Design Secret: How to Fix a Big, Blank Wall

Before my clients moved into their new home, I snapped these photos of the family room. The wall where the TV hung was so stark and needed much more interest.

The solution? A built-in, which holds the TV, books, photos, accessories, and media equipment. By using a similar finish to the finish on the nearby kitchen cabinets (the kitchen and family room are actually one big space), we made the built-ins feel like they have been there all along! 

We used a carpenter provided by our contractor. If you're looking for a great finisher in your area, ask around: A furniture store that has high-quality pieces you really like should always have a few recommendations.

Notice the cabinets below the windows. We're in the process of changing those slightly to fit more with the built-ins. Stay in touch to see the new lower cabinets in the next few weeks! 

  

Inspiration Objects

Beginning a room's design with a piece of art or object you love is a great source of inspiration. I've found that many clients have a treasured piece they want to be sure to include. As a designer I try to take inspiration from those special pieces. Finding fabrics or furniture that falls in line with what they already like is a sure win.

In this room, the client owned an antique Suzani and a pair of antique Argentinean chairs that she wanted to incorporate into the home.  We used a local upholsterer to center the design on the seat and back of the chairs. We made a contrast welt choosing one of the colors from the Suzani.

Here the client owned a piece of art from a local denver artist, Duke Beardsley . http://www.dukebeardsleystudio.com/  We included darker piece of furniture to balance the art work and move ones eye around the room. 

-Nadia