The character is divine and the movie sets are magnificent.  The apartment Mame lives in takes on a completely new and different look every few years based on her iridescent theatrical personality.  During the movie, viewers get to see six separate and completely different designs, and to quote Jonathan Adler, “Watching Auntie Mame is a right of passage for every aspiring decorator”.  For a full tour of the six different makeovers during the movie in Mame’s apartment, visit Julia’s post on 3 Beekman Place.

So I have a neighbor named Tatiana and we met eight years ago at my annual garage sale. Tatiana is the closest person to Auntie Mame I know. Up my driveway eight years ago she walked with her husband Miguel and Tatiana and I became instant friends.  When I first met her, her name was Jennie, but then she decided she wanted her name to be Tatiana because she preferred Tatiana so she legally changed her name to Tatiana.  At the age of 45.  I love that.

Tatiana is my Auntie Mame, she eats and drinks and decorates as she pleases all with a zest for life that’s rare these days.  She lives around the corner from me and we meet for coffee from time to time to catch up. She always wants to come to my house because she finds it so soothing, and I always want to go to her house because I find it so inspiring, so we take turns.  But on our last coffee visit I won and got the pleasure of visiting with her in her home.  

You can take in any room in my house in one glance, but hers? Oh my. It’s filled with her collection of precious things from the last twenty years scattered and displayed as she pleases. Walls painted in shades of saffron, muted turquoise, amethyst, and mustard yellow. Chinoiserie collections include everything from exotic screens to Chinese consoles, and she also displays eastern European objects from Turkish brass urns to Persian rugs, the list goes on.  She’s inherited some furniture from her grandmother, but acquired most of her collection through clever second hand shopping at thrift stores or flea markets.

Tatiana is a self taught artist too, and she showed me some of her recent pastel sketches, just beautiful.

Tatiana always makes me think about how important it is to decorate your home with what you love.  Even if it’s irreverent or unconventional, eccentric and colorful, if you love it, then do it, display it.  Life’s too short not to.

I’ve collected even more images of what I consider “Auntie Mame Style”.  These are interiors that are filled with art, pattern, and color to reflect the tastes and personalities of the residents.  

Miles Redd

Jonathan Adler in Lonny

via

via The Lennoxx

via Trendey

via Pinterest

via Harper’s Baazar

One of my favorite things to witness is when people decorate without care or concern for what others think and they mix pattern and color as they see fit. They decorate with wild abandon and to the beat of their own drum.  I applaud anyone who displays what he or she loves fearlessly, with no regard for what other’s think, by definition channeling their inner Auntie Mame. 

And shouldn’t we all?  Maybe not in the form of bright colors in every single space or layer upon layer of competing pattern or fishbowls hanging as fixtures in our entry. 

Instead, be inspired to fill your home with collections that are meaningful and important to you, irreverent or eccentric as they are.  Life’s too short not to. 

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When you’re about to paint your walls something other than white or a pale neutral, I’m a firm believer in starting with something that will actually live in the space as a source of inspiration.  It can be a decorative object, a textile, something organic, a print or piece of art – anything you love that inspires you. Once you find that thing or that fabric, the easiest way to choose a paint color for the walls is to use that source of inspiration as your starting point. 

In my own master bedroom, I wanted a soothing gray with a hint of blue on the walls, so when I repainted it last year, I pulled my color from this Ikat toss pillow.

Fabric or artwork is always a great place to start, but it really can be anything that you use as your jumping off point.  How about the pattern on this loose tea canister?  Your wall color can be inspired by an object just like this. Imagine medium gray walls with vibrant coral or tangerine and spa blue accents, gorgeous!

To see a ton of inspiring color palettes, be sure to visit one of my favorite sources Design Seeds – a blog all about pulling color inspiration from both organic and tangible objects.  Also, be sure to check out the My Image Inspiration Tool – upload an image and palette will be generated for you!

Here’s another fabric example. I love this Panama Wave fabric from the Waverly Spring 2012 line (soon to be released).  This vibrant print would be wonderful in a craft room, living room, home office, or teen room.  If you used this fabric as inspiration, say for the window panels or toss pillows or to line the back of cabinets, it’s easy to go right to a paint swatch and pull a soft lemongrass or green color – a paler version of the wave – out of the fabric swatch to use on the walls.

Or take this medallion print pillow cover with a fabulous motif in various shades of blue. Use it as your jumping off point to search for a deep indigo for dramatic bedroom walls.  

Not only can you pull your wall color out of your inspiration swatch, you can decorate an entire room around a great patterned textile. I found this inexpensive toss pillow at Target, I loved it’s inky blue, cream, and spa blue palette.  A great pattern like this can easily become the theme for the whole space!  Add a gray upholstered headboard, crisp hotel bed linens, white nightstand and trim, a complementary rug and a few more accessories, and you’d have an elegant and enveloping bedroom with this deep indigo blue color on the walls. 

Leyland Armless Chair in French Ticking Blue; Sassy Ceramic Table Lamp; Arley Mirror; Medallion Pillow by Target; Old World Blue Paint by Glidden; Carleen Indigo Rug; Bowfront Bedside Chest by Malibu Loft; Greek Key Duvet, Williams-Sonoma.

Two rules of thumb I follow when choosing paint color for walls.

1) Keep in mind you always want to test a 2 to 3 foot sample on the wall before buying a gallon of paint from just looking at a swatch. A few extra dollars spent on samples will allow you the opportunity to see the color on your walls in the changing light to decide if it’s too dark, too light, too intense, too blah, etc.

2) Lean towards a “muddier” less saturated version of the color for the walls. I’ve found that colors with a hint of gray or umber as an undertone look much better on the walls than their more saturated cousins which can often be too vibrant and jarring.

Now for some weekend fun!  The team behind My Colortopia put together this  interactive quiz for all of you.  Want to know the best color scheme that fits your personality and lifestyle?   Test out this My Life My Colors quiz!

(Visit the site to participate)

Mine were pretty close, except for a peachy color thrown in as a suggestion.  What do you think of your results?  Were they accurate?  Have fun discovering the recommended palette for you! 

Wishing you all a fantastic weekend!

xo,

**I have partnered with Glidden/Akzo Nobel Paints to participate in the My Colortopia program but the thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. 

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Reclaimed and Natural Wood.  Raw and repurposed wood has surged to the forefront of design and it’s good to see that wood is back in a big way with its amazing organic qualities. I can’t wait to see more of it in 2012 and I hope to work with more salvaged wood myself in the new year. 

1/2

Industrial Resurgence.  Industrial is really big in design and in retail, however the industrial style can be hit and miss for me ~ I think it’s because galvanized metal can be so cold to the eye and to the touch. But recently I’m crushing on industrial light fixtures and loving many of the accent pieces we’re seeing everywhere, they add a masculine touch and are a great way to add something unexpected to a space. 

 1/2/3/4

Scandinavian Influences   We are obsessed with the minimalism of Scandinavian design and also spaces that include paler wood and whiter walls. Layers of cozy textures make this style so appealing and prevent it from becoming too austere.  

1/2/3/4

Gold Accents.  When it comes to metallic sheens, gold is de rigueur in design these days. Funny how things always ‘come back in style’ when in truth, gold is eternally stylish. Paired with classics like black and white, linen and leather, elegant touches of gold are always timeless.

1/2

Wallpaper: Bold & Subtle   Bright color and bold pattern and instant pizazz to any space and today’s modern wallpapers are just the ticket. For the more timid, there’s always the more subtle grasscloth and natural fiber wallcoverings to add instant texture.

1/2/3

In truth, I think it unfair to label any of these design elements as trends.  They’re all fabulously implemented design choices recently highlighted and pushed to the forefront on the pages of online and shelter magazines. 

What say you?  Are you happy to see these styles continue?  Any DIY or design trends you hope will disappear in 2012?

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Let’s start with the three runners up, who will all receive a $50 Gift Card:

Runner Up #1: Pear Green and Sparkly

Pear ornaments and mercury glass pair beautifully on this simple outdoor tablescape set by Jordan at The Happy Homebodies for her ladies church group for Christmas. We loved the warm browns next to the cool shimmering mercury glass. The simple yet stunning branch centerpiece combines spray painted glittery branches with more natural manzanitas.

Runner Up #2: Z Gallerie Inspired Peacock tablescape

Several DIY projects combined to create this magical New Year’s Eve table over at Commonplace Beauty.  $4 accent plates were the inspiration, and we’re head over heels in love with the inexpensive glam chargers created with a “pound of bling”.  Don’t miss the gold garland dollar store vases, they’re so pretty!  Bravo Heather!

Runner Up #3:  Violet Winter Wonderland

Jess over at Events That Sparkle pulled together this stylish and budget savvy winter wonderland tablescape in unconventional violet that wowed us all, and all her DIY touches make this table the place to be for her family that celebrates both Christmas and Hanukkah.  Just fabulous Jess!

Drumroll please…

The Grand Prize Winner of a $100 Gift Card to HomeGoods…

Natural Christmas: Sweet Something Designs!  Congratulations!!!

We loved the cozy outdoor setting, and the use of a plaid ‘Camp Blanket’ as the inspiration for the color palette. The use of everyday white plates, contrasting black napkins, red flatware coupled with textural burlap, twigs and berries make this Christmas tablescape universally appealing to all.  The glass hurricanes tiered on cedar platforms are the perfect centerpiece for this inexpensive welcoming outdoor scene.  Simple, stylish, creative, and affordable!  Hop on over to see the full outdoor tablescape ~ congratulations Michelle!

And congratulations to the top four winners, please contact me ASAP so I can get your address to send your gift cards! 

* * *

Honorable Mentions that made judging this contest nearly impossible:

Jen at The Decor Scene created a gorgeous centerpiece for her holiday table that works for any occasion from Thanksgiving to New Year’s plus she offers up some helpful tips for how to layer a table. 

Don’t miss this whimsical bird tablescape over at The Rooster and The Hen so festive and fun, and how cool is the birch centerpiece! 

Traditional Thanksgiving tablescape by Stone Gable filled with all the colors and warmth of autumn and the bounty of Thanksgiving.  Such gorgeous leaf motif napkins and lovely pear accent bowls!  

Here’s another simple yet inspiring setting, this elegant Thanksgiving table at Baylor Says decorated in fresh whites with a pretty orange runner and some simple gourds as accents.

A Burberry scarf makes a great runner, together with green bottle candleholders and gold chargers over at Our Fifth House, love it!

Lovely brown and white transferware complete this warm and wonderful Thanksgiving table by Take Six.

We loved this dramatic gold and black tablescape by Living in the 513, those chevron napkins are perfection!

And here are two email submissions which stood out, first this beautiful apple green and brown tablescape by Bev S., how clever are the upside down martini glasses as candleholders?

Laura T. submitted this pretty peacock inspired table saturated with layers of beautiful blues and hints of gold with a collection from both HomeGoods and the Dollar Store, lovely!

If you want even more inspiration, pay a visit to even more links at the Tablescape Contest, there are so many ideas there for your next holiday table.  Thank you to all who participated, to the two other judges Courtney and Rhoda, and to HomeGoods for sponsoring this fun event.

Let’s hear it for all the contestants, all fantastic stylists right? 

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A month ago, I was asked to curate a sales event (I know, pinch me) which meant I got to go virtual shopping and hand select 60+ items that reflect my personal style. It was so fun! I gathered up all sorts of stylish finds for you, from gorgeous home accessories under $50 to bigger ticket items like rugs and furnishings. The big sales event is next week ~ here’s a little sneak peek of what you’ll find in my curated sale.  

If you’re not signed up yet to get the emails announcing all the sales, here is a personal invitation from me* so you won’t be placed on a wait list.  It costs you nothing, you sign up with your email, and then you’ll have access to various designer decor that goes on sale daily.  *Note, I do receive a small referral fee if you sign up, just like anyone else (including you!) who refers new members.

You definitely don’t want to miss my curated sale next week filled with so many gorgeous things all personally selected by me, you’ll love it!  Look for the sales event next Tuesday, December 13th over at Joss & Main. 

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Today Courtney from Courtney Out Loud is back with his monthly contribution and the topic of the day is decorating with wood antiques, specifically those vintage pieces handed down from previous generations. Please welcome back Courtney and his artful analysis on how to decorate with antique wood furniture:

“Mixing antique and modern furniture styles helps create an individualized and multilayered room that reflects the owner’s unique taste and personality. However, many people adhere to one specific style when decorating their homes. This approach is great if you are truly passionate about a particular era or genre of design, however, for the majority of homeowners they tend to be at a loss when they happen to inherit a family heirloom. How do you incorporate it into your home’s personality and style?  Case in point, Kate received this email from a reader seeking help:  

"My mom has a vintage buffet that I convinced her to hang onto. I want to use it in my home, but how do you incorporate vintage pieces with your regular decor, without making it feel like grandma’s house?"

Great question! Exactly how do you incorporate vintage and antique furniture into your home without having it feel too dated ?  Don’t fret because it’s as easy as following one of these six simple rules.

1) Determine Your Design Focus  A room filled with nothing but antiques can quickly make your home feel dated and more like a museum.  Unless you are purposefully going for a "boho" look, then you need to decide the primary style of your space – modern, traditional, contemporary – whatever it may be. Making the decision on what style will dominate the room will allow you to make conscious choices on what types of antiques will work with your aesthetic.  You can then begin to layer in vintage and antique pieces that suit your particular design focus and also add character.

Scot Mecham Wood 

Judith Balis via HGTV

The two rooms above are perfect examples of how to choose a design focus yet still incorporate antiques and vintage pieces seamless into a room without overpowering the space.  The antiques are combined with more modern pieces to achieve a balanced “collected over time” look. 

      

2) Put Antiques To Work  Most of us have visited a house where there was a room designated "Do Not Enter" or worse, the furniture was slipcovered in plastic.  Antiques were originally made with a purpose, so put them to work.  Have a beautiful antique dining table set?  Break it up.  Pair the table with modern, industrial, or upholstered chairs then use the matching chairs in another part of your house, say as part of a reading room vignette.  By using these family heirlooms as functional pieces throughout your home, you breathe new life into them and into the rooms where they reside.   

SF Girl by Bay 

Lonny

           

3) There is Harmony in Discord.  Filling a room with antiques or vintage pieces simply because they are so is a road map straight to "Granny’s House". The impact of the pieces will be lost, so I suggest that you look for "harmonic discordance".  It’s a term borrowed from music, but by definition it’s when a composer purposefully uses off notes to emphasize a particular section of music. Using your inherited antique pieces to create visual dissonance is a fantastic way to break up the monotony that may arise from using one style in a room but also serves to highlight the fantastic qualities of the antique piece itself.    

Skip Sroka Design

Judith MIller Design  

 House Beautiful

These images exemplify the visual tension that can be created by pairing dissimilar pieces. Left alone, the pieces are fine but when combined with modern accessories, they make for real visual interest within the rooms.

     

4) Create a Space For It  This is a trick that merchandise stylists have used for years and has been appropriated by interior designers to work difficult furniture pieces into a room. Quite simply, create a "backdrop" for the antique or vintage piece you are trying to fit into the room. Paint large squares of color on a blank wall and use them to frame the piece, or anchor a corner of a room with a large period inspired painting or mirror and float the piece of furniture in front.  Consider as part of your plan an unexpected place for your antique.   Doing so allows the vintage piece to become a purposeful focal point and less of an afterthought.  

Kerrie Kelley

AMI Designs

Robinson Interiors

   

5) Tell A Story.  Sometimes a connection between your antique pieces and the rest of your decor is not obvious. That is when you use accessories (pictures, lamps, mirrors and art) to create a subtle relationship with the rest of the room.  Setting a pair of modern crystal lamps on top of a burled wood credenza or using a vintage console to house your family photo collection are great ways to create unifying themes to the rest of the room.

Grant K. Gibson

In addition to accessories, look to the innate aspects of the antique or vintage piece such as wood tone, leg shape, or finishes to echo other design elements in the room.

Darryl Carter

Pull together more modern accessories to surround your antique piece and you’ll achieve a personalized and stylish space that reflects your taste. 

 Bijou and Boheme

 

6) Let It Go   So you’ve made serious efforts but you simply don’t have the space for Great Aunt Sally’s piano or your Mother’s hope chest. Trying to shoe horn the piece in your home is a sure way to end up disliking it down the road. If a piece doesn’t fit, consider giving it away to a sibling or family member, donating it to a museum, or parting with it by selling to an antique shop. 

When I am dealing with clients who are having a hard time parting with a piece, I ask what is it about the piece that they love. Most times it is the memories associated with the piece, not the actual item itself. Remember, those memories are something you will own forever whether the piece is in your house or not. Whenever possible, I like to take an artistic picture of the piece as a keepsake for the client and have them create a scrapbook page that includes other relevant artifacts so they can retain some tangible aspect of the piece.

_ _ _ 

You are not your Grandmother, so stop worrying about decorating like her! Know that by choosing to mix antiques into your decor, you are creating a definite sense of place, history, and warmth in your home. Decorating with antiques and vintage pieces of one of the easiest ways to imbue your home with a sense of self and character. By remembering to edit your vintage pieces and juxtapose your antiques to the modern elements within your home, you will create a look that few will dare to compare to your Grandmother! 

Thanks so much Courtney for your valuable insight! You can visit more with Courtney over at his blog Courtney Out Loud.

What about you?  Have you inherited a piece from a family member that you have struggled to decorate around?  How have you incorporated vintage wood pieces into your own home? 

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So glad to have you back this month Michelle, take it away!

“Believe it or not, 2011 is coming to a close. Before we get too wrapped up in all things holiday, I thought it would be fun to chat about design trends in 2011- the good, the bad, and the ugly. And I’ve got a little surprise, as I’ve lined up six of our favorite shelter bloggers to discuss the highlights of design in 2011.

Everybody give up a big welcome to Sherry from Young House Love, Mrs. Limestone from A Brooklyn Limestone, Cristin from Simplified Bee, Janell from Isabella and Max Rooms, Jennifer from Rambling Renovators, and our very own Kate from Centsational Girl.

I know, right? This is a superstar team of DIY and design bloggers! So without further introduction, let’s get started and dive into the world of design in 2011!

What was your favorite interior design trend in 2011?

Sherry: Hmm, it’s a tie between Ikat and chevron I think. I love everything from tone-on-tone chevron curtains to brightly painted furniture with those playful zig-zig patterns worked in there. And anything Ikat = love for me. I like to say that I’m happy to hang out behind the trends. Ha ha. I’m rarely ahead of that sort of stuff and I usually love it far longer than most trend forecasters do. But it works out because if I work something "trendy" into my house I’m not over it a season or two later – I tend to enjoy things for a nice long time. Like my Ikat curtains in the dining room. Here’s hoping I still love those babies in ten years. So far, so good.

Mrs. Limestone: I tend to think the best trends last way longer than 12 months, so while this isn’t particular to 2011, my favorite just might be using maps in decor.  Everything from turning a globe into a light to map patterns showing up in all kinds of small accessories to repurposing old pull down school maps as art – the world is hot!

Better Homes & Gardens

Cristin: Wallpaper and wall coverings have been trending. I found that more and more of my clients were willing to take the plunge to commit to wallpaper in 2011. All different types of wall coverings are popular, but I am finding that coverings made of natural fibers such as sea grass, hemp, or arrowroot are leading the pack.

Natalie Clay Design

Janell: Even though the term is becoming overused, I love the trend of embracing eclectic design. I think it helps dispel the idea there is a right and wrong way to decorate and gives people the freedom to explore and embrace their own unique mix of favorite items, both new and old.

Jennifer: The use of paneling/molding/trim. It’s a great way to add architectural detail and is a classic look that will never go out of style.

Kate: My most favorite trend is the growing use of reclaimed wood, especially when the designer makes efforts to truly showcase the beauty of the wood itself.  Whether polished, whitewashed, stained, or rustic, exposed wood is back and it’s looking fabulous!

House and Home

 

In your opinion, what was the worst interior design trend in 2011?

Sherry: See, here’s where I’m lame. I don’t really hate much. I like to think that there are about a million "right" answers in design (as opposed to just one) so I’ve seen tons of things that might be considered to be trends that are over and have still loved them as much as the day they were "in." Cop out answer, I know. But really, I can’t think of anything.

Mrs. Limestone: This is just a personal preference, but I really don’t like the use of rough materials for furniture, rugs, pillows or anything that comes in contact with skin.  Wicker furniture and sisal rugs come to mind.  They don’t look bad – they just don’t invite me to want to stay in a space.  And really, isn’t that goal of any room?

Cristin: With some exceptions, industrial-inspired décor was a miss for me.

Janell: I saw a lot of mirrored pieces of furniture, as well as mirrored accessories and accents. To my eye, unless these items are very well made they can begin to look cheap and bring down the overall look of a room.

via

Jennifer: Building furniture out of wooden pallets. It only works in certain décor and really seems like a lot of effort for a piece that looks unfinished and temporary.

Kate: It’s a personal preference but I confess, I’m starting to feel just a bit of chevron overdose.  Maybe it’s just me.  Personally, I prefer a more classic subdued and traditional herringbone pattern – that never gets old.  Neither does Missoni’s iconic zig zag pattern, especially in muddy tone on tone hues.

   

What house-related design trends from this year will stick around in 2012 (whether you like it or not!)?

Sherry: Gray and yellow seems to be a pairing that’s still going strong, so I think it might stay around for a while. I think pops of color in general might be here to stay for a nice long time. The whole monochromatic/neutral/tonal thing seemed to be "in" a few years back, but now it seems like even high end designers are playing around with everything from plum and pink to cobalt and orange a lot more. I love it!

Southern Living

Mrs. Limestone: Chevron is everywhere right now and I couldn’t be more pleased.  I’ve seen a few people say it’s a new fad but trust me – this pattern is anything but new.  Chevron is a trend that is never going to go away – you’ll find it in 1970s clothing, 18th century Paris apartments’ herringbone floors and the inlaid marble at the Taj Mahal.  If it’s made it this long, I think it’s safe to say it is here to stay.

Cristin: Brass accents, hide rugs and chevron patterns will be back in 2012.

Janell: I am a fan of the Belgian style and I do think it will continue to grow in popularity. The worn wood pieces popular in this trend, that often are limed, evoke a lived in feeling that can create very welcoming spaces. However, when taken to the extreme, as seen in some catalog layouts, it is a trend that can become trite looking rather than inviting, and can begin to seem out of place.

Jennifer: Painted furniture. I think people want to incorporate more colour into their homes and this is an easy and bold way to do it. Plus, the trend of recycling/upcycling will continue and painting vintage pieces really breathes new life into things that otherwise go into a landfill.

Kate: Gold is timeless and we’re seeing it everywhere again. I adore the use of antique gold finishes and patinas but I just wonder if we’ll also see the resurgence of shiny brass that we saw so much of (too much of) in the late 80s and early 90s.

 Lonny

 

Did you find that any design trends from the past made a comeback in 2011?

Sherry: Grellow!  Aka: greeny-yellow or chartreuse. It’s such a fun throwback to the 70′s, yet it still feels totally modern and clean in the right pairings (CB2 has been using it for a while along with clean white furnishings and dark wood for texture). This is definitely an inspiration for green-loving folks like us. It’s such a great color because it’s modern and crisp without being cold (thanks to the warm golden yellow undertones).

Mrs. Limestone: One of the biggest design trends of this century is absolutely bringing back anything vintage – even mundane, functional items like cameras and telephones are hot décor items now.  I don’t know if I can call it a comeback or a breakthrough but I am all over it. One thing I wish would definitely go away is the color mauve.  I could totally do without that coming back.

Cristin: The chevron pattern has made a huge comeback this year. From pillows to rugs, that bold zig zag can be found in various sizes and endless color schemes.

My Old Country House

Janell: Wallpaper continues to make a comeback and I adore seeing this trend! Not only new styles, but many well-loved styles from the past are being reintroduced with success.

Jennifer: The use of gold-toned metals in interiors made a huge comeback. Like the gilded days of the 1980’s, gold adds warmth and luxury, but today it’s more subdued in hues of brass or with an antiqued patina.

Kate:  Hello, mid-century modern!  It’s been back for a few years but it’s still going strong and we can all thank the hit series ‘Mad Men’.  One thing I do love about mid century modern is the deliberate use of clean lines – it gives permission to use more eclectic accessories.

 

What design trend from this year do you think will pop up again in twenty years?

Sherry: Hmm, maybe the whole handmade/DIY trend? Right now making things yourself to save money and be creative is really popular thanks to the economy and the growing interest in local/eco/working-with-what-you-have initiatives. I hope that’s something that doesn’t go out ever again – so it’ll hopefully still be cool in 2031. Certain eras felt more like people bragged about how much things cost instead of bragging about how much they saved by making stuff themselves – so here’s hoping that handmade/DIY enthusiasm is here to stay! Or at least that it pops up more often than not.

Mrs. Limestone: Everything repeats itself eventually it seems.  Once you get far enough away from a generation to appreciate it, it all comes back.  (PS: I’m still resisting the 80s – let’s make a stand against neon!)

Cristin: I wouldn’t be surprised to see wallpaper cycle back in 20 years.

Janell: The sunburst mirror. It is one of those items that has becomes so well loved that it is verging on overuse, if it isn’t already there. The fastest thing that happens when something is overused is that it becomes tired and people start to shy away from using it. I suspect this is a trend that will be tucked away in the closet in the near future only to reemerge with great popularity in another twenty years, if not sooner. (We just need a break for a moment so that all the great options can become fresh again!)

Jennifer: Chevron! It’s a great graphic pattern and, like animal prints or stripes, will no doubt come back in style again.

Kate: I think it’s bold color high gloss furniture.  Right now we’re seeing old pieces reinvented in brightly painted colors with glossy sheens and I love it.  We may shy away from that in a few years but I predict it will come back, as we all crave color and a fresh coat of paint on a tired piece is the easiest way to update.    

Honey & Fitz

 

In your opinion, what was the most overused design trend of 2011?

Sherry: I can’t really think of a single thing that I think was overused to the point of wanting to see less of it. Because even if things pop up repeatedly (chalk board paint, maps, birds, jute), I always seem to appreciate them in all different applications. So I’m glad they keep coming back in different surroundings/colors/uses because each time they’re applied in a new way. I think I’m one of those "the more, the merrier" type of people.

via Piccsy

Mrs. Limestone: I really do think that nearly anything can be done well, but if I had to pick one thing – it would be the Moroccan pouf.  They seem to crop up in every décor magazine in the most random ways.  I’ve had enough of the pouf to last a lifetime.

Cristin: Ikat and zebra patterns were a bit overused in 2011. I am predicting we will see them fade away a bit next year.

Janell: This is not specifically a "trend", but the idea that we must rush through the process of putting together a room to cross the finish line in a record pace is becoming tiring for many, myself included. Wanting a room complete yesterday often doesn’t allow for a thoughtful design process to take place, one in which there is the freedom to slowly find and acquire meaningful items that have a true purpose and can be treasured and enjoyed over a long period of time. I see interior design trends beginning to mirror the pace of fashion design trends, and this can’t be a good thing. Interiors are far too expensive and time consuming to put together to have our efforts become dated before we can even being to enjoy the outcome.

Jennifer: Definitely starburst mirrors. I love the look of vintage starburst mirrors but all the DIY versions out there have turned this stylish accessory into something kitschy and not so glamorous.

Wisteria

Kate: I brought this up a few months ago in a ‘timeless or trendy’ article, but my best answer is sunburst (or starburst) mirrors. They’ve been around for centuries, but sunburst mirrors have definitely have their periods of popularity, then they fade from view. I’m loving them now in my own home, even making a DIY version and recently buying a retail version for our master bedroom.  They’re just such a pretty focal point, and it doesn’t matter to me if they’re trendy. I think that’s what’s most important, finding what you like and then decorating with your personal preferences, regardless of what other’s deem ‘timeless’ or ‘trendy’.

Wow, isn’t it incredible how much beautiful design passes through our lives in just one year?! It’s clear that 2011 was certainly a year for interior design hits (and a few misses!). Thank you to our blogger panel for taking the time to chat about this year in design. I think I will speak for all of us when I saw that we’re looking forward to what the world of design holds for 2012!”

Thank you so much Michelle for rounding up all these opinions from these amazing bloggers!  Be sure to pay a visit to Michelle over at her blog Ten June.

And a huge thank you to Sherry, Mrs. Limestone, Cristin, Janell, and Jennifer for participating, what fun this was!  Such great conversation right?  Isn’t it so interesting how we view the design world so differently?  I could talk for days and days about design trends, how far we’ve come and where we’re going.

What do you think?  What were your most favorite and least favorite design trends of 2011?  What are your predictions for 2012?  C’mon spill it, we all want to know!

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How best to begin this project?  I had to start at the back. Grasscloth wallpaper would have been major cool, but expensive and time consuming.  Been there, done that.  Wrapping paper or scrapbook paper might have been fun I couldn’t find the right one. Stencils seemed too busy.  One thing I knew, I was going to pack it with a book + collectible combo and I worried with all the stuff, the background would compete.

I finally decided to paint the back of these bookcases a rich teal color, because 1. it’s a color I never get tired of, 2. it showcases all the white accessories, 3. it coordinates with the colors in the window panels in the room and 4. it was just so dang easy. 

I started this adventure Saturday morning, coffee cup in my left hand, paintbrush in the right. Painting the backs was the easy part.  (Tip: use a good angled brush!) The hard part was later in the day when it was dry.  After I put all the shelves back in, I was staring at piles and piles of my favorite books, and deciding where they should all go.  Very daunting.  Worse, I was distracted with the piles of books because I can’t help but crack the spines or peek at the pages I’ve tabbed in the past or flip through to see what I’ve underlined.  Do you do that?  Underline and tab and bookmark your favorite pages?  I wasn’t allowed to when I was little, but I do it all the time now, I can’t stop.

I finally decided just to organize them by category, like at a bookstore or library (wow, original concept!)  It just makes sense to group them that way.  Fiction, nonfiction, reference, design, faith, travel, etc.  I was only able to fit about 75% of my books because it was starting to feel too crowded, but so be it. I’ll either donate the rest or put them back in a closet where most of them lived before.

This was our blank wall before the built ins. 

For the full story of our IKEA Billys to built ins, read this.

Here they are all painted and filled with books + favorite things.

I played around all weekend following some of the tips from this article, including stacking the books different ways, and hanging artwork on the outside.  I finally settled on what was visually pleasing to me. 

I bought a set of four butterfly prints at an antique faire years ago and they used to hang in the bathroom, but they fit so nicely on display on the bookshelves.  I added texture with my favorite shell ball, some faux coral candlesticks, and a simple oak tree branch. Pops of color come from other collected items like bowls, candles, and glass balls.

Nothing like a few Goodwill finds to help out!  A few pinkish mauve dollar finds were primed and painted to create new bookends.

Some of my mister’s favorite things are on display too, like his mandolin (which he never plays but was a gift from a friend and it’s sculptural and beautiful) and his record player.  Baskets hold little extras like smaller books or travel guides.

Most of the white ceramics I’ve collected over time from flea markets, thrift stores, or in the clearance section of retails stores (like that lattice lantern, a discount Z Gallerie find).

Finally, I changed the old boob light on the ceiling that was bugging me. I found this oval drum shade pendant at Lowe’s for 50% off, spray painted the metal parts antique gold, and hung it above the table. I’m still debating whether to paint those chairs and I’m on the hunt for a new rug, maybe sisal.

If you’re interested in the paint color, it’s a custom mix from my stash of paints.  It’s half ‘Pewter’ and half ‘Venezuelan Sea’, both by Benjamin Moore.  I’ll try to color match it with some of my paint fan decks later today.

** Update: The pendant is the Barcelona by Good Earth Lighting.  Three close color matches to the dark teal paint are: Dutch Boy ‘Turquoise Sea’ (slightly more saturated); Ben Moore Naples Blue (slightly darker); and Ben Moore Affinity Line ‘Fiji’ (closest match).

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I rounded up a bunch of inspiration for you and some tips for setting a stylish table with ideas for all of the upcoming holidays, so here we go!

Choose the Classics.  You can’t go wrong when you opt for the traditional palettes we associate with each holiday, whether it’s the warm amber hues of Thanksgiving, the blues and whites of Hanukkah, or the classic red and white of Christmas.

Williams Sonoma

Martha Stewart

House to Home

Pinterest

Add Menus and/or Place Cards.  Everyone loves a menu card announcing the meal that’s to come, and appreciates the personalization of a table set with seasonal place cards.

Country Living; Martha Stewart

Hostess with the Mostest

Dine in the Great Outdoors.   Who says when the temperature drops all dining must take place indoors?  Don’t hesitate to set up and serve a meal outside when the view makes it worthy to linger, weather permitting.

source unknown

Sweet Something Design

Think Unexpected.   When styling a holiday table there really are no rules, so ignore traditional palettes and get creative with unpredictable color. Style your holiday table with bold pink, blue, or even vivid violet and everyone will do a double take. 

DigsDigs

source unknown

Decor Demon

 BH&G

Add Some Sparkle.  The holidays are always an excuse to bring a little bling to the table and a little glitz and sparkle will set the mood. 

hostess with the mostest

BH&G

Style at Home

Play with Natural Elements.   If sparkle isn’t your thing, go natural instead. Consider all those things in nature that are not only beautiful but often free, like leaves, acorns, branches, pinecones, greenery and found botanicals. 

BH&G; Martha Stewart

stylizmo

hostess with the mostest

BH&G

Chair Flair.   The backs of your chairs are just one more place to add a decorative detail.  Boxwood swags, mini wreaths, or even ornaments tied up with string add one more layer to set the scene.

BH&G

House to Home

Keep It Simple. At the end of the day, the simplest tablescapes are just as stylish as the elaborate ones.  All it takes to pull of a great holiday table is a few springs of greenery and some colorful bulbs to set the mood.

hgtv

Style at Home

An ornament on a plate and a napkin wrapped in Tiffany blue ribbon coupled with a tight floral arrangement complete this simple yet sophisticated setting. 

hostess with the mostest

Float evergreen springs in champagne flutes for a simple yet stunning display. 

Sunset

Spray paint a pinecone in silver and embellish with greenery and ribbon on white dishes for an elegant touch. 

Matthew Mead, via HGTV

If you’ve ever wondered where everything goes when you’re setting the table, here’s a helpful diagram for all settings casual to formal. 

I hope you’re inspired to join in on the fun and set a holiday table in your home for the Tablescape Link Party on November 30th that I announced yesterday.  All of the fall and winter holidays are included (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, New Years…). 

Oh, and I’ve added more inspiration to my Tablescapes & Mantels collection on Pinterest, plus there’s plenty of ideas to be found in my Autumn Ideas and Christmas Ideas collections too. 

Enjoy! 

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When I look at what makes a neutral space successful, it’s the combination of several design elements. With a neutral palette, the visual interest comes from the shapes of the decorative objects chosen, the contrast between light and dark, the addition of warm wood tones, the addition of metals or metallic sheens, and the layering of pattern and texture. 

I find a neutral bedroom to be soothing and restful.  Below is one of my most favorite bedrooms where several different patterns are present.  Beyond the linen headboard, you’ll see a matelassé coverlet, herringbone throw, damask drapes and a textured accent pillow combined with classic French style furnishings.  

House Beautiful

Neutral bedrooms avoid the boredom factor when multiple layers of texture and pattern are part of the design. 

via eclectic revisited

Sarah Richardson

Better Homes & Gardens

This family room space is so incredibly cozy despite its lack of color. The chunky area rug, various throw blankets, and mixture of leather, wood, and upholstered fabrics all combine to form a space anyone would be comfortable in. 

Gold accents always pair well with neutral fabrics like in these two elegant sitting rooms. 

source unknown

Veranda

Here is a no fail neutral combination: cream upholstery with exposed wood legs, woven shades, and patterned window panels. The set up is timeless and all you need to do to add a pop of color is change out the accent pillows with the seasons, add fresh flowers or a throw blanket, it works every time!

Better Homes & Gardens

In this family room, a pale sofa is paired with a textured sisal rug and there’s a touch of pattern on the accent pillows. The pops of blue are just the right touch to prevent this neutral family room from becoming too blah. 

Martha Stewart

Texture texture texture is what it’s all about!  Woven and wood materials ground this serene beachy place. 

House and Home

Here’s another combination of cream upholstery and dark furniture legs that never fails. The traditional table and architecture add an air of elegance.   

Better Homes & Gardens

The neutrals in this nursery feel more sophisticated with the use of grown up elements like a bergère chair and crystal chandelier. 

via Decorpad

These next three spaces have one big thing going for them: stone walls!  Paired with wood tones and fantastic chandeliers, the interior walls of stone add amazing natural texture.

Wisteria

Massucco Warner Miller

It’s all in the details below.  Look at all the variations in shapes and texture pulled together in a neutral palette. A coral chandelier, grasscloth wallpaper, bamboo lamp shade, mirrored sconces, and natural wood floors set a stunning scene in this dining room.

New England Home Magazine

I’m such a fan of neutral dining spaces which allow the entertainer to add any color whatsoever to any tablescape. Top it off with a classic golden chandelier, and it’s perfection in my eyes.

Skona Hem

Janie Molster

Neutrals play well together when old world style is on display like in this bathroom combining baroque carvings, marble accents, and European inspired lighting.   

via Pinterest

Taupe walls are anything but boring when partnered with crisp white wainscoting, large scale art, and fabulous home accents like those perfect stools tucked underneath a modern curved console.

Cool grays like in this foyer are warmed with the choice of woven baskets, wood floors, and accessories in golden hues.

via Pinterest

The best neutral spaces combine contrast and texture with pattern, so why not take yours up the wall with gorgeous wallpapers like these.

Thibaut

Thibaut

What say you?  Do you find neutral spaces as soothing as I do, or do you require more color in your home?  Got a favorite neutral space you adore?  Do share.

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