I’d like to share with you a recent installation that we did in the Frisco area a few months ago, where I incorporated a few ideas that fall just outside the box!
First, I’ll share with you what the room looked like when we started.
This is the completed room…a formal living/dining area that we design to be more comfortable, for more casual entertaining. Here are a few ideas we included that you may not have considered for your own home…
Shutters vs Fabric
After painting, we decided to install shutters instead of fabric window treatments. Although shutters are more costly, you are adding architectural interest to the structure itself. They are “wall art” and have more impact than simple panels. Plus they often help with resale value.
I Vote for NO Niche
How many of you have niches in your home? Oftentimes you will look high & low to find something perfect for that space…way more time than they’re worth! So what’s the alternative? Cover them up!…with art!
In this case, we used a set of canvases to enhance the angled walls.
Make sure to measure your niche so you know what size art to look for, and make sure the art extends at least 1/2″ on all sides.
A Wall of Mirrors
Another element that made a big difference in this space was the addition of mirrors. A wall of mirrors will make the room look larger and reflect all the pretty things. But the mirror that you choose will make a big difference…and especially the size. Two or three mirrors hung side-by-side on a large wall will create a big impact in almost any space. Use mirrors that are framed and make sure they are reflecting something pretty.
The Bar Cabinet
This room was designed to accommodate casual entertaining with friends, to enjoy a before-dinner drink or an after-diner port. So the bar cabinet makes this room functional and interactive for this client.
And that’s the idea I’m sharing with you… Oftentimes, the formal family rooms are never used. But if they serve a practical purpose, or have a specific function, we would use these rooms a lot more. If not a bar cabinet, you can fill it with board games for family nights. Or maybe a personal library with your want-to-read hardcovers.
Hope I’ve inspired!