One of my favorite things about putting together a space for someone else is the ease of it. Now, I’m not saying it all comes together in a matter of minutes, but for some reason it’s ten times easier to pick things out for other people than it is to pick things out for myself. My sister-in-law had asked for some help with her living room recently, so we got to work, and I thought I’d pass along the budget friendly design. First I had her create a Pinterest board and spaces she liked. From there I narrowed it down to a few images I thought were a fit and got her approval on the direction. Then she held a fussy baby one afternoon, so I could have some fun sourcing products. Well, the fun was had for her benefit, so I think we both win.
Alesia lives in a cute, midcentury ranch and was ready to start fresh. She has sold or is willing to sell everything. She inherited our past-loved chesterfield and painted her wall’s Benjamin Moore’s Moonshine about a year ago, so that was our starting point. With the hope of adding pieces when budget allows, I put together a plan that works with the bones of her house, her personal style, and her three sometimes rambunctious boys, plus a puppy. No glass here. Alesia loves color and is not afraid of it. But doesn’t love when she tires of a room full of the same colors after a few years. I set her up with a plan that is grounded in neutrals and includes a shot of bold color. Yellow is one of her favorites, and the chair is a great price. I love a room that has one, big pop and the wingback is just that.
Storage is important, but in a smaller space I prefer to do light and airy side tables and one big piece for containing the clutter. Wood, midcentury sideboards, dressers, and credenzas are always popping up on Craigslist, or this DIY floating credenza from Little Green Notebook is so good.
SHEEPSKIN | SOFA | FRINGE PILLOW | GEOMETRIC PILLOW | GOLD SIDE TABLE (SIMILAR) |STRIPED RUG | COWHIDE | CHAIR | SIDE TABLE | WINGBACK | SIDE TABLE | OTTOMAN |
If budget allows, this new World Market chair and ottoman is so pretty and really functional for TV watching. The above is a great start to her living room, and I’m looking forward to adding in the soft styling and accessories as the room progresses!
Check out more budget friendly ideas here.
Anne says
Is the top picture the room you did, or an inspiration room?
themakerista@gmail.com says
It’s inspiration. The credit is linked below it.
Cindy Keller says
Hi Gwen, I am looking forward to your updates on this project, The yellow sofa is an attractive addition and the rugs will complement well not to mention the fascinating credenza. I enjoy makeovers done on a budget…always. Thanks for the colorful sharing.
themakerista@gmail.com says
Thanks for following along, Cindy!