Crystal Pace didn’t need two dining areas in her Decatur ranch home, so she converted an area meant for a dining room table and buffet into her “conversational room.”
Now, she and her guests can nibble on appetizers while relaxing in the room, which has four turquoise wingback chairs and a signature accessory selected by Pace – an oversized vase that was refinished in bronze and gold tones.
“It’s a gorgeous room where you can sit and have finger foods and drinks,” she said.
Snapshot
Resident: Crystal Pace, who works for KPMG
Location: Decatur
Size: About 2,137 square feet, four bedrooms, two baths
Year built: 2001
Year bought: 2013
Contractor: ATO Plumbing Contractors
Architectural style: Ranch
Favorite architectural element: The vaulted ceilings in the kitchen, bedrooms and living room, which Pace said makes the home feel more spacious and increases the natural light. “The vaulted ceilings give the rooms a magnificent feel,” she said.
Interior design style: Modern chic. “I’m not a traditional type of person. I don’t like traditional types of hairstyles, clothing,” she said. “My house looks just like me.”
Design consultant: Knetta Lilly of K. Lilly Interiors
Favorite interior design elements: Using mirrors and vases to accessorize the home, including online finds. “You can get fabulous things off Craigslist and put it together,” she said.
Favorite piece of furniture: An oversized vase from Rooms to Go that John Graves of Apollo Design refinished for Pace. “I fell in love with this vase nine years ago when I first laid my eyes on it. I knew I had to have it,” she said. “I love the size of the vase and it is always a conversational piece when I have guests over. “
Favorite outdoor feature: Privacy fence.
Resources: Furniture from Rooms to Go, World Market, Sam’s Club, Craigslist, bedding from HomeGoods; accessories from Craigslist, At Home (formerly Garden Ridge) and Underpriced Furniture.
Decor tip: It’s all about the accessories. “Your room can still look unfinished if you just focus on sofas, chairs and tables. What brings it all together are your pillows, mirrors, draperies, lighting and unique accent pieces,” she said. “Don’t be afraid to utilize Craigslist, Goodwill and consignment stores for gently used or consigned items when you are on a tight budget. “
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