Thursday, February 18, 2010

THE MODERN RULES OF MIXING IT UP!


Looking through design magazines these days, you really see a mix of patterns, prints and colors. But how do you take that information and incorporate it into your own home without it looking like a circus tent? It can be most confusing and with the endless possibilities available to homeowners the choices are daunting. There are a few rules you can follow to help keep it all in perspective.

A. Odd numbers mix best.Think of choosing patterns in odd numbers, 3, 5, 7. Really tune in to your comfort level. Most designers are more comfortable mixing more patterns than most people.

B. Scale: so important to consider when choosing your patterns. Think of small, medium and large. You don't want your patters to be all the same scale. If you are a newbie, try one small, medium and large one.

C. Design: Patterns come in the form of stipes, plaids, checks, floral, organic etc. You get the picture, start by mixing 3 different types of designs. Play around with diffent designs to see what level you are comfortable at. When you come up with 3, add two more.

D. Placement: Mixing patterns are not only for your sofa and chairs, remember to include you rugs, window treatments, pillows and lamps. You are striving for balance in all elements in your room

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

HURRY TODAY ONLY! OVERSTOCK BEDDING SALE!


Hi All

I wanted to share this with you today! Overstock.com is having a great bedding sale! Not only do you get the great pricing from manufacturers who have inventory left over and need to unload it, you are able to take and additional 10% off on their down bedding! Are your looking to purchase some luxurious silk sheets to share with your loved one on Valentine's Day? No worries, still time to order and get it before the 14th. Look below for the link.....and I would love to hear what home purchases you are making as a Valentine's gift for that "special person"in your life.

http://www.overstock.com/30904/static.html?CID=148833&fp=f&token=148833-14883320100204144651920-1-267ef7&

Monday, February 1, 2010

THINK TWICE ABOUT THAT FAVORITE ACCESSORY!


My last post I talked about some of the ways to find colors that can translate into home decor. So where else can we find inspiration for color? Look around at some of your favorite "D'object de Resistance", those little bits of accessories that you had to have and would find a place for! What are the colors in them and how can they be worked into a room? Need help with picking out the right color match? Take it with you to the paint store, with today's technology you can always do a match on sight! Here are some inspiring plates I fell in love with by Thomas Paul at Velocity Art and Design (866-781-9494)....at $28.00 a set of four they are a steal and a great source of inspiration!

Monday, January 25, 2010

MIDNIGHT GARNET.....FAVORITE NEW COLOR!


My husband and I spent Sunday afternoon at the Wine Expo in Boston with friends and family. This is the primo and largest wine expo in the country! Wine tasting at vendor tables from all over the world was a blast, but the highlight of my day was when I discovered the new Infinity G series convertible, mind you not just for the beauty of the car, but for the unbelievable color!!! How clever to have this beautiful "Merlot" hue on this car sitting in the middle of the wine expo, great marketing ploy! They have me sold, though a convertible in New England is not the most practical. So it got me thinking to why I am so drawn to the red hues? It has been my favorite color since I was a little girl and I wear it constantly. So next time you need some inspiration for color in your home, look in your closet. Many of us are drawn to decorating our homes in the colors we wear! So what is your favorite color to wear? I would love to hear from you!!!!

TREND #4.....REFRESHED


The final of the four trends for 2010 packs a whole lot of punch with bold use of color taking much of it's inspiration from vintage 60" and 70's. Infusing dashes and splashes of a bold single color into a neutral backdrop draws the eye around a room or space to space for a revived and refreshed atmosphere. Think of Crisp Fresh Greens, Lemon Yellow, Orange and Violet mixed with neutrals like navy, beige and white in Missoni knits, Pucci prints and Hermes scarfs. This trend will surely lift your spirits with a fresh dose of optimism. Head to MOMA or your local museum of modern art for inpiration!

Monday, January 11, 2010

Do you have the "Post Holiday Blues?"

Have you been a little down in the dumps since the holidays? This time of year is always a little tough and with most of the country literally "out in the cold" I like to think of "Blue" in a happier context. Enjoy this video of designer Nancy Corzine's Cool Blue Living Room.

Friday, January 8, 2010

Design Trend #3...Sophisticated Simplicity

So in keeping with the economic times it is no surprise to see an increasing trend in getting back to the basics....where a return to simpler times and "less is more" is becoming the current mantra for many. Naturally this is often translated over to design in fashion and home furnishings. Looking at this design trend you will find neutrals, sheer and transparent fabrics, uncluttered simplicity, simple and clean accessories and the emphasis on form and function. Think of the Bauhaus movement, with the 90th anniversary of this movement in 2010, this has become a classic for the Baby Boomers where "form followed function".

Below are some examples...what are your favorites, how do you see yourself applying this trend to your lifestyle?

MET HOME OF THE YEAR BY KARMAN NG/BARCELONA SOFA CIRCA 1930


FABULOUS HEADBOARD


WONDERFUL CHAIRS!


LOVE THE GRAY FIREWALL!


NEUTRAL PALETTE


KELLY HOPPEN DINING ROOM


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