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A parlor often showcases a homeowner's best possessions and is a gathering place for family and guests. Parlors were once decorated in a sophisticated, romantic fashion, but as the times change, so do decorating styles. Parlors are now referred to as "living rooms" and the decorating style depends upon the homeowner's taste. To bring a parlor up to date, couple simple, sleek decorating pieces with bold, striking accessories.
Instructions
1. Decide on a color scheme. Choose colors that complement one another. For a modern setting, choose neutral colors for large furniture pieces and bright, bold accessories. Keep the walls neutral so that artwork stands out.
2. Choose a focal point, such as a fireplace, entertainment center or large piece of art.
3. Place a television (if you plan to use one in the room) in a sleek entertainment center or mount it on a wall. Use up-to-date technology, such as a flat screen television with a built-in DVD player.
4. Arrange seating. Select streamlined, low, simple pieces that are upholstered with smooth, sleek fabrics. Arrange the seating in a square shape, with the focal point being one side of the square. Face the couch toward or adjacent to the focal point and place two chairs facing each other, adjacent to the couch or focal point.
5. Place throw pillows on the couch that complement both the couch and bold accessories for the room.
6. Hang drapes and lay an area rug, if desired. Lay the area rug in the middle of the square formed with the seating. Use neutral, tone-on-tone schemes. A neutral palette creates a clean feeling and brings attention to bold artwork and accessories.
7. Position tables in the room. Use tables with simple architecture and interesting materials, such as a stainless steel table with a glass top. Set a small table on either side of the couch and a coffee table in the center of the sitting area.
8. Set a lamp on each of the two small tables. Select lamps with clean lines, a polished finish and top them with shades that complement fabrics in the room.
9. Hang artwork on the walls. Choose pieces that add pops of color to the space and add visual interest to the room.
10. Set trendy, colorful accessories tastefully in the room. Choose items in bold colors, complementing throw pillows, wall art and other fabrics.
11. Hang modern lighting from the ceiling or install a modern fan. Use a hanging lamp with an interesting, sleek shape, such as a large, round paper lamp; or install a three-blade, stainless steel fan.
Tags: focal point, that complement, Arrange seating, bold accessories, entertainment center, pieces that