Before and After: Sparse, Huge Space to Conversation Area/Bedroom

IADA interior redesigners Sherry Oexman and Krista Mullen discuss how they were able to rearrange the furniture and accessories in a spacious master suite to make better use of the space.

• The bed was angled in one corner in the former sitting room. A ficus tree fills up the void behind the bed.
• The three dressers were brought into the new bedroom for continuity. A chair placed next to one creates a small dressing area.
• Artwork placed above the chair and two of the dressers mimic the style of the furniture. A mirror hung on the opposite wall reflects the artwork across from it.
• In the new sitting room, the sofa was placed in front of the angled wall. An area rug placed in front of the sofa anchors the space and detracts from the cold, tile floor.
• A recliner, rocker, chest and side tables are brought in and arranged around the sofa to create a cozy seating arrangement.
• The TV is housed in an armoire set under the highest point of the ceiling in the sitting room.
• The room is complete with artfully arranged accessories, like a pair of candlesticks, a stack of books and stones placed in and around the base of a vase.

Tips:

• Group dressers together in a bedroom to reinforce the idea that the space is for sleeping and dressing.
• Choose artwork that mimics the furniture it will be placed next to.
• Place the tallest piece of furniture underneath the highest point in the ceiling.
• Don't line furniture around the perimeter of a long and narrow room.
• Place mirrors so that they reflect an attractive view, whether it be of nature or artwork.