6 Decorating Tricks that Glam Up Your Living Room in a Flash

In the newly renovated, wide-open front room of our 2013 House of the Year, we established two living areas above-one traditional; the other-laid back.

1. Let ceilings soar. Once-dark wood beams and rafters got an instant lift from Benjamin Moore's Decorators White paint.


2. Add opposing colors.
Shaw's recycled-hickory flooring, in a deep-brown stain, anchors the airy space and contrasts against the walls, painted Spring Mint by Benjamin Moore. Bonus: The purposefully distressed planks look as if they've been here forever.

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3. Strive for balance, not boring sameness. Note how the 8-by-10-foot jute rug (from Surya's CL line) is echoed by the round one on the right. A vintage Aero Studios floor lamp and a fig tree bring height, but in different ways.

4. Strive for balance, not boring sameness. Note how the 8-by-10-foot jute rug (from Surya's CL line) is echoed by the round one on the right. A vintage Aero Studios floor lamp and a fig tree bring height, but in different ways.

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5. Be smart about furniture choices. A tufted chesterfield won't cut it on the coast. This sofa.com number lends slouchy upholstered comfort, while Serena & Lily chairs reference the property's seaside setting. A West Elm pouf provides a casual perch near a Danish Modern teak bar, and a trunk (like this find from One Kings Lane) turns into a coffee table with real storage potential.

6. Introduce an element of surprise. This hammock from overstock.com proves the decor doesn't take itself too seriously.

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Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.