The Flaws: Kate and Charlie keep cookbooks in the living room because there's no space in the kitchen. "On Saturday mornings, we sit on the sofa, read recipes, and plan meals," she says. But bookshelves that are constantly used tend to get messy.
The Finds: A colorful and sophisticated toothpick sculpture that the Johnsons' eldest son, 12-year-old Ted, made in school at age 10 was stashed in the TV room.
The Fixes: The photos were cleared away. All the books were removed and sorted into groups according to size. Ripped dust jackets were thrown out, and the books were arranged so that every inch of space was utilized. With the books lined up both vertically and horizontally in a rhythmic pattern, the shelves became a vibrant decorative element. And Ted's sculpture took center stage. "I love how prominent it is now," says Kate. "It looks designed to be there." The tole bowl, also found in the TV room, was mounted on the wall to match the tray over the fireplace and provide a leitmotiv for the living room.