SFGate

cmcole1121 I've attached a pic of another lamp that is taller and wider - would this work better? Ive also attached a garden stool i like that could be used as side table for 1 chair (earlier suggestion). Thoughts?? It also comes in gray. Also thoughts on bookshelf and demilune table (to replace current table at entry)?@lpmenache & @kklinton I really appreciate your comments and advice.

bluenan Take a look at the same garden stool at a much better price! They have quite a few from which to choose. I picked one up at HomeGoods for even less but they're not always available and there might not be one in your area. I do like the grey from Ballard as well.
http://www.overstock.com/Home-Garden/Ceramic-Garden-Stool-White/6996406/product.html

cmcole1121 @bluenan thanks for the great tip! ? Has anyone ordered from Joss &Main? What is quality like? I'm hesitant but think some stuff is great.

rpl814 I'm not here to help with the decorations- I'm here to ask you where you bought your couch. I like it :-)

cmcole1121 Thanks ;-) I love it too-pics don't do it justice. its the Aidan Sofa from Crate & Barrel.

Angelina Vick Hi Christine, you have a beautiful space. The couch is a great neutral color and will be very versatile for decorating.

When I looked at your space...I first thought that have a great dominant piece of art over the couch would be perfect. You could also put a mirror in the center with a metal wall sculpture set. I tried to look some up for you but I couldn't find any that I thought would serve the width of the couch well. Whatever you choose to hang above the couch...you play all of your accent colors off of it.

A few pieces of art came to mind.
The blues purples and grays would bring color into the room without being overpowering.
http://angelina-vick.artistwebsites.com/featured/water-world-1-angelina-vick.html

This piece came to mind because it has many colors but it's also modern and versatile for decor matching
http://angelina-vick.artistwebsites.com/featured/the-garden-of-your-mind-rainbow-1-angelina-vick.html


The last piece that came to mind is this. Bold and beautiful nature would shine brightly in your room.
http://angelina-vick.artistwebsites.com/featured/when-clouds-meet-mountains-2-angelina-vick.html

libradesigneye Determine whether you are drawn more to the clear blues or the aqua blues as it is difficult when starting out to mix them. Then make sure every blue thing you select is in the right color family.
Clear blue is like denim, navy, sky, porcelain. Aqua blues are spa, turquoise, teal, peacock. Blues with a little blue green in them. The more you layer shades of the same color throughout your room (like you have done with the gray walls, couch and metal) the more expensive your room will feel.

Both of these can be muted with gray so you get sophisticated tones of these but newbies can get tripped up when adding - i love blue too and learned this the hard way. I'm a clear blue myself because I have to have violet / periwinkle but you may be an aqua (i love to wear turquoise!). Just watch and have a plan.

cmcole1121 @libradesigneye thanks for the tips! I like both kinds of blues - not so much denim or navy but sky, porcelain, teal, turquoise! How do I know which work together - for example if u look at some pics I posted of artwork , lamps and rug I like they are all lighter but maybe different tones - do they work?

Angelina Vick Some of the pieces I posted had those colors. I think they flow well together if it's done carefully.

Did you like any of my ideas?

cmcole1121 Angelina - Thanks, i have a piece of art I am working with now. I'll keep it in mind once I know where I'm headed with what I have already.thanks for your thoughts

Angelina Vick You're welcome.

Ok...so you have art for above the couch then? Or for above the mantle? What colors are in that? What kind of design is it? (Oh I'm sorry I didn't see it the post above) The size of the print will make a big different above your couch. It won't look right if it is too small.

Like I said, the colors of what go above the couch will be a great launching point for the colors in the room. Also...the frame.

I have seen great tie in's with the lamps and pillows based on the colors and design of the art.

Angelina Vick Sky blues and multiple shades of it with maybe a few shades of brown would look great for the couch.

A print that light would look very nice in a white frame or a very dark one, and it would still look modern.

I just read over your discussion again...maybe you thought I was just trying to push my art? I wasn't. I was trying to answer what you asked. I didn't only give input about art...I gave other ideas too.

Have fun designing your room! =)

If you pick pieces you love and slowly add them together, you will be happy with the result.

zindor Hi, Christine.

I am very impressed with your room. Your inspiration art piece and your rug seem ideal to me. Trust your instincts and go with the blue lamp, too!

I love blues, particularly blue-greens, and have spent much of the last two years making my house suit me by using these colors with great enthusiasm. It sounds like you are hesitant to use as much blue as you would like because you are afraid of what others might think, though. For me, the more blues I used, the happier I became and the more compliments I received for my choices, so I say to go for it! The blues that are calling to you will work well with the greys and blacks you have already chosen,

From looking at what you have selected thus far, I think bringing in a few more pieces of art with the blues you love most will make the most impact. Don't be in a rush to fill each space on the wall. Instead, take the time to find pieces that you will love.

Your inspiration art piece reminds me of original paintings from a gallery in my coastal town, Wilmington, NC. They carry a lot of original artwork inspired by the water. I'm not necessarily suggesting that you buy one of these, though the prices are pretty reasonable for original paintings, but they may provide some ideas for you: http://www.newelementsgallery.com/content/index.cfm?fuseaction=contactSheet&startRow=13&category=121

(I thought of this gallery because "Seabright" (posted above by cjohnston) reminded me of one of my favorite purchases from them. I've also seen paintings in the gallery like the one you posted.)

Best wishes,
Sandra.

Darzy I really like cjohnston's lamp selection. Reflective, light and stylish.

Winward Designs Of course we will need to give you some floral options. We feel a simple orchid on your side table will soften your room perfectly. http://bit.ly/XFhLkm. Add to this some cream colored silk throw pillows, silver framed pictures of your family, and a luscious throw and you'll be ready to cozy up to the fireplace.

Marie Hebson's interiorsBYDESIGN Inc. PINK! Go pink for our florals, bring in hits of crystal, cream, chrome, and gray - pop it with pink!

cmcole1121 Any thoughts on furniture pics i added in earlier post? Also I attached some Mirror ideas for above FP - thoughts or other recommendations?
@zindor thanks for your kind words and encouragement :-).

Andrea Prasch Hello again! Yes I would add a rug with some texture and art above the couch as well as a decorative mirror above mantle. Window panels would also really soften things up here.

bluenan Hi There,
I love the Ballard bookcase, but keep in mind that's quite a few shelves to fill and arranging bookcases is a bit of an art form. Here a few examples of what I think are nicely arranged bookcases.
Here's a mirror like the one you posted but with antique silver instead of gold. The size would work as well.
http://www.simplymirrors.com/wall-mirrors/ornate-wall-mirrors/cyrusbeveledmirror.cfm

cmcole1121 Thanks @bluenan I was not sure about the gold in the mirror so im happy u shared a silver version. I will check it out!! Also thanks for tip on the bookcase - point well taken. What do u think of the garden seat next to the chairs - do u think that would work? Also what do u think about the lamps I attached? Thanks again - u have been very helpful.

bluenan You're so welcome. Love the garden seat idea, I was the one who poster it earlier, lol! I love the lamps as well, they are larger than the others and I would think, tall enough. You've got great taste and a wonderful room, be confident in your choices, you've certainly made good ones!

Darzy christinemcole. I LOVE all your choices, except the lamps. They are nice, but not glamorous enough for you!

shortped Mirror #3 of the row of four

shortped How about a crystal lamp?

libradesigneye Cc - go to the paint aisle at home depot and pick out some blue green paint strips that go from light to dark - take one of each and all the way over to where the blues are not so blue green. Take them all home, and find those that you feel harmonize best and look with your eye to the ones that are too green or too blue. Then, narrow down to the 4 or so that seem to be great for you - now you can look at the non-shade-strip paint chips and tell which ones are blue-green and which ones are not.
When you shop, use them to be your color guides for the right blues for your space. Pretty soon, your eye will tell you, but until then, you can rely on that little bit of assistance.

misspeggy7 cowhide rug on the floor....either black and white or brown and white. chunky pottery in earthy colors, some funky artwork on the walls..a mirror opposite a window or above the fireplace (trimmed in black). You have a great start to a fantastic room.

marcmarg I think that your room does need some sparkle--metallics in the pillows? Sheer curtains with some silver tones, big mirror or maybe some smaller mirrors in a collage with your painting!

shortped Sparkle....crystal and chrome lamps!

marcmarg Sorry, how do I submit pics from my houzz?

shortped Omg....look on houzz website products for porcupine quill mirror....fab!

Darzy shortped...I knew exactly what you were talking about! I've seen it too before and it's awesome.

Darzy @marcmarg..this is how I copy a picture. Find the picture..then right click on the picture and click on "open in a new window". Then, right click copy the URL of the picture. Come back to comments, then to write a comment. Put the curser in this "box" and "paste" the url of the picture. The picture should come up little in this box, then "submit". Give it a go.

shortped Darzy, how do I add from iPad?

Darzy This lamp is gorgeous. Pricey..but gorgeous. Something glam like this lamp would be stunning in your space.

marcmarg

shortped Marcmarg, I love that...feminine and beautiful

marcmarg

Thanks, shortped. Marzy, it worked for this grandma!

marcmarg [houzz=
]
I love etsy. Okay, I'll stop now.

bluenan You also have the option of using a floor lamp on one or possibly both sides of your couch instead of a table lamp. It could solve the height problem and help frame your art above the couch.

cmcole1121 Wow thanks everyone! @darzy i really like that lamp but it is WAY too pricey. I'll look to see if i can find something similar, although I'm not sure I've changed my mind about the blue :-). Although i do like the mercury type lamps too.
I'm waiting for the rug swatch to c if I like it and am meeting with framer this weekend to c if my print will work above sofa. I'm really leaning toward this mirror for over FP and a garden stool for next to chair - but still have to figure out about windows, other furniture, pillows, and other accent pieces. Continued ideas would be great :-)

cmcole1121 Thoughts on these 3 lamp options (for end tables)? Thanks @cjohnston for the suggestion of the last one in an earlier post. Do people think one of these would work enter than the blue options? I could do blue on a side table right?
@bluenan thanks for floor lamp ideas. We will def need in room - I'm thinking maybe next to 1 of end tables.

cmcole1121 Oops - I misspoke, meant would consider floor lamp next to chair (not end table)

lpmenache I am glad you liked some of my ideas. Love teh black book shelf with Xs on the sides. Love the garden stool idea so every thing is not so matchy. The lamp in those photos does not wow me nor does the idea of the round mirror over the mantle. The porcupine mirror is interesting. The mirror should be fluid and organic and not so geometric. I dont want your room look a a "shape" version of color blocking, squares, rectangles and circles. Floor lamp idea is also good. The items in the room need to speak to each other while adding interest to the room. Rooms that are 2+2=4 are not as interesting as rooms where 2+2 =5. I think you have got great taste. Keep searching for the right items and the room will look like it evolved over time rather than one that was plopped down from furniture heaven. Great job so far.

bluenan Hi There,
I wouldn't suggest using a clear glass lamp on a glass top table, but your other silver lamps are really pretty! I especially like the West Elm choice. There are a lot of suggestions for bling, but I also think you need natural textures to help layer the space. Wicker, velvet, linen, etc.

http://www.westelm.com/products/studded-velvet-pillow-cover-b775/?cm_src=AutoSchRel
http://www.secretgardeninteriors.co.uk/image/cache/data/Coach%20House/Grey%20Wash%20Willow%20Round%20Basket-250x250.jpg
http://www.garden-gear.co.uk/home/fireside/grey-wash-log-basket.htm#

bluenan Some more examples.

bluenan What are your thoughts about window treatments? Do you need privacy, insulation from winter cold or summer heat? You have great light in your room!

Joann Vitali Fine Art Photography Over the couch I would suggest a black and white triptych or panoramic, canvas or framed piece, to fill the space. Here are a couple examples.
http://joann-vitali.artistwebsites.com/featured/zakim-memorial-bridge-triptych-joann-vitali.html
http://joann-vitali.artistwebsites.com/featured/zakim-panoramic-joann-vitali.html

bluenan Art work has been selected, read the thread.

Darzy @shortped...Sorry, I don't know about ipad adding photos. I like the west elm silver lamp! It's reasonably priced as well.

bluenan Here you go, shine AND texture! You've got to love West Elm!

bluenan Obviously, I'm not working today. If you wanted to get an open bookshelf like the one from Ballard, here's an idea that would take you through until you could collect your own meaningful items. If you have a local library they probably sell old books for about 25 cents a piece, I know mine does. Check out the white wrapped books in the pictures. Not too practical if you plan on reading them! Mixed in with other items, you could create something rather stunning.

cmcole1121 Thanks again. Re mirror - unfortunately I'm not a big Fan of the porcupine mirror (& doubt my husband will be ;-). I think I'm more traditional than that. So I'm still leaning towards other choice.

As for lamps - funny thing - I happened to be in NYC today and swung by the West elm store. I saw the silver lamp and while I like the base - I'm not sure i love the lamp. The shade is as tall as the base:-( which is a bit off putting to me. Honestly didn't love a lot of the decor things in the store (although there may be a curtain I like). I have to see what happens with rug first. I did pick up some little things though.

As for windows - I definitely don't want anything too dark as the room doesn't get too much light and privacy is not a huge issue in this room. Would like to keep lighter - any ideas?

marcmarg will you be placing a rug in front of the sofa? It might be easier Tim choose that before the curtains.

cmcole1121 How about this beautiful lamp? Found on Joss & Main - anyone have success with them? Also I'm thinking about this garden stool (instead of one posted earlier). Thoughts?

Yes I am going to do a rug - waiting for swatch (posted pic of what I'm leaning towards in earlier post). Someone had sled about windows - I won't finalize windows til rug done ;-).

Kelly order fast...they sell out quickly

bluenan Love that stool, I have one like it. Look at my original post of the Valerie Wills Interiors pic. Click to enlarge and you'll see it next to the black and white upholstered bench.

cmcole1121 @bluenan I know I liked it in your pic and found it online. What do u think of lamp I just posted?

lpmenache I do like both those items, lamp and stool. As for drapes I would just do a stationary panel on each side to soften the room . You could do silk or linen in teh same color as the wall or the blue in your pretty photograph that is going over the sofa. White panels will also work. If the budget allows a decorative trim or tape on the leading edge will give a great custom look. There is no pattern in the room and the stationary drapes may also provide an avenue for this.

bluenan I like it a lot, will tie in other touches of white and your crisp white trim. Very nice shape.

lovliny Great suggestions so far. Your room has a great beginning and I would concentrate on purchasing an area rug next. Something with some pattern and color. From there the rest of the room will fall into place as far as accent colors, lamps, art and accessories.

cmcole1121 What do u think of these pillows? Hope to finalize rug, art & mirror next week and then things will really come together ;--).

I ordered the white lamps and stool last night :-). Got lamps at BB&B and was able to use coupon ;-).

cjohnston I love these pillows! The lamps you got are perfect. I can't wait to see everything together. Great job!

lpmenache I like the IKAT pillow alot and It can be paired with the solid one.

OnePlan First move the tall bookcase in picture 3 to the centre of the corner wall in picture 2 - it's too big for the wall it's on at the moment !

Add character by grouping collections of prints - say 12 above the sofa (2x rows of 6) - and groups of picture on other plain wall areas - but the key here is to have all the same frame for all your pictures ! I would choose either Black - or white - but don't mix them !!

Add some interesting books to the coffee table - and a few funky cushions ! Maybe some lamps for soft evening lighting ! Job done !
Sit back and enjoy !!

debouma love the room! cant wait to see the end result.

cmcole1121 Thanks all. So I have a new challenge. It appears that the artwork I posted earlier (lighthouse seascape) is not big enough to hang over the sofa. Any other ideas of where we can hang the print in room and also other ideas for behind the sofa? I definitely want to have painting featured in room - wish we had bought a bigger print :-(. Also as reminder the wood furniture in pics are not staying- need to get new pieces (addtl ideas welcome).

shortped I have lost track...can u give us pics of everything accomplished so far?

cmcole1121 Sure The initial pics of space are still the same. I've attached pics of other items purchased and/or things I'm really leaning towards. The lamps are for end tables, garden stool for next to 1 of the black chairs. I'll upload a few other pics in next comment as I can only attach 4 pics.

cmcole1121 Recap continued - A few more items I'm still finalizing but leaning towards. Mirror is for over fireplace. Thoughts about where to put artwork in previous post and what over the sofa?

shortped Hw wide are the semi lune and the picture?

shortped How...sorry

cmcole1121 The demilune is 38" wide, painting is not yet matted or framed and is 18 " wide. So the matting and frame will add size (how much TBD)

shortped Maybe the painting could go over a demilune next to the square archway?

bluenan The finished framed print will probably be around 30"-32" unless you get a really wide frame. That would be matted and framed. Depending on the look your after and the frame, sometimes matting isn't needed.

shortped I like the touches of black in the tables and stuff...I guess the black chairs with the rug are throwing me a bit....
How about a silver Bombay chest instead of the demilune?

bluenan IMHO, the proportions of the Torino demilune seem off to me. It feels top-heavy on those little turned legs. It may lack the sophistication needed for your room. I like the proportions of the Ballard Newport demilune better, though I don't know how you feel about the offered finishes.

marcmarg Are there two windows at the front of the room? Have you considered some kind of tall oblong table in front of the windows that would allow air flow from the radiator, but help to disguise the radiator a bit? I'll search before a couple of pics...

marcmarg Here is what I was thinking..Red Color Moon Face Hardware Narrow Console Altar Table
Desk - T037
http://www.ballarddesigns.com/benedetta-36-inch-console/furniture/consoles/14235

cmcole1121 Thanks for thoughts on demilune. To be honest i don't think I love it, was just feeling pressure to put something In that space. I'm kind of struggling how to best furnish and setup furniture throughout rest of room. I like ideas of console tables, bookshelves, and other cabinets but don't know where to put them to not overcrowd and want to make sure they aren't matchy matchy..

There are 3 windows - 1 in front of house & 2 others on either side of the fireplace. I also don't want to finish room all at once just to do it - but feel pressure to do so :-(.

@shortped what is throwing off about black chairs and rug? Not sure I understand.

bluenan Here's a large oil painting from Wisteria, not a one-of-a-kind, but pretty and certainly big enough. I'm not sure you'll like the green, but just a thought.

bluenan I just read your post... absolutely don't feel pressured! The best rooms evolve over time.

marcmarg The fun is in the planning, right?

Interiors Unleashed Wow, you have gotten lots of great ideas here. What I noticed about your room is how peaceful and calm it seems.

You might like to keep this calm while adding other color and perhaps a brighter accent.

I put together a color chart using BM colors converted to computer rgb's. The background is your Edgecomb Gray and I've added black, a couple of grays, The light blue is called Summer Shower. Violet Pinks work well and the darker one on the chart is called Beach Plum and the lighter one Misty Lilac. I added a bright accent color called Tropicana Cabana.

cmcole1121 How many pillows should I put on sofa? Don't want to overdo it or change the look of the sofa by adding too many pillows but want to add some color. I am really leaning towards ikat and metallic pillows posted in earlier threads but not sure how many.

jccbaker I 'm personally not a fan of pillows. They get in the way when I sit on the couch. Your coffee and end tables have glass undershelves. Do you collect anything colorful you could put there? Benjarong porcelain or even mismatched put pretty coffee cups and saucers that you like? I like the soothing colors, but just think a punch of bright color might be a good contrast.

lpmenache In regards to pillows, I would do two matching square Ikats you have chosen and then one solid silk one in an odd shape. I think that the console at the large window with the upholstered ottomans, stationary drape panels and the the right proprtioned art on each side, will give a very sophisitcated look and not look crowed. The console in front of the window will give you a very nice place to display a beautiful arrangement of flowers or sculpture that will be able to be seen from the street, letting eveyone know tht this is a sophisticated home and not a cookie cutter house. The ballard bookcase can go on the far wall near the dining room. I am not a fan of the mirror you have chosen for over the fireplace(wrong shape IMO), so would your print work there framed size wise? Otherwise matt the frame weighted at the bottom and chose a medium thick frame to continue to enlarge it without dwarfing the image.

cmcole1121 @lpmenache thanks for your ideas. So u think I should just have the 2 pieces against the walls? Console table in front of window and then bookcase against wall in 2nd pic (next to doorway)? (FYI that room is a sunroom/TV room not the dining room).

I love idea of console table in front of window, but that would mean no other furniture against walls on that side of room and there is a lot of space. Im sure it would look beautiful but I'm not sure.

I have to measure bookshelf as i think it may be too narrow for that space. I will measure wall later and post size. So for mirror u think I should do something totally round? Any suggestions? I am not a huge fan of the elaborate sunburst mirrors but don't want something boring.

megsk12 I love your space and decorating taste! Where is your glass coffee table and end table from? I'm looking for something similar. Thanks!!

jschieman You need art might I suggest a Canadian artist by the name Shane Norrie he is a fabulous artist and would add too an already beautiful start

bluenan Hi There,
If the Ballard bookcase is too narrow for the wall by the sunroom, think about putting it on the wall to the left of the big window, or possibly one on each side of the big window. (Even more shelves to fill!) You could then use a console table by the sunroom. Put your framed print over it and a lamp for additional lighting. You could put stools underneath, as well. I'd put the garden stool next to the chair to the left of the fireplace and a floor lamp behind the chair to the right. If there was a bookcase, the floor lamp would echo the vertical. Here's another round silver mirror from Wisteria.

cmcole1121 @megsk12 the tables are from pottery barn (tanner). Thanks for the complement. @bluenan I really like your suggestions and the pictures. Definitely earning more towards that as I like console table idea but don't want to lose the other space.

liss3126 Pull the sofa off the wall and move it closer towards the fire place... The coffee table too. This will leave a walking path behind the sofa to get across the room. Makes the space cozier on the couch by the fireplace. Consider adding an area rug under the sofa and coffee table too.

To the left of your fire place, where the window is... Move your bookcase onto the wall next to the window ( so the window would be to the left of the bookcase)... Then take your floor lamp and your chairs to create a cozy reading area, a separate area from the couch/fireplace over by the window where the radiator is... Chairs should be facing on an angle towards each other but looking out towards the window... Add you accent table for this area too.

Tis is a guess based on the space size from your pictures. If you find it too crowded with the coffee table and the couch... Get a slender bench to replace the coffee table or consider ottomans that would match the look of your couch. Don't be afraid to pull the couch off the wall and float it in the middle of your room. It will anchor the fireplace space and be inviting to guests... Come and sit by the fire.

This arrangement also gives you two separate spaces in an elongated looking room. Have fun and move furniture all around to create spaces...

cmcole1121 What do u think of this rug in my room? I uploaded a few pics of the swatch with my furniture? I'm still waiting for my new lamps and table to be delivered. Would live to hear thoughts on rug.

MARLENE BURNS FINE ART you need to place a fabulous piece of art above that fantastic mid century modern style sofa....pull colors from the painting...that is ALWAYS the smart way to go.
i specialize in fine art and custom paintings. check out my website at: www.art-marleneburns.com

cmcole1121 I am working on finding artwork for over sofa, but right now I'm trying to finalize the area rug. Thanks for your thoughts on my sofa :-).

cmcole1121 The sofa is grey - for some reason it looks more brown in the pic I uploaded with rug pic.

lovliny Like the rug you selected. Very nice choice.

bluenan I like the way it ties in the color of your wood floor. It's classic, not a "trendy" pattern, so it won't look dated in a few years.

cjohnston The rug is gorgeous...love the colors too! Can I add my thoughts on number of pillows? I think a sofa looks finished, but not crowded, with 2 square matching pillows (18-22"), one in each corner, and a contrasting smaller square (14-18") or oblong pillow on one side. For some reason, round pillows never look right on a sofa to me.

Kelly Pillow suggestion above my thinking as well. Like the rug- although would have probaly preferred an all over pattern as opposed to one with a border- the rooms just feels a little more modern than the traditional border rug. Is there a center medallion too?

cmcole1121 Thanks for your comments on rug, I think we are going to go for it! No it doesn't have a center medallion (Marengo from pottery barn). I do plan on adding other pillows (most likely ikat pillow posted earlier) just haven't bought yet. The pale blue rectangular pillow in pic was meant to compliment. Do u not think it would work?

Kelly Hey! Works color wise, but I think you can mix it up with more pattern and textures

Kelly Have you been to Joss and Main website? They have some amazing rugs right now.

cmcole1121 Thanks - yes I have been to joss and main & like a lot of their stuff (have u ordered from there? Is quality good?). I am much more traditional and with how expensive rugs can be don't want to be too trendy. I do like some of the geometric rugs (zig zag, Greek key, etc) but i don't feel like they would be good for the living room. However, If u have any specific suggestions I'd love to see them.

Kelly I have gotten a few things and have not been disappointed. Rugs can be crazy expensive- that is why I am always on the hunt for less expensive ones- and Joss has delivered. I am off to feed my children- but will send a few pictures in a bit. Can you take and post a few more shots from other angles in the room - that would be awesome...I also think a pop of tourquise (that can not be spelled right) would be fab. I am eclectic in style- love the traditional with modern elements...I will be happy to give my 2 cents :) you have a great room to play with.

cmcole1121 Kelly - thanks for your help! If u look at the original post u will see the pics from different angles right after we painted. The only stuff staying in room will be sofa, chairs, coffee and end tables. I have gotten a lot of great ideas on here and am moving forward with some but am definitely interested in other thoughts.

shortped I like the idea of triptych for the horizontal pic behind sofa, but my favorite since u like varying shades of blues is #2

shortped Lamps

shortped More lamps

shortped Mirrors

cmcole1121 Thanks @shortped - I do like the idea of the triptych (I didn't know that was a word :-) but not sure about that particular one. I actually ordered lamps which should be delivered soon ;-). I'm hoping that I love them, if not I'll revisit.
I am still considering mirrors and like the style of the round one you attached - where is it from?

shortped Caronsbeachhouse.com
I also really like the taller silver bamboo-like lamp
There have been so many comments that I am now confused to what you have picked so far....the rug from PB and the etageres from Ballard. What else?

cmcole1121 So far I've purchased the white lamps and garden stool. I am leaning towards the rug, ettagiere, a round mirror i posted earlier, ikat pillows for sofa. just need to pull the trigger on these things (it's a lot to do at once). And I know there is still more - ugh!!!

I know it's getting a bit confusing ;-).

Kelly I bet your head is spinning, hang in there...and don't rush too much to fill it all up...you may need to live with it a bit... I really like the zebra rug that was posted earlier ...and love the white lamp. You may consider adding a little ribbon band detail to the bottom of shade to break it up and add a bit of lux. This is a thread I will continue to follow- great people and suggestions on here!

cmcole1121 Kelly - thanks! I'm fighting the urge to do everything at once ;-)

Rhonda Linderman Place the chairs on the side with the windows, put the couch across from the chairs with the table in the middle. Will make room larger. Add some greys and blues,

mjmil Love all of the choices you have made and that you are sharing them with us. You have wonderful tasted.

cmcole1121 Ok I have a few other pillows to run by the group - I'm thinking I want to go more blue than gray accent on the couch to brighten. I'm afraid of too much grey/ muted blue tones in room and want to brighten. What do u think of the attached (vs blue & grey ikat posted earlier)?? I still love other pillow but think it may b too gray.

lpmenache I like pillow #1 and 4 and they appear to compliment your rug and give some life to the room.
In regards to the mirror I agree it should not be square or rectangular but someting that has some movement but also something not totally round. It jsut needs to be an interesting shape.

cmcole1121 I'm leaning towards pillow #1 - think it will add more color but still work with rug. What color should I do for 3rd accent pillow (I'd do 2 of the ikat)?

bluenan I agree, 1 and 4, but I like #1 best. I know from experience, trial and error, that working with blue can be tricky. When you keep everything greyed and muted you get harmony, but not much punch. When you add in a more vivid blue it can throw some of the other muted elements off. You'll figure it out.

bluenan When you select your art for over the sofa a particular color might jump out at you as the perfect accent. Some examples of ideas other than just blue and white and grey taken from the rug and complimentary to the grey sofa.

cmcole1121 I like the first and 3rd ones (are they from etsy)? so u would advise I pick artwork before pillows? Makes sense - I guess I need to focus on that now :-). I prefer a painting (vs photograph) and do like seascape/nature but more impressionist style (not so literal). similar to painting i had originally hoped to use. Once I find something I will post - any ideas welcome (of course art is so personal though).

bluenan I did find those on Etsy. I really like the first and third also, especially the third which you could use to warm up the greys and blues, pull the gold from the floor and the rug, and add texture. It would look nice with the rectangular velvet pillow you had on the sofa earlier, also. I think a pillow like that could be purchased before art, because it's a neutral. Make sure pillows are returnable in case they're not quite right when you get them in the room.

libradesigneye CC - your sofa is a taupe gray with brown, and the rug I see is a blue gray base. Your couch will always look brown against that rug - not layering the grays that you began with - more of a platinum gray is what you need. Now, it has the camel star which ties back to the couch and so you could see this as a blue tone rather than a gray. If so, make sure it is the blue shade you want - Against your couch, this will read (blue-blue) and not blue-green They work together okay, but you would get a happier color story going if you stay in the same family of gray - here platinum gray or if you go blue - thinking you were leaning towards blue green blues. IN your posting of pillows above - you have two that are blue-blue (top left, bottom right) and two that are blue-green blues. Pick one tone and repeat it before you start mixing blues and you will get a better result.

cmcole1121 Libradesigneye - I'm not sure I understand your comments. What is camel star? Are you referring to rug or pillows in your comments? The sofa is truly a grey color I think the reason it looks more brown in earlier pic is the camera more than the rug. It doesn't look like that in person. I've attached another pic of the sofa alone so u can see what I mean. I would love to better understand your earlier comments.

libradesigneye The rug you are deliberating about is a different tone of gray - that is why next to it, your couch will look more brown. I get that your couch is really gray but grays come in a wide variety of tones.

Your couch is a platinum gray. That rug is a blue-gray steel gray. The reason they look good next to each other is that the camel element in the steel gray rug relates back to your taupe gray / platium gray couch. So, then the rug has to read as a muted blue tone and the question is, what kind of blues do you want to layer in. The rug is gorgeous but will make your couch look off from where you are heading or if it reads blue, then maybe not quite right for your room blue wise if you want to use blue-green blues as accents. Hope this is more clear -

cmcole1121 thank you for explaining, i understand now :-). Although i am more drawn to the blue-blues (sky, porcelain, gray, etc) - while i do love some of the blue-green colors i am not always drawn for decorating (ugh). I know i have to pick and pretty much stick with it which is why i'm more comfortable in the blue-blue zone. Although I am concerned that the blue-blue direction that i am headed with more greyer blues might be too bland with the grey couch. i do love the idea of bringing in some darker/brighter blue-blues to bring more color and break it up (like the blue ikat pillow added earlier (#1) - or even the idea of the yellow ikat posted by bluenan earlier to complement.
Do you think that this rug will work against me in the room? i really hate shopping for rugs and love this one so wanted to make it work - but maybe it isn't the right place for it.

cmcole1121 what about this rug? i love it too and has no competing gray, just porcelein blue and white

libradesigneye I can see why you love it - it is really pretty and that is why I mentioned the blue blues - using it as a muted blue element in the space. I think you might want to see if you can find something similar in a silver / platinum tone or camel before you commit / use it in a different room. I would not worry about blue-blues with gray at all - there is cobalt for punch - and pops of yellow or honey tones when you start to blend fabrics will work great.

Evette Kallah curious to where you purchased your sofa from? Im starting my living room that is completely empty. In the same boat as you, but i haven't even purchased furniture yet.

cmcole1121 Evette - it is the Aidan Sofa from Crate and Barrel. If you can see it in person in the store it is really much more beautiful in person than in photos. i'm very happy with it. good luck!

Libradesigneye - thanks for your continued advice :-). did you see the pic of the rug i just added a few minutes ago? thoughts?

lpmenache In regards to the pillow, I would go with teh IKAT and then choose something a different colorto contrast with the IKAT so they will all stand out. 2 IKAT and One of the other. also go with a rug that has more blues than grays.

cmcole1121 So excited my new garden seat arrived today :-). I uploaded a pic. I'm still working on finalizing mirror and rug. Next week my new lamps will arrive ;-).

Eileen A. Art work to the walls, Ad splashes of Color touches of orange, blue and purple, personally I will opt to Paint the tables dark brown or dark bronze.

zindor Shortped, you posted a photo of a silver lamp that looks like a hanging lantern. Can you provide the source, please. I LOVE IT!

libradesigneye Love that new rug too.

brody1313 Love your room, you have a great start.......like all of bluenan's suggestions......definitely a round mirror over mantle, love the idea of the garden seat and can't wait to see the new lamps, they look great.......I would suggest to be careful of adding more "legs" in your room... be aware you already have alot of square/rectangle shapes in your room...consider a chest as suggested (gives great storage).......not a fan of bookshelves...they can give a cluttered look really fast..so far your room is very serene...I think the blues will look great.....keep it soft and simple......adding round and sculptured shapes ...good luck,

shortped Zindor....it is above....caronsbeachhouse.com

shortped Pillows

shortped More pillows

shortped Pillows and rug

shortped Trunk

cmcole1121 Shortped - where did u find that rug? I like it.

anitajoyce What colors do you like?

dallasstudent13 I love your wall color

diva23 Hi, I love the room, where did you get the tables, I am looking for tables for my living room. I can't wait to see it come together.

cmcole1121 What are thoughts on the attached rug? a bit darker blues but very pretty. Would this work with my sofa/room?

cmcole1121 Thanks all! Tables are from Pottery Barn Tanner. Wall color s BM Edgecomb Gray (love it).

shortped Home decorators

shortped Thought with that rug then could add different shades of blue, tie the gray in, and also bring in some other neutral like pic of pillow next to it...I have that rug picked for me and I also love PB

shortped Pics from etsy

plaidpony replace those lamps with something clean and contemporary (and matching ones on either side of the sofa) then put something significant over the sofa- either one LARGE painting, or 2 large paintings......or a mirror flanked by artwork.

MyCraftWork, LLC Everything we do at MCW is custom made from the highest materials. Here's a couple of suggestions for a custom made mirror and lantern. Mirror is made of Nickel Silver (containing REAL Silver) and lamp is made with aged brass.
Contact us for more info!

cmcole1121 Thanks for ideas - lamps have been purchased. Still finalizing mirror, rug, and accent pillows. Next step is art and other furniture. All ideas welcome - I'm currently obsessing on rugs. Have a few that I like but want to make sure they work in room

Susan Mills Design Christine, not sure if this was suggested or not, but I really like all the beautiful soft hues of the rugs and art you have been showing us. The one thing that stood out for me from your first pictures of your home, is that the black framed glass tables are not as perfect for your room as they could be. I would paint them a dull silver. This would allow your rug and accessories to really shine in your room. Otherwise I feel the shape of them will stand out too much on those lovely rugs, instead of working as a whole. Lay a kitchen towel or pillow case in the same hues and look down through and around your table and see it that way to get the idea of it. Hope that helps.

cmcole1121 Susan - thanks for the idea.mi appreciate it and It makes sense but I'm not sure I want to paint the tables just yet ( just bought them :-)). I'll keep in mind though. what do u think about the rugs? Do u think original Maren rug I posted works or is it too grey/brown and blends to sofa? Would most recent or rug posted by shortped work better? I'm kind of back and forth on blues to use in rug.

MyCraftWork, LLC Ever heard of the Moroccan Beni Ourain rugs? Check out our Pinterest board dedicated to these beautiful works of art, and let us know if you need any help locating one. Of course, no two rugs will ever be alike, but we can certainly locate "similar" styled pieces, and get you the best pricing.
It would ship directly from Morocco.
Here's the link:
http://pinterest.com/mycraftwork/moroccan-beni-ourain-rugs/

Susan Mills Design Christine, I like all three of them, really liked the muted look of the first, I think it would look great, but would suggest strongly painting the tables if you went that route. I also really like one of the lamps shortped suggested. I will repost it as there were quite a few. I took some of the ideas and put them together, really like so many of the suggestions.

cmcole1121 Thank you Susan - I appreciate your thoughts & advice. This site is so great as I never would have thought of many of the things I'm considering without it!

cmcole1121 that artwork is really not my style - thanks though.

cmcole1121 hi all - Regarding art for over sofa - what do you think about the 2 paintings attached. Bluenan thanks for suggestion of the 2nd one. If anyone has other suggestions of similiar types of paintings. Also, how big should the painting (with frame) be for over sofa - sofa is 86 inches long.

Also ? about round mirror over FP - how big should it be (what's too small). My mantle is 78 in long.

After much deliberation i think i am going to stick with my initial gut feeling and go with the first rug i posted (lighter blue). i appreciate everyone's comments either pro or con - hope it's the right decision :-).

cmcole1121 LOVE this painting - unfortunately it is way too tall and way too expensive for me. any ideas of where i could find similar? what are thoughts on pics posted in previous post.

anthip Love that. Where's it from?

cmcole1121 The last one is sold on Horchow - beautiful! What are thoughts on the 2 posted before?

shortped #1

JAMEITE Hand-painted Silk Wallpaper Co., LTD I hope you like it

cmcole1121 Pretty but I am not looking for wallpaper - just painted room. I'm looking for thoughts on artwork and advice in size of pieces (per earlier message)

azelizabeth Your room is lovely. I also would like a source for art similar to the one from horchow?

bluenan I like the first painting you posted, the textural quality is really interesting. Sometimes, as in the painting from Wisteria, it's not necessary to frame a painting if you like that look. What are the dimensions of the first painting? Btw, I do like your first rug choice the best...

shortped Thought this looked interesting because there is actual sand and pebbles added to surface.

cmcole1121 Thanks bluenan - the 1st print is 40 x 40 so I think it would definitely need a frame if I was to use it over sofa that is 86 inches long. Do u agree, think it is big enough?
I do like it - it's from Ballard.

Shobha Bhushan Floral arrangement on thefire place mantel adds a little zing to a room ,any art work whichis light and you feel is valuable will work with the decor.

bluenan I would recommend you buy some inexpensive craft paper and make two templates, one for each painting, and tape them up over the sofa with gentle painter's tape, stand back and see. A few thoughts... the Wisteria painting is an actual oil painting, where the Ballard piece is printed on paper, fused to canvas and treated to look like brush strokes of a painting. It would also need a wider (expensive) frame. For the same price you can get an actual oil painting from Wisteria, but that piece is 48" tall so you'd have to make sure it fits well vertically. If you wanted to frame it, because of the size, a narrow frame like the Horchow painting would work best. Decisions, decisions!

cmcole1121 Thanks bluenan - I will definitely follow your suggestion about outlining on wall to see. Good points about the two prints - I will see and let u know where I net out. What are your thoughts on size of mirror over FP. Round Mirror I'm leaning towards is 34 in diameter. Is that too small for 78 inch mantle or ok?

Kelly https://www.jossandmain.com/Feizy-Saphir-Rug~FZ1610~E3716.html
I found this rug today and thought of your room.

cmcole1121 Thanks Kelly - although I can't tell which rug you were referring to? Wild u mind telling me the name or attaching the photo?

bluenan I think the proportions of the mirror to the mantle are good. If it was much bigger it might crowd the ceiling and it will give you room on the mantle to add tall things on each side. I have a round mirror over my fireplace with 19.5" on either side and I like it. Here are a few pics of fireplaces with round mirrors in a variety of proportions. Some of these ceilings are higher and that factors in to the size of the mirror. I don't think I explained it very well, but to test painting sizes I'd make a paper square and a paper rectangle of the two different sized paintings and then use a little painter's tape on each corner to hold the paper to the wall, the less tape the better.

bluenan If anyone has a different opinion on the mirror size, please express it!

cmcole1121 Very helpful! Thanks so much! I love that u found a photo with the mirror I want over a FP! Sealed the deal for me :-).

anthip Thanks. Pretty pricey on Horchow... Lovely piece though.

Angelina Vick Checked back in to see how your room is coming along.

I noticed you said you had issues with the size of your print.

Angelina Vick Those are a few options that I think would make a great statement above your couch. I noticed you are leaning to minimalist work.

The print up to 84 inches.

http://angelina-vick.artistwebsites.com/featured/5-water-angelina-vick.html

Great choice on the mirror! =D

cmcole1121 yay - i ordered a mirror and rug! lamps should arrive tomorrow! just need to finalize artwork, sofa pillows and bookcase and i will take a break for a bit :-). i'll post pics when i have some changes to the room!

Angelina Vick Awesome...=)

I think the mirror is going to be really fitting for you space. Which rug did you end up picking?

I was looking at the idea of adding a frame to the piece of art you have, maybe a dark wood thick frame would fill out the space well. The art shouldn't be the length of the couch. But...I still think a rectangular piece would suit the wall better than a square.

Angelina Vick I know a lot of great artists. Do you know what kind of art you imagine in the space? I could offer some ideas for you.

It seems like you are leaning to minimalist...and maybe the sea?

Shobha Bhushan The art work you have already will work,just tie it all up and relax,we shall see the pics and then go on

cmcole1121 I agree - I think I'm good with artwork just need to see which works best in my space.

Angelina Vick Sorry...the thread is long...which pieces do you already have?

I thought you had said it was too small.

cmcole1121 Angelina - I am currently considering 2 different pieces. I appreciate you trying to help and your work is beautiful, just not what I'm looking for.

Angelina Vick I understand. No problem...I thought you were still trying to pick a piece but I didn't know you had narrowed it down.

I take it that you don't want help with that decision then? Choose the one you love! =D

cjohnston Have you looked at overstock.com for artwork? You can get some nice pieces between $100 and $200. You might try searching artists Kim Coulter and Caroline Gold, who seem to have the style you're drawn to. I like bluenan's idea of cutting out paper in the size of the art to see if it's right for over your sofa.

ecci Would you like to implement your creativity by using handcrafted natural wall panels for your home?
Look here for the endless possibilities, and please leave your feedback:
http://eccidesign.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=banner&utm_campaign=messages5

cmcole1121 My new lamps arrived today. I took a picture and am wondering what people think? The lighting isn't great in pic but u should be able to get an idea (this is at night with limited lighting).
I def want to replace the shades because there is a pattern & when lights are on I don't like how it looks (pic attached). What are thoughts on lamps, shade shape, etc?

As for artwork I am definitely going to put paper up on wall to see what sizes work best before finalizing.

Angelina Vick I like the shape of the lamps...it's a nice compliment to the rounded end tables. The shades will be a great opportunity to add another texture to the space.

cmcole1121 Any suggestions for large replacement lamp drum shades to complement my space? They really need to be light enough though to light the room (need lamps for functionality as well as decor). See previous post for pics of lamps and space (rug is light gray/blue). I really don't like these.

Angelina Vick I'm looking around...some look pretty, but if it has any pattern at all, then who knows what the light will look like coming through it?

I am going to post a few links for you to check out, but if it were me...I think I would go check them out in person, especially if I was particular about how well they light the room.

http://www.lampsusa.com/drum-LampShades.aspx

http://www.potterybarn.com/shop/lighting/shades-accessories/lamp-shades/

http://www.target.com/c/lamp-shades-bases-lamps-lighting-home-decor/-/N-5xttk

Shobha Bhushan You can combine two kinds of pillows,one is grey rectangle with dots square ,on the other end the ikat type and rectangular navy floral one will surely work,try to visualize and you will see my point

Andrea Prasch Christine I have been following this for awhile and love all the choices you made and love seeing your pictures! I also understand how frustrating it is waiting on things to arrive to finish your space!

Shobha Bhushan Patience is a virtue my friend just trust yourself and the direction of decor ,I have been giving advice on alot to my friends and they are happy with the results.Just remember to take one day at a time

lpmenache lamps plus and restoration hardware usually have a nice selection of shades. I would go with a solid color since you are planning pattern on the pillows and you dont want it to be competing with the painting that you chose.
In regards to the mirror size do the same thing you are doing with the paintings and make a template and see how it looks. If too small try using it off center and then maybe prop a smaller painting to one side and then a cool tall vase, or sculpture to the side on teh mantle for a layered but fun collage application. This will give the room some depth and still keep the clean vibe of the room.

tatjanaoh some ideas

tatjanaoh more fotos

tatjanaoh http://www.overstock.com/Home-Garden/Area-Rugs/244/cat.html
for rugs,with blue elements:0

tatjanaoh some ideas white-blue-black

tatjanaoh they have wery nice crtains-with blue
http://www.etsy.com/listing/116597362/pair-of-decorative-designer-custom

Shobha Bhushan I think you can choose navy blue plain tray and a area rug just a size bigger than your central tableI would choose a set of turquioe blue plates ,mug and cup as accesories to give it a complete look.
The curtains inetsy.com listing is pretty but the price is steep.I suggest you try in Macy,bed bath or other stores ,cost plus improrts have some good fabrics

bluenan Hi There,
It's probably best to buy lampshades locally so you can really see exactly what you're getting. Take a lamp along with you so you can try a new shade on in the store. Look for paper or a tight weave linen-look shade in either a straight or tapered drum. Good luck...

cmcole1121 Lpmenache and bluenan - do you like the lamp itself if i replace the shade (probably a solid white drum shade)? i do like the shape and the color - are they the right size, proportion? i am having a hard time telling if i like since the rest of my items still need to be delivered/finalized.

i am thankful for the advice about the lamp shades and every thing else :-).

Shobha & Tatjanaoh - i have already decided on a rug but appreciate the advice and like a lot of your suggestions. Angelina - thanks for lamp shade thoughts.

bluenan I like the lamps, definitely large enough, but I agree a different shade would work better. Try putting the paper cutouts of the art work up over the sofa, it will allow you to visualize the final product. I think the blank wall is throwing you off. Also remember when you get the pillows on the sofa that will add weight and help to balance the size of the lamps. Sometimes I think a large straight sided drum shade can look top heavy, try a tapered shade and see how you like that.

kellychristine7 I would go with teal accents. Just enough without over doing it. I would keep the wall color and a add a teal rug such as one from PBteen also add small little teal things that you can find at pier 1 or home goods. For pillows pier 1 has a great selection. It looks good so far just keep on adding the details.

cjohnston The lamps are fantastic and the perfect size for your space, but I can see why you want to replace the shades. I think a tapered shade would work, as suggested by bluenan. Are you still deciding on a bookcase? Although I like the Ballard bookcase posted earlier, I think another solid black piece takes the room towards matchy. Consider something that incorporates the lighter tones in the rug and your flooring.

cmcole1121 I haven't purchased a bookcase yet (trying to pace myself. :->). I appreciate the comments about becoming too matchy and I agree I don't want that (although I do love that piece). i like the 1st & 3rd pics cjohnston posted. I think 1st is Ballard but where is the 3rd piece from?
Although I'm remembering back that someone had prev told me I should add a black piece in order to tie in the chairs (right now chairs are the only black). Thoughts? What if I did black bookcase and then a console or cabinet in the lighter color?

As for lamps thanks for the feedback & advice - I will definitely see how tapered looks and head to store to look at shades. Im headed out of town for a few days but will work on that and the artwork mock up when I get back this weekend.
Thanks again - this site is so great and has helped me so much!

cjohnston The 3rd piece is Horchow...there should be a link under the photo that brings up the info - let me know if it isn't there. Personally, I like the 1st piece (or similar) for the bookshelf and then a lighter console or cabinet. The 1st piece takes the guess work out of mixing finishes since it combines a dark frame with lighter wood shelves. I think the black chairs already tie in with the rest of the room, since the legs on sofa, frames on end/coffee tables, fireplace and hearth are all black. You could also go with black frames on art, black curtain rods, etc.

Shobha Bhushan Unless your budget is high I suggest you dont paint ,be willing to try and merge as suggested.For the lamp shade one with light blue dash prints as seen ina earlier photo will work well.Guess you are confused.Just pay heed to my other comments and do send a pic.You will see the results quick

cmcole1121 Cjohnston - good points about the black in room. Very helpful! I like those from Ballard but I don't think it had good reviews. I'll take a look again. Thanks again!

cmcole1121 Shobha - I'm really not sure what you mean. I am not confused, just asking for advice on decorating a room from scratch. I already painted the room & am not considering repainting. Since posting this I have made some decisions (as outlined in this lengthy post). I appreciate all input but something's have already been decided (based on very helpful feedback from site). Hope this better explains - if you are interested you can read through the posts to see where I am currently.

cmcole1121 Cjohnston - looked @ shelves again and I was wrong about reviews. Funny thing - I had initially been looking at this set for coffee table but decided to go with the glass. I'll show my husband - I have a Ballard coupon do would love to be able to use :-).

Angelina Vick I look forward to seeing how it comes together. =)

lpmenache I do like your lamps very much. Love the lucite base. The drum shade is more "au curant" while the tapered will be more classical. The tapered will give you a lighter feeling because it is less voluminous than the drum. If the shade store is local I would buy one of each and try them. Dont do this till painting is up and pillows in if you can stand to live with shades for a little while. It will make a difference. What is next on the agenda?

Shobha Bhushan I meant that the colrs you have painted the walls are fine,may be some communication gap,I understand your dilemma about a few things ,my friend you are going along well,my suggestion was in reference to the lamp shade.
Actually at times I think we feel a bit overwhelmed when a lot of suggestions come pouring ,So I thought you should not get confuse yourself,that is all.I am following the post and can see your progress.
AS a few are done if you post pics it will help us

pattiegoode You have a gorgeous room & very classy furniture! I just read your discussion today and you have already made many of your decisions. However, here's my two cents worth:
I'd like to see a bit of black in your rug (to unite your other pieces). I agree with a previous post that you have a lot of legs showing and new pieces should go all the way to the floor. This includes whatever book shelf you purchase. I'm not sure what you plan to do in this room. Read? Entertain? Snuggle by the fire? This should inform other decisions. Maybe you'd like a game table or a bar area. It looks like there is room for a table to the left of the FP in front of the window. This could be either natural wood, antiqued paint, or skirted. This will give you another place to add in some of the ikat fabric you like. Even if you don't hang your inspiration print over the FP, I hope it can find a home on the mantel. Otherwise, it could hang on the wall near the table area I mentioned. I personally like a white on white sheer w/ a design and solid colored panels on either side of windows. I'll try to find a pic. A bar area is another opportunity to add shiny reflective surfaces like glass & metal. Have you considered painting your own piece using the blue-washed artwork you like? Or stretching a piece of ikat fabric? ;)

cjohnston That's awesome that you had already looked at that Ballard set. I'm glad the reviews were good. Hope your husband likes it too. Plus, gotta love those coupons! Let us know what you decide (which you're really good at...and makes this process a lot of fun!).

cmcole1121 Will do! Thanks! I'm traveling but my husband just told me my rug arrived today :-). When I get home ill share updated pics.

I guess next will be finalizing which art to hang over the sofa (once I put mock ups up), sofa pillows then start discussing curtains and what to do with other space in the room. I've gotten a lot of really great ideas so far about shelves, cabinets, consoles and once I'm able to focus on that I will hopefully be able to make some decisions :-).

Should I start a new topic to ask about curtains and other furniture ideas or just keep this long one going?? Thoughts?

lpmenache Keep the same thread otherwise you will get lots of suggestions on things that have been decided moreso than if you kept the same thread. cant wait to see the pictures with the rug.

zindor Christinemcole, are you still trying to decide on artwork? I saw the post about the price concern and had an interesting idea. If you have a local college in your area, there may be a campus gallery featuring the work of art students. Usually, the prices are lower than you would expect for comparable art in a gallery. It might be worth a look, if you have the time. Last year, I purchased an amazing painted canvas at my local university, which is why I thought of this option. Also, you would own something that is one of a kind, as opposed to a mass-market piece, at it might even cost much less. If you've already made your selections, just ignore this!

cmcole1121 Once again great advice! Yes I am still deciding on art. Have a few I like but I just need to see how the size works with sofa/space. However it is a great idea to check out student work! I will definitely keep in mind. Ill post once I have the sized paper up on wall to ask advice :-).

pattiegoode I would never choose artwork based on just the size I want or that I feel meets someone's idea of a rule. Only buy things you love, love, love! And if you love something & want it in the room, there must be a way to make that work! I'm saying don't obsess over the size of the wall hanging, please. Just be patient and gather other items til you see the piece that speaks to you and you will "just know" that it will work over your sofa. You can check out this website for more info on what to hang on your wall:
http://decodingdecor.com/?p=841

I'm posting because I was searching for something else today & saw this table that made me think of your room! Hope you like it:
http://www.iometro.com/furniture/dining-room/dining-tables/alden-dining-table-48-round

http://www.iometro.com/prodimg/768/enlarged/7681209001.jpg

pattiegoode Sorry the image doesn't show up!

Shobha Bhushan I had a peek at the site decoding decor.com,good tips,try some thing if you own art work

Angelina Vick I wouldn't base it on only the size either...but size does play a consideration when it's going to be a design decision. Especially when trying to achieve a specific look.

My style in my dining area/book nook area is a lot more polished. Specific colors and metal decor. Unlike my living room which has multiple pieces and styles, it's eclectic and that works too.

I don't buy art unless I love it.

There is so much art...and when it's something you will look at everyday...there is no reason to buy something less than what I adore.

Shobha Bhushan I think your decor is coming up well.MY suggestion is to have a ceramic painted plate to be kept on the central table ,not on the top but below in second shelf so to say ,it will appear like you are seeing thru a glass ,which in reality is but the look and effect are stunning.I have this idea which is a oval central focal point and I love the look.Will try to send some pic

kcalman I read above that you like abstract seascapes. This might be too literal for you, but I just bought a painting from this artist and it's beautiful. http://www.etsy.com/shop/traceynicholas?ref=seller_info Love your couch btw!

cmcole1121 Thanks @kcalman - I like those. Which painting did you get? Do u really love it? Did you get a large or small painting? I haven't looked at all of her stuff (just a few) but they are pretty - I will definitely look at her entire etsy store. I appreciate the suggestion.

kcalman http://www.etsy.com/listing/125779006/summertime-blues-original-oil-painting?ref=usr_faveitems
This is the one I bought. It arrived today and I love it even more than I thought I would. Colors are really beautiful without being too bright. I think the blues would like nice with the grey in your room. Mine is considered large on the seller's website. It's 24x36 inches. It looks a little small to me over my very deep fireplace mantle, but I might just add a simple white frame. Good luck!

cmcole1121 My mirror arrived! I think it is the perfect size and I really like it. It has more of a gold tone than I thought but I think it works - thoughts?? I need to hang it still.
Only problem is it is cracked :-(. Will have to see how to handle - anyone with experience with Hayneedle?

bluenan Hi There,
The size looks perfect! I like the color, it's more of a warm silver that looks good with the floor and will look nice with the rug. Bummer about the crack, they should have a good return policy, just notify them right away and ask for return shipping.

Angelina Vick That mirror is beautiful. I think it makes a great statement. Sorry, I have no experience with Hayneedle. Most places do returns of damaged items for free though. Good luck!

cmcole1121 Thanks! So another question about bookcases. I have been considering the black one from Ballard but it was revved toy suggested that this other lighter wood and metal bookcase may be better as I already have a it of black in room. Thoughts? Another suggestions?

I am leaning towards putting on wall next to doorway to TV room and leaving other wall for console table and / or cabinet.

I have a coupon to Ballard that expires tmrw and am thinking about purchasing,

Andrea Prasch Love the mirror above the mantle! It looks just like mine. I call it "antiqued" because it's not really just flat gold. I'm sorry its cracked. Call their customer service asap. As for the bookcase I vote Ballard because it has that awesome design to it that adds some interest. Plus you have a coupon :)

Angelina Vick Your welcome. Hmm....that hard. I really like the look of the dark wood one. The design is really interesting...more interesting to look at. However, I am sure that have lighter colors in the room would create nice contrasts and tie into the lighter colors in the room.

I don't think you could actually go wrong with either one.

They would each just bring a different element. Which do you think makes the statement that most compliments your room? Creative design or nice contrasts?

Angelina Vick Did you notice the Bourdonnais Bookcase comes in Mahogany and Belgium Oak?

I think the Mahogany would bring some warmth in and also tie in well with the room.

It's a Beautiful World! Christine, we happen to have a panoramic piece of art in blue. Since it is digital art, the shade of blue can be adjusted to meet your decorating needs, we do it all the time when we work with designers. Also, the image can be printed in virtually any custom size, up to 72" long, on art paper or canvas.

http://ben-and-raisa-gertsberg.artistwebsites.com/featured/island-ben-and-raisa-gertsberg.html

And here is one more image from our portfolio here, on Houzz, that might work: water themed abstraction, in cool colors, it is in one of our ideabooks. Again, the colors can be fine-tuned and it can be printed in custom sizes, on fine art paper or canvas.


Angelina is right about the size of art on your walls, it is important to have your artwork in the right size, for overall visual balance in the room. Ordering fine art prints, as opposed to original paintings, has an advantage of getting exactly the size you need, provided you like the artwork, of course... Raisa

cmcole1121 For bookcases - I'm hoping to get some more thoughts on this. I like the black one more but am cautious of being too matchy. I do like the other as well (balance of lighter wood with metal). My initial thoughts were that adding a mahogany type wood wouldn't work - agree?

Thanks! Andrea- is your mirror "distressed" looking? I ask because in addition to the crack there are other areas where it looks off but I think that may be part of the look. I def love it and thank u for your advice earlier (on your thread).

bluenan I wonder with your metal coffee table and end tables if another metal wouldn't be too much of the same material. The black bookcase will add weight, visual interest with the cross-bars, and wood, which you really don't have that much of. The coffee and end tables don't look like a dark black, aren't they bronze? Go with the black, that seems to be the one you truly love, it will look great.

lovliny I have been following your decorating project and think the outcome will be stunning when finished. I definitely like the Ballard bookcase much better for your room. To me it has the same sense of style as the other pieces in your room. Initially I felt the lamps were too large for your tables but hopefully everything will blend in nicely when you add your accessories. Love the mirror! The size is perfect and it adds a bit of sparkle.

cmcole1121 Update! My rug arrived and I think it is great! I'm really excited my room is coming together :-). Thoughts? I still need to deal with artwork for over sofa but now seeing rug and sofa any new thoughts on pillows - thoughts on gold ikat pillow or blue attached?

I am going to order the black bookcase tonight for the far wall in 2nd pic. The floor lamp by door is really just there for light until I can place other lamps. Also if you have ideas for windows I think now is the time :-).

wickedwhite Wow! Your room has come a long way. I love how it's all coming together. The rug is a great choice. And the mirror is stunning.. perfect shape, size and colour.. and it really lights up the room. Pillow choices are also great. I prefer the one on the right. Is it blue or grey?

Andrea Prasch I love your new rug and that set of 3 pillows for your space! It is coming together beautifully. Also yes my mirror is distressed as well

Andrea Prasch I just bought these for my living room and I and I love them

bluenan The rug looks great, really pulls the room together! I like the gold ikat, perhaps one on each side with the blue grey velvet pillow you already own on one side. I feel like the gold may be a good counterpoint to the blue and grey. It's hard to tell true colors on our monitors, now that you have the rug it may be an easier decision for you.

bluenan I found a pillow with blue and honey.

cmcole1121 Thanks for the comments ;-). I attached the gold pillow mentioned - thoughts on this vs blue ikat options? Andrea - where did u get your curtains?

wickedwhite I like the gold. It will tie in your rug and mirror.

lpmenache Room looks great! I like all the different pillows. Since changing out the pillows is the easiest thing to do, nail down your over sofa painting and then chose pillows, easier than the other way around. Same goes for your new lamp shades.

Angelina Vick If it were me, I wouldn't get a few different pillows, the variations will be good for the room. .

The room is coming together fantastically!

Are you happy with it? =)

travisinteriors I would put a bigger and taller chest in color maybe red on wall by window. Lamps should be a lot taller on end tables. Try silver with white shades. Or lucite with lite gray shades. Add some small silk plants for interest. On coffee table a med size silver bowl with green apples. Toss pillows in different shades of green put some in print. Add throw in lime green on chair.you need A big piece of art over sofa. Contemporary . 40x40 with lots of color. Check TJMax, for accents great price.

travisinteriors Take lamp off little table and if you can't change table out for heavier chest. Add art work over it. Remember no more than 4" above table also sofa. Hang art low. You need a big 9x12 area rug. Pick color that you want in room. You can do print with color or maybe a thick zebra rug.

cmcole1121 Travisinteriors - thank you for your comments. a lot has happened with my room since my original post - if you want to see where i am currently please scroll to bottom and you will see current room with rug, mirror over FP, lamps, etc. i ordered a new black bookcase for use in the room but the other 2 wood pieces (brown bookcase and demilune) can be replaced with other things so i am open to additional ideas. also i am currently trying to finalize a piece of art for over FP. i also will need to focus on window treatments soon and am open to ideas.

cmcole1121 what are thoughts on updating window treatments? i want to update with curtains (i like idea of drapes) - advice on color/pattern? as mentioned, this room doesn't get a lot of light but do need for some privacy.

also, for the 2 walls on one side of room (currently where bookcase and demilune table) - i'm thinking about a console table on one wall and a cabinet of some kind on the other. planning on holding off on purchasing until i find stuff i really love but am looking for some ideas of what colors/styles might work with the rest of the room. I have already been given great advice to watch for too many more legs as i have a lot and think i need to bring in some color or metal tones so as to give balance avoid being too matchy matchy.

lpmenache - thanks i know you are right but the artwork is so much harder to finalize than pillows :-).

bluenan Pleated linen drapes on a bronze rod with rings for easy open and close is a classic look for windows.

insidet My first thought is that you are desperately in need of the addition of textiles, that will offer a variety of texture and warmth. Since this is a family/living room, comfort as well as aesthetics should be considered. The two chairs flanking the fireplace are exactly the same giving the room a generic 'office waiting room' feel. Add different textiles on them. One a pillow with wool or embroidery or velvet. The other a nice cashmere throw blanket with a pattern or rich color. a flat print pillow won't do what needs to be done in here.

CMR Interiors & Design Consultations Inc. Love this ikat rug:

lovliny Agree with the pinch pleated drapes but this is where your pattern should come in and then pillows and lastly artwork. The pillows should pick up on a color in the patterned drapes (in my opinion). It seems an easier way to go.

bluenan Nice drapes can be quite an investment and we all know that pattern trends come and go, the chevrons and ikats of today will be the pink cabbage rose of the 90's. Using colors and pattern on pillows and accessories that can be more easily changed out with the trends will extend the life of your interior, imho...

mjmil How about drapes like these from JC Penny: http://www.jcpenney.com/dotcom/trivoli-rod-pocket-curtain-panel/prod.jump?ppId=1b784c3&Nao=96&pageSize=96&pN=2&searchTerm=drapes&dimCombo=null&dimComboVal=null&catId=SearchResults

jccbaker My suggestion for your windows is crisp white drapes. Linens4Less has some nice pinch pleated drapes.

Angelina Vick The rug is perfect. =)

I agree on the point that the curtains are a chance to bring additional textiles. You have a lot of formality to your room. It is beautiful and comfortable...but I think the right curtains will soften it.

This came to mind.

http://www.overstock.com/Home-Garden/Lara-96-inch-Shimmer-Panel-Window-Curtain/7463321/product.html?cid=202290&kid=9553000357392&track=pspla&ef_id=ULfCVwAAUZqwZopk:20130320054147:s

Particularly the taupe.

Angelina Vick On the other hand...if you want to lean into the formal look.

http://www.overstock.com/Home-Garden/Venetian-Grommet-Top-96-inch-Curtain-Panel/5723814/product.html

pattiegoode Just a reminder of your inspiration.

pattiegoode For that reason, I'm in favor of white at your windows - in whatever mode makes you happy: blinds, sheers, panels, drapes, a print that is predominately white, etc...

Andrea Prasch Believe it or not Ikea! I was amazed with the quality and they have a gorgeous sheen to them! Here's the link...
http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/90196347/

Andrea Prasch Here they are and sorry for the horrible lighting and camera phone picture but they look so much better in person. I tried to capture the sheen with a flash.

cmcole1121 i am thinking that I want to stay with more classic curtains (rather than too trendy). While I'm leaning to solid colors I would however be open to a subtle pattern. I do like the idea of adding some shine to the room. What are thoughts on a light blue curtain, or should I stick with white or another color? Any specific suggestions? I have seen a few I like which I will try to link to later (not sure how to do that from mobile app).

Also I've been given advice to put rod above window- any recommendations on how to handle the radiators that sit under 2 of the 3 windows?

Thanks for the advice already given ;-)

pattiegoode What's your budget range?

pattiegoode Luxurious white velvet on a black/ dark rod as high as you can hang them:
http://www.restorationhardware.com/catalog/product/product.jsp?productId=prod1159290

bluenan Your windows are a bit of a challenge. The large front window is positioned higher and very close to the ceiling and the rads need to be exposed in winter. The curtains should be hung at the same height to unify the room. Woven blinds under the drapes, also hung at the same height, will give you lots of options for privacy and coverage and not cover the rads. You could get a woven wood to complement your floor, or choose from tons of other available options.

cmcole1121 bluenan - would you believe that i never noticed my windows are different heights? i realized they were different widths - but not the distance from ceiling. you bring up some good points/challenge. Does anyone else have experience/advice re: this type of situation?

Also, now that i notice this do you think that should have an impact on the size/type of whatever piece of furniture i put on that wall between the 2 windows - since they are different sizes? (for all following - i am referring to the 2 windows as seen in the 3rd photo attached to the initial post in this thread)

Finally - quick question on the Houzz mobile app - has anyone noticed that once you get to 300 comments on a thread they no longer show in the app? therefore i can't see any new comments unless i log on via the web.

kcalman I saw on another posting that you have a cat...

If you're concerned about scratching, you could try out an inexpensive pair of curtains to see how your cat reacts. Or you could just use roman blinds, plantation shutters, etc. My cats don't touch the curtains that hang to the floor, but they will scratch at them when they're covering a window with a sill that they can sit in. Our bay window is a real problem.

I'll be asking for window treatment advice in a month or two, after a new patio door is installed. I hope you and the others following this posting will comment! Your room looks great!

Is your grey couch microfiber? Where did you get it?

cmcole1121 Any one have any advice about decorating windows that are different sizes and heights? just realized i had this dilemma (thanks bluenan).

kcalman Thanks for comments - i love my couch. it is not microfiber it is fabric (houndstooth) but i don't remember the exact fabric. it's from Crate and barrell. i have a microfiber sofa in my tv room. while i do need to keep my cat in mind for all decorating decisions - i'm not as worried about the curtains. we will see though.

zindor You could hang all the rods at the same height as required by the tallest window. I had small windows in a bedroom, but hung the curtains very near the ceiling and extended them to puddle a bit on the floor. As a result, the windows appeared larger.

To accommodate your radiators, you could make the rods longer than actually necessary, letting long panels fall to either side of the radiators, which would also make your windows look quite wide. Then, use a shade or blinds to pull down to the radiator height, if you need privacy or wish to filter the light. Continue the same look on windows that do not have radiators.

I am impressed with your progress!

lpmenache Good Morning,
I would suggest stationary drapery panels at all 3 windows all hung just below ceiling molding. Behind this, at the same level as the rod, I would hang flat roman shades that will go all the way from behind your rod to the sills when needing privacy. They should be kept all at the same height when open so that all the windows will look the same size. If you can afford it a lucite rod and rings that would be fabulous. Regular 3 finger pleats or the smaller top sewn pleats would look great. What ever you do dont use grommets. ( I think they belong in a bathroom only or a very industrial look, IMHO. I agree that properly made drapes can be very expensive even at cost and fabrics can be very trendy. So I think a solid color silk( for the shimer you want) for the panels and then either a patterned roman shade or a complimentary solid color with a an interesting tape trim( Greek Key Perhaps) on the edge of the shade. This look has been around for ever and is still current today.
Your room is really coming together!

lpmenache Another idea is a striped fabric for either the shade or drapes. They will make the room look taller and draw the eye upward. Stripes have never gone out of style.

cmcole1121 zindor and lpmenache - thanks for your great ideas. very helpful. i especially like the idea about the longer rods (to account for the radiator) and height of rod. i also appreciate the thoughts on grommets - i've been wondering about those as i seem them in many places.
i will need to spend some time researching this a bit more - other ideas and recommendations are welcome.

cmcole1121 Hi - What are thoughts on the attached curtains - white silk (restoration hardware)? Also since I'm looking to have curtains frame the window I think I would stick with the 50 inch wide panels, is that right? If so what blinds/shades to go with? So far both roman shades and woven blinds have been suggested - I'm not sure which. Thoughts?

Also what are thoughts on the new white lamp shades? They still have plastic on them but u should get the idea. My only concern is when the light is on the shades don't look as white as I had hoped. Thoughts on shape, size, color?

bluenan Lamp shades look good, nice shape. I think most all shades cast off white when the lamp is on.

If you get the RH french pleat silk drape, you should use a 70" for the big window and the 46" for the smaller windows. The ones in your picture are rod pocket hung with clips. You don't want the drape on the big window to look skimpy, even if you don't plan on closing them. As for the roman shades, whether you use fabric or woven, or bamboo, it depends on the look you're after. The silk is a dressy fabric, do you want to tone it down with a more natural shade, or play it up with a fabric? It might be more difficult to find a fabric shade that looks compatible with the silk. I recommend you check some websites and order samples.

The shades should be hung with an outside mount so you can hang them all at the same height. Make sure they are measured from the outside of the window trim so you can't see that the shades on the smaller windows are hung higher than the actual window.

bluenan Here are the french pleats. Sorry, can't get the picture bigger. It's from the RH site. Order samples, there are two whites. Try the FOG also if you're ordering samples.

bluenan Here is an example of woven shades hung higher than the window and to the outside width of the window frame and woven shades with drapes, both hung at the same height.

Eidetic Digital, LLC Here is a five-foot wide photograph that might look great over the sofa or possibly the fireplace. (mouseover for full-width image) http://etsy.me/11rT0LD

cmcole1121 Thanks bluenan, I really appreciate your advice. I never would have thought of some of those things!

i think I may need to visit a professional for the windows. This may be beyond me :-). It is so expensive and a big focal point and I want to get it right - also I want to bring in some color in a subtle way and think a professional could help.

Of course other thoughts /advice is always welcome.

cmcole1121 So I finally put the outlines of the 2 paintings up on my wall and am curious as to thoughts. The pics attached to this post are the smaller piece (40x40) and the next post has larger piece (60x48).

However the outline of the larger piece is actually a few inches short on both height and width (I didn't have enough paper :-). So as u can see the bigger one would be hitting much closer to the ceiling than in pic. The smaller one could use a frame to make a bit bigger (but smaller is square vs rectangle). Please let me know your thoughts.

cmcole1121 As per previous post this is larger piece in considering. Please let me know your thoughts on which would fit space better.

cmcole1121 One more ?, would it be worth it to paint the wood chest in pic? I was thinking I could move it to the wall where demilune table is and paint it. Instead of buying something new right now. Thoughts about if this would be worth it, color to paint, etc.
Also - still looking for feedback on artwork size/selection (prev posts)

deaquinoway Instead of putting a mirror on top of the couch , you can have a Art picture ! What type no idea Depends on your taste

cmcole1121 art is going over sofa - not a mirror.

bluenan Hi There,
I think the square is too small, the proportions of the rectangular painting look better to my eye. Absolutely paint the chest, add new hardware, it might work as a bar. Not sure about colors, I'll be thinking about it and also wait for other opinions to come in.

Ann I like the larger size for your sofa art, slightly lower than the paper is taped. I love your new rug. I think I might eliminate the vase and flowers on the floor in front of the fireplace. The room is looking very nice.

bluenan I've read a lot of good comments about Annie Sloan chalk paint, I think it's a two-step process with paint and then waxes that imparts a soft, lived-in finish like the picture below. I haven't used it myself, perhaps someone who has can weigh in.

Here's a thought about the painting and the rectangular one being close to the ceiling: remember your drapes will have to be hung very close to the ceiling to accommodate the tall front window, so that height on the painting might help to balance the window treatments.

Ann I think the chest works fine where it is - possibly painted but also not sure what color. But, the silk plant next to it is way too small/short for that spot. I think you need a much taller one (to the top of the window frame) in a large ceramic container, moving the chest slightly to the left.

deaquinoway What type of art u like !!
Our u can go to website www.art.com

lovliny In an earlier post I suggested that you use a pattern on your windows. What I had in mind was a small geometric print or tone on tone but something that adds some texture. I'm attaching an example. I think your chest is fine but I would add new hardware similar to the finish of the mirror. You may have to expand the photos to see the pattern.

chelseamrk I took a quick look through this discussion and have seen you have come a long way and it looks great.

I have a few suggestions. The chest looks a bit too heavy to fit in with the rest of the room. You might want to try a console as you originally thought.

The painting is a good size over the couch. What colour frame are you thinking of and how large if any of a matt.

And for your drapes you should mount the rods at the same height and go with a white or a dark grey.

Hope this helps!

Pic #1 - console table
Pic #2 - artwork and frame
Pic #3 - Drapes and hanging

wickedwhite You should definitely paint and keep that chest. It rocks. I would change the hardware too. Give it a new life. It definitely works in your room. You could try a cream or a blue. I'm sure you'll get plenty of smart suggestions on paint colour!

wickedwhite As for the art, I prefer the first one, but the size and shape of the second one works better above your sofa. Perhaps you could go with the first and balance out with a couple of sconces on either side..? It would fill the space better. I would drop the art a couple of inches either way.

Ann On second thought, I'd eliminate the silk plant (from that spot) and not replace it with a taller one. Instead, I'd keep the chest centered (and probably painted) and add a set of two or three pictures hung vertically above it. I'd keep the width of the art just a little less than the width of the chest.

Ann I think I'd try to stick with just larger art above the sofa. Though nice, sometimes sconces tend to compete with pairs of lamps at ends of a sofa.

cmcole1121 thanks all for great comments on the cabinet. I've bought so much new stuff lately I was hoping to salvage this for now (instead of buying something new). Any other specific color suggestions?

the placement of the cabinet and fake plant are all just temporary. i am definitely not keeping the plant there (prob not anywhere). Also I have bought a new black bookshelf which I am planning on putting against the wall where cabinet is now - so I need to move it to other wall. More than likely I will look to put my lighthouse print over this cabinet.

As for art - my husband and I also thought the larger piece worked better (although it almost looked too big at first - but that's prob just me :->). I think I may order today :-)

Loveliny - thanks for the pics of curtains they are very helpful. I really liked those & am definitely not opposed to some kind of pattern. i am going to need to go and talk with someone who can help me with this (i have another room as well that needs window coverings). All these ideas are very helpful.

Ann It's all going to look great with the additions you just described! I think you'll love the room.

cmcole1121 Found another piece of art we are considering - what do u think of this vs original piece? They are both same width (60 inch) but 1st one is not as tall (30 inch vs 48). Thoughts between 2 pieces?

bluenan It's really nice! You would have to get the gold ikat pillows for that! I think the stronger colors help balance out the black in your room and might help to tie in the blue pillows you like. I don't think you really love the other painting...For paint, do you like a gloss finish or more of a satin or matte rubbed finish?

Matt Patterson Custom Homes You need art!

babzie933 Hi Christine, Just wanted to say, I love what you chose (earlier post) the slender ceramic lamps, the rug, the artwork, and I really like the wall color and the sofa! Everyone has their ideas on what to do with the space, but I think you are doing great! In the end, we always seem to gravitate to similar things. Those are the things that will make you happy! Don't forget to show us the final photos! :) Barb

cmcole1121 Bluenan- thanks for your thoughts. U have figured me out :-). I don't "love" the one piece but do like it a lot. My husband and I are drawn to this new piece I found with the bolder colors. It's on etsy and it is an original piece (although a bit more expensive). Do u think it would work with my rug? I think so.. And absolutely I would get the gold ikat pillows for sofa :-).

Matt - I know i need art, that is what my last post was about

mjmil I think I am drawn to the new piece that you found. A little bit bolder. Hope that helps.

cmcole1121 So the more I look at this new piece of art the more I really like it! Ive attached a few pics of room and artwork for opinions! I just want to make sure it will work with the rug (which I think it will). Any other Thoughts?

@babzie933 thanks so much for your comments. I appreciate it. I have had some great advice from so many that have been a huge help!
@mjmil - thanks for your comment :-)
@bluenan - thanks for the additional thoughts on cabinet and pics, they are really helpful. I have no idea what finish I prefer but think I like the 2nd pic you posted the most (shades of blue).

lovliny I like the colors and movement in the second piece of art. Art is very personal and you should just pick the one you love. You can't make a mistake because everyone looks at art differently and there is no wrong or right choice. You have already made many good decisions so trust yourself on the art. Whatever you choose is the right one.

It's a Beautiful World! Yes, if you like the artwork, especially if you like it more each time you look at it, then you should have it! You will be living in this room for a while, so you should only bring there the things you enjoy looking at... Raisa

libradesigneye cc - just checking in, so much amazing progress. The art works beautifully with the rug. The rug is just your backdrop now - love the lamps, mirror, coming together.
YES, great idea to keep and paint the chest - it wants to be a very pale mustard tone that is flat so the carved shapes pop for you in a modern way. I suggest http://www.sherwin-williams.com/homeowners/color/find-and-explore-colors/paint-colors-by-family/SW2834-birdseye-maple/ It is subtle, but echoes the gold accents you are building. You can use rub and buff or orb spray paint to update hardware before you put it back on. Find the right metal for the piece instead of worrying about matching other elements in the room - it is a stand alone.

Curtain panels need to have a print - everything you have so far is solid, and layering their textures will make a big difference. Love the idea of going over rattan to pick up a bit more gold, but here is one vote for a print at your windows. Go down to calico corners just to see if you fall in love with some print fabrics in your family.

Ann I like your new art choice and it looks like the size is a bit better - not quite as tall. It will definitely look nice with the gold ikat pillows. Really nice with the blue things on the hearth too.

cmcole1121 I bought the piece of art!!!!! YAY! Thank you all so much for your comments - they were very helpful in helping me confirm what i knew i wanted to do :-).
i also ordered the gold ikat pillows. those with the light blue pillow i have i think will look great (and if not i can try something else, right!). I also bought a light blue velvet small pillow for one of the black chairs and a blue throw for the other. I will keep everyone posted with pics once i receive everything :-).

I also appreciate the comments about the cabinet - i will tackle that next. So far i think i have suggestions for a mustard color, white, blue - any other ideas? what about a shade or 2 darker than the walls (Revere Pewter) - or is that too close in color?

libradesigneye - thanks for your comments on the curtains. i appreciate your thoughts and will keep in mind (along with other comments) when i go to the store. i'm putting windows on back burner until i get this other stuff figured out (it's too overwhelming!!).

bluenan I thought about grey, keeping the same tone, but darker like you said would be best. You'd just have to make sure it didn't look like grey primer!

Ann I kind of like what you're thinking for the cabinet - like the "shades of blue" photo that bluenan posted. I also liked the idea of the mustard color, but it would be my second choice. I'm looking forward to seeing the pictures!

Ann Also, I know you mentioned the bookcase won't be staying, but I think it looks rather nice in that corner. I have a similar piece in my dining room and I angled it in the corner and I like it. I think yours would look nice angled too.

cmcole1121 thanks Ann - i appreciate your thoughts. i will probably hold onto the brown bookcase for a bit (or maybe move into dining room). i ordered a new more open black bookcase for the living room (opposite wall) and i'm thinking that the brown one opposite as well may be a bit overkill. however, since i don't have anything to put in it's place i will probably hold off any serious changes for now. thanks again (also for your comments on the cabinet color).

zindor I'm glad you're going to keep the cabinet and paint it! If you haven't already done so, place it in the room position where you think you want it. When you get it in place and hang the new art, I think the color it needs to be will become more obvious to you, but if you still need help, you can post a photo of it in position and get more recommendations from us all. Paint some samples on a board and place in front of the chest, much like you put the paper on the wall to help choose the artwork size. Just looking at your room so far, my vote is for blue or a darker shade of gray.

cmcole1121 Zingor that is a great idea! I will definitely do that - no need to rush right :-). In the meantime paint suggestions would be great :-).

In the next week or so I should get my new bookcase and can rearrange furniture. i will also get my new painting and get it framed (assuming I want to) and will also have my lighthouse pic framed for over cabinet. then i should have a better sense which direction the cabinet should go ;-).

Angelina Vick I am glad you found a piece of art you love, it's going to be perfect in your room! =)

Angelina Vick Hobby Lobby and Michael's always have sales going for custom framing...FYI.

Shobha Bhushan Wow The room looks great ,I was gone for vacation and am back ,just was looking at the home decor ,YOURS is the best by far from the thread I follow ,I just have one suggestion,The art work which is larger will work and I am sure you will be able to put it all well.I like your taste

kcalman Yeah, your room really looks lovely. What would you say your decorating style is? Someone asked me what mine is, and while I strive for your style, I have no idea what I'd call it :)

cmcole1121 Thanks so much! Although a lot of the credit has to go to those who provided such great advice on this thread. Many of the decisions I've made I would never have thought of without advice and suggestions on Houzz!

I am very grateful and have learned so much from this process. Still much more to do and learn though :-).

bluenan I'm stuck inside with 12" of snow so I've been looking at pictures and thought of you when I saw these.
Curtains with the Greek key trim mentioned earlier in the thread, and ideas for your coffee table or chest.

laurae1967 Lovely room! I would toss the fake plant as it detracts from the beautiful elements in the room. I also don't think the blue chenille pillow adds any visual interest and is in a shade that doesn't work with the couch fabric. Look forward to seeing your final selections.

cmcole1121 Thanks bluenan! Laura - thanks. The plant is temporary. As for pillow I will see how everything comes together once other pillows and painting is delivered. If it doesn't work I will find something else. Thanks

vacox Christine, the room is looking wonderful! I have a similarly shaped room that I am currently redesigning with help from Houzzers. I have a grand piano in there, and some other design issues. I love the blue colors on your mantel.... I'm watching your thread for drapery ideas. I'll be doing a similar thing, "framing" the windows with long, hopefully elegant drapes.

douniadesign fabulous danish sideboard http://fab.com/sale/19275/product/359423/

Margaret B Please post pictures of the room with your new artwork. I have been following this post and have developed a bad case of "room envy" . Very nicely done.

cmcole1121 Thank you all for the compliments. next week I should get the painting, bookcase, and pillows :-). I will have to see if I want to frame the painting or not.

I do appreciate your compliments as I am very happy with my room and can't wait to see it "done". I will definitely keep posting updates.

cmcole1121 I've uploaded pics of new pillow and throw I got for chairs. What do u think? The one is a dusty blue (looks a bit more gray though) and throw is more of a teal color. Do u think they work in room (warm up as some have suggested)?

I should have gold ikat sofa pillows delivered in next few days.

bluenan Yes, they work and should look great with your new painting.

pinkturnip wow, some good ideas you have coming in here! I love your Edgecomb Gray walls. I was trying to decide on the right gray for my den and I think you have convinced me! Good luck!

rilovesj Just browsed through this thread and I love what you've chosen for the room. I painted my living room grey, and need some ideas for decorating. Going to use lots of the ones posted on this thread.

Deborah Sullivan I am not a designer (just a home owner), so take whatever I say with a grain of salt. I love many of the suggestions here (I haven't been able to read through everything) and I love some of the ideas that you have been able to extrapolate from the comments. I feel very confident that you are going to end up with an incredible living room in the end. The one thing that I did want to add is: Your new sofa (which I LOVE) is very square, as is your coffee table and some of the other choices in your room. I would try to soften that with some rounded lines, like with your lamps and perhaps with some of the case pieces that have been suggested. I would also say ... don't be in a huge rush to buy art pieces just to fill a space or to add color. I feel that art should speak to and inspire you. When you see it, you'll know. I am struggling myself to learn to live with a blank wall for a while rather than fill something up that just isn't something I really love (or at least like very much). The art thing (for me!) is tough, because I am not regularly in places to look at art, but I don't just want to buy generic pieces to fill an empty wall. Mirrors are great really in that you can fill an empty space until you find something unique you want to look at every day. Anyway, I'm rambling ... I really just want to say: yes, rugs and lamps and pillows and stuff to soften and layer, but don't be in a rush to complete absolutely everything. It should be a work in process.

Very much enjoying this thread as it shows a real design conversation. Very compelling.

petuniablossom I'm not sure if any one has commented in this way, but since you said the room doesn't get a lot of light, I might want to use some warm colors like shades of red, orange or yellow to cozy up the space. I really like your choice in sofa, which shows you have some modern and classic sensibilities. Keep this in mind as you choose accessories, but take your time in finding pieces to which you are personally drawn. Also, don't be afraid to mix in contrast textures. For example, I could see some weathered, gray wood hanging above the sofa or fireplace with a colorful and sculptural little something mounted on the wood. Don't rush and have fun!

Shobha Bhushan Yes now the room is shaping well,I think the gold ikat pillow will do the trick of adding texture,we shall wait.
The othercombi is great.Am loving the look

cmcole1121 My pillows arrived - what do u think?

Ann Nice! From the first picture, it looks like they look very nice with the gold in the rug. They're a nice size for that sofa too.

douniadesign love the gold and the gray! great combination.

bluenan Looks nice! All of your layering is really bringing it all together.

cmcole1121 Thanks - i really love the pillows. adds a new color but complimentary color to the room.

Shobha Bhushan Love the pillows,the golden accent looks beautiful,matches the carpet.Now you can choose a strong focal point for your room,it could be anything,one strong color will liven up the whole look.You can think what you would like to emphasize.So far I like the combinations,working precisely

cmcole1121 Thanks all- I think the strong focal point will be the painting that will he delivered next week. That will tie in the blue and yellow/gold colors (hopefully)

Ann Yes, christinemcole, I think the painting will be a great focal point that ties it all together. It will look so nice - you are doing a great job and making wonderful choices. The size of art was well thought through and the colors are great - you'll love your room.

Shobha Bhushan Now you can wait and relax till your art piece arrives.I like the look

Kevin Retired Decorator Love your room, I have the same tables don't you just love them . Please post your pics of all your new goodies.

Eileen A. The room says nothing to me you need color!

cmcole1121 i really appreciate all of the very productive and helpful comments that have been made on my room. I am very happy with how it is coming together and thank many of you for the suggestions and guidance. My new painting should arrive tomorrow and i will definitely post pics and ask for help in how high above the sofa to hang it.

Eileen A - did you have specific advice or just want to criticize? my room actually says a lot now (at least to me). my assumption is that you commented on the initial pics of my room without looking at the more than 380 comments that have been made (including updated pictures and status).

mjmil Christinemccole I think your room is coming together wonderfully. I can't wait to see the art I think that will be a beautiful addition. Thanks for continuing to update us on your lovely room.

aurorasgifts My sofa is similar here is a pic of my wall paint

Kevin Retired Decorator No mater what 90% of the time 6"s above your seating piece of furniture for art. For eye level when your seated. It also anchors the art to your room. As shown in Auroasgifts pic. You have a beautiful room & great taste !

cmcole1121 @kevin & @mjmil - thanks so much! I appreciate the words and advice about painting. I can't wait to receive it and share with everyone!

Eileen A. Sorry if I offended you i'm just saying you need Color. If the room reflects your personalty and If you are satisfied with what you have. not matter what I SAY .

cmcole1121 I got my art! What do u think?

I obviously still need to hang it but in the meantime I wanted to share ;-). I'm thinking that we don't need to frame it -agree? Also it was suggested I should hang 6 inches above sofa - thoughts?

monica15 I love it!

Deborah Sullivan It looks great! I especially like how the gold in the painting and gold in the pillows complement each other.

vacox It's wonderful! It looks great with the rug, couch, and pillows....

Kevin Retired Decorator I love it , No frame needed, I had suggested 6"s above sofa and yes try that. The room has come together really well. It's all about the details isn't it?

cmcole1121 Thanks :-) I love it too!

Margaret B It looks fantastic. The room looked so stark and cold when you started, now your room looks comfortable and pulled together.

Ann It is great!!!! Perfect size and color - no frame necessary! Since it's horizontal, I'd try holding it 8" above couch but if that looks too high, go with 6.

mjmil Wow christenmcole the artwork looks fabulous. I agree with the other posts no frame is necessary. It is really pulling the whole room together. Great job - you have fantastic taste. Can't wait to see the new Horchow piece.
Thanks for continuing to share.

cmcole1121 Thanks ;-). We will hang this weekend and then hopefully my bookcase will arrive next week! Then I can put some of my family pics back in room;-).
Question - what are thoughts on best location for the bookcase? i want to move the existing wood cabinet to the entry of room (in place of demilune) so will then have 2 possible locations for bookshelf (where brown shelves are now or where cabinet is). on the other wall i will eventually want to get a console type table. which location do u think would work best for the bookcase?

I want to have a lamp on cabinet by entry and was thinking i could hang my framed lighthouse landscape over cabinet. will artwork work with a lamp on the cabinet?

Sorry for so many questions.

folk698 i just saw your room this evening....what a treat to see it from bare to the beauty it is now without having to wait 6 weeks! you have done an awesome job and i can't wait to see your window treatment, bookshelf and cabinet re-do.
I like the idea of a subtle pattern at the window... stationary panels on the sides, possibly blue? with roman shades to be let down for privacy. (Lovely Living Room that bluenan posted 13 days ago).
I don't see why you couldn't use a lamp on he cabinet with your artwook above it. You'd just have to make sure it isn't so large as to take up space in your picture.
thanks for sharing :)

Kevin Retired Decorator I feel you could use the height of the new bookcase where the console is now that you had mentioned to refinish. I looked at all the previous pics and feel that's the best place. I like the idea of keeping a lower piece where the "demilune table" is at now. Your room has come along beautifully. I think you could use some larger plants live or Faux to soften the room & add nature.

Kevin Retired Decorator I like a lamp by art work, Just slightly in front of the edge of the art. Add a nice stack of books or a pretty tray for a nice look . Again hang the picture low generally. To keep it anchored.

Angelina Vick Looks fantastic!

No frame needed...but most art looks more dramatic when it's framed. It doesn't hurt to look and see if a particular frame looks good against in at a store. Design is in the details after-all....;)

Kevin Retired Decorator For a more modern look the simple canvas looks wonderful. With no Frame.

lovliny The art work looks wonderful and I agree that a frame is not necessary. I don't think it would add anything visually. I think the new bookshelf would look best where you currently have the chest that you want to paint. If you decide to go with stationary panels at your windows, they are going to fill in a lot of wall space. In one of your photos showing the room with the mirror hung over the fireplace it also shows the chest. If you look at the flow of the room and the height of the mirror, windows, etc, I think you need a taller piece of furniture where that chest is currently located. Your room looks great. It's been fun watching your progress.

cmcole1121 hi all - thanks. i am going to keep the painting unframed. i'm actually very excited it doesn't need to be framed as i was going to have it professionally framed (so this will save me $$$).
@Kevin -thanks for your ideas. i just want to reconfirm your ideas about the furniture location options. i am definitely going to move the short cabinet to where the demilune table is now. Also, i'm going to get rid of the tall shelving unit currently in the room. so my question is which of the 2 spots would be best for the new bookshelf? if you look at the attached pics it would be either where the cabinet is in pics or the tall shelving unit? (by doorway or in corner on opposite wall). i just wanted to make sure you still recommend the wall next to the doorway (where cabinet is in pics) knowing that the existing shelving unit will be removed and that space will be available. also I will eventually get a console type table for the remaining wall and want to keep that in mind.

sorry if this is confusing!!

cmcole1121 @lovliny - thanks for your ideas. i just saw after i posted my last comment :-). you make some good points. i think size wise the bookcase will work better on that wall too (won't be so crammed and will allow for window panels like you said.) thanks so much :-).

Kevin Retired Decorator Yes,the old book case doesn't meet the new beautiful standard of your new room. Puttin on the Ritz !!!

Recreate and Decorate Your room is coming together beautifully!

roxydesigner wowww your house looks amazing after the changes!!!!

mjmil I think the new bookcase from Horchow would go best where your cabinet is not where the old bookcase is located.
Hope that helps.

cmcole1121 Thanks all! So it looks like I will stick with my original plan of the bookcase on the far wall by the doorway to TV room :-).
@mjmil Thanks :-). FYI - the bookcase I bought is from Ballard (not Horchow).

aurorasgifts I love what you have done it really looks great!

Darzy Lookin' beautiful Christinemcole!

Shobha Bhushan I think your idea of having the bookcase on the far wall by the doorway is good,I love the feel your room is getting .It is exciting to see it all come together

bevballew What a great transition. I wish I could read all but enjoying the progression. Writing so I can continue to get the posts.

bluenan I'm late to the party, I've been out of town, but I love the new painting! It's the perfect shot of color and Wow that the room needed!

cmcole1121 I have updated new pics with the painting hung :-). I also moved the cabinet to its new location. What do you think??

The empty wall will hold my new black bookcase and the shelving unit in the pic will be leaving the room soon ;-). Also I met with the framer about my lighthouse seascape painting which will hang over the cabinet in its new location. The stuff on the cabinet now is temporary but I do want a lamp there.

I was thinking of the smaller version of the blue gourd lamps I wanted to get early on - or would that be to much blue in that corner?

aurorasgifts Wow it is beutiful!

cmcole1121 Thank you!

bevballew Looking just wonderful! Tank you for sharing each new item! Been fun to watch!

vacox I love it!! And kitty has her perch there too, I see!

Ann I think it looks great! I love the new art and it looks to be a perfect height. I like the cabinet in its new spot and I'm wondering if the lamp on it right now works. I like the "early on" gourd lamp but maybe it's better to have a lamp style completely different from the lamps at each end of the couch.

cmcole1121 thanks all! Ann - you bring up a good point about the blue lamps maybe being too similar to the other lamps. the lamp on the piece was my mother in laws. it is gold toned and very pretty and much smaller than the gourd lamps (which may work in that space). i really hadn't thought about using it there - but now that you mention it, maybe it will work. i've attached a better pic of the lamp - what do you think?

Ann I kind of like it. I'd live with it for a bit and see how it feels.

Kevin Retired Decorator I like the cabinet there, The lamp could be placed on a stack of books to add a bit more height if needed when you get the light house pic. Even go further and paint it a pewter color maybe. Then add a black shade for drama. Just some thoughts. I like the crystals on the lamp a lot.

Shobha Bhushan I like the placement of the cabinet,I think that you need to add height by placing a couple of books below ,as kevin has suggested I think it will look right.It is looking pretty now

Ann Oh, I kind of like Kevin's idea of a dark shade - black or charcoal. I do think I'd definitely keep that lamp and I wouldn't paint it (especially since you have some warm golds in the room with pillows, mirror, and art) but I might move the silver tray elsewhere. I like the crystals too!!

lovliny While I'm all for mixing styles I am sorry to say that I don't like the lamp in this room. It feels like a departure in style. To make this cabinet work I would add a more contemporary lamp.

bluenan A few thoughts: When you get the drapes for the big window will the cabinet be too crowded? I know you wanted to hang them to the outside of the window. The lamp needs to be a different style like Ann said, if you keep the brass lamp, I agree it needs a new shade. I would wait until your bookcase arrives and try it to the left of the big window as well as to the right of the sunroom door. I wonder if your two art pieces in the room will be too close together if you keep the cabinet with the lighthouse print above it where it is now. My thought about keeping the cabinet next to the sunroom is that it will spread your art to another side of the room, and the lighting to a darker corner. Also, if you get a table in your entry with a light, will you need one right across from it in the living room?

cmcole1121 Thank you all for your thoughts! I will sit tight on a decision about the lamp for now :-).
@bluenan thanks for your ideas. The bookcase is actually coming tomorrow so we will see how it works in both spots. Although I think the bookcase is going to be a tight fit in the front window and i will probably have same issue you mentioned about curtains.

So here is another thought - what about moving the cabinet & lighthouse pic to where the shelving unit is now (other side of the big window) and moving the demilune table back to entry wall. This would just be temporary - until I find a console or other table/cabinet that I like to go there. This would maybe address the issue you raised of the curtains (that wall is a bit wider) and the painting location.

Thoughts from the group???

Kevin Retired Decorator I still like the console where it is, If your keeping the gold lamp I would remove the silver tray then. The gold lamp does lend it self to the gold in the art and I like the mix of lamp styles. I like mixing metals in a room but I would move the tray else where. I still would like to see a black or dark shade on the lamp. And add books for height if needed once the lighthouse pic is in. I think the bookcase next to the door is the best place for the larger book case. Once the drapes are in depending on how over draped the windows are you could switch them. You might just want to over drape the 2 windows by the fireplace only. Just some thoughts for you.

cmcole1121 Thanks Kevin- I will look for somewhere else for the tray. Honestly I just threw some stuff on the cabinet once we moved it (hadn't really thought it through). For functionality I would like a tray or something else to put our mail on each day - but get that the contrast may be too much there. I will keep your thoughts in mind about the lamp. I will have to see what I think once i have the painting there.

Kevin Retired Decorator I think the console should stay because you want to have a place for your mail there answers that ? the console would be serving your use better there than a book case.

cmcole1121 @kevin just to be clear I wasn't considering the bookcase in the location of the cabinet. We were discussing possibility of moving it to the other side of the larger window (where brown shelves are now). I think bookcase would be too tight of a fit - but wanted to make sure i was clear. not sure if that changes your thoughts.

Kevin Retired Decorator I understand, I feel the space would be to tight in feel where you had the old bookcase. I think a palm or bamboo tree live or Faux would be nice there though. No furniture though. I think the other end of the room needs the bookcase piece for added interest and height next to the door.

Shobha Bhushan I too think the silver tray does not fit well ,you could have a potted plant ,some easy to maintain orchid to liven the room ,the position right now is alright.Height can be added by books and to have a place for mailyou can choose to put them in some drawer below the console if it has one.

cmcole1121 I already have art thank you.

Angelina Vick So how are feeling about the progress Christine?

I think it's coming along beautifully.

For me personally, I think the hardest part...is where to stop before I get cluttered. I love details and varieties of textures....I have to be careful to not overwhelm my spaces with "too much."

cmcole1121 my bookcase was delivered today :-). i have attached pics of a few different arrangements with the bookcase and other pieces, and would love some thoughts.

Keep in mind that the demilune is temporary. i would definitely want to get a new table at some point. also i am still considering painting the other cabinet. i will have to deal with the potential impact on curtains on that front window as the cabinet is pretty tight (either side it sits on).

i'm really just trying to figure out the configuration and what works. I ended up not doing a configuration of the bookcase in the opposite corner - after seeing the cabinet there i knew it would be too tight of a fit so didn't bother. So i think the bookcase will stay where it is - which i think really works.

question - does anyone have ideas about lamps in that part of the room? i'm thinking that i may flip the floor lamp and garden stool to put the floor lamp behind the chair near the bookcase. I really need another lamp over there. any other ideas as i do like the way it is now.

now i need to start decorating the bookcase. i'd love any pointers as i tend to try to overload with framed photos (which i definitely want to include quite a few) but still want to look nice and balanced.

I look forward to everyone's thoughts.

bevballew Looks beautiful!! Gorgeous piece and looks great there. I would say floor lamp as you indicated. I would agree also re other wall. Probably decide on window treatment first. Your room is looking lovely!

mjmil Love the new bookcase and it is in the perfect spot. I like the 3rd picture where you have the storage unit where the demilune table was. I think you do no need anything on the other wall especially if you are going to add drapes.

bluenan Love the bookcase where you have it, it mimics the shape and scale of the door which looks really nice. I like the cabinet on the left side of the window, the lamp will really light up that corner and the placement will also spread your art to the other side of the room. I think on the left side you can get away with a bigger lamp, the size and shape to be determined by what looks best with the art. I suggest moving the floor lamp around, it might need to be opposite the bookcase to balance out the higher verticals in the room. You'll know when you see it. It's all looking so good, Christine!

cmcole1121 thanks bevballew, mjmil, and bluenan! i really love the bookcase and am super happy with it. i will play with the lamp and see if i like it behind the other chair - but bluenan i think you might be right about the balance. i guess it isn't that dim so if i can't move the floor lamp it is probably ok (although i'd love to add some light).

as for the other side of the room - i was expecting some different opinions on the best configuration :-). i think they both actually look good. i like your idea bluenan about spacing out art and adding a bigger lamp if the cabinet is moved to opposite bookcase. i guess the only thing i'm not sure about is what i would do with other wall. maybe a small console table or another demilune that has a bit more weight to it?

i would really love more opinions on these arrangements. If i were to leave cabinet by entry than what would i do with the other corner? i know some have suggested not putting any furniture there - but that seems like a waste of space to me. thoughts?

Shobha Bhushan I like your bookcase placement and the only factor I was uncertain about was the small console table ,which you may have some silver tray or try moving your floral piece.The balance between the lamps will have to be worked on.,
You can try putting the cabinet by entry and leave the other corner empty,just try how it looks ,at times we dont have to fill a lot of space ,a bit of empty area looks good.You could suddenly get a brilliant idea too,just try a few combinations and if you canpost the pics we can give some feedback.

Kevin Retired Decorator I love the bookcase there, a perfect choice in style too. I feel you really only need 1 piece of case goods on the large window wall. One or the other. That console would look great painted gloss Black. Maybe in front of the window if it doesn't block the vent. even slightly out from the wall once the drapes are in it would look better. Maybe a pair of ottomans on both sides of it then. Just a thought to try.

aimran room came out gorgeous!

lovliny Your room looks beautiful! The Ballard bookcase is perfect in location and style. I have three possible scenarios for the larger window wall:

1) I think that once you hang your drapes on this wall, the wall space on each side of the window is going to be reduced by one-half and any piece of furniture on either side will not look right. I would not use either the cabinet or the smaller bookcase on this wall and leave the wall open without any furniture, or

2) I liked Kevin's idea of a console which would not block the vent and place ottomans on each side of the console.

3) Regarding the cabinet you would like to paint -is there room under the window on the same wall as the chairs (the window that does not have a vent)? If you were able to put the cabinet there and that is what you end up liking, then I would not add a console and ottomans on the large window wall. I would also consider putting a mirrored top on the cabinet which would bring a lot of light into this corner.

cmcole1121 Wow some more great ideas! A lot for me to consider. Some thoughts:
@kevin - i really can't put the cabinet in front of the window as it would block the radiator. Although i do like the idea of a console table in front of the window with ottomans that both Kevin & @lovliny brought up. This was an idea that @lpmenache had a while ago but i was hesitant about not using the wall space. If i did that then what would i do with the walls and on either side. i will definitely be hanging my lighthouse painting on one of those walls (now i'm concerned about the space for my painting once i add drapes).

@lovliny - thanks for your other ideas as well. i don't think the cabinet would work under the window by the chair.

? if i did decide to just stick with the cabinet on one side of the window (maybe pulled forward a little to allow for drapes (as kevin suggested) - what are the overall thoughts on which side of the window?
@bluenan brought up some good points about the benefit of the cabinet to the left of the window as it would seperate the art and provide more light in this corner with a lamp. however, from a practical perspective i do need somewhere near front door to put mail so i like the idea of a table to the right of the window. Possible solution to this would be if i am able to fit a small table in the entry area to meet this need. if it can work this would work better as it would also keep me from using that space in the living room as a dumping ground for stuff.

Kevin Retired Decorator I think a lot of it will be depending on how wide you go with the drapes. Is that your only heat source in the room? I have placed furniture in front of rads before allowing aprox 8"-1' of space but the curtains on each side came out 6"s aprox so it looked OK and didn't block the heat. Plus it covered up the rad. Of course mine were really ugly. un like yours. I still like the idea of a large faux bamboo plant in the corner. But they can cost $300. for a nice one. Or a plant stand in the corner with a large plant. The corner needs something. But not to much of a heavy feel. Then I would use a floor lamp by the chair there. You can never have enough lighting around a room. I think function should come 1st for your needs.

Ann I like the idea of the cabinet to the right of the window and a large real or fake tree/plant (nearly to ceiling) in the corner in a quite large pot or basket. If the cabinet is on the right, I like the small lamp with a new dark shade as previously mentioned and the new art. I do think it would be nice to separate the art more, but I just think the cabinet works better to the right of the window and above the cabinet is the logical place for the art.

bluenan Please, no fake plants!

Kevin Retired Decorator LOL bluenan I wonder how many fake synthetic clothing & other fabrics or woods & metals etc. the world have in their home and don't know the difference

bluenan I think with the drapes you don't need furniture on both side of the big window, though you will need to balance the other side. Hanging three pictures vertically can give you color, interest and height. Think about colored mats with gilt frames or black frames...some examples below. Maybe a small occasional chair or upholstered bench under the pictures to be pulled up next to the coffee table for extra seating when needed.

bluenan Kevin, I guess that's why I prefer wool, cotton, linen, brass, sterling, antiques with real wood, not glued together sawdust, and plants of the living variety.

Ann Live plants are certainly better, but it takes years to grow plants to ceiling height. I do think you need to spend some money and choose carefully to get a good fake plant, but I have a couple in my house that look quite good. I have more live plants/trees, but I start cuttings years before I need it when I know one of my existing trees will outgrow its spot.

Kevin Retired Decorator bluenan, Got cha ! lol .The dyes & chemicals in some fabrics, paints etc can be toxic. Real plants are the best of course.They clean the air. I don't mind a faux quality plant of a larger size. Some folks can't grow plants or have the proper light, like in my dark rooms on the north side. But I use smaller real plants and always fresh cut flowers. I'm just chatting no offense, please

bluenan Certainly, none taken!

cmcole1121 Funny i never thought fake or real plants could cause such debate :-). I will honestly consider both as i do not have a green thumb and have been known to a kill a plant or two :-).

Bluenan - i really like your ideas about the framed prints on the wall and also using a stool or bench or something on the other part of the wall. i also do like the idea of using a plant (either standing or on a stand).

lrm1 It has been so much fun to watch your room take shape, it has come out so beautifully! The book shelf added just what the room needed. Can't wait to see final pictures with your drapes and personal touches added.

cmcole1121 Thank you LRM1!

mjmil I really like Buenan's idea to place framed prints and an occasional chair on the left side of the window. I think it will look great and be practical for extra seating. I was looking through the post again at the pictures from the beginning to now and you really have done an excellent job. Your room is looking so beautiful. Every addition has been perfect adding another dimension to the room. I am with Irm1 I can't wait to see the addition of the drapes and personal items. Great job!

cmcole1121 thanks mjmil - i like that idea too :-). i appreciate your kind words about my room - i am very happy with where things are at. still more to do though :-).

cmcole1121 I took an initial stab at decorating my new bookcase. I know most will tell me there is too much on here and I think i agree. I guess I'm looking for some guidance about how to keep it personal but also attractive. It is important to me to be able to put out pictures (I would actually want to put out more if i could ;->).
How can I better balance my photos with other pieces. Most of the other pieces can move if necessary. Thoughts on what works and doesn't?

Also how would I tie in mantel, coffee table, and cabinet decorating (should I change anything on mantel or coffee table?)

bevballew Yes to both. I am no decorator so I am not good at that but one thing is the blue vase on the bookcase might work next to the vase on the mantel, maybe but I think the candles are fine maybe but you need something higher on the other side of the mantel. You probably need some bulk on the bookcase. Will be anxious to see what designers say.

Kevin Retired Decorator I don't feel the book case has to many things but a book case looks best with some books. Even added under the things you have laying flat. Maybe only 2or 3 picture frames in similar frame grouped closely together. all on one shelf Work in 3s & 5s for your objects add some books and maybe some greenery on one of the shelf's. Maybe lean a tray against the back of one shelf like the silver tray you had. A stack of decorative boxes would be nice on the bottom shelf maybe. Or a basket. or a folded throw on the bottom shelf.

cmcole1121 Kevin I like a lot of your ideas. I was actually planning to incorporate some books (I just new to unpack them :->). I will try to group photos together - I always feel the need to spread out but think your idea could work. I will also try your other ideas. this is a work in progress - so it's more about trying to get balance while I continue to collect pieces that I love.

In the meantime I'd appreciate any other suggestions/ideas :-).

Bevbellew thanks for your ideas too.

cmcole1121 Is this at all better? Also I bought 2 of these pretty small mason jars today at PB with hopes of putting some flowers in them. Any thoughts as to if they would work anywhere or should I return them? I was inspired by a photo in my idea book.

romey9us Awesome start. So many options here. I immediately visualized one of those animal skin (fake of course) rugs under that table. Something light and neutral, not zebra.

Marie Ryan where did you get the beautiful print of the ocean and clouds I love it very peaceful.

aimran you have enough items to keep changing items on your book case even monthly..

libradesigneye Try making one of the shelves all photos, layered together. If they don't fit there, take them out. Add some books in flat stacks, curated for color or wrap them in plain paper. Leave more open - take off the clear glass.

Shobha Bhushan I would go with kevin decorator;s idea as books have to be there and choosing a grouping for photos looks good,it should look more like a book case rather thana showcase.The blue jars have to go,I am not particularly fond of the mason jars but you could use them in your bathroom decor to add some interest..Combination of other knick knacks group together look good.You have to try a few to get an idea

cmcole1121 @mpinmanryan thanks :-). i bought that in Cape Cod. The artist is Ann Packard (Packard Gallery) - i love it too!!
@libradesigneye - thanks for your feedback. did you happen to see the updated pic i added - i moved most photos to 1 shelf and added some books (i will need to swich out at least one of the frames). Am i headed in right direction? this is just the starting point - i want to get some greens to add (as Kevin suggested) and put a larger basket on bottom shelf. I will try to see if i can find a home for the crystal vase in the dining room.

i know a bookcase should primarily hold books - but i bought it more for displaying photos and pieces. i do view it more as showcase than a bookcase - but of course want if to look balanced and match the vibe of the rest of the room.

any thoughts about the other pieces i currently have on the shelves (ie lantern, blue vases)? i just bought the lantern ( i actually bought 2) & the blue glass pieces. I really like them but am open to other ideas about placement. Do you think they work?

Kevin Retired Decorator I feel the mason jars are to casual & would look better in another room. A kitchen or bath maybe.

Kevin Retired Decorator I would look for mercury glass pieces or sculptures like attached for example. Check out Homedecorators.com or Wayfair.com for great finds.

Kevin Retired Decorator Home Goods have great accessories, I view pottery barn as more of a Trad or country look.

cmcole1121 thanks Kevin - honestly i have tried shopping at Home Goods several times and have never had any luck with finding anything that i like. Maybe i am not going at the right time. To be honest Pottery barn is very much in line with the kinds of things i like (i guess i'm more traditional :->).

i agree that the mason jars don't work in the living room. i will see if i can find a home for them in my kitchen (maybe window sill). i love the look of them with fresh flowers. thanks again - i appreciate your direction and input.

Kevin Retired Decorator Bombay company has very traditional things also lampsplus.com too. I'm just trying to give you some more choices for stores or online sites.

cmcole1121 Kevin - thanks so much. I appreciate the suggestions. Bombay company used to have a store in a nearby mall, which i liked very much, i thought they had gone out of business. i will check out online.

also - fyi i changed my username on my account (in case anyone is confused :-).

Kevin Retired Decorator I think you will love Homedecorators.com then, They are a division of Home Depot and I have ordered a lot from them. If you request a catalog you get a 10% off coupon from them every few months. Their prices are better than pottery barn by far.But yet have quality things. I'm crazy about wayfair.com they have a rewards program and I've ordered 75% of my home furnishings from both.

cmcole1121 I actually have a Home Decorators store near my house. I've only been inside once though and when I went we were looking for specific furniture (not decorative stuff). - thanks!

bluenan Just my opinion, but I really think Home Decorators and Bombay sell inferior quality furniture, don't waste your money. Check my post from 6 weeks ago about the bookshelves, you'll see examples of stacking books horizontally and creating different levels of objects. I wouldn't be in a rush to go out and buy a bunch of things to just fill your shelves.

bluenan Some examples of bookshelf design...

cmcole1121 Thanks bluenan - I agree that i don't want to go buy stuff just to fill the bookcase. I would rather it be more organic (and may have other things still packed up that j forgot about :->). Also I really do need to have photographs as a big part of what I display. I will continue to keeps eyes open for anything i like - but in meantime wanted to know how to improve on what i have as my natural inclination is to load stuff up ;-).
This part is hard for me.

bluenan Photos are obviously important to you and give you a lot of pleasure so don't be afraid of loading up several shelves. This is your home and not a showroom. I like them best when they're layered together, overlapping, not spread out.

cmcole1121 Bluenan - thanks for those pics and encouragement :-). Those pics definitely give me inspiration. Most other pics are just full of books with few pics.

Kevin Retired Decorator I like the pics above because the frames all sort of have one tone with a accent frame here & there. The larger mats on the pics help layering pics together. Then they can be snug in groupings. Great idea.

cjohnston I think you've done a great job tying in the bookshelf, mantel, and coffee table accessories. Having some blue in each, like you've done, makes it work. I'd love to see some organic shapes on the bookshelf. You have a subtle coastal vibe, so maybe driftwood, shells, coral, etc.

lovliny Kevin - just went to Wayfair.com for the first time and found a garden bird bath that I have been looking for. Thanks for the info. Also believe Home Decorators is a great resource for accessories.

Kevin Retired Decorator Your welcome , I love & shop both of the stores on line.

cjohnston The only caveat I have about Wayfair.com is that their return policy is not very good. From their website: "For items that are shipped free, our shipping and handling costs each way are deducted from your refund, but you are refunded the full value of the item." I ordered a lamp that turned out not to work in my room...after deducting their shipping and handling fees, I calculated that I would only get back 60% the original price I paid for it. Just a heads up.

cmcole1121 Thanks all ;-) I will continue to keep my eyes open for accessories & work on my photo frames. I should have my artwork next weekend and will share once I have it up.

Next I need to work on window treatments - ugh!! Many people suggested I needed some pattern in my curtains. I like the idea but would want something subtle - any other ideas than previously suggested?

Kevin Retired Decorator When I had a problem only once with wayfair.com they told me to keep the item and gave me a full credit, but it was damaged. Hmmm. Overstock.com I had major disappointment with them.

shakerjaebs I had the same experience with Wayfair. I donated a large, very slightly damaged painting to Habitat for Humanity.

Kelly Just checking in to see your progress! It's starting to remind me of Olivia Pope's apartment from the TV show Scandal....which I am equally addicted to... Great job thus far. I have not read the back log on the drape debate, but if your wanting subtle..maybe a little pattern..why don't you buy off the shelve then have a boarder band added to give it a little piz-zaz...in some pattern you love..

cmcole1121 Thanks @Kelly. i take that as a compliment :-). i've taken a bit of a break on here as i haven't had any updates to share. i'm taking a bit of a decorating break and waiting to find things i love (painting should be ready soon). I will work on curtains soon.

1stdibs A piece like this would fit your style perfectly and do double duty as a mirror and add some light.
http://www.1stdibs.com/furniture/lighting/wall-mirrors/french-glass-wall-mounted-back-lighted-mirror/id-f_532214/?utm_source=houzz&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=houzz-questions

Susan Mills Design Welcome to Houzz, first dibs, love your site, I'm a fan!

cmcole1121 Hi all - I just got my framed lighthouse painting back and think it looks great! I attached a photo but it is really hard to see how it looks because it is still wrapped. Anyway I wanted some advise about hanging it over the cabinet. How high should i hang it, centered over cabinet or centered on wall? What kind of lamp would look best (use lamp from earlier pics, a lamp with wider base, taller lamp, etc). Any advise would be appreciated ;-).

Ann I think the art looks nice but maybe a bit small to hang alone in that space. I kind of think you need a second piece for a vertical pair on that wall. If you want to stick with just the one piece, you could just leave it leaning against the wall sitting on the chest and make it a part of the tabletop decor.

bluenan Looks good! The height at which it is hung will depend on several factors. The lamp you choose will help determine both the height and placement, centered versus off-center to accommodate a bigger lamp. I also like to use other horizontal markers, ie, the window muntins to help decide picture placement. It should probably end up either just above or just below the center sash of your front window, I don't like when pictures are lined up with muntins, or hung too high. The lamp will overlap the picture to some degree, but without knowing the size of the lamp it's hard to say exactly where to hang it at this point. If you need to hang the picture a bit higher because of the lamp you can put something on the chest, under the picture, to visually anchor it to the chest.

Shobha Bhushan I thinka atall lamp one in the earlier pic which is stick like will go well,just make sure that the top of the lamp shade is where the lower left corner of the pic hangs,so it gives a visual balance.I suggest you just try a few combi but I think this light house painting with some small blue suggestions on the lamp shade,maybe if you can stencil on it or just choose some blue decals on your walls ,very little of it to combine the whole look.These deacals are available at michael;s .

aimran Use newspaper cut out to size of your frame n test it with painter's tape on your wall

cmcole1121 I've added a pic with the lamp we had been discussing earlier. I also took one that is a wider shot to see the full window. Also it is hard to really see because of the reflections so I tried to take another angle close up.

Does this lamp work or should I look into other types (maybe larger base, shorter, styles)? I know people suggested a new shade if I kept this lamp.
Also as for placement of painting on wall - should I also figure out drapes before finalizing where on wall?
Ann - thanks for your comment. I can see what u mean it could prob be bigger but it is what it is and I don't think I want to hang 2 different paintings in that space.
Ann - thanks for your thoughts - ? What is a window muntin?

bluenan Muntins are the the wood strips separating the window panes. You might need to look into a taller lamp like these buffet lamps.

Darzy Wow...the room is coming together so beautifully! Has the curtains been decided upon? If not, how about a silk (or faux silk) pinch pleat? It would look so luxurious with a medium or a bit deeper blue. Love your art selections! Are you planning to "widen" the windows by adding a bit more curtain to the window's edge? If so, I think I'd wait on the final art above the entry table since the curtains may change the location a bit. The console may be a tight squeeze there after the curtains are hung. Speaking of the console, would the silver tray with pretty crystal glasses and a decanter work there for you? The crystal will add more sparkle of the lamp. Sort of a dry bar/hors de hourves table? I like groveraxles idea of changing out the lampshade to black. I don't mind mixing gold with silver, as long as it's not done just once. Like an ice bucket of silver/gold there as well. I LOVE what you have done!

Darzy I tried to 'catch" up but I apologize if I've missed something. In the corner that is empty that you mentioned you don't want to "waste" the space (but it's okay to waste space imo). Has anyone mentioned a small chaise in that corner with a lamp/small table? Your special place to read and have a little cocktail. :)

cmcole1121 @bluenan thanks for the explanation :-). I will keep my eyes open for lamps that are taller.

@darzy - thanks so much :-). I have not made any decisions about curtains (have been putting off) but I do agree that I may have to reconfigure something's once I do (depending on how much room they take). I guess that should be my next big project - before I buy anything else or hang art. As for curtains I have had different advice - white, blue, patterned. I'm not sure which way to go (which is why I've put off :->).

As for the other part of the room. I have decided to leave empty for now. I'm not sure if I have room for a chaise and table but like the idea. I also like other ideas given for this space. I'm going to wait til I find something I love.
Thanks again for your nice words! I look forward to any other advice you may have for me ;-).

aimran how about these curtains?

agree with Darzy's ideas..

Darzy Nice curtains anumaura! Texture and a subtle, pretty color.

cmcole1121 i do like those curtains Anumaura! A few people have suggested velvet curtains, which i think would look great! although i am wondering if i shouldn't go with a lighter fabric since natural light is so valuable in this room. I did want to keep curtains to the side of the windows but assume they will cover the window a little and i'm concerned with losing even a little sunlight.

Do people think that linen or silk curtains would look ok or do you think a heavier fabric like the velvet is the way to go? i've had suggestions about both. I've also had several people strongly suggest i bring in some kind of a pattern (even if subtle/tone on tone). Maybe something like the Restoration Hardware Pinstripe Sheer Belgian Linen Drapery or their Thai Silk Solid Drapery. i would love thoughts and specific suggestions.

Kevin Retired Decorator If your over draping the windows you need to use a opaque fabric. You can always use sheers in between the panels. If your wanting to make the windows look larger a sheer fabric won't look good on the wall area that is over draped.

cmcole1121 @Kevin - of course, that makes a lot of sense! That is why i love this site, i have no idea :-). I'm assuming that in order to have the curtains just frame the window i would need to "over drape" as you called it (also because of my radiators under 2 of the 3 windows)? do you agree?

also suggestions on color(white or blue) and or pattern?

sjr877 I have purchased several items from Joss and Main - a dresser, a slipper chair, several small sunburst mirrors as well as other small accessories. I have been pleased with each one! Whenever you buy something you get the next 30 days of free shipping. I especially love that when purchasing larger items!

Darzy My vote would be silk or faux silk. It would be nice if the curtains were lined. Here is a pretty blue faux silk for only $25 a panel!

Kevin Retired Decorator Yes I agree, I think a silvery blue velvet would be very rich. They have panels at JC Pennys for $60. in velvet. Or a pattern like a trellis pattern on a rich blue back ground.

bevballew Silk will be beautiful! You can't go wrong!

aimran If you want to keep formal: get silk.. Want trendy: get the trellis pattern kevin suggested.
Why is kevin retired? :p :D everyone likes his suggestions and contributions on almost all discussions.
Cmcole1121: I did alot of curtains searching on this discussion recently: http://www.houzz.com/discussions/422136 you can check it out.. Mostly in grey-blue and greys.. Even blacks.. All prices too. Velvet too.. You can look it up if you want.. 2-3 posts..

Shobha Bhushan I agree with kevin about the silvery blue velvet panels to give it arich look,how about trying to burn velvet and make your own pattern if you are the kind who likes to personalize and also do some deco by yourself

cmcole1121 Thanks Anumaura - i will definitely check out the link you provided very helpful. i will probably want to stay away from anything too trendy (especially for drapes) - but am open to a more traditional pattern (if it works). Also i agree - Kevin does have good ideas :-).

Shobha - thank you. i am not into DIY projects - not crafty at all! i stick to purchasing of pretty things as is :-).