Tag Archives: color

Five ways to create a Happy Home

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House Beautiful has an ongoing column where guest designers submit ideas that they believe help create a “happy home”.  Each designer has differing ideas but there are some tried and true methods that will work in every home.

  1. Lighting:  Whether it comes from artificial sources such as lamps or candles or is natural light shining through a window, lighting is important not only to the look and feel of the room but to our overall sense of happiness and well-being.
  2. Personal items:  Family photos, heirlooms, souvenirs and other items that identify the people who live there are not only decorative but help to create a happy space for your family and guests.
  3. Pop of color:  A bright pop of unexpected color is a treat for the eye.  It can be something as simple as a colorful floral arrangement in a neutral room or something bold such as a piece of abstract artwork hung on the wall.  Pop a throw pillow on your sofa in an unexpected color to really add drama and interest.
  4. Pieces you love:  If you fill a room with pieces that delight you every time you look at them you are bound to create a happy home.  This could be your grandmother’s favorite china hung on the wall or the rocking chair you used to read to your babies.  Perhaps it is the first piece of furniture you purchased as a couple or something you picked up on a favorite vacation.  If you love these items you will not tire of them.
  5. Whimsy:  Every home needs a touch of whimsy.  A small statue hidden under a table, colorful artwork created by your kids or a brightly patterned fabric that covers a bench in the entryway can all provide that little surprise that just makes you happy when you look at it.  Take this little dog hiding under a table, for example.  Makes me happy just seeing it in the picture so imagine how fun it would be as a guest to discover it when you visit this home.

    design by jjlocations.uk.com

 

 What are your ideas for creating a happy home?

 

Fabric and home decor: Can U spot the trends?

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It’s test time again….I hope you are getting better at this as we go along; I know I am.  Take a look at this photo and see if you can spot the decorating trends used.  Here’s a little study guide:

     1.  Look for fabric trends.  Today’s trends include geometric and trellis patterns as well as floral, birds, animal prints etc.

     2.  Color is always an easy trend to incorporate when decorating a room.  I think you probably know what paint, upholstery and fabric trends are popular right now.  If not, you need to go back and review this post and this post.

     3.  Furniture and accessories can also be trendy at times.  Sunburst mirrors, gourd lamps, mid-century design mixed with today’s furniture lines…these are all current trends that are easy to spot.

After this review you are probably ready for the “test” so here it is.  Remember, no looking at your neighbor’s answers!

We can see several current trends in this room from elle decor.  To begin with, old coffee sacks used as upholstery on the chair remains a very popular trend, especially for those of you who enjoy the industrial look or love the idea of repurposing an item.  Speaking of the industrial look, that old ladder in the corner is a great addition to the room and is functional as well.  Use it as a bookcase and also a way to reach items placed on the top shelves in the library, den or kitchen.  Secondly, the table in the background features a grayed and natural finish that is so popular.  And let’s not forget the current infatuation with all things “global” including maps and globes (as seen here) used as room accessories.  Finally, the American Flag remains a popular decorating item throughout the year.  Display it proudly as they have done in this room, use it in a young teen’s bedroom as a headboard or just let it fly when hung on a pole outdoors.

Ok…I tricked you.  Nothing on the “study guide” was on the test.  But I know you have seen these trends in decorating magazines, showcase houses and furniture stores.  So how did you do?  Did you pass the test?  Please let me know what you think your “grade” is.

 

Home Decor: Color of the month—Citrus

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In honor of these relaxing summer months, instead of just one color for the color of the month honor, I chose a whole color group.  Citrus just seems to define summer, don’t you agree?  Think of thirst quenching lemonade or yummy tropical drinks.  How about lovely shades of strawberry pink or eye catching lime green?  The beautiful color and texture of delicious oranges or the sweetness of pineapples reminds me of lazy afternoons in the sunshine.  Why not introduce some of these citrus colors into your summer decorating?  Here’s how:

This orange lampshade really adds a pop of color to this casual living space (courtesy of Southern Living)
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Lime green paint and fabrics make this a fun room for kids and adults alike
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Combine the fresh citrus colors with a summer motif, such as the pineapple in this Robert Allen @ Home Fabric and you have a winning combination.

Home decor: Color of the month–White

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While some experts may point out that white is not really a color, we all think of it as one of the most important colors we use when decorating our homes.  What with all the weddings, graduations and easy summer living, June just seems the perfect time to choose white as the color of the month.  Think of all the white that surrounds you right now:

  • bridal gowns
  • graduation gowns
  • confirmation and communion outfits
  • white slipcovers
  • white sandy beaches
  • summer clothing such as crisp white cotton blouses for you or yummy eyelet dresses on little girls
  • clean white sheets hanging on the line
  • fluffy white clouds in the sky
  • White sheer curtains blowing in the wind

You get the idea.  And, if you have been shopping for white paint or white fabric then you have probably discovered that, like all colors, white comes in several shades.  You can introduce white into your decorating plans in many different ways:

  • Slipcovers are a great way to have white furniture without worrying about spills and stains.  Choose indoor/outdoor fabrics for even more protection.
  • White lampshades allow lots of light and you can always embellish them with trim, paint etc.
  • White draperies and window treatments offer a clean, crisp look to a sunroom or bedroom for example.  They can also be trimmed with colorful fringe, braid or ribbon for a designer look.
  • White linens will enhance the look of any dinnerware for a beautiful table setting

Here are some white rooms that might inspire you:

photo courtesy of Seattle Homes and Lifestyles
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The key to successfully decorating with white is to add lots of interesting texture in the form of sisal rugs, baskets and warm woods.

White bedroom from Veranda featuring art by Bernd Haussman
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This all white bedroom designed by Suzanne Lovell offers a restful retreat for the owners.

Sitting room courtesy of House to Home
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This white living room is warmed by a fluffy rug and throws and anchored with brown accents found in the furniture, furniture legs and accessories.  And the fireplace doesn’t hurt!

Color of the month: Red

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This time of year you might expect a discussion on a pastel color more associated with spring; something like baby chick yellow, spring green or easter egg blue.  But I am choosing, instead, to talk about RED.  Sexy, sultry, vibrant, energizing RED.

Red is the color of passion but it is also the color of anger and power.  In a dining room, red will increase the appetite but in a bedroom it can induce feelings of control and be overwhelming as opposed to sexy and inviting.  It all depends on the shade of red used.  There is warm barn red, bright fire engine red, rose red with a hint of pink, orange red with a hint of yellow, etc.  

This red and black room designed by Tobi Fairley utilizes a lighter shade of red anchored by black and brightened up with white.
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This red toile fabric from Waverly (pattern Country House) is a deep rich shade of red that would be lovely in a dining room, powder room or guest room.
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This red and white striped chair in a room designed by Effortless Style is casual and happy
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The neutral finishes and accessories allow the red walls of this powder room designed by Martha Angus to stand out. (photo by Grey Crawford courtesy of elle decor)
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So go ahead….step out of your comfort zone and find a spot in your home for a touch of red.  Consider painting walls, hanging red artwork, adding red fabric throw pillows to your sofa or go all out and upholster an entire piece in red.

Color of the month: Brown

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Poor brown.  This yummy color never seems to get much attention.  But think of all the wonderful things you love that are brown:  chocolate (need I say more), beautiful wood, that morning cup of coffee, your favorite leather boots, your father’s beloved recliner.  Brown is seen as solid and reliable and represents all things natural and organic.  In interior design brown is used as a neutral.  It can be paired with just about any color in the color spectrum.

  • Brown and red is a warm color combination.  Imagine a brown leather sofa accented with red suede pillows trimmed with rope.  Very warm and inviting.
  • Brown and turquoise is a popular color combination.  It combines the warmth of brown with the cool tones of turquoise for a color palette that will please most people.  Pop an all brown room with turquoise welting on a chair or top a brown wooden lamp base with a turquoise shade.
  • Brown and yellow is such a pretty combination.  It makes me think of black eyed susans with their yellow leaves and brown centers.  So cheerful.  Maybe this is why yellow works so well in a kitchen next to the brown wood cabinetry. 
  • Brown even works with black.  This duo results in a very strong masculine look.  A black leather platform bed covered with a brown quilt or a graphic rug featuring a brown and black pattern.
  • Pair brown with any shade of green for a fresh, earthy look.  It looks beautiful next to a bright citron green or can be soft and restful when it is paired with forest or leaf green.
  • Brown and white–crisp; brown and pink—sweet; brown and gray—sophisticated.

As you can see, brown is your friend.  Don’t be afraid to add this strong and sophisticated, yet soothing neutral, to your home decor.

Color of the month for November: Teal

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Did you know that teal was the official color for the Ovarian cancer movement?  Like turquoise, teal is a combination of blue and green.  However, it is a softer version due to a bit of gray mixed in to muddy it up a bit.  It is often referred to as teal green (more green than blue) or teal blue (more blue than green).  In color psychology teal signifies reliability and commitment and is thought to promote spirituality.  Wow..that is some powerful color!  The teal color can be introduced into your space via accessories such as artwork, lamps and throw pillows or used in fabrics for draperies, upholstery and bedding.  The good news is that teal coordinates beautifully with many other colors, allowing you to create a beautiful home using this powerful color.  Of course, the popular turquoise and gray are excellent companions to teal but how about red, pink, yellow and every shade of neutral imaginable.  Take a look at these fabrics and notice the varied tones of teal and how it mixes just as well with vivid colors as it does with neutrals.

Teal green is sophisticated with a single neutral accent color in this Robert Allen Fabric
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A brighter verson of teal pops when combined with pink and green in this Amy Butler fabric Notice how beautifully teal works with gold, browns and beiges in this Beacon Hill Stacia fabric
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Color of the month for September: Rust

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According to the calendar we still have a few more days of summer left.  But as the days grow shorter and the nights are just a bit chillier we look for warm colors to take the chill (such as it is at this time of year) off. 

Rust is a color often associated with fall.  It is a combination of orange and brown and is reminiscent of changing leaves, worn metal furniture and old barn siding.  It works beautifully with other muddied colors like olive green, warm gold tones or, for a truly sophisticated look, pair it with black!

Rust stripes are striking when paired with gold and green in this Beacon Hill fabric
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As you begin to replace your summer items with fall colors consider beautiful window treatments in a rusty paisley fabric alongside a chenille sofa topped with throw pillows featuring varying fall colors of green, orange, brown and gold. 

If you prefer an urban touch to your fall decorating but like the warmth rust brings to a room, choose a lighter version such as apricot and combine it with trendy turquoise and brown.

When combined with today’s new neutral, gray, rust is the perfect complimentary color. 

Beacon Hill rustic weave is a fun combination of rust, gray and deep apricot
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However you choose to introduce our color of the month, Rust, into your decorating plans, it is sure to create a warm and inviting feel in your home.

Colors for Home Decorating: Blue

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Blue has long been one of the most popular colors in home decorating.  It is the color most preferred by men and generally evokes feelings of calm and serenity.  Productivity rises in blue rooms.  On the other hand, it can appear cold and depressing and is considered the least appetizing.  I guess that means if you are looking to lose weight, paint your kitchen blue!  Let’s take a look at the many variations of this popular color.

  • Dark and moody blues  include cobalt and navy.  Combined with burgundy and hunter green, these deep rich colors add a sophisticated look to a den, master bedroom, library or home office.  Remember–blue is thought to increase productivity so using it in a home office or home gym may be a good idea.
  • Pastel or “baby blue” is a pretty color that is certainly appropriate for a child’s nursery but can also be used in a sunroom, ladie’s dressing room or a gender neutral guest room. Combine it with other pastel colors or use it as a counterpart to bright or dark colors.  A room decorated with navy, pastel blue and white is very refreshing and grown up.
  • Green blues include turquoise, teal and peacock blue.  These refreshing colors can be combined with orange, green, hot pinks and reds for invigorating combinations.
  • Show your patriotism with a red, white and blue color scheme. 
  • A nautical blue and white combination adds a refreshing look to a pool area or beach house.  Spice it up with bright pops of yellow and red.

You can add blue to your decor without creating a “blue” room.  Beautiful floral fabrics often feature touches of blue in the pattern.  A collection of blue and white dishes is a great way to bring blue into the kitchen or dining room.  Artwork that features the colors of the sky or ocean allows you to enjoy the color blue without committing an entire room to it.  Or, if you are a true blue lover, go ahead and do an entire room in various shades of blue.  (just be sure to mix up the texture for variety)

Colors for home decorating: Unusual and Unique combinations

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It is always fun to step out of your comfort zone a little bit and try an unusual and/or unique color combination in your home.  Depending on your budget and your level of courage, you can decorate an entire room in these combinations or you can choose to add the interesting colors through the use of accessories and artwork.  Some color combinations to consider are:

  1. Brown and red:  These colors together create a warm and inviting room.  A brown leather chair welted in red leather will add a level of sophistication to a library, den or family room.  Rich brown linen draperies that feature brown and red fringe trim is a beautiful way to frame a window.  Use red upholstery and accessories to accent the brown cabinetry in your kitchen.
  2. Turquoise and orange:  This bright and zesty combination is one you probably want to use in small doses.  Consider this combination for a beach house, a small kitchen or a child’s bedroom or play area.  If you are looking to brighten up an all neutral interior for the spring and summer, this is a great way to use turquoise, the color of the year.  Trim pillows with orange ball fringe for a playful look, add a turquoise lamp to a side table, sew a band of floral fabric to a pair of inexpensive linen drapery panels.
  3. Black and cobalt blue:  This is a sophisticated and unexpected combination.  It can certainly be used in a gender neutral guest room.  Outlining a pair of plain blue drapes with a wide black ribbon will add “oomph” to ordinary window treatments.  Black fringe will make a blue floral pillow seem much more important.  Use a black lampshade on a blue lamp base for a rich look. 

Design magazines are full of rooms that have been decorated with unique and unusual colors so check them out for design inspiration.  Artwork and fabrics are also good sources for inspiration.