$55 Living Room Makeover

My boyfriend and I moved into our house almost a year ago.

We were (and still are) on a budget, and decorating hasn't really been a priority.

We got most of our furniture from garage sales, thrift stores, craigslist, and from our friends and family.

Our friend's father gave us these couches for free.

They are in really good condition, and I like the shape, but they are definitely not our style (if we even have a 'style').

My main problem is that the pattern is so bold that it steals the show. Everything we do to the room ends up being overshadowed by the green monsters, and all the throw pillows I've made totally clash.

We aren't ready to buy new couches yet, and slip covers can be crazy expensive.

So when I saw some simple, natural-colored slip covers at Big Lots for pretty cheap, I went home and measured our sofa and loveseat to make sure they would fit.

Side note: Do you have a Big Lots near you? I've been told they are only in a few areas. I'm glad I have one right around the corner because they some really great deals and LOTS of home decor items.

The sofa cover was $30 and the loveseat cover was $25.

And after wrestling with these puppies for a little while, I was very pleased with the final result:

 The covers need to be steamed to get the wrinkles out, I know.

It looks like a blank canvas. I can do anything to it without having to accommodate dark green leaves! It feels so refreshing to walk in and not feel so bombarded. 

Now that I have a clean slate, I've got a lot of ideas for spicing this space up.

Here are some rugs that I like 

Source: None via Amy on Pinterest

Source: anthropologie.com via Amy on Pinterest

and if I can convince Brendan to part ways with his beloved recliner, I'd like to get an accent chair or two.

Source: target.com via Amy on Pinterest

Source: target.com via Amy on Pinterest

...and this lamp.

Source: anthropologie.com via Amy on Pinterest

OH. MY. GAWD. This lamp... I've been admiring it forever. But I am on a serious Anthropologie boycott ever since the whole Urban Outfitters incident. This lamp looks like something I could possibly make, and customize to whatever colors end up in this room.
I'm making some pillows this week, so I will show photos of any progress that I make.

Also... any suggestions for what to do with that big empty wall? I know there are a lot of options, but the thermostat is smack dab in the middle of the wall. I'd like to have words with whoever made that genius decision...
Anyway, happy Wednesday :)