Interior Design Trends for 2011 – Black is Back!

I had the pleasure of attending an event hosted by Lynda Reeves at the Elte showroom last night where she revealed some of the key trends for 2011.
One of the most dramatic trends for 2011 will be the introduction of black into our interior spaces – think black walls, black furniture and even black kitchens!
Black is not for the faint of heart as it is inherently dramatic. Used in small doses it can help to create some much needed contrast, but when applied to larger areas it can fundamentally change the character and mood of a room. Black does however add instant chic to a space. Think about the beautiful silhouettes you would create if you placed a white sofa and a couple of sculptural white lamps in front of a black wall – beautiful!
Of course using pure black is not essential to pull off the look – a softer option would be to choose a charcoal gray – try Benjamin Moore’s Gravel Gray 2127-30 on a low commitment accent wall.

If you are wondering how this new dark colour translates in kitchens take a look at the December cover of Canadian House & Home.
Enjoy your dramatic new look!

Essential Reading for Wallpaper Lovers

I have to share my latest coffee table purchase with those of you who love vividly patterned wallpapers. 
The book is called The Ultimate Wallpaper Guide by Charlotte Abrams and would make a lovely gift for any design aficionado. 
The book has a beautifully edited collection of papers that are sure to excite and inspire.  In situ photos show clever applications and how to layer artwork over top of wallpaper – a challenge with bolder prints requiring a deft touch.
A beautiful and inspirational book – happy reading.

Task Lights – Not Just for Tasks Anymore

Task lights are still enjoying a moment in the limelight as they continue to grace the pages of interior design mags everywhere. 
No longer are they purely functional lights that simply illuminate a work surface, now they are objects of art in their own right by adding a sculptural element to spaces. 
Use them to highlight a beautiful object or chair and consider adding them to a more formal space to create an edgier look. 
See the October issue of Living etc for a beautiful selection.

Reclaimed Vanity

You may have read an earlier blog about an antique dresser that we recently used to add some elegance to a bathroom reno… I had promised an “after” photo so here it is. I must admit that the timing of this blog isn’t exactly accidental, it actually coincides with an interview that I recently did on reclaimed pieces of furniture for Lifestyle Magazine. The article emphasizes the ‘green’ aspect of using reclaimed pieces and explains how they can add originality and character to your space. Have a read for yourself http://www.lifestylemagazine.ca/revitalized_refurbished_rooms, and enjoy the ‘after’ shot.

Interior Design Show 2010

If you went to the Interior Design Show (IDS) at the Metro Convention Centre over the weekend you’ll know what I mean when I say that reclaimed wood furniture is definitely having a moment in the world of interior design. In fact environmentally responsible pieces of wood furniture of all types were popping up at every corner. I particularly love the Lucy dining table and chairs by Reorient. In fact I love everything in the Lucy collection. They’ve achieved a look that I call refined rustic. The curved legs used in this collection help these pieces sit comfortably in a contemporary or even more traditional setting if done properly. Don’t forget, these days it’s all about the mix.

Colour trends for 2010

Is it your new year’s resolution to update your tired old colour scheme in 2010? Are you bored by your beige walls?
Many designers are jumping on the grey train as the new neutral colour from which to start their colour scheme. Use it as your base colour in varying shades on walls and large upholstered pieces such as a sofa.
Try lighter shades like Benjamin Moore’s Gray Owl (2137-60) and then add depth and dimension to your chosen accent walls with Sea Haze (2137-50), or for real drama go for bust with Desert Twilight (2137-40). These are your neutral base colours which set the stage for your accent colour of choice.
If you want to be on trend in 2010 the only accent colour you will consider is turquoise according to the trend folk at Pantone, who have identified it as the most important colour for the new year. Try it on an accent wall if you are feeling bold – Florida Keys Blue (2050-40) seems to hit the right note.
Just want to dabble in the trend and have the flexibility to change it up without having to hire a painter? A few well placed throw cushions might just give your space all the pop it needs to feel fresh and on-trend for 2010.

Pick of the week: Strand Chandelier by Ontario’s own Jennifer Graham

I was pursuing the December issue of House & Home magazine when this stunning light fixture (available at Made on Dundas St) caught my eye.
Created from porcelain and reclaimed materials, it has a certain rustic modern appeal. To me it is an understated statement piece – a fine balance has been achieved indeed.
You’ll need to get in line after me for this one.

Pick of the week: Stacaro’s Sophia Loren Chair

In sourcing furniture for clients, every now and again I find a certain piece that sets my heart racing like this delicious Sophia Loren stool found at Stacaro. The petite proportions of this beautiful piece make a grand style statement and can add a touch of glamour to any space. The scale of the stool means it can be accommodated in even the tightest of foyers. Check back for more Picks of the week!

Two Colourful Days Hosting The Bay’s Interior Design Clinic

I had the great pleasure of being selected by The Bay to host their Interior Design Clinic for the past couple of days as a special offering to their customers. And what fun it was! Customers came in thick and fast with design dilemmas relating to their renovation or decorating projects. After speaking to several customers a clear theme became apparent: people are terrified of choosing colours! I can understand the hesitation (or paralysis in some cases!).

Colour is one of the post powerful elements available to designers. No other single element (line, scale, form, rhythm to name a few) can so distinctively define the character and mood of a room like colour can. Colour is tricky but it is not rocket science. Here are some key questions to ask when contemplating a new colour scheme: Is it a calm or active space? How much time will be spent in this room (could you spend eight hours in a fuchsia room? No, but maybe a few minutes as you pass through)? What sort of activities will take place in this space? Will you be in there mostly in the morning or the evening? And most importantly, how do you want to feel while you are in this space (relaxed? energized? creative? social?). It is not strictly a formula, as personal preferences for certain colours will always play into it, but asking these types of questions just might help to unlock some of that paralysis. For keen DIYers and those interested in learning more, try Johannes Ittens book, The Elements of Colour. Thanks again to The Bay for making me a part of a fantastic event!

Art by Designers

Who would have thought there was so much artistic talent in the Interior Design Industry? I was literally blown away by the talent of my fellow interior designers when I visited the Association of Registered Interior Designers of Ontario (ARIDO) Art By Designers exhibition earlier today. There were so many beautiful pieces of art and it really reminded me of the power that a painting or sculpture can have in a room. To me, there is absolutely nothing wrong with designing an entire space around a piece of artwork that you love. It can define a direction and provide inspiration for the overall look of a room. Here’s a tip for buying artwork: only buy pieces that you connect with emotionally. If it’s an investment piece then it’s likely to be in your home for years to come and wouldn’t it be nice if it made you smile every time you walked past it?

Antique Piece adds Elegance to Bathroom Reno

I just love a good find! Yesterday I was out shopping with a client for an antique piece of furniture that could be transformed into a beautiful vanity for their master bedroom. After pounding the pavement we found our piece tucked away under a load of nick-nacks in Passion for the Past on Queen West. The century old dresser has an elegant curvy frame with a beautiful apron and festoon detailing. This will really make for a one-of-a-kind vanity and will give the client the elegant look that she wanted. I will post some “after” photos so make sure you check back to see the transformation!

Brit Abroad

Last night I had the opportunity to meet Tom Dixon, furniture designer-of-the-moment, to hear him speak about his new collection that has just landed in Toronto. Having admired his designs from afar, it was truly exciting to get up close and personal with one of my design heros. I’m particularly in love with his modern take on the traditional wingback chair. With its play on proportion and sinuous curves, it has the power to add drama and glamour to any space.