Bethany’s Design Dilemma
This room off of Bethany’s kitchen and dining area is ready for a multifunctional makeover. Here’s her letter:
My husband and I are so excited to finally get one of your coveted weekly spots! We’d LOVE to add this large, first-floor room (which is adjacent to our kitchen and dining area) to our existing entertaining space. The room is fairly large but we have no need for a library, and while the room appeared to be perfectly suited as a dining room (hence the garish faux gold and plastic chandelier) we have yet to actually use it for that. As I mentioned, the location and layout of the room make it great for entertaining, but we’d also like to be able to use the space on a day-to-day basis. I enjoy doing yoga & making crafty things, so I’ve wondered if there was a way to turn the room into a multi-purpose area, suited to crafty projects and yoga in a day-to-day sense, but still able to be transformed into extra entertaining space (think buffet table and bar) when needed. Difficult, I know – but I have faith in you! We like a cross between traditional and modern and the built-ins must stay but everything else in the room can go: the terrible wall color, the desk, and the wingback chair. We wouldn’t mind using the wingback chair if it suits your plan for the room (I have another one and we could update them with new upholstery). We’re willing to paint the built-ins as well. One color that I’ve been loving is gray (and deep navy blue as well)- the room gets lots of light so it can take some pretty dark colors. I also love, love, love patterns (especially big, graphic and bold ones)! Breathlessly awaiting your help in Washington, DC – Bethany (& Blake)
Here’s the plan:
And now for the mood board breakdown.
1. This soon-to-be multitasking space will work for entertaining thanks to a buffet, a mini-bar station and two different seating areas- but it’ll also be perfectly functional for doing crafts and even yoga. Gotta love a room that does it all. And our color palette will be dramatic and moody with the navy and weathered gray tones that Bethany loves. The walls will get a nice rich smoky navy color (Benjamin Moore’s Ashland Slate 1608) and the built-in bookcases will get a soft stony-gray hue (Benjamin Moore’s Winter Solstice 1605) for a chic and current effect. It will instantly feel elegant, polished and enveloping thanks to the new color scheme, and we’ll bring in some rich wheaty-gold colors to warm things up a bit along with a few dark wood pieces of furniture to anchor the entire room. Mark my words- this after will be almost unrecognizable!
2. Two of these rich caramel colored ottomans will create a charming little seating area when they’re placed on either side of the fireplace for guests who like to perch when Bethany and Blake have company. And speaking of that fireplace, we’d love to see the brick surround and the mantel painted the same weathered gray tone that will go on the built-ins for a stately look that’s cohesive and crisp.
3. We’ll also be bringing this clean-lined table centered in front of the large picture window with the two existing wingback chairs that Bethany already owns on either side (stay tuned for the new fabric we’d love to see on those). The great thing about placing two plush arm chairs angled in towards the center of the room on either side of a nice large table is that the chairs can easily be moved to face the table so Bethany can use it to do crafts and then redirected to the center of the room for entertaining (bam, the craft table instantly becomes a spacious side table that can also double as a place to put down drinks and appetizers).
4. And speaking of drinks, we actually think that Bethany’s built-ins offer the opportunity to create a convenient mini-bar to the left of the fireplace above the closed base cabinets (which can be used to store additional barware and accessories while no one’s the wiser). Meanwhile on the open shelf above that closed cabinet can display bottles of wine, other mixers, ice buckets, shakers, and even wine glasses hanging down (thanks to cheap and easy to install systems like this) to complete our nice little swanky mini bar. And placing all the bottles and bar accessories that are out in the open on a large tray will tie everything together and make it all feel organized. Oh and we can’t forget this pretty decanter that Bethany can grab to serve drinks in style.
5. This bold new light fixture will make the room. And we love the graphic pattern (which Bethany is known to adore). The fact that it’ll hold it’s own in a room full of rich navy and gray tones is the icing on the cake- plus it only looks like a million bucks (it’s a steal at just $159!).
6. We love the subtle graphic pattern on these rich navy curtain panels and the idea of layering them with a slightly softer and grayer navy wall will really add depth, interest and dimension to the space. Once they’re hung high and wide on that giant picture window they’ll create a perfect backdrop behind the new seating area and they’ll add height to that wall which will mimic the height of the built-ins for a balanced and grand effect.
7. Here’s the honey-colored fabric (on sale!) that we think will look amazing on the two existing wingback chairs that Bethany already owns. Especially when paired with the navy curtains and the dark wood table it’ll create a rich and luxe palette that draws you in (whether you’re in the mood for yoga, crafts, or a nice stiff drink).
8. This rich-toned clean lined buffet will be placed where the white desk currently resides to add more of that entertaining functionality that Bethany prefers (she already has a home office in another section of her house). From concealed storage to a surface to place appetizers and other entertaining staples it’ll really add a lot to the space.
9. This great chunky round mirror will reflect tons of light and add a classic and luxe vibe above the fireplace. Plus we love how the geometric shapes in the pendant light will play with the round shape of the mirror and even the round table on the other side of the room. Mmm, shapes.
10. We mentioned that we’d be bringing in some golden-wheat tones to warm up all the gray and navy- and this gorgeous oversized canvas (just $99 and ready-to-hang) will look lovely above the buffet across from that wall of built-ins. Not only does it have some of the gray and navy tones found in the rest of the room, but the wheat tones in the new chair upholstery, the ottomans by the fire, and even some accessories that Bethany can pull onto those built-ins will all tie in with the rich honey undertones.
11. And last but certainly not least, this graphic patterned rug will add even more interest, drama, and plush inviting texture to the entire space. Seriously, with the geometric light overhead and even the grid-like pattern created by the built-ins, this soft zig-zag pattern will be an amazing counterpart. We’d love to see it placed under the front legs of the armchairs and the table over by the window to help define that little zone. This way there’s still some open floor space for yoga but when Bethany is crafting and entertaining that area will feel cozy instead of stark.
So there you have it. A functional space full of graphic and inviting style that works for entertaining and quiet afternoon hobbies alike. We can’t wait to see what you guys think! And if anyone else out there is in need of a custom makeover of their very own, click here for some decorating advice on the double.
Note: Our mood boards are now posted at least three days after they’re sent to the client (so they have a chance to purchase everything before it sells out).
Update: Bethany and Blake spent this past weekend painting and the new colors of the room look amazingly dramatic and moody. We can’t wait to share their after pics just as soon as they’re headed our way. And speaking of afters, some others have just rolled in… so stay tuned for those soon!
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Comments
This mood board reminds me of a hotel lounge, in a good way! I see that big pendant comes from overstock.com. Do you guys buy a lot from there? I never have. Never even look there! Maybe I should…?
Can I shamelessly plug my new shiny blog here?
http://hishouseherhelp.wordpress.com/
Love you guys!
Hey Mic,
So glad you’re digging the latest mood board. And as for your overstock.com question, we never recommend any store or product in a mood board that we don’t have total faith in- and we love overstock! There are tons of great bargains to be found there. We especially love looking through light fixtures and area rugs there. So much to choose from!
xo,
s
What a cool room! It is going to look so cozy and sophisticated. Great mood board! The buffet is going to be so useful.
Hey Rhiannon,
Hmm, I’m not used to justifying my love of the Twilight books. I guess you either love it or you don’t- like painted brick or Vegemite. I just got caught up in the suspense and the love story of it all. And I liked that I genuinely didn’t know what would happen next (some books are super predictable but I was totally on the edge of my seat for these). Hope it helps (although I’m sure if you hated the series I won’t convince you either way)!
xo,
s
p.s. For those confused as to why this topic is on this post, it’s actually referencing this post from earlier today: http://www.younghouselove.com/2009/11/window-shopping-its-target-time/
What an interesting room! I love that light fixture from overstock, I’ve never thought to check their site for light fixtures.
Hello! Love that light fixture, but here’s a question, is a light fixture like that always “hanging” . . . or could we flush mount it? It was hard to tell from the overstock page, but I’m guessing there isn’t a flush mount option?
Thanks, guys . . . love your blog and love getting ideas for our new 1940s townhouse (seriously, everything is crooked.). Thanks for keeping me inspired!
1. What a great room! Between the picture window, built-in shelves, and fireplace… it could be used for anything!
2. Is it weird I reeeeally like the current chandelier??? Super fun and quirky.
Bethany, please let me know if you just plan on getting rid of it!!
On another note, love the recommended chandelier as well. We’ve been considering that one for my mom’s dining room.
Wonderful post, as always!
Alaina
Hey Erin,
Good question! This light isn’t a flush mount fixture, but most lights can be converted if they’re corded (not hanging by metal rods like this one) since you can just hang it without much dangle so it looks like it’s right up against your ceiling. The good news is that this light does come with a 6″ rod (and a few 12″ rods) so you could leave out the 12″ rods and just use the single 6″ rod to hang it pretty close to the ceiling. Hope it helps!
xo,
s
very cool room. It is sophisticated yet livable all at the same time. Would never have thought of those colors together…but it feels so lovely and homey. Awesome job! (Wish I lived there!)
AND I really like that buffet you found and am now recommending it to a friend! It’s very Mad Men, especially the yellow-brown color available. Looks far more expensive than it is!
hi guys! love this moodboard. that space seems like the prime space for navy paint! it won’t feel too dark at all! anyhow … we have the ikea bjursta sideboard and LOVE it! we got so many compliments on it … when i tell people it’s ikea, they are always surprised. i will give a word of advice: have two people lift it always and when you flip it upright, don’t rest any of the weight on the legs until it is upright!
I love the paint color suggestions. They will be very dramatic! I googled the gray paint color and saw a room similar to this one with built ins and fireplace painted the same color. It looks awesome! It will still look warm and inviting with the warmer toned chairs and leather ottomans.
Bethany- Love that color you currently have on the wall, mind sharing the brand and name?
I love multipurpose rooms that don’t include folding tables and carboard boxes. Great job guys!
I’m also curious about the current paint color! I think it’s beautiful. But I can’t wait to see the room with its new look. Another great board!
Ooohh, love this one! Great job, Sherry! I can’t wait to see the after pics!
Nice job, as usual! I especially like the light fixture and rug. I am curious about something and hopefully you don’t mind me asking. When people buy design help, do they usually give measurements for the room too? I was just wondering because the Ikea buffet looks so long and the wall kinda short. Hope it works though because the design plan is so perfect and cohesive. I can’t wait to see the after pics.
Hey Kristi,
Good question! Yup, we’re sure to request any measurements that we need (if they’re not provided with the initial questionnaire). In this case Bethany was the perfect client and gave us numbers before we even asked. You’re right about those details really coming in handy when we select the items for the makeover!
xo,
s
Um…I have to say, I really like the feel of the room as it is! Love the color, the white trim, and, er, I kind of like the garish chandelier. Am I beyond decor redemption?
Hey Bex,
Fear not! Upon opening up Bethany’s before photos we had the same reaction! The bright teal walls are fun (in fact we even had walls like that in our old dining room) but we can see how she and Blake wanted something a bit more subdued for yoga and crafts. Sometimes people just want to start over with a space. And you know we love white trim. Mmmm, could eat it for all three meals. But we jumped at the chance to add real drama and moody ambiance to the space… and we’ve already seen the after photos from their paint-fest this weekend. Let’s just say it looks uh. mazing.
Oh and some detail shots they sent over of the chandelier revealed that it’s super brassy and the plastic tiers are pretty bad when you get up close. So we can understand why they just wanted to start fresh for a whole new look. We can’t wait to see how it all turns out! Stay tuned…
xo,
s
Yes, the fact that the chandelier is plastic and not glass, with a brass base to boot, leaves A LOT to be desired. And I do understand wanting something new, even from a space you once loved. Must say I love the almost Mad Men feel of the mood board. I was just making sure I wasn’t completely out of it in my taste! Maybe there is hope for me after all.
LOVE the room and mood board and use of vibrant color that supercedes generic styling- definitely in my top 3!
My only gripe is practicing Yoga in this room, but I’m speaking from my own experience… I’m the type that needs space and light and lack of decor/intruding influences to do it properly and efficiently… there’s NO WAY I could work out in that room, especially with a prime time view of a Jeep in the driveway. Closing the drapes blocks out essential light, but opening them is exposing a driveway and a Jeep… Kudos to Bethany for being able to block out all that distraction and concentrate! I know I’d go batty!
I’m really glad Bex asked that question about being beyond decor redemption, because I had much the same reaction when I saw most of what was going on in the “before” shot. I’m rehabbing my fireplace right now TO look like their before-fireplace!
But I’m still excited to see the changes, especially with the new light fixture and other pieces! I especially love when you guys go moody and dramatic, like with Stacie’s home, one of my all-time faves.
Can’t wait to see the after of this one with dark colored walls.
I.heart.built-ins. :)
I love it! So dramatic and sexy. It’s very ’50s cocktail bar’ in the best possible way.
Thanks everyone for the comments – Blake and I have been painting like crazy and hope to be able to share the after pics very soon. Stay tuned – the room is almost unrecognizable! Also, we love it that some of you are fans of the before color – we didn’t think it was awful, but it just didn’t match our style. Unfortunately, we don’t know the name/brand because it was there before we bought the house. So sorry! Thanks so much Sherry and John – we LOVE your work!
Bethany & Blake
Gotta say that pic of John reminds me of my hubs! He’s always poking fun at Rob! lol.
Was part of this room once a garage? My grandpa’s house was like that. his car sat RIGHT outside the window too.
Great mood board! Love the colors, you can never go wrong with blue hues. Great job guys!
Just a note for anyone interested! World Market has a similar colored leather storage ottoman right now on sale… they also have a mail flyer floating around for 20 or 30% off sale and regular priced furniture. So if anyone is looking for a similar look at a great price point I thought I would share! They caught my eye because I have been scouring the internet for ottomans all week! (It doesn’t say online what the measurements are, so I’m not sure how the size compares.)LOVE this plan, and can’t wait to see the afters!
http://www.worldmarket.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3807667
Hey Lacey,
Thanks so much for the tip and the link! Gotta love a deal like that!
xo,
s
Can’t WAIT for the after pics- this is going to be such a dramatic makeover. The room has so many amazing features (fireplace, shelves, huge window), it just needs to realize it’s full potential!
that room reminds me of why I would love built-ins, those are gorgeous and add so much character! Love it! Can’t wait to see the room all finished!
I think your Twilight obsession is justified…the books are amazing…the movie..not so much…don’t miss her latest book called ‘The Host’- awesome!!!
Okay, so I’m with a few others here… I actually love the current light fixture!! I’ll admit, I don’t care for the brass AT ALL but that can be fixed! I seriously looked at the before pic’s and was like what?! this room looks great just the way it is! But I can definitely understand the fact that it doesn’t fit your current style. Can’t wait to see the after pic’s!!
Just found this on the local Richmond Craigslist:
http://richmond.craigslist.org/fuo/1461093960.html
Don’t know if Bethany & Blake would want to drive this way to save a couple bucks, but I thought I should pass it along. Can’t wait to see after pics!!
I actually own the couch that goes with those chairs – we got it off of Craigslist a few months ago. I love the pattern, and I like how it looks with their old wall color. I was trying to come up with a good accent color that would go with the couch and my gray walls, and I think I might try to find something similar. Thanks to Bethany!
I cannot wait to see the after of this room. I’m completely jealous and wish I had a room like this in my house. LOVE the built-ins, that fireplace (although I’m not sure how the brick will look once the walls are navy and built ins are gray, I don’t want to see it painted… and I’m usually all for painting brick!), the whole thing. :)
how ever out dated and out of place for this room i had to jump in and say i’m kind of in love with that chandy. it looks like something kelly wearstler would have no problem making look fabulous in a space.
For everybody who loved the old chandelier (me too, at least from the photo), here’s something similar for sale:
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What a fantastic room!! I can’t wait to see the afters. Gorgeous mood board! I really love the light and the mirror.