Color cont.

As I look out my office window I am reminded that winter still has something to say.  I, as most people, are done with winter and tired of looking at white.  Although I can say that I am tiring of white snow I realize that white in homes brings a freshness to any room that is inviting and exciting.  

Today we have amazing choices within the white palette that is far from boring.  Even if you decide to have no color in your space it can still be spectacular and interesting.  Just like any design created around the monochromatic theme by adding different hues of whites within the varying, complementary materials any room can have an awe inspiring impact.  

White is classified in the neutral category so its uses can be applied in the same manner.  As you can see in the pictures below even a mostly white room can have some splashes of your favourite colors making it unique to you.

Whether your style is contemporary, country, or formal, white as the main color choice works wonderfully.  Working within the design principles is evermore important when little or no color is being used and if you are going with the monochromatic style.  

White can be used as your overall main color choice if you are showcasing collections, art or anything that you want to stand out.  Because white is considered a neutral it makes a great back drop that enhances your collection without distraction.  The picture below gives a great example.

White is considered the best reliever of pain, it represents reverence, purity, simplicity, cleanliness, peace, innocence, winter, birth, good and sterility.  A person who has an aversion to white color is mostly interested in 'realistic' and tangible things.

So as we are transitioning from winter to spring with all its blooming of fresh colors remember that white is an intriguing year round choice for any space.  Awakening to the colors that make you happy, peaceful, energized, or just content can help give you direction in your overall design in your homes, offices, or any space you spend time in.  May your discovery of color bring you love & prosperity.

2012 Color Trends cont.


Today I have decided to discuss the color yellow.  Why?  By this time of the year most people are crying for the energizing warmth of the sun.  After many weeks of winter robbing us of daylight our solar batteries are running low and we are in serious need of recharging.  Yellow is a color associated with sunshine and can give us the feeling of vitality and energy.  This color is also known to help awaken mental inspiration and stimulates higher mentality.  As we all respond differently to color, ensuring the right tone and balance within your space is essential.

One way to add a temporary splash of this energizing color is to fill a clear bowl or vase with lemons and place it on your counter or table.  Due to the vividness of this color it is not recommended in bedrooms or spaces meant to relax and calm the mind.  Whether you are bold in your application or decide to inject a touch of this warming color is a matter of preference and should be to enrich, not annoy.
May you find warmth and vitality in your life.

2012 Color Trends cont.

The next color I have chosen to write about is orange to warm you from these cold, dreary winter months.
As I write this piece it strikes me that to talk about color during the winter months has some irony to it.  There is very little color to be found during this season yet bringing color into our homes is so easy.  How much color you want in your space can be determined by what you do.  Lots of color, paint is the option.  Splash of color, accessories such as throw pillows, vases, floral arrangements, and art help here.  From a total redo to cost saving touches color can transform your space along with your mood.

Since orange is a stimulating color use in rooms that energy is required or desired, such as the living room, dining room or kitchen makes it a good choice.  These are gathering places that are usually used for entertaining and since the color orange is known for its ability to aid in digestion it only makes sense.  The bedroom is not a place you want to use this color because of it stimulates and this is a space that should be soothing and relaxing.  Orange is a color that represents stability, reassurance and of course warmth.  Orange will have a gentle warming effect if used lightly and is not good for nervous individuals or those easily agitated.  

Color should be used in a way that best suits you and your individuality.  Research shows that color can affect your attitude and the choices of color or combinations of color is significant to your mood.  If you don't know what colors are for you and how they affect you experimenting is a fun way to find out, or you can hire a color professional.  

May color enrich and enliven your home and your life.

A Taste of 2012 Color Trends


When embarking upon the New Year with resolutions for a better year than the previous why not look at how color can change your perspective, your mood and encourage your desired changes.  I will give you a sampling of the different colors, where they are best used and why, over the next few weeks.  
Just because trends dictate what is popular for the season doesn't mean it is best for you or your home design.  There are literally hundreds of colors to choose from making it is possible to find the one right for you.   
Green is associated with: nature, energy, calming, restful, balance, security, and stability.  Green is a good color for bedrooms and living rooms, yet too much can make people too complacent.  As you can see in these pictures the amount and hue does have an effect on how you feel in the room.  Listen to your inner voice to know what color, amount of color, and hue of color is right for you.  If you feel overwhelmed with the prospect of color choices hire a design professional to guide you through the process.  
May 2012 find your home a space that inspires and motivates you to fulfill your resolutions. 

Green, From Farm to Forest

Greens, ranging from celery and asparagus to fir and fern, allow homeowners to bring the comforting feelings of the world outside into the world within. According to Zimmer, dining rooms and kitchens are the "natural" spots for in vogue greens, but the hue is also at home in family rooms and bedrooms.


Want to know about certain colors or interior design tips let me know.

If you work from home creating the right space can be the difference between being distracted or being productive.  As a person who works from home much of the time, I understand the challenge of staying focused on work matters and not allowing the personal 'to-do list' to distract you.  By having a dedicated and personally appealing office space this becomes less of an issue.
As you can see in this photo the draperies help to bring in interest and personal style without being boring or over-stimulating.  There are a variety of ways to make your home office, work for you.  Having colours that have enough energy to keep you focused, yet not to energizing that you are worn out before you get to lunch.  Keep your space clear of clutter and organized for easy access to anything needed to successfully complete your job.  Have some art on the walls that motivate you and bring out your creativity.  A real plant or two is great to keep your air quality at a maximum, as long as you enjoy caring for them.
We have enough stress in our lives and by designing a home office that balances creative energy and productivity without over-taxing us, work becomes an enjoyable part of the day.  If you feel overwhelmed with the task of creating a home office that is best suited for you, hiring a professional designer is the solution.
May you find the style that brings out the best of you in your work.

With a New Year approaching we are given the chance to review, renew and recreate ourselves.  This is usually done with a determination to go to the gym, buying new clothes for a new look or a simple resolve to be a better person.  One area that can often be overlooked is your office, your bedroom or any space you call your own.  Transforming this space will surely have an impact on your personal goals for the upcoming year.

Spaces have a life of their own.  Pay particular attention to what the room offers, along with what you need from the room.  This will guide you to the right colours, floor layout, and personal touches that will make your heart sing every time you enter the room.  

If you feel overwhelmed with all the possibilities, bring in a Designer to be your guide.  A professional Designer will help to narrow down your options to what will work in the space and what will communicate to your personal needs and desires.  

Let your renewed space be the starting point for a personal transformation to the better you.

Happy New Year & Happy Designing!