Working with Family: Living Room Interior Redesign
My sister Lisa and I are very close and when she found her new home she called me and asked me to meet her there with her Realtor who was in the process of placing the bid. I grabbed my camera and walked through what would become her new home taking photos and mentally decorating each room.
Prior to me becoming a home stager, Lisa had hired professional interior designers which I must say did a beautiful job. However, now that I was an interior designer/home stager, she had decided to put my skills to the test and redesign her new home. I’d be lying if I didn’t tell you I was a little apprehensive. Working with family can be daunting, but I was confidant that I could create a dream living room that she would love.
Like me, Lisa is a perfectionist with a very particular design style. Let’s just say she doesn’t settle for anything that she doesn’t love - and why would she?! She wanted each piece of furniture to be unique along with the accessories.................without breaking the bank.
We set a budget and she was skeptical that I could indeed create the living room of her dreams for almost half the cost she's paid interior decorators in the past. Knowing where to get the deals, having great bargaining skills (if you don't ask, you'll always pay full price), I knew I could complete the job and stay within her budget.
First I chose a rug and we worked our way up. I shopped for furniture and narrowed it down to 3 selections for her to choose from. I always encourage my clients to get involved because after all, it's their space and I want them to engage in the process. I chose a neutral wall color so Lisa could always add pops of color with art and accessories to change the look in the future.
When the job was complete I manage to come in at $1,700. under budget. Moreover, 70% of everything I purchased was on sale. I mixed high-end furniture (Hickory Chair is her favorite furniture manufacturer) with great deals from less expensive stores and when done right, it all looks high-end.
Before photo: My sister with a big smile after finally finding her new home....
After: I found this sunburst and it became the room's focal point...
Before:
Lisa's style is traditional but updated - not grandma attic. I found this more contemporary wing chair and chose an updated fabric for a classic bergere chair...
Lisa's Realtor waiting to hear if her bid was accepted...
I chose a variety of textures: metals, glass, fabric and wood...
Before (Lisa's Realtor receiving the call that her offer was accepted)
After: a warm, beautiful space that reflects Lisa and her family...
Me adding the finishing touches...
Lisa loves her new living room and I have since designed several more rooms which I'll post in the future. It was a great experience and I’m so happy my sister Lisa has her dream living room!
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