During a 2 hour design consultation, we can often tackle two rooms. So after talking through the Family Room I shared in the last post, we moved on to the Living Room. I looked things over, made recommendations and left the Homeowner with a plan (and about a week later I sent her a Resource List to help narrow down her shopping search). She really ran with it. I was thrilled with the chance to come back and see the wonderful results. First off, let me show you the entry:

ideas for foyer, decorate, update decor, durham interior designers, decorating help

Many interior floor plans suffer from no separate foyer. So visitors walk right into a room, which can be a bit jarring to my delicate sensibilities. But with the simple addition of a mat at the door and a substantial plant atop a pedestal, a transition space has been created here. There's also a pretty desk over on the left (you can't see it, sorry), which adds to the welcoming vibe. And I want you to notice the beautiful drapery panels, which Talented Homeowner made herself.

living room, sitting room, front parlor, how to decorate bookshelves, how to update the living room, decorating ideas

As I turned to enter this freshly furnished Living Room, I first noticed those matching velvety soft club chairs, upholstered in a neutral fabric. What a nice choice. And the new wool rug, in a Tree Of Life pattern, is exquisite. I'm not exaggerating--my iPhone photo does not do it justice. It came from NOA Living, a wonderful rug and decor store in Raleigh.

bookshelves, custom shelving, interior design Raleigh, transitional design, updated traditional rooms

The custom built in bookcase is a showstopper. Previously it was a little haphazard and now it's thoughtfully arranged. It doesn't look like a store display--it looks like people who love books and travels and special mementos live here. The new sofa has a tight back, single seat cushion (never looks messy) and pretty legs. I'll bet you're wondering where the coffee table is - they didn't want one. Isn't that awesome? Now I love (and need) a coffee table to be happy. But these clients did what felt best to them. Fabulous!

lamps for living rooms, reading lamps, how to decorate a room for entertaining, Apex interior designer

Please don't ever forget to pay attention to lighting in a room. Great lighting makes a lovely room useful, friendly, warm and inviting. Go for 3 way switches, go for pretty lampshades, go for finials. Do it up right. These gourd lamps are perfect for the space. Talented Homeowner made the custom accent pillows in the room. They are squishy delights. The framed art on the wall are hung at eye level - perfect.

I'm so glad that my 2 hour design consultation gave this client the right amount of ideas and resources to go full steam ahead and make the changes she did. The other day she contacted me to report that she had used one of my suggestions in her daughter's apartment - the ripple effect! Great job!

Ciao,

Anne

Put these in your podcast library: