We began our design process with our dear Sarasota client’s completely empty new-build Greatroom, and followed these steps to transform it into the welcoming heart of the home.
As the TV was to be the focal point, we created an attention grabbing stage behind it. There are many options for design drama in this area, and we selected a herringbone millwork pattern in a contrast paint color, from ceiling to baseboards. Check out the “before” pic of blue tape on the wall that helped us design the width of the millwork as it related to our credenza. To light up the TV side of the room we added slim floor lamps that enhanced the show. The stage was now set!
If your Greatroom is wide and large, consider as we did, a customized sofa “pit”, a sectional sofa with 3 sides of seating. Note the tape on the floor in the “before” pic that shows the sectional size. This is a good trick for determining rug sizes as well. For an appropriately sized coffee table we placed 2 rectangular ones side by side. (Sometimes we use 2 square coffee tables next to each-other for the perfect coffee table size.) A comfortable walking space between the sofa and coffee table edges is between 15” and 22”.
I often recommended a neutral colored sofa because the pillows and throws can be easily changed to invite a new color story when the mood hits. If you have an accent chair or 2, use the opportunity to contrast your chair fabrics rather than trying to match your sofa color.
If your bland sofa back is visible for all the world to see, enhance it, as we did, with sofa back console tables with accessories to delight the eye. If your sofa back is exceptionally wide, place 2 console tables behind it, side-by-side. These console tables also invite floorlamps that give ambient and human height lighting. Recessed ceiling lights are not human height!
Finish your room with pillows, wall art, and throws in colors that coordinate or contrast, that please your heart. A ceiling fan or chandelier in the appropriately sized diameter for the room is next, followed by window treatments. Always remember to add organic accessories like plants, leaves, flowers, twigs or shells, to remind us of nature and our humanity.
The transformation of this Sarasota Greatroom is a perfect example of how thoughtful design can turn an empty space into the heart of a home. From the bold millwork backdrop to the cozy sectional pit, every detail was carefully considered to create a space that’s both stylish and functional.
Now, imagine your own Greatroom—what story does it tell?
Does it reflect your personality, invite conversation, and make you feel at home the moment you walk in?
If not, let’s change that.
Check out the before-and-after photos for a dose of inspiration, and if you’re ready to bring your dream space to life, we’d love to help. Whether you need a full transformation or just a few expert tweaks, reach out, and let’s create a space that feels unmistakably you.
