Designers are already abuzz over 2023 paint color trends. Here, 17 industry experts let us in on what’s popular, what’s working and what’s out when it comes to top interior paint colors for the year ahead.
Greens reflect nature and there is a shade of it for everyone,” notes Chicago designer Sarah Montgomery. (Photo: Ryan McDonald)
Bringing the outdoors in.
“I use different shades of green and teal in every room. It can create a pop or serves as a backdrop for other colors to stand out.”
“A cozy mauve like Benjamin Moore’s Cashmere Wrap is a perfect example of a color that can flow throughout the home,” says Hudson, New York, designer Nicole Fisher. (Photo: Helena Palazzi)
Carrying color throughout the home.
“Clients are still being adventurous with color. Instead of one bold room, we’re seeing it throughout. It’s about creating beauty in every space, not just one.”
“Blue and greens are our go-tos right now,” says Denver-based designer Andrea Schumacher. In this office she used a navy from Benjamin Moore to add rich color. (Photo: Roger Davies)
Looking beyond gray.
“We love color and always will. Gray is a trend we are definitely over. Instead, we use a lot of blues and greens.”
“Sophisticated and refined only begin to describe this room in Sherwin Williams’ Agreeable Gray,” says Los Angeles- and Orlando-based designer John McClain. (Photo: Lauren Pressy)
Using the “Fab Five.”
“The neutral and classic combination of black, white, gray, green and brown will always provide the perfect pallet for every interior. They are rooted in nature and therefore resonate with the core of humanity.”
Silver throw pillows and drapes set off the blue lacquer walls in this room designed by New York designer Jamie Drake.
Pairing blue with silver.
“Pale and mid-blue accents paired with white and silver resonate with so many. The popularity is because it is gender neutral, crisp and like fresh air.”
“From the kitchen to the bathroom to the living room, the color green is a strong player,” says Los Angeles designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard, who used Benjamin Moore’s Weeping Willow in this kitchen.
Going green.
“Green in almost every shade is having the most amazing comeback. The richer shades like emerald and forest are really strong and will be here to stay for a while.”
Designer Elisa Baran Tréan used Farrow & Ball Cabbage White (No. 269) and JH Wallpaints 103 + 114 in this recent kitchen project. (Photo: Jared Kuzia)
“In California, some clients are requesting whites, creams and beiges with a subtle amount of texture on the walls. This will require limewash or plaster to achieve the desired vibe. People really need a sense of calm at home, and this combination has a bright and airy, yet warm feel to it.”
A Bernhardt bed is framed by molding in a matte lilac bedroom by builder Divco and designers Glenn Midnet and Morgan Bratcher. The walls are swathed in Sherwin Williams Quest Gray. (Photo: Venjhamin Reyes Photography)
Make way for purple.
“Purple is a color we’ve rarely seen used in bedroom designs, but we are expecting more of. Color psychology has proven purples are romantic, peacefuland luxurious. The buzz surrounding Digital Lavender as the 2023 Color of the Year has only reassured us that purple is a definite for 2023 design.”
Dark trim and casework in Benjamin Moore Black HV190 and ceiling coffers in Benjamin Moore White Dove pair for a statement-making dining room in this family home. (Photo: Thomas Kuoh)
Turn to timeless color combos.
“The power of black next to white stands the test of time. Because they are both neutrals, the combination is bold and dramatic without being brash. Black can bring wow factor as a contrast window sash or passage door and can also highlight architectural detailing that would otherwise go unnoticed.”
White will never go out of style, but the key is to add pops of color for interest, advises Hillary Stamm. (Photo: Lauren Pressey)
Keep the color contrasts coming.
“Clients are looking for a timeless elegance but with contrast and a touch of something that creates a special and unique look and space to call their own.”
—Hillary Stamm, HMS Interiors | Manhattan Beach, California
“While there is a time and place for quiet, neutral greige, we’re advocating for something a bit more opinionated—we look for color with a point of view,” notes Kathleen Walsh. This library in Greenwich, Connecticut features Benjamin Moore Symphony Blue. (Photo: John Bessler)
A new twist on brown and blue.
“We’ve noted that brown and blue is slowly making a comeback. The combination allows us to easily mix antique and modern; however, it’s notably different than how we used in the ‘90s. We’re going way more saturated in the blues, picking up on deep complex hues for a more luminous, dynamic color.”
“While neutrals can sometimes be seen as playing it safe, venturing into bolder shades keeps a room contemporary and dramatic,” notes Leslie Murphy. This primary bedroom project features a Benjamin Moore Soot. (Photo: Lisa Hubbard)
Channel deep charcoals and browns.
“Heading into 2023, we’re really into darker and dramatic shades, such as deep charcoals and browns. These tones are not only elegant and upscale when complemented with tonal furnishings and accessories, but theybring a warm and comfortable feel to the space.”
Sometimes, it all boils down to the basics, as San Francisco Noz Nozawa notes about pairing oranges and blues. This Victorian parlor features C2 Tortoise with burnishing and gold resin drip by Caroline Lizarraga. (Photo: Colin Price Photography)
Opposites attract.
“Across all eras in design, I have always loved orange-red-brick tones and teal-blue tones together. From a color theory standpoint, these tones are perfect opposites on the color wheel; but I think there’s something so iconic about this pairing—from Southwestern indigenous jewelry pairing coral and turquoise stones together, to every Hot-and-Cold water faucet.”
Peignoir by Farrow and Ball graces the wainscoting of designer Susie Novak’d own dining room, where the muted rose is paired with gray floral wallpaper by Cole & Son. (Photo: Thomas Kuoh)
Pink is sticking around.
“Dusty pinks, salmon, and taupes. These warm neutrals, in particular, really came up in the last couple of years or so, and I think are nowconsidered mainstays. There is something so soothing about a dusty pink that also feels special and unique.”
Virginia Toledo likens the timelessness of neutrals and blacks to the appeal of a pair of cream linen pants or perfect little black dress. Here, a living space project features Benjamin Moore Winter White with Benjamin Moore Decorator White. (Photo: Jacob Snavely)
Play nice with neutrals.
“Neutrals became the response to living with greige for so many years. We find that these tones, paired with crisp whites and a dash of black, never go out of style.”
—Virginia Toledo, Toledo Geller | Franklin Lakes, New Jersey
Are you ready to decorate your home for fall? Celebrate the season with these wonderful fall decorating ideas, tips and inspiration.
By Jenna Kate
HOW TO DECORATE FOR FALL
Decorating for fall is all about bringing the colors and warmth of the season into your home. Colors such as burgundy, rusty red, plum, aubergineu, deep greens, mustard and bronze are a nod to the changing colors outside.
Start by switching out summery throw pillows for ones with richer colors and more texture. Add throw blankets to your couch for family members to easily cozy up.
Adding candles with fall scents such as apple or pumpkin spice will instantly transform your home for the season, making it feel cozy and inviting, even if you’ve done minimal decorating.
WHEN SHOULD YOU START DECORATING FOR FALL?
September, once the temperatures start to cool down, is the perfect time to start decorating for fall. With kids back to school, the summer is officially over and it’s time to embrace a new season! Of course, some people like to get a head start in late August and others like to wait until the much cooler weather in October.
AFFORDABLE WAYS TO DECORATE YOUR HOUSE FOR FALL
Bring the outdoors in – use branch clippings and greenery from your yard
Add layers and texture to your couch by switching out throw pillows and adding throw blankets
Fill a bowl with apples, mini pumpkins or another seasonal fruit or vegetable
Put fall scented candles in every room
Fill a dollar store hurricane vase with acorns from your yard
Use pinecones as decorative accents
FALL LIVING ROOM DECORATING IDEAS
I like to start with a color scheme when I am decorating for the autumn season. You can stick to traditional fall colors like burnt orange, amber and rusty reds or go the more non-traditional route with saturated blues, greens and plums.
Decorating for fall doesn’t have to mean completely redoing your decor. By simply switching out a few throw pillows and adding a few decorative touches to your mantel or coffee table, you’ll embrace the season without overwhelming your living room.
For mantel decor, layer in greenery or faux leaves with mini pumpkins (real or faux). Finally, add ambience with candles in your favorite fall scent.
The most livable interiors are those that can’t be pinned to a specific era or decade, but integrate elements from the history of home design. The desire to mix old and new can be sparked by the architecture (or lack thereof) of your home, an heirloom, or a thrift store crush. Here are some tips that will help you mix old and new furniture to create a layered interior that transcends time.
What is Vintage vs. Antique?
The common definition of an antique is a piece that is more than 100 years old. Anything more than 20 years old but less than 100 is usually considered vintage. Modern may refer to midcentury modern design from the 20th century, or be used as a synonym for current and contemporary, which generally refers to anything that is less than 20 years old up to brand spanking new.
Find the Right Balance
“When it comes to mixing antiques with modern pieces, almost anything goes,” says interior designer Erin Williamson of Erin Williamson Design. “A home should be a collection of things you love and find meaningful, not a catalog of coordinated furniture. That said, it helps to spread the patina throughout a space so that the juxtaposition between old and new feels fresh and surprising rather than shabby.”
Williamson emphasizes the importance of considering scale when placing furniture. “Especially antiques,” she says, “since they were made to fit different spaces and lifestyles. Many dark, heavy wood pieces don’t float comfortably and would be happiest on or near a wall. Conversely, very light and leggy pieces should be placed next to items with more mass so that the room doesn’t feel nervy and uncomfortable. A balance of proportion across space offers a lot of leeway to run wild with prints, colors, finishes, and styles.”
Form Versus Function
When considering whether to keep or integrate an older piece into a modern design, it’s important to think about both form and function. Antiques often display fine craftsmanship that is harder to come by today and feature intricate wood carving, marquetry, or decorative flourishes that you won’t find in run-of-the-mill modern-day furniture. (One exception to this is Shaker-style furniture, which has been embracing the same clean lines for centuries and still looks current in even the most minimalist modern interiors. )
For interior designer Lisa Gilmore of Lisa Gilmore Design, successfully mixing modern and antiques is “all about playing with your lines, making sure you have a healthy mix of streamlined and curves.” Gilmore says she mixes metal finishes “to give the design legs” and keep it from looking dated.
Repurpose and Refinish
While nothing beats the rich patina of a quality antique or vintage piece in terms of aesthetics and value, the truth is that not all antiques are valuable or need to be preserved in their original state. If you inherit your grandparents’ old dining table, stumble on an antique bed frame at the flea market, or find a thrift store armoire with great bones but a dated finish, take a step back and imagine how it would look stripped to its bones, refinished, or transformed with a brand new coat of paint.
“Fresh upholstery can give antiques a modern feel without sacrificing vintage charm,” Williamson says. “If you fancy a print, consider the shape of the piece and decide whether to play with or against the form. Stripes on a curved settee will highlight its shape while florals on a straight back chair might add some softness.” Williamson notes that it’s a good idea to have the springs and batting refreshed. “New materials can go a long way towards adding contemporary comfort,” she says.
Unify with Color
One of the challenges of mixing old and new pieces is figuring out how to make the mix of periods and styles work together while retaining an overall sense of cohesion. Even the most eclectic interiors need balance and harmony. While mixing wood finishes and metals is an art in itself, sometimes the easiest way to integrate disparate elements is to unite them using the same color palette. If you a fan of shabby chic interiors, you can create coherence by painting thrift store finds like nightstands, dining room chairs, tables, and dressers in a creamy white, and add white overstuffed armchairs and sofas. This will make it simple to marry styles and periods by keeping the focus on form.
Statement Pieces
If you are looking to create maximum impact in a modern room with an antique piece, go bold with a large-scale statement piece like an antique armoire, a Baroque-style or Art Deco headboard, or a massive vintage farm table. Make these pieces functional and appropriate for modern lifestyles by painting, refinishing, refurbishing interiors, or adding upholstery to an antique bed frame or armchair to bring it a sense of modern comfort. This strategy works particularly well in a neutral space that needs a focal point or a sense of drama that is achieved by introducing contrast and juxtaposition. This same formula can work for large-scale decorative pieces, like a giant French gilded mirror or a massive vintage rug to anchor an otherwise contemporary living room.
Accent Pieces
Not everyone has the appetite or budget for creating large-scale drama with a splashy antique focal point. If you love antiques but feel intimidated by buying antique furniture, start with small furniture pieces such as end tables and wooden stools, or decorative pieces like antique French gilded mirrors, lighting fixtures, and rugs. “For me, a really large antique/vintage rug sets the tone immediately,” says Gilmore, “and you can have lots of fun adding and layering around it.”
With the work from home movement transitioning to a choice, rather than a necessity, more consideration is being given to a considered space decicated to productive, professional and inspiring space in which to work at home. If you’ve put the design and fitout of your home office space on the back burner, now is the time to take stock on what works, what doesn’t work and what you’re no longer prepared to put up with for eight hours a day. We talked to Porter Davis lead interior designer Stephanie Atanasovski about what makes a great residential workspace and just how to style your home office to perfection.
1. INCLUDE ELEMENTS THAT PROMOTE CALM AND CREATIVITY
With many now finding themselves working from home, it’s important to ensure that your home office feels like a nice space to spend time in and most importantly somewhere you can feel productive.Plants are a great way to make your home office feel more alive – move some of your household plants from other rooms into your office, so that you can see some greenery from your desk.
Photographer: Louise Roche
Lighting is also an essential element here to lift your mood and also to create a feeling of separation between your home office and your relaxation spaces. Make sure your office is light and bright all day and then contrast that by utilizing lower levels of light such as dim lamps and candles in your relaxation spaces.It’s also a great idea to ensure fresh air is flowing through your space to keep you feeling rejuvenated. If you can, open any windows and bi-fold doors to let fresh air in.
Photographer: Nicki Dobrzynski
2. ORGANIZATION IS KEY
Organisation in your home office is the key to productivity! You can never really have enough storage space in the office.Additional storage space in the form of drawers, filing cabinets, boxes and shelving will help keep everything in order and keep your workspace clutter-free.There are a variety of different storage solutions on the market these days, that look stylish too.
3. MAKE IT PERSONAL
Photographs, inspirational quotes and imagery are always great additions to the home office. This is a space where you want to spark creativity and it is important to be in a positive space to mitigate stress.Print out some quotes that make you feel good and stick them around your desk where you can easily read them.
Photographer: Elouise Van Riet-Gray
4. COLOUR YOUR MOOD
Cool blues and natural green hues are soothing options that will help create a calm space in your home office. You can incorporate different colours in your office with accessories such as cushions, prints, lamps and frames.Add a pop of bright colour in the form of one or two accessories as well, such as a bright yellow lamp or candle, to promote a high energy work environment.
Photographer: John Downs
5. NO HOME OFFICE? NO PROBLEM!
Not everyone has the luxury of a dedicated home office, but the good news is you can create a workspace in any home. As long as you have a desk or bench of the adequate height and chair (if you prefer to sit), then you’re on your way! Ensure your chosen desk has suitable storage space for papers and stationary and that you are close to a power source. To avoid straining your eyes, access to adequate lighting is a must. If you don’t have a natural light source, opt for extended desk lamps.
Photographer: Dave Wheeler
HOME OFFICE IN YOUR BEDROOM?
If you do choose to set up a working space in your bedroom, it is important that you don’t associate the space with sleeping! Counter this by ensuring the desk is well away from the bed and not facing it if possible.
From paying a lower price for higher quality furniture to reducing your ecological footprint, purchasing used furniture has some serious advantages.
In this post, we highlight the main benefits of buying used furniture and offer tips and tricks for what to look for when you’re in the market for used furniture.
The Benefits of buying used furniture
Buying used furniture is often more cost effective, sustainable, and ethical than purchasing brand new items. Learn more about the benefits below.
More cost effective
Even compared against fast furniture, which can run ridiculously cheap, when you purchase a used furniture item you will likely spend less money. Oftentimes used furniture has entered the marketplace because someone just wants it out of their home! Individuals will generally price the item to sell.
Supports your local economy
When you buy from a local small store or individual that lives in your neighborhood, you are directly supporting your local economy. By making a local purchase you are putting money directly back into your community, and a strong local economy means a healthier, more vibrant community.
Better bang for your buck
In general cheap furniture is well, cheap. It’s not made well and won’t last very long. However, high quality new furniture can be unaffordable. When shopping for used furniture, you can often find reasonably priced, high quality items. Although it may be someone’s trash, it can truly be your treasure.
More sustainable
The furniture industry is one of the least sustainable, most pollutive industries on the planet. Each year Americans discard more than12 million tons of furniture and furnishings, 80 percent of which end up in the landfill. Additionally, producing new items means harvesting and creating new materials, such as wood and plastic. Purchasing new furniture directly contributes to the fossil fuel industry and to deforestation. If you purchase a used item, new materials need not be generated.
Defends human rights
It’s probably pretty clear by now that cheap furniture actually comes at a pretty high price. Not only is it often low quality furniture that doesn’t last long and which wreaks havoc on the environment, but cheap furniture also comes at a human rights cost. Cheap furniture means cheap labor. Furniture production can involve unfair wages or even child or forced labor. You can avoid supporting human rights violations, by purchasing a used item.
I thought it would be fun to share the idea that your zodiac sign could very well have something to do with the way you design your home. Thank you Vogue Australia for a whimsical look at home decor.
Say what you will about star signs, there’s something fun about toying with the idea that our lives are written out for us. From our favourite clothing items to the travel destinations we’re naturally drawn to, our zodiac might just have some hold over the things we hold dear. The same applies to our interiors. We enlisted the help of the The French Bedroom Company, whose experts — in both interiors and horoscopes — broke down each and every star sign and what they mean for our design aesthetic. From tidy and organised Virgo to elegant and traditional Capricorn, see how your interiors are written in the stars below.
Libra
September 23 – October 22
Element: Air Ruling body: Venus
Ruling the sign of Libra is Venus, making those with this sign fond of expensive, material things. Their lives and their homes need to be enriched by music, art, and any beautiful places they visit. Although they love luxury detailing and fabrics, a Libra desires a home that’s a balance of elegance and tranquility. To achieve this, unorthodox pairings such as chandelier lamps on up-cycled tables or fresh flowers in antique vases, are a common find. A Libra doesn’t want their space to be too over the top. Avoiding garish prints and modern designs, a Libra constructs themselves a peaceful home which they fill with elegant mirrors, scatter cushions and romantic paintings and prints, while their sought after colour palette is made up of Champagne pink, lilac and light grey. Any room decorated by this zodiac sign is sure to be a lavishly pretty boudoir that portrays absolute serenity and warmth.
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Photographed by Kasia Gatkowska
Virgo
August 23 – September 22
Element: Earth Ruling body: Mercury
The efficient and practical Virgo needs their house to reflect their desire for organisation and simplicity. Keeping their colour palette neutral, earthy tones are loved by this sign as they allows them to feel calm and relaxed. However, for those willing to add a slight touch of colour, peach, light blue or olive green are common choices. A Virgo’s design style is one of minimalism qualities, avoiding mis-matched or thrifted furniture which, to them, represent mess. Wooden or tiled flooring throughout also mean their home can always be cleaned quickly, avoiding the antagonising idea of a cream carpet turning mocha. In a home where everything has a place, Virgos do their best to avoid adding clutter in the form of unnecessary trinkets and keep a consistent theme of artwork throughout the house so that each piece sits harmoniously together. A Virgo’s living space is perhaps not the most comfortable, but it is definitely one of the most peaceful and most satisfying to the eye.
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Photographed by Anson Smart
Taurus
April 20 – May 20
Element: Earth Ruling body: Venus
Ruled by the planet of love and luxury, Venus, it’s no surprise that a Taurus’ home oozes romance. From their chosen colour palette of cream, soft pink, copper and gold to their elegant boudoir inspired furnishings, every element of their interior focuses on achieving the ‘wow’ factor they crave. This stubborn sign won’t settle for anything less than perfect. Quality is everything and even the smallest detail has to be flawless. Relaxing in style is what this sign does best, and as a sensual and tactile individual, touch is the most important of all their senses. Silks, velvets and cosy cashmere showcase the Taurus’ fine taste but also provide the comfort that is at the heart of all interior decisions this decadent personality makes. House-proud and hedonistic, a Taurus’ home is also likely to dazzle with a sophisticated French opulence made up of sumptuous furniture, mirrors and chandeliers.
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Photographed by Kasia Gatkowska
Scorpio
October 23 – November 21
Element: Water Ruling body: Pluto
Scorpio-born are passionate, determined and decisive and once they know what they want, will not stop until they have reached their goal. Scorpios have no interest in fad trends or artificial decor; they want the real deal and for their home to reflect their honesty and self awareness. As a result, those with this zodiac sign express their character by the details in their possessions and, intrigued by its history, are often drawn to mid-century gothic or industrial architecture. Dark colours such as emerald green and plum purple, and mixed textures including fur, silk and wood are much-loved, while a jungle of house plants are frequently found in Scorpio homes. This sign need to be submerged in nature – artificial plants or plastic furnishings are simply not good enough.
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Photographed by Valentina Sommariva
Sagittarius
November 22 – December 21
Element: Fire Ruling body: Jupiter
Sagittarius is the philosophical defender of the galaxy who, armed with a bow and arrow, is a keen traveller, curious about the wider world and what it has to offer. This sign’s greatest treasure is their freedom and if they could, they’d bottle up a piece of every region they’ve ever visited to keep close to them. An adventurous Sagittarius needs to have everything they love on display, which makes their interior style hard to define. With clear bohemian influences however, a Sagittarius will gravitate towards natural materials and subdued colours. Mismatched jewelled tones, exotic patterns and prints and upcycled, hand-crafted furniture that’s been collected over time will be found in and around their home. As much as this sign loves their humble abode, a Sagittarius is far more interested in the great outdoors. Maps of foreign lands take pride of place on their walls alongside souvenirs and postcards, which together continue to enlighten this zodiac on cultures from all corners of the globe, even when they’re at home. Those with Sagittarius as their star sign wear their heart on their sleeve and their home is a reflection of their wild character and obsession with our planet.
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Photographed by Anson Smart
Pisces
February 19 – March 20 Element: Water Ruling body: Neptune
The mind of a Pisces is a busy one, crowded with fantasies, questions and ideas, therefore they like to keep their home as calm and relaxed as possible to allow them to recharge their batteries when needed. As an artistic sign with a fine aesthetic eye, a Pisces’ home is a sanctuary of aromas, crystals and comfort – expect to find plants, salt lamps and furnishings with spiritual ties. Muted and earthy shades and subtle pink and peach tones are preferred over loud colours, while bold patterns and garish prints are avoided at all costs. A Pisces’ personal space is frequently so seductive it’s difficult for both visitors and Pisces themselves to leave. Simplicity is key to those with this zodiac, their imaginations are alone wild enough to light the room.
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Photographed by Anson Smart
Leo
July 23 – August 22
Element: Fire Ruling body: Sun
As the kings and queens of the jungle, a Leo is the life and soul of every party. Needing space to show off their indulgence in the finer things, a Leo designs their home as regal and as loud as themselves. Expensive textiles and deep colours, and of course gold highlights wherever possible showcase this sign’s flashy but classy taste. There is nothing minimal or simplistic about a Leo’s life or their interiors. These natural born leaders can find it extremely difficult to resist the things they want, which, in the home, can include oversized cushions made using the most lavish fabrics and large sofas or beds in rich, statement colours. Leos won’t want you to leave their home so will have everything you need and so much more to entertain.
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Gemini
May 21 – June 20
Element: Air Ruling body: Mercury
A Gemini’s changeable and open mind makes them creative and keen to communicate, and born with a wish to experience everything there is out there, a Gemini likes to submerge themselves and their home in memories and keepsakes. Every room in their home is different too; they have no distinct interior style but instead a collection of everything they love in one place. Eclectic and vibrant, old and new, a Gemini’s home is full of prints, trinkets and wall hangings, which all inject the bold, bright colours of the rainbow. Ruled by Mercury, the planet of technology, a Gemini must have the latest gadgets too. Despite finding numerous ways to store their many belongings, an inquisitive Gemini needs to be careful not to collect too much. Keeping a space clear will allow this indecisive sign to change up their home to their next desired style – which even they can’t keep up with.
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Capricorn
December 22 – January 19 Element: Earth Ruling body: Saturn
A sign that represents time and responsibility, and is very serious by nature, Capricorn is often seen as the father of the zodiac. With a timeless sense of style, Capricorns are big on traditional, comfortable home decor. Those with a Capricorn sign are attracted to furniture that has a stately feel – think large armoires, leather sofas, or cabinets full of crystal or fine china. Their style is not trend driven; they know what they like and it needs to be practical, economical and reliable. Despite this, Capricorn-born individuals do still lust after elegant details to admire.This hard-working sign values great craftsmanship and hand-worked touches, and honours those who took time and patience beautifully building the furniture they’ve purchased. A Capricorn’s appreciation of quality and of possessions that stand the test of time makes their home a sanctuary that’s classic and heartwarming.
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Photographed by Helenio Barbetta
Cancer
June 21 – July 22
Element: Water Ruling body: Moon
Like crabs, who rely on their hard exterior for protection, the home of a Cancer is their safe sanctuary. Sensitive and caring deeply about matters of the family and their home, this star sign is drawn towards quaint and cosy interior styles made up of one-of-a-kind, mismatched finds. Cancers have a great eye for spotting rare and well desired reworked designs and antiques. When you step foot inside a Cancerian home, don’t be surprised to see photos of all of their loved ones too. These creative souls need their own treasure cove and often opt for a neutral colour palette with tiny aspects of silver, light pink and blue. Their comfy, clean home also pays close attention to every minor detail, from their cutlery to their soap dispenser. Loyal, thrifty Cancers would always choose to buy local than from the high-street too, as they admire the love and craftsmanship that goes into every unique piece they buy.
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Photographed by Anson Smart
Aries
March 21 – April 19
Element: Fire Ruling body: Mars
As the first sign in the zodiac, Aries always mark the beginning of something new and exciting. A style conscious Aries is a firm believer in keeping their home a blank canvas – sticking to clean colours and avoiding permanent fixtures. This allows them to express the latest must-haves in the form of artwork or accessories and then change them up for the next on-trend innovation without any hassle. An enthusiastic and energetic character, an Aries needs to stay entertained, so ensuring their space is full of stimulation is important. This is achieved by including plenty of textures and avoiding dull colours wherever possible. Aries are drawn towards elegant, yet vibrant shades such as fresh oranges or deep blues, which sit harmoniously alongside timeless neutral tones. The life of an Aries is constantly filled with social engagements, however those with this star sign are also lovers of their own space. To create a haven perfect for Aries, think open spaces, large sofas and beds and private areas to which they can retreat.
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Photographed by Anson Smart
Aquarius
January 20 – February 18 Element: Air Ruling body: Uranus
Although they can easily adapt to the energy that surrounds them, Aquarius-born have a deep need to be alone and away from others in order to restore their power. This means it’s essential that their home is a haven of harmony and tranquillity. As the water–bearer sign, the Aquarius sign loves vibrant hues and colors of the ocean, like blue, green, violet and indigo. Their homes incorporate all elements of life too; often filled with vases and soothing Zen fountains. As an air sign, roomy space with lots of ventilation is dreamed of by an Aquarius too. This sign’s design style is avant-garde and unconventional, yet also ensures the latest gadgets look right at home. Hand painted details, DIY fixtures and ridiculous patterns are at the core of an Aquarius’s home. This sign has a great eye for exciting artwork that provokes conversation too, and sometimes even their own work makes the walls. Thanks to ruling planet Uranus, Aquarius-born have a visionary quality. Capable of perceiving the future and knowing exactly what they want to be doing five or ten years from now, these interior designers are sure to choose something that will awaken and inspire them for years to come.
Is it just me or is spring and the thought of summer hitting different this year? After a long winter of social distancing and lockdowns, the prospect of sunnier days ahead (literally) is getting a lot of people through — myself included. What does all this mean for the design of our homes though? WATCH7 Spring and Summer Home Trends You Need to Know Nowhttps://imasdk.googleapis.com/js/core/bridge3.453.0_en.html#goog_725017240Volume 0% X
The advent of a new season almost always brings along with it a freshman class of design trends just begging to be brought into our homes to make them prettier, more organized, and even more functional. Get ready because, according to the designers I talked to for this article, there’s a lot of stylish stuff to look forward to right now. Some of these home trends are somewhat established, while others are new to the scene but sure to be absolutely everywhere before the sun sets on summer. Try one; try ‘em all. If you need me, I’ll be sipping a Hugo Spritz in my rattan-covered sunroom.
Credit: Minette Hand
All the Accessories
Get ready to welcome a more-is-more attitude to your entire home because decorative accents are back and better than ever. Collectibles and tchotchkes, which were once reserved for strategically styling the shelves of bookcases, are now dotting every room, and, if the rise of trends like maximalism and #cluttercore decor is any indicator, homes are about to get a bit more crowded (in a good way).
“Our new Zoom lifestyle brought with it the need for styled backdrops and social media moments, and those added accessories are here to stay,” say Everick and Lisa Brown, the husband-wife design duo behind Everick Brown Design. “Our clients are looking for ways to add pops of color and dimension to a room, which is driving the demand for art, books, objects, and accents.”
Consider this your official permission to pull out all the travel souvenirs and trinkets you put into storage under the guise of minimalism — or simply the excuse you need to go searching for a few more bits and bobs.
If you take a pulled-back, objective look at the aesthetics trending in design these days (ahem, grandmillennial style and warm minimalism, anyone?), they all have one thing in common: well-worn wood. From vintage French provincial nightstands to expansive 19th-century farm tables, wooden pieces with perfectly aged patinas are bigger than ever this season.
“Raw or reclaimed wood is a quintessential way to bring warmth and organic beauty to design,” says designer Amy Peltier of Peltier Interiors. “The tones and imperfections of raw or reclaimed wood add their own unique dimensions to your spring interior design.”
Another perk of this trend? It’s totally sustainable and eco-minded. Think of it this way: You’re skipping the store in favor of shopping secondhand and giving a previously-loved piece a new lease on life. Plus, with tons of shipping and supply issues due to COVID-19 still impacting the design industry, it’s a great way to furnish or upgrade your house right now instead of waiting months for a brand-new item.
Put down the paint brush, pick up the… paper? Yep, you heard right; wallpaper is back, baby! Before you cringe, know that this isn’t grandma’s toile (though it could be and that’s awesome, too). Modern patterns, faux-texture, and easy application make the 2021 version of wallpaper feel, on the whole, very fresh.
“Wallpaper is everywhere right now,” says Christina Kim, founder and designer at Christina Kim Interior Design. “Whether it’s used on a ceiling, on the back of a bookcase, or as a beautiful Zoom backdrop, wallpaper is absolutely transformative, and I think we’re all in the mood for transformation currently. Stick to small or mid-scale patterns to add a punch to your room without overwhelming the space.”
If you’re a commitment-phobe when it comes to home decor, fear not. You can still get in on this seemingly permanent design trend. More and more companies are launching temporary wallpaper lines, which has helped to make the application more mainstream. “Peel-and-stick wallpaper has been updated to reflect modern textures and patterns,” says Peltier. “It’s a quick and affordable way to update your decor without having to make a huge commitment. You can find anything from bold oversized florals and subtle grasscloths to edgy animal prints.”
With the world slowly but surely safely opening back up, hosting a small group of loved ones is going to be top-of-mind for nearly everyone this summer. Translation: Your wishlist is about to be 99 percent entertaining essentials.
“Thanks to dining restrictions, the pandemic has inspired a whole new wave of entertaining from home,” says the Browns. “Entertaining essentials are going to be in huge demand this season as well as accessories that help people make better use of bonus spaces — like sunrooms and screened-in porches — for the summer.”
Grab a few crowd pleasers like a colorful set of drinking glasses, chic melamine dishware (perfect for outdoors!), or that killer fire pit you’ve had your eye on all year.
If there’s one favorite material in the design world right now, it’s probably rattan. Made from stems of palm, rattan furniture is often associated with outdoor furniture, but rattan’s role has expanded further and further in the home, thanks to modern silhouettes and diverse design applications.
“I love the influx of rattan furnishings we are seeing for spring and summer,” says Kim. “I especially like when the earthy material is used in otherwise modern settings in interesting fresh curves or sleek shapes.”
Go big with a rattan chair in your living room or chic wardrobe with rattan doors in your bedroom. On the flip side, you can keep it subtle and seasonal by swapping your lamp shades for scalloped rattan versions or investing in a set of rattan chargers for your outdoor dining table. It’s up to you!
Credit: Cathy Pyle
Calming Colors
Remember the long winter I mentioned above? Well, it gave rise to a slew of new favorite shades that evoke the calm and ease of the outdoors, even when you’re stuck inside. “We’re seeing earthy colors such as sage green, taupe, and dusty blues everywhere this spring and summer,” says Peltier. “Bringing in colors that remind us of nature can help create a calming sanctuary indoors.”
Try swapping some of your accessories — bedsheets, throw blankets, or couch pillows — for styles in these shades for a subtle yet noticeable change in your environment. Typically chill rooms, like your bedroom or bathroom, are usually the perfect space for shades like this, but who couldn’t benefit from a shot of calm in a home office nook or kitchen, too?
When it comes to furniture DIYs, most ideas are simply surface level. But these pieces didn’t just get painted or stained — they got entirely new second lives.
Here is an example of utilizing a barn door by adding updated hardware and a Full Headboard/Footboard to create a bench
Taking an existing dining set and adding reclaimed wood to the top to add a farmhouse style to an everyday table.
Antique twin headboard into a bench.
Desk into 2 night stands.
MCM hutchtop into a bar.
Vintage drysink with an added window for that farmhouse style.
Basic dresser into a stacked luggage look & another desk into end tables.
An antique secretary desk & a radio into a bar.
There are so many ways to re-purpose, recycle & renew pieces of furniture. The best part is that these pieces are made with a high level of craftsmanship and have a lot of life left.
So much better than buying new, pressed wood and mass produced furniture.
Not only are you creating a unique piece but you are also recycling and helping create a more sustainable world.
It’s hard to decide on a good color to paint your furniture.
So, today I am sharing a few colors from just some of our projects we painted in house at our studio in White Owl Market. I hope that will help you, and remember… Don’t be afraid of color!
White Owl Market
We hope these projects above helped you decide what color fits your needs.
Mix & Match colored glassware and dinnerware patterns to add a creative, whimsical flair to any event whether it be a wedding, dinner party or just for everyday.
We always say “Don’t be afraid of color” and we mean it! Home decor is meant to highlight our creative side.
Not only is it creative, it’s fun too! Searching for pieces has become a bit of an obsession for us. There are no rules, just pick pieces you like and that are useful and don’t try to match. We used to be picky about having to find matching sets, no worries here, just go for it!
Our selection in constantly changing so stop by often.
White Owl Market 