AI helped me redesign my room for free!

As a professional interior designer with a passion for transforming spaces into timeless havens, I was thrilled to take on this living room project. The goal was to evolve it from a bold, retro-inspired retreat into a serene, elegant oasis that feels both inviting and sophisticated—perfect for modern living while honoring the room's inherent charm. Let me walk you through the before and after, painting a picture of the journey we took.

**Before the makeover,** this room was a vibrant nod to the 1970s, bursting with warm, earthy energy. The walls were clad in rich wood paneling that gave off a cozy, cabin-like vibe, paired with striking orange-striped curtains framing the sliding glass doors to the balcony. A plush, swirling shag rug in fiery oranges and browns anchored the space, evoking that groovy, laid-back era. Furniture included a mustard-yellow sofa, a pair of armchairs in earthy tones—one in a woven rattan style with an orange cushion—and a wooden coffee table that felt right at home with the vintage TV console. Overhead, a simple pendant light with geometric orange shades hung like a funky chandelier, and potted plants added a touch of greenery. It was fun and nostalgic, but it could feel a bit overwhelming and dated for everyday relaxation.

**After the transformation,** we've elevated the space into a light-filled sanctuary that blends classic elegance with contemporary ease. We kept the beautiful wood paneling on the walls for its warmth and texture but softened the overall palette to soothing neutrals—think soft beiges, grays, and subtle blues—to create a sense of calm and openness. The heavy orange curtains were swapped for sheer white ones that gently filter the natural light from the balcony, making the room feel brighter and more connected to the outdoors.

At the heart of the room, we replaced the bold shag rug with a striped one in calming blue and white tones, which adds subtle pattern without overpowering the space. The seating arrangement got a refined upgrade: the sofa remains a comfortable focal point but now in a soft gray upholstery with plush pillows for that cozy touch. We introduced a pair of elegant armchairs with delicate floral patterns and cabriole legs, bringing in a whisper of French country charm, and positioned them to encourage conversation. The coffee table evolved into a graceful round pedestal style in white, topped with fresh flowers for a pop of life.

Lighting was key to the glow-up—we installed a sparkling crystal chandelier that catches the light beautifully, replacing the retro pendant and adding a touch of glamour without going overboard. The TV console was updated to a sleeker, lighter wood piece, flanked by tall lamps with crisp white shades for balanced illumination. We retained the potted plants but styled them more intentionally, adding framed artwork and a ornate mirror on the walls to reflect light and expand the sense of space.

The result? A room that feels fresh, airy, and effortlessly stylish—ideal for unwinding with a book, hosting friends, or simply enjoying the view. It's proof that with thoughtful updates, you can honor a space's roots while making it feel brand new. If you'd like tips on replicating this look or tweaking it for your own home, I'm all ears!