When you have an open-floor plan, you want to create a smooth visual transition from one room to the other while maintaining individual spaces.
Our feature photograph shows a lovely kitchen and dining room that is a good example of how to make the transition with style. While painting both rooms in the same paint colour isn't always the answer, it works in this situation as it creates visual flow and provides a relationship between the two separate rooms.
The light sunny yellow wall colour is a good choice with all of the wooden elements in both rooms. It's an airy colour that opens up the space and reflects natural light. One could also paint the dining room in the green colour of the upper kitchen cabinets to create stronger visual separation, as the two paint tones are similar in strength and the colours complement one another.
Other elements that tie the two rooms together are the wooden cabinets and the wooden dining table. If you can imagine a steel and glass dining table in its place you see how it would appear out of place in this instance.
A few subtle touches in maintaining the relationship of the two spaces is the addition of black accents in the dining room, which speak to the dark countertop in the kitchen and also relate to the dining room light fixture. As well, the rectangular artwork on the wall to the right of the doorway has woodsy tones that help marry the two spaces and create a smooth transition.
There are elements that speak to each room on its own merit and help keep the two rooms from appearing as one large space. In the kitchen these include the green accents in accessories and linens that co-ordinate with the upper cabinets. In the dining room, the black and white print on the left wall and the chandelier speak strongly to the dining room décor.
Painting the upper kitchen cabinets in a light colour and installing glass panel doors help break up the monotony of the dark wooden cabinets and the wooden island in the kitchen. It also speaks to the slightly eclectic, rustic style of the homeowners.
Study photographs of similar spaces to see how it's done and then give it a whirl for yourself.
Take in the views from both rooms into the other to ensure a smooth transition with a few elements of surprise in each space.
Once you've completed the above task, put your personal signature on it with unique accessories. I found some great pieces at Wicker World that are wonderfully different. From tabletop displays made from industrial mechanical parts to movie-set sized tripod lighting, there is definitely something out there for every taste.
Ideas for walls
If your young daughter wants a chandelier in her bedroom but it's not in the budget, install a wall mural of a chandelier silhouette. This is a stylish and less permanent solution to a child's every changing whims.
If you want a feature wall that is not permanent, consider the new style in stone-look wallpaper. This is a great idea for renters as the wallpaper can be removed before you move.
Can't get away to a tropical destination? Put up a wall mural with like scenes to take you away from it all.
Metal wall art sculptures are a popular choice in wall décor these days. The range of designs and colours along with the element of an industrial look, make these pieces unique and eye-catching.
Wall mirrors with unique frames can add a reflective quality and an artistic touch. Sets of mirrors in various styles and sizes can also make a unique wall display or focal wall addition. Focal mirrors are great in the dining room to visual open the space and reflect candlelight.
Add colour through accessories
Adding colour to your décor can be a simple as purchasing a stunning coloured glass vase, charger plate or other colourful ceramic accent pieces. These items don't have to be expensive. Hit the thrift stores and you just might find a few inexpensive treasures to add to your unique space.
connieoliver@shaw.ca
