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Hello friends!
Today I'm hitting pause on the holiday craft extravaganza to discuss a major redecorating project I have on the horizon.
I want to share what I have in mind.
And gather your opinions to help me decide.
Are you ready?
Fabulous.
So. If you recall, a few years ago, I shared my basement family room and how I kept our sectional sofa looking fresh with a good steam cleaning.
Well, two years later, let's just say that now, the sofa needs more than steam.
Honestly, it shouldn't come as a shock, we bought that couch back in 2002, when we moved in. It's been through toddlers, teens and twenty-somethings.
Of course, whenever you replace an item like this in a room, other changes inevitably follow.
For example the carpet is just as old {and dated} as that ratty sofa. And the walls are a builder's grade shade of beige. Dented, marred and scuffed beige, which means it's time for new paint, as well.
Or is it?
Hear me out.
That room was designed to be a playroom. There were a lot of primary colored toys scattered about so I went with a neutral tone paint.
However now, we're all grown up, and I'd like to add a bit of sophistication to the room.
My husband's office is in this area. My kids still entertain and hang out in this space and I come down to sew and craft.
And I think we all deserve better than beige.
But what?
More paint? That still felt...insufficient. Uninspired and, well, boring.
And then it struck me.
What if I added wallpaper.
Or better yet, a wallpaper mural! Nothing boring about that.
Growing up my mom had wallpaper murals in the living room, the dining room and the basement. And I loved them.
They added dimension, color and personality to an otherwise plain space.
So I logged on to Ever Wallpaper and started to poke around.
They make lovely wall coverings, in any size, they ship for free and they're offered in two paper weights and a peel and stick option.
And since I'd recently papered my pantry, I was sure I was ready for a bigger project.
With my computer in hand and the idea to cover just one wall, the long one behind the sofa, I began dreaming.
It's dark in the basement and the windows are super small.
I thought that adding a scene to it, would brighten the place up and improve the view in one fell swoop.
The paneling would remain on two walls and on the last wall, behind the TV, I'd pull a color from the mural and paint.
At first, I fell in love with these blue flowers. I know blue, not usually in my wheelhouse, but so beautiful.
I saw them in an inspiration photo on the website and literally gasped.
Then there's this pattern, Flower Ocean, that I could just wrap myself up in. How dreamy.
It would bring the red from upstairs down, along with all the cottage style feels.
Right into my husband's office. Hmmm...maybe not ideal, but, I do love it. And it would fit the wall well.
Then I saw the stone walls and thought about how much I loved that look in my pantry. This particular wallpaper has a cottage style feel and the window cutout would fit right in.
So it's high on my list.
But, with so many, many designs to choose from I was sucked back in and started looking again.
That's when I came across the books. I've always wanted a library, and when I was young, my mom had a books on a shelf wallpaper, so this print really tugged at my heart.
And then I stumbled upon the window wallpapers. Imagine the space and light that "Grassland" would bring into this sublevel room.
A giant window and a country view without any construction at all. Or a move.
My outdoorsman was all over this pattern, but I wasn't sure how it would look with our actual window cut into it.
Of course, I could solve that with a custom design, take a photo of my beloved beach, for example, and paste that view to the wall.
Or our favorite vacation spot, or red tulips or...create my own art. Which is a whole other option.
Can you see my dilemma?
I'm going down decorating rabbit hole again and I'm honestly overwhelmed.
And when I poll my family, they just say, They're all great, so whatever you think.
Not helpful.
So this is where you come in. I'd love to hear your thoughts.
What pattern would you choose?
Did I miss one you think would suit the space better?
You can peek at the inspiration photos to really see how they look in a room.
Should I customize the design so it's only above the sofa? What about that window?
Do I ignore it or encorporate it?
Decisions, decisions, decisions.
As you can guess, I'm excited to get started.
So I can't wait to hear what everyone thinks.
😊😊😊
I can see the draw to the books, but they are way too busy and dark for a basement. I would choose something that expands and brightens the space a bit - especially in a basement that tends to have low ceilings. Since the beach is right outside your door, maybe a beautiful sunset shot would still be cozy but expansive. It would be so exciting to create your own individual art that no one else has! I would explore that!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for the very thoughtful comment, Sara! I'm a huge, huge fan on the beach and I probably have 100 photos on my phone since I just love the way it looks at all times of the day and in all seasons. That might just be the way to go. And I agree about the books. Too dark...but so charming!!
DeleteDefinitely agree about the beach at sunset (or sunrise.)
DeleteHa! You could incorporate the window in by simply papering the panes and woodwork!
That might work. It would BE work, but... What do you think?
This is a tough one my friend. I am going to be no help because I love them all, however, maybe a little help.
ReplyDeleteI love the books paper and the library look without a doubt, but light may be an issue.
The other with the windows and the conservatory look is my other favorite. It will give the illusion of light.
See minimal help because it takes me months and months to pick wallpaper. I still want it as accents in my bathroom, but have I even looked?
No, no time but winter gives me a slow down a bit in blogging, so projects are going to get done.
Thanks for the opinion, my friend! I love the conservatory look as well. It's so open and spacious. There are tons of patterns like that, too...some with snow, or lakes. I just adore the idea of bringing the outdoors, in and on such a grand scale. I think it may take me months to pick, as well.
DeleteBy the way, I just told my hubby he has to do the book paper somewhere in his office. He LOVES books!
ReplyDeleteHaha! I agree! It may be too dark for my basement, but it would look fabulous in my hallway. Might have to make that happen, as well!!
DeleteI think that wall of windows would brighten up the space. It looks so bright and airy for the basement. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteThat is what my gut says, too, Dalila! I really like that option...
DeleteAnd your window could be incorporated. No curtains, just the window.
DeleteFlower Ocean is definitely you!!!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much! I agree. I love that pattern and I *think* it's growing on my husband! 😉
DeleteFlower Ocean is definitely you!!!
ReplyDeleteFlower Ocean is definitely you!!!
ReplyDeleteThey are all great but I am loving the idea of a beach too!
ReplyDeleteAnother vote for the beach, Penny! I think I may be going in that direction. Thanks for weighing in!
DeleteI would go with a window wallpaper. It's a basement and that paper would definitely brighten the room. The flowers are beautiful though - I'm a sucker for flowers.....maybe they can go somewhere else???
ReplyDeleteEveryone seems to love that giant window, Ann. Isn’t it unique? I’ve never seen anything like it and I know my husband is fond of it, since he feels like he’s trapped in a well all day long! From November to March, it’s dark outside when he goes downstairs to work and when he comes back up. Having a bright and cheery “daylight” view at his desk would be a huge mood lifter for sure!
DeleteAlthough I liked each of the wallpaper choices for a different reason, my best advice to you is to choose your new sofa first. We've had such a hard time over the past year finding one that would complement the rest of our decor...the shortages are real. I think that your new sofa will speak to you as to the best wall covering or paint color. Good luck finding exactly what you're looking for in the furniture department :)
ReplyDeleteThank you for that sage advice, I hear you loud and clear and really appreciate your input. I'm actually in the market for two sofas, since they're both on their way out and I've run into the same issues. It's been so frustrating. The sofas are either not available in "that color" anymore, months out or they suggest getting something custom, which means waiting those same months with an astronomical price tag. That is not a win-win.
DeleteI haven't thought about wallpaper in years but after seeing your pantry and all those murals it's all I can think about. There's one called Vintage Corridor that I think I need to have somewhere in my home now. I think it's another one for you to consider, too. It'd be like adding a room to your room. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteAllison
I saw that one, Allison! It's on the short list. Isn't it fabulous? I think it might be a little bit dark, but yes, it has that cottage, old world feel that I'm so fond of and it really would trick your eye into thinking there's another room beyond that wall. Thanks for the suggestion! And if you add it somewhere to your own home, I hope you'll let us know!!
DeleteLoving the Wall of windows! In Seattle we would love that to feel more open and bright mentally.
ReplyDeleteThere sure are a lot of tally marks in that window column! I think I might be leaning that way, too. It would definitely bring in that open and bright feeling. Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts!
DeleteOcean, or the wall of windows ~
ReplyDeleteThanks Bobbie! That seems to be the consensus!
DeleteIt's hard when there are so many beautiful options. I would definitely go with light as a basement can be dark. xo Laura
ReplyDeleteThanks Laura! So many, many pretty choices. It’s going to be hard to pick.
DeleteOh my, I liked so many. This will be a fun project to learn from you on.
ReplyDeleteI think this could be so cool, Carla! I just have to decide on a pattern...and every time I check the website I find more to add to the list. 😉
DeleteI love the flowers and those books!!!! I don't envy you those decisions! Can't wait to see it completed. :)
ReplyDeleteThanks Libby! I can't wait to get started with this one...and as soon as I pick one I will!! Haha!
DeleteOh my! I will tell you that after taking wallpaper down in this house, I swore I would never have wallpaper again. But... wow! I love these.
ReplyDeleteThe books is something we would like, but I agree that it's too dark. I love, love, love that wall of windows. It would totally change your basement look. I do worry about what it would look like with your window in it though.
I agree that a beach scene would be awesome too.
So - aren't I helpful? :) Good luck and I can't wait to see what you go with.
Right there with you, Mari. We've done our share of steaming and scraping, too. I don't know why I'm not letting that stop me. Maybe it's because of how the pantry was to do and how much I love it. Now I just have to pick a pattern!!
DeleteSo many great choices Kim. I think maybe a wall treatment wallpaper of shiplap or bricks would be a nice consideration too. Gives some texture to the walls but can stay lighter and brighter. Whatever you decide I know it will be beautiful. If you love that sectional have you thought about slipcovering it with a pattern? Wallpaper is a big decision and commitment so take your time. Ha Ha says the girl that likes to get her projects going and done quickly lol! Good luck with your decision. xoxo
ReplyDeleteGreat suggestions, Kris! Something neutral would probably be best. I'm just so in love with some of the bolder patterns. I know that might be a huge risk though. Honestly, I put everything non-Christmas related out of my brain for the last few weeks...but now I'm itching to get this project going!! xxoo
DeleteKim, go with the blue flowers. There's enough red in the pattern you could bring in some red accessories and really warm it up. I absolutely love it, and it's definitely got a cottage vibe.
ReplyDeleteI say no to the wall and the books (shocker from me) because it will make the room too dark, and the other flowers look too much like the rest of your cottage. I'd go with something a little different you could work with. I can see why you fell in love with them. But the safe choice would be the Flower Ocean because it would blend nicely with the rest of your cottage.
I can't wait to see what you choose. All are truly beautiful.
Thanks Ricki. I do love those blue flowers. I took a break from all things during the last weeks before Christmas so this week when I get back to the patterns I feel like I'll be looking at them with fresh eyes! I think I have a couch picked out now, so it's just all about the wallpaper now! Thanks for the input!!
DeleteThe think about wallpaper is that you get tired of it, so it’s best to go classic. The library is too dark, the window might become too fake after some time. The flower ocean does work with your colors,but it’s bold and you may not like that in five years. I love the china rose. It would lighten your space, especially if you went with a light sofa. Is it too feminine for your husband?
ReplyDeleteOther than that you could go classic beachy. Whatever you do I know it will work. You have vision.
Thanks Susan! I still haven't chosen a pattern yet. Christmas distracted me...all that sparkle! Hopefully, I'll get back to decor this week. I appreciate all your input though. Great points one and all...I'll keep you posted!
DeleteThe book mural is very cool but I agree that it may be too dark for a basement. The windows mural is fantastic to brighten a basement but even better would be the windows mural with your favorite beach photo. Good luck with your decision making and I'm looking forward to seeing which mural you decide to go with.
ReplyDeleteI think everyone agrees with your, Marie! I do love those books, but they would literally wall that space in. I'm leaning toward the beach. Then again, I always am! Thanks for the help!
DeleteLots of great choices, Kim. I love the look of the library, but yes, it's too dark for your room. Fun to read all the comments and suggestions, and I have to agree with Kris. If it were me, I'd consider something like a wallpaper that has the look of ship lap, bricks, or even stone. I was looking at the brick and stone wallpapers on the Ever Wallpaper site and found some great choices. A couple of things make me think this way: 1, you've got that window to deal with, and for me it would drive me crazy to have a mural of a scene with a window stuck in it. But that's me. Some people wouldn't have a problem with that. 2, I love artwork and would want to have the choice of adding art to my wall, and change it out on a whim. Which leads me to 3, I think as pretty as murals are, for me I would get tired of it and want to change it. Yeah, I have issues with commitment. LOL. I know whatever you decide it will be wonderful and it will reflect what you love. Which is always the best. Hugs.
ReplyDeleteNancy, I agree, that window in the middle of a picture of a window will drive me crazy. There's no way I could deal with it. I think I'm going to have to go with something a bit more neutral or go all out and pick something so bold that you'll never even see the window! I also get the commitment issue...it's a big one. I'm still thinking! Thanks for the help!! Hugs to you!!
DeleteKim, I'm surprised we haven't bumped into each other in the decorating rabbit hole! I'm a regular! As much as I love the library idea, I think it's too dark for the basement. My favorite is the windows one, but it might be complicated with the window. If you have the confidence to use your own photo of your beach, that would be amazing! You'd have it with you all the time. It would be something personal for everyone in your family. And then, again.....you're so creative and talented, I bet you could come up with your own art that would work with the window, the sofa, and brighten the space. Whichever one you end up choosing, I know it will be fabulous. And now, if you'll excuse me, I've got to head over the that site because you've given me an idea.
ReplyDeleteAmy, you are very kind and give me too much credit in the art department! I'd love to be able to come up with something on my own, but I think that may be beyond me. However you have me thinking...I can position the patterns in a way I like and work that window in nicely. Everything is customizable. Now it's back to the drawing board with a fresh perspective. Thank you so much and see you around that decorating rabbit hole!! Happy New Year!
DeleteKim,
ReplyDeleteI like the all so I am not going to be much help!!
Thanks so much for stopping by!! I appreciate all your visits and kind words!!!
Stay safe, healthy and happy!!
Hugs,
Deb
Thanks so much, Debbie! Happy New Year!!
DeleteYou have so many great choices. I am looking forward to seeing this room evolve as you work on it.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Paula! Happy New Year!
DeleteI love that grassland paper! How that would open up your room! Wow! I do like the idea of an ocean/beach view as well, since that is so close to your home, but the window would be in the middle of a sunset or something! Ha! Really, though, don't let that window stop you.
ReplyDeleteWhat a fun project this will be!
Thanks Deanna! I'm still in contemplation mode over here. The holidays blew me off course. I'm getting back to it this week though and appreciate all your input. I'll keep you posted!
DeleteFirst off whatever you decide will be perfect. But I have to say this is one of my favorite posts of yours about refreshing the sectional. I knew you were real when I read this. Other bloggers would have run out and bought a $6000 couch and then bragged about it was n their blogs. In fact in my Instagram description for The Little Green Cottage I wrote no $6000 couches because of your honesty and how much it has inspired me...to be me and be real. I made all my grown daughters read the post about refreshing the sectional to show them how real you are. Ok so back to the wall paper...I think you would be happiest with a floral one that extends your beautiful cottage vibe into the basement. When I saw the floral one my heart skipped a beat and said wow. But honestly anything you pick will be perfect! Good luck and thanks for being so real all the time.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Dena, your words always make me smile! I wish I could keep that sectional, it's just too far gone at this point. However I can assure you, there won't be any $6000 sectionals in that room!! Maybe lots of flowers though...still thinking it through!!
DeleteMy pick would be the Flower Ocean if you had a blank wall. I might buy it for my bedroom wall!!
ReplyDeleteHowever, for your wall and furniture placement, I think the patio window idea - with your own sunset - from the fb post might be your best bet. Leave the window alone, and skip curtains. It wouldn't be distracting with the patio door. Trimming out the mural to look like it's a view from a patio door would be less expensive due to the smaller size, and might offset the cost of the trim. It wouldn't really be that much work, just good cutting/measuring skills. Alas, I'd have to pay someone to do THAT for me! Measuring and cutting are not my forte`.
Isn't it pretty, Nancy? I have to say it's very striking. Great suggestions, too. I have to run it all by the mister, since he's my measuring and cutting guy. If anyone can figure it it, he totally can! Thanks!!
DeleteI understand your dilemma well. We hung a wallpaper design on my parents dining room wall. It looks amazing, but there was no window to deal with. My mom chose a butterfly garden theme, and we used beautiful faux butterflies all over it to make it 3D. So yes, the window throws a corkscrew into the decision process, because any design would have to be uniform in order that the window wouldn't be a problem. Unless, as you said, you incorporated the window into the design. This is a huge dilemma for sure, and I feel your pain. So hard to know what to do! But, I know you'll figure it out, will look forward to seeing what your decision will be :) Blessings and hugs Kim!
ReplyDeleteUgh, that window is really throwing Marilyn. I'd put the entire plan by the wayside during the Christmas season, the tree and all its sparkle distracted me. Funny how all rooms look perfect by the light of the evergreen. Your parents' mural sounds lovely and your embellishments sound so sweet. I hope my wall comes out as well!! Blessings to you and Merry Christmas my friend!!
DeleteHmmmm. I am not a "wallpaper" person, but I think your beach idea would be my favorite! I know you can laminate photos to fabric. For your window, could you make a shade that uses a portion of your photo....at least enough of it to keep the colors the same???
ReplyDeleteSorry I am not very helpful, but I can't wait to see what you do :-)
Christmas blessings, J
J...that is actually a crazy good idea!! Yes!! I could use the piece of wallpaper we cut out for the window and make a shade. You, my friend, are amazing and actually super helpful!! Genius!! Christmas blessings to you!!
DeleteThe blue is MY favorite, and I know you like Flower Ocean. I think you'd be happier with those. Books are a wonderful idea, but I think too dark for a sub-level room with small windows. I don't particularly like the windows, but guess they're OK if they bring the desired light.
ReplyDeleteSo now, you've got a million different opinions, LOL.
A million is right, Florence and actually even more in my head!! I guess I'm just going to have to sit on it a bit longer until something finally hits me...but I appreciate your input. It helps more than you know!!
Delete