Decorating Dilemmas is a weekly column in which our stylists answer your design questions, so you can tackle your home decorating project with complete confidence.
Dear How to Decorate,
We just moved into a new house, and I really need to update the master bedroom. Any advice you give is much appreciated!
I remember when we bought this bedroom set just after we got married in 1999. It was our first major furniture purchase as a new couple. However, it’s 2015, we need to blast out of the past with a fresh look!
I LOVE the coral & mineral color combination that you have on your website. I have a swatch of the Devlin rug, but I’m not sure if it will work or not. I definitely want an area rug.
All of the furniture and drapes will stay, except for the large chair and ottoman and maybe the mirror. I’d like to replace all of the accessories, lamps, and bedding. The piece above the bed will stay. I’d like to have a reading nook in the corner, and a chandelier over the bed.
I like the traditional style of the furniture and the brass pulls. I’ve noticed that brass is making a comeback! However, I also know that brass can look dated if it’s not done right.
I like the wall color, Benjamin Moore’s Northern Cliffs, but I’m not opposed to painting.
Thank you so much for considering my project!
Paige
Dear Paige,
Your Decorating Dilemma reminds us that it’s hard to find a good balance between wanting a refresh and keeping pieces in which you have invested.
We suggest starting by painting the walls a warm, creamy white such as Benjamin Moore’s Seashell (#926) for a crisp and clean feel.
The Clarence Rug is a beautiful option that has the spa, coral, and taupe tones in a Persian blooming pattern that you were looking for in a rug.
Changing out a few of your pieces in the room will make a great style impact. Create a cozy reading nook with the Julia Chair and Griffin Ottoman both upholstered in Suzanne Kasler’s Mineral Linen to replace your oversized chair in the corner. Place a distressed blue green Louis XVI Bench with luxurious linen at the foot of your bed for an added softness and textural interest.
Consider trading out your matching mirror above your dresser with an Aubrey Leaner turned horizontal. The warm antique silver color is a timeless look that will complement your dresser. We do think your room needs additional softness so consider substituting one of your nightstands with a Terrific Trio. This is a simple way to refresh your space while making a big impact. Update your lamps with Suzanne Kasler Gourd Lamps for a classic, beautiful style.
We suggest that you keep the bedding simple with the Amelie Collection in spa, and remember to have it monogrammed! Layer in additional pops of color with Euros in Malabar Coral and a bolster wrapped in Queens Velvet Coral. No doubt, you will want to rush home to your relaxing retreat!
We would love to see pictures when you are finished!
Happy Decorating,
The Design Team
Do you have a decorating dilemma? Send us your own questions here.
Jan
That is my furniture. Could it be painted successfully?
Furniture Store in Tucson AZ
Wow! Such a great pictures of bedroom set. Thanks for sharing these with us.
Paula
I would love to see the after pics and do you plan on putting the area rug over the present carpet?
Caroline @ How to Decorate
Hi Paula,
We would love to see ‘after’ photos as well. This room has so much potential. And yes, I believe the suggestion was to layer the rug over the carpet. Paige specifically mentioned in her letter to us that she wanted an area rug for the room!
Thanks for your comment,
The How to Decorate Team
Barbara Ingersoll
Very interesting project! When will the “after” pics be available?