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DO'S Organics: Florals, leaves, vines, birds, and other natural motifs. They are appropriate for pillows, draperies, or rugs. Use a large-scale pattern for dramatic effect on large areas such as window treatments, walls, or large upholstered seating. Small organics give a softer and less imposing effect. Geometrics: Stripes, plaids, checks, lattice, circles, and other predictable patterns. Remember that stripes have direction and are best used on draperies and upholstered seating. Plaids, ...   Read more

3 Easy Guidelines to Minimize Confusion & Maximize Success: Mixing a variety of fabrics in a room can make it exciting and fresh, or confusing and restless. The secret to success is the expert balancing of colors and patterns. 1.  Start with the most complex pattern you want to use. It may be fabric for pillows or draperies, or the design of the rug on the floor. The style may be free-flowing, such as vines and flowers, or rigid and precise, such as a geometric. It should c...   Read more

Fabrics are Powerful Statements of Style Here are some guidelines on updating that will help you select the perfect fabric accents for your home. Traditional: Update a traditional look by choosing a formal pattern in a non-traditional color or texture. Plush, nubby or beaded damasks in purple, lime green or sunny yellow create striking contrasts to the classic lines of a formal room. Casual: Replace soft pastel patterns with bold geometrics. Stripes, plaids, and coordinating solid f...   Read more

Have you ever wanted to perk up a tired room without having to start all over? The answer might be as simple as adding some new touches of an interior design staple: pattern! Recently I was asked to update a well-worn powder room with taupe walls and neutral fixtures. My client felt that all the elements in the room were blending into each other and there was no focal point. I agreed - the room was quite boring! Recognizing that the powder room, though small and private, was an important indi...   Read more

Create a necessary focal point In a room that is ordinary or featureless in appearance, use color to create a new imposing focal point to catch the eye. Paint a strong accent color on the wall behind a sofa, bed, fireplace, or built-in shelves. The contrasting wall will give new significance to the furnishing or architectural feature in front of it by outlining its shape and form. Add a few well-placed accessories and decorative pillows in the same accent color, and you will have the beginning ...   Read more

Color Schemes A planned “color scheme” is a great way to introduce and control color for a desired effect. Color schemes usually combine two or three hues, plus a coordinating neutral, to create the mood and personality of a room. The result can feel warm and inviting, or cool and restful. It may be dramatic and formal, or fun and relaxing. A successful color scheme is the most exciting and powerful element we use to communicate the unique look, feel, and use of a room. One popula...   Read more