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FAMILY LIVING ROOM 

PROJECT TYPE: Living Room Design

PROJECT LOCATION: Hornchurch, Essex
O'Neill Living room .jpg

PROJECT BRIEF:

In many homes, there is one room that is challenging to tackle. It’s hard to visualise the changes needed to make it work. This was the case for my client. They had lived in the house for several years and had updated most rooms, but when it came to the living room, they were stuck.

 

As a result of several property extensions, the living room was dark and the client referred to it as ‘the cave’. To try to brighten this space, the previous owner had installed 14 downlights which created harsh and linear lighting, comparable to an airport runway. 

 

The living room was also a thoroughfare to the conservatory and the stairs up to the bedrooms. It lacked a focal point and a sense of identity, so it was an underused space. 

 

The client wanted an interior design solution that would create a comfortable, sociable space for the family to gather and relax. They wanted to retain the existing sofas and an armchair with sentimental value but were open to all other design solutions. A mantlepiece, a place for the record player and some storage were on the wish list.

The client wanted an interior design solution that would create a comfortable, sociable space for the family to gather and relax.

INTERIOR DESIGN SOLUTIONS:

The starting point for this project had to be the lighting. Until we created a layered lighting solution, we would never achieve the desired ambience for the living room. I recommended a central statement pendant, lighting in bespoke joinery and table lamps. Together these offer the flexibility to select appropriate luminosity for the time of day and activity.

 

To create a focal point and address the wish list, I advised on an item of bespoke joinery. This included

a faux fireplace with the desired mantlepiece and space for an electric heater or to dress with a large vase or candles. In addition, the design provided an area for a wall-mounted TV, cupboard storage and shelves for books and ornaments. 

A second piece of furniture was designed for the other end of the room. Coupled with a comfy armchair, and side table, this created a cosy reading nook by the garden-facing window.  It also provided a small cupboard to store the client’s vinyl collection, as well as hiding internet routers and telephone cables. 

 

Positioning an ottoman in the centre of the room, offered an adaptable solution. It’s a storage solution and coffee table, which provides extra seating when the whole family visits. 

 

A light colour scheme with a warm neutral tone on the walls was a must. In addition, painting the joinery in a soft green created a sense of calm.  We injected pattern on the Roman blinds for both the windows and the ottoman in the middle of the room. Then, for the final touch, cushions were placed on the sofas and chairs to pull the scheme together.

THE OUTCOME:

Removing the downlights and replacing them with layered lighting had a huge impact on this project. Coupled with the creation of a focal point, this reinstated the living room as the heart of this family home.

 

Adding colour and pattern to the room better reflects the owners’ personalities and they feel more at home. With space for their collection of ornaments, books and records, they were delighted to unpack boxes and have treasures in easy reach. They now enjoy relaxing in the space and love inviting family and friends over to enjoy it too.

For more information about my Room Design Service click the button below:

CLIENT TESTIMONIAL

 

'I contacted Alix with a view of decorating our rather odd shaped living room. In short, now that I have worked with Alix I think everyone should!

Alix took time to speak to and visit us to get an understanding of what we did and didn't like. Alix then gave us a mood board and some ideas, it was lovely. She just understood us from the start, always happy to help she gave us ideas we wouldn't have thought of but we loved.

Sometimes there is too much choice, but the beauty is you get professional help and items suggested and place you might not have shopped at before. I loved this!

Alix is very professional and seeing her lovely smile when we did each video call was a joy.'

Are you interested in booking my Room Design service?

Please call Alix Stoney

on 07747 555879 to discuss your project requirements or use my contact form.

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