Welcome back to another installment of Why This Works… where I show a designed space and talk about why it’s amazing. Today, I am featuring interior designer Thomas O’Brien, who has always been known for his classic, laid back style. I am always drawn to his designs, because they are so livable and real. Today’s guest bedroom he designed for a designer showhouse was featured in Veranda magazine and exudes that casual, classic style that I love!
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This room has that perfect blend of comfortable and stylish. I am always drawn to a four poster bed of any kind and I love that this deep wood stained finish balances so well with the light carpet and ceiling molding. The linen covered walls have that small pattern that also mixes so well with the neutral bedding. I am also a fan of pattern on pattern and it works so well here, with the walls and headboard, because it’s a mix of small and large patterns. If the headboard had a small print design too, it wouldn’t work as well. I always love an animal nod of some kind and this oversized feather print is dramatic and restrained at the same time. A perfect way to approach oversized art/accessories in your home? If it looks too big upon first glance, then it’s perfect! Large art and accessories takes some time to get used to, but makes such a wonderful impact in any room. I also love a good asymmetrical balance when done right and this art print does not have a matching piece on the other side, but rather uses the printed linen covered walls and tall table lamp as its counter balance. A small table lamp is then placed in front of the feather art, so there’s functional lighting, but doesn’t compete with the print. The tufted arm chair and bedside flowers add that feminine touch to the classic, masculine blue the room exudes. Overall, this room works for me!
What are your thoughts???
Hi Amber~~
I think this is a lovely room. I like the patten on pattern, the four poster bed, the contrast of the dark wood against the lighter bedding and carpet. My only complaint? The large print. I think it’s just too large, looks wedged into the space, and makes that wall look unbalanced.
I really enjoy your blog and “Why This Works” posts!
Dawn
Thank you so much for your comment. I’m glad you like the series!
I agree with you completely. Small accessories seem like clutter.
I love this room too but would never have been able to put words to it! Love the mix of pattern. The dark bed and light ceiling. What brave choices this designer made. I love the over sized art but would have never thought to put it in this room. Totally unexpected! Very fresh and different.