Home Décor Trends for 2011
By Kim Kornblatt of Pear Tree Interiors
It’s always exciting to hear what the experts have to say each year regarding home décor trends. Although, not everyone wants the latest and greatest, we do want to be “in the know”. Especially, when one of your friends slips it into conversation and you have no idea what they are talking about! This year, it’s not about out with the old and in with the new.
Antiques, garage sales finds and salvage items find their way into the most fabulous places. Using equal amounts of both vintage and new will help to balance a room, so you don’t have that time capsule look. Try mixing heirloom chairs with a newer style dining table or a primitive console table with a silver finished mirror. This will not only give you a unique look, but one that doesn’t appear to be too cutting edge. We’re seeing white wash instead of pure white, and casual, toned-down finishes on furniture. Some folks will be thrilled, because this is what’s known as country. Oak cabinets will come back in vogue. Well worn woods vs. imported ones create a rustic elegance, that’s sure to stay around a while.
Color trends on the horizon for 2011 range from bolds to neutrals. However, the color of the year is Honeysuckle, a dynamic reddish pink. It’s a captivating, stimulating color that encourages and uplifts. In times of stress, we need a little something to lift our spirits! Add a lively flair to interior spaces with honeysuckle patterned pillows, bedspreads or tabletop accessories. Or for a burst of energy, try painting one wall in a large room. This shade of pink can go ”Barbie” in a hurry, so keep in mind a little goes a long way. You’ll see tea-stained colors for a rustic tie-dye effect and vibrant rainbow colors from the 70’s are making a comeback. Whites will become milkier, and the use of butter yellow and creams will be even more popular. Green is still hot, as well as black and white with pops of color. Golden hues, frosted, pearl and satin finishes will make their way onto upholstery, fabrics and furniture. This will have an angelic translucent, soft look that inspires elegance & romance.
Last month we asked the Our Town readers to send in their troublesome design questions, and we were thrilled with the overwhelming response. Here are a couple we received:
Q: Is it O.K. to mix different design styles in the same room?
A: Yes, absolutely! As we discussed earlier, trends are moving away from matching sets of furniture. By mixing different styles allows the consumers to becoming more experimental, creative and less contrived. Giving a more unique and personal flair to the space.
Q: Should I use the same color and type of carpet throughout my house?
A: Yes, if possible. When choosing carpet for your home, resale is the first thought that should come to mind. Flow and continuity are much more appealing to eye than seeing where one color starts and another ends.
Decorating your home is a fun and exciting way to express yourself. Don’t let your dilemmas discourage you, let us help! Email us at peartreeinteriors@gmail.com with your questions.