I thought I would kick off the new year with some design inspiration for great rooms.  By sharing before and after pictures, you can see the potential an older room can have.

I remember house hunting in the past and seeing outdated living areas.  This was pre-Pinterest and internet when my design inspiration came from magazines and model homes.  I still enjoy my magazines and especially love when they feature one of my favorite designers, Nate Berkus.  Below you will see before and after pictures of Nate’s living room featured in Architectural Digest.

These seven great rooms take on a whole new look.   Which one is your favorite?

Eclectic Living Room Redo

Nate is a genius at mixing old with new as you can see in this Architectural Digest feature.  By redoing his fireplace with a 19th-century mantel and flanking his fireplace with metal and glass doors, the room oozes with character.  Be sure to visit AD to see the rest of his home.

Before via Architectural Digest

After via Architectural Digest

Painted Wood Beams and Trim

I am a fan of painted wood so this remodel is right up my alley.  Sebring Design Build painted not only the wood but also the fireplace.   Be sure to click on the link to see the rest of their remodel.

via Sebring Design Build

Painted and Stained Wood Combo

I love the combination of painted wood trim and dark wood beams in this living room found at Dear Lillie Studio.  Visit Lillie’s blog to see the rest of her remodel.  Be sure to check out her stairs!  By painting the risers, she brightened up the stairway!

via Dear Lillie Studio

Striking Stacked Stone Fireplace

Color and texture made a difference in this living space.  The fireplace was updated with stacked stone and a rustic wood mantel.  The flanked bookcases were painted a warm gray to tie in the stacked stone.

via Pinterest

Coffered Ceiling Adds Character

The darker floors and a coffered ceiling give this room a whole new look.  The darker floors add richness and the ceiling adds architectural interest.

Pinterest

Goodbye 80’s Great Room

This great room looks fresh and modern with new stonework around the fireplace and painted wood beams and trim.  Visit Sterling Development Corporation for more inspiration.

via Sterling Development Corporation

Stunning Fireplace Feature

I love brick fireplaces and even have one in my great room.  Ours is painted off white.  This fireplace takes on a whole new look with stacked stone.  The room also has a dramatic makeover with the kitchen opening up to the great room.

via Lovely Spaces

I’m curious – – which of these great rooms would you like to call home?

More Design Inspiration

For more inspiration, head on over to these posts:

Clever Storage Solutions Behind Closed Doors

10 More Clever Remodeling Ideas for Your Home

Curb Appeal – 8 Stunning Before & After Home Updates