Before & After: The Goodbye to Matchy-Matchy Makeover

Shanta lives in Forest Hills in a prewar one bedroom apartment. Spacious and with good light, this living room has lots going for it, but lacks color and a real sense of Shanta’s personality. Everything matches, which while not a bad thing, can feel too safe and sterile. The team at Real Simple turned things around…

… and helped make the space sing!

The Real Simple makeover (which looks so warm and upbeat in comparison) incorporates a few smart “tricks” that are worth a closer look:

• Patterned drapes are extended out beyond the actual window on both sides, which helps to balance the white walls and creates a focal point.

• The tv is hung on the wall as part of a gallery installation of several different sized framed pieces of art. It allows the tv to be at a good height for viewing from the sofa, while not overpowering the look of the whole wall.

• Symmetrical lamps and side tables reinforce the balance of the room and minimize any potential “noise” caused by the introduction of all the pattern, color and artwork.

For more info on the design decisions (and product sources): Real Simple

Images: Jonny Valiant/Real Simple