idea notebook
A Versatile Living-Room Makeover This once-basic space does double-duty, thanks to the easy addition of colorful accessories— and one clever furniture swap.
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BE FO RE
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f living rooms are truly meant for living—in every sense of the word—then shouldn’t you be able to dine in them, too? We certainly think so, which is why we didn’t just punch up the palette of this all-white “before” (above), but changed its very purpose. A new, 30-inch-tall table opens up a world of possibilities, creating a casual place for family dinners, homework sessions, late-night card games, and more. Paint, pillows, and other accessories bring some much-needed fun to the functionality. As for that now-unnecessary dining room: May we suggest turning it into a home office or guest bedroom? —JOURDAN CROUCH
62 . COU N T RY L I V I N G.C O M . SEPTEMBER 2010
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1. TABLE The key to a livingdining setup that really works: a table that’s not quite as long as the sofa, allowing enough clearance to move in and out easily. (For similar: $599; crateandbarrel.com)
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2. LAMP A vibrant cerulean base and simple white shade flip the switch on the more expected combo of business on the bottom, party on the top. (Base, $169; ballard designs.com) 3. PAINT Benjamin Moore’s Cool Sky brings sophisticated yet subtle color to the walls. ($37.88 per gallon; myperfect color.com) 4. PILLOWS These easy-tochange accessories offer a commitment-free way to perk up white furniture. (On sofa, from left to right: blue, $90 for cover; johnrobshaw.com; Thomas Paul lavender, $110; twochicksandcompany.com; blue, $100 for cover; john robshaw.com; green, $88; serenaandlily.com. On chair: blue, $75 for cover; john robshaw.com.)
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5. SEATING Unify mismatched chairs by spray-painting both the same shade. (On blue vintage chair, at front: Krylon Global Blue spray paint, $6.99 for 12 ounces; joann.com. Cushion, $88; serenaandlily.com. Blue chair, at back: $350; mainecottage.com.)
PHOTOGRAPHS BY MELANIE ACEVEDO
6. FABRIC Draping a yard of striped linen over the back of a wing chair delivers the pow of new upholstery without the price tag. (For similar: $24 per yard; ballarddesigns.com) 7. RUG Put color and character in an unexpected place—the floor—with a bold floral rug. ($149.99; 60”W x 84”L; target.com) SEE SHOP GUIDE, page 143, for more product information.