apartment therapy changing the world, one room at a time

You might want to look back over some of the smaller cooler photos. A few of them looked like similar architectural details to your new place. You'll probably get some great ideas. Can't wait to see your after pics!

Well, based on what you said, my first thought is darkish grey walls, white trim (add a wide crown molding if that sort of thing appeals to you), black and stainless steel sleek modern furniture, vivid red pillows, sofa throw, art. I'd put a gathering of pillar candles in the fireplace for that glow without a real fire.

Wow, a blank slate! What fun. I agree, check out the Small Cool stuff for inspiration.

You should pick a theme or a color scheme you like and then carry it out. Here are some more theme explorations - you can really go in any direction with your room: http://mochihome.com/?p=123

The key for you is to at least pick a starting theme (retro, modern bachelor pad, nautical) or start with an object you love (a cool chair, a piece of fabric, your favorite vase)

Definitely some accent painting on the wall behind the fireplace or paint and wallpaper in general (some more ideas here: http://mochihome.com/?p=159)

If you find a theme you like, I can test out some virtual paint color for you (so easy with a blank room!)

I can't wait to see the finished room. Good Luck!

I would say to put the money in the things you can take with you when you move and the cheap-creative energy goes into the things you can't take - the paint, wallpaper, etc.
If you are bad at visualizing furniture, put pieces of paper or cardboard on the floor where you might have a sofa, table bed, etc and see how the flow is walking around them. The same can happen for pictures on the wall - tape up paper the same size as your art or mirrors to see what combination works best before you put the nails in.
Have fun - it looks like a nice spot!

walls Grey
trim White
inside of fireplace Red
floors pale Grey

I think grey and white are an excellent choice for your walls and floor - also my personal favorites. If you want to go bold with vibrant colors, use them for furniture (sofa), accessoires (cushions, rugs) and art.

I agree: Medium Grey walls, White trim, palest blue ceiling, Charcoal/Black floors...

Save the red for accent colors on your predominantly white and grey upholstery and artwork - and use medium woodtones such as walnut for tables, casework, etc.

i'd paint the walls a very light ballet pink/mauve and accent them with a french vanilla color...oh and get rid of the ceiling fan, my dear!

Thank you everyone for the suggestions! I went with a dark blue-grey color for the walls, and a nice white for the trim and the mantle. It looks amazing. I decided not to paint the floors because I am just renting. I have many more things I want to do and feel like this is a great place to ask for opinions, so what do you all think is a good color for a bedspread with the color I have chosen for the walls?

Also, I will have after pictures to post soon!

Thanks again.

Something warm for the bedspread - red, yellow, or orange.

Go with a peacock-colored spread and accents - bright blue and green mixed with grey and black.

That mantle is fabulous - sounds like you made good choices to compliment!