Gray, in shades from slate to charcoal to lead, is expected to be the top neutral for 2010. We are already seeing a surge in gray in the fashion world, thus walls and home decor are certain to follow. Another neutral to look for is taupe with a yellow/green undercurrent. Neutrals with a pop of unusual and strong color will add optimism to the balance.
Izmir, Sandpiper Studios, p. 32
Schemes will be monochromatic, for the most part, bringing balance to design and calm to the home. “Consumers need a place to rejuvenate and even indulge themselves.” (Paint and Decorating Retailer, July 2009 issue)
Shand Kydd II, Blue Mountain Wallpaper, p. 132
Accents will be bright oranges, brilliant yellows, strong corals, amazing aquas, hints of metallics, and deep purples. These colors will feed the need for escaping and to brighten up small, quiet spaces. The industry expects consumers to spend money in affordable ways to enhance their moods and create optimism on the home front.
Eco-friendly design is the new “it” phrase and green the new “buzz word.” Everyone wants to be green. People are thinking more about renewable resources and carbon footprints, especially your children or grandchildren who are more aware than you the toll we are placing on this planet. Try a grasscloth or other natural fiber wallpaper and create a space with three-dimensionality, rich texture and serene colors.
Thibaut’s new Grasscloth Resource will give you an edge on eco-friendly interior design. “Bringing a hint of nature indoors, these wallpapers include woven jute, seagrass, boodlecloth, extra fine sisal, raffia, and paper weaves, along with two grasscloth hand prints.” (Thibaut press package)
Health and wellness are becoming a trend. Why not create a lifestyle of health and wellness? Begin with your office. In these stressful times, more Americans are working longer hours for less money. Spas are having a banner year with those who are stressed and need relief.
Why not bring the spa to work? Paper your walls with soothing colors and relaxing designs. Work in a cubicle where wallpaper is not an option for the walls? Use it to create notice boards, to line book cases, etc. and see if it doesn’t just lower your stress level a little.
Better Homes and Gardens 100 Decorating Ideas under $100
Hospitals and doctors offices are often so sterile that they only treat the symptoms and not the whole person. Case in point, a colleague of mine was recently in a doctor’s office that made him want to leave as soon as possible. Doctors, you have a growing number of patients and never enough time to see them all, so why not make their sometimes long wait a little easier? Consider that some wallpapers and wall murals can be used as artwork for an entire wall.
