
Laura spent seven years using this room, with its high ceilings and statement fireplace, as a family room. But considering its pass-through and access to the kitchen, she found a new purpose for the space that felt more natural.

The process of transforming a living space into a dining space may not have been without challenges, but the results are stunning!
From Laura:
Seven years into living in our home, we realized that we wanted our family room to be relocated to what once was a sunroom. Initially the idea sounded great, but how do you convert a large family room into a comfortable breakfast area? Since the area is right off the main kitchen, I needed to create a look and flow that seamlessly joined the two spaces.
First thing was to paint the walls a lighter color (I choose Polished Pearl). Then I lightened up the mantle and built-ins with a color called Old White, so it would brighten the space. With a few other changes in accessories, rugs and furniture we have successfully accomplished our mission!
For more before & after photos, check out Laura's blog, Top This Top That.
Thanks, Laura!
Have your own Before & After project you'd like to share with the editors? Submit it here.
(Images: Top This Top That)

Sprout Side Table
Bravo!
The "after" is lovely, but comparing the first space to the second is almost unfair. I would have loved to see the first iteration as it looked as a family room, and not as an almost blank space.
ridiculously dreamy. From 70s nightmare to french country
I would get a chandelier over the table though
Wow, love that fire place!
This room is so much brighter now! Love the furnishings aswell
I agree that a chandelier would be great, but this is such an improvement and creative use of space.
SkippingDaisies - family room pictures are on the blog page
Good job on painting and adding stuff to the empty room.
Great job! The people who chose the paint originally must have really, really liked the color coral.
So much better. What a huge difference a coat of paint makes.
What a transformation! Paint really does wonders. Great job!
Beatiful!
Beatiful!
Um, beautiful. Sorry. I need a vacation.
This should be required reading for everyone who writes one of those "How do I paint or box in my ugly stone fireplace?" letters to Good Questions.
AMAZING transformation! What creativity.
Excellent job!