Handsome seating in beige and blue encourage relaxed conversation and casual entertaining. Lightening the natural wood on the ceiling beams and simplifying the fireplace opens the space, making the most of the copious light from the windows. A pair of distinctive floral chintz chairs overlook matching blue ottomans and the newly brightened stone fireplace.

Before its redesign, this living room was out of balance, overpowered by the dark wood in the ceiling beams and on the substantial fireplace surround.

Before redesign, the breakfast nook presented a traditional motif.

The breakfast nook is now an inviting and practical work-or-play space. The round dark wood table is balanced by the grey wood and upholstered chairs — a welcoming spot for kids to complete homework and the family to gather for casual meals. A simple iron chandelier with oversized prisms adds a touch of formality to the space. The addition of built-in bookcases offers ample storage for serve ware and cookbooks.