Small Living Room Update Spring Tour
Today, we wrap up a week-long tour of bloggers sharing their lovely early spring-decorated homes! Come and be the first to see the reveal of my small living room update spring tour!
SMALL LIVING ROOM UPDATE SPRING TOUR – PT 1
Welcome to the Spring Home Tour, hosted by Marty from A Stroll Thru Life!
All week long, bloggers from across the country (and around the world) have been sharing their early spring home decor! Be sure to see the end of this post for all the inspiration, in just about every style!
If you are visiting from Quarters One, welcome! Shand’s lovely spring home has a bit of a coastal vibe. She speaks this So Cal gal’s language!
If you’d like to get to know me better, take a look at my About Page. Be sure to leave a comment, so I can get to know YOU, too!
And welcome to all the MWA fam! I’m so excited to be sharing my living room update with spring touches today!
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Blessed to Be Part of This Home Tour Line-up
I can’t tell you how excited I am to be part of this tour! Like, really excited! You know why?
When I first discovered blogs, I was also introduced to digital Home Tours. You know… like when you are in a lovely neighborhood, full of amazing homes, and they each open their homes for people to come and see their decor? Well, that’s what this home tour line-up is all about, only you get to see them all from the comfort of YOUR cozy home!
But the exciting part is, I remember ‘strolling thru’ (see what I did there?) Marty’s home tour about 5 years ago thinking, “Wow, how fun this would be to create a digital home tour! But I would NEVER be asked to be in one, especially one like Marty’s!”
Well, here I am. Four years later. Truly humbled and honored to be part of Marty’s Spring Home Tour! Who woulda’ thunk? (The Lord, that’s Who! He loves to bless us, even in the small ways!)
Small Living Room Spring Tour 2018
Let’s take a look at what my living area looked like all decked out for spring my very first year of blogging.
Yep… that’s my little living room. With lots of cute little vignettes, big pieces of furniture, and a blown-out window!
My very first spring decorating attempt had me all in a dither… but I did enjoy the room at the time. 🙂
But as years go by, styles change… in the world, and in your own life, too!
The living room has had some very small changes through the years, like getting a new rug, adding an accent wall, and swooshing on a fresh coat of paint. But no change has been as big as THIS update!
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Small Living Room Update with Spring Touches
This past fall, I was blessed to spend a week in Lancaster County, PA with my dear friend, Yvonne from StoneGable (she shares her spring home in this tour, too!).
While I was there, we spent some time brain-storming about some changes for My Wee Abode. Yvonne’s style and design flair have always been a faves of mine!
So when I got home, I got right to it… though, admittedly, it has taken a bit of time to implement all the changes. And I’m still waiting on some items to be delivered for the finishing touches.
But enough talk… let’s get to the update of my tiny living room (10 x 10′ to be exact!)
So… almost everything has changed… except that dang blown-out window! I know how to fix this… I just gotta start doing it! 😉
Out with the BIG… Furniture, that is!
So… besides the whole room being arranged differently, the large dresser-turned-media-console is now gone, as well as the window bench, which had doubled as my ‘faux mantel’.
The large pieces were wonderful for storage, but I was really tired of them taking up so much space, and giving the room a smaller-than-it-even-was look.
Bring In Furniture That Has Less Visual Weight
Ivar Cabinet Hack
Where the sofa used to be, I now have an IKEA Ivar cabinet ‘hack’ (DIY coming soon).
This piece stands high, giving less visual weight to the room. The bottom shelf gives a wonderful place for seasonal decor, and I can decorate the top of the cabinet, as well (once I figure out exactly WHAT I want to add to the top). Behind the caned cabinet doors are several shelves that are perfect for storage.
New Madison Park Welburn Bench
This new low-back bench is perfect for extra seating, looks great with my sofa (the color is perfect), and sets high enough to place a couple of pretty wire baskets underneath for throw blanket storage.
I’ll be honest… I’m not going to be sitting on this bench for a cozy time reading a book. But it’s perfect for a coffee-visit with a friend. 😉
My Wee Abode’s First Coffee Table
It’s taken me forever (as in 5 years!) to decide on whether or not to have a coffee table in the living room. But after talking with Yvonne, we felt that adding a small coffee table would work great in this small living room update.
Again… because the coffee table sits ‘high’ and has thin, open legs, this was a perfect choice for less visual weight for my tiny living room. And, choosing a round coffee table gave some balance to all the ‘square’ angles of the other pieces in the room.
Don’t be afraid to have smaller walkways between a table and sofas. It actually functions well, and looks great (in my opinion 😉 ).
More Updates and Spring Decor
Along with the new pieces of furniture, I also mounted the TV on the wall.
To be totally transparent… I unplugged all the cords from the TV for this photo. LOL! The plan is to add an open wood shelf underneath the screen to hold my cable box and a few decor items.
The television seems a bit lonely on that ‘large’ wall. Do you think some decor should be placed around the monitor? Leave your thoughts in the comments for me!
The cotton-and-sisal rug that was in the room before was trashed. Good thing it wasn’t expensive. I won’t purchase another cotton rug, unless it’s washable.
This new rug is a winner, and even less expensive than the rug it replaced! And it comes in at least two colors!
Spring Decor Touches
I went very minimal on the spring decor. I’m enjoying the less-cluttered look and clean lines.
Underneath the high cabinet, you’ll find a little spring fern canvas, as well as this wooden link from Hobby Lobby.
Adding some greenery, whether real or faux, just shouts spring, don’t you think?
This arrangement was easy to make and took about 10 minutes.
It was super fun adding decor to a coffee table for the first time at My Wee Abode.
The table has a mirror inset. Again, this helps with giving the room a more airy feel.
Okay… I broke down and had to add a teensy bit of ‘adorable’ with this faux spring chick mold.
These coastal farmhouse beads are a ‘staple’ decor item here at MWA. And they are super easy to make!
Of course, adding a bit more greenery never hurts. This faux boxwood has been used over and over here at the loft. Remember to shop your home before you buy new!
More to Come in the Small Living Room Update and Spring Tour
There are several things that didn’t make it to the reveal… either because they haven’t been delivered or I haven’t decided what I want…
- The decor around and above the window will be removed.
- Curtains have already been purchased, however…
- The curtain rod I ordered has not arrived yet. It’s been lost… twice. Once by two different companies. Not sure it’s going to show.
- Lamps on either side of the sofa, or a tree on one side and lamp on the other… What do you think?
- The rug may need to be moved towards the cabinet a bit more.
- See the console table on the right? That is my ‘office’… I need to finish creating it! 😉
Did you enjoy the reveal, and the tour? I sure loved sharing it with you!
Now be sure to hop on over to Grace in My Space. Sarah is a sweet sister in the Lord, loves coffee, and her style is a mix of… well, be sure to visit her organic modern spring home to find out!
And, be sure to check out all the homes on the tour below!
Monday March 7th Lineup
A Stroll Thru Life – Thrifty and Chic – Chalking Up Success – White Arrows Home – Pink Peppermint Design – Worthing Court
Tuesday March 8th Lineup
Our Southern Home – Cuckoo4Design – County Road 407 – Decor To Adore – RemodelaCasa – Calypso in the Country
Wednesday March 9th Lineup
Whispering Pines Homestead – Up to Date Interiors – The Stonybrook House – DIY Beautify – Southern Home & Hospitality – Dimples and Tangles
Thursday March 10th Lineup
CitrineLiving – Hymns and Verses – 11 Magnolia Lane – StoneGable – Southern Hospitality – This is our Bliss
Friday March 11 Lineup
Grace In My Space – Follow The Yellow Brick Home – Quarters One – My Wee Abode
I love the new layout, furniture and accessories you added. So pretty and thanks for the tour.
Thank you for the kind words, Julia… and for dropping in!
Hi Julie! Beautiful home. I love all the touches of spring. Lovely see your tour.
Thank you so much, Lori. It’s always a work in progress. 😉
You really have been busy. Love your changes and you’ve made a small space live large. I have a small home too, so I know the struggle to make a room chic and comfortable. It was so fun to add you to the tour this season, I look forward to you joining in again.
The room looks so much bigger and open. I think your tv is mounted to high. It should be almost eye level. That you don’t strain your neck by looking up. Great job!!
Thanks for the advice, Mona… I actually have it mounted at the highest point suggested by the ‘experts’. I also have it on an ‘arm’, that allows me to adjust it. Sneaky, right?! 😉
Thank you so much, Marty! It is difficult to make a small space look cozy, and chic… or even classic. 🙂 And the photography is even harder! Thank you, again, for inviting me, and I hope to join again!
Julie! I love the change. I know that you are one busy girl and change is slow (just like for me too). I’m so thrilled for you! Your living room looks so pretty! And you have done a wonderful job putting it together. The “bit of adorable” chicks look very sweet on your pretty new coffee table! You rock, friend!
Thank you, Yvonne… I couldn’t have done it without you… and we’re still not done, right?! Looking forward to the finishing touches and doing some adjustments. 😉 Love you!
Julie! This is BEAUTIFUL! I love the changes, and the room looks so spacious and inviting. I love everything you’ve done with the room. (I like the idea of less visual weight. I learned about that a few years ago in our previous house (when I was calling it “visual space.” haha) Our kitchen was so tiny, so I got a table with a metal base and a clear top, and it opened up the space in my eyes. But, I wish I had thought about visual weight in other ways, too, like how you have the high, more open pieces, and the wire baskets. I’m thinking that IKEA cabinet and coffee table would work perfectly in my family room. I think the tv looks great, as is, but one idea for decor below it might be a row of black and white photos in light wood frames. (I’m not a great decorator, though!) You mentioned you are removing those two pieces on the sides of the window – I really like those, so my vote is to leave them there. 🙂 Great job on the room – you’ve inspired me!
Thank you so much for all the encouragement, and I’m glad you were inspired, too! I love the pieces on the sides of the window, but I will be putting some curtain up there. I’m thinking I may put those with the TV? 🙂
Wow Julie, the changes you’ve made look fantastic, and the room looks so much bigger now! You’re going to have so much fun decorating your new space as the seasons change. I had to laugh at the drawer comment. I find all kinds of flaws when I’m editing my photos LOL!
Thank you, Michelle. I have so much I want to ‘fix’… but I just wanted to be bold and share it. Sometimes you just gotta. However, I have another tour at the end of the month, and the updates may make a tiny appearance. 😉
It’s so beautiful. I love all the touches you made, like the baskets under the couch. One question though: How do you watch the tv when neither couch is facing it?
Hehe… the TV pulls out… I sit on the sofa. I’m usually the only one watching TV. 🙂 I also have an occasional chair that doubles for a desk chair. I just didn’t put it in the tour. One of the details I’m still working on. Thanks for asking, Amy!
Hi!
Your room looks so fresh! I placed similar wall arches on either side of my tv so you may want to see how that would work in your room!
Happy Spring
You mean like the ones on the sides of the window, Laura? That’s what I was thinking, since those will be removed when the curtain rod arrives. Thanks for the idea!
Julie, love all the updates. The room looks so much bigger. The coffee table is a perfect fit in size and shape. How about a side table in the corner between the sofas? People would have a place to sit a drink or a book and you could add a pretty lamp as a focal point. Yes, I would pull out the rug a few inches. Speaking of the rug, it’s awesome. The color and pattern add great punch. Could the TV fit inside the cabinet so both sofas can look at it? Rooms are a work in progress.
Thanks for the tips, Carol. I’ll have to see about the TV. It’s my nemesis. 😉 Once my back heals, I’ll pull out the rug. 😉
Yes, I did enjoy the reveal and the tour! I love the process of decorating a room throughout the years. It’s fun to see how our rooms evolve. You did a fantastic job!
Thank you so much, Cristina… Now to work on the timing of photos… and editing. Ugh! Always more to learn! 😉
Hi Julie,
I love the lighter look. The coffee table is perfect to gather in the whole look. AND good for snacks!!! You are absolutely right about using a round shape with skinny legs. I think by adding the curtains it will make it all cozy. I am a bit concerned about how do you watch TV with it being on a side wall and so high up? It would be great if it fit inside that cabinet but then you would lose valuable storage…I get it. You can get nice cord covers for those annoying cords to hide under. I also like the idea of moving the rug over a bit. I would center it under the window. Please understand I am NO expert AND really being there in person can make a huge difference. It also takes a lot of time and tweaking to get it just right. You will know exactly what is best for you!!!
Thanks, Addie… (and I SEE you!). I already have the cord cover on order… forgot to mention that in my list. And the TV is on an arm, able to swivel and be brought down. So far, it hasn’t been a problem, but I totally understand. And no worries giving advice. I asked, and it looks like everyone is enjoying chiming in, which I love!
I bet you love walking into your new and improved beautiful spring space. I would! Your changes are fantastic. Maybe try only one floor lamp in the corner before adding two. Might keep things more spacious looking. Isn’t it funny how so many designers say put full size furniture in small rooms (and don’t worry about darker paints) but you are living proof that idea doesn’t work. So excited for you. Looking forward to seeing what else you do. Always love hopping with you.
Thanks, Cindy. Everyone has their own opinions and style, and I love that we can all change and ‘evolve’. One thing I didn’t mention was that I usually watch the TV from my desk while I’m blogging. So, it’s really in the perfect spot for me, too! I will try only one floor lamp. Well, maybe I’ll try two, and then one, and then maybe send one back! 😉
Julie I love your new open look. I hung other pictures wit our TV and it kind of blends in. I also got the channel that goes on the wall and covers the cords. Make for a much neater look and is quite inconspicuous.
Thanks, Glenda, for the tips! I already have the cord covers in my cart! Hehe… forgot to put that on my list. Hugs!
Julie,
I am proud of the way you show the love you have for living in your studio loft! You show women everywhere what can be done to make a cozy, relaxing, welcoming and beautifully decorated home. It doesn’t need to be big to be special. I especially like what you have done recently with your bathroom.
You have great taste and it shows!
Laura
Thank you so much, Laura… you are so encouraging. I’m looking forward to adding the finishing touches and changing things a bit! 😉
Julie, first, I would have to love the coffee table since I have the same one in rose gold! The legs allow you to see through and the top is a mirror to reflect the space around you. Love it 😉
Yvonne had great taste and it looks like the two of you collaborated really well together to get a beautifully tailored room.
Thoughts on the tv; maybe some beautiful decals placed around the screen. But I would wait, and finish the window area. This would impact the rest of the room and you may not want to place anything on the tv wall.
Hugs,
Rachelle
I totally agree with you about waiting to add the curtains before adding the decor around the TV. And, I also agree that Yvonne has amazing taste! 😉
Omgoodness, you are so good at this Julie! I love your new living room! I do think the rug needs to be centered in the room to balance and ground the space. The idea of adding two lamps on either side of the sofa is a good one. The coffee table is spot on and that bunny mold is just the cutest! How awesome is it to be invited to join Marty’s home tour!! So Exciting! I’m sharing this post in my All Things Vintage round-up this weekend!
Yes, I agree about the rug… When I laid it down, I realized it… but my back hurt so bad, I figure I better wait! LOL! Thanks for the kind words and the hints! 😉
Beautiful changes Julie, the room breathes better with the smaller furniture. I love the style of your new bench and that little vintage chicks mold is so cute for Spring 🌷🐣
I agree… if feels lighter and ready for more company! 😉
Wow Julie, I am loving all the changes! It looks so pretty and classy! That styled tray with the little chicks is the cutest. You know how I love vignettes!
Congrats on joining the tour! Happy spring!
Thanks, Amber… I think we ALL love vignettes! 😉
Lovely job, my friend! I know redesigning a room takes a lot of time and effort. I love how the rug, furniture, and decor all came together. I never realized you didn’t have a coffee table before. I love it! It especially looks great with your spring vignette of wooden beads and adorable birdies. Pinned!
Julie your room looks fabulous. You are truly maximizing living in a small space. I love the sweet chick mold.
Thanks, Laura… You are so kind!
Julie, your transformation looks lovely! You did a wonderful job putting it all together. I especially like the rug and your new bench. So many pretty things and you are all ready for spring!
Thanks, Kim… always something being updated. I’m definitely moving the rug out a bit… and looking forward to other changes coming!
What a great refresh of your living room! I love the new rug and all your accessories. How nice that Yvonne could give you some ideas…sometimes having fresh eyes on a space can be so helpful. Plus, she has such a great style so you can’t go wrong! Beautiful tour!
Shelley
Yvonne is a dear… and so kind to offer help! I finally got my curtain rod yesterday! Crazy how long things take these days!
Hi, Julie! So glad to see you on the tour! Your home is just lovely! And, don’t be too hard on yourself with the window shots! It’s haaaaard! I have the hardest time with my dining room because of the double doors leading to my porch! I wasn’t able to get a good shot of my table this year because of that!
Thanks for the kinds words, Doreen. It’s crazy how hard it is to photograph… but I know what to do, just need to practice! 😉
Julie you’ve done an amazing job and everything is so well thought out for space!! The coffee table is perfect and the new rug is so pretty. Keep us updated when you get your new items in the room. Beyond thrilled to be on this tour with you and so happy to have you as a blog friend!!
Thank you so much, Kate… It is a work in progress… and I FINALLY had my curtain rod delivered yesterday! Took forever, but that is kind of what happens these days!
Michelle, Your home is so pretty. Hugs and blessings to you,
Nicely done, Julie, I’m a big fan of round coffee tables too, and of keeping them close to the sofa so they are reachable! And YES to greenery (faux for me!) or flowers – it always makes everything that much better!
Thanks, Janet! Your opinion means a lot to me!
Everything looks so beautiful Julie and I love how you added in a little bit of adorable!!
Thank you, dear friend! I’m actually at a stand-still right now… changes are comin’ to MWA! 😉
The new pieces and arrangement look lovely Julie!! I love those little birds on the coffee table. So great to have you on this blog hop!
It was a great tour, Kathy! Love touring with you, too!
I’m glad that you are making changes that you are enjoying, the room looks much better. Lower the TV and hang the matching pieces on each side. I’m looking forward to seeing the curtains you ordered. I’m sure you are much happier.
Thanks, Kay! Actually, there may be a shelf that is going under the TV, so kind of serve as a mantel. I like the idea of decor on either side, for sure! New things are a comin’, so the curtains will need to wait just a bit… but I have everything now! 😉
Thanks for sharing the before and after. What great changes you have made.
Yes, I too, LOVE the little chicks! And I have to agree with you about the rug. I’m guessing that you are going to center it in front of the window, right? Probably a foot or so closer to the cabinet. The idea of an end table and plant sounds fabulous.
Can’t wait to see the finished project. You’re an inspiration to many. 🙂
Thanks so much, Deb. Yes… I have some additional ideas for the rug. Changes are a comin’! 😉 Thank you for the kind words!