Each new year has me looking at predictions for design trends and colours that will be with us for a while. I read this morning that a well-appointed room - one that’s impressive, luxurious and fully furnished - stands the test of time. I fully agree with that because I lean toward a timeless, classic look myself. That’s not to say, however, that we shouldn’t add some fun to the mix and keep things current. Keeping up with trends and new colour palettes is the perfect way to do just that.

Make sure you my free “Principles of Design” at the bottom of this post. It’s like your own little cheat sheet teaching you some of the elements of good design in a room. You’ll be on your way to your own well-appointed space in no time.

Blending of styles has been mentioned in a previous post I wrote not too long ago as a new design trend and I’m seeing it as a great way to add interest and bring in lots of texture to our decor. That’s pretty great for me personally, as I’m all about touch. If you’ve read my About page, you’ll know that one of my favourite pass times is a visit to my local fabric store where I absolutely have to touch-touch-touch it all!

Here’s a great example of texture adding immediate tactile interest to an otherwise bare space. The faux fur pillow begs a few gentle strokes and who wouldn’t want to cuddle up with the giant-stitched knit blanket. Even the window treatment has a softness to it that adds a beautiful contrast to the hard lines of the room.

I can’t help but wonder what the rest of the room decor ended up being. Looking out to that inviting balcony and the view across, it could have been a classic French flat in days gone by boasting white washed walls, high ceilings, decorative mouldings and cornices, tall bookshelves flanking a lovely fireplace. And weren’t the French masters of combining gorgeous antiques or worn items with new finds? Truly ahead of the trend.

This bright inviting dining space appears to be in a suburban home judging from the view out those patio doors. That didn’t hold them back from designing a space filled with rustic charm seen in the brick wall feature, floor tiles, and country-chic lighting. The juxtaposition of the wooden table with the modern chairs adds interest and keeps the overall look from being overdone. Adding layers, like the table runners, is an important decorating feature for pulling it all together when dressing a space. Down the centre of the table we see different metal accessories, and those stone plant pots are pretty easy on the eye while adding even more texture.

Clean, classic, and architecture to die for! This bathroom is my idea of near perfection, but then I’m a total fool for a clawfoot tub. I absolutely love the surprise of the chandelier here. A beautiful contemporary fixture in an old-world feeling space. The contemporary touches continue with the art work and updated wall tiles that work beautifully with a sheen that brings your eye right to the bathtub finish. The wood flooring brings a lovely warmth and grounds the space. Did you notice the shape of the mirror that repeats the window outline? The brass fixtures, pipe shelf, and glass table add unity and more warmth. The fabulous texture on the ceiling speaks for itself. Lots of great design principles going on here. Blended styles working together for a beautiful end result.

Quick Tips

Think:

organic, rough-hewn surfaces
textures adding depth and warmth - rich velvets, polished walnut, elaborate mosaic tiles
different decor era styles with eco chic living
walls you can feel - covered in grasscloth, fabric or even leather
surprise points - a velvet sofa with a rustic wood-topped coffee table

Paint It With Texture

I’m talking directly about Benjamin Moore’s “Century” line of paint offered in 75 colours. It’s said to add a velvet-like appearance and according to Ellen O’Neil, Benjamin Moore’s creative director, could be beautiful in your living room, a formal entry, master bedroom or home office. If you’re lucky enough to have a home library I think it would be a perfect application there too, giving the room a hushed feel. It’s a truly artisanal product right to the end where each can is signed by their VP of manufacturing, the man who mixed it.