Fix My Room: Open Plan Living Room Edition

In this edition of the Fix My Room series, I share a one-on-one coaching call with Charlotte, we discuss how to blend her style with the house's current rustic design. We explored furniture arrangement in her large, open living area and kitchen, and tackled her concerns about a big blank wall, appropriate rug size, and making better use of a wood stove. We examine multiple layout options for her brown leather and pink velvet sofas, consider different seating arrangements, and discuss lighting and wall decor to create distinct, functional areas for TV watching, relaxation by the fire, and game nights with friends. We also discussed painting the wood trim and incorporating her black-and-white artwork and shelves filled with books and plants to enhance the room's personality and character. 

Watch this entire episode on YouTube HERE

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Welcome to another edition of the Slow Style Home Podcast, where today I’m excited to share insights from a coaching call with Charlotte. Our discussion centered around a unique decorating challenge: how to arrange furniture in a spacious, open living area while integrating her cherished sophisticated pieces into a home with distinctly rustic elements.

Introduction to Charlotte's Home

Charlotte recently moved into a house rich with rustic charm from the 1970s, complete with original wood paneling and an array of wood features that define its style. Her challenge lay in harmonizing this rustic foundation with her personal preference for clean lines and sophisticated finishes. With the abundance of wood, she felt hesitant to make irreversible design choices that might not reflect her desired aesthetic.

Concerns About Functionality and Style

One of Charlotte's primary concerns was how to make her living space functional and inviting, given its large, open layout. The room needed to accommodate various activities like TV watching, yoga, and social gatherings without losing its cohesiveness. She was particularly unsure about how to furnish a large blank wall and whether her current rug was appropriately sized for the room.

To tackle these issues, I proposed visual zoning instead of physical partitions. By rotating the brown leather sofa to face the back wall, we could create a defined TV viewing area that integrated well into the open plan. This arrangement would use the large blank wall more effectively, adding personality and style with the help of frames or shelving.

Reimagining Room Layout for Flexibility

For Charlotte’s frequent game nights, we discussed more permanent furniture arrangements to avoid repeatedly moving the pink tufted sofa and tables. By forming distinct zones through strategic placement of furniture and decor, the space could better serve its multifunctional purpose.

Enhancing the Large Wall with Shelving

Addressing the large wall, I suggested using bookshelves to display Charlotte's collection of books and decor, bringing in her sophisticated style while working with the rustic elements. Additional lighting options and flexible seating such as floor pillows or ottomans were also recommended to enhance functionality and create a moodier, more intimate atmosphere.

Harmonizing Modern Elegance with Rustic Charm

I encouraged Charlotte to consider the complementary potential of her home's rustic elements. Painting trims and doors could provide a subtle contrast, softening the rustic tones while highlighting her preferred chic aesthetics. Through these discussions, we explored a blend of modern elegance and rustic charm that would align with Charlotte's vision for her home.

Achieving a Balance

In our discussions, we explored a variety of strategies to harmonize Charlotte's rustic home with her modern style preferences. By focusing on visual zoning and purposeful furniture arrangement, we aimed to create clearly defined spaces that cater to multiple functions. 

Through this process, we aimed to help Charlotte see the potential in her living space, encouraging a thoughtful blending of styles that resonates with her vision. By reimagining her space with creativity and purpose, Charlotte is poised to turn her rustic yet modern home into an inviting sanctuary uniquely reflective of her tastes and lifestyle.

I hope this episode inspires you to see the possibilities within your own home, whether you’re balancing styles, repurposing furniture, or redefining spaces. As always, I’m here to guide you on your journey to a home that reflects you and your needs. 

Until Next Time

-Zandra