How to Decorate a Small Den With a Fireplace & Patio Door

Layout and Walls

• Furniture layouts designed to create unobstructed, generous passageways will make a room feel more open and spacious. Avoid large, bulky furniture pieces that tend to overwhelm a room, taking up valuable floor space. Also, lighter wall colors, such as creamy whites or soft beiges, create a fresh, airy feeling and provide a neutral canvas for the rest of your decorating color scheme. Ceilings appear taller when painted white or a shade or two lighter than the wall color.

Fireplace

• A fireplace is a natural focal point in any room and can be an unsightly eyesore or a visual delight. By centering a large picture above your fireplace, you'll add color and interest to the room. Position potted greenery, florals, assorted vases and/or candlesticks atop the fireplace mantel. Place an equal number on each side of the picture to provide balance to your fireplace decor. Substitute a large mirror in lieu of the picture to reflect the room, making it appear larger.

Patio Door

• Adding window treatments to a patio door can enhance your room with texture, warmth and color. Hang draperies high above a sliding patio door to create the illusion of higher ceilings. Choose a color to complement your color scheme. Thermal-backed draperies provide energy-saving insulation. Woven, wood blinds add a modern, natural element to any room. They are designed to accommodate any type of patio door. An optional liner provides privacy while darkening a room. Vertical and horizontal blinds are additional choices for a patio door.

Small Space Ideas

• Punctuate a small den with splashes of color to brighten the room. Toss pillows, area rugs, window treatments and artwork are ideal ways to thread harmonizing color throughout the space. Smaller furniture, such as armless chairs, love seats, cube ottomans and petite end tables provide comfort and function without taking up valuable floor space. Open wall shelves keep books, games and magazines organized and off the floor. A large striped area rug can give the visual illusion of an elongated room while adding comfort, texture and color.