I’ve recently updated a client’s dining room by switching out lamps, chandelier, and wall art, and I wanted to share the transformation with you. I’m gratefuly she let me share with you because this room went from early 2000’s dark to fresh 2021 crisp with the switch of a few items.
Before
Here is the dining room “before” photo. When the client asked for my help, she told me she didn’t want to change much. She asked what could be switched out to make it feel current. Knowing that several things had to remain the same (the table and chairs, the wallpaper, the buffet, the mirror, and the drapes), I got to work on what coud be switched out: lamps, chair fabric, wall art. Initially, the client did not want to change the chandelier.
My initial thoughts were the the buffet lamps were too skinny and the shades were too dark. Two design lessons for your here. If you have these skinny buffet lamps from twenty years ago or so in your home, it’s time to update them. If you really want a skinny buffet lamp, go for something like these gold bamboo lamps here. Second lesson; there’s an appropriate place for a black lamp shade. I’m not particularly found of it because I feel like it can be very heavy on an item when the purpose of the lamp is to bring light; it seems as if it’s the opposite of what we want to do. There are times when a black lamp shade can work, but in this room with beautiful seafoam damask wallpaper and blush pink in the rugs and drapes, it felt too heavy.
Wall Art Update
You’ll notice the large chunky picture in the right of the before photo. This super ornate frame dates a space. If you’re going to have large art, go for a clean and simple gold frame. Your local frame shop can help you, or if you have standard size art, go for this 3″ gold frame.
We replaced the bulky art with a beautiful, majestic Asian screen. This truly added chinoiserie flair to the space (the living room across the hall has gorgeous chinoiserie touches). For extra panache, we added these oriental wall hangers to the top. It’s the icing on the cake!
On the opposite wall, we added this gold bamboo framed chinoiserie bird and botanical print. The colors were perfect in the room! See how the pinks tie in with the drapes to the left! I really like how the elongated piece plays up the ceiling height, too.
Updated Lighting
You can tell from the previous photos, that we completely switched up the lamps! How amazing are these blush ceremic lamps?! They add the perfect modern touch that feel fresh.
That’s the client’s china that we propped on display. I love how the tropical mountain scene of a land far away is resembled on the salad plate; just like in the screen on the wall!
The chandelier was replaced as well! We made all the changes and then she decided it was time for something fresh. It’s a gorgeous piece that really finishes the space.
This chandelier comes in several sizes. It’s an amazing option that works well in traditional spaces, but still feels fresh with a modern touch. The limited amount of crystals add just enough opulance without being too much.
Finishing Touch
Rather than one table centerpiece, we opted for two modern ginger jars. These are from Lo Home and come in a variety of styles. Here are a few options we looked at for this space below. You can also order sample ceramics so you can be sure you have the right color for your home!
We also updated the chair fabric. The green and pink stripe was also on the drapes and I suggested we bring in a new pattern. I love a leopard pattern because it adds a modern touch. Leopard is also the best upholstery pattern; it’s spotted. If you get a spot on it, it just blends in!
This is a cut velvet fabric and is available locally at Carolina Fabrics. I love how in it’s deepest part there’s a little bit of green, but also a beautiful sheen to the fabric.. Leopard is also a great way to add pattern without fighting other current patterns in the room. It doesn’t clash with the rug, but it still adds more interest than a plain old solid could.
So I clearly have this thing about blue and white leopard. It’s always the answer. You can read about my blue and white swivel rocker chairs in a blue and white leopard here (available for purchase) and more about the whimsical blue snow leopard table skirt here (available for purchase).
How Can I Help You?
If you’ve been wanting to update your space, but don’t know how to do it, please contact me. My specialty is working with what you have and adding in new (and old… I am a vintage dealer, after all!) items to give it that updated, fresh look. The design rate is $85/hour and here is an info card that I give to all my initial clients so they know what to expect. If I can help you with your home, please send me an email!
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