Makeover of the Week: How One Designer Turned a Lifeless Dining Room Into a Nature-Filled Retreat

This room was heavy, dark, and worn,” explains interior designer Heather Fujikawa. “There were oversized window treatments, a nondescript chandelier, yellowish walls—it was definitely time to lighten, brighten, and update this space.”

Before:

"Our vision was to create a room that felt welcoming and happy while keeping the design simple,” notes Fujikawa. “The client loves nature so we tried to incorporate an outdoor feel through the accent wall and furniture choices.”

After:

“Trim detail was added to the sides and base of the window to give the walls more substance and create a bit of formality,” says Fujikawa.

What Changed:

• Color theme: This room is off the entry and sets the color tone for the entire house, including warm neutrals, blues, blushes, and touches of green. 
• Wallpaper:  The nature-themed wall mural brings the outdoors in, with butterflies, birds, and flowers. 
• Ceiling light: Star details on the brass pendants add a whimsical touch to the room’s only light source.
• Dining table: The room was long in length so a rectangular farmhouse table that seats eight replaced a circular six top, providing room for more guests.
• Dining room chairs: Grey Chippendale chairs play nicely with two formal upholstered end chairs. 
• Window treatment: Natural woven shades work with the light tones throughout the room.
• Wall prints: Blue butterflies pick up on the colors in the wallpaper while the brass picture frames play off the ceiling fixture.
• Floor: An ivory 8’ x 10’ natural weave rug, with border trim and tassels, adds a layer of warmth to the newly stained chestnut floors.

Shop the Look:

Schumacher Brighton Pavilion Wallpaper Price upon request

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Circa Lighting Etoile Linear Chandelier $755.00

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Restoration Hardware 17th Century Monastery Rectangular Dining Table $1,795.00

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Restoration Hardware Stewart Fabric Armchair $800.00

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