Inspiration in Neutral

As Dan and I are nearing closing on our first home, we have a LOT to tackle over the next 17 days. Yes, 17!! This might be the fastest close in history. Besides the inspection, finalizing the loan, a final walk-through and signing extremely time-sensitive documents, my most 'important' decisions are regarding paint colors and design, of course. Closing, shmosing ... the moonlight solace paint swatch, por favor.

All kidding aside, I'm really looking forward to decorating our new home ... although my heart does palpitate just thinking about our quickly diminishing bank account. I think this will bring fun challenges ahead as I try to re-create my own "Design on a Dime" TV show that should probably be a sitcom.

I've been browsing site after site after catalog after catalog for ideas, and I came across this most fabulous living room from Room & Board:

I. Must. Have. Now some of you might think this is drab, but, well, I guess I'm drab.

If anyone has been to our apartment in Chicago, I'm queen of neutrals and I'm dying for this couch, chair, side table and glass coffee tables. Dan thought it was great until I flashed him the price tag...perhaps I'll buy and not tell him, and he can get the shocking surprise of two delivery men at our front door. He'll thank me later =)