Gone are the days of dark dreary interiors. When I first got into the design business fifteen years ago, everything was dark, oversized and glazed. The look was considered to be Mediterranean or European. That translated into a lot of dark reds, deep browns, heavy golds and fabrics with just as little buoyancy. I never thought I would dislike green until I painted so many sage walls that I wanted to puke. Lucky for us, that trend is gone. Todays interiors are bright, fresh and full of personality thanks to pops of crisp color. If you are slowly making your way out of the nineties and not sure where to start, here are some terrific examples of ways to brighten up your space with just a few easy steps.
1) Accent chairs
Chairs around the house, or dining room are a great way to add that punch of fruit flavors to your space.
This photo above is from Better Homes and Gardens. A very traditional space with oak table, original built-ins, and simple chandelier but painting it a crisp white adds the perfect backdrop for a sunkist orange fabric on the dining chairs. Instantly this space is transformed.
2) Fabric accents
Another great example from Better Homes and Gardens of an updated traditional space. Here the room houses a very traditional bedroom set, and soft robins egg blue walls.
But add an accent of complimentary orange and peach and the room perks up immediately. A very inexpensive and quick fix that can be done to any room.
3) Bold Furniture Moves
This is by far the hardest decision to make for most clients…and often those are the risks with the biggest rewards!
When it comes to large furniture pieces take a risk and upholster them in something bold. Like this sofa above from House and Home, yellow completely makes the space, and dare I say makes you smile? Yellow is rarely a color used. It is typically gold or worse beige! Take that risk and you will be surprised at how happy it makes you! Perhaps your favorite color is Mint Green? Use it and uphoslter accordingly!
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About Amanda Gates
Great tips, Amanda.! My red sofa is at the upholsterers now, he’s going to be peacock blue !