I have some good friends who currently live in a comfortable ranch style home. All of the living space is on single floor, with plenty of room for kids, pets and friends. After a recent promotion (congrats!), my friends are relocating to the big city – Atlanta! Check out this gorgeous colonial.

Their new house doesn’t just include a second story, it boasts a dramatic double-height living room with clerestory windows and an open staircase. They want to keep this front room more adult friendly, as a place to gather for cocktails before or after dinner. The paint color also stays, as does the flooring (good call).

Let’s see how we can transform this cavernous room into an elegant hangout.

A Southern Lounge

This is the perfect corner for a modern sectional, which really sets the lounge mood. A flower burst rug and trunk coffee table, keep a warm, friendly vibe. Industrial lighting and retro artwork give the “speakeasy” feeling. I would definitely relax here with friends.

Cozy and Bright

Here is lighter and brighter room that ties into the crisp white trim and neutral walls. A gel fuel fireplace with wall-t0-wall bookshelves gives an instant focal point to the large space. The oversized plaid chairs have clean modern lines, but give a nice men’s club feeling. They also offer a nice contrast to the organic rug pattern. I would certainly cozy up with a hot toddy.

Modern Eclectic

This option is a little funky, but I wanted to show a space that was both modern and friendly. The foundation of the room, the couch and rug, are simple brown. It’s the fun play of patterns that gives this room life. With some quirky pillows and custom wall art, I can see both adults and kids kicking back in this room.

 Resources

Southern Lounge

• Nova Sectional Couch from Bo Concept
•  40’s Studio Floor Lamp from Zin Home
• Carson Brown/Blue Rug from Overstock
• Gaston Steamer Trunk from Zin Home
• Whitney Toast Chair from Overstock
• Marlow drum stool from Zin Home
• New Orleans print from Art.com
• New Orleans Street Sign from Art.com
• Wall Sconce from Lamps Plus

Cozy and Bright

• Gel fuel Fireplace from Woodland Direct
• Payton Bookcase from Crate and Barrel
• Donegal chair from Crate and Barrel
• Hidden Escape Rug from Overstock
• Soho Lounge chair from Overstock
• Ludlow Side Table from Pottery Barn
• Chloe side table from Pottery Barn
• Wall sconce from Lamps Plus

Modern Eclectic

• Brighton Club Chair from Ballard Designs
• Hand Woven Shag Rug from Overstock
• Oliver Chair from West Elm
• P7 Coffee Table from CB2
• Hammered Metal Lamp from Lamps Plus
• Jonathon Adler Pillows
• Clock from Ballard Designs
• Crown Plaques from Ballard Designs
• Rattan Toy Basket from Restoration Hardware