Big! Bold! Beautiful!

Are you wondering what decorating trends are hot right now? Well, as we come to the end of 2012 and enter into 2013, there are some exciting looks and colors that are making quite a splash onto the design stage.

Bold Colors!

So many new design looks are involving the use of bold colors. There is no longer a fear of using “color”. You can either chose to use bright bold colors in all-over-wall-color or add it sparingly into your accessory story–accent pillows, throw blankets, florals, individual furnishings such as an accent chair or a painted armoire.

In paint colors, the current “teals” and “shades of grays” are still very popular and will be going into the new year. But some vibrant unexpected colors such as full range of “purples” and “tangerine/oranges” are proving to be very appealing and beautifully implemented. The big news is that green is becoming the new “neutral”!

Bold Patterns!

It’s all about patterns, patterns, patterns!!! I love that there is so much wonderful pattern being used! Mix and match patterns from geometrics to animal prints to bold damask. And, along with the patterns, comes the “bold color” being used within these pattern designs!! Be brave, use a pattern in your bed pillows and then a different pattern for your area rug under the bed… or try a pattern on your accent chair in the living room and then play with another fun corresponding pattern for some accessories, like lamp shades, painted ceramics, or drape treatments. Have fun experimenting!

Yes, Wallpaper!

Believe it or not, wallpaper is making a huge and beautiful comeback! It’s bold, it’s patterned, it’s updated. It’s definitely not like I remember it when I was a child in the 70’s. Wallpaper is being used in a way that adds so much character to a room setting. It’s not just being applied to cover walls from top to bottom, side to side like it used to be, without any thought. To me, the addition of wallpaper can tell a story, can complete a style adventure, and ultimately can add feeling and possibility to a space!

Outdoors In!

Where do I begin? The idea here encompasses so many attractive propositions. This trend has designers bringing everything from rustic to industrial indoors. My favorite is the dining tables made of raw wood slabs, emphasizing the natural edges and showing off the dramatic natural graining and shape. They are finished off with industrial forged iron bases. This style can be placed into a modern setting or accessorized to work in a country chic setting. My next favorite are all the industrial style elements being used such as vintage metal warehouse stools, rusted antique light fixtures, warehouse style metal furnishings. And we certainly can’t forget the soft elements such as burlap fabric! And also the push for more animal print patterns and bird motifs along with natural grasses are very popular.