LIF Decorating Gurus- need help (w/ pics)

I want to do something with my living room to "warm" it up- lately I am feeling drawn to country/vintage/rustic styles. The house is for sale but we've sort of given up on anyone buying it. In the process we really removed all traces of "us" from the house. Now I want to make it more personal again. This is the only room I am struggling with.

I'm not going to buy new furniture (except a desk). We have a coffee table to match the end table- they have a rustic feel to them and I love them. I want new curtains, but I am not sure what will go. Our St. Lucia map is staying, so I sort of want that to be my inspiration even though I think it contradicts my goal (but it is kind of a vintage-looking map). Unfortunately, we also have to keep the computer in the living room.

Sorry this is so ramble-y! I would like input on accessories- stuff for the walls, mainly, curtains and throw pillows. I think I want to stick with blues and greens. Thanks!

You can see the map in one of the pics- it's really the only thing we have on the walls.






This is the desk I want, or something similar.


And I love these curtains, but they don't go (esp. since they bring in a new color)



They also come in this pattern. Thoughts?


Thanks for any input!

Re: LIF Decorating Gurus- need help (w/ pics)

I love that desk! I would definitely buy it.

I would also think maybe a nice new area rug in a blue/green color scheme and some greenish pillow for the couch would be good.

You never know when someone may buy your house so I wouldn't get anything too "house specific" like something that couldn't be transplanted to a new home.

Re: LIF Decorating Gurus- need help (w/ pics)

I would say the first thing you need to do to warm it up is paint a nice color! Whether for resale or your own enjoyment, that would really make the hugest difference, by far! I would start with a paint color then work on the rest. JMO

Message edited 6/2/2008 10:46:14 AM.

Re: LIF Decorating Gurus- need help (w/ pics)

I also think painting it a slightly warmer color would make a huge difference!! definitely still keep it neutral though- here's a pic I just did using BM wheeling neutral (love this color!!):

(this is before I put the drapes up)


I plan on doing this same color in our LR when we do it over.

I love the paisley drape you posted (not crazy about the floral pattern).

I would suggest getting a few lighter colored pillows for your couch just so they'd stand out more.

that's a really cute desk too!! it looks like it would match your shelving unit too, go for it!!