country home

The owners wished to re-do their living room décor to bring it more up to date. The room previously featured overstuffed traditional furniture, a Persian carpet in a deep burgundy and royal blue against a backdrop of faux distressed walls in ochre with pale blue trim (circa 1990’s). They envisioned a fresh, more contemporary look, but in keeping with their country estate home’s existing antique paintings, detailed millwork, hickory flooring, coffin ceiling, and large stone fireplace.

A large black antique grand piano with stunning inlay, created a challenge to position so as not to overwhelm the room. The solution was to move it into the bay window and angle it inwards to minimize its visual weight.

The walls, ceiling and trim were painted a consistent warm white. By also painting the inset pine bookcase, the consistent colour unifies, creating a simplified backdrop.

The owners preferred a variety of seating options in lieu of a sectional sofa option. A more transitional-styled sofa is paired with mid-century swivel bucket chairs and contemporary angular chairs. A pair of chocolate brown leather ottomans flank the fireplace, provide additional seating for entertaining. A distressed grey wood coffee table top echoes the country vibe of the imposing stone fireplace, as does the twig inspired metal floor lamp.

The soft furnishings were upholstered in neutrals, light and mid-tone taupe and grey, to compliment the tones in a geometric patterned area rug. Gold toned accent cushions play off the brass chair and table legs and floor lamp. Geometric patterns are repeated throughout, as is the dramatic contrast between light and dark elements.

The overall effect is an airy, visually calm yet sophisticated living room, that begs one to enter, relax and enjoy the surroundings.