High ceilings make modestly sized rooms look larger and more appealing. However, the scale and lack of dimension of such rooms make built-in storage systems very difficult to place without overwhelming the space.

For this family room, interior designer and space planner Eileen Brown came up with a solution for storage in the form of a simple, fireplace-framing storage system built by Village Woodworks of Finksburg. While one side of the cabinetry houses an entertainment system, the other stores liquor and linens, and includes lighted display shelves.

To avoid turning the substantial cabinetry into a false focal point within the room, Ms. Brown's idea was to paint the entire wall a very soft, dusty rose hue that would give the effect of visually erasing the cabinetry. Pale carpeting and soft teal sofas contribute to a misty feeling. A richly painted acrylic by Brazilian artist Otto Aquiar further softens the scale of the room and adds visual excitement. An original sculptural folk art chair, a family piece, adds whimsy.