Before

Living Room

Make the mantel special. Choose something unexpected to catch the eye. The print that was hanging over the mantel was moved to the opposite wall and replaced with a section of wrought-iron fencing propped on the mantel. Large wooden candlesticks and ceramic vases introduce bolder scale and curvy shapes. They also add touches of color to contrast with the dark leather and wood.

Dress bare walls. The space between the windows becomes a secondary focal point when it's occupied by a large print paired with a weightier chest and lamp. Although the chest is a little too tall to serve as an end table, its dark color gives it visual heft that tethers the two armchairs to it.

 

After

Organize bookcases for more pleasing displays. Rearranging the books and objects on the shelves creates a clearer rhythm of horizontals, verticals, and negative space (empty areas).

Use trays or flat-bottomed baskets to keep stacks of magazines tidy on the coffee table. A woven tray with a waterproof base can also substitute for coasters and protect the surface of the coffee table from spills or messy snacks.