In the past year, I am seeing a surge in the popularity of sunrooms, beyond the geographical areas where they’ve been a popular part of home design. Most sunrooms though still follow traditional styling or venture into the tropicaI; which isn’t for everyone. I wanted to do a more modern chic version of a sunroom, so that’s why I decided to create this latest Joshua’s Top Picks - The World Traveler Sunroom.
Photo credit: JJones Design Co. .
The world traveler concept was inspired by pieces from around the world, creating an eclectic look while also mixing in the vibe of a greenhouse. This greenhouse architectural style is a trend I’m noticing on new sunroom build-outs. I went with a monochromatic look with black structural elements, lots and lots of windows, including the ceiling, and white painted brick for texture. An abundance of potted plants lends a lush feeling. Just make sure to select plants that match the lighting conditions of your particular space.
Photo credit: JJones Design Co.
Plants are a particular form of design magic as they can fill space without making it feel cramped or crowded, add visual interest, allow you to play with height levels in the space, and filter light. In this room, they are great to layer into corners to fill dead space so you aren’t tempted to feel the need to push furniture up against walls.
Photo credit: JJones Design Co.
Who doesn’t want a little bit of extra storage? I added in a sideboard piece across from the sitting space. Sideboards and storage don’t have to be boring and it’s easy to find options with interesting details to have it make it’s own impact in the space. I want it impactful and carry it’s weight, anchoring the side of the room, but I didn’t want it distracting from some of the other standout pieces in the room, so I selected a light wood with a little bit of interesting detail that goes well with the flooring choice. Since this wall is solid brick, I selected a mirror to reflect back some of the natural light coming in from all the windows just opposite, framed in a fun mosaic tile pattern, and mixing decor and art with a nod to Paris and Asia.
Photo credit: JJones Design Co.
For the sitting area I wanted to be have fun with colors and texture and the eclectic nature of the design is perfect to get away from matchy-matchy furniture selections. I decided to go with light colors in leather and tones of teal for the space to cool all the warm green and wood tones instead of create a riot of color as I wanted this a relaxing space. This sunroom layout was ideal for a sofa grouped with two accent chairs and coffee table in a raw wood organic format that lends it’s warm wood tones to the greenhouse vibe. The seating allows for group conversation, stretching out for a nap on the sofa, or throwing your feet up on the pouf as you relax in the plush fabric chair to read a book.
Photo credit: JJones Design Co.
The beauty of this kind of space is for you to add your own personal touch with items from your travels. I added in a Moroccan style hanging lantern light and a striking piece from photographer Drew Doggett’s "Desert Song: Compositions of Kenya" series. The sling armchair ties in the leather, wood, and brass elements found elsewhere in the room.
The bottom line is to have fun in a sunroom. Take advantage of that light and at the least fill it with plants and then go wild with your design! If you’re inspired by this sunroom or any of the pieces selected, you can shop the look yourself by clicking on any of the images below..
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