Design Project

Home Highlight Reel: Our 27 Most Transformative Before & After Reveals

Kelsey Clark ·
Sophisticated living room with warm wood beams, cream drapery, burgundy leather chair, and modern furnishings creating elevated, timeless elegance.

A good before and after crystallizes everything we know and love about interior design. These dramatic reveals are not only creative and inspiring, they highlight the power and importance of thoughtful design as it related to happiness and overall well-being. Think interior design isn’t worth the money? Just look at a transformative bedroom makeover or a complete living room overhaul — priceless.

So, in the name of both inspo and enlightenment, we’re chronicling a selection of Havenly before and after reveals. From Austin, Texas to New York City and beyond, these design makeovers are equal parts stunning, eye-catching, and straight-up impressive (if we do say so ourselves).

Ahead, find a selection of our all-time favorite room makeovers, courtesy of Havenly clients and designers.


1. From Dated to Dreamy

Before

Warm traditional living room with golden-tan walls, dark leather seating, fireplace focal point, and rich wood accents

After

Serene modern living room with white palette, fireplace surround, soft neutral furnishings, and minimalist aesthetic

To give this living room a modern facelift, we started with the obvious: a crisp coat of white paint on the walls (Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace, to be precise). Next, we nixed the dark wood paneling, rock fireplace, and storage cabinets in favor of clean shiplap and bench-style seating on each side. Finished with comfy, contemporary seating, Pacific-inspired textiles and prints, and a statement pendant instead of the ho-hum fan, the finished look is California classic perfection.


2. From Builder-Grade to Beautiful

Before

Contemporary open living space with natural wood floors, linear fireplace, clean white walls, and bright natural light

After

Scandinavian-inspired living area with muted green accent wall, potted plants, white shelving, and cozy minimalist vibe

When refreshing this living room, the challenge lie in refreshing dated finishes and adding personality to the builder-grade space. In addition to some light demo and a DIY fireplace mural, Melissa — a Havenly lead designer — added personality with an oversized lantern pendant, modern-contemporary furnishings, perfectly curated decor, and just shy of 70 houseplants.


3. From Bland to Glam

Before

After

Eclectic modern home office with bold teal and navy walls, black desk, brass accents, and colorful contemporary touches

The “before” space was just a run-of-the-mill dining room: white walls, old-school buffet, and standard window treatments. Add in black paneled walls, statement wallpaper, and glam furnishings, and voila — it’s ready for its close-up. We love the vibrant jewel tone pops and brass finishes for even more luxe refinement.


4. From Cottage to Creative

Before

Bright, airy living room with warm yellow walls, dark leather sectional, and patterned curtains creating a welcoming, transitional aesthetic

After

Minimalist Scandinavian fireplace nook with crisp white walls, black pendant light, and natural wood shelving in serene, contemporary style

Homeowner Autumn Williams loved the historic details in her 19th-century Denver home, but not the cottage-esque yellow paint and overall dated vibe. With a crisp coat of white paint, a casual DIY faux fireplace mantle, matte black accents, and some brass touches, her “after” looks like a proper Parisian pied-à-terre.


5. From Uninspired to Insta-Worthy

Before

After

Bright farmhouse kitchen with white cabinetry, warm wood accents, brass fixtures, and natural light creating a clean, inviting culinary space

From the soffits to the appliances, our VP of Design’s old kitchen was straight out of the 1990s. She gave it a major overhaul finished with mushroom-painted cabinetry (Clare Paint’s No Filter, to be exact), swoon-worthy marble countertops and backsplash, vintage brass hardware, a floating island and pendant lights, plus plenty of natural texture for added warmth.


6. From Bare to Bold

Before

Modern statement dining space with contemporary glass chandelier, neutral walls, and sheer curtains emphasizing architectural drama and elegance

After

Sophisticated dining room blending dark charcoal walls with white ceiling, natural wood table, and soft lighting for warm, refined contrast

Havenly lead designer Brady Burke did a full-scale design overhaul in his stunning Denver Victorian, and decided to go moody in the dining room. With a coat of charcoal paint, a considerable light fixture upgrade, proper window treatments, and a stunning dining table display, it’s safe to say he restored the dining space to its former glory.

7. From Trendy to Timeless

Before

Scandinavian living room with warm wood accents, soft gray upholstery, and brass lighting creating a bright, airy minimalist aesthetic

After

Contemporary fireplace lounge with caramel leather, exposed brick, dark accents, and warm neutral tones in modern eclectic style

Another show-stopping room in his stunning Victorian townhouse, Brady replaced more trendy pieces (like an animal print rug) with timeless neutrals, new lighting, and warm leather and brass to create a classic look. Finished with cozy textiles, greenery, and fresh window treatments, the resulting space is timeless.


8. From Cramped to Calming

Before

After

This 500-square-foot condo features a long, narrow living-slash-dining space — a notoriously difficult layout to work with. But Havenly lead designer Vivian Torres was up to the room makeover challenge — she went with DIY built-ins (yes, those are from IKEA), clever chaise lounge chairs facing the fireplace, and a small but chic open kitchen and dining nook as a focal point. The “after” vibe feels intentional, calming, and classic.


9. From Cold to Cali Cool

Before

Bright modern sunroom with exposed wood beams, arched windows, natural light, and warm wood flooring in transitional farmhouse style

After

Airy contemporary family room with terracotta accents, light wood furniture, exposed beams, and floor-to-ceiling windows in mid-century modern design

Overwhelmed by the size and scale of her new Los Angeles abode, LadyGang CEO and television host Keltie Knight tapped Havenly to reimagine her spacious living room. Designer Maha Boulfelfel helped her strike the perfect balance between beauty and comfort, adding layered rugs, elevated mis-matched furniture, tonal artwork, and a striking, brick red accent chair.


10. From Cluttered to Curated

Before

After

Soft feminine bedroom office with blush built-ins, white accents, natural light, and gentle pink tones in modern cottage style

This office is proof that styling can dramatically transform a space. Amy had a beautiful foundation (those soft blush built-ins, though!), but, the space lacked a distinct design point of view and felt a bit more cluttered than curated. Havenly’s Shelby Girard helped her refine the sophisticated blush, ivory, and brass palette and carried it through to the statement chair, window seat, and shelving decor.


11. From Sunken to Sunny

Before

Serene screened porch with dark green shiplap, brick flooring, and natural light creating a tranquil outdoor retreat.

After

Bright, airy sunroom with crisp white furnishings, natural wood accents, and abundant greenery for calm coastal vibes.

Our VP of Creative & Design saw literally nothing but potential in the dark and dusty sunroom in her Connecticut abode. Eager to make it a lounge-worthy space (overlooking the expansive backyard), she painted the walls, floor, and ceiling a crisp white, added texture via jute accents, and finished it off with sleek, cozy seating. Styled with marble coffee tables and greenery, it’s equal parts serene and elevated.


12. From Incomplete to Inspired

Before

Warm mid-century modern bedroom featuring warm wood tones, soft ambient lighting, and layered neutral bedding.

After

Minimalist farmhouse bedroom with soft cream linens, natural wood bench, and diffused window light for serene simplicity.

Actress Odette Annable’s guest bedroom had great bones and the building blocks of a striking design. But Havenly lead designer Kelsey Fischer was able to take it to new heights, creating a cozy, lived-in guest room brimming with visceral texture. A neutral linen bed anchors the space (the Modern Wingback Bed from The Inside), while tonal drapes, patterned throw pillows, light wood furniture, and hints of edgy black add warmth and visual interest.


13. From Cold to Character-Rich

Before

After

Cottage bathroom blending coastal blue accents with dark wood vanity, brass fixtures, and classic black arch mirror detail.

Nothing was necessarily wrong with Veronica’s bathroom — it was just stuck in the early 2000s. The heavy vanities, wood mirrors, overdone lighting, and tile backsplash were  begging for an update. With help from her designer, Veronica opted for timeless wainscoting in a French blue hue, a modern wood vanity set against vintage-inspired faucets, and a statement curio cabinet. Details like the scalloped woven rug and brass pendant light bring the space to life.


14. From Old-Fashioned to High-Fashion

Before

Warm traditional bedroom with burgundy accents, hardwood floors, and natural light from corner windows

After

Serene contemporary bedroom with crisp white linens, navy nightstands, and minimalist modern chandelier

Overwhelmed by the sheer size of the her new bedroom, Melissa focused on adding warmth, texture, and “wow” moments to the space. In addition to constructing a 14-foot DIY upholstered headboard for an eye-catching statement, she added a plush area rug, pretty window treatments, and brand-new light fixtures to give the space a considerable face lift. The resulting “after” feels cozy, lived-in, and complete.


15. From Simple to Statement-Making

Before

Sophisticated bedroom with blue sheer curtains, gray upholstered headboard, and geometric pendant lighting

After

Tropical-inspired bedroom with bold botanical wallpaper, coral velvet bench, and natural beaded chandelier

This spacious bedroom had great bones (just look at those French doors!) but was in serious need of a style upgrade. We swapped the drab gray headboard for a lucite canopy bed, added shiplap to the upper half of the walls, and went all-out with a vibrant palm wallpaper. Finished with a blush velvet bench, playful pillows, and a show-stopping chandelier, we brought Veronica’s Beverly Hills Hotel-inspired retreat to life.


16. From Unfinished to Ultimate

Before

Bright industrial workspace with reclaimed wood desk, neutral palette, and expansive gridded windows

After

Bright coastal home office with cream linen chair, reclaimed wood desk, woven pendant light, and geometric area rug

With a reclaimed wood desk and cozy upholstered chair, Odette’s office was already well-decorated. But to add a little bit more form to the existing function, Havenly lead designer Kelsey Fischer set out to infuse the space with cozy texture. A large checkerboard area rug expands the space while adding a trendy element, while the statement pendant light draws the eye up and checks the “sculptural” box.


17. From Musty to Must-Have

Before

Warm contemporary bedroom with yellow geometric bedding, taupe walls, nailhead ottomans, and soft ambient lighting

After

Modern bedroom with geometric patterned accent wall, navy headboard, colorful pillow mix, and warm wood flooring

Believe it or not, that’s paint, not wallpaper — hand-stenciled in a bold geometric repeat by Havenly designer Marie Lacote. From there, she added even more personality to this once-drab bedroom with a colorful area rug, blue velvet bed, and jewel-toned accents. While the graphic backdrop steals the show, the finished space is a head-to-toe glow-up. 


18. From Stale to Striking

Before

Classical living room with cream paneled walls, fireplace mantel, warm wood flooring, and elegant symmetrical design

After

Scandinavian fireplace vignette with white walls, natural wood furniture, black accents, and minimalist gallery display

Enamored with the centered fireplace, historic wall moulding, and original hardwood floors, Shelby knew her home had good bones. But to add personality, sophistication, and a modern edge, she went with mis-matched furniture, sculptural side tables, and hints of marble. Finished with an ornate statement mirror, new wall sconces, and a plush area rug, the “after” space feels thoughtful, elevated, and just edgy enough.

19. From Outdated to Organic

Before

After

Bright Scandinavian living room with natural wood furniture, cream sofa with patterned pillows, and sheer white curtains creating an airy, light-filled space.

Clearly, Veronica’s Denver, Colorado home was basically begging for a modern refresh. To make the open-concept living and dining space suited to a busy family of four (with two young kids), her designer created separate “rooms” with rugs and strategically-placed seating, plus a spacious dining table for family meals. With thoughtful details — like performance fabric and going sans-rug in the dining room — the space is just as chic as it is kid-friendly.

20. From Bland to Boho

Before

After

Serene bedroom with deep blue accent wall, woven basket wall display, and neutral bedding creating a calm, nature-inspired coastal aesthetic.

With a genuine flair for bold colors and bohemian design, New York-based Danielle Chiprut wanted to make sure her primary bedroom aligned with the rest of her colorful home. Her designer started with a coat of bold blue paint to create a cozy, serene atmosphere, and finished the look with a natural live-edge headboard, basket wall decor, and crisp white bedding pilled high with texture.

21. From Old to Extraordinary

Before

After

Minimalist living room with high ceilings, white palette, grand piano, and abundant natural light from oversized windows overlooking greenery.

A second angle of Shelby’s living room shows the transformative power of good design. Finished with plus, floor-to-ceiling curtains, a large area rug, and fresh greenery, the once-bare space feels warm, inviting, and brimming with cozy texture. The statement chandelier is like icing on the cake – it draws the eye up and makes a subtle, sculptural design statement.

22. From Gray to Glam

Before

Warm contemporary family room with soft blue sofa, textured wallpaper, and amber lighting creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere.

After

Luxe lounge with deep burgundy curved sectional, marble side tables, and warm neutral tones establishing an elegant, sophisticated ambiance.

In need of a space that reflected her striking personal style, Selling Sunset‘s Chelsea Lazkani tapped Havenly’s own Kelsey Fischer for a proper glow-up. The first order of business? Ditching the all-gray color palette in favor of warm rust and luxe materials, like velvet, marble, and cane. The rippled statement sofa, limewashed walls, and warm wood accents make the space feel just glam enough for the reality star.

23. From Empty to Inspired

Before

Bright farmhouse living space with exposed dark beams, cream walls, and arched window framing natural landscape views

After

Modern farmhouse living room blending rust leather chair, cream sofa, natural wood elements, and botanical accents

While Laura Murray’s home boasted stunning architectural features, the photographer wanted help planning, furnishing, and styling her living room. She tapped Havenly for the popular organic modern aesthetic, and we brought it to life with natural textures, a neutral color palette, and pops of earth tones like rust, berry, and black.

24. From Cold to Cozy

Before

Contemporary minimalist double-height space with floor-to-ceiling gridded windows and sculptural pendant lighting

After

Modern transitional living room featuring forest green sofa, expansive window walls, and organic pendant fixture

Overwhelmed with the idea of furnishing her new Denver home from top to bottom, Veronica Collins tapped Havenly for a little help. The home had beautiful bones (including floor-to-ceiling windows and rich hardwood floors), so we kept it simple with classic, high-quality furnishings and touches of warmth, from the Interior Define sofa to the raw wood coffee table.

25. From Dusty to Dashing

Before

Sparse traditional room with warm wood tones, modest fireplace, and minimal furnishings in neutral palette

After

Bright, minimalist dining space with mid-century modern aesthetic featuring warm wood round table, natural rattan chairs, and brass pendant light above.

Of course, our very own Shelby Girard also wanted to refresh her dated dining room, too. To give it new life, she went with a crisp white coat of Benjamin Moore’s Simply White, removed the canned ceiling lighting in favor of a statement pendant, and added warmth with walnut furnishings and natural materials like fur, jute, and wicker.

26. From Boring to Bold

Before

Serene contemporary bedroom with warm wood bed frame, crisp white linens, and soft natural light creating a calm, airy retreat.

After

Sophisticated bedroom with dramatic dark ceiling, geometric patterned wallpaper, rich wood nightstands, and warm peachy-gold bedding for layered elegance.

Desiring more personality and color in her Denver home, entrepreneur Virginia Frischkorn tapped Havenly to makeover her entire home — including the guest bedroom. We pattern-drenched the space in matching blue wallpaper and curtains, and finished off the look with warm accents, from the Citizenry rug and bedding to the warm wood nightstands.

27. From Old School to Original

Before

Warm transitional kitchen-dining space blending dark cabinetry, natural wood dining table, soft lighting, and cozy built-in window seating.

After

Serene coastal-inspired kitchen and dining area with soft blue cabinetry, white built-ins, natural wood table, and airy window nook seating.

Heather is not only our Director of Design & Content — she’s our resident cottagecore queen. Needless to say, her dark and dated early-2000s era kitchen just wasn’t cutting it. To add life and levity, she focused on low-lift updates, like painted cabinets, a little beadboard, new hardware, and fresh backsplash tile. With just under $4,000, the space looks brand-new.

Want a jaw-dropping *after* of your own? Work one-on-one with our expert interior designers for just $129 per room. Get started on your room makeover today with ourstyle quiz.