Predictions are that we want our lives and homes to be less complicated. With the slow economy and job market less money means less stuff and not buying stuff for the sake of buying stuff. Spending is on more expensive artwork and framing that will be a long term purchase, have more meaning, last longer and even be more unique than if they were buying at a big box store. Quality pieces with great craftsmanship will be important because our money is not going as far as it used to, we want them to last.
Consumers are opting for less formality, meaning no more formal dining rooms. We are spending more time in our kitchens and family rooms. Family time is important and consumers will make room for board games, hanging out or reading. Along these lines, this also means there won’t be televisions in each room so that the family will get together to watch TV. And, furniture needs to serve more than one purpose…modular furniture that can be repositioned, or coffee tables that store, or a side board that doubles as a TV stand.
Another trend is towards blending old with new: bold patterns, bright colors, or ethnic prints on traditional furniture pieces. Turquoise or mint green on a Bombay chest are an example. Consumers are getting more confident to mix it up. On the other end of the spectrum is pastels, neutrals, very calm color schemes. It shows a mix of their choice of styles and self-expression. These chests are from http://www.homedecorators.com/, but why not paint an old commode or chest you have around your house for alot less money?
We will not see much new in the design world until the real estate market turns around. In the mean time consumers may opt for brighter, bolder accessories that can liven up a neutral couch or décor. And, they may opt to change the accessories with the seasons.
Now that you know the current trends, are there any you want to incorporate into your decor? Any you have already implemented? (In that case you can pat yourself on the back-you are ahead of the times!!!)
Inspiration of the week: Amaryllis bulbs…My green thumbed mother bought some amaryllis bulbs after Christmas, planted them and now, the end of January I have a beautiful, multi-flowering plant. Very fun!!! I have never seen anything like this bulb, it is very exciting. I have nurtured amaryllis before and have had success for several years. Then this year, we had some events that kept me away from home more than usual and I forgot about my bulbs that I had so carefully forced into dormancy in the basement. I really don’t think I will be able to salvage those old ones, so it was an awesome surprise to get one of my moms.
Design Quote of the Week: “Make your home as comfortable and attractive as possible and then get on with living. There’s more to life than decorating. " - Albert Hadley
Remodeling update: I finally found fabric for the bay window shades. It is a Lafayette fabric named Quadrate. It is 100% polyester (I would rather have a natural material- but it will not fade in the full sun) with slight sheen and linen look. I love that it has a contemporary look with the tradition of linen. Other fabric from Lafayette can be seen online at www.lafvb.com
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