Comments on: Design Trends of 2011

By: Kathleen

Kathleen — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 22:15:40 +0000

what really resonates with me is the discussion about the upswing in the diy/up-cycled trend. it’s something that i really hope never leaves–both from an environmental standpoint and because it’s really sparked some ultra-creative thinking in the design world. that, and, i love old things with stories rather than new, pre-fab items.

however, one thing i hope leaves us and leaves us quickly is the “crafty” diy trend. just because you can cover something in scrapbook paper, ladies, doesn’t mean you should do it! :)

By: Kim

Kim — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 11:59:11 +0000

Fun post! I loved reading everyone’s thoughts on the different topics :) I really liked Janell’s insight into rushing the process of finishing a room. It does take time to pull it all together. Most of us cannot afford to hire someone to do it for us, and we’re not professional designers, so it takes us longer to figure out what works and what doesn’t. And I think that depends not on current trends, but on what we like personally. Or even what we would be content living with :) I have really liked some rooms, or “looks” seen on different blogs, but know that I would not necessarily want them in my home. What I appreciate is the opportunity to see what others are doing, gain inspiration, and be motivated to continue working on my own home. And let’s face it, we’re NEVER DONE. lol

By: Lisa @ A Room with A View

Lisa @ A Room with A View — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 20:39:07 +0000

I love this conversation..we should do more! I agree with so much of what has been said – I did not jump on the chevron or sunburst mirror bandwagon but do appreciate ikat because that has global appeal which is part of my personal style and something I have grown up with. Color pops, too, are my thing and the idea of reclaimed wood, upcycled and recyled pieces is something every person should embrace as it is environmentally friendly and cost-effective. I do also agree with Janell about a room design coming together over time – adds layers of character and is more meaningful, apart from the expense aspect. Very thought-provoking post.

By: Katharine

Katharine — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 06:49:16 +0000

I’m so late on most trends it’s silly, but I decorate with what I love. Just in the past year I’ve been turning my room into a shabby chic style but I’m using stuff I already have loved for ages and adding to it. My curtains are ..gasp! mauve but I love them and it works cause the rest is more subdued soft pinks, blues and white.

I never thought that grey and yellow would go together and probably wouldn’t design with it, but I like seeing what others do and what works visually.

I agree with Janell, that decorating over time is the best way to design. Who can afford to redo it every year? or have the energy to repaint things all the time. I know I don’t have either, so it has to be a slow process.

Right now my living room has dark orange, beige, dark furniture and antique gold accents. I’d like to lighten it up w/ adding more white or cream, and patterns with orange and blue. Right now my couch cover and curtains are beige…boring! It wasn’t meant to be boring but a jumping off point. Now I want more a colorful look. I think I’ll start doing a few changes this Spring after I save money when the holidays are over.