Q - I want to update my livingroom with a fresh new look while using most of my existing furniture and still have a cozy space with rich colors. I have beige damask roll arm couches with multi colored floral pillows, my grandmothers antique end tables, chair and ottoman, a colorful rug that has seen its day, very formal curtains with dingy blinds. The walls are a light gold. The wood flooring looking worn too.
A - Lets begin with the basics. Empty that room and get a fresh coat of chocolate paint. Paint all of the trim; Yes , ALL of that woodwork.....windows, crown molding, base molding -everything in a creamy linen white semi gloss. A walnut stain with a satin finish will give the room a more sophisticated feel.
The most dramatic change can be achieved by replacing old blinds with soft wovens. Replace the formal draperies with straight ivory dupioni silk panels, shirred or pleated and hung from a 2" walnut pole with simple finials at either end. A few pillows ( dump the florals) in an aqua silk would be zippy - forget the trim this time, simple knife edged self welted pillows would add that pop of color and give the room a more transitional personality. A large lamb throw for the rug or the more affordable version, one of Stark Carpets new synthetic shags. Such fun! Keep those treasured antiques! They will now be exquisitely showcased in this new sleek environment.
Why not reupholster Granny's chair and ottoman in a fresh new modern design (Duralees Palladio Design by Phillip Gorrivan in ivory and tangerine wood be fresh and fun). Take the gilded mirror down from above the fireplace and lean it on the mantle. A collection of family photos all reprinted in sepia perhaps and similarly framed on a bare wall would be smashing.
Now we can slowly add a few select accessories; a stack of art books on the cocktail table, three chunky candles, a single orchid in a simple vessel. Voila! Your outdated living space now has a sleek, modern yet classic sensibility.