We’ve just reached the 1 year mark at home buyers in a 1940s cape code style brick home. I love Traditional styles, but now with a hodge podge of stuff from 2 apartments this just looks cluttered and more boho. I’m also not sure if we’re using the space to its fullest potential.
I have a long ways to go, but would love some advice on where to start!
by ultimateplanner1014
4 Comments
First thing’s first: lighting, lighting, lighting. Get some lamps with some lower output bulbs and turn off those overhead lights (or replace those bulbs with way lower wattage warm color bulbs). Warming up the space will make an instant positive impact.
Replace that IKEA shelf with something wood grain that fits centered under the mirror. If it’s your place, I’d also paint. The harsh contrast between black and white gives the space a really cold vibe.
Add some plants if you can, and swap out the modern coffee table for a storage ottoman. This will add texture and warmth as well, and help with clutter.
Go on the internet and download pictures of living areas you instinctively are drawn to.
Don’t think too much when downloading.
When you have collected some, analyze for what you are responding to as there are probably going to be common elements.
Traditional covers a whole range of styles – Art Deco? Victorian? Colonial? Arts & Crafts? All of these would be considered traditional to some people.
Most “traditional” interiors are actually a mix of elements and incorporate some classic contemporary elements.
However based on the picture you would need to get rid of everything but the sofa and the rug as all of the other furniture is not “traditional” in any sense and so the totality of the space doesn’t read “traditional”
In general “black” furniture isn’t traditional nor would the little round coffee table.
And of course wall decor could create a feeling of traditional depending on your choices. You don’t have any wall decor except for a nondescript painting leaning on the fireplace mantel and some very non-cohesive objects surrounding it.
Can you move the white units and contents to another room. It’s quite messy (sorry) and looks too big and is kind of blocking access to the door.
Move one of your throws and place nicely over the green chair.
Lamps instead of overhead lights.
A different coffee table.
I would start with those immediately.
Swap out the hairpin legged coffee table for something dark brown, wooden, maybe boxy. Something with detail, more like your TV cabinet. Swap out the white shelving unit for a console table (also dark brown wood) and swap out the mirror for something more ornate. Also tall plant in the corner by the fireplace, and hang the mantle artwork instead of leaning it.
Most importantly you need lamps and much, much warmer lighting overall.