Published: March 16, 2011, By Abbe Fenimore

A Few Simple Changes

It’s amazing what a change in paint color, a new rug and a few accessories can do to update a space. This open kitchen, dining and sitting area was in serious need of an update and de-cluttering. I love all the windows, exposed bring and especially the dark wood floors!  We started with a rusty red wall in the dining room, it just didn’t compliment the space so it had to go.   We replaced the oversized sofa with an open chaise lounge so guests could socialize with each other while still being a part of the action in the kitchen.  It’s easy to update and freshen up a space, just be open mined and prepared to part with a few pieces that just don’t work and are holding the space back.

BEFORE

AND AFTER….Open and airy, the new chaise lounge completely changes the entire look and feel of this sitting area.

BEFORE: A better look at the oversized sofa and red wall.

AFTER: The fresh green accent wall (Benjamin Moore Urban Nature) is much more soothing and easily updated the space. We added a jute rug with a simple border because the red and cream rug that was there first wasn’t working.  A drum pendant brings in much needed light to the dining area while simple graphic linen drapes from West Elm soften all of the hard edges in the space.

Drapery Tip: If you find draperies that you love but they are not long enough for the area you want to hang them, add a coordinating fabric to lengthen them. This creates a custom look and is an affordable way to get the length you need with out having them custom made. We added a solid piece to the top of these drapes, we thought it would be an interesting look and would draw attention to the high ceilings.

Updating a large space can be easy and affordable. We removed most of the pieces that were too large for the space as well as the dark rug in the dining room.  The jute rug, drum pendant and drapes were all very affordable and made a huge impact  in the dining room with out the huge price tag.  The chaise lounge was the biggest investment in the space and it too updated the space instantly.   If  your feeling overwhelmed with your open space, step back and look at simple changes like a new paint color, new drapes and affordable lighting.