An online 3D design rendering tool to help you plan furniture layouts and decor to fit your own personal style using images of your own home.
This post is sponsored by Modsy.
I should start this post with a big giant “nerd alert” banner. Because back when I was a teenager, I used to be obsessed with playing The Sims simply for designing the houses.
I couldn’t care less if all of my characters “died” so long as I had a million dollars and could decorate the rooms.
So whenever I see the 3D room design rendering tools on all of the HGTV shows, I think, “I could seriously just play with that program all day and be thoroughly entertained.”
And then I stumbled upon this website called Modsy that made all of my nerdy little designer dreams come true. If you’ve never heard of it, Modsy is a personalized home design tool that uses 3D visualization technology to let you try on furniture in rooms of your own home before you buy it.
(Psst… there’s a coupon code at the bottom of this post: BLESSER20)
I’d been seeing it pop up on Facebook for months and finally decided to take the plunge because there was this one room in our house that has left me stumped ever since we moved in… our breakfast nook.
It’s just a weird room. Because it is a really small room with four doorways that all get used constantly throughout the day connecting our garage, our laundry room, our kitchen, and our living room.
And yet we use it all the time for pretty much all of our meals as a family when we’re home, so it has to be functional.
I stuck an old wooden table in the space when we first moved in just to get by for a while, and after puppy training last year, the rug that was once here bit the dust. So it’s been desperate for an overhaul.
To get some help from Modsy, I walked around the room and snapped some quick photos with my cell phone and uploaded them to the website. Nothing fancy or photographer-y. 😉
I submitted measurements of the space and filled out a questionnaire along with a style finder quiz that was so eye-opening! Turns out my style is called “Refined Rustic” with a mix of sophisticated, minimal, comfort, and a touch of modern Scandinavian. I had no idea (which I’ve mentioned before because I’m a rather lost designer wannabe).
(You can take the style quiz here. That, all on its own, was really helpful.)
I waited a few days while the pros worked their magic, and I received two design ideas in my inbox with a couple of furniture layout ideas, color schemes, and decor selections… and the 3D images blew. my. mind!
Both designs were slightly more modern than my usual style, so I was able to ask for a revision with a more traditional touch and received two more additional designs to try out too.
Isn’t that crazy?! I geeked out. (But I warned you about The Sims obsession, so you shouldn’t be surprised.)
The guesswork was all done for me, and I’m so ready to tackle this room that has bugged me since Day 1 in this house.
When you receive your designs, Modsy provides a list of all of the sources they used so that you can shop for any of the pieces you like and get a discount through their website.
So now I have to ask, which design do you like best?
Design 1
Design 1 with the bench seating against the wall?
Design 2
Design 2 with the round table in the middle and a modern pendant light?
Design 3
Design 3 with a brass light fixture and more traditional mirror in place of the modern art?
Design 4
Or Design 4 with a more traditional table?
They include a birds eye view too, which helps so much in figuring out the layout. They even got our floor vent in the right spot. Sorcery, I tell you.
What’s your vote? Design 1, 2, 3, 0r 4?
If you want to try out Modsy for yourself, you can click here and use the coupon code BLESSER20 to get 20% off the Multi, Premium, or Classic design packages.
I hope it helps, if you have a stumper room like we do!
I love design 4! But I’m sure whatever you pick and bring to life will look amazing, as it always does!!
Love #4, too! Maybe with the bench from the other style on the wall instead of shelves
I love design 4 for you and your home.
Design 4! It seems to suit the rest of your house really well. The dark chairs balance out the dark doors.
The other designs are nice, and I like some elements of each, bu love all of 4, and from what I see..I think it’s more you!
I prefer the traditional table and the mirror, wit the table centered, but I don’t like any of that lighting. of course, that may just be me. lol I am gonna take that style quiz! 🙂
I liked 3 but then I saw 4 . . . And, put me on team 4!
I have been looking at the Modsy site myself and now seeing your results may just move forward and give ’em a try. I think the name tends to make (made) me think they only do modern.
My biggest issue with any room is if the main walkway is blocked. In my breakfast nook I moved my large table in there, made a window seat and pushed the table against it. We now have seating for 10 people…in my breakfast nook which is 10×12. Now my back door that we use ALL THE TIME isn’t blocked by DR chairs that people never can push back in lol. Which was what happened when we had a small round table with 4 chairs in the middle of the room. So I think you should ask yourself what annoys you most about the room concerning the arrangement. Also try it both ways for a month and see which one fits your way of life.
Design #4 gets my vote. It looks like you didn’t overthink it and it blends so well with the rest of your home decor. The traditional round table compliments your round kitchen counter stools and I love the simplicity of a mirror on a wall, as it doesn’t compete with your other wall decor. Also, the addition of a side board provides additional storage space and completes the room. Can’t wait to see what you decide, as I know it will be awesome!
Yes! Totally agree with everything you said! I’m thinking the side board too because we do need a “drop zone” here. Our keys and bags get dropped on our existing breakfast table every day and it drives me batty!
I like the first one with the bench. Since all 4 doors are used I feel it would keep you from dripping and bumping into the chairs.
I love this whole concept. I’m partial to design 3 – it’s just interesting, but design 1 seems really practical with all the doors and traffic. Anxious to hear which you like best!
I love design 4!!! That’s really a cool design tool!
Design number 4 is my favorite.
I picked number 4 before reading the previous comments and it looks unanimous so far! Can’t wait to see your decision. I’m not liking that light fixture; something a little more shabby chic for me. That thing reminds me of the Jetsons!
Haha! Yeah, I like the brass chandy with arms concept… but maybe one that leans more traditional.
Design 2
Definitely design 4!!
I LOVE #4.
I like design 2 but I think design 4 will fit your style best and look amazing in your home.
Thank you for the design style quiz link- it was right on! I got “Reclaimed Visionary” – combines INDUSTRIAL with RUSTIC and a touch of TRANSITIONAL. 🙂
Design 4 looks amazing in that space!!
I am voting for design 3. I find the shape of that table is tying it all together compared to the one in design 4. But of what I have seen of your house so far I think 4 would be more fitting. This is a hard one …good luck with deciding!
I like Design 1. It has more of a Scandanavian feel to it which speaks to my design heart more than the others. Plus it allows you to have additional storage/display shelving if you need it. The other designs are also great, except for the lighting. I don’t like the lighting in Design 2. It is the only thing I see when I look at the photo. I like the brass lighting with the contemporary rustic table in Design 3 but don’t like it at all with Design 4 and the traditional table. You couldn’t go wrong with any of these designs and when you put your own flair on any of them, I am sure it will be beautiful.
What a great tool! Thanks for sharing it. I’m heading over to check it out!
Number 4. It really suits your style and your home.
Wow! That’s super impressive! Room layouts and functionality are so tricky sometimes. Love what they came up with. My favorites are #2 and #4. I like the round table options much better. Love that console table too!
I Ike’s Design 4, although the lighting choice seems outside the box for you. Excited to see what you choose – love your style and your blog!
I agree; the lighting leans a bit more modern then what I normally choose. It’s given me some direction though. I hadn’t thought of a brass chandelier with arms, but I’m loving that look the best with a design that will lean a tad more traditional I think. Thank you so much!!
I’m actually going for Design 3! Whilst under normal circumstances I prefer the table in Design 4, I think the more solid and substantial shape of the table in Design 3 helps to ground the space and take the focus off all the doors.
I like Design #4, because I like the traditional table (seems like it might be more your style) and the idea of a “landing spot” of the buffet table as you come in the door. Although Design #1 was my second favorite because it provides a more clear walk way around the dedicated eating area. Either one would be a winner in my book! Very cool design tool!
I love #2. It’s a little more modern rustic and seems to ne which way you’re headed going forward.
You get me!! 🙂 Thank you, Lynn!!
#4 for sure!
This is a popular one! 🙂 Most those who mention #1, #2 or #3 say to bring in #4’s light. Thank you for sharing.
I prefer the round table, with #4 being my favorite and number 3 being second choice. Plus, the room seems square, and usually in design a round dining table is the most appropriate shape for a square room.
The long table is nice as it would allow you to seat more people, but you do have a dining room for that. I just think benches–especially against a wall–are awkward getting in and out (we have one without arms in our eat-in nook which works okay for the kids, but can be a problem at times even for them, and is really a challenge for adults) and I think this layout in particular leaves your room feeling off balanced. So, there’s my two cents!
BTW, as to the table, I think if you could find something that was a curvy base similar to #4 but chunkier like #3, so you didn’t have the table feet in the way, that would be PERFECT :~)
IMO bench seats are not that comfortable, so I’m not a fan of #1. I really loved #3 and #4 (leaning toward 4). Can’t wait to see what you do!!!
Mary Anne, Thank you for the feed back. I am really drawn to the round table options too.
Design 4!
I like #4! I do agree with other comments about the light fixture being to modern but I know itll be beautiful when your done, you are so talented. What package did you go with? Just fyi I tried the code BLESSER20 to see what the discount would be on the Classic package and it said invalid code.
Thanks for letting me know, Jessica! I notified Modsy and they said the code should be working now. So sorry about that! I went with the Premium package mostly because I’m impatient and didn’t want to wait for my designs to be finished. Haha!
I vote for Design #4 (love the table!) with the lighting from Design #1.
Personally, I just love all your house designs! And the planter antique on wall is quite unique. The suggested designs seem too modern. My only suggestion is to change your table, try oval or round shape? change chairs? maybe more farm house traditional? Then if still unhappy, change the opposite wall & accessories. I’m sure what you come up with will look fantastic.
Wow! This is awesome, thanks for sharing! I think # 4 suits you, but I would like it with your current pendant or something traditional….don’t like the modern lighting. Also, the traditional mirror is nice……
Mmmm…I personally like the way you’ve already done it better than any of there options.
Definitely # 4
Design #4! But I know whichever you choose will be great when you perform your “Lauren Magic”! Have fun finally getting this space to reflect you and your family.
3, and 4 is nice too. I think I’m drawn to 3 because it’s just a little different but still fits your overall home scheme beautifully.
Love Design 4 but i really dislike the chandelier.
Design 4! No doubt!
Hands down #4 🙂
Number 4! Different light!
I love 4 the best! But I do like 1 also I’m just not sure about that bench and how easy it would be to get in and out of the space. Can’t wait to see what you do!
Design #4 looks like the best plan to me. Then again I live in Palm Springs Ca! I live in a home with very little “character”. No wainscoting or nice moldings. Such a lovely space!
I like what you already have more than anything they suggested! Is that an option? Lol! Maybe turn your table the other way add a new rug and replace the plants with a console table, mirror, etc.?
Haha! I know. If I turn the table the other way, there isn’t enough room to walk behind the table between the garage door, laundry room, and kitchen. I got this old table on Craigslist when we moved in and didn’t realize until we got it home that it has some terribly damaged spots underneath that risk splinters. And with a baby that will soon be toddling under there in a few months, I didn’t want a safety hazard for her. I have a family member inheriting it who will be able to appreciate it more though. 🙂
Wow, that is seriously awesome and looks like so much fun! My favorite is #4, as I feel it looks the most like your overall style. Also, I’m a big fan of round pedestal style tables because I think they are versatile and I like that there are fewer corners to deal with, easier to squeeze in an extra chair or two if needed. I also like the addition of the mirror. Not really a big fan of the light fixture, but of course, you could alway change it, as well as make other small changes as well, that is the beauty of it! But I think the overall look with the simple buffet table and round table and chairs is great!
Hi – Im thinking about painting all my interior doors black (or wrought iron). Did you have to change the hinges? did you paint the hinges?
Nope! I just free hand around them, but if you don’t have a steady hand, good ol’ Frog tape will do the trick. No hinge removal required. 🙂
I love the round table for your space…and you can incorporate the elements of each of the other designs as you see fit. (I also love black…it’s sophisticated and a little dramatic.) I can’t wait to see what you do with this room!
Most definitely design #4. Seems to suit the space and the design esthetic you already have in your home the best.
#3 and #4 would be my choices for you. I actually prefer the looks of the #3 table, but am not sure it would be as comfortable to sit under (would the bulky pedestal get in the way of your legs??) Also, #3 may have too many modern design choices than what you seem to gravitate toward. I LOVE the chandelier–something unexpected and “airy” in that “crossroads” space. Definitely don’t care for the designs with chunky lighting.
…just my 2 cents!
My design style is ….
Timeless Traditional combines American Traditional and Classic Formal with a touch of Rustic
I’m like you, who knew?!?!?!?!? I get where they’re going but I’m actually not a fan of rustic, that was just part of my 3rd choice. Great site!
Yes! I’m with you. I’m trying to stray further away from rustic because I’m honestly getting a little tired of the farmhouse trend, and in a traditional colonial home, it doesn’t really make sense. But sometimes I have to sneak a tad of it in there because those weathered wood touches and cozy textures just say “home”. 😉
Lauren, can you share which of the Modsy packages you chose to get these results?
I used the Premium package but mainly because I’m impatient and wanted my designs faster. 😉 All of the packages would get you a couple of designs with 3D renderings like this; the Classic and Basic ones would just take a few more days than I had to wait, and if you purchased any of the items in the renderings in the Basic package, you wouldn’t get discounts on them when shopping. I hope that helps!
I agree with the others that Design 4 is the best. Love the layout but would look for a table with a slightly smaller diameter to fit the space better. Unless it’s an optical illusion Design 3’s table is a bit smaller. I agree with the other commenters that a different light fixture would look better and be more your style. The buffet/shelf unit seems very practical for your needs. I also like the larger rug in this design, as it works to make the space seem larger and more like a room than a pass through area from all the doors. I know whatever you do will be amazing. Good luck.
What a great tool!! Love #4!! Can’t wait to see what you end up choosing…
I LOVE #4!
The table is classic, the design feels roomy and breezy. The light is fun. The whole arrangement just looks and feels right.
What an awesome tool! Love #4. It was the more traditional table that clinched the look. Can’t wait to see what the room will look like when you put your design touch on it.
My vote is for #4. Before you showed the 4 versions in my mind I had the table up against the wall like version 1. But then when you walk in – boom your into the table. # 4 gives you a drop zone and storage and I think the round table brings a smooth flow to the room. The rest of it – yeah you know what to do with your style once you have the furniture down. 🙂 Love your style girl.
Definitely design 4, but done with your magic touch! The round table and chairs in the style/look that you love and that will fit in with the rest of your home. Also round tables allow flow in all directions and with no hard edges little toddling heads won’t get bumped. Think it might also allow you to still have space for your existing wall decor too.
#4 just seems to suit your style and blend so nicely with the adjoining spaces. You have a beautiful traditional yet comfortable style throughout your home that I admire. #4 seems to fit that style with perhaps a little less modern light fixture for a more cohesive look. Now that you have a direction, I know you will run with it and make it your own. Can’t wait to see the beautiful results!
What fun! My fav is #4 and next fav is #3 – as practical as it is with table and bench scooted all the way over it just – to me – doesn’t look as well thought out.
Only thing I would change is use a seeded clear glass chandelier. That way the chandy isn’t stealing the attention……and gives a chance for eyes to rest a bit.
I think that program is awesome – what an excellent product. Thanks for the inspiration.
Design #4 🙂
Hi ..I pick Design 4 .. Before I read the comments I think the table with the awesome rug is what I think blends with the rest of your house.I can see you doing some awesome vignettes on the buffet with some of your art work.As well to me it just looks so family friendly..visualizing Olivia doing her homework while Reagan is doing some crafts. This is the website that Karianne from Thistlewoods Farms did with one of the twins..It was awesome!!!
Option one seems off balance, particularly in the Birds eye view. Option 4 is hands down my favorite, but Option 3 is the same just with different style furnishings/art. Great online service for those “I just can’t decide” rooms!
I love #4, it fits your style sooo much! The round table actually makes the room look a bit larger. The chandelier from #2 makes a statement and fits in with your rustic style and also complements yours door colors. You might also be able to use your chairs, they are such a statement piece and would provide balance if you use the dark chandelier and lighter table. Hope you can find a spot for the wall planter since it appears a tad too large if you place a credenza on that wall. Looking forward to your final design!
Lauren, I love the planters that you have on the wall now which you can change for the seasons! I love the table and chairs in #4 — and their placement. However, whatever you do will be really nice as you always do such a fabulous job of decorating! Have a great week!
What a fab tool the Modsy is, aperently my look is ‘formal classic with a touch of eclectic! ? it’s true!
Anyway here is my 2 pence worth, with my practical head on bench seats are fab for children to wriggle around on and you can squeeze quite a few up down one side of the rectangle table when friends come for tea. Cushions can make a bench more comfortable for older folk. The rectangle table would also take up less room or rather it would be easier to go round when going from room to room using the space as a corridor.
I love design #4, fits the space so well! What about an orb chandelier? Would still be open and airy, but would also mimic the roundness of the table. Just a thought. ☺️
I really like #3. It gives a more interested look than the more traditional 4. You can’t go wrong with any of the designs. I can’t wait to sign up for Modsy.
DESIGN #4
2 for me, originally I thought a banquet would work good, but You know what Feels best to and your family needs! Good luck !
I like #4 but not the light fixture.
Definitely design 1 for functionality’s sake . With the table in the middle I could see the chairs getting pushed out and blocking the walk way on either side. Plus it’s cute and has that breakfast nook vibe .
2 for me,I thought you needed a more solid based table and the gray shaded light works with the rest of the house. Originally I was thinking of a built-in banquet to give the room more definition, but whatever works for you and your family!
I like design 1 as I feel it gives you the option for more seating if you had a couple guests (like grandparents or friends!). You can put chairs at the ends of the table and have room for 6. Also the extra space to walk from the kitchen or doorways makes for good flow. I do love round tables but I think both of those are just so small. But I don’t think you could go wrong with any of the options; you just have to decide what your top needs are. Everyone like the chunky round table, but I prefer the more modern style.
Absolutely #2.
Design 4
oh boy! Tough room to have a dining space in with all the doors. I thought I read you needed a table in there, but if not, I can certainly see that area as a great foyer with storage, cute chairs for sitting to put shoes on, etc.
I suspect, like others, we all like bits and pieces of all their suggested designs. So, it’s either put the table on the wall, or center it like you have it, but add a side table.
I love the idea of a side table, but personally, I’d go crazy with it NOT centered! lol I think a catch all table of some sort, just much smaller, so you could center it would do the same job, and look balanced. Then, I’m sure you don’t wanna paint doors again, but i LOVE, LOVE the softness of the gray doors. (I think they look more gray, than stark black on their design pics, not sure if they really are recommending grey) It just really warms the room up a lot. I’m a less is more kinda person, so all the artwork AND then a large side table with stuff on top, is too much for a small room, but, that’s a personal preference.
Here’s another thought – just add a really great rug to what you already have and boom, done!
1 and 4 are my faves!!
#4! I love the round table. And if you choose a round table with a leaf so it expands to oval for extra seating, that’d be a plus. But whatever you choose will be perfect because your taste is impeccable!
BLESSER20 did not work
Hi, Joan! I am so sorry there was trouble for you. I let Modsy know and they have fixed it. Please try again?
# 4 looks like you, go with 4!!!
I love adding the sideboard. For your house I would say 4 BUT the table in #3 would add a quirky warm feel to the whole area and even make the kitchen pop more. The brass light fixture is really fun and brass is making a very strong comeback
Thank you for putting a twist to a new option, Sandy!!
Design #4. I love MODSY. I have used it twice. The best is their 3D revision tool where you can play with moving and replacing the furniture yourself! It returns basic renderings, not as high resolution as when their pros do it, but it’s super fun nonetheless.
Hi, Melanie!! I know, right!! I am loving this tool!!
Design #4! Brass ight fixture provides visual interest. Love the addition of the long side table which could be used as a buffet if needed, or a cute place for seasonal decor!
GREAT, added ideas!! Thank you!! 🙂
I love design #4 pretty much for all the reasons everyone else mentioned plus one more – I despise being asked to slide into bench seating that’s pulled up to a table. It’s uncomfortable and awkward. (Feel free to ignore my opinion! I am probably in the minority.?)
#4. It fits your space and decorating atyle and has a better flow around the room.
I like design 1 with the bench against the wall. So cute and kind of out of the way of the traffic routes.
I picked #4 before reading the comments too. Although I agree with a previous commenter that the table in #3 grounds the space. We are empty nesters, and you are not. If you plan on a larger family, table size may be a bigger consideration. Also, pedestal tables can get in the way of people’s legs and feet, and little people are going to want to put their feet on the pedestal when their feet don’t reach the floor. Personally, I love the modern brass chandelier, which really adds a “cool” factor.
Hi Lauren, what a post!
I think the round table is a really good idea but I really love your old table…any chance the oldy could work as the console table? Your current chairs would look good with a round table. I think the new brass mirror looks way better because it does not compete with color with your (very architectural and lovely) doors. {just a comment about the two doors showing; if you put a curved insert in the top left and right doors to the laundry room, that is curved like the back door, the two doors wouldn’t be fighting each other…square vs curve}
If you like your current light fixture, try painting it in brass..I agree with a lot of comments about not liking the model light fixtures.
Also, it seems like the baskets (4) ground or compliment the table color and kind of break up or add interest to the charcoal tones of the room; your existing wall hanging with the pots (which I like) could do the same thing or you could dry brush with a little charcoaly color or dark wax. The pictures above the console look more “office-y” to me.
Personally, I would rethink the large rug in the photo’s, it is gorgeous but looks like a tripping hazard with all the doorways. Just one last comment about the round table. Looks very good, either one, but #4 could probably be found with the ability to add a leaf as opposed to the other. Lastly, I know you will choose whatever is right for you, go slow and take your time.
I agree with most here, Design 4. I used Modsy for my living room and am in the process of adding the pieces as suggested. I combined ideas from each of my designs. My son has used it to design two rooms and the results are amazing! It takes the guess work (and gas money!) out of putting a room together! Well worth the fee.
I like your breakfast nook as is, but what I was thinking before I saw the modsy suggestions is that a round table would look better. I think it would soften the edges from the view of your kitchen. I didn’t care for the modern one for your space though. I would keep your chairs which look good and replace just the table if you are needing a change.
#4 looks like YOU designed it to go with the rest of your house. The table in #3 is interesting but I also wonder if it would be comfortable to sit at or would the larger pedestal part get in the way of your legs? I used to have bench seating in my eating area and dont find it as practical to get in amd out of as a single chair. Love the brass chandelier. Thanks for sharing a fun tool!
Toss up between 3 & 4
I think #1 gives you a clear path through your high-traffic area. The bench is great for children..our kids use one and we use the chairs. It looks like your style to me.
The table in #3 is impractical because where will your husband’s legs go?
No way my hubby would be comfortable there.
#4 also looks like your style with a more traditional chandelier. Keep us posted.
Thanks for sharing Modsy with us!!
I used to play the Sims for HOURS and HOURS when I was a teenager! I’m so glad I’m not the only one! I’ve also used Modsy before and they are great to work with – they designed my office and I was thrilled with the results!
I like both 3 and 4! I’m wondering if you could share the source of the black chairs in those options. Thanks!
Here are the most similar chairs that I can find. I hope these work for. 🙂
youhttps://rstyle.me/+LxEkB380KeE3bClqJj7gGA