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You can buy a table topper to increase your table diameter to seat 8 comfortably when entertaining. Heartland Table Pads are great (I ordered a pad last year and was very pleased):
I’d avoid arms for easier access, only having four might be detrimental and a straw seat will have a shorter life span/perhaps uncomfortable.
I’d keep looking and measure how many will actually fit. Assume you are looking at second hand chairs, so don’t discount ones in which you don’t like the fabric. Easy to change and you’ll end up with chairs that could be perfect in the room.
Suggest instead, just changing to lighter/more complementary bedding.
Thenk you emily!!
Thank you everyone. i have decided to keep bed for now and change paper to lighter more neutral sand color. and change beddinng. will post pics when done
Given the height of the ”nightstand” and the headboard, suggest the shorter of the two.
Maybe consider not matching the chandelier, but tie in the bedding and (assume) eventual art. A bit more color will add more warmth.
^Agree 27” might be good. FWIW, our nightstands are 30” tall, and the lamps are 26” which works well for us. I wouldn’t want the lamps any shorter, and another inch taller would be fine.
Thanks everyone! I ordered both and they will arive in a few days. I will circle back when they do.
Have to get a rug, art, put together s vsnity…….step by step
The rug needs to ground the seating area and feel proportionate in room. Try taping out different sizes. I’d also look for a substantial coffee table that is easily accessible to everyone. Also…before you choose either, look on line at inspiration rooms that resonate with you.
I would first pull the sectional away from the wall a bit and move the tv to the right to center with the sofa and not the wall.
Agree with Renee. I’d move the TV and console to the right. I’d eliminate those framed photos and also the clock above the TV. I like Maureen’s suggestion on rug size.
If interested, I’d keep the chairs (upholstering will not be expensive…getting a quote may help you decide). Your DR has so much potential!!! and consider long term.
A rug will do wonders, a second hand console could save you money and your art may need updating. This can be done slowly.
You might even be able to use the bottom of the hutch (may need to refinish the top) and change the hardware.
Why not go crazy and do ghost chairs and a really cool new chandelier in a modern style I traded my dining chais for ghosts when we down sized and people are a bit wary when they first sit down but are surprised how comfy they are I put real sheep skin on the seats for a bit of fun This pic is good becuase it shows the colors and some different styles
I'm always a fan of traditional oriental rugs. They IMHO are timeless and go with almost any decor. Am thinking that a rug with red in it would warm this space up.
Instead of rushing to buy, take your time and be sure to measure.
Reference your wall color, wood tones, art and accessories, the set’s style and what will connect the room and adjoining spaces. If waiting to buy, and would like suggestions, provide a picture of the set/your room and you’ll get more helpful suggestions. Look on line as well so you can envision the bigger picture (mat at slider can just be a solid complementary color).
Are there stands made for this clock? If so, might suggest that instead of trying to attach the clock to the wall.
If not already addressed, this might help.
For sure the lighter….if interested, consider creating a more eye catching area by extending rod/doubling drapery to rest more on the wall. Adding cushions, a coffee table and even an natural blind, will create a more balanced area, nicely framing/highlighting the view.
Thanks Noreen!
Norwood - i'm not sure, I thought I was missing something but maybe I do just leave it open. My hope leans contemporary so I guess less is more just struggling to find a coffee table that fits the space!
White sheer linen is not going to block the view. And it adds softness to the room. The bamboo shades add nice texture as well.
How do you want room to feel and be sure to have a plan. If wallpapering, that’s the first decision and suggest looking on line for inspiration. On line mood boards can be very helpful.
If you want room to feel larger, I’d skip wallpaper and only use colored drapes if they tie in really well.
Light linen like drapes might also be a good choice. I’d also add a longer rod so wider drapery can rest more on the wall.
Show all walls @Tania
Wow, those are very interesting wallpapers, with the monkeys! I love it when I come across someone here in the dilemmas who isn't afraid to go beyond!
As was stated previously, select and install the wallpaper and then select the curtains. I could see bamboo shades on the windows with ivory linen panels.
I ended up using three different whites in my home…natural light has a big effect. You should also consider the counter, backsplash and flooring. Test narrowed down colors and be sure to ask paint consultant for recommendations on paint type for walls vs cabinets vs trim.
I agree that testing is essential, since the same white can look warm in one room and gray in another depending on light and furnishings. I would paint large swatches on the walls and check them in morning and evening light before deciding. For trim and cabinets, keep the color consistent but consider a slightly different finish so the details still stand out without clashing.
I learned this the hard way when a white I loved on the swatch looked completely different once it was on my walls. I would paint a few large test patches and live with them for a couple of days in both daylight and evening light before committing to one for walls, trim, and cabinets.
Depends on your budget and then prioritize as to what would have the biggest impact (short or long term). What’s your budget and wish list? It’s important to have a plan and have a look in mind (search for inspiration on line). Is the furniture yours or from the listing?
The eating area will have a big influence with the dining set and window treatment setting the tone and be sure island’s choices are complementary. Hardware and lighting are not expensive, add some color (and even a new backsplash at some point).
I want to warm it up. Replace backsplash and paint island and cabinets and replace hardware just
Love all the suggestions here. Also would like to replace kitchen table, chairs and table in sitting area and portrait
I plan on getting an 8 by 10. My room is 10 by 14.
An 8 × 10 can be a sensible starting size in a 10 × 14 room. If the 10-foot side runs with the room’s 14-foot length, it leaves roughly 1 foot of bare floor on the two short sides and about 2 feet at each end before furniture changes that balance. The more important check is the seating footprint: tape out the full 8 × 10 and make sure the sofa and both chair front legs sit comfortably on it without narrowing the main walkway or interfering with the movable poufs. What is the sofa length, and how much clear passage do you need beside the seating group? A straight-on photo of the taped outline with the sample would make the final proportion much easier to judge.
Suggest 3/4 glass to bring more light into your home and to create a more welcoming entrance. If interested, the door’s shade below would work well with your roof and the siding. You mentioned painting the alcove white, but conside duplicating the color of your siding.
When possible, suggest adding higher landscaping right across the house.
IF you choose a door with glass, here is my suggestion. Get PLAIN glass.
The plain glass is better insulated, has a longer warranty and is MUCH less expensive!
If you want to have a "decorative glass", you can add a high quality film.
You can also change the film at a later time.
This company has every kind, and will even cut it to size:
Decorative Film Products | Decorative Films - Decorative Privacy Glass Window Films
We just got a 6 pane front door with clear glass and beveled edged, love the bevel! We realized we could add a film for privacy if needed but like it this way!
Consider a unique statement piece that is lighter/softer/organic, leaning towards Wabi Sabi.
That’s a coincidence! It’s lovely and hope you provide a picture.
@maureen I definitely will!
Have the rest of the furniture and accessories been bought (other than rug)? Hard to suggest without knowing what you already have.
If starting with a couch, choose a color that appeals to you and would like to continue using to pull the space together.
Do you have pets and/or young children, as fabric vs leather and light vs dark are important considerations.
freedomplace1: love the racy chair! Good idea. Thanks
MY sofa but it is a bit mossier in person
In addition to receiving advice, maybe look on line for ideas.
Proportions are key and with the narrow width/short length of the table on a large wall, suggest taping out mirror shapes and sizes. That decision will be the jumping off point style and accessory wise. Consider sconces for balance/low lighting and even a rug. Don’t suggest a bench and be sure to create a connection to the living room.
I agree with centering the cabinet on that long wall, since that is what made our own entry finally feel settled instead of lopsided. A mirror about two-thirds the width of the cabinet worked well for us too, and I would keep the bench slim so it does not crowd the walkway.
Get a mirror that's at least 40 to 48 inches wide. Anything smaller will look tiny above a 57-inch cabinet. Hang it so the bottom is 6 to 8 inches above the cabinet.
The wall and fireplace decisions shouldn’t be in a silo; it’s premature. Priorities: furniture/style/needs, placement and how to connect the LR and DR. Once defined you’ll have a better sense of what to do with the wall. It’s a slow process to start a room from scratch. If you would like help, provide a picture of the entire dining room, a floor plan/measurements, your needs and style (especially!). Looking on line can be very helpful and save rooms that resonate.
Regarding the panelling/fireplace, having a budget in mind will help narrow down your options, short and long term. (The flooring and panelling seem to be competing.)
The panelling is beautiful and with those windows, it doesn't make the room dark. I would not paint it. I might paint the fireplace surround a warm cream instead of that stark white.
You need to start with furniture. I lived in rental homes for years and putting my furniture in them made the place seem like mine. I've lived in my current house for 10 years and we painted only one room when we bought it --- the two-tones of purple plus fuschia tween-dream bedroom. I used to be a fan of warm white walls, but my house's strong colors seem like home, now.
I'd start with the furniture and curtains and leave the wood alone for now. It's in good shape, and once a sofa and rug are in you'll know if it still bothers you. Paint can't be undone on wood, so waiting a few months costs you nothing.
Suggest bringing home lots of paint chips and tape to the wall. Get test pots of your favorites and paint large strips on the wall near the stone, your flooring sample and your chair. If confident in your choice (look at them during different times of the day and at night); it’s easier to paint before flooring is installed.
Also…go on line and look at what colors were used with similar components. If it were me, I’d be heading towards a light, soft neutral to offset the dark flooring.
My suggestion is you work with the tone of the floors when picking your paint color, so I will say B.M. Muslin. The undertone makes it a good pairing.
Consider how you want room to feel overall and have a plan before purchasing anything.
Can the seating area be centered across from the fireplace, to create a more balanced feel and also allow for a console table under the window (skip the right side table). A square side table on left will better fill that corner/be more practical and allow for a larger lamp. Accessories are also key and consider your preferred color scheme.
Round …..not matching the other finishes.
Thanks for all your comments. I already own the coffee table and side table so will keep those.
Given the choice of endless paint colors, maybe find the bedding you love so as not to limit yourself by trying to work with a paint color (which can also have different effects depending on the time of the day).
Did you test any of the suggested colors before choosing Manchester Tan?
I know it is a done deal, but honestly, Manchester Tan would not have been on my list of things to try because the muted green based tan fights with the mauve carpet.
There were a lot of good suggestions provided that would have worked better with the carpet.
Yes- and several didnt work great. To gray or too much contrast- i know my dh wouldnt care for a drastic change.
One thing is for sure, the Houzz community gives direct feedback. lol I appreciate that.
I think a moody paint color would pull the patterns together and look deliberate…could be stunning. What is the flooring like?
Consider removing the entire window, as it will be too small to provide much light and will give you more flexibility when accessorizing.
For starters you need to visually link the objects you have assembled in this room. The right gray paint on the wall should help you do that.
I think it’s really stunning... I love it. You just need a couple of finishing touches. The “details”.
Along with gold/brass - black would provide contrast, work with your finishes, and also add drama; and let’s face it... your finishes are dramatic (in a good way). This is not the bathroom for the shy and retiring.
I agree that you can hang a mirror with your current window in place; really no need to remove it.
I added a black and brass soap dispenser, and a black and brass light. Lighting is going to make a difference in the look and feel of the space.
I had requested a black and brass Industrial style light for over the mirror, and I think such style/genre could be interesting in your space. I love the one AI chose - except, it is covering a bit too much of the mirror.
If possible and budget allowed:
- suggest taking out what’s behind the fridge/to window and add a counter depth fridge facing the opposite wall.
- Where bench is (wasted space), a stand alone cabinet would be ideal facing the dining area.
- Once you start..it’s most likely that they/you will find that other things could do with an update. If interested, consider lightening up the wall color, and new window treatment.
Agree with @Diana Bier it is helpful to know the scope -
for me, if i was renoing i would want to address the dishwasher and dryer situation for resale down the road
You might be able to turn the fridge and place on that wall where the bench is and maybe even fit a nice true pullout pantry cabinet beside it.
Two linen roller shades might do the trick.
Given the width of the walls on the sides, a lot of drapery will be resting on the window, so you may lose some light and having to slide them back and forth can be a nuisance.
Inside mount Duette shades with top-down/bottom-up option.
Order in white, so they match/blend with the window trim color.
I'd use top-down, bottom-up cellular shades. You pull them up from the bottom for privacy and keep the top open, so you still get light and the trees. Since the frame sticks out, mount them outside, on the wall above the trim. Split the 120" into two or three shades so they're easy to move.
If planning on a new dining set in the not too distant future, I’d hold off replacing for now as the table should dictate its size and style.
What was glaring to me was not only its size, but its placement. If open to having the electrical moved (placing a plate over or repair ceiling), it would be a priority for me. No matter what you choose will never be flattering.
Vs
If you want to complement the island’s lighting:
If you go with the drum shade i'll check how it looks from a seated position before buying. Some look soft from the side but leave the bulbs visible underneath. A bottom diffuser would be something id look for over the nook table, especially if you spend time there reading or chatting after meals.
Very good point - thanks for your feedback on that
Assume you are considering these two walls, as your desk will be opposite the doorway? Without the floor plans’ dimensions, it‘s hard to get a feel for the space. I think placing it on either of these walls, it will feel squeezed in, akward, and lose its impact. The doors especially are the issue.
I’d take advantage of the interrupted(?) wall to create more impact and balance. The chairs in this picture won’t fit I assume, but if the configuration and ideas are possible, it would my choice. Consider as well how it‘s accessorized and its paint color.
French doors into the room would be lovely as well!
Go with Wall #1, but be careful with the furniture layout. If you put the fireplace there, you'll likely need to float the chairs in the middle of the room so you aren't sitting directly in front of the doorway. Wall #2 might be easier for seating, but Wall #1 will look much better from the hallway.
I just finished redoing our master and it took a lot of testing/returning until I was happy. If interested…can you return the shams as they are not working with the bed cover and feel so dark.
Consider a lighter, more layered combination and a coverlet isn’t expensive/will not be heavy. Try HomeSense/Marshalls, Target and Amazon.
When budget allows, consider new lamps and three larger art prints, which will pull the room together and add needed color.
Consider high boy and chair accessorizing and think about how you want room to feel.
My suggestion would be to edit your accessories a bit. Every wall/corner doesn't have to be filled. If the green vase serves a purpose (hiding cords) and you love it, take out the sticks/branches. Unless the blue swirly art is special to you, remove those 3 pieces and the fake plant under the one in the corner. Remove the vase/flowers on the cabinet by the art you love (next to the fireplace) because imo it is competing with the art. I'd remove the basket on the cabinet to keep it more eye level with the art. Try removing a few things to simplify and see how you feel about it. Add back what you love and miss. If you get a sofa table, keep it very simple. You don't need more accessories.
Agree^^^, and too many splotches of blue.
They are Tambour panels and if you Google you’ll see lots of suppliers. Here’s a link to one site, if you’d like to read up on them. https://www.thewoodveneerhub.com/collections/flutto-flexible-tambour-wood-panels
Here's one of our fireplaces with a different version of panelling.
Because they're rounded at the surface, they appear to be half dowels that were spaced out and added to the wall and then painted.
Adding another color, as Beverly suggested will give the room more character. You can do that with pillows. Found these on Etsy. The rug and drapes she suggested would be a good start.
If choosing another paint color, be sure it will work with the adjoining spaces. Oftentimes purchasing a rug first is an easier way to narrow down colors and be sure to test/look at during different times of the day.
If you are fine with the color, I think with the right accessories, the room could be transformed. Look on line for ideas and try Pinterest/search ”stone hearth living room with rust sectional” and note how room is pulled together.
I agree with changing color of tv wall. I also agree on a bigger rug. I have two small sofas - did you see the pot I did right before yours? Can you elaborate on your thoughts of furniture placement. For some reason this is hard for me and shouldn't be! LOL
Test both layouts/live with each for a while and you’ll see what works best for your family. Visually they are both fine. Hold off adding art as the seating will have an influence both size and placement wise.
Consider creating an inviting dining area by adding wallpaper, a coordinated roman blind, and some plants on the ledge. Think about how much color intensity you want or if you prefer to work with your color scheme.
Suggest a set of prints on this wall and be sure to tape out to help you decide on the size/number of the grouping (lean larger).
If you want vibrancy, add with your art choice.
I do like the look of shelving but anything sticking out from either wall will not work because of walking and dining space.
Grey kitchens are the easiest to warm up with artwork because nothing competes with it. The two walls give you options, one could be a larger statement piece and the other a smaller cluster.
A framed map is one that works well in kitchens, The Unique Maps Co. does restored antique ones that add colour without being a big abstract print everyone else has. Pick somewhere that means something rather than decorative.
If the walls are narrow, a vertical piece or a small group of three works better than one wide frame that leaves awkward gaps.
Could you advise how this space relates to the LR and/or kitchen as that might have an influence as to the look you might want to go with. If it‘s more of a hall/walk through, it’s going to need to feel connected.
I'd go with Warm Modern - Wood & Earthy Tones!
The understair area looks perfect for a built-in bar.
I just saw my gandsons’ new bathroom and because it‘s small + they wanted to avoid lots of grout, they used a larger tile similar to below on bath’s walls and on the floor. For the fun factor, you could use a colored vanity and even wallpaper.
I used a white fish scale tile on the tub/shower surrong in my daughters' bathroom.
Herringbone on the tub walls will look great, and the grout concern is easy to manage. A few things that help:
Choose a grout color that matches the tile as closely as possible; the pattern still reads, but the lines disappear and you don't notice every joint. Use a high-performance or epoxy grout (Mapei Flexcolor CQ or Laticrete SpectraLock are common ones); they resist staining and mildew and don't need sealing. And go with a longer plank, something like 4x12 or 3x12 instead of 2x8, which cuts the number of grout lines by about half while keeping the herringbone look.
Since it's a kids' tub wall, the splash zone is mostly the lower few feet; a simple, good exhaust fan and a quick squeegee or towel-down after baths will keep the grout clean for years. Keep the floor simple and matte for contrast so the walls stay the feature. It will be a sweet bathroom.
Have you considered adding film…much less trouble and inexpensive.
Privacy glass is available for example Marvin Essentials fiberglass frame windows.
I would want the flexibility to change it so would also do film - we recently did film from this company for a downstairs egress window, looks great and easy to do
How do you want to use this space and what’s your wish list?
A lounge corner on that wall is a lovely idea, and it's a very doable one. Two comfortable chairs angled slightly toward each other with a small round table between them (about 20 to 24 inches tall) and a floor lamp behind one is the classic version. If you'd rather stretch out, a small loveseat or a chaise around 60 to 70 inches wide works too.
Because the ceiling slopes, keep the pieces low-backed and put the lamp on the taller-wall side so nothing fights the angle. Anchor the grouping with a 5x8 rug and hang one large piece of art or a big mirror above it; in a mostly white room with gray carpet, that's what makes the corner feel like a destination instead of leftover space. Keep the fabrics soft and the colors close to your bedding so the room reads as one.
If you post a wider photo with rough measurements, I'm happy to sketch out a layout for you.
So much depends on the room’s style and table’s size, your taste and how you’d like the vignette to feel. Did you want it to complement something in particular (say on the wall). I find testing different combinations is the best method as balance and height are key and a grouping of 3 works well. Maybe look on line for inspiration.
With no information and In the spirit of the approaching holiday season ... I'll go with this!
LOL
If wanting a Zen feel…not sure if light wood + black accessories + gold sink and trim, in addition to the flooring, fixtures and hardware choices(?) is the way to go. There are ways to add ”fun”, but if you‘re not careful it could be overwhelming vs Zen.
Maybe try ChatGPT and enter the info you provided to get some idea of the result. Are you working with anyone for advice, as there’s no going back if you’re not happy/having spent a lot of money? Perhaps looking on line at Zen bathrooms with saunas will help and the ”fun” can be added with less permanent choices: paint color, wall treatment, accessories, and lighting.
Just read your comments that room is 8x8. You are going to have squeeze out every square inch, allowing for a free standing tub + single sauna + vanity and toilet. Have you calculated and figured out their placement?
Black, white and wood will feel calm. It really comes down to all the elements working well with each other. The more inspiration rooms you look at might help with different decisions.
Your move to a white sink sounds like a useful simplification. With the sauna and tub already providing the room’s character, I’d let those be the features and add personality through something easy to change—art, towels or a small accessory.
Before buying the remaining pieces, have your designer check the measured layout against the exact sauna and tub specifications, including door movement, required clearances and access for cleaning. In a compact room, comfortable use deserves as much attention as fitting everything in.
Which sauna model have you selected, and could you share the scaled sketch you mentioned? That would help focus suggestions on the space you actually have.
I love the direction you're going with this! The light oak, matte black, and thin gold accents could make such a beautiful combination, especially with the sauna.
For the fun feature, I'd consider a small section of vertical wood-look slat tile or a textured accent wall. Something that adds personality through texture rather than introducing another bold color.
We did a zen bathroom at our old house and here's what we put on our list, some we used, some we didn't
Mirror https://link.amazon/B0aFrDzSE
Slats https://link.amazon/B00fIOCsC
Teek Stool https://link.amazon/B0fatHw4t
Suggest patterned roman blinds - 1 large or 2 small on each window. Hard to suggest though, given the walls look different in the pictures and not seeing the room in its entirity.
I think drapery will cover too much of the window given the narrow space next to fireplace. The other side will have to mimic…losing light and also appreciation of the view.
I would do solar shades if heat and UV are an issue and then drapes for night time privacy and the shades allow you to see outside all day
I prefer the second and a bamboo blind will help tie everything together. Suggest a semi flush light and consider its size no matter what style you choose (the ones you show are too small and the amount of light will be minimal). Consider painting the shelving area the same color as the walls.
We are also considering backing it with bead board matching the paint color, or filling the shelf space with bins.
I like the bead board idea!
Cut different sizes of Kraft paper and tape to wall and height is important as well. Ignore the content, only providing to help with visualizing a balanced vignette.
If you do not want beige, avoid all the suggestions for beige and go with what you wanted which was something colorful/ blue and mountain_/ocean related. Something sentimental. A
As Norwood Architects said, just choose whatever you want that is a reminder of your trips/memories. If you are set on the two you found in your OP, the first one is nice and framed can look good. Adding blue accents might be all you really need to tie in the space.
There's 1000s upon 1000s of different paintings that can fit your criteria, so finding one that is sentimental to you, I think is key.
I wouldn’t be deciding based on the door. First decision is lighter vs darker and if still having a hard time deciding on these three, can you hold off and research a different line. It’s a big commitment both visually and financially and you should get a positive gut reaction and know it’s right.
If you come again with any issue keep the issue to all one post please , duplicate posts do not get better help they just irritate
👍🏻!
I think it’s important to consider the big picture (especially with the open concept) and suggest waiting until the flooring is updated as it will have a big influence. You may even find the black counters could suit, are you keeping the backsplash? Before making any changes to the cabinetry, look on line for kitchens that appeal to you. Painting the cabinets/walls would then be the last decision.
Thank you! I don’t see a checkerboard floor in my future, but appreciate the thought. Especially with
Sorry but the first thing to do is get proper lighting . I see no improvement in adding molding to that very ugly soffitt which I am sure could be made less obtrusive .The same engineered as the rest of the house but that will require a huge amnount of work since the tile will have to be removed , so maybe in that time also open the soffitt see what can be done to lessen it and raise the upper cabinets 3 " to lessen the bulk above. Then all one color for walls and cabinets and some new pulls if you must. Remove the tile and just keep the counter and the 4" splash
The best way forward is to look on line for combinations you like and decide on your budget/priorities and where the biggest impact could be. For instance, keeping the flooring (which is nice) will save a lot of money so you could put elsewhere.
Could you provide a picture of the entire space, including the dining area, so as to receive more comprehensive advice. It could feel quite different just by changing the counters and/or backsplash, painting walls, and updating lighting and hardware.
Yes definetely cabinets would look better with new brushed brass harware and glass doors.
You can get quotes for refacing the cabinets. If you don’t like wood, you won’t feel better about this kitchen with “new knobs”. Do some research and figure out if you can save for a kitchen you love.
It can be done in stages, but price everything you want and then make a plan.
If having to stay in the DR, add various sized flameless candles and if house isn’t sold by December, maybe add boughs/mini lights.
Is there another room where it could go…a sunroom?
A pebble tray in the bottom with succulents, potted plants?
AI included a pothos gone wild, but that would take a while!
Fairy lights seem a bit tacky in such an elegant space I would do more proper lighting for sure and IMO a nice live fern looks great in a bird cage.