In their first book, “Let’s Get Comfortable,” high-end designers Mitchell Gold and Bob Williams instruct professionals and novices alike on creating the same relaxed, distinctive interior looks they did for the sets of “Sex & the City,” “Friends,” and “The Apprentice.”
What follows are 12 fail-safe steps for arranging a cozy conversation areas from Mitchell Gold and Bob Williams.
Roll out an 8-by-10-foot rug. Start the room’s “first layer” with a sofa that can comfortably accommodate at least four people.
Position the sofa so that only its front legs are on the rug. Let the rug define the conversation area.
Balance the sofa with two chairs in a print whose background complements the sofa fabric. Print upholstery has more visual weight than solid upholstery and helps smaller pieces hold their own.
Use two pairs of throw pillows – smaller ones in the chair print and larger ones in a rich accent color – to link sofa and chairs.
Bring in a coffee table that’s long and low like the sofa, and a side table that’s square like the chairs. You want convenience – flat surfaces near all of the room’s seating.
Break up the room’s low lines with a taller piece. An armoire with a lighter wood inlay could work.
Place something opposite the side table. It could be another side table, but go with the unexpected and put the armoire there instead.
Place a tall lamp on the side table to balance the armoire’s height. Then lessen the focus on the armoire with a unique accent table.
Center a photograph over the sofa. A dark frame can repeat the deep tones in the room’s case goods, while its shape can mirror the chairs. It also helps balance the chairs.
Layer in accessories. Vases on the armoire introduce roundness and pick up colors in the photo and fabrics. A glass vase on the coffee table echoes the glass lamp base.
Bring closure and add seating to the conversation area with two corner chairs with wood legs finished to complement the tables.
Finally, enhance design interest by arranging the chairs in traditional tête-à-tête fashion, or a manner that promotes intimate conversations.
Source: “Let’s Get Comfortable. How to Furnish and Decorate a Welcoming Home,” by Mitchell Gold and Bob Williams.
Staff writer Sheba R. Wheeler can be reached at 303-954-1283 or swheeler@denverpost.com.
