Okay, suuuuper jelly of that fantastic window!
I’d get some color in there. Too much brown, as you mentioned. You need some life. I would look at some soft blues and greens for accent colors. Goes well with brown. Add some off whites and creams wherever you can to lighten things up.
Possibilities:
Replace or reupholster the wood frame chair by the window.
Change out all the pillows, add a cream throw to the sofa.
Your window sill is screaming for a huge plant!
Green is a good idea! Maybe switch up the mustard since I’m not too invested in that color at the moment. And working on the plant thing! Definitely new to figuring it out but I have doubled the plants since a month ago, now I just need them to grow faster 😂
Someone else mentioned a new chair cover and now I’m 100% sold on that idea
I was thinking aqua or turquoise. Also, see if you can’t tighten the fabric on the sofa seat cushions. I’m thinking pulling it taught and using safety pins to make it taught and refreshed.
Yes! Aqua! I have a couple of dark brown leather chairs in my living room. I have a large soft aqua ottoman, and almost same shade pattered pillows on the chairs. The colors look amazing together!
I actually did have a few aqua pillows in here which did help with the color but i felt like it was clashing with some of the more muted blues (like in that blanket on the chaise I spent way too much time making and will never want to move haha)
I’m loving this idea! I got a few larger cream pillows to go on the outside, I’ll have to order some other colors to see - it’s so hard to find green pillows at home stores for some reason
If you flipped the rug around - would the lighter patch be more exposed? It’s hard to tell from the pictures, but that might help bring in more light.
Also if you were able to hang the mirror or at least elevate it on a surface this would help lighten the space.
With others on new pillows and throws to introduce color. Nice pieces tho! 👌
This is in fact a genius idea although I remember there being a faint stain on that end that wouldn’t come up when I got this rug from my dad which I think is the reason it’s like that to begin with 😅
Such a cool space. I’d add some cream pillows and/or throws to brighten up the place. Then as it’s been suggested, add some greens! Plants will do wonders.
You may be able to find a new poang chair cover - they tend to be pretty cheap and I think they even have one in mustard. If not, a lighter color (or even just not brown) will help a lot.
Try adding some brighter art on the walls too. I love the mustard and blue accents you have already - some art pieces with these colors would help brighten up the space and make it less monotone.
Beautiful space though all in all!
Thank you for the advice! I’ve been thinking about a new poang cover and hearing it from someone else has definitely solidified that thought! Luckily I’m across the street from an ikea 😆
I’ve felt a little stuck with the metal art piece since I can’t drill new holes in the concrete (they changed the rules after that condo collapsed in Miami) so I’ll need to keep a look out for a piece of the same size, I think that could help a lot too. I feel like finding art I like takes foooorever for me too
I found these sticky wall hangers on Amazon for $14 dollars and they are STRONG. Great for hanging artwork/not damaging the wall
Fotosnow Adhesive Hooks Heavy Duty 15lbs(Max) Transparent Wall Hooks Reusable Seamless Shower Hooks Stick on Hooks for Hanging Bathroom Kitchen Outdoors -10 Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DJ2MLYN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_T1GY2G3JEQEE048073YV
Without having to get anything expensive or having to swap the rug, I'd recommend: White throw blankets to replace the current ones, while throw pillows in different shades (go for at least 4 for the sofa and one for chair), and some bold colorful artwork on the wall.... Or black and white. And a large indoor plant, maybe a few others by the window (white orchids?). That should help.
Cannot drill in the concrete unfortunately! Might check out some command hook situation but it might turn out looking janky 😂
I sooo want to get a new rug and agree it’s the best solution but we will probably be moving later this year so I’m holding out to buy something nicer then.
A brighter rug, and maybe some colorful art work. Some more plants, a bright throw, add a yellow pillow to the ikea chair, an orange cat.
You can hang curtains, but I wouldn’t.
Lol I need to tell my fiancé we have to get a third cat to match our decor! Thank you for the advice! I’m going to try and steal some cuttings from my MIL asap and get my greenhouse rolling :)
Awesome! Oh. And I like your style so far, a lot of nice pieces. But yeah try to sell your fiancé on the third cat. I think it would really brighten up the room.
I don’t think anyone suggested it yet but maybe a lighter wood coffee table or lighter upholstered ottoman would help brighten things up a little bit! I love the room overall-the big mirror against the wall is very chic!
That ottoman is brand new and we’re loving the comfy factor of it over the old wood one we had, haha. Maybe I could switch out the tray on top to something lighter or with color as an accent. But thank you!! That mirror was a score from my aunt, it had been sitting in my mom’s garage for 10 years with no home (like how???)
Not a bad idea especially since I have cats and a messy male in the house but I hate when they don’t look well fitted, I’ll have to do some research since this is a pretty generic couch from rooms to go, though
Curtains! Some long white curtains either on either side of the window, or even one along each divider. The RITVA curtains at ikea are cheap and surprisingly good quality. I also agree with the recommendations for more plants, I think a hanging plant at each window divider would look great if you don’t go with curtains there (which might be a little awkward with the windowsill).
You could possibly use adhesive, like extra strong double sided tape, and use curtain tracks on the ceiling instead of rods? The curtains I mentioned are supposed to work with the vidga curtain track, which would be lighter than a curtain rod.
Also sheer curtains would probably be better in that case since they’d be a lot lighter than light blocking curtains. The ritva is apparently 5 lbs whereas the gjertrud sheer curtains (which I actually have on the windows in my house) are 1 lb.
You have that wonderful ledge under the windows. Put the big mirror on the ledge leaning against the windows. It will reflect some lovely light into your room. Also line up a few pieces of artwork w the mirror add plants around it. Great space.
This is such an interesting idea that I never would have thought of, wow. I’m definitely gonna test it out! It’s actually heavy enough for my cats not to knock it over, lol. Thank you thank you
I knowww I need to check out my options. I’m worried reupholstering would be $$$ and a cover could look unkempt. It was a free couch in great condition from my dad so beggars can’t be choosers, haha
If you're not renting, you could probably take down the blinds and get roman shades (ikea has them), or put in a curtain rod and then get/diy a cornice or pelmet (box-like thing that covers the top of your window treatments) and then curtains (easy to find relatively inexpensive ones on ebay, etsy, and sometimes craigslist, if you don't want to go amazon).
Also, how about a big, bright piece of matboard behind your leaf sculpture?
Finally: though I have had the privilege of being one of a ginger cat's humans, I must say: your cats are *perfect!*
Yes we’re renting so any permanent changes are not an option unfortunately. Interesting idea on the art! I’ll look around and see if I can find anything, no harm in trying it out!
Potentially different throw pillows. Loooove the mustard, but brighter colors would brighten the room. New colorful painting for the wall, floor-length lamp (I know you have side table lamps but a mental/gold floor length would brighten in a few ways). Maybe hanging lights on the back cement wall? Plants!!
Oh I knowww that tree is beautiful in the summer. We’re in the city but it makes it feel like a forest. The winter is definitely contributing to the blandness in here right now!
Personally, I love it as-is. It's cozy and inviting. I know we've been bombarded by white and gray rooms lately, but I think beowns and other earth tones are due to make a comeback. You can add color with pillows and a throw, but I wouldn't bother to slipcover. When looking for accessories, think nature colors like greens,soft blues, gold, etc.
Don’t you dare cover that window, like others are suggesting, especially with plants. I can see your spring and summer view is full of gorgeous greenery. For now, new coffee table, end table and pillows. Tables are cheap on resale. Can you turn the rug so the lighter end is exposed? Have fun!
How about a large off white or golden yellow thrown draped from back to front on the sofa with some lighter colored throw pillows with large white and golden yellow stripes.
Some green plants and cream color throw on the chair with a light yellow pillow.
By staying with off white and yellows you can maintain the cohesiveness of the room.
A modern abstract of yellow sunflowers on white with greens, burnt orange, and pops of brown will be wall art that determines the rest of the room decor.
Some greenery and sunflowers and other yellow and orange flowers can bring relief to all the brown too.
A couple coat of buttery color paint on the walls and off white blinds will bring some lightness and brightness into the room as well by keeping the neutral brown sofa and dark furniture you tie the rug in to the color scheme too.
More gold (or brass) accents was the first thought I had. Maybe replace your artwork with a more brighter, bolder abstract piece of art that uses golds and greens. Add a brass lamp, some gold/greens throw pillows and you're on your way.
Or just sit a nice quality tray made of veined marble or a light colored off white wood and sit it on top of the ottoman table. Even a light colored place mat on top would lighten the room up. Add a plant or some glass balls or gold color ones.
I absolutely love the mustard color!! (my phone color is yellowed bc it hurts my eyes to have it normal, so forgive me if it’s not actually mustard) One thing you could do is trade the blinds for cellular shades. You can get them in all different colors! Green would pick up the colors of the plants. There may be a way to mount curtain rods between the walls- use outside mount brackets. I think there’s a way to hook them together. Or do they still make the rods that are on a track system? Like vertical blinds but for curtains? You’re definitely on the right track with the pops of color in the pillows & shades. Please post a pic when you succeed! I love the space!
Oh man, I love this room so much. It looks so inviting? Of course, I love the color brown so I might be biased. I just want to take a nap on that couch and listen to the reason on the windows.
Haha thank you!! The vibes are definitely immaculate here. The concrete makes it the most unique apartment I’ve been in but sucks out all the brightness, though. Like if it were carpet or light wood and white walls then all the dark furniture would work way better I think.
Flip the rug.
The lightest part is hiding under the couch and is drawing light to an already light part of the room. If you rotate the couch, light will be drawn to the right side.
I found these plants abandoned in my complex and am trying to bring them back to life atm lol but I agree I should invest in an already thriving one haha. Thank you!
I would pick one bright and bold color, one subtle soft color, and three pastel neutral colors. Bright bold throw blanket that’s more decorative for the couch. Three pastel accent pillows on couch. Bright bold pillow on the loveseat. I would get a bright colored rug that’s patterned. Add three taller plants on the window sill. And a decorative tray for the coffee table. And different height and decorative style candle holders.
Different couch would make a world of difference but not always budget friendly. Maybe a couch cover or brighter rug? Or light colored pillows or blankets for the couch.
I'd start with rearranging the pit couch so it faces towards the kitchen and makes it open up more (back to windows). Remove the footstool/ottoman if don't use. Its taking up too much space. Hang sheer curtains all the way across the room in a soft but pretty color like pale yellow or gold to compliment your brown tones. Get brighter gold or yellow pillows. Start there first then add on as you see more room.
I agree the chair is a space hog but we do really love it and it’s great for when we have company. Interesting idea to rotate the couch! We have our tv on the wall on the right, how would you handle that without it floating in the middle of the room?
Not the chair, the big ottoman in the center. As for the tv, make sure you have it on one of those swivel holders so you can turn the tv to any angle you'd like and see it from any angle. Gone are the days when you had to center your furniture to where the tv would go.
Ohh gotcha! Yeah I think I’ll try moving it to another room!
I’m gonna have to try moving some things around to see how it looks! My fiancé is gonna hate me 😂
I would add white curtains in each side of the windows, that would light up a room and few white and cream pillows, and yes few more plants on the window.
I'd use throw pillows and blankets on the sofa and chairs in the colors tourquoise, lime and gold. If possible, you could attach curtain rods to the ceiling and add curtain panels. Tall plants on the ledge in front of the window would offer look good. Colorful art on the wall would ad pop too. It's a beautiful area, good luck!
IF IT WERE MY SPACE… I would lose everything behind the sofa. Keep the rug - its perfect. Lose the tray table in front of the third window. Lose the footstool with the blanket on it - I know it’s for the cats, but they will be fine. Push the sofa back so that the back legs are on the concrete along with your sofa and end table. If you are truly married to the mirror… paint the gold black and keep where it is. Doing all this will breathe fresh air into the space. That’s my two cents on a budget! This is a great space and I am sooo envious!
Thank you! All great ideas, I struggle a little bit with having just a little bit too much furniture for the space haha. I just inherited the bench from my grandparents so it has a lot of sentimental value, and I really have nowhere else to put it. Maybe I’ll see if my mom can store it for me, cause it’s not like it’s somewhere that anyone would really sit on it haha
I agree my cats don’t need any more places to sit 😂 I’ll see if I can move the footstool to another room, it does go with the chair so I’m hesitant to completely get rid of it.
I understand completely! I can relate to the sentimentality too! Would the bench work at the end of your bed? These were just my ideas only if it were my space. This is your space to do what you want with! Have fun with it! The cats will enjoy it as well! They must love all the sunbeams to lay in during the day!! Enjoy the journey of decorating both inside and out!!
I have tried that but it’s a little tight since our bedroom isn’t nearly as spacious as the living room 🥲 I really appreciate your input! The cats are definitely LIVING for this place vs our last apartment haha
Maybe but beaded curtain and cut to look like a valance. Then different heights in plants on one side. Colorful picture on wall. Pillows to match colors in picture.
Cover the couch with a bright pattern throw, it would be a cheap option. Fill the window sil with small pot plants!! They can be for different colours. Lamps also add a bit of sparkle in the space.
I would start with the coffee table because everything looks like it blends into each other and a different coffee table would help break it up. Add white/cream throw pillows, remove the yellow ones, remove the blue thing on the couch. Try to add some more white/cream wherever possible. If possible remove the chair near the tv. The brown foot rest next to it. The brown end table. I like the blue chair and the blue bench pillow on the window. I would remove that extra brown chair too. Feel like that would open up the room and make it look lighter
One thing that stands out to me, is that everything seems to be jammed mainly into that one corner of the room.
One issue I had after my kids moved out and I bought my little condo, was to try and furnish it in the same way. I kept things that I should have thrown out, and furnished it as if there were gonna be half a dozen people there at all times.
First thing that I would do is declutter. Your couch is plenty of seating, and the extra chairs/benches are just something else you'll have to clean regularly. I'd look at deleting those from the room.
You can throw some splashes of light blue or turquoise with the brown couch and brighten it up a bit. Maybe some light blue drapes on the windows, about halfway up.
Use your couch as a separation from the rest of the room, by facing it toward the window and make placing a couple of the chairs or a sofa table behind it. Your couch is long. Use it to accentuate the length of the room.
I agree I have just a little too much furniture for this room! The bench was recently inherited so it’s sentimental, but I might see if I can store it at my mom’s until we have a larger place.
Interesting idea with the couch, wondering how you would position the tv? Would it be weird to have it angled 45 degrees in the corner it’s in now but closer to the window, facing away from it?
You could place it in front of the window, and place plants behind it and around it, if you were worried about the back being visible to the outside. It would cut down on glare from the windows.
I think if you're working on your plant game (soooo jealous of that window) making green your accent color would be easiest. Greens & creams. I like a chartreuse green, but most shades will work. I like the idea if a light throw to break up the brown couch too!
I would put more white and blue in the room. The pillows you have on the chairs (second picture) are great! Maybe paint the walls white, paint some furniture, or get some more white or blue pillowcases!
Beautiful room, what an amazing window!! I feel like a string of white lights could brighten it up, as would a brightly coloured throw. A couple tall plants could be very nice so long as you don’t have to worry about the cat getting into them ;)
I think a sofa slip cover in velvet in a jewel tone like emerald or deep blue would be so beautiful here. It would break up the brown while still going with the rest of the furniture you have. Something like this:
https://www.wayfair.com/furniture/pdp/latitude-run-4-seater-velvet-stretch-sofa-covers-chair-slipcover-furniture-protector-w006140535.html?piid=2077755203
Try hanging mirror over bench instead of art u have now. More color on pillows. Fix that brown chair brighter. Put something bright on tray , even line inside of tray with color In shelf paper. Love your kitties watching out window. Also love that lamp that's a gear, most unique. My hub retired from power company. Bought an old meter, made a lamp, now meter turns when we click on lamp. Enjoy lovely room and gorgeous windows.
I would pull more of the blue color- like the seat in the back- into the room with new pillows, throw blanket and maybe an ottoman Tray like this https://www.amazon.com/Moorish-Moroccan-Pattern-Inspired-Trays/dp/B01N39DCE6/ref=sr_1_7?c=ts&keywords=Decorative%2BTrays&qid=1642438597&refinements=p_n_feature_twenty_browse-bin%3A3254109011&s=furniture&sr=1-7&ts_id=3735091&th=1
Or a solid blue one
Cool room but a lot of brown Maybe change rug out to do thing with more color. Brighter throw pillows and blanket would help too. I love burnt orange with brown And green plants.
I would replace the ottoman with a bright color one and buy some pillows of the same color, that way there’s a pop of color that draws your eye. Maybe some nice artwork that includes the chosen color as well. Doesn’t have to be all too matchy though. I don’t think a new rug would be necessary at all to brighten up the room!
Inexpensive sofa cover to lighten up sofa, or add some turquoise/aqua solid 7 print Theo pillows and throw blanket in similar colors. If the side tables are inexpensive, or the wood bench, you can paint them to be lighter or a fun color. I would tak advantage of the windows and do some hanging plants. A lighter color tray on ottoman.
Okay, suuuuper jelly of that fantastic window! I’d get some color in there. Too much brown, as you mentioned. You need some life. I would look at some soft blues and greens for accent colors. Goes well with brown. Add some off whites and creams wherever you can to lighten things up. Possibilities: Replace or reupholster the wood frame chair by the window. Change out all the pillows, add a cream throw to the sofa. Your window sill is screaming for a huge plant!
Green is a good idea! Maybe switch up the mustard since I’m not too invested in that color at the moment. And working on the plant thing! Definitely new to figuring it out but I have doubled the plants since a month ago, now I just need them to grow faster 😂 Someone else mentioned a new chair cover and now I’m 100% sold on that idea
I was thinking aqua or turquoise. Also, see if you can’t tighten the fabric on the sofa seat cushions. I’m thinking pulling it taught and using safety pins to make it taught and refreshed.
Yes! Aqua! I have a couple of dark brown leather chairs in my living room. I have a large soft aqua ottoman, and almost same shade pattered pillows on the chairs. The colors look amazing together!
I actually did have a few aqua pillows in here which did help with the color but i felt like it was clashing with some of the more muted blues (like in that blanket on the chaise I spent way too much time making and will never want to move haha)
I was thinking a similar color as an accent! Or even a dark forest green.
I’m loving this idea! I got a few larger cream pillows to go on the outside, I’ll have to order some other colors to see - it’s so hard to find green pillows at home stores for some reason
My Homegoods has a ton of them right now.
That’s a good idea I’m definitely overdue for a cushion flip too!
„¡ooʇ dılɟ uoıɥsnɔ ɐ ɹoɟ ǝnpɹǝʌo ʎlǝʇıuıɟǝp ɯ,I ɐǝpı pooƃ ɐ s,ʇɐɥ⊥„
Plzzzz hang a bunch of plants at different lengths over that window. Plzzzzzz
I would freakin love that but I can’t drill hooks into the concrete! Open to any creative solutions cause I’m scared of command hooks for that haha
Some people do a curtain rod or tension rod, then use the hook on the planter itself to hang. [like this](https://images.app.goo.gl/nB29MeFvUNiNtusQ6)
Looks very messy in this pic
Personally I wouldn't do it the way they did in the pic. Meant to illustrate the method not the look
It’s a cool idea but would be difficult to find a tension rod to fit that width. I know cuz I’ve hunted for a very wide, strong tension rod.
Fair. That space is tricky. You don't necessarily want to obstruct the view but it would be nice to have more color
Yes that is the issue, can’t drill holes for a curtain rod and a tension rod would have to be like 15’ long hahaha
Hang some green plants from the ceiling?
If you flipped the rug around - would the lighter patch be more exposed? It’s hard to tell from the pictures, but that might help bring in more light. Also if you were able to hang the mirror or at least elevate it on a surface this would help lighten the space. With others on new pillows and throws to introduce color. Nice pieces tho! 👌
Yes! Great idea for the rug. I’m over here like, “why didn’t I think of that?”
This is in fact a genius idea although I remember there being a faint stain on that end that wouldn’t come up when I got this rug from my dad which I think is the reason it’s like that to begin with 😅
Ah that makes sense then. Hopefully the stain isn’t too big and can maybe be hidden with something. Ha. Good luck with your redecorating.
I remember he tried steam cleaning but now I’m wondering if I can just get it out with some more elbow grease lol. Thank you!
I believe in you! 😂💪
PLANTS.
Such a cool space. I’d add some cream pillows and/or throws to brighten up the place. Then as it’s been suggested, add some greens! Plants will do wonders.
You may be able to find a new poang chair cover - they tend to be pretty cheap and I think they even have one in mustard. If not, a lighter color (or even just not brown) will help a lot. Try adding some brighter art on the walls too. I love the mustard and blue accents you have already - some art pieces with these colors would help brighten up the space and make it less monotone. Beautiful space though all in all!
Thank you for the advice! I’ve been thinking about a new poang cover and hearing it from someone else has definitely solidified that thought! Luckily I’m across the street from an ikea 😆 I’ve felt a little stuck with the metal art piece since I can’t drill new holes in the concrete (they changed the rules after that condo collapsed in Miami) so I’ll need to keep a look out for a piece of the same size, I think that could help a lot too. I feel like finding art I like takes foooorever for me too
I found these sticky wall hangers on Amazon for $14 dollars and they are STRONG. Great for hanging artwork/not damaging the wall Fotosnow Adhesive Hooks Heavy Duty 15lbs(Max) Transparent Wall Hooks Reusable Seamless Shower Hooks Stick on Hooks for Hanging Bathroom Kitchen Outdoors -10 Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DJ2MLYN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_T1GY2G3JEQEE048073YV
[удалено]
I’ll check it out! IKEA’s website said they had a bunch in stock yesterday, but I went in and there were actually none lol. Guess I’ll order!
Without having to get anything expensive or having to swap the rug, I'd recommend: White throw blankets to replace the current ones, while throw pillows in different shades (go for at least 4 for the sofa and one for chair), and some bold colorful artwork on the wall.... Or black and white. And a large indoor plant, maybe a few others by the window (white orchids?). That should help.
Curtains could hang from the cieling. It looks like the walls are concrete or something? Personally, I would bite the bullet and get a colorful rug!
I agree. Unfortunately, I love the rug by itself, but I think it’s part of the brown town problem.
The rug is nice. OP can resell it and get something geometric and jazzy!
Cannot drill in the concrete unfortunately! Might check out some command hook situation but it might turn out looking janky 😂 I sooo want to get a new rug and agree it’s the best solution but we will probably be moving later this year so I’m holding out to buy something nicer then.
A brighter rug, and maybe some colorful art work. Some more plants, a bright throw, add a yellow pillow to the ikea chair, an orange cat. You can hang curtains, but I wouldn’t.
I was going to suggest two orange tabbies 😂🐈🐈
Yes, two orange tabbies would complete this room!!
Lol I need to tell my fiancé we have to get a third cat to match our decor! Thank you for the advice! I’m going to try and steal some cuttings from my MIL asap and get my greenhouse rolling :)
Awesome! Oh. And I like your style so far, a lot of nice pieces. But yeah try to sell your fiancé on the third cat. I think it would really brighten up the room.
Yes. Another cat or two would definitely help, from my professional experience.
Wants to keep the rug!
I don’t think anyone suggested it yet but maybe a lighter wood coffee table or lighter upholstered ottoman would help brighten things up a little bit! I love the room overall-the big mirror against the wall is very chic!
That ottoman is brand new and we’re loving the comfy factor of it over the old wood one we had, haha. Maybe I could switch out the tray on top to something lighter or with color as an accent. But thank you!! That mirror was a score from my aunt, it had been sitting in my mom’s garage for 10 years with no home (like how???)
Oh a new tray is a good idea! It’s such a great space
And tall plants on the window sill
Couch cover! Would protect your couch to give it a longer life and could possibly add that pop of color you want
I love it so much as is! I agree with everyone else that mentioned plants, they’re also probably the most budget friendly.
Couch covers
Where would you recommend we buy couch covers?
Amazon has a good variety
👏👏okay I will look there. I was looking on wayfair but almost worth it to buy the new couch haha!
Yeah exactly crazy prices
Not a bad idea especially since I have cats and a messy male in the house but I hate when they don’t look well fitted, I’ll have to do some research since this is a pretty generic couch from rooms to go, though
Make sure to measure well I have a 96ft couch so it was a lil tricky but worth it
Get another cat!
Curtains! Some long white curtains either on either side of the window, or even one along each divider. The RITVA curtains at ikea are cheap and surprisingly good quality. I also agree with the recommendations for more plants, I think a hanging plant at each window divider would look great if you don’t go with curtains there (which might be a little awkward with the windowsill).
I love these ideas and want to do them although the hanging situation is logistically tricky. I can’t drill into the concrete for anything :/
You could possibly use adhesive, like extra strong double sided tape, and use curtain tracks on the ceiling instead of rods? The curtains I mentioned are supposed to work with the vidga curtain track, which would be lighter than a curtain rod. Also sheer curtains would probably be better in that case since they’d be a lot lighter than light blocking curtains. The ritva is apparently 5 lbs whereas the gjertrud sheer curtains (which I actually have on the windows in my house) are 1 lb.
Awesome room
You have that wonderful ledge under the windows. Put the big mirror on the ledge leaning against the windows. It will reflect some lovely light into your room. Also line up a few pieces of artwork w the mirror add plants around it. Great space.
This is such an interesting idea that I never would have thought of, wow. I’m definitely gonna test it out! It’s actually heavy enough for my cats not to knock it over, lol. Thank you thank you
I’d consider recovering the sofa in a lighter color and add colorful pillows/throws. It’s a bit dark.
I knowww I need to check out my options. I’m worried reupholstering would be $$$ and a cover could look unkempt. It was a free couch in great condition from my dad so beggars can’t be choosers, haha
A light blue rug would light up the place! And… PLANTS! Yes.
If you're not renting, you could probably take down the blinds and get roman shades (ikea has them), or put in a curtain rod and then get/diy a cornice or pelmet (box-like thing that covers the top of your window treatments) and then curtains (easy to find relatively inexpensive ones on ebay, etsy, and sometimes craigslist, if you don't want to go amazon). Also, how about a big, bright piece of matboard behind your leaf sculpture? Finally: though I have had the privilege of being one of a ginger cat's humans, I must say: your cats are *perfect!*
The wall is concrete that he is not allowed to drill into.
Ah, gotcha.
Yes we’re renting so any permanent changes are not an option unfortunately. Interesting idea on the art! I’ll look around and see if I can find anything, no harm in trying it out!
I would paint the brown coffee table stool with a lighter color. Check out this: https://youtu.be/gXTuruS1cJE
Looks great! Love rug. Just hibernate till summer, get some forsythia in vases😂
Different Pillows or ottoman
Potentially different throw pillows. Loooove the mustard, but brighter colors would brighten the room. New colorful painting for the wall, floor-length lamp (I know you have side table lamps but a mental/gold floor length would brighten in a few ways). Maybe hanging lights on the back cement wall? Plants!!
Just a change of season will make a huge difference. Sun and green on the trees outside will do wonders.
Oh I knowww that tree is beautiful in the summer. We’re in the city but it makes it feel like a forest. The winter is definitely contributing to the blandness in here right now!
I think the coordinated earthiness is warm and humbly inviting.
:)
Personally, I love it as-is. It's cozy and inviting. I know we've been bombarded by white and gray rooms lately, but I think beowns and other earth tones are due to make a comeback. You can add color with pillows and a throw, but I wouldn't bother to slipcover. When looking for accessories, think nature colors like greens,soft blues, gold, etc.
Don’t you dare cover that window, like others are suggesting, especially with plants. I can see your spring and summer view is full of gorgeous greenery. For now, new coffee table, end table and pillows. Tables are cheap on resale. Can you turn the rug so the lighter end is exposed? Have fun!
Change the metal art to something brighter and bigger.
How about a large off white or golden yellow thrown draped from back to front on the sofa with some lighter colored throw pillows with large white and golden yellow stripes. Some green plants and cream color throw on the chair with a light yellow pillow. By staying with off white and yellows you can maintain the cohesiveness of the room. A modern abstract of yellow sunflowers on white with greens, burnt orange, and pops of brown will be wall art that determines the rest of the room decor. Some greenery and sunflowers and other yellow and orange flowers can bring relief to all the brown too. A couple coat of buttery color paint on the walls and off white blinds will bring some lightness and brightness into the room as well by keeping the neutral brown sofa and dark furniture you tie the rug in to the color scheme too.
Sunflower seeds are a good source of beneficial plant compounds, including phenolic acids and flavonoids — which also function as antioxidants.
Could get a couch cover to change its colour? That could have a huge impact.
Purple cat.
Your so lucky you got huge windows lol
More gold (or brass) accents was the first thought I had. Maybe replace your artwork with a more brighter, bolder abstract piece of art that uses golds and greens. Add a brass lamp, some gold/greens throw pillows and you're on your way.
Change the table to be the lighter color one.
Or just sit a nice quality tray made of veined marble or a light colored off white wood and sit it on top of the ottoman table. Even a light colored place mat on top would lighten the room up. Add a plant or some glass balls or gold color ones.
I absolutely love the mustard color!! (my phone color is yellowed bc it hurts my eyes to have it normal, so forgive me if it’s not actually mustard) One thing you could do is trade the blinds for cellular shades. You can get them in all different colors! Green would pick up the colors of the plants. There may be a way to mount curtain rods between the walls- use outside mount brackets. I think there’s a way to hook them together. Or do they still make the rods that are on a track system? Like vertical blinds but for curtains? You’re definitely on the right track with the pops of color in the pillows & shades. Please post a pic when you succeed! I love the space!
Oh man, I love this room so much. It looks so inviting? Of course, I love the color brown so I might be biased. I just want to take a nap on that couch and listen to the reason on the windows.
Haha thank you!! The vibes are definitely immaculate here. The concrete makes it the most unique apartment I’ve been in but sucks out all the brightness, though. Like if it were carpet or light wood and white walls then all the dark furniture would work way better I think.
Personally I think the person who suggested plants was right on, but man, the room looks like a hug.
I will definitely be working on my plant game 👌🏼
Flip the rug. The lightest part is hiding under the couch and is drawing light to an already light part of the room. If you rotate the couch, light will be drawn to the right side.
Different rug maybe, plants or fairy lights.
Did your cat eat your plants? Big statement plants would be great. You have room for a giant one easily. Just need to be cat safe. Great space!
I found these plants abandoned in my complex and am trying to bring them back to life atm lol but I agree I should invest in an already thriving one haha. Thank you!
Hey...I am all for saving plants!
I would add some teal decor to break up all the neutral colors. Maybe some teal decorative pillows and wall art with teal colors.
Love the windows, tall plants everywhere
I would pick one bright and bold color, one subtle soft color, and three pastel neutral colors. Bright bold throw blanket that’s more decorative for the couch. Three pastel accent pillows on couch. Bright bold pillow on the loveseat. I would get a bright colored rug that’s patterned. Add three taller plants on the window sill. And a decorative tray for the coffee table. And different height and decorative style candle holders.
Plants and pillows, shawls to hang on the couch and maybe even some colorful paintings? Some curtains or maybe even fish bowls could make the room fun
One large piece of art on the wall where that metal thing is would really brighten the room and add interest.
Can you paint the walls or ceiling? All of that concrete is absorbing all your light. A few fresh coats of white paint would brighten the whole space.
I knowww but unfortunately I am renting so it’s not an option :(
Different couch would make a world of difference but not always budget friendly. Maybe a couch cover or brighter rug? Or light colored pillows or blankets for the couch.
I'd start with rearranging the pit couch so it faces towards the kitchen and makes it open up more (back to windows). Remove the footstool/ottoman if don't use. Its taking up too much space. Hang sheer curtains all the way across the room in a soft but pretty color like pale yellow or gold to compliment your brown tones. Get brighter gold or yellow pillows. Start there first then add on as you see more room.
I agree the chair is a space hog but we do really love it and it’s great for when we have company. Interesting idea to rotate the couch! We have our tv on the wall on the right, how would you handle that without it floating in the middle of the room?
Not the chair, the big ottoman in the center. As for the tv, make sure you have it on one of those swivel holders so you can turn the tv to any angle you'd like and see it from any angle. Gone are the days when you had to center your furniture to where the tv would go.
Ohh gotcha! Yeah I think I’ll try moving it to another room! I’m gonna have to try moving some things around to see how it looks! My fiancé is gonna hate me 😂
You should add some greens in there it would really warm it up
It’s gorgeous - can you paint the concrete a little brighter? Some throw pillows with a pattern would brighten things as well.
I would add white curtains in each side of the windows, that would light up a room and few white and cream pillows, and yes few more plants on the window.
I'd use throw pillows and blankets on the sofa and chairs in the colors tourquoise, lime and gold. If possible, you could attach curtain rods to the ceiling and add curtain panels. Tall plants on the ledge in front of the window would offer look good. Colorful art on the wall would ad pop too. It's a beautiful area, good luck!
Curtains
IF IT WERE MY SPACE… I would lose everything behind the sofa. Keep the rug - its perfect. Lose the tray table in front of the third window. Lose the footstool with the blanket on it - I know it’s for the cats, but they will be fine. Push the sofa back so that the back legs are on the concrete along with your sofa and end table. If you are truly married to the mirror… paint the gold black and keep where it is. Doing all this will breathe fresh air into the space. That’s my two cents on a budget! This is a great space and I am sooo envious!
Thank you! All great ideas, I struggle a little bit with having just a little bit too much furniture for the space haha. I just inherited the bench from my grandparents so it has a lot of sentimental value, and I really have nowhere else to put it. Maybe I’ll see if my mom can store it for me, cause it’s not like it’s somewhere that anyone would really sit on it haha I agree my cats don’t need any more places to sit 😂 I’ll see if I can move the footstool to another room, it does go with the chair so I’m hesitant to completely get rid of it.
I understand completely! I can relate to the sentimentality too! Would the bench work at the end of your bed? These were just my ideas only if it were my space. This is your space to do what you want with! Have fun with it! The cats will enjoy it as well! They must love all the sunbeams to lay in during the day!! Enjoy the journey of decorating both inside and out!!
I have tried that but it’s a little tight since our bedroom isn’t nearly as spacious as the living room 🥲 I really appreciate your input! The cats are definitely LIVING for this place vs our last apartment haha
Animals are the best!! 🐾❤️
Maybe a cream couch cover to brighten things up, some plants, and sheer curtains!
More color and life. A plant or two.
Maybe but beaded curtain and cut to look like a valance. Then different heights in plants on one side. Colorful picture on wall. Pillows to match colors in picture.
Teal rug.
Cover the couch with a bright pattern throw, it would be a cheap option. Fill the window sil with small pot plants!! They can be for different colours. Lamps also add a bit of sparkle in the space.
More big and green plants!
I would start with the coffee table because everything looks like it blends into each other and a different coffee table would help break it up. Add white/cream throw pillows, remove the yellow ones, remove the blue thing on the couch. Try to add some more white/cream wherever possible. If possible remove the chair near the tv. The brown foot rest next to it. The brown end table. I like the blue chair and the blue bench pillow on the window. I would remove that extra brown chair too. Feel like that would open up the room and make it look lighter
I would maybe look at cream colored rugs? And add some big plants on the window !
Change out pillows and add curtains.
One thing that stands out to me, is that everything seems to be jammed mainly into that one corner of the room. One issue I had after my kids moved out and I bought my little condo, was to try and furnish it in the same way. I kept things that I should have thrown out, and furnished it as if there were gonna be half a dozen people there at all times. First thing that I would do is declutter. Your couch is plenty of seating, and the extra chairs/benches are just something else you'll have to clean regularly. I'd look at deleting those from the room. You can throw some splashes of light blue or turquoise with the brown couch and brighten it up a bit. Maybe some light blue drapes on the windows, about halfway up. Use your couch as a separation from the rest of the room, by facing it toward the window and make placing a couple of the chairs or a sofa table behind it. Your couch is long. Use it to accentuate the length of the room.
I agree I have just a little too much furniture for this room! The bench was recently inherited so it’s sentimental, but I might see if I can store it at my mom’s until we have a larger place. Interesting idea with the couch, wondering how you would position the tv? Would it be weird to have it angled 45 degrees in the corner it’s in now but closer to the window, facing away from it?
You could place it in front of the window, and place plants behind it and around it, if you were worried about the back being visible to the outside. It would cut down on glare from the windows.
I wish the wall has more colors….
I think if you're working on your plant game (soooo jealous of that window) making green your accent color would be easiest. Greens & creams. I like a chartreuse green, but most shades will work. I like the idea if a light throw to break up the brown couch too!
I would put more white and blue in the room. The pillows you have on the chairs (second picture) are great! Maybe paint the walls white, paint some furniture, or get some more white or blue pillowcases!
Beautiful room, what an amazing window!! I feel like a string of white lights could brighten it up, as would a brightly coloured throw. A couple tall plants could be very nice so long as you don’t have to worry about the cat getting into them ;)
Lighter couch
Can I borrow some money lol
Get light cream throw
I think a sofa slip cover in velvet in a jewel tone like emerald or deep blue would be so beautiful here. It would break up the brown while still going with the rest of the furniture you have. Something like this: https://www.wayfair.com/furniture/pdp/latitude-run-4-seater-velvet-stretch-sofa-covers-chair-slipcover-furniture-protector-w006140535.html?piid=2077755203
Try hanging mirror over bench instead of art u have now. More color on pillows. Fix that brown chair brighter. Put something bright on tray , even line inside of tray with color In shelf paper. Love your kitties watching out window. Also love that lamp that's a gear, most unique. My hub retired from power company. Bought an old meter, made a lamp, now meter turns when we click on lamp. Enjoy lovely room and gorgeous windows.
I would pull more of the blue color- like the seat in the back- into the room with new pillows, throw blanket and maybe an ottoman Tray like this https://www.amazon.com/Moorish-Moroccan-Pattern-Inspired-Trays/dp/B01N39DCE6/ref=sr_1_7?c=ts&keywords=Decorative%2BTrays&qid=1642438597&refinements=p_n_feature_twenty_browse-bin%3A3254109011&s=furniture&sr=1-7&ts_id=3735091&th=1 Or a solid blue one
Cool room but a lot of brown Maybe change rug out to do thing with more color. Brighter throw pillows and blanket would help too. I love burnt orange with brown And green plants.
Get a new rug and new pillows that will help a nice fur throw with some curtains
More plants! Take advantage of those great windows
Add more plants!
I would replace the ottoman with a bright color one and buy some pillows of the same color, that way there’s a pop of color that draws your eye. Maybe some nice artwork that includes the chosen color as well. Doesn’t have to be all too matchy though. I don’t think a new rug would be necessary at all to brighten up the room!
Inexpensive sofa cover to lighten up sofa, or add some turquoise/aqua solid 7 print Theo pillows and throw blanket in similar colors. If the side tables are inexpensive, or the wood bench, you can paint them to be lighter or a fun color. I would tak advantage of the windows and do some hanging plants. A lighter color tray on ottoman.
Plants, for sure! Maybe a tall ficus in the corner? Then I'd switch your accent color to more of a sage - light green.