Maureen Davidson’s Chantilly home is the same model as many of her neighbors’. Several of them struggle with the family room, she said, which in her case connects to a blue-toned kitchen. The rooms should have a unifying color scheme and feel sophisticated yet comfortable for her daughter, Colleen, and her friends to use.
By painting the walls a nautical blue and providing hidden storage for toys and movies, designer Jessica Bonness creates a traditional yet lively family room.
Bonness, of JGB Interiors (202-997-6203), is based in the District.
Shift the TV closer to the kitchen so family members can watch it while cooking or having a snack.
Go bold and blue. A navy rug matches the walls, which are Van Deusen Blue by Benjamin Moore.
Make the most of awkward corners. An armchair and floor lamp create a cozy reading nook.
A storage ottoman plays triple duty. Clear it off to use it as extra seating for guests.
Hang a mirror opposite the window to reflect light and to make the room feel larger.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match. The burlap ottoman, brick fireplace and chain-mail table lamp make the room feel fresh and current.
Consider every detail. A star-patterned pillow and striped throw are a subtle nod to the American flag.
Furniture: Chester tufted upholstered sofa in Pebbleweave Oatmeal ($839) and Bursa rug ($499 for 5-by-8-foot rug), both from www.westelm.com; Devon Swivel media cabinet in cream ($399) and castered tufted storage ottoman in burlap ($479), both from www.ballarddesigns.com; Echelon round side table ($399, www.crateandbarrel.com).
Lighting: Sasha floor lamp in bronze ($399, www.roomandboard.com).
Accessories: U.S. Union Jack flag pillow ($105, www.claytongrayhome.com); Nest in Bamboo viscose stripe throw blanket in plum and cream ($140, www.shopninespace.com); Conservatory arch mirror ($349, www.wisteria.com); Artemis bow mirrors ($228 each, www.anthropologie.com); Aidan Gray ”Adrift” prints ($392 for two, www.zincdoor.com).
Arteriors Pierce Antique brass chain-mail glass lamp ($516, www.shopcandelabra.com).
Bamboo wingback chairs in black ($1,575 for a pair, www.belleescape.com).
Gourd table lamp in Luster ($149, www.westelm.com).
Storsele chair in black rattan ($119, www.ikea.com).
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