Go beyond wainscotting, skirted sofas, and the like with these updated takes on classic styles
Written bySunsetSeptember 20, 2012
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Photo by Thomas J. Story; written by Jess Chamberlain
1 of 9Photo by Thomas J. Story; written by Jess Chamberlain
Country chic
Fireplace, sink-in leather chair, and tapestry ottoman give a lodge-like feel to this living room corner. White walls and sisal carpeting keep the room from feeling too heavy.
Photo by Thomas J. Story
2 of 9Photo by Thomas J. Story
Revived classics
Secondhand furniture that's seen better days can be instantly revived with a coat of bright paint. Take this curvy table, which went from drab brown to stunner, thanks to a punch of bold red low-VOC paint. The vintage settee adds even more classic style.
Photo by E. Spencer Toy
3 of 9Photo by E. Spencer Toy
Mantle headboard
This mantle headboard imparts a sense of tradition, while the orange-and-floral wallpaper freshens up the look.
Wood paneling and a brick fireplace give this living room a classic cabin feel that's instantly cozy.
Photo by Lisa Romerein
5 of 9Photo by Lisa Romerein
Vintage flair
Classic bedding--monogram included--looks streamlined and chic below a vintage chandelier.
Photo by Thomas J. Story
6 of 9Photo by Thomas J. Story
Go for balance
Open doorways, glass-door cabinets, and a neutral palette keep the room from feeling heavy. The madrone-topped sideboard and the dining set give the room a classic feel.
Photo by E. Spencer Toy
7 of 9Photo by E. Spencer Toy
Play with light
The gray-blue paint creates a distinctly elegant mood in the living room. The dark color is brightened by the ample natural light and the lighter-colored ceiling, which brings the eye up and heightens the space. ceiling a lighter color to bring the eye up and heighten the space.
Photo by Thomas J. Story
8 of 9Photo by Thomas J. Story
Frame your space
Bookshelves surrounding the entry from a living room to a dining room make creative use of what might otherwise be under-utilized wall space, and impart a modern library look.
Photo by Thomas J. Story
9 of 9Photo by Thomas J. Story
Mixing old & new
In this bungalow's remodel, the living room kept its original paneling, box beam ceilings, and built-in bookcases, but got a face-lift courtesy of Danish modern furniture and a fresh coat of a cheery yet not overpowering color.