Before & After: 3 Identical Sofas, 1 Large Living Room Makeover

Written by

Tara BellucciNews and Culture Director
Tara BellucciNews and Culture Director
Tara is Apartment Therapy's News & Culture Director. When not scrolling through Instagram double-tapping pet pics and astrology memes, you'll find her thrift shopping around Boston, kayaking on the Charles, and trying not to buy more plants.
published May 18, 2015
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(Image credit: Submitted by Jay)

Minneapolis designer Jay Nuhring has another no-shopping makeover for us. This time, his client has a huge living room, three of the same sofa, and a wall of books that looks a bit bland. Jay applied the use-what-you-have motto and created a whole new space within a space!

(Image credit: SpaceCrafting.com )

From Jay:

This project was really easy and really affordable. Nothing new was purchased for this living room makeover. Everything was shopped and sourced from what the homeowner already had in the house.

The first question I asked myself was what do I do with three identical basil green sofas. I thought one would certainly have to go. But I quickly realized that if I put two of the sofas back to back, it would create a separate library area closer to the foyer of the home – expanding the entrance experience.

The book wall appeared tired and forgotten. Through simply editing, rearranging and hanging a few thoughtfully placed pieces of art, the book wall took center stage. Placing a cello in the mix further suggested a library/music space.

I replaced the antique mirror over the mantel with modern artwork and sculpture – giving the historic home more relevance for a modern family.

It took a couple days but the results speak for itself. The house feels revived, updated and more sophisticated. I love when I’m able to connect with spaces on a healing level, giving rooms their dignity back, and creating spaces that support a positive lifestyle.

Thank you Jay!