Monthly Archives: January 2012

Some great inspiration for when you need to create a wall to divide a space.

If you’re afraid of colour but want to give some a try in your home, start with the smaller accessories first. For those daring, and lovers of colour, just go for it! Here are some awesome, very colourful spaces to draw some inspiration from. The key to keeping it right for you? – only choose colours you absolutely love!

Using what you already have is a great start for any space. Here are a few ideas to add to that.
An all white scheme makes the space feel more elegant. An inexpensive sofa is made richer with vibrant mis-matched pillows. A faux wall treatment is used on one wall instead of wall paper. Simple Ikea curtains do the trick. And adding contrast in the lamp shade, coffee table and accessories adds depth.

If you don’t have money for art, here is a nifty idea. Buy various inexpensive medallions from the hardware store and paint them different shades of your favourite colour. I love the way the yellow is subtle against the walls and foreground. Monochromatic done well.

I’m not pushing the yellow, but it just so happens that the little yellow chair is a cast-off with some new fabric on it and it adds all the wow factor to this space! Less expensive than buying new. Ikea or other modular shelving units gives you a built-in look for a fraction of the cost.

Keep it simple. There is nothing more elegant than pairing back. If all you have are the basics, just add one or two things that you absolutely love, and the whole space will feel more comfortable and affluent.

And my favourite -just paint it out! Choose your favourite colour or colours, and use paint to remedy any furniture problems. Start with neutral soft furnishings and paint out the rest for a cohesive and elegant look.

When it comes to lighting, there is nothing cozier than wall sconces. They emit a nostalgic and romantic feel, often found in dining rooms. But do consider them in other areas of your home too – living room, bedrooms and even kitchens and bathrooms for the perfect touch. Don’t have your house hardwired for them? Try them in candle form for a similar feel.

Orange is a hot colour for 2012 so why not incorporate it into your home for a fresh and fun accent. Last year pink was hot, so now I’m going to suggest you mix them together because it can make such an amazing impact. See for yourself here.

You can start subtly with just a fantastic print in a pillow on the sofa or a tea towel in the kitchen.

Here is an example of a more rustic space that has some subtle hits of pinks and oranges – I think the impact is pretty fantastic!

I love the way this bathroom was splashed with all sorts of oranges and pinks. It’s really just a simple bathroom, but the colourful accents give it amazing life.

A soft pink in this little girl’s bedroom would be typical if not for the hit of orange crush on the headboards and table lamp. Take that away and it’s just ho-hum.

This white kitchen is made gorgeous with pinks and oranges – so vibrant!

How’s this for a fantastic mix of orange and pink? Big hits of colour on the white furnishings with fabrics and in the painting are perfect. And then Bling! – the chandelier is awesome!

Have you inherited a retro pink bathroom and are wondering what to do with it?

Make it great with a retro inspired and colourful shower curtain like this one. It might seem like you actually intended to have that pink tile installed yourself. Then don’t forget to add some great orange towels and accessories to complete the look.

I am in love with this orange and pink colour combination and think it can have its place in your home too if you dare. And as you can see, it doesn’t have to happen in big ways – make it subtle and enjoy its warmth.