Need help with family room/kitchen nook!

9 years ago

We recently moved into a new home and 8 months later I am still having problems decorating! The only items I plan to keep are the barstools and the media console. My taste is all over the place from modern & transitional to rustic modern and industrial. I have a credit at RH that I would like to use but I am not sure how to incorporate that look with the modern barstools and console. Also not sure what to do with the wall...paint it or do something with texture? I am not sure about hanging stuff because I don't want it to look too cluttered. As far a colors go, I was leaning towards greys with blue and yellow accents....but am open to suggestions. Also included a picture of kitchen nook. I am really confused and in desperate need of help! PS I plan to change out the light fixtures as well.

Featured Answer

decoenthusiaste

9 years ago

I'm sorry but that sofa looks like trouble from several angles - it will be the dickens to keep all those tufts clean, it doesn't look the least bit comfortable and it reminds me of a twix cookie before they cover it with caramel and chocolate. It will be dated in a heartbeat. Your larger purchases should be timeless because your mixed tastes may change over time - you can add your eclectic touches with less expensive accessories, but stick to more traditional classics with the high ticket items.

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (58)

PRO
Solar Texas
9 years ago
How about some brighter color splashes? It might just be the photo and a function of the lighting, but everything in the photos is coming up brown and tan. Even the chrome is reflecting all browns. Some bright cushions, rug, vases, pot plants, bright objects above kitchen cabinets, and other accessories will liven it up for relatively little expense.
Rose Bhuller thanked Solar Texas
Rose Bhuller
Original Author
9 years ago
zazfuzzroc thanks for the great feedback. I guess I just have to take a step back and think outside the box :) What do you think about this table in the kitchen nook? Is it too rustic? What kind of chairs would go well with the table given that the barstools are so modern? I feel that once I make a decision on some big item, everything else will fall into place. I also really like this coffee table at RH. I was initially leaning towards a sectional but I like the versatility of a sofa with chairs. Should I do an ottoman that matches the sofa?
Related Discussions
HELP: Small L-shaped kitchen with refuse chute on wall!
Q
Comments (10)
Are you saying that cooking next to the chute would gross you out even if its covered? Andd to use it for its intended purpose? In the first picture, it looks like the stove is directly underneath the chute, but I can see in other pics that it is not. I think it is far enough away. If everything is bagged properly, it shouldn't be that bad. You will have to check on local code regarding having the stove next to the window. Code may make your decision for you. People usually just put shorter cabinets above that type of range hood. I would recommend doing so because you need all the storage you can get. The hood--being different from the bank of cabinets--will provide relief to the eye. With cabinets above, it'll still feel balanced. And, as for covering the chute, do you want to cover it and restrict access or do you still need to use it for its intended purpose and just want to camouflage it? To help the room feel pleasant, cheery, and light, I recommend using a glass tile. Even though it's applied to a wall, the translucency still shows and evokes a sense of the adjectives above. I think it would help keep things light. Consider a slightly higher toe-kick underneath the lower cabinets. It helps to create a lighter-footed feeling. You could also consider cabinets that have furniture style feet. for a more open feeling. Your kitchen seems like an ideal room to use modern, lacquered cabinets. I don't know if you like the super-modern look, but I think it could be nice. Maybe just for the uppers. Use a medium-to-light toned wood on the bottom. A limestone floor might be nice. Or you can do wood or laminate. You could go with dark or light. I think it's mostly about preference.
...See More
Need help on the furniture layout for open plan living room
Q
Comments (9)
Thanks for your comments, its great to discuss with houzers! You are so right @decoenthusiaste the view is beautiful and one reason why I chose the apartment. the room is longer than it is wide, and I wanted the kitchen/bar to be included in the seating so the attached pic is how I was planning to lay it out. @cdrdesign I can't/change the table, its a gorgeous mahogany piece I had custom made and one I see keeping for some years yet! I dont plan a TV in this room, will put it in another room. This room in for living and entertaining guests. Sorry I dont have layout software, so you will have to make do with my scribbles using powerpoint! Could really do with help on choosing the light fitting in place of the central fan- what would look nice here or should I wait till the furniture gets here to choose the light to match?
...See More
Need help on my kitchen....
Q
Comments (1)
Try blocking off one of the doors that leads into the kitchen for more space?
...See More
Need help designing my corridor
Q
Comments (9)
Hi razis_wwf13, here are two articles on Houzz to get you started with. Although they are international, some ideas are applicable to the HDB context. My favourite is to use the corridor as an artwork gallery with some proper lighting :) [10 Clever Tips to Better Use Corridors[(https://www.houzz.com.sg/magazine/10-clever-tips-to-better-use-corridors-stsetivw-vs~77897314) [Create a Welcoming Hallway When you Don't Have one[(https://www.houzz.com.sg/magazine/create-a-welcoming-hallway-when-you-dont-have-one-stsetivw-vs~81092193)
...See More
zazfuzzroc
9 years ago
Rose, I love the mix of modern with rustic. Very cool. It makes the rustic look very sophisticated, to me anyway. A very attractive look. :)
PRO
CDR Design, LLC
9 years ago
Nice items from RH. Part of design is doing things in the right order. Measurements and planning need to take place first.

I would hate to see you make costly purchases without this step.
PRO
Marchi Kitchens
9 years ago
You might want to start creating an ideabook with inspirational photos and combine your favorite pieces from different rooms. Here are some that might get you started:
Marchi Kitchens · More Info

Marchi Kitchens · More Info

Marchi Kitchens · More Info

Marchi Kitchens · More Info

Best of luck! Looks like a great space!! Feel free to write us if you have any questions.
Maureen
9 years ago
last modified: 9 years ago
Kitchen nook - really like your table choice above and I would use chairs with stainless steel legs to coordiante with the bar stools. RH's Magnus chairs are a good option and they come in 3 styles and lots of different wood tones (add washable cushions for comfort for your kids). More industrial chandelier over table. Living area: I would purchase a coffee table similar to your console or an ottoman but only after you chose a couch (I would go with a sectional with young children - more comfy). Add a modern floor lamp, rug to ground the space. Mixing styles makes it more interesting and add some modern accessories on coffee table and add items to wall with console to fill in the space and I would tend to use soft colors, with your wall and kitchen colors. [houzz=
Hollace Chandelier · More Info
];[houzz=
Contemporary Living Room · More Info
];[houzz=
The home of Karlijn and Pieter · More Info
]
Rose Bhuller
Original Author
9 years ago
I like your ideas Maureen. I am not sure if you saw that I was thinking of going with the SOHO sofa from RH. I've attached a grey and a linen version of it. My original vision was shades of grey with accents of blue and yellow but the walls came out more taupy than grey (color is called moth gray from Porter Paints). There are so many new fabrics that are supposed to be pretty tough and stain resistant. I've always had leather so I am a bit nervous with fabric but love the way it looks.
Maureen
9 years ago
last modified: 9 years ago
I was just looking at the Belgian classic - done in a grey linen. It may give you more of a rustic/modern/industrial feel and there are lots of configuration choices and they have slip covers. I think I might go with something like that instead. The one above may limit how you can decorate around..without going too modern. If using every day and if you have pets and young children, I guess leather is a better choice. The Maxwell in the dark grey is really georgous and it's on sale!
PRO
Galilee Lighting
9 years ago
Some lighting ideas for the kitchen... every style is available in different colors and sizes.
If you would like to receive our catalog by email, contact Sales@GalileeLighting.com
PRO
Бахтинов Николай архитектор-дизайнер
9 years ago
Maybe sofa like this..
PRO
Бахтинов Николай архитектор-дизайнер
9 years ago
Also color not grey! I think beige better
backsplashideas
9 years ago
A rug would be a good place to start to break up the living room a bit. A rug and some throw pillows can make a large difference in your décor!
Rose Bhuller thanked backsplashideas
Rose Bhuller
Original Author
9 years ago
Thanks Nikolas and Decoenthusiaste...I was concerned about the tufting as well. I was leaning towards the Soho because it seemed like a real statement piece but not sure its timeless and could end up a costly mistake! How about these two? I really want to work greys in but it might end up looking too dark on sofa.
zazfuzzroc
9 years ago
Rose, that's the rolled arm sofa I was talking about. The cream above. ;)
PRO
Бахтинов Николай архитектор-дизайнер
9 years ago
Rolled arm is too classic for this interior. Left is better
PRO
Бахтинов Николай архитектор-дизайнер
9 years ago
I would also add rug
Maureen
9 years ago
I like the left one better...less formal and consider comfort..the one on the right has a very short back and is not as comfortable.
groveraxle
9 years ago
The Chesterfield is a classic, but I actually think the room is suited for leather.

The walls look very orange. Don't suppose you want to repaint?
Rose Bhuller
Original Author
9 years ago
Groveraxle the paint color is called Moth grey...I think it's the lighting in the picture that makes everything look orange. Thank you all for the great feedback. Yes I will definitely put a rug down to anchor the room.
PRO
Billiard Factory
9 years ago
Those barstools are very nice. It suits the kitchen very well.
decoenthusiaste
9 years ago
Can't go wrong with a Chesterfield.
PRO
CDR Design, LLC
9 years ago
last modified: 9 years ago
The RH Belgian Cambelback comes in 30 leather colors and 2 lengths. I think a cambelback would soften the look of the boxy counter stools and complement the arc on the island counter.

Your love of the soho would likely fade befoe the sofa itself fades.

[houzz=
Belgian Camelback | Restoration Hardware · More Info
]
sandradclark
9 years ago
Please do not go with a tufted sofa. It is a long commitment piece of furniture & as said before, you will hate it the first time you have to vacuum out each tuft. It is not child friendly. I had one and soon hated it and I had no children.

I love the round dining table you posted. I liked the sofa on the left you posted but be sure you are comfortable with the arm heights. Looks a little stiff to me. I like the coffee table you posted. Try looking at sofas that have removable/washable slipcovers on them. You won't go wrong with that. I think your furniture arrangement in the living area is very pleasant. I love the media center. Are you thinking of a sofa and two chairs for the living room? Will you be hanging drapes? If so go with a solid color close to your wall color. Hang them close to the ceiling and bring down to almost kissing the floor. Don't go with any prints until you hang drapes and place an area rug if you plan to. Good luck and have fun.
sandradclark
9 years ago
I like the Hagen or the Magnus chairs. Good price too.
Nikki
9 years ago
Love the barstools!! They keep a modern minimalist feel. I think the pendants over the counter should be changed to reflect modern....the current ones are traditional. And there should be 3. Maybe go with cylinder glass pendants. There are many options. Hope this helps and happy decorating!
groveraxle
9 years ago
http://www.restorationhardware.com/catalog/product/product.jsp?productId=prod3110063&categoryId=cat1701044
Rose Bhuller
Original Author
9 years ago
Sandradclark thanks for your input. Everyone has had really good suggestions. I think you are right about the Soho. It's an overwhelming piece that will be hard to maintain. I think going with a more classic sofa and building interest around that makes more sense. I like the suggestion from CDR DESIGN about the camelback sofa to soften the stools but I'm not crazy about the shape. However, I don't want these stools to look out of place.
Nikki
9 years ago
Btw...go with lighter furniture in living room. Also, because that window to outside is so beautiful...do not place a large sofa with the back to window. Make it feel open and inviting from the outside. Maybe a tufted bench or 2 chairs on that side.
groveraxle
9 years ago
I actually like your sofas--the colors, at least--and with the right rug and accessories, they and what looks like a labrador puppy would be smashing. Not that puppies aren't smashing all by themselves (pun intended).
groveraxle
9 years ago
Or you could go totally mid mod.
PRO
CDR Design, LLC
9 years ago
Could replace coffee table with round table or ottoman.

Need to first decide location, type and size of furniture.

Keeping existing sofas is an option
Rose Bhuller
Original Author
9 years ago
CDR Design I think I'm ready for a change. I'm tired of that sofa color and was looking to replace the entire family room. The only new purchases so far are the media console and the barstools. I plan on finding more suitable lighting as well.
PRO
CDR Design, LLC
9 years ago
That makes sense. Would you consider a sofa facing the tv and 2 chairs facing the window?
Rose Bhuller
Original Author
9 years ago
Yes that's exactly what I was thinking. I'd like to leave the side with the sliders open so the view can be enjoyed. Should I mix leather with fabric? Or stick to fabric only?
PRO
CDR Design, LLC
9 years ago
Can you please remove the sofa with its back to the window and add 2 chairs to the other side. Alternately, you can simply move the sofa with its back to the window to face the window.

This will give you a good idea of the size of chairs and sofa that will work in the space.
PRO
CDR Design, LLC
9 years ago
More inspiraton photos for you.
You certainly can and should mix leather and fabric. I sounds like you are more comfortable with a leather sofa. So, then you can add fabric chairs.
I would include some stainless steel element in your family room area. It could be in the furniture or in accents.

You can paint the room, once other items are chosen (if needed).
Can we see closer color of granite?
Which RH sofa/chairs do you like (other than the soho)?

More inspiration photos for you. If you go yellow, I would go more earthy.

[houzz=
Bergen Street Residence · More Info
[houzz=
Palmer Pointe Road Residence 2 Lower-Level Family Room · More Info
[houzz=
West 8th Ave - Design Project · More Info
[houzz=
Modern Cottage Dream Home in Edina · More Info
]
Rose Bhuller
Original Author
9 years ago
After all the constructive feedback I received I am looking for something other than the soho (too trendy and overwhelming). Perhaps the Collins, Capri or Easton?...i am open to other suggestions as well. I want the sofa to be comfortable but not sloppy looking...as it will be used for lounging and watching tv. I have had many suggestions to go with a lighter color sofa which I agree with but I also like the durability of leather. RH has a line of fabrics called perennials that are supposed to be stain resistant and very durable so if I don't do leather I will go with that.
PRO
CDR Design, LLC
9 years ago
last modified: 9 years ago
Of the 3, I would choose the Collins. I would get it with railheads to pull in your kitchen stools. It comes in several lengths and 2 depths. It has clean lines, but not so tailored to feel "hard".

The Capri has only 2 cushions and it is odd sitting on that middle spot.
The Easton has very high arms, which may not be comfortable for you.

[houzz=
Collins | Restoration Hardware · More Info
]
Rose Bhuller
Original Author
9 years ago
Yes my favorite of the 3 is the Collins too. The Capri looks comfortable but I prefer 3 cushions on a sofa as well.
PRO
CDR Design, LLC
9 years ago
I also like how the very squareness of the Collins mimics the counter stools. Then, you might want to introduce some arcs to complement the island.

A statement coffee table is a possibility. It depends on what you see as the function of the coffee table/center ottoman.
[houzz=
Living Room · More Info
[houzz=
Contemporary Living Room · More Info
]
Rose Bhuller
Original Author
9 years ago
The Collins is more my taste but I am intrigued by the Belgian slope arm even though the curve on the camelback would soften the squareness of the stools. I have never had a sofa with one long cushion however...will it keep it's shape? I like the parquet coffee table but also love both coffee tables you posted!
PRO
CDR Design, LLC
9 years ago
I would choose the sofa first. Sit in the sofas. Think of how you use them. Do you ever lie down on the sofa? Would then the slope arm work for you? Think about your current sofas. What do you like/no like about them.
zazfuzzroc
9 years ago
That's some great advice CDR. :) Can I ask a question? In deciding on a sofa, what is the best inner workings that keep the seating area firm? Is it the actual cushion or inside? Sorry to invade, I was very curious. My leather has always held its firm seating, but the material sofa is now like sitting in a ditch. lol :)
decoenthusiaste
9 years ago
https://www.houzz.com/magazine/things-you-need-to-know-about-buying-a-sofa-stsetivw-vs~11734542
zazfuzzroc
9 years ago
Thanks deco, I guess these days everything is just a click away. ;) Much appreciated. :)
Rose Bhuller
Original Author
9 years ago
CDR here are some more pics of kitchen with close up of granite. Need to change out pendants and add accents and some color! Don't want to do this until I figure out the pieces in the family room.
sandradclark
9 years ago
Have you considered one of many sofas RH features that have slipcovers. With a dog and or kids that might make more sense. I bought online a sofa that was very costly because I liked the style & it was leather. Was to keep my Russian wolfhound off the furniture. It is so low to sit on I cannot use it after knee replacement surgery. There it sits to be used only by company, (and they must be short). I'm very tall. Whatever you buy be sure it is comfortable and functional. Not just pretty! Sofas are a long term commitment. I'm sure I said that already.
sandradclark
9 years ago
the Belgian track arm or the Belgian slope arm are slipcovered and at a very good on sale price. Try them out.
PRO
CDR Design, LLC
9 years ago
last modified: 9 years ago
Correct. The sofa has to function for you foremost. Looks like you have a lot of neutral tones in the granite, both grey and brown. So, I think any neutral tone sofa would work.