Fantastic Family Room

To break up the long, linear feel of the room, the rectangle of the seating area (couch, loveseat, two chairs) is placed opposite the rectangle of the room--that is, the longest part of the seating area spans the shortest dimension of the room.

To make the room more inviting, walls were painted the same khaki color used in the balcony room visible from the great room. Using the same color also gives a feel of continuity to an area broken by multiple windows and doorways. An accent wall was painted a deeper shade of the same color to warm up the room and pull the high ceilings down. The monochromatic wall color makes decorating easier.

Windows were covered with wood slat blinds in a medium tone to match the walls . They provide privacy when completely closed, and can direct the sunlight during the day, or open entirely to take advantage of the view. They are easy to install using a couple of brackets. Tab-top drapes in a cream color were added for softness.

To liven up the unadventuresome throw pillows on the couches, Hiller adds a colorful plaid to contrast with the floral and solids already in use. She creates an easy cover by sewing an open-ended bag for each pillow, using just less than a yard of fabric. She adds ties and slips the pillow in, ties it up, and lets the original fabric show through the open end. Covers can be changed seasonally, if desired.

To fill in the large area over the fireplace, Matt Fox attaches some large tree branches to the wall. First drill a pilot hole through the branch in spots where the branch naturally touches the wall. Secure with anchor bolts.

Adding Personality

Given the homeowner's assortment of decorative objects for filling in the nooks and crannies of the room, Hiller notes they do not follow a similar theme. They are unified by their colors, however, so they will work together.

Tips

• When buying upholstered furniture, consider contrast piping. It is an easy way to add dimension and interest.
• When accessorizing a room, identify the areas that need a lift, and address the problem. Don't be in a rush. It may take years to collect just the right pieces, but it will be worth the wait.

paint for walls (Renaissance Wooden Banister #R291B / alternate color: Basketweave #2A-4) Dutch Boy

blinds(Country Woods Artisan Series, White Oak, 2" slats #835-A, Natural tapes #104) Hunter Douglas

furniture (all discontinued) La-Z-Boy:
Mirage sofa (LAZ61-865)
Mirage loveseat (LZB63-865)
fabric on sofa and loveseat (#D431125 with contract welt #D431163 and contrast pillow #E405825)
Camden arm chairs (LZB22-819)
fabric on arm chairs (#E405825)

case goods (Hammary American Heritage Collection) Hammary:
cocktail table (HAM#44203-00)
round lamp table (HAM#44235-00)