Transforming a living room into a vibrant and inviting space is always an exciting project. Whether you're working with a blank canvas or a room in need of a refresh, there are countless ways to inject personality, warmth, and style. In this post, we’ll share how we transformed a lifeless living room on Seventh Street into a bright and lively space, incorporating unique design elements like a faux brick wall, new window treatments, and beautiful molding to bring back the house’s original, historic, New Orleans charm. Get ready for some serious living room design inspiration!
The Power of Colorful Living Room Design
When it comes to designing a living room, color plays a central role in setting the tone of the space. Our goal for this transformation was to create a comfortable, visually engaging room that would feel inviting and vibrant, without overwhelming the senses. By carefully selecting a palette of warm whites with pops of color everywhere, we were able to create a room that balances energy with relaxation.
But the magic lies in the details — like adding texture, architectural accents, and strategic pops of color. Let’s dive into the key design updates that made this living room shine!
Faux Brick Wall: Adding Character and Texture
The living room originally had an empty, somewhat flat wall that felt like an opportunity waiting to be seized. A feature wall was the perfect way to introduce texture and visual interest, and a faux brick wall was the ideal choice.
Faux brick panels are a great way to achieve the timeless appeal of exposed brick without the cost or complexity of installation. We chose a subtle whitewashed brick design to keep the space feeling light and airy while adding rustic charm. The textured wall became the perfect backdrop for artwork and other decorative elements, making the room feel both cozy and stylish.
Beautiful Molding Around Windows: Elevating the Details
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to elevate a room’s design is by enhancing its architectural features. In this case, the living room windows had no molding — just basic, functional frames that lacked character. By adding beautiful crown molding around the windows, we brought a sense of sophistication and polish to the space.
The clean lines of the molding paired perfectly with the contemporary feel of the faux brick wall, creating a seamless blend of classic and modern styles. The addition of the molding also helped draw attention to the windows, which were previously overlooked, allowing natural light to shine even brighter and fill the room with warmth.
Bright Window Treatments: A Pop of Color
To bring even more life into the room, we chose window treatments that would not only frame the view but also add a burst of color to the space. The bright window treatments — in a rich teal hue — provided a striking contrast against the neutral tones of the faux brick and the soft white molding. The bold choice of color immediately draws the eye, creating a focal point that energizes the entire room.
By choosing a fabric with subtle texture and a bit of sheen, we were able to add a layer of visual depth without overpowering the design. The combination of these vibrant curtains with the brick wall and moldings gave the room an eclectic, lived-in charm that felt fresh yet timeless.
Why These Design Choices Work
The beauty of this living room transformation lies in the harmony of contrasting elements. The industrial, raw look of the faux brick wall is softened by the classic elegance of the molding, while the pop of color from the window treatments keeps the space feeling contemporary and playful.
Together, these design choices create a space that feels both dynamic and cohesive. The rich textures and subtle contrasts elevate the overall aesthetic, making the living room feel more comfortable, stylish, and inviting.
Key Takeaways for Your Own Living Room Transformation
If you're looking to refresh your own living room, here are a few tips based on this transformation:
Add Texture: Whether through a faux brick wall, wood paneling, or a textured rug, incorporating texture into the design can instantly elevate the space.
Enhance Architectural Features: Don’t overlook the power of moldings and trim. Adding crown molding, baseboards, or window treatments can completely change the vibe of a room.
Don’t Be Afraid of Color: Bright window treatments, colorful pillows, or a bold accent wall can make a huge impact. The key is to balance it with neutral tones so the space doesn’t become too overwhelming.
Create a Focal Point: Whether it’s a feature wall, a piece of art, or a stunning pair of curtains, having a central visual element gives the room focus and personality.
Living room design doesn’t have to be complicated to be stunning. By incorporating a few key elements — like texture, stylish moldings, and colorful — you can transform your living room into a space that reflects your personal style and makes a lasting impression.
If you’re ready to tackle your own living room transformation, take inspiration from this Seventh Street living room and experiment with these ideas in your space. With the right touches, you can create a room that’s both functional and fabulous!
Are you feeling inspired? Ready to get started on your own living room makeover? Share your thoughts or tag us in your own design transformation — we’d love to see how you bring color and creativity to your space!
“After” Photography by Gue Interior Photography