Bring Spring: Lighten Up

Using white in your decor helps you believe that warmth is just around the corner. "Try adding crisp white linens to your bed, white throw pillows to the couch, and new fluffy white towels to the bathroom for a clean look and feel," says interior designer Marlaina Teich, owner of Marlaina Teich Interior Designs on Long Island, New York. "Add white hydrangeas with green leaves in a glass Mason jar on the bedside table. That will brighten up any morning."

Bring Spring: Venture Out

Break out the outdoor fire pit to advance the spring season, says interior designer Barbara Ince of the Susan Fredman Design Group. Even if it's still chilly out, hanging out on your patio or deck reminds you of warm-weather good times past and gets you thinking about the future. "Have plenty of warm throws to share with friends so you can cuddle up," Ince says. Even in the Phoenix area, evenings are still cool enough to light up that fire pit! Enjoy it now!

Design Trends: From Fab Fifties to Metal Madness

If you’re thinking about redecorating, you might want to include a few of today’s newest design trends.  But remember, since most design trends run on an 8 – 10 year cycle, what goes around eventually comes around again.  

While it’s important that your redecorating project reflect your taste and lifestyle, it’s fun to think about incorporating a new trend or two in your overall design.  Here are just a few of today’s hottest design trends.  Surely, there’s at least one of these super ideas that would be just perfect for you.

RETRO RAGES.  That’s right!  We’re back in the 50’s-60’s and 70’s AGAIN!  Retro touches might range from diner-style stools, chrome and glass tables; brightly colored cocktail glasses, beaded lamps – why even those ever popular lava lamps have made a big come back!

GARDEN GOODIES.  There’s nothing more peaceful than a beautiful garden setting.  Mother Nature’s versatile color palette is now being seen in abundance – indoors.  Today’s homeowners want their homes to be peaceful settings.  As a result, our love affair with our gardens has never been stronger!  From statuaries, to birdbaths to multifaceted gazing balls, ornamental accessories abound.

HAND PAINTED FURNITURE.  If you crave some individuality in your decorating, then why not think about adding a unique piece of hand painted furniture to your room.  From end tables to sideboards, wine racks to coffee tables, your own personality can truly come to the forefront when you add a uniquely painted piece of furniture.  And don’t be afraid to mix this newly acquired treasure with your existing wood pieces.

METAL MADNESS. We’re just mad about metals!  Wrought iron, burnished copper, pewter tones can be found everywhere – especially in dramatic bed designs.   Metal Verdi geris finishes continue in their popularity, as do distressed finishes.  Combining wood and glass with metal is also a hot look.

CLOCKS COUNT.  Clocks of every shape, design and style are abundant!  You’re sure to find just the perfect clock accent for any room in your home.  Perhaps your foyer would be the perfect setting for a traditionally designed grandfather clock.  Or maybe your fireplace mantle is yearning for the graceful design of a mantle clock.  And don’t forget that bare wall.  Wall clocks have never been more diverse in their design – or more appealing.

COLOR CALLLIOPE.  Think about black and white combos, rich peach shades, sea foam greens or robin’s egg blue paired with warm brown.  And don’t forget to include a golden hue or two if your walls are in need of a color face-lift.