Room for Improvement #3

A stylish room will never look like a box

This could be a really stunning room by taking advantage of the accent wall at the back and rearranging the furniture.

This living room lacks cohesion. Why is the TV all the way across the room? (It’s mounted on the wall above the console peeking in from the right corner of the photo.) If that’s the best spot for it—and I don’t see why, since it is positioned directly adjacent to a hallway—then bring the seating arrangement closer to it. Otherwise, I would consider creating a TV area on the opposite side.

One idea for a blank wall: Add a bank of built-in shelves and cabinets. (Photo: Houzz)

Use the accent wall for cabinetry and frame the TV on the left with comfortable seating. (Photo: Houzz)

Many people hesitate to “break up” an open room by floating furniture across a section or down the middle. The fear is particularly present in smaller homes. But really, what do we need a bunch of empty space for? It conveys the idea that no one lives there. Look at the sitting area in the original photo, then look at this one below.

This farmhouse-style room might not be to your taste, but I think the seating and TV wall are designed really well. This could be imitated in the room we’re examining. (Photo: Houzz)

You want to connect people and activities within a defined area and that sometimes means you will not use the entire room. An antique display cabinet, bookshelf, or various artwork above the console would be better in the original room.

Electric fireplace inserts provide visual interest and the warm feel of a traditional wood-burning hearth. Combining a fireplace with built-ins on one side would create cohesion in the living room. (Photo: Houzz)

Bay Window Bonus

One of the best elements of this original living room is the expansive bay window with built-in seat. The drapes are decent and the room benefits greatly from all of the natural light coming in.

But it feels like a missed opportunity not to play up the large window bay for reading or as extra seating for guests. Like this:

This configuration creates a 3-person bench in the bay, with furniture arranged around it to create a conversation area. (Photo: Houzz)

Some other suggestions for the original room would be a different area rug and ceiling fixture. Also, let’s add more color and texture with pillows, artwork, decorative pottery and sculpture, and interesting side tables.

In this new year, continue looking at your living spaces with a fresh eye to comfort, intimacy, and cohesion.