Living Room Makeover - Part 2

When embarking on a new project it is often the case that you may already possess items that you want to incorporate into your rooms' decor.  Or while on your travels in search for inspiration you come across an accessory, fabric or picture that becomes your 'jumping off point' for the room.

When I began to source fabrics for Dorothy and Geoffrey's living room Maxwell Fabrics had just launched a new line that I thought would be worth showing them samples of.  We had already discussed ideas for a colour scheme based on hues they were drawn to so I had a good idea of what to look for. 

This is the fabric sample, but the picture really does it no justice.

You need to touch and hold this fabric to truly appreciate it's beauty.  The colours are rich, yet soft and the extra layer of fabric over top the background gives it added texture.  It was decided that this fabric would be used for the draperies and as the inspiration piece for the room. 

The colour you don't really notice from the picture above is the lavish plum that is used for the colouring of the florals with the green and gold.  I suggested that the lead edge of the draperies should be this colour to compliment the purple hue within the pattern. 

 Tiebacks will be added to gently pull the curtains to the sides to allow for maximum light

The draperies were made with 6" pinch pleated goblets and come just to the floor.  When choosing fabrics for custom window treatments it is important to show a sample to your workroom or seamstress so they can confirm that the material is suitable for the application you have in mind.  This fabric is quite thick, therefore once hung they were very full bodied which enables you to admire the beauty of the entire pattern.

These 2 carved walnut Victorian parlour chairs were in unbelievably good condition considering they must be from the late 1800's.   It was agreed however, that they were ready for an updated look. 

The curves of the hip rails and cabriole legs add to this chairs delicate appearance.

This is the 'Mama' chair re-upholstered in plum velvet.

Lillian August offers some of the most exquisite fabrics and this plum velvet was no exception.  We used this 'Dewitt Plum' on the front of the chairs and for accent cushions on the sofa. I suggested using the same Maxwell fabric on the back of the chairs that had been used for the draperies to give it a special touch and additional flow to the room's overall design.

If I'd added throw cushions in this same fabric it would have been too 'matchy matchy'.

Their wing back chair was re-upholstered in a Robert Allen striped fabric.   The colours are more muted but still carry the similar tones of the draperies, minus the plum.  This chair was originally in my client's bedroom and when I saw it I asked if they would consider moving it into the living room.  Always look at what can be re-worked or upcycled from other areas of your home before purchasing new items.  You may just be surprised at what you find!

The camel back sofa with a skirted bottom was a custom purchase that quietly fits in with the style of the room.  The throw  cushions compliment the rooms' colour scheme and the pattern of the golden cushions  bring a more modern feel without being too 'loud'.

Finishing touches have yet to be added.   Photographs were taken by me, please excuse the angle, lighting etc.

I love mixing old and new pieces together to give a one of a kind look.  If you have antiques don't be afraid to include them into your decor, but be sure you have other antique items to support your eclectic style so that they don't look out of place. 

If you want to know a great place to buy older pieces of furniture, check out Aberfoyle Antique Market (one of my fab finds!) when it opens again this spring.  Be sure to read this prior to your visit and you will be better prepared for what to expect and how to shop with confidence.

If you like this living room makeover and are considering a renovation or decorating project of your own, please e-mail me at claire@creatingcontrastdesigns.com. I will be more than happy to help make your dreams for your home a reality.