Fabulous Formal Living Room

Before

Last year Navin and Becky Narang and their daughter moved into a contemporary 4,400-square-foot home. The Narangs love the size and location of the house and have made many improvements both internally and externally over the past year to better suit their tastes. Now that the main rooms are complete, however, they're turning their attention to the formal living room. Since it's the first room that you see upon entering off the formal rotunda and since it has a spectacular view, the Narangs are hoping an expert designer can create a classy and elegant formal gathering spot that is inviting to guests but also kid-friendly. Which designer will they choose for the project?

After

After careful consideration, Navin and Becky decide to go with Beth Whitlinger's rustic Italian design. The faux-finished walls add color and warmth to the room. They are enhanced by the crackled dark finish of the new crown and base molding, which creates an aged look and a sense of formality. The faux finish on the surround and mantel is also accentuated by the intricate tile work around the fireplace that mimics the rotunda floor. New furniture pieces and a fish tail palm dress the living room, which looks out to the resort-style backyard with expansive city views, while a carefully chosen mirror on the wall opposite the windows and new lighting help to open up the space and bring it to life. The ceiling of the adjoining rotunda is adorned with a stunning mural of the setting sky, and a center table pulls the focus when it is enhanced by the ambient overhead lighting. Finally, both rooms are tied together with several art pieces that add character and complete the space.

sofa (Taos fabric) - Kravet

custom throw pillows - Unique Quilting

side chairs - JDM/ Juhasz, Inc.

custom Coffee table/ iron/wood side table & entry table - Pacifica Iron Designs

side table (Hammery) - Joseph Christian Showroom

artwork, custom framing - Westervelt's Fine Art

stone crown molding, stone fireplace liner (Jeffrey Court), iridescent glass mosaic tile, Honey Onyx mosaic tile (Oceanside) - Surface Concepts

slate tile (2 x 2 Madrid Apricot) - Jolanta Tile

custom sculpture, candleholders (Palladio Series) - F. Raymond Lighting

custom paint - John Trainor, Scottish Traditional Painting

wall sconce - Hubbardton Forge/ Lighting Artistry

ceramic table lamp - Hubbardton Forge

custom mural, faux finish of accessory pedastals in entry - Mural Man

entry and living room chandeliers - Minka/ Lighting Artistry

Cave Bronze stoneware square vase, inlaid sentiment box with bamboo handle, Modo and Zen ceraminc vases, Nusatenggara Pumpkin medicine stand - Mikim Home Collection

inlaid wicker box, green bowl, red bamboo vase - De Benedictis

vase in entry - Show Place South