Welcome to the heart of the 51st Street home – the living room, where cherished memories are made and families gather to unwind. Today, I'm thrilled to take you on a journey through the transformation of a living space that seamlessly blends functionality with effortless style, catering to the needs of a modern family.
We started working with this client in 2017, when the renovation project began. Over the past seven years, we have helped them make all the selections for the build as well as design and decorate many spaces.
Check out the blog posts on the following spaces:
When our client approached us, she had a vision of creating a space that not only reflected her family's lifestyle but also served as a playroom for her kids. Recognizing the importance of waiting until her little ones were a bit older, we embraced the opportunity to reimagine the living room with practicality and elegance in mind. We were so excited to dive in when the time was right. This sophisticated space is able to meet the needs of the adults and kids. That's the dream, right?
Since this was one of last rooms we designed, the living room was once a mismatched collection of furniture and decor. Our goal was to change that. By curating a cohesive design that complemented the rest of the house, we transformed the space into a harmonious sanctuary that exudes warmth and sophistication.
The living room truly comes to life, thanks to its standout features like the imposing black doors and the striking contrast between the cool gray chairs and the warm beige sectional sofa. This clever interplay of light and color not only adds depth but also infuses the space with a sense of visual intrigue.
The cool gray chairs, with their sleek and modern design, inject a contemporary edge that beautifully offsets the inviting coziness of the beige sectional. Their understated elegance serves as a striking contrast, ensuring that the room remains visually dynamic and engaging.
In contrast, the warm beige sectional exudes comfort and relaxation, acting as a versatile anchor for the vibrant blues and cool grays to pop against. This harmonious blend of contrasting elements creates a layered and inviting atmosphere in the living room, where modern sophistication seamlessly melds with cozy comfort.
From the dramatic presence of the black doors to the thoughtful juxtaposition of hues and textures, every detail contributes to the creation of a space that is as visually captivating as it is inviting.
My favorite part of this space? It's undoubtedly the multifunctional custom console table, coupled with swivel ottomans. Its versatility is unparalleled – whether adorned with decor, stocked with work-from-home essentials, or serving as a convenient spot for after-school snacks, this area seamlessly caters to both kids and adults alike.
This ingenious piece isn't just about practicality; it's about fostering moments of joy and togetherness. Beyond providing additional seating, it transforms into a playful haven for the kids, doubling as a cherished play area. It's a feature beloved by the entire family, embodying the essence of modern living where functionality meets fun.
This is your reminder to think outside the box and repurpose the furniture pieces without being limited by their original intention!
In our client's home, blue hues were already a consistent theme throughout various rooms. We wanted the living room to feel like a natural extension of this cohesive design. So, drawing from this existing palette, we carefully curated a range of blues, from soft and serene tones to bold and striking shades.
We incorporated these blues in various elements throughout the living room, from subtle accents in throw pillows and artwork to more prominent features like the area rug or accent chair. Each touch of blue was chosen not just for its visual appeal, but also for its ability to evoke feelings of serenity and calmness, creating a tranquil oasis within the home.
By tying in the blue tones from other areas of the house, we ensured that the living room seamlessly blended with the rest of the home's design. This approach not only simplified the decision-making process but also created a sense of cohesion and unity throughout the entire space, making it feel inviting, elegant, and effortlessly chic.
In addition to the other captivating features, let's not overlook the stunning shelves flanking the fireplace. These shelves and the wallpaper inside hold a special significance as they are from the original renovation, showcasing a beautiful blend of the old and the new. By restyling the shelves, we've transformed them into a focal point that perfectly encapsulates the essence of the design.
With their timeless design and contemporary styling, these shelves effortlessly blend classic elements with modern sensibilities, creating a captivating visual harmony. Whether showcasing treasured mementos, beloved books, or striking decor pieces, they add depth and sophistication to the living room, inviting admiration from all who enter.
As we wrap up our exploration of this captivating living room transformation, I invite you to take inspiration from the seamless integration of old and new in this space. Embrace the potential of your own home to tell a story that reflects your unique style and personality. From cherished memories to contemporary flair, let your imagination guide you in creating a space that truly feels like home.
So, as you embark on your own design adventure, remember that your home is more than just a collection of furniture – it's a canvas waiting to be adorned with your unique style and personality. Whether you're drawn to vibrant hues or subtle neutrals, bold statements or understated elegance, let your imagination soar and your creativity shine.
We'd love to hear from you! What's your favorite aspect of this living room transformation? Is it the striking contrast of colors, the multifunctional furniture pieces, or perhaps something else that caught your eye? Share your thoughts and inspirations in the comments below – we can't wait to hear from you!
Photographer: John Woodcock
