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How to transform an open living-dining space
By: M.Chaves
A case study: how to transform an open living-dining space into an elegant, serene home
Recently, I had the opportunity to advise a client on creating a unified, serene, and elegant environment for her open-plan living-dining space. Her home, built in the late ’60s, had undergone numerous remodels and additions, resulting in an eclectic decor and some design challenges. The goal was to create a cohesive space that met the style and comfort needs of the homeowners—retirees who sought both functionality and charm. Here are some key points we worked on to achieve a result that could serve as inspiration for transforming any space in your home.
1. How to Arrange and Group Artwork for Visual Harmony
One of the initial challenges was organising the artwork, which had been hung arbitrarily and without cohesion. Here are some essential guidelines:
- Height for Hanging: The ideal height for hanging artwork is between 145 cm and 152 cm from the floor, which is the average eye level. If the artwork is above a piece of furniture, leave around 15-20 cm of space between the top of the furniture and the artwork.
- Group Composition: When grouping pieces of different sizes, try to align them along a common top or bottom edge, or arrange them to form an overall rectangular or square shape. Symmetrical arrangements can also give a more orderly look. Using similar frames or a limited colour palette can create visual cohesion.
- Criteria for Grouping: Arrange artwork by theme, style, or dominant colours. For varying styles, matching frames can provide balance. For my client, we chose a selection of pieces that shared tones from the new colour palette, blending harmoniously with the rest of the room.
2. Choosing a Colour Palette for a Calm and Elegant Atmosphere
Colour is crucial in transforming any space. Here, we opted for soft, neutral tones to create a sense of calm and spaciousness without losing warmth.
- Main Colours: We used gentle, neutral tones like soft beige or light grey for the walls, which help soften contrasts and provide a harmonious background.
- Accent Colours: We added subtle earthy tones and muted blue-grey accents for a touch of elegance without visual overload. Accent colours can be introduced through cushions, curtains, or decor items, complementing the space without dominating it.
3. Adapting Style to the Home’s Structure
This 1960s home combines rustic elements with details from various eras, so we aimed for a harmonious style that respects this blend without feeling discordant:
- Textures and Materials: We preserved the dark wood of the main furniture pieces, but softened their impact with lighter textiles and neutral shades, updating the look while keeping the home’s character.
- Lines and Shapes: In a space with mixed styles, opt for clean-lined furniture to balance rustic pieces, providing a lighter, more modern appearance.
4. Suggestions for Updating Furniture and Textures
Some furniture pieces can make a space feel heavy or outdated. Here are a few ideas we used to refresh the atmosphere:
- Updating Upholstery and Fabrics: We replaced dark upholstery with lighter tones and easy-care materials, enhancing both the aesthetics and day-to-day functionality.
- Incorporating Lighter Elements: We introduced cushions, rugs, and curtains in soft, light fabrics to make the room feel cosier while avoiding visual heaviness.
5. What to Consider When Selecting Furniture, Textures, and Colours
If you’re considering a refresh, take these factors into account:
- Comfort and Functionality: Ergonomics are essential, particularly in homes with older residents. Look for accessible furniture and soft, touch-friendly materials.
- Durability: Choose materials that are easy to maintain and long-lasting, ideal for a space used frequently.
- Harmony with the Surroundings: Select colours and materials that complement the flooring or walls. A balance of warm and cool tones can unify the space without overwhelming it.
When it comes to creating a harmonious and functional space, the details make all the difference. Choosing the right colours, furniture, and positioning for decorative elements may seem simple, but it requires a deep understanding of how each component interacts with the environment. Many of the issues we observed in this case—discordant colours, heavy furniture, chaotic arrangement—are common in spaces where decisions were made without an overall vision.
EXTRA BONUS:
Finally, here are five ideas for creating a modern, accessible space:
- Optimise Lighting: Make the most of natural light and enhance it with warm-toned floor and ceiling lamps, avoiding overly cool lighting.
- Incorporate Glass or Metallic Details: Elements in glass or light metals add a contemporary touch and lighten the space visually.
- Avoid Over-Saturation of Colours and Textures: Stick to a limited palette with varied textures, keeping the decor simple and uncluttered.
- Use Mirrors Strategically: Place a mirror on a wall to visually enlarge the space and reflect natural light, helping to create a brighter atmosphere.
- Simplify the Decor: Less is more. Opt for a few well-chosen decorative pieces rather than overfilling the space.
If you’re thinking about renewing or redecorating your home, investing in professional interior design guidance can save you time and avoid future complications. A design professional will not only help you maximise your space’s potential but also offer innovative and customised ideas to achieve the ambiance you’ve always desired. Remember, a well-designed home doesn’t just look good; it lives well too.
Do you think that by taking these elements into account we have created a unified, serene and elegant atmosphere for her open plan living-dining room?
Mauricio C.