about an accent wall. The reason I steered away, the wall is just too large, plus it flows into 3 rooms and one can argue, the FP is the focal point. As for the coffee table. It’s one of the early pieces. I’m sure there’s something better for this space. Good comment! I'll keep my eyes open.
jaworma
Original Author
11 years ago
Hello again....Janishill & Natalie, you both mentioned adding blue or a soft grey/blue. Anyway. I also found the soft blue to be quite appealing. I’m adding this for feedback. Not sure on the subject, abstract with a striped rug? perhaps a no no… The piece is a bit smaller than expected, but I remind myself I may need to relocate at some point and this may be more workable on normal size wall in the future. See attached
michigammemom
11 years ago
jaworma, The art you added really completes the room. I like the neutral, monochromatic color scheme you've selected.
jaworma
Original Author
11 years ago
I also found this piece interesting. Similar colors, but more depth. Single picture vs a double? I'll sleep on it for now. Comments always welcome!
sharleeg
11 years ago
Nice space but a little bland for my taste. I would love to see an accent that pulls in the cinnamon/paprika of the FP brick, in the artwork and perhaps a throw on the sofa. More coppery tones as opposed to the bronzy tones in pillows currently. The lamps would have been a good place to add more contrast as well.Perhaps once you choose art, there will be a color in there you can pull out. I would reposition that chair to sit more diagonally on carpet and not block the FP. Best of luck!
feeny
11 years ago
I prefer the two pictures over the couch to the one, both in terms of placement and color/aesthetics.
jaworma
Original Author
11 years ago
Now that I'm viewing my space via the photos, I agree, it's a bit bland... I received a lot of great suggestions today and my mind is already in overload. In a good way!
jaworma
Original Author
11 years ago
The lamps get a lot of attention when I have company, but I loss the opportunity to bring in color. Just a thought... can anything be done with lamp shade to compliment or add contrast?
sharleeg
11 years ago
absolutely! Go to a lighting store or shop online for ideas! Good luck jaworma!
Carol Tackett
11 years ago
I am a quilter and use large spaces to display quilts. They have texture and color and any design you want.
Jayne Smith
11 years ago
Copper tones , can you fill your lamp bases with copper flowers or twigs ( sorry I don't know the correct terminology) or some grass that will bendand curl within! Move the checkered cushion and add copper tones with a light beige throw, add a window feature - voluptuous curtains collected to one side, instead of the little flower pot stand add a thin long sideboard to add length to the room with a few copper accents !

For above the sofa add a copper sculpture - it will brighten your original paint and warming the room !

I'm no interior designer but a girl can dream lol I'm a newbie too ! Stumbled upon this looking for quadruple bunk beds ! Xx
lindacolleen
11 years ago
Very nice starting place . I love natural , perhaps consider natural objects . For art consider reclaimed frames , aka flea market finds and press large leaves between glass . It's simple yet pleasing not to heavy. If your fortunate to live in warm climate you have access to large leaves , or visit florist or fakes from craft store . Pop color with throw pillows . I often go to pier 1 , pick up cool napkins and sew together makes cool quick pillow covers ( use no sew options) , make small unique shapes for interest . If you can fill your lamps up pick something vibrant , beads , Christmas ornaments to add interest . Just remember your favorite color in your closet is a nice accent to your home . It took me years to figure that out ! I but pops of color are a great and easy way to change your room to keep it fresh seasonally or per your mood . From your photo , teal , and yellow would be a nice pop in pillows or coffee table art . Have fun that's what it's all about .
Lesli Richardson
11 years ago
I would add something organic and reclaimed to breakup the straight lines in the room. A tree limb or shelves out of reclaimed worn wood.
Natalie
11 years ago
I like the two side by side prints---different matting though. Less cream/yellow. :)
janishill
11 years ago
As Natalie said ~ the twin prints with different mats.

Someoen mentioned adding a tree branch whihc is a great ide.

You could add a couple of ottomen under the window to bring in more color and to have for extra seating. I can see them in a soft solid blue/gray...and they would help absorb sound.
jaworma
Original Author
11 years ago
Brilliant! Adding ottomans is awesome. I’m considering the double abstract print as my baseline. I may need to find something similar if I tweak the mat color. This artwork is off the shelf, so-to-speak. In the spirit of branches… I’ll add this idea… Cherry Blossoms… It has the colors I find most appealing. Thoughts?
janishill
11 years ago
They look too heavy. The others have a wider mat which makes a difference and are more rectangular. Smaller prints, larger mats, rectangular shape would be the way to go.
PRO
Beautiful ideas
11 years ago
Too heavy something more colorful and sleek /stylish.
kathleen MK
11 years ago
You need some big bright artwork so check out local art shows, charity events and studio tours where emerging artists offer quality works.
Or be brave and paint your own abstract/ non-objective piece in you favorite colors.(I'd add some of the fireplace brick color.) Maybe a trio of canvasses with the sides painted so you don't need a frame. Change or cover the pillows to match the bright colors in the artwork.
Or keep the neutral color scheme with something black and white. With a couple cans of flat black spray paint and a bunch of junk you could create your own Louise Nevelson style sculpture.
You have designed a great back drop for almost any kind of artwork as long as it's large.
PRO
V Richards
11 years ago
Present room layout focuses on window - is there a nice garden view beyond during the day?- What do people look at when it becomes dark ?
Room looks cut in half , small - and it's far from that!

Make fireplace "and beyond" one focus.
Sofa on window wall - tables/lamps flanking it.
Armchair slightly in from doorway - but get another, or an otto-man, for more seating choices..
Wall next to doorway - ceiling to skirting fabric wall hanging with preferred colour accents - could it be the blue, as the stars on the mantle?

A new long coffee table - glass top, shelf unit and storage.

TV and TV unit date the room. Relocate it to another part of the house- perhaps a bedroom?

Where the sofa is now - a very long and tall unit housing not only "larger" screen TV, but everything to do with TV, music, consoles games, entertainment, movies, CDs, DVDs, , etc.etc.
- a true "central media centre"

This unit should be the second visually pleasing focal point of the room.

Won't need to worry about "what prints should I get?" for this wall - the unit is the "art"!

Bottom part unit - solid doors OR drawers to hideaway remotes, CDs, tapes, etc, etc.
Central part of unit - necessities for screen, media and gaming connections, foxtel, speakers etc.
Top part of unit - all glass sliding doors - dust free display for accent coloured treasured objects.
(This coloured display draws eyes upwards - be soothing, even when TV is off!)

Large size of unit diffuses/balances out very high loft wall.

Accent coloured pillows, throws on seats centrally relate to colours on fabric hanging/unit display.

The room beyond the fireplace - dining room?- paint the window wall in the living room accent colour - sense of relationship for the two rooms and to the overall space.

Go "hunting and gathering" ideas with the Houzz photo bank!
Do what everyone else does - see something you love - be a copycat!
jankiing
11 years ago
If you're on a budget (like many of us) you might think about making your own "art" for the large wall behind your sofa. Go to a large fabric store that sells home decor fabrics as well as apparel fabric. Find a fantastic print with an accent color that you love -- perhaps something brown and black with a small pop of red. Make your own frames (2' x 4-5' tall) out of straight 1"x2" furring lumber. First cover with muslin or sheeting by stapling it onto the back of the frames. Then the second layer would be your fantastic print. Three frames hung about a foot apart would accentuate the tall wall and allow you to "sprinkle" your new accent color around the room through a couple of pillows, a tray, a bit of color banding on the drapes, and something to draw the eye to the mantel. I'm moving into my new dream house in one month. It has 12' ceilings throughout, and I will be using some of my own advise to make it fill like home. Good luck.
PRO
Wallmark Custom Homes
11 years ago
You can always use a picture that you have taken and get it blown up and put on canvas. This can be an inexpensive way of adding your own unique art.
User
11 years ago
I don't think the space in bland, it is unfinished. You simply have the first layer complete and need to add some artwork and accessories
PRO
Arts at Denver Gallery
11 years ago
last modified: 11 years ago
A large horizontal painting would be beautiful. Pick something you love, not just something that "looks good with the furniture"!
della70
10 years ago
My favorite place to shop for art is at community and neighborhood fairs. Coming up in the spring... so you might want to wait till then. I am a big fan of supporting your local art community. The prices are good and you can see a variety of art in one place and find what you like to go over that sofa.