Inspiration from One of Sunset's Idea Houses

Interiors of Sunset's Menlow Park, Calif. Idea House

Living to dining: gallery wall
All Photos: E. Spencer Toy

Inspiration: A varied collection of art has more impact when grouped together.

Set against a light-colored niche wall in the dining room, this salon-style installation by Lost Art Salon is a focal point and an irresistible conversation starter.

Steal this idea: Instead of painting an accent wall, create a quilt of artwork and hang the pieces from the ceiling to the baseboard.


Living room: add drama with color
Inspiration:Benjamin Moore's steel blue Flint (AF-560) creates a distinctly elegant mood in the living room. Affordable curtains from Ikea add a light, soft touch.

Steal this idea: In a room with lots of light, try experimenting with a dark paint. Paint the ceiling a lighter color to bring the eye up and heighten the space.


Kitchen: get a layered look
Inspiration: The crisp clean design of this blue and white kitchen is layered with pops of energetic color. The red drum pendant from Croft & Little illuminates the bamboo island top from Teragren. Glass-front cabinets provide a showcase for a collection of colorful pottery.

Steal this idea: The bamboo-topped table on casters tucks under the island and can roll away for use throughout the house or outside. Mixing up the chair styles adds casual appeal.

Source: Sunset