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Oh, what a delightful transformation this room has undergone! As a professional interior designer, I always love breathing new life into spaces that have so much character but need a fresh start. Let me walk you through what we've done here, step by step, in a way that paints a clear picture.

When I first stepped into this room, it was like stepping back in time—but not in the most charming way. The walls were covered in a busy, faded green wallpaper with intricate patterns that had seen better days, giving the space a heavy, dated feel. The ceiling was a real eyesore, sagging and peeling in spots, which made the whole room feel a bit neglected and dim. Furniture-wise, there was an old pinkish sofa piled with mismatched green pillows, a worn armchair that looked like it had stories to tell, a small wooden side table cluttered with odds and ends, and a round ottoman that didn't quite tie things together. The beautiful original wood trim and that stunning stained-glass window were hidden gems, but they were overshadowed by the clutter and disrepair. Overall, it was cozy in a vintage sort of way, but it screamed for an update to make it feel inviting and modern without losing its soul.

My goal was to honor the room's historic bones while creating a light, airy retreat that's perfect for relaxing or entertaining. We started from the top: repairing and smoothing out that damaged ceiling, then giving it a clean, white finish to open up the space and let natural light bounce around. The walls got a complete makeover too—we stripped away the old wallpaper and painted them a crisp, neutral white, which instantly brightened everything and highlighted the rich wood door and trim that we carefully preserved.

For the furniture, I opted for a fresh, understated vibe. Out went the bulky old sofa, and in came a sleek light gray one, softened with plush throw pillows in soft whites and a cozy plaid blanket for that touch of warmth. We added a charming whitewashed coffee table in the center, styled simply with a stack of books, a vase of fresh greenery, and a few thoughtful accents to keep it functional yet elegant. Flanking it are two modern armchairs in a subtle gray, with clean lines and wooden legs that nod to the room's original craftsmanship. A large jute rug anchors the seating area, adding texture and a natural, earthy feel underfoot, while a tall floor lamp provides soft, ambient lighting without overwhelming the space.

To bring in some life and personality, we introduced a lush fiddle-leaf fig plant by the window, which thrives in the natural light streaming through those sheer white curtains—we kept the original window's charm but updated the drapes for a lighter touch. And on the wall, a simple framed landscape painting adds a subtle focal point, drawing the eye without competing with the room's newfound serenity.

Now, the after is a breath of fresh air: a calm, welcoming living space that's modern yet timeless, blending the home's historic elements with contemporary comfort. It's the kind of room where you can curl up with a book or chat with friends, feeling relaxed and inspired. If this sparks any ideas for your own space, I'd love to hear more!