Can You Help Us Design Our Living Room?

Wow... that's a tough one. It would be easier for us to help you if we knew what the rest of the room looks like. But just as I see it now, I'd probably want to put a little table-like thing on the left of the fireplace (like the kind that normally go behind a couch). Or, maybe put your TV (depending on the size) over there at an angle. You could also try putting the TV on the other side at an angle.

I love track lighting, but when it's in the center of the room, it's harder to figure out where to put stuff.

There is a sectional on the opposite side of the room. We are not sure if we should get a wall unit or some floating cabinets/shelf. The sofa and the tracking lights will be replaced once we know what we do with the wall, we also will get a bigger TV. ^

Had another thought.. If you built (or bought) a mantle and/or a hearth, that might help you figure out what you want your design to be like. Also, staggering floating shelves would be wonderful on that left wall. I'd probably paint the shelves the accent color you plan on using.

I like the idea of a hearth, never thought about that before. We definitely need a mantle. Do you think a floating cabinet would be too much on both sides ? It is a bit tricky as the fireplace is flash with the wall. Appreciate any ideas.

I never thought about a hearth, I really like the idea. We would definitely have a mantle. Do you think a floating cabinet would look good on both sides? I am afraid it might look to bulky. Any Suggestions?

Is the fireplace gas or wood? Wood, you definitely need a hearth, gas ...not so much. If wood and you use it often, you'll need some sort of screen, as well as fire-resistant rug to protect the floor. I feel a mantle is definitely needed but research for the style that fits your style. Pull the sofa closer to the fireplace, add end tables and lamps, sofa table, pillows, etc. whoever builds the mantle can build and install Shelves/cabinets for you. Think about using dark glass in the floating cabinets so you can use your remotes without opening the doors. I'd put shelves/cabinets on both sides of the fireplace, perhaps adding more length/bulk with the built-ins on the side without the tv. A pivoting wall mount for the tv gives options for angling the tv. Have you thought of putting the tv over the fireplace and when you want it to disappear you move your artwork over it? There's some fancy mirror that is sold for this purpose, but I've also seen a barn door style coverup. They're making the hardware in various styles these days.

I would definitely add a big chinky mantel and perhaps some wood to match on either side of the fireplace. You could then add some floating shelves in the same wood on the left. Can you turn the sectional around so that you are facing the bay window? The window is a nice feature and it appears lost in your picture. A large painting above the fireplace could add a nice pop of color and then use that color in cushions, lamps etc. to tie everything together. Perhaps some drapery on the window would make the room seem warmer. Your wall color is very neutral so have some fun with fabric prints and color.

Try adding a nice floating mantle to your fireplace and decorate with candles of varying heights, or some of your favorite vases in varying heights. You could also add a picture frame molding above the mantel and hang a painting, decorative mirror, large clock or one of your favorite pictures. Another suggestion would be to paint this wall in a different color from the rest of the room. Whatever you choose to do, have a blast. It is so much fun redecorating with the treasures we have.

We went to see a cabinet maker and that is a design they came up with. My husband likes it, I do not. I feel it is too much for the room, on the other hand it gives us some shelving to display some of our art pieces we collected. The TV could also go above the fire place. Any thoughts ?

I think that the problem is that it is grey and the rest of room is in dark warm brown's. It sticks out and not in a good way. Can ou place a mantle around it and paint it a warm color to pick out from carpet?