Maryanne's Family Room

Hi Christine,
I sent you an email with pics a week or so ago and wanted to follow up with some more questions. See my response here. I was on the internet and found a couple of items for my family room that I liked. I wanted to run them by you and get your advice.

The first is a fireplace mantel beam that I liked. It would look better than the existing and bring out some of the dark colors of my kitchen cabinets.
http://www.fauxwoodbeams.com/beams_timber.php

I hate to tell you my opinion about this without seeing it in person- but let me tell you my reservations. I like using faux wood on the floor (amtico is one of my favorite products)- and on the ceiling, but right at eye level -- I am very leery of it. It is such a close view- It would have to look pretty darn real... I guess what I am saying is that I would sooner go with real wood at eye level. I like the idea of going darker on the mantle though- good move.

The second is a piece (actually two options) shown below that I saw on the Crate and Barrel web site that I thought might look good on the large wall on the left side of the family room. I think it might help balance the room some.

I cannot tell from the picture if they will encumber your walkway at all- but I really like the idea of breaking up that long wall with a piece of furniture- I prefer the Faulkner over the Rojo cabinet.

Also, I will be choosing carpet very soon. Found a great frieze. Would your recommend a tan that blends well with the kitchen tile or a darker color that provides contrast?

I would want contrast with the furniture. In other words- don't go beige sofa, beige carpet. It needs to look good with the hard floor- but does not need to blend or contrast with it. I still prefer my idea of continuing your stone and adding an area rug :)

I’m wondering how many emails you get on your blog….. more than I am able to keep up with- but I try :)

Thanks!
Maryann