Would you like to redecorate your home every now and again?
How about with the change of seasons? Sounds like too much work, time, and expense? It doesn’t have to be. You can make seasonal decorating changes depending on your style, budget, storage, and desire of decorating. Some people enjoy a few small changes for the time of year while others love to completely change the room’s appearance by repainting, moving furniture, changing window treatments, pillows, area rugs, and accessories. Click Here for the full article.
What makes one color look fresh while another seems too familiar? Why are we crazy over new patterns and style but bored and tired of them in a short time? As a designer, I find myself wishing for a new color to be created that has nothing to do with any of the colors that we have ever seen before. Instead, we see the recycling of colors and designs with a new flair. When I started my interior design business in 1990, blue and mauve were fading with the start of the hunter green and wine trend. In the late 1990’s, the arrival of the 70’s avocado, gold, and rust came back. When these colors were forecasted,
I was not impressed. Of course, these colors were renamed to olive/sage, amber and salmon/cinnamon but…they were recycled! I was dreading the next couple of years until this old--I mean “new”color trends makes its cycle. However, I must confess that I was pleasantly surprised by the mix of shades/tones, patterns, and the accent of other colors that were not used in the 70’s such as purple/plum, wine/raisin, brick red, etc. When I built my home in 2001, I selected rich deep hues of olive, sage, black, dark chocolate brown, brick red, salmon, and raisin to best fit my personal style and personality.
What is new for 2009?
From brighter, bolder, and saturated hues to complex toneddown shades, color is on the move. Green continues to be very popular and it is one of the new neutrals. Green represents life, growth, fertility, and financial stability. Remember the 1970 trademark avocado which was renamed to olive and sage? Now you can call it wasabi or gingko. From an eco standpoint, green earth friendly products are only becoming more in demand and are offered more readily than ever before. Soft greens are associated with calming influences.
When mixed with blue and aqua, green takes on a soothing tropical note associated with rest and rejuvenation. Greens are shifting from the yellow-based hues to a grayer side. Many greens can be complimented by a shade of purple or plum.
With no sign of slowing in popularity, purples and plums continue their regal influence in 2009. Adding a smoky or reddish shade to the royal mix, they look especially fresh when paired with neon greens, grays, browns, and blacks which are a chic look. Lavender presents a softer hue.
Spa blue continues into 2009. Complimented by browns and greens, spa blue created a restful and relaxing mood. Blue is also becoming more vibrant with peacock and turquoise becoming more of a primary focus than just accents. Blues are being shown in all shades from the lightest sky blues to medium federal and Wedgwood to deep Navy.
Red gets a new look with a hint of orange. Bright red accents mixed with black and white to brown shades of red mixed with chocolate and black will continue in 2009. Along with true reds, look for rich raspberries to pink. Shades of pink will range from bright to dusty and romantic. Look for the pairing of red and pink with black and white palette or browns.
Black and white combinations are seen with the accents of red, pinks, and browns or just solo. Metallic accents add a trendy transitional/contemporary look. Silver, gold, bronze, and platinum tones are at the forefront of this area of color.
All levels of sheen are being seen from burnished metals to glossy mirror-like finishes.
Metallic accents can update a neutral palette.
Neutrals are always a safe choice. These combinations are soothing and appeal to those for the uncluttered feeling. Add a trend accent color can add life to your neutral décor. Texture also gives interests to your neutral décor.
From “Earth Friendly” to “Glitz and Glamour”, color and design trends run the gamut. Some want a soothing cocoon to come home to while others want to express their personality and style. Décor is being created to reflect a personal style that is an eclectic mix of pattern and color.
Some people worry about the trends. How long will it be in style? What can I select that doesn’t become dated?
I tell my clients that new trends are refreshing and fun but they must compliment you. Every person has their own favorite colors, styles, and designs. Don’t redecorate in a color and/or design that does not reflect you and your lifestyle. You will be tired of it before the trend fades. It is more important to listen to my clients that to pick my favorites. As a designer, I enjoy many different color and designs. I strive to coordinate colors and designs that best fit my clients. I like to see my client’s home through their eyes and select the best selections of color and design that best fits their personality and lifestyle. If your home is well designed, you will enjoy it for many years. Adding a few trendy items are always fun and they will refresh your décor.
6 inexpensive and fun decorating ideas!
~ change wall colors
~ add new pillows
~ move your accessories
~ rotate seasonal accents
~ move your furniture
~ reversible window treatments
