Transforming an Outdated Living Room Design into a Breathtaking Modern Remodel 

Photography Credit: Peter Rymwid

Transforming an Outdated Living Room into a Modern Masterpiece

Updating a traditional, formal living room into a sleek, modern space that blends warmth with sophistication was the vision behind this comprehensive remodel. RCQ Senior Designer Amanda Arditti led this transformation, delivering a design perfect for both everyday comfort and entertaining. Here’s a closer look at the project’s goals, design process, and the unique challenges faced in turning this living room into a modern showpiece.

Project Goals and Vision

The primary goal was to refresh a traditional, stuffy living room into a contemporary space that feels inviting, cozy, and versatile. By creating a sleek and neutral aesthetic, the RCQ team sought to deliver a room that would seamlessly serve as a family gathering space and a stylish area for hosting guests.

Scope of the Remodel

This project was a full-scale living room remodel, involving every aspect of design. The scope included:

• Refinishing wood floors and selecting new area rugs

• Adding custom trim and millwork to enhance the room’s architectural character

• Installing recessed lighting for overall brightness, along with decorative lighting to define cozy areas within the open layout

• Designing a feature wall with natural wood wallpaper and carefully chosen paint colors for a modern, clean look

• Upgrading the surround sound system to facilitate a better entertainment experience

• Custom designing furniture and window treatments, with select pieces chosen during a personal shopping session with the clients

Each of these elements was chosen to create a space that feels modern and welcoming while remaining timeless.

Phases of the Design Process

The project was completed in structured phases, each contributing to the final transformation:

1. Meet with the Client – An initial consultation was held to understand the client’s specific wants and needs for the space, laying the foundation for the design concept.

2. Take Field Measurements – Accurate field measurements of the existing room were essential to create a detailed and functional floor plan.

3. Create a Floor Plan – Using CAD, a floor plan was developed that included furniture placement, decorative lighting locations, and ceiling/trim concepts to bring the room to life.

4. Subcontractor Meetings – Coordination with subcontractors, including electricians and floor refinishers, allowed the team to gather precise pricing and logistical details.

5. Floor Plan Approval – After approving the floor plan, the clients chose to have RCQ act as their design project manager, overseeing subcontractors and making all final selections for furniture and fixtures.

6. Order Furnishings and Oversee Delivery – The RCQ team handled the ordering of all furnishings and decor, managing delivery and setup to ensure the room achieved its ideal modern look.

Design Highlights

While each phase brought its own rewards, the lighting design was a standout element of the transformation. The addition of recessed lighting added a sense of spaciousness and brightness, while the decorative fixtures enhanced the room’s character and created cozy vignettes. Custom swivel chairs surrounding a marble cocktail table added both comfort and sophistication, embodying the sleek, modern look the clients desired.

Challenges and Solutions

One of the biggest challenges was meeting a tight deadline due to unexpected delays caused by the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. With a freeze on incoming materials from overseas, the RCQ team worked tirelessly to get everything delivered and installed before supply chains were disrupted. Despite these challenges, the team managed to deliver a finished space that met the client’s expectations for a refreshed living room in time for Easter.

A Unique Approach to Design

This project had a unique, hybrid approach, as the clients chose to handle some of their own local furniture shopping. RCQ provided design validation on these pieces, allowing the clients to have a hand in the selection process while still benefiting from professional guidance. The homeowners also brought in some of their own subcontractors, allowing for a collaborative approach that gave them flexibility in deciding where to invest in full design services.

Final Reflections

The transformation of this living room from outdated to breathtakingly modern exemplifies the power of thoughtful design. With a neutral, warm aesthetic and custom details, RCQ created a space that balances function with style, ensuring the living room is as perfect for family time as it is for entertaining guests. Through a blend of custom furnishings, modern lighting, and meticulous attention to detail, this remodel has set a new standard for contemporary living spaces.