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Mood Boards

Jane's Beachy-Vegan Mood Board

May 23, 2012
One of my favorite things about doing custom mood boards (besides peeking into other people's homes) is designing spaces in a variety of different styles.  Recently, I was able to design a beachy-vibe living room that almost made me pack my bags and head to the coast. Here's Jane's letter:
 

Julia, 

Yay! I'm feeling hopeful alreadyI love soothing, beachy comfortable feeling with pops of color (like colors of beach glass)....I tell people that if 3 blocks of houses were cleared away, our house would be on the beach. We live in Racine, WI. right off Lake Michigan. There is a white slipcovered IKEA couch in the L shape that I really like. I have two boys (ages 7 and 4) who aren't always the neatest. I also have two cats that have claws. I'd like to stay away from couch material that is really rough since they may be attracted to it and want to scratch. I also want to stay away from any leather/down as we are vegan. No one uses this room. It is just a passing room to get from the den to the front door. I want it to be a place that gets utilized. A place we want to sit and read a book or sit with friends that is comfortable. I am open to anything. We don't have a ton of money so I have to be somewhat thrifty. I like TJ Maxx and IKEA. I buy things and then return them because I am at such a loss in that room and nothing is working.  Thank you!! 

-Jane

Here are a couple photos of her living room that Jane sent along with her e-mail:
And here's what I came up with for the space:

After studying the layout of the room for a long time, I decided to take all the furniture away from the walls--so there would be a walkway on the right side of the room, opposite the fireplace. Since Jane lived so close to the beach--I designed her living room to reflect that. Let's dive in:

1. A soft, greenish, blue, gray would be a serene backdrop for your room. Check out Quiet Moments by Benjamin Moore. Also, paint all of the trim a crisp white.

2. Coral and light turquoise (the general color scheme for the room) are a match made in heaven and this rug would be beautiful in the space.
Area rug found here.

3. The client mentioned she wanted a sectional, but a love seat would be a better size for this room with this layout.  I love this white, slipcovered one for it's size, beachy feel and affordable price. The door to the family room (?) will be behind the couch, although several feet away.
White Couch found here.

4. Two armchairs placed opposite the couch will create a balanced and intimate place for conversation.
Armchairs found here.

5. Toss a light turquoise throw over an armchair to tie the colors together in the pillows on the couch.
Throw found here.

6. I noticed the room didn't have an overhead light, and that floor lamp currently in place doesn't cover much ground. An arc floor lamp is a great and contemporary solution to no overhead lighting. I'd put it next to the arm chair closest to the fireplace.
Arc floor lamp found here (this is the exact lamp we just got for our living room and we love it)

7. Pillows for the couch are where you can really tie everything together. Look for a creamy beige, pops of turquoise, coral, and even splashes of gold.
Beige chenile pillow found here.
Floral turquoise found here.
Coral found here.
Gold and turquoise found here.

8. About that little nook near the front door--if it were me, I'd cover it up. Take that large mirror on the opposite side of the room and hang it right over that hole. Place a small wall shelf like the one pictured and you instantly have an entryway. A teal vase completes the look.
Wall shelf found here.
Teal vase found here.
Inspiration photo found here.

9. For the mantle, I'd go for more of a layered look like this. Take the big, framed picture off the opposite wall and hang it here. I love the other pieces you have on your mantle, but don't be afraid to add a few family photos leaning against your big art.
Inspiration photo found here.

10. Now for the opposite wall, that will now be clear of a couch. I envision a very neat, beach-themed-gallery wall here. Hang the photos in white frames. It can be photos you have taken yourself, or a few that I have gathered up for you for inspiration.
All photo prints found in this Etsy shop.

11. The large plant currently have in the far left corner of your room, think about moving to the corner nearest to the placement of the floor lamp. Clear out the space and walls leading to your family room and put two white, bookshelves on either side of the door. You can even add extenders if you want to and trim it out for a built-in look.
Bookcases found here.

Beachin' right?  Now if only our house wasn't so land-locked.  What's your favorite part?  I am crazy over the throw pillows.
Is there a room in your home begging for some help? Are you stuck in a design rut? Send photos and your dilemma to [email protected] and let's get started. Check out our Mood Boards page for more info.
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  1. That is my house! :) I am diligently working on the new look and have come a long way. I am saving up for an IKEA trip to purchase the loveseat and bookcases. I LOVE the rug. I will send in pics as soon as it is done.

  2. LOVING the coral and turquoise together! So light and airy! I love when you post mood boards--I would love to see the finished products after people have taken your suggestions!

    p.s. I think you mean peeking (not peaking) into other people's homes :) Sorry, grammar stickler over here. I know it's obnoxious.

  3. Oh, and staying at the beach for a week, I NEED a beach room. Or a sunroom. Maybe not a bedroom inspired beach room, but a little retreat :-)

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