Ep 7. '70s Family Room Update

In the seventh episode of season 1 of Decorating Cents, titled "70s Family Room Update," viewers are taken on a journey back in time as the team tackles the challenge of transforming a dated 70s family room into a modern and stylish space. Host Joan Steffend and designer Sasha Andreev work their magic to bring this room into the present while honoring its original character.

As the episode begins, we are introduced to the Thompson family, who have been living in their house for over a decade. The family room, once a cozy gathering space, now feels tired and stuck in the past with its dark wood paneling, shag carpeting, and clashing patterns. The Thompsons express their desire for an updated room that better suits their family's needs and style.

Joan and Sasha begin by discussing their vision for the makeover. They want to create a room that feels fresh and inviting, while still paying homage to the 70s aesthetic that the family loves. The key challenge lies in finding the right balance between modern elements and retro influences to achieve a cohesive and timeless look.

To kick off the transformation, Joan and Sasha start by addressing the room's biggest eyesore: the wood paneling. They decide to keep some of the wood paneling intact to retain the room's original charm, but also paint a portion of it white to brighten up the space. This subtle change instantly modernizes the room and creates a more open and airy feel.

Next, the duo turn their attention to the outdated carpeting. They decide to replace it with a more contemporary, low-pile carpet in a neutral color. This not only updates the room's overall look but also provides a practical and durable flooring option for the family.

With the major structural changes complete, Joan and Sasha move on to the furniture and accessories. They carefully select pieces that blend modern design with retro vibes. A sleek, modular sofa in a neutral tone becomes the focal point of the room, complemented by funky accent chairs in vibrant 70s-inspired patterns. The furniture arrangement is optimized to create a cozy seating area that encourages conversation and connection.

To add warmth and texture, Joan and Sasha incorporate various decorative elements. They hang colorful abstract art on the walls, scatter plush throw pillows and blankets across the furniture, and introduce a vintage-inspired area rug that ties the room together.

Lighting plays a crucial role in any room makeover, and this episode is no exception. Joan and Sasha replace the outdated ceiling fixtures with modern, recessed lighting to provide a bright and inviting ambiance. They also incorporate table and floor lamps to create layered lighting, allowing the family to adjust the atmosphere to their liking.

Finally, the designers add the finishing touches with carefully curated accessories. Airy curtains in a neutral tone soften the windows, while shelves are adorned with curated family photos, cherished trinkets, and retro-inspired knick-knacks. These personal touches not only reflect the Thompson family's personality but also add character and depth to the overall design.

In the end, the Thompson family is thrilled with the transformation of their 70s family room. They now have a space that embraces the best of both eras: the comfort and nostalgia of the 70s combined with the modern style and functionality of today. With its updated look and inviting atmosphere, the room has become the heart of the home, where the family can relax, entertain, and make lasting memories.

Tune in to Decorating Cents' "70s Family Room Update" to witness the amazing before-and-after transformation and gather inspiration for your own design projects. This episode proves that with the right mix of creativity, vision, and a touch of nostalgia, any space can be transformed into a stylish and functional sanctuary.