Alyse's Profile

Some suggestions: Change the shape of the space by changing the shape of the furniture. I would ditch the couch in favor of a couple of space-appropriate chairs with softer edges. While it's an old decorating trick for spaces like this, it still works: Start a collection of mirrors on one wall. It lights AND changes the shape of the space. Another possibility would be creating a faux entrance on one wall with salvaged French doors hung in front of a mural of a garden? another world? or (on the frugal side) create a similar look with two inexpensive full-length mirrors you've carefully painted or taped to mimic french doors. Just ideas...

It prompts just one question: Do you freely tack up bits and pieces of other cultures and religions in your house as art? If you are hanging it over your Buddha or next to your interchanging Kwan Yin/Virgin Mary collection, go for it. Otherwise, you're looking like a member of the Wannebe nation.

I have owned two houses with history. One, a 125-year old house that had originally been built for the buergermeister's mistress and the one I live in now. This house has some pretty interesting stuff that happens each year between September and November. We're okay with it. I have no idea what your belief systems are; but, I would suggest doing whatever you do to clean out the energy in a place after you make the purchase: clean with rosemary in the water, burn some sage in each room, have someone of your faith come say a blessing and then enjoy YOUR new space.

Kathlee, I'm sure you have a lot of other things to spend money on, so here are my thoughts: Knock off the left hand rail to open up the passageway. It will incorporate the stoop into the concrete pad to the left. Nestle a gardening container in the corner with some tall grass and a pop of color and a friendly welcome mat.