10 Classic and Cozy Family Living Spaces

I love light and open family living spaces, especially those with a casually sophisticated design style.

My favorite FAMILY ROOMS typically have a seating area centered around a generous coffee table, natural elements like stone and wood, great lighting, and soft carpeting underfoot.

Big, comfy sofas and arm chairs layered with a lovely throw and a few plump toss cushions help to create a space that's warm, cozy and perfect for spending time with the family.

Images Source

I could see my family sitting back and relaxing in any one of these classic and cozy living spaces.

Which one of these rooms would be a welcoming sight for you the end of a long day?

~ Wendi ~ xo

Bedrooms Designed with Serenity in Mind

Do you have a BEDROOM you long to spend more time in... a tranquil retreat that calls to you at the end of a long day?

These soft and serene master bedrooms are decorated in soothing NEUTRAL SHADES... ideal for a space dedicated to rest and relaxation.

Images via Classic Chic Home on Pinterest

There's a definite calming effect to these subdued and sophisticated BEDROOMS.  Each one is beautifully designed to quiet the mind and rejuvenate the soul.

I suddenly want to spend Sunday in bed... what about you?

Classic Dining Room Decor Update

I have to confess... I'm a TRADITIONAL GIRL at heart.  I love a tailored, classic design style, with a few chic and modern touches thrown in for a bit of sparkle and interest.

I purchased these suede grommet panels almost five years ago when we first moved to our newly built home.  I wanted them to blend in to the existing wall colour, and allow the view to take center stage.

To soften their vertical lines, I made and added simple tiebacks from leftover fabric.  The look is a bit more traditional, but without appearing too formal or stuffy.  What do you think?

I also made a few changes to my dining room tablescape.  This is my lovely new orchid.  Our home has at least one live plant in every room.  For me, fresh flowers and greenery make a space so much more inviting.

Even though the pics are terrible (the sun refuses to come out and play), I wanted to share these little updates with you.  The space feels softer and more elegant now.  Isn't it funny how small changes can make us feel happy inside?

As a Mommy's Day gift, my son and hubby are installing crown moulding in the kitchen, dining room and living room for me.  I can't wait!

Have you made any small changes in your home lately?  I hope they make you feel happy, too!

Wendi xo

Sharing Decor Inspiration at Haus Design

Today, I have the pleasure of guest posting at Haus Design.  Barbara's away on an amazing vacation in Asia.  She'll then be returning to settle in to her new hometown of Seattle, Washington.  I hope she's having a wonderful time!

Barbara asked that I share with her readers some design inspiration on the classic beauty of decorating with small statues and sculpture in the home.

I hope you'll stop by Haus Design and check out my feature post.  Be sure to leave a comment for Barbara...  she's looking forward to reading them when she returns home!

8 Ideas for Adding Classic Style with Sculpture

Sculptural busts and figures have been an integral part of classic decor for centuries.  A beautiful piece of sculpture adds instant character, dimension and interest, and when artfully displayed, makes a striking design statement.

A home library is a natural location for showcasing artwork.  This large scale bust offers a stunning contrast to the graphic window frames and cleverly draws the eye through the room to the view beyond.

(Katie Lee Joel)

Matthew Patrick Smyth has created a masterpiece of light and shadow by layering handsome sculptures on heavy, wood columns against a simple, mirrored backdrop.  The skillful application of balance and symmetry adds a sense of formality to the space.

(Matthew Patrick Smyth)

A stately roman statue enhances the neo-classical design of this museum-inspired sitting area.  A second oversized bust finished in a teal glaze softly repeats the accent colour in the room, offering an unexpected modern aesthetic.

(via Popular-Real-Estate)

The soft silhouette of a Greek Goddess blends harmoniously with the beautiful architecture in this elegant and eclectic dining space.  Its generous height is a perfect compliment to the room's soaring vertical lines.

(via Decor Pad)

Carolyne Roehm has introduced two miniature busts to emphasize the classic style of this gracious front room.  Small replicas of sculptural art pieces are an inexpensive way to introduce a sense of history into a traditional design plan.

(Carolyne Roehm)

A small scaled body sculpture is juxtaposed against a tall, modern pedestal, creating an interesting level of dimension in this edgy and elegant space.  An abstract canvas and two lacquered horse figurines add to the room's highly unusual art collection.

(via Architectural Digest)

The regal presence of a grand art sculpture articulates the impressive atmosphere in this well appointed library.  Gorgeous antique furniture pieces add substance and character in keeping with the room's period style.

(Barrie Dixon)

With options available at a variety of price points, the integration of sculpture in a home is an elegant, and affordable design choice.

Consider adding an element of history to your decor with a classic art sculpture that beautifully conveys your own personal sense of style.

Unique and Inspiring Kitchen Island Ideas

My inspiration file is filled with images of white kitchens with islands.  I love the timeless elegance of a white kitchen, especially when a unique ISLAND is added into the design.

My own white kitchen is an example of the results that can be achieved when working with a very small budget.

We angled the ISLAND to aid in traffic flow, and add visual interest to the space.  The mahogany finish is repeated in the buffet and flooring, providing definition and contrast.   

White kitchens with dark islands continue to grow in popularity.  This ISLAND has a second sink and a cantilevered breakfast bar - practical choices for a busy family. 

A butcher block ISLAND is one possible option for a kitchen with a narrow footprint.  It serves as a convenient prep area, and provides extra storage for large bowls and cookware.

An L shaped island provides the backrest for this charming banquet, providing ample seating and work space in one pretty package.

This ISLAND is an unconventional alternative for those who love to host large dinner parties.  An additional counter surface during the day, it easily transforms into a fabulous buffet table in time for evening entertaining.

If space is limited, the kitchen table can function as extra work space between meals.   The upholstered dining chairs are an unexpected and sophisticated design choice, preventing the heavy table from appearing too utilitarian. 

When space isn't an issue, dual ISLANDS are the ultimate in luxury.  Different wood finishes provide contrast, while repeated details in the cabinetry create a cohesive flow throughout the room.

This kitchen also houses two ISLANDS.  The round serving table is creatively designed to appear like a standing piece of furniture, subtly echoing the curves found in the glass cabinet doors.  

The ISLAND is an opportunity to personalize and customize your space, and can be the difference between a pretty kitchen, and a pretty amazing kitchen!

What does your dream ISLAND look like?