Because I love my readers so much... (and because we're poor)...

To me, the perfectly decorated room is mostly traditional, but has a few very well-chosen modern elements thrown in for balance. As far as modern furniture goes, I think you can't go wrong with a Saarinen table and the C&B Petrie Sofa. Both are clean and white and look great mixed in with more traditional furnishings. I'm always on the look-out for these.

If I needed a sofa, you can BET I'd snag this almost-new Petrie off Boston's Craigslist for $450. (This sofa is $1500 normally). You'll need to sink $100 into a professionally upholstery cleaning, but you're still $1000 in the black.

I think the Petrie is a pretty dang good-looking couch...

Jason Martin Designs via Desire to Inspire

I thought it was the best part of the movie "The Break Up"

via

Design by Summer Thornton

via Blueprint

via Flickr

And who doesn't love a good Saarinen table? If you only need a small plain white (non-marble) top, I've used the IKEA Dockstas before and think they are great for their price. BUT! If you're like me, and really, really want the oval-shaped marble top, and you live anywhere near New Jersey (you can pick it up for free), this eBay auction is an absolute steal. The same looking table retails for $6800 at DWR.