about the room

When Cristina DePina, principal designer for Alexandria, Va.-based interior design firm CDM & Associates, saw photos of Reiss' living room, she knew her design concept would have to focus on two key points: creating additional space and devising a window treatment that was more flattering than the disheveled drapery he'd been using.

DePina saw a cluttered room with too many shelves and bulky furniture that overpowered the area. To remedy this, she recommended furniture with clean lines.

For seating, DePina suggested a settee (a small sofa) upholstered in chocolate chenille paired with velvet pillows. She placed two armless chairs in chocolate velvet on the opposite side of the room. Also finished in dark brown, are the cocktail tables she placed on either side of the settee -- using a single color scheme, she said, makes the room less "busy." Should Reiss need additional seating, the pillows can double as floor cushions and the cocktail tables as benches.

Reiss' entertainment center, said DePina, is too large for this space. She advised using suspended shelves, which are both functional and decorative. Near the shelves is a flat-screen television with a low console.

The sliding door leading to the balcony is the room's focal point, and DePina felt that Reiss' drapes were an eyesore. She suggested a panel track system, which allows for more light and helps make the room seem larger. This keeps the area around the sliding door from looking messy and maintains the clean, contemporary theme. DePina says the paint color, a warm yellow hue, coordinates well with the furniture and opens up the room.

Pendant lighting fixtures add height, said DePina, offering an alternative to traditional lamps that can add bulk. And the artwork above the settee adds drama and brings together the accent colors used throughout the living room.

audio from the designer

Designer Cristina DePina explains her creative vision.

Editor: Stephanie Beer for washingtonpost.com

chat with the designer

Cristina DePina answered questions and offered decorating advice. Read the transcript.