Design Direction

April 28, 2010 · Posted in Design Direction, Living room design ideas, Living room furniture

Do you have a challenging space or need some design guidance? Design Direction is a chance for you to submit photos or videos of your design challenge(s) and a Vastu interior designer will provide you with some help. Every Wednesday we will feature one reader’s submission.

“Hello Designers! I’ve purchased my first home and when I bought it my friends and I saw SO much potential in it. Problem is, we’re not really sure how to tap into my home’s potential so… I need your help. Here’s some pictures of my den. I don’t even know where to begin… What do you suggest I should do with the space that won’t cost a fortune?”

Jamie says…

Your den does have lots of potential! My first recommendations are about the walls and fireplace. I have come up with two options depending on your budget. Option #1 – Remove the wood paneling. If you like the idea of texture on the walls, then I think a great way to reintroduce texture once the paneling is gone would be to use textured wallpaper on the walls. If removing the paneling isn’t a project you’ve currently got the budget for – no problem. Option #2 – Keep the paneling and paint the fireplace. Paint it a dark color, like charcoal grey or chocolate brown, to create more contrast between the color of the paneling and the color of the fireplace. Then paint the mantel a light version of the color you choose for the fireplace. The key is to bring more dimension into the room in terms of color.

As for the windows in the room, I suggest replacing the existing window panels with panels that skim the floor. This will add a little more drama and height to the room. I’d also consider replacing the wood cornice with a simple, clean-line iron/metal rod. If the cornices are hiding something, I’d recommend getting an upholstered cornice to add additional textures to the room, again, creating dimension.

Other things you may want to consider:

- Keep the fireplace the focal point of the room by centering a seating group in front of it. Consider doing four lounge chairs around an upholstered ottoman on an area rug. It will encourage conversation and by doing an upholstered ottoman guests can feel free to throw their feet up and relax.

- Replace the existing fan with a fan that has a simpler design. One that accents the room and doesn’t serve as a focal point.

- Consider placing a large scale desk unit between your two windows. It’s a great place in the room to put it and you can take advantage of your view!