I was so excited when my neighbors told me that they needed my help updating their formal living room into a kid friend living room. Dirk, an architect and Renee, a teacher craved a room reflecting how their lives have changed after having their daughter Harper.
Before: Beige, Boring and Bland
The large open sunken living room was the perfect place for color and to highlight their collection of original oil paintings and antiques from Dirk’s native Germany but the hospital cream background lacked sophisticated style.
I had a vision to infuse this light filled room with color, pattern, texture and ample storage for all of Harpers toys and games.
The wall color was inspired from the German expressionistic paintings. Cool turquoises and blues and an array of earthy warm colors were the perfect palette. The existing frames were a bit tired so a trip to the framer was one of the first stops. We chose dark wood frames and light linen mattes for the larger oils and gold delicate frames for the smaller pieces. 
Neutral basics with pops of Color
The neutral sectional sofa with chaise was purchased from IKEA. Two colorful lime green damask Harden chairs were bought on Etsy. The wing back chairs flank an antique table that nestle in the front bay window area perfectly. An ideal place for the morning sun.
Adding Color To the Walls
The walls were painted Sherwin Williams Oyster Bay and the backs of the bookcases a rich brown color Quiver Tan. Updated fireplace sconces from found at Circa lighting frame out the large mantel mirror. Adjustable oil rubbed bronze arm lighting from Restoration Hardware highlight the art. books, accessories and frames in the built-in bookcases.
Book Shelf Styling
Book shelves were styled using Dirk’s extensive collection of architecture and design books. Making sure to group like colors and alternate vertical and horizontal placement. The black and white pen drawings fit perfectly in the open space of the bottom of the bookcase. Natural elements such as wicker, wood ,bone inlay, coral, and grasses add an organic and eclectic feel. Shimmery mercury glass lamps, picture frames and candles bounce the light and add sparkle. Cream linen drapery panels from Pottery Barn soften the windows and bring your eyes up in this kid friendly living room.
Wool Carpets
A wool Stark carpet with a graphic golden key pattern was bound just shy of the size of the room. The rest of the room was filled with Dirk and Renee’s antiques from Germany including a beautiful blanket chest that was refinished and painted black to anchor one corner of the room and tie in with the other black and dark pieces.
Coffee Table Storage
A large square coffee table from Restoration Hardware hides baskets underneath housing all of Harper’s toys and dolls white providing a perfect play space for games and crafts. Storage ottomans purchase from HomeGoods serve as addition seating and a pop of color in the middle of the room. Faux fur blanket from Pottery Barn and a mix of colorful graphic pillows are scattered amongst the furniture. Now, this family of three and two furry friends have a perfect kid friendly living room for play, relaxation, and entertaining.
Shortly after finishing Dirk and Renee’s living room I headed upstairs to give their daughter Harper a sophisticated little girls room using Pink, turquoise and Sherwin Williams Color fo the Year Poised Taupe. Its been one of my most pinned rooms on my Meme Hill Pinterest Board.
Thank you and see you in the next room makeover! Amie
