Before & After: A Family-Friendly Room That Makes a Fantastic First Impression

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(Image credit: Madeline Tolle)

Michelle Gage was hired by her clients to design a living room in their brand new forever home. The space needed to work for family time and make a strong first impression. With a mix of high and low, luscious textures and fun accents, she more than succeeded.

(Image credit: Madeline Tolle)

From Michelle: This was a new house for my client. They moved from a smaller house down the road. We were working with a blank slate.

(Image credit: Madeline Tolle)
(Image credit: Madeline Tolle)

The family was moving into a larger home — their forever home. They were looking for a space where they could spend time together — but it was also a front living room so it needed to look good. It’s the first room you see when walking through the front door.

(Image credit: Madeline Tolle)
(Image credit: Madeline Tolle)

The project came together pretty quickly. We sourced a high/low mix of products. The sofa was from Anthropologie, the ottoman was Article. The family had a great gray rug from their old living room, but it was too small for this space. To troubleshoot this in an affordable way, we added a larger jute underneath. It fit the room better and gave the space a layered look. The pillows were from Home Goods, art from Minted, chairs from West Elm. The client wanted recliners and finding good looking ones is HARD. These are a great shape and match their needed function.

(Image credit: Madeline Tolle)
(Image credit: Madeline Tolle)

I love how bright and open the space is. I love that there’s a great velvet sofa.

(Image credit: Madeline Tolle)

Michelle’s words of wisdom: To bring the look together, shop a range of stores. This will give you a well-curated look. Spend where it’s worth it — on the foundation pieces (furniture) and then include more trendy/affordable accessories. They can be switched out as often as you like. Since the furniture in this space is neutral, this family can update their accents as they see fit!

Thank you, Michelle! You can see more on Michelle’s website Michelle Gage Interiors.