This post is sponsored by Modsy. The opinions and ideas in this post are completely my own.
Fun fact, my followers have never really seen a picture of my living room, and for good reason. Despite all of the energy, hard work, and inspiration we have poured into our kitchen, entryway, back yard, and garden-level apartment, our living room remains my least favorite room in the house – which is a total shame given all the time we spend in there. With the big pressing projects more or less finished, I’m starting to turn my attention to the rooms that I want to love – because I truly live in them!
So here’s the deal with our less-than-loved living room: it is small, has no windows, has this little door on one wall, and a large opening to the dining room on the opposite wall. That means that furniture placement is super limited and I can only sit two people comfortably in the space. Bummer! I’ve had a lot of time to think about my options, and I’ve been entraining 2 very different directions. Unfortunately, I’m still on the fence about which way to go. I’m hoping you, my internet friends, will chime in and let me know what you think!
Lucky for both of us, I teamed up with Modsy to create a few life-like renderings to help us explore the untapped potential of my sad living room. Pretty cool, right?
In case you are new to Modsy, it’s an online service that allows you to look at furniture and accessories in a highly realistic 3D rendering of your space. I still don’t know how they do it, but all you have to do is upload a few images of your space and before you know it, you are mixing and matching options in a scale model of your space. If you think that sounds like fun, you are totally right! Ready to get this virtual makeover party started? Ok, let’s go!
Option One
The first and by far the simplest option, is to embrace the small footprint of the room and simply add a few appropriately scaled pieces. In addition to its size issue, our living room is also suffering from a lack furniture. Believe it or not, we don’t have a rug, storage, or any extra seating. I know, it’s the classic case of a cobbler’s son having no shoes – I can’t believe it. But, the nice thing about designing a room from scale renderings is that it’s super easy to tell if a piece will work before you bring it home. That is especially nice because it is a small space, and I have no room for error.
So here’s what the space could be. Pretty good, right? I told you the renderings were life like! Going into this project, my number one goal was to add seating. Beyond that, I wanted to create a layered, inviting, well-lit space. I think this option accomplishes that!
Here’s a look at the other side of the room. I am ready for a total refresh so everything here is new! The first order of business has to be the sofa. We love our old one, but this new one is just a little shorter with the same amount of seating. Our current sofa is too long to accommodate side tables, but still only seats two. To a designer, that is crazy talk, and we can do better! This new sofa is a win-win.
Opposite the sofa I added a smaller occasional chair. I’ve actually tried adding a chair here in the past but because our current sofa was so long it felt a little congested. The new sofa frees up much-needed floor space (another win). I love the wallpaper and knew I wanted to keep it, so I added a couple of strategically place mirrors to help create the illusion of more light.
Layering 2 lighter colored rugs and 2 glass top tables also helped keep the space feeling light and bright. I added a white ceramic chandelier for overhead lighting (on a dimmer of course) and a couple of floor lamps for mood lighting.
We actually watch a lot of television, so if we go with this option, I will be seeing a lot of this view. The console has a light feel because of the glass panels which is super important in this small space. Plus, it is providing some much-needed storage!
Here’s another view of the space looking back into our dining room. But there’s more…
Option Two
Ladies and gentleman, I give you option two. The second direction is a much bigger undertaking, but I think it could definitely be worth it. This option involves removing a wall. Specifically, we would have to remove the wall with the black door (check option one) and join the current living room with a similarly sized space on the other side of the wall. I’ve already investigated, and it is not a load bearing wall so I’m free to demo. The new floor plan would look like this. For reference, the old wall divided these two spaces in half.
I’m not sure what possessed one of the previous owners to divide up the space in its current configuration. My best guess is that it had something to do with creating extra bedrooms. The new space will be bigger and much brighter but it does involve loosing what is technically classified as a second, first floor bedroom. I can’t image anyone in their right mind ever using the space that way, but for the purpose of resale, that kind of thing can matter. I still think the overall payoffs would be worth it.
I used a lot of the same pieces from design option one for this space. However, I opted for a slightly larger chair and added in a new side table and reading light. I also swapped out the white chandelier for these simpler, clear glass pendants. The new space will actually have 2 ceiling lights, so I felt that something simpler was in order.
The wall behind the blue chair with the credenza is the former location of the sofa if you can believe it! My plan is to use the credenza to store my printer and all our home office stuff that desperately needs a place.
As another point of reference, this is the wall that formally had the green Fornasetti paper. If I go with this direction, that beautiful paper will also have to go (my sister just read that and died) — But don’t worry I have a plan!
Another big change I’m considering as part of this plan is the addition of an opening between the new living room and the hallway. The new opening mirrors the one to the bedroom in size and shape and it sits about where the television was in the first configuration. The new opening really opens up the narrow space and allows for a less constricted flow.
Recently, I’ve been obsessed with decorative painting. So in this second option, I want to try my hand at some DIY trump l’oil moldings. I found this simple molding stencil and I actually think that will make this a pretty easy project.
The other plan I have for this space is adding a (non working) vintage fireplace mantel. Our house was built in 1910 which is just on the cusp of when builders stopped putting in fireplaces. Unfortunately, we ended up on the short end of the stick and I would be thrilled to install one. I was emboldened by the fireplace I successfully made for the One Room Challenge back in October. I think both of those details would go a long way towards making the space feel like it is original to the house.
In this layout, the sofa lives away from the wall. Behind the sofa are French doors that lead to our bedroom. Luckily, that room gets a ton of light. Besides space, one of the primary advantages of option two is that the new living room will get light from two directions!
Rather than using one big rug in the space, I’ve gone with 2 smaller ones. I love the look, but it is something I’ve never done in real life. Testing an out of the box solutions like this rug combo is super easy when you can use a platform like Modsy to pretty much switch things up endlessly.
Well, what do you think? Option one or option two? I think I have a favorite, but I really want to hear form you. I obviously enjoyed taking Modsy for a test run, and am thankful for these awesome renderings. Now you get to see my vision and judge for yourself! As a designer, I imagine new spaces and renovations all day long, and it’s challenging to visualize how a space will look, even for me. With Modsy’s drag and drop scale model, you can put the math aside and let creativity have free reign!
How will you choose?!? I seriously can’t pick one over the other – both look amazing!
Chelsea, it’s a hard one. My heart is with option 2 but it’s a lot more work. #demolife
Well of course option 2 is amazing! Bigger, brighter, bolder and I love the idea of adding a non-working fireplace. I agree with you – being able to see the pieces to scale in the room before committing is a game changer!
Thanks Kelly, I’t really takes a lot of the guess work out! I like option 2 as well… but it’s a MUCH bigger job! 😂
Both are gorgeous (because you’re an amazing designer), I gravitate towards #2 because the feel & flow of the room seem to fit in better with the rest of your house, but the only thing I noticed was a purpose change in the room. You said you guys watch a lot of tv, so would a living room sans tv be useful? I’m all for moving the tv to a different room, I’m just curious how you tackle issues like that as a designer. How do you balance how someone lives in the space versus aesthetics? I’m still trying to learn that balance, because choosing aesthetics over function happens on occasion 😡
Ah, thanks Jessica & good eye! We will eithe move the tv to another room or maybe put it on top of the mantle. I’m still not sure.
Hands down #2 with the extra wall opened!
P.S. And also somehow use the new occasional chair from #1?!
Good call! That chair is awesome!
As a Realtor (and a design snob), I’d like to weigh in 🙂
Go with option 2. One of he bigger complaints I see in historic homes, in town homes and in condos is a cramped feeling in area that have been altered to create more rooms. Disregard the fact that you’re losing the first floor bedroom, and consider the value you’ve added to the basement apartment as well as through the renovations you’ve done so far. I think you’ll be happier in the long run, and I don’t see resale value as an issue with one fewer sleeping space.
Also- I just found your one room challenge yesterday via Pinterest, and I LOVE the space. I may end up in your basement the next time we’re in New York!
Cheers,
Joyce
http://www.yoursmostsincerely.com
Hi Joyce!
You are exactly the person I wanted to hear from on the removing a bedroom vs resale issue. You have given me a license to demo 😉
Oh, I’m so glad to hear it!! Hooray! I can’t wait to see the progress.
Like Jessica, I’m curious about the TV function. Also, how are you currently using the small bedroom? I’m leaning option two because I’m a sucker for a great mantle, but they’re both beautiful. Also, there’s something to be said for a deeper, cozier interior space as in option 1.
Hey Steff!
So as far as the TV goes we will either move or to another room or most likely incorporate it above the mantle or maybe above the credenza. I’m still thinking it over.
You’ll notice I didn’t include a picture of that space because it is basically storage right now. It is not being put to good use, like I didn’t want to hurt your eyes bad! Currently its home to a vintage claw foot tub… we have a major bathroom renovation in our future!
Both are fantastic, as is everything you do, but I would go with option 2. By the way, do you know where the second larger picture or print on the fireplace mantle in option 2 is from? Thanks
Thanks Anna!
I’ll post a shopping guide later this week. I gotta check on the sources!
Wow, I’m totally blown away that these are renderings
I know, I wanna skip the renovation and just upload myself to these rooms!
This is so so cool! How realistic! I’m totally digging them both but leaning more to option two
I think so to julia! In my mind I was on the fence but seeing it like this makes option 2 my top pick.
OPTION TWO!!! And I’ll be inviting myself over to see the space in person when you finish. 🙂 Also…these renderings!!!
Thanks Kate & totally come visit. #2 seems to be the consensus. Guess I gotta put my Reno hat on and get to work 😉
Oh my word, please go with option 2! All that space! All that light! A fireplace! And the bonus of having a ton of circulation throughout… you can’t go wrong!
We you actually see the renderings it’s hard not to love option 2… Thanks for chiming in!
Ok, I can’t even tell you how stinking excited I am about Modsy!!! This is so exciting!!! Can’t wait to get my computer back from the "hospital" and give it a test run!!! Woot woot!
Megan, both options are beautiful! But… my vote is option 2 with removing the walls. I really believe that when a living space is beautiful, it enhances your home! While #1 is insanely beautiful, in comparison, it’s limiting! #2 is my vote! Brilliant designs girl! Xo
Thanks Heather! Get that computer back and check them out… it’s so super fun! I guess I need to get my demo hat on… options 2 here I come!
WOW!!! Love option two, and you said it yourself, your existing space isn’t working for you. Glad Modsy helped your vision!
You’re so right. Sometimes you just need to lay out all the options to see things clearly!
I’m all in on option 2! I think it would be a game changer to ditch that wall. Which was way the heck easier to see with these renderings!!
Right?! I knew it would be better but wow, it’s way better!
I’m all about option 2 girl! And those renderings are redic! How cool!
I know right, kinda no contest! It’s just a bigger undertaking… but you know I love a challenge!
Definitely love number 2. Such an inviting space. Good luck with this project.
OMG option two all the way and I’m inspired by the faux moldings. I too have large flat walls and don’t love a ton of art and can’t wait to see how to work that into my own decor. Also love the layering of the rugs! Genius.
Thanks Melissa, I think painted faux moldings will do wonders for your blank walls and they are definitely a low risk solution! Let me know if you end up giving it a try!
I really like one but 2 makes more sense to me, especially if you like to entertain.
Jess! That seems to be the consensus. option 2 is just a lot more work! But that’s never stoped me before, LOL!
Oh, so awesome! Love your picks and that 3D option is SO cool! Without a doubt, my humble opinion is two. The light is such a huge deal to me & such a mood enhancer. Also, giving you more options for storage and I love that the architecture of the French doors adds so much to the feeling of the room. Whatever you decide, I am sure it will be beautiful but, I’d bet two would make you happier in the long run.
Xo
Melissa
Melissa, I’m pretty sure your right. My heart is with option 2! Thanks for chiming in ♥️
i love two! it definitely has my vote!
Thanks Cassie! Me too ♥️I better get my demo hat on. Thanks for voting!
Your design is always amazing! I love option 2. Where are those lights from? AMAZING!!!
Amy, let me get back to you on the lights. #2 is the hands down winner
Option #2 all the way. What an amazing space you can create! And I am absolutely FLOORED by these renderings. They are incredible. xx
I know, I was floored too! they make decision making so simple!
Option 2 all the way! Option 1 simply doesn’t do justice to the rest of your fabulous house.
I think you are 100% right and so does everyone else… LOL room one got no love : )
This is absolutely incredible! I can’t believe the quality of these renderings!!! Both options are stunning, but of course option 2 is incredible!
Thanks, lady. That seems to be the crowd favorite!
Option 2!
I’m gonna check out Modsy, could be great help for our living room 🙂
; )
Option 2 all the way! Can’t wait to see you work your magic!!
Ha Ha, that’s the hands down favorite! thanks for checking in : )
Obviously Option 2 would be awesome! So beautiful! Hoping you are willing to forgo a bedroom!
Hey Kelly! Everyone’s enthusiasm for option one has really inspired me to go for it! Just need to make a game plan and get the demo started!
Megan,take down that wall!
Sue, It’s coming down! ; )
It’s going to be stunning! Good luck Meg!
Hi Claire, Thanks for checking it!
Option 2 all the way! The only drawback is that you will have to live through a demo…
Ha ha, Windy, that is literally my ONLY reservation! Just when the dust settles I’m back at it. : )
WOWZERS! this is awesome. I love option 1 but still love seeing option 2. These are so life like!!
Hi Stephanie! Thanks for checking in! Option 2 is totally the winner! It just means living with some demo. Luckily, I’m no stranger to that!
WAY cool! I need to use this! I’m getting sick of Polyvore
HI Ariel, Thanks!
Holy crud, that’s an amazing software! I think I’d go with option two – opening up the space.
Eliesa, I know right ?! Option 2 is totally the winner.
Megan, option 2 all the way… The real question, however, is: where is the light fixture from your "before" from??
Hi Alexander, I actually made that light fixture : )
WOW I can’t decide which one blew me more, the design choices or the software.
I know right it’s a hard choice!
Most definitely the latter choice. I love the duplicitous setting of couch vs. chair, two distinct lamps and layered rugs.
thanks for checking in Marion!
I really love the 1st look but I would say if you have the $$ and ambition, you will be much happier with the larger, more open space. Love the bigger, light filled room. I vote you Go For It! 🙂
Thanks Debbie, I’m still trying to make the call. I really love the open plan and larger space but other things might be taking priority.
I love your work! Quick question, how are you mounting the Vanity Fair poster in the first picture? It doesn’t look framed. I have two posters that are larger than normal poster size and am looking for cheap alternatives for mounting/framing Them. I don’t want to spend $200/poster… Ideas?
Well, that image is actually a virtual rendering so it’s no a real photo. That said try searching oversized poster frame and you should find lots of options.
I really like the examples of the work you were doing. It can be difficult to do a good job with renovations when you are in a TIME FRAME. The basement after framing seems much better than the pictures before. I like how you did some things yourself and got contractors for other things. I think people forget how good it may be not having to worry about doing it yourself.
INCREDIBLE to write a person’s blog. I think your blog may be the best blog I’ve found on the Internet. Please post a person’s blog daily so we receive a person’s blog in order to read every day.
Option 2 for sure, a lot easier said than done as the budget must increase but who wants to sleep down THEre? Happy renovating ANd happy nesting!
I totally agree! It’s fun to look back on this post because we are totally focused on the Lodge and kinda leaving things as in in our Brooklyn place.
Wonderful transformation and I love it! Thanks for sharing this amazing post.