The new year will soon be upon us and I think this is a great time to plan for an exciting design year to come. Let's shake things up a little next year.
This photo, courtesy of PPG Paints, is a great example of how to do things a little differently in order to achieve a unique and interesting decor. Rather than paint the room one colour, the designer here has chosen several colours, which are separated by simple wooden trim. The trim is painted white to coordinate with the baseboards and cove molding for uniformity. Even if your room doesn't have the architectural details of large baseboards and crown molding, you can still use this interesting paint technique to achieve a decor outcome with tons of personality. I can imagine this look in a bedroom or even a powder room.
Notice the blue accent colour is at eye height. This was done on purpose to catch the eye. The length of trim at eye level has a lip on which one can display books and so on. This was also done on purpose. While you don't have to follow this rule, it does make sense to keep the accent colour and artwork at eye height.
If you don't want to or can't install wooden trim because you're renting (and have permission to paint) you can separate the colours with a white band of paint instead of wood. If you're starting with a white wall then all you have to do is mask off the trim area beforehand, ensuring that the lines are level. If your wall already has colour, paint it out white before you begin and follow the steps above. This will give you a clean palette from which to work your design magic.
The great feature of this paint technique is that you can use small bits of leftover paint to achieve your look if you happen to have some on hand. Check with friends or family to see what they have stashed away. They might just be grateful to have the leftover paint taken off of their hands. Use all indoor acrylic or all indoor alkaline; don't mix the two. You may even happen upon a remnant of wallpaper or panelling that can be worked into the scheme. You just never know what will inspire you.
The light fixture in this room is another great addition to this unique space. This one happens to be a plug-in swag fixture, which is a breeze to install. At first glance the fixture appears to have six hanging bulbs, however, only three of them are real; the other three are painted shadows that run from the ceiling and on to the wall. Clever! If you can replace a dated fixture with something more unique then by all means take the leap. A hanging light or swag lamp will offer more drama than a flush-mounted fixture. Consider the options as well as your lighting needs. You'll be living with this fixture for years so spend a little more and purchase one that will be current for the years to come. If not a new fixture then a funky floor or table lamp might fit the bill.
I love the retro accent table. The style and colour are perfect for this space and give the room personality. Watch at yard sales, thrift stores and so on for unique items like this table. It may be an antique washstand that you can paint in a fresh colour, or you may happen upon a vintage dressing table. Don't forget that you can update your found treasure, so if it's not in good shape, consider taking it anyway if you think you can revamp it to work into your design. Your treasure doesn't necessarily have to be furniture either. You might have a giant cut log piece from a felled tree hanging around that could make a unique accent table or stool. Keep your mind open to all possibilities.
Paint is such a great way to update your space in a DIY fashion. Consider the possibilities for a bright, fresh decor for 2016.
Happy New Year!
