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Designs on Spring!

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Making small changes can create big statements for the new seasonIt’s time to spring into action and get playful. A new season is upon us, which makes it a great time to redecorate. Thankfully consumers have many options to be creative and environmentally friendly while staying within budget.

One of the biggest impacts you can have on a room is to change its color. Bright hues and unique patterns—both of which are bold and make a statement—lead the trends for 2010. And the color we’re seeing a lot of is turquoise.

Before investing in gallons of paint, I suggest you get samples to try on the wall first. And instead of painting the trim and doors white or off-white, consider painting them the same color as the walls, but using oil-based paint for easy care. To be environmentally friendly, use low-VOC paints, which won’t off-gas.

Recently, I went to market in New York and was surprised by the explosion of fresh new colors and fabrics, many of which had Middle Eastern and Byzantine patterns. These patterns also crossed over into glass and tile mosaics. The latest fabrics showed combinations of grays mixed with spa-blues and cranberry. Turquoise and navy made a big entrance, especially when combined with charcoal to create contemporary looks.

When you do decide to change a room in your home, start from the floor and work your way up. Changing out rugs is a great place to start. Consider putting old rugs in storage and bringing them back for fall. Switching out your art during the season is another way to bring a new look to your home. For spring, utilize art that is colorful or light in tone. Local artist Mike Fennelly, who also happens to be the chef at Mike’s East-West restaurant, has created a series of original art that is available at my store, at 3650 Magazine St., or at Steve Martin’s Art Gallery, at 624 Julia St.

Injecting splashes of color, pattern and texture is a great way to bring traditional furniture back to life. It is amazing how you can transform your furniture just by changing the fabric or adding pillows. Piled patterns with motifs, damask with pictorial patterns, stripes and even floral patterns are back in. You can also use a colorful throw to add some pop.

When it comes to lighting, white or brightly colored chandeliers in plaster or ceramic can make any room a focal point. Local artist Julie Neill created a series of chandeliers and sconces that bring a sense of style and glamour to any environment. Her designs resonate with unique combinations of sophistication, historical influence and celebration and juxtapose the antique with the modern—quite a dramatic tension. The chandelier pictured, named Amelie, is plaster and was inspired by 1940s French design. To see more of Neill’s work, visit her N+O store at 3822 Magazine St.

Spring into action and use this opportunity to bring light and color into your home!

To learn more about this subject or to see previous articles, visit chetpourciaudesign.com.