From Fixer-Upper to Fabulous: A Stunning Living Room Transformation

Welcome back to Hannah’s Happy Home! Today, I’m thrilled to share the complete transformation of our living room, taking you on a journey from its humble beginnings to a warm, inviting space we now love. From heavy textures and outdated finishes to a modern, cozy retreat, this makeover was a labor of love. Let’s dive into the details!

The “Before”: A Blank Canvas with Potential

When we first got the keys to our fixer-upper, the living room was a challenge. The red-painted concrete floors, yellow and red textured walls, and arched doorways felt dark and dated. The fireplace, with its yellowish brick and mixed red tiles, added to the chaos. But beneath it all, we saw the potential for something truly special.

Major Renovations: Setting the Stage

Our first step was tackling the big structural changes:

• Removing Low Walls: We opened up the space by tearing down the low, arched walls.
• Lifting the Ceiling: To create a sense of openness, we raised the entryway ceiling.
• Smooth Walls: Heavy textures were sanded down, replaced with a light, subtle finish.
• Fresh Paint: The walls were primed and painted Agreeable Gray by Sherwin Williams, a soft, neutral shade that instantly brightened the room.
• Lighting Updates: My husband installed can lights in the ceiling, bringing a modern touch and great illumination.

A Fresh Take on the Fireplace

The fireplace received a complete facelift:

• The brick was painted crisp white, blending seamlessly with the room’s palette.
• The red tile surrounding the wood stove was painted black for a sleek, cohesive look.
• A custom faux-wood mantel and beam added warmth and texture, stained to match the ceiling feature we installed.

Floors, Trim, and Final Touches

New flooring was a game-changer, replacing the dated concrete with a warm, inviting finish. My husband then installed all-new trim, giving the room a polished, finished look. Even the old sliding doors got a budget-friendly refresh with black spray paint and new trim—a temporary but effective upgrade.

Furnishing the Space: Modern Meets Cozy

Partnering with Article, we brought in stunning, high-quality furniture:

• Sven Sofas in Birch Ivory: These light gray three-seaters provided a neutral base with a modern aesthetic.
• Oxford Brown Leather Ottoman: A warm, versatile piece perfect for extra seating or a footrest.
• Fenn Chair in Charm Chocolate: A cozy, mid-century style leather chair that became our favorite reading spot.
• Leap Floor Lamp in Black: This sleek addition tied together our cozy corner.

To anchor the space, I chose a 9×12 rug with a rug pad for extra comfort and stability.

Decor Details: Making It Home

The final layer of this transformation was the decor:

• Pillows & Throws: I selected large, comfy pillows in neutral tones, perfect for “karate-chopping” into shape.
• Mantel Decor: While still a work in progress, I styled the mantel with candlesticks and thrifted books, creating a cozy vibe.
• Accessories: Small touches like throws, vases, and a playful cactus added personality to the space.

Before & After: The Big Reveal

The difference is incredible. What was once a dark, dated room is now a light-filled, modern retreat perfect for relaxing, entertaining, and spending time as a family.

What’s Next?

While most elements are here to stay, I’ll continue to tweak decor over time. I’m planning to add a larger canvas or mirror to the mantel and make small seasonal updates.

Your Thoughts?

What do you think of this living room transformation? Share your feedback in the comments, and let me know if you think the cactus stays or goes!

A huge thank-you to Article for partnering on this project. If you’re looking for timeless, high-quality furniture, check out the links in the description to explore their collection.

Stay tuned for more home updates, and thank you for being part of this journey with us!

Warm wishes,
Hannah