Chicago: Fairview Avenue

In this Chicago basement, designer Genevieve Gorder makes wood a more prominent element in the den to set a theme for a warmer, more comfortable room. Amber and butter colors dominate the palette and are offset by new fabric patterns seen throughout the room. The crumbling pulp board on the ceiling is replaced with 4'x8' wood-paneled sheets, immediately giving the room a warm feel.

Why did Gen find this reveal memorable? "I'm glad the homeowners really liked it because when the production assistant and I pulled down the ceiling tiles, a blizzard of mouse droppings and dead mice fell down our shirts. I think the PA actually lost it for a second when she started jumping up and down and speaking in tongues."