What's new for 2012

What do I love most about moving into a new year? Seeing what will be popping up in the world of interior design, of course!
This year, largely due to the fact that the economy is keeping people put in their current homes, there is a lean towards recreating rooms that have become boring by incorporating small affordable changes that offer a maximum of comfort and personality.

Let's take a closer look.


Color trends:
Adding color to a bland room is the most effective and affordable way to make a change to a room. This year vivid colors (especially jewel tones) are put in combination with ivory, brown, silver, and camel/caramel yellows for a chic and comfortable atmosphere. Keep in mind to balance the color scheme in your room - 50% neutral, 30% color, 20% coordinating or contrasting accent color.

Materials and textures:
This year the push is towards smooth glossy surfaces and luxurious textured fabrics. Velvet and polished wood fit well into the continuing trend of the industrial look. Whereas tufted upholstery and sleek steel or glass fit well together for a chic vintage room makeover. Introducing rich fabrics such as silks, wools and velvets in patterns and solids in the form cushions, draperies, and rugs add elegance and comfort at an affordable price.

Decor and more:
This year the trends are mixing decorative accessories made of materials such as stone, metal, wood and glass - think polished, shiny and flashy. Large mirrors and mirrored tiles as well as metallic or beaded wallpapers can also be a unique and spectacular addition to your rooms. That being said, your choice of decor should enhance the existing style of your rooms. It should represent your unique character and work as a whole to bring your room to life.


With trends coming and going year by year, most people are hesitant to incorporate them into their homes for fear they will go out of style too quickly or cost to much to implement. However, while working with clients I find most of them already have the latest trends lurking on their shelves or in their closets. Yes, recycling an old stained embroidered tablecloth from your mother-in-law into throw cushions for your bed or repainting that tired end table high gloss black are low cost relooking options that people don't even think of. So if you're inspired by these ideas and need help getting your new look or want some ideas on how to update your rooms. Give me a call. Happy relooking for 2012!