Tuesday, April 03, 2012

Decorating with Red

Red!  The color of passion, fire, power, stimulation, energy and romance!

Unlike most colors in a palette, red evokes emotions.  What other color can you think of that can bring out so many different responses or describe so many situations,  such as a 'red hot' romance celebrated with red roses, a scarlet woman, 'red carpet treatment' just to name a few.

When a woman wears a red dress, she is noticed and remembered, just as a man will wear a red tie to standout and exude a semblance of power.  Red indicates danger and is the color of fire...... is used on fire engines, stop signs and, of course, red lights.

In decorating, just as blue is calming and green is serene, red is stimulating.  Whether to use a lot of red in a room, or just a splash of it here and there, can be determined by the use of the room, as well as the personality and emotional wellbeing of the homeowner. 

This color not only stimulates our appetites, but our emotions, in which case if you feel you need a lift or want stimulation, then by all means, use red.  If you feel your life is already in overdrive and you want to relax when you get home, red would definitely not be your first choice of color.

I'm sure you've heard before that restaurants often use red to stimulate their diners appetites....well, that's true. And I have heard 'never use red in a bedroom or you'll never be able to unwind!' and whatever you do, never use red in a nursery or kid's room if you want a calm and happy child!

Having said all that, take a look at the rooms below and see how many red bedrooms there are.  As stimulating as they may be, they are also warm, cosy and welcoming.  

Some of the world's greatest artists, designers and decorators use red with abandon - just another indication of their passion for life and living!  From rustic to regal, it's a knockout!

Enjoy!

Carolina Herrera's daughter in family living room

Traditional Home

BHG Cottage bunks

Cath Kidston's kitchen, London

Charles Faudree's living room

A Charlotte Moss guest room

A Tom Scheerer bedroom

Framed fabric BHG

Galen Weston's Florida home

Katrin Cargill design

Gingham and toile bedroom Toby West

Red vignette

Katrin Cargill design

Lynn von Kersting dining room

Michael Smith design

Red frames Tumblr

Mary MacDonald living room

Real Simple

Sue Ellen Gregory



Carolyne Roehm vignette

Carolyne Roehm




Friday, March 30, 2012

Red, White and Blue

This red, white and blue room is Tobi Fairley's latest showhome contribution.

Love, love, love the red chandelier and red sconces.  And look............more stripes!

Enjoy and have a great weekend!










All images via Tobi Fairley


Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Indoor Porches

















Images 1 - 5 BHG, Image 6 Southern Living
Image 7 JS Interiors



Tuesday, March 27, 2012

Shabby Chic Cottage

Hi there!

We are completely stormed in here on the island today - the bridge is closed (that connects us to the mainland), schools and businesses are closed, as well - a typical March day on the east coast, but a bit of a shock after our summer like weather of last week.

So, I still have summer living on my mind - my mental escape from what is really happening here.  And this cottage has such a cool, soothing, serene interior I just had to share it with you!

Enjoy!
























All images via BHG








Monday, March 26, 2012

East Coast Cottage Living

Good morning, Everyone!

A little snow here this morning and very cool again.  Winter may linger a while longer.

Perhaps that's why I still have cottage living on my mind - I am definitely thinking pink and warmer climes.

Today's cottage is by east coast designer, Tracey Rapisardi......I've seen her work before and I really like her light, colorful touch.

And this cottage epitomizes casual, summer and cottage living with beadboard, rattan, painted furniture, quilts - it has it all!

Hope you enjoy!

































All images via BHG