Design Style

Clients sometimes ask our design professionals what their personal interior design style preference is. The answer is most likely something along the lines of “it’s your preference that is important.” Learning about different design styles is important for learning about your own taste but for now we’ll present a primer on the playfulness of Postmodernism.

Postmodernism

For making your own statement, for asserting your own individuality, for adding personal creativity, for being a bit rebellious—there’s no style like Postmodernism. The Museum of Modern Art describes Postmodernism as “a reaction against modernism. It is less a cohesive movement than an approach and attitude toward art, culture, and society. Its main characteristics include anti-authoritarianism, or refusal to recognize the authority of any single design style or definition of what art should be; and the collapsing of the distinction between high culture and mass or popular culture, and between art and everyday life. Postmodern art and architecture can be also characterized by a deliberate use of earlier styles and conventions, and an eclectic mixing of different artistic and popular styles and mediums.”

Flexibility

For some of us, it’s no surprise that Postmodern design philosophy arose in the 1960s, a time when parts of society increasingly challenged authority. Architects, designers and other creative types were bucking rigid modern functionalism in favor of flexible living spaces reflecting owners’ personalities. A usual goal of Postmodern interior design is to create a space that is truly unique.

Furnishings used in Postmodernism are limited only by one’s imagination and ability to find the unusual. An interior designer, of course, can help with that. Our access to resources is quite extensive.

This is your opportunity to playfully mix materials, colors, textures and sometimes even unconventional art and furniture. Designers love to help clients find that one “statement piece” that really sets a room apart. With Postmodern design, the entire room makes a statement. A bold one.

Be Creative

Such creativity can be applied to any room. In a living room, for example, use a mix of vintage and modern furniture. Add bold, colorful rugs with geometric patterns. Accessorize with a combination of high-end art and playful décor items.

In the kitchen: Make your foundation brightly colored cabinets paired with stainless steel appliances. Open shelving will allow you to display an eclectic mix of dishware. Unique backsplashes with bold patterns can also add personality.

In a bedroom: Combine classic with contemporary furniture. An unusually shaped headboard with a bold color can make a striking statement. Top it off with layers of bedding in different patterns and textures.

Don’t forget the bathroom: It’s a wonderful space for very bold wallpaper or tiles with geometric or floral patterns. Mingling retro and modern fixtures can be fun, especially with colorful faucets. Clinch the look with quirky accessories like an uncommonly shaped mirror.

If challenging traditional design norms and prioritizing individuality and creativity sounds like you, work with Decorating Den Interiors. We can help you include elements of surprise and humor in your home.

Contact us or call 877-538-8332 today

Join Our Newsletter

If you enjoyed reading this interior design blog, sign up for our monthly newsletter. They’re never too long and will brighten your day!

The post Have Fun with Postmodern Playfulness appeared first on Michelle Jett - Decorating Den Interiors.

Finding your personal design style

When you embrace your individual style, your home can become a personal museum of all the things you love. What better way for your family and guests to learn what exactly makes you tick?  When you feel relaxed in your space, other people will too.

Whether you are working on your own or with an interior designer, you’ll need to start with a general idea of what you’re looking for. You don’t need to have your own style figured out in full. But it does help to have a general idea of what goals you’re trying to achieve or what spaces you’re trying to transform.

To help you get a bit more detailed in your thinking, here are some tips to help you on your journey of interior design self-awareness. 

Create a Mood Board

A mood board is a visual tool that helps you communicate your design concepts and ideas. It’s a collection of images, materials, color palettes, and other elements arranged to evoke a particular style or feeling. Before getting started, determine the theme or concept you want to convey through your mood board. Whether it’s a specific interior style, a color palette, a mood, or a project concept, having a clear idea will guide your selection process and ensure cohesiveness. If you need some help, just do some online research. 

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words

Go beyond your mood board and collect some images of rooms you like. Our website is an excellent resource for images.  Analyze each room and make notes about the specifics in each that you especially like and why you like them. Pay attention to colors, patterns, furniture styles, and decorative accents that consistently appear in your selections. Are there any common themes emerging?

Design for your lifestyle 

At Michelle Jett – Decorating Den Interiors, we’ve been dedicated to Lifestyle Decorating, with a central focus on creating spaces that fits within our client’s lifestyle.  Reflect on your own, and your family’s, lifestyle, interests, and personality to determine what you want your space to feel like. Do you prefer a cozy and rustic vibe, a sleek and modern aesthetic, or a colorful and eclectic atmosphere.

Research Design Styles

Familiarize yourself with different interior design styles by researching and learning about their characteristics, history, and key elements. Some of the more popular styles include Mid-Century Modern, Industrial, Bohemian, and Coastal. More recently, new styles such as Japandi, Hygge, and Biophilic have popped up on the scene. And of course, there is Sustainable Design. 

Experiment with Samples

Before making any significant design decisions, experiment with samples of paint colors, fabrics, and materials to see how they look and feel in your space. This will help you visualize your ideas and make informed choices.

Start Small

You don’t have to overhaul your entire space at once. Start small by updating one room or area at a time, incorporating new elements, and gradually refining your style as you go along.

Design by Michelle Jett

Seek Professional Guidance

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about defining your style, consider working with us. Contact us today and we can get started exploring your style.

Call 877-538-8332 or Contact Us

Join Our Newsletter

If you enjoyed reading this interior design blog, sign up for our monthly newsletter. They’re never too long and will brighten your day!

The post Finding your Personal Design Style appeared first on Michelle Jett - Decorating Den Interiors.

The Pantone Color of the Year for 2024 is: Dah Dah Dah TaDaaahh.

PEACH FUZZ. Yep, Peach Fuzz it is. Pantone 13—1023

“In seeking a hue that echoes our innate yearning for closeness and connection, we chose a color radiant with warmth and modern elegance. A shade that resonates with compassion, offers a tactile embrace, and effortlessly bridges the youthful with the timeless.” That’s from Leatrice Eiseman, executive director, Pantone Color Institute

Peach Fuzz, claims the Pantone website, “captures our desire to nurture ourselves and others. It’s a velvety gentle peach tone whose all-embracing spirit enriches mind, body, and soul.”

While Pantone may be THE Color of the Year, there are others.

Our LIVV Home Furnishings Collection partner Benjamin Moore has proclaimed Blue Nova has its 2024 Color of the Year, described as “violet and blue coming together in the elevated, sumptuous hue.”

Blue Nova by Benjamin Moore

Adding to the kaleidoscope are: Persimmon by HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams; Ironside by Dutch Boy; Cracked Pepper by Behr; Renew Blue by Valspar, and Limitless by Glidden.

Cracked Pepper by Behr

How did all this start anyway?

Voila! We found an article at ArchitecturalDigest.com titled Here’s How Color of the Year Mania Came to Be.

“In the 1957 romantic comedy Funny Face, Kay Thompson—playing a larger-than-life fashion editor inspired by Diana Vreeland–leads a musical number in which she marshals her staff (and presumably the world at large) to “think pink!” Bolts of Pepto Bismol–colored fabric unfurl across her carpeted office floor as she tells her junior editors to “bury the beige.” As it turns out, Funny Face was right on schedule. In real life, pink was all the rage, dousing everything from a 1957 Ford Thunderbird to a 1957 RCA Whirlpool electric range. The parallel underscored a uniquely 20th-century phenomenon—that colors themselves could have moments.”

Isn’t that funny since this is still the season of Barbie pink?

More from that article: “It can be tempting to think of color trends mere whim, or—when a trend really takes off—as a lucky stroke of creative genius. But as that other esteemed fictional fashion editor, Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada, famously
schooled her hapless assistant Andy, the colors of consumer products are never an accident. They are deliberately chosen, work their way through retail networks high and low, and end up tinting the wardrobes of even those who claim to be indifferent to fashion.”

The Pantone Color System has been the standard for color matching since 1963. In 1999, the Pantone Color Institute created the Pantone Color of the Year educational program to engage the design community and color enthusiasts around the world in a conversation around color. The Pantone website states: “We wanted to draw attention to the relationship between culture and color. We wanted to highlight to our audience how what is taking place in our global culture is expressed and reflected through the language of color. This thought process rings just as true today as it did back in 1999. That’s one of the major reasons why, each year, so many around the world look forward to our Pantone Color of the Year announcement.’

Pantone may not have been the first, though. Pratt & Lambert, a paint manufacturer geared to the interior-designer market, claims their program dates to 1996

In any case, how does all this help the consumer?

First, it does stimulate some fun conversation and debate, even if it’s only about: How in the world do they come up with those names?

Second, it fosters creativity. Most of us don’t want to be boring with our interiors. Colors of the year make us think beyond the basic red, blue, yellow, green, or black and white, or even beige.

Third, it helps us learn more paint brand names. Although I’m not sure how important that is.

Color plays an important role in how interior decorating affects mental health. Color moves us. Color can set a mood and create a conversation. The website colorpsychology.org puts it this way: “It can excite or soothe your mood, raise or lower your blood pressure, even whet your appetite! Whether it’s innate or learned, it’s undeniable that color has a vital impact on how we go about our lives.”

Renew Blue by Valspar

So take your pick and make 2024 more colorful. And if you need help figuring out how to incorporate these colors into your home, reach out to us today!

The post A Peachy Start to the New Year appeared first on Michelle Jett - Decorating Den Interiors.

Black is a transformative color; it can be that dramatic focal point your space craves. A carefully chosen piece of furniture, a set of luxurious window treatments, or exquisite accessories can elevate your interior design. The expert touch lies in harmoniously weaving black into the tapestry of your space, perhaps complemented by accents of opulent gold. This harmonious pairing will undoubtedly elicit your guests’ gasps of awe and appreciation.

But why stop there? Imagine adorning your walls with black and embracing geometric shapes and metallic tones through exquisite wallpapers. From tween rooms that give them confidence for the next stage in life to sophisticated primary bedrooms that exude a sense of calm and luxury, black-infused wallpapers can become the magnetic center of your space.

As in all things design, balance is vital. Decorating with black doesn’t mean surrendering to a somber or stark ambiance. Quite the contrary, black can transform your living space into a stylish, inviting haven when artfully combined with other colors and textures. It’s about striking that perfect equilibrium, just like crafting a memorable outfit that leaves an indelible impression.

If you’re ready to explore the world of interior design with black as your muse, I invite you to embark on this journey with us. Our team of skilled professionals at Michelle Jett, Decorating Den Interiors is ready to guide you through the art of infusing sophistication and elegance into your home with the timeless power of black. Contact us today! Together, we’ll unveil the exquisite potential that the color black holds in the realm of interior design. Elevate your space, and let’s paint a masterpiece with the art of black.

The post Embracing the Timeless Elegance of Black in Interior Design appeared first on Michelle Jett - Decorating Den Interiors.

Exploring Color Theory: Why Beige Works

Some may argue that beige is outdated, but it’s quite the opposite. This versatile color works in almost all contexts and styles, making it classic and timeless. Because it’s neutral, it arguably goes with everything! If you’re gunning for a Maximalist style, beige is a fantastic choice to play a supporting role to other brighter saturated colors. Should you be more of a Minimalist, this subtle color can even form the most significant portion of your color palette.

Although beige doesn’t technically exist on the color wheel, it’s still considered a warm color, which means it’s the perfect complement to reds, oranges, and yellows. It still works beautifully as a base color for cooler shades of blue, green, or purple.

Naturally, it also goes with other neutrals like gray, black, and white. Overall, creating a calm and cozy atmosphere is a fantastic choice. Because it’s quite light, it helps a space appear bigger than it is.

Design Styles That Prove Beige Is Best

Because this color is so adaptable, it suits all sorts of interior design aesthetics, from mid-century modern and bohemian to Victorian and Art Deco. Let’s unpack that a little now.

Minimalism

We’ll begin with Minimalism because it’s often used as an umbrella term for a host of other styles, such as contemporary and modern design. As the name suggests, Minimalism (in the visual arts and design) is all about doing more with less. It prioritizes simplicity, and neutral tones, including beige, often characterize it.

Scandinavian

This design style focuses on functionality rather than beauty for its own sake. It emerged in Nordic countries such as Sweden and Finland in the 1950s, and its popularity soon reached all four corners of the globe. Since the Scandi approach values practicality, beige is often used because it matches many patterns and other shades.

Rustic

Rustic encompasses many styles, such as coastal, Tuscan, and cottage. It’s a very down-to-earth aesthetic that highlights natural beauty. You can also consider bohemian (or “boho”) as a rustic look. Beige is inherently earthy (think stone and clay) and treats this style well.

Mid-century modern

People often use this style when they want their homes to have a “retro” feel. It appeared shortly after the end of the Second World War and gained steam during the 1950s (hence the name). You’ll often see beige used in flooring and walls, owing to its potential role as a blank canvas for furniture and other home decor.

Beige From the Windows To the Walls

Off the bat, it’s crucial to bear in mind that beige isn’t a singular shade. Instead, it comes in varying undertones, so be sure to select the right one, as those subtle variations can make a significant difference to your overall palette.

As mentioned earlier, beige is a fantastic base color for your color scheme. You can pair it with dark shades of a cool color like emerald green, plum purple, and peacock blue to create an air of elegance and sophistication. Add warm tones such as crimson red, apricot, or golden yellow to make the space more inviting.

Not the greatest fan of deeper colors? You can also mix beige with bright colors like fuchsia, lime green, electric blue, or cyan. Light tones work better with neon colors, while darker undertones pair best with jewel tones. Spice up beige walls using an accent color on just one wall to create a stunning color combination.

Alternatively, you can incorporate another neutral color like gray, brown, and earthy red to paint a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. If you take that route, include lighter shades such as cream or ivory for a little contrast; otherwise, the room can get a bit dull!

Decorating a Living Room With Beige

While beige can work in any room of the house, it’s particularly well-suited to living rooms because it’s comforting and homely. A lighter beige is excellent for curtains because it complements natural light and makes a room feel airy and open (especially useful if your living room isn’t all that big, to begin with). Using beige paint on walls around areas of exposed brick creates dimension and contrast.

If you don’t want a primarily beige room, consider using just a beige furry rug or throw blanket to add some texture to the space. Using beige around intricate architectural details like a pressed ceiling, beautifully decorated skirting boards, or a bare wooden floor and rafters can help draw attention to them subtly.

Now, let’s talk about furniture. Your couch and coffee table will naturally be the room’s focal point. Dark or black upholstery works wonders for a couch if the rest of the room is relatively light. It’s also a good idea to bring in deeper shades when selecting your coffee table to make it “pop” against the neutral backdrop. Alternatively, beige cane or wicker furniture creates dimension and layers in a room that could otherwise be flat, and a beige sofa pairs well with walls and flooring in non-neutral colors.

Since beige is so incredibly versatile, it can be confusing to work with if you’re not a decorating aficionado. Fortunately, Michelle Jett – Decorating Den Interiors is here to help! Once you’ve contacted us, your assigned decorator will visit your home to discuss your vision. Then, they’ll start turning your dreams into reality, walking you through every step along the way. Contact us today!

The post Beige Isn’t Boring — Explore Beige Interior Design appeared first on Michelle Jett - Decorating Den Interiors.

Millennial pink and clean cream colors aren’t for everyone. If your tastes are more unconventional and somewhat exotic, consider saying “Yes, chef!” to a dark kitchen. In this article, we’ll explore the basics of designing a dark kitchen and give you some handy tips and tricks to create a space that speaks to you.

Classic Dark Kitchen Colors

Some people may not consider a dark color palette to be particularly fun or exciting, but the truth is that you can do so much with colors at the bottom end of the color spectrum.

Paint it Black

This isn’t just the title of a classic Rolling Stones hit: It’s also excellent decorating advice for a modern kitchen. So naturally, black is a go-to hue when decorating a dark kitchen. It’s incredibly versatile, and you can pair it with almost any other color. Important to note, however, is that unless you’re purchasing Vantablack, no paint or material is truly black, as black is actually the absence of color.

Instead, you’ll find shades like onyx, charcoal, and jet. If any variant of black isn’t quite your speed, try charcoal, lead, or graphite gray. All three will help create a moody kitchen without it being too dark.

These ornate cabinets prove you can’t go wrong with black.

Lighten the Mood With Some Color

Should you oppose an entirely black kitchen, use a darker shade of a cool color. Navy blue or the aptly named midnight blue are well-suited for a more rustic vibe. Alternatively, emerald, dark sea-green, and hunter-green work beautifully to incorporate a touch of nature in your kitchen. Feeling like royalty? A deep purple like aubergine or plum will do the trick in a contemporary kitchen.

This dark blue creates just enough moodiness.

While you have many choices regarding color or lack thereof, it’s a good idea to stick to just one or two across your walls, cabinetry, and islands (think monochrome). You can mix a slightly brighter color with a dark gray or black or use two dark shades of the same color in your palette.

Remember that you can incorporate a touch of lighter color, such as white, almond, or cream, in your color scheme to create a delightfully stark contrast.

Matching Dark Materials

Now that you know what color combinations are most suitable for a dark kitchen, it’s time to implement that by choosing your materials.

Lay the Dark Kitchen Foundations

Light laminate wood or smooth slate tiling is ideal as these materials are easy to clean, which is all-important in a place where spillage is inevitable. Fairer floors are perfect if your walls are dark. Of course, you can go in the opposite direction with a dark floor if you want to use white cabinets and counters.

Concrete also works well as an easily maintained surface and a middle-of-the-road color, and it can add a modern, industrial edge to your kitchen. You can also pick a classic black-and-white checked tile, as this monochromatic pattern will complement the rest of your kitchen setup nicely.

No Backlash from Your Backsplash

Speaking of tiles, let’s discuss a dark kitchen’s backsplash. Stones like marble or granite, bare brick, and wood panels are all suitable to place above your sink and stove. Again, you’ll want a material that’s easy to clean. As with the floors, pick a hue on the opposite end of the color spectrum for your walls to produce a variation that adds depth and interest to your kitchen’s aesthetic.

A light gray and white backsplash pairs beautifully with black cabinets.

Kitchen Cabinets and Countertops

Naturally, your walls make up a fair portion of your kitchen’s color and overall aesthetic. But your cabinets, counters, and islands (if you have them) provide even more real estate for interior design.

Using Cabinets for Color

You likely have more than a handful of kitchen cabinets, from the pantry to storage space for cutlery and crockery. Obviously, the colors and materials you choose for them are of the utmost importance! So, let’s start with your cabinets.

Dark cabinets, especially black cabinets, are your best bet when designing a dark kitchen. You can match your cabinet color to your wall color to create a seamless appearance or use a darker shade of the same color you used on your walls to produce depth.

This second option is beneficial to avoid making the kitchen appear small, as a dark hue is sometimes wont to do. Finally, if you’re feeling adventurous, use a textured glass like frosted or fluted glass to add flair to a monochromatic palette.

Count on Countertops

Although this isn’t a rule set in stone, matching your cabinets with your counters and kitchen island is a good idea, even if that color differs from your walls. That being said, you have some freedom regarding your countertop. In general, it’s safest to play with lighter shades (in addition to your flooring) to create contrast. Ivory or white countertops pair incredibly well with dark wood cabinets.

These white marble countertops create a stark contrast against the dark cabinets.

You have a bunch of options when it comes to material selection. Stones – whether natural or imitation – are not only incredibly aesthetically pleasing but also very easy to clean. A marble countertop balances luxurious elegance with contemporary panache, and you can’t go wrong with a classic granite countertop.

But, if that feels too cold, add some warmth with a light blonde wood like ash, birch, or pine. Again, you can use a synthetic version or the real deal here.

Dark Furniture and Fixtures

You can focus on the finer details with your dark kitchen’s major components done and dusted.

Lift Spirits With Lighting

Although you’re jonesing for a brooding atmosphere, you don’t want to sit in total darkness in a depressing kitchen. That’s where your lighting comes in. Of course, you’ll want to keep your illumination to a minimum, but you still need to see the food and drinks you’re preparing!

Minimalist pendant lighting with naked bulbs adds a touch of modern flair and bite that suits dark design without brightening the kitchen space too much. Alternatively, a white ceiling with flat lights can help brighten a small kitchen and make it appear bigger and airier while keeping the space dim enough to set the right mood.

A Seat at the Table

If you want your kitchen counters or island to double as a tiny dining area, you’ll need some chairs. Like floors and countertops, lighter frames can help create dimension and visual interest in lieu of a rainbow color palette. Seats with metallic finishes are also a great option to spice up a dark kitchen with an Art Deco feel.

Get a Handle on Fittings

Like your seats, resplendent faucets and door handles add much-needed shine and glamor to a dark kitchen, especially if you’ve chosen matte finishes. However, it’s best practice to stick to one color, so choose between brass, copper, or silver and keep that consistent across your handles and spouts.

As you can see, a darker color palette for at least one of your home’s rooms isn’t reserved for goths or punks. Of course, anyone can enjoy a dark kitchen, but if you need a helping hand, you’re in luck! Michelle Jett Decorating Den Interiors boasts decorators with years of expertise in their field.

Contact us, and your assigned decorator will give you a call to kick-start your decorating journey. We’ll visit you to get an idea of your space, and then we’ll get to work on designing a custom plan. The real work will begin once you’re both happy with all the nitty-gritty details. And we’ll keep you updated and answer any questions you may have at every stage. Let’s work together to make your dream kitchen a reality!

The post Dark Kitchen Ideas to Add Depth to Your Home appeared first on Michelle Jett - Decorating Den Interiors.

We recommend contacting Michelle Jett – Decorating Den Interiors, before starting. We can help you make the best decision based on your personality and your vision for the space. There’s nothing worse than covering your walls and then deciding it was just wrong!

Consider these color suggestions when deciding on wall-coverings for your dining room:

Truffle brown

If you’re working with a variety of wooden furniture in the dining room, This Old House recommends truffle brown to harmonize the space.

Neutral gray

A semi-deep shade of gray makes the perfect canvas for the room – you can decorate it with vibrant accessories to create an abstract masterpiece out of the dining area. Gray remains the new neutral and the “in” backdrop color.

Soft yellow

Soft shades of yellow have a way of creating a warm and inviting living space. Dining room walls in this hue make for an elegant and welcoming touch.

Apple green

Crisp, soft green hints at subtle energy, bringing life to a once-dull room without going overboard.

Now, consider the ones you should be avoiding as well:

Most shades of blue

According to Color Matters, shades of blue can suppress your appetite – which isn’t an ideal feeling to collect in a room built for dining.

Pastel pink

You may see some vintage inspiration coming back into the kitchen with shades of pink, but keep that from spilling over into the dining area. Even a subdued pink is a bold statement and tends to create an uninviting space. 

Orange popsicle

Think bright oranges, like a popsicle or freshly-carved jack-o-lantern. Interior designer Heather Humphrey told House Beautiful that this shade tends to evoke the “wow” factor but in an unappealing way.

Poppy red

Bright red shades are known as anger-inducing colors. It creates a high-alert environment, so keep this shade away from where you’ll host inviting family and friend get-togethers.

Now that you have a selection of shades and hues to choose from, it’s time to get in touch with us! We will come to your home for a free consultation to assess your dining room and offer decorating insight and expertise based on your space. With this assistance, you can choose the perfect wallcovering and create a gathering space you and your guests will love spending time in.

Now’s the perfect time to make some renovations. So don’t hesitate to contact one of our excellent personal decorators today!

The post Colors to Use and Avoid When Decorating the Dining Room appeared first on Michelle Jett - Decorating Den Interiors.

Neutral paint colors are some of the most versatile in the color palette. They work well together, and they work with just about anything else.

That’s why using them to paint a whole room, or even an entire home, is so easy. It’s also why you can choose from a variety of different neutrals that all look great together, no matter what style you prefer.

Excited to see what’s possible? Continue reading to learn more about neutral color palettes and the benefits they can bring to your home.

What is a neutral color palette?

A neutral color palette is any group of colors that have been muted or desaturated. Quite the opposite of being bold, they’re neutral because they don’t have an intense hue. Instead, they’re typically combined to create a color combination that looks cohesive with a variety of patterns and textures.

Although the most popular shades are pure neutral colors — black, white, brown, and gray — your color palette isn’t limited to these.

You can create a neutral look with many different colors as long as they all share the same undertone. Here are three additional variations:

• Near-neutrals: The result of mixing a primary color with a pure neutral. This process creates a shade with low saturation levels, for example, off-white.
• Warm neutrals: Created by mixing warm primary colors, such as yellow or red, with pure neutrals to achieve a warm palette but not overly vibrant. Popular paint colors in this category include tan and ivory.
• Cool neutrals: These come from mixing cool-toned primary colors, such as blue or green, with pure neutrals to create shades such as taupe, cool white, or deep charcoal blue.

The key to identifying what colors belong in each category is to pay attention to the undertones that come through each shade. This will also help you find other colors, accessories, and decor pieces that complement your palette.

If you follow a neutral color scheme, you can create various looks, from contemporary to classic, by combining them with brighter-toned accessories and decor or customizing an entire paint palette that you can use throughout your home.

So, don’t be afraid to experiment! That way, you’ll know which combinations suit your style and space best.

Benefits of following a neutral color palette

A neutral color palette can help you create a cohesive look that’s easy to maintain. It also allows you to add pops of color in other areas like artwork, accessories, and even furniture fabrics — making it easier to change things up as needed.

If you’re indecisive about what colors go together, a neutral color scheme is a great place to start; here are five reasons why:

1.They create a calm and tranquil atmosphere

When choosing a color palette, it’s essential to consider what effect you want your home to have on people.

A peaceful environment is always a welcome change from the hustle and bustle — especially if you’re trying to create a relaxing and inviting space.

Enter neutral paint shades, which can be used in any room of your house to create a calm and tranquil atmosphere. That’s because they don’t compete with each other or the room’s other features, making it easier on the eye.

Cool neutrals such as light blue or gray are mainly known for creating a soothing effect. However, you can also consider a pale pink or lavender if those fit your style more.

2.They allow you to play with colors in the decor

If you’re a fan of color, then you’ll love how neutral colors can help you play with decor. Since they have such a lighthearted feel, it’s easy to incorporate eye-catching accessories like bright rugs, throw pillows, and accent chairs into your home.

Using a neutral palette base allows you to make unique pieces stand out in your space without taking away from the overall feeling of tranquility that a neutral palette provides. But, of course, your hardest decision will be deciding which piece deserves the spotlight!

Try combining neutral paint colors with metallic shades such as gold and silver, which adds a modern touch that will help balance out the space and showcase the personality of your rooms.

3.They serve as a blank canvas for creativity

Neutrals are a great way to start your decorating journey. They’re easy to work with and can be mixed and matched with other colors and patterns to create a beautiful space that’s all your own.

As the seasons pass or your tastes change, you can switch out the accessories for new ones and make your room feel brand new again.

That’s why you shouldn’t think of neutrals as dull or lifeless — instead, think of them as a blank canvas that can be customized to your style.

4.They brighten up your space

In the world of interior design, light is a vital element. And while fixtures are beautiful and can be a great addition to your home, they’re not always enough.

If you want to brighten up a room and make it feel more spacious, consider adding some neutral paint colors to your walls. Lighting sources near neutrals such as off-white or cream is excellent because they reflect light from outside sources and bounce it throughout your home.

5.They provide you with flexibility in design

When you follow a neutral color palette, you give yourself the flexibility to change your mind. You’re not stuck with a color scheme that you can’t easily alter, and you can experiment with different styles and trends as they come along through statement pieces and accessories.

Additionally, you can move furniture around your home without worrying if it only matches one room. For example, if your family grows, you can move the living room sofa into your bedroom or office, as the neutral paint and drapery won’t clash.

Following a neutral color palette may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about decorating your home, but when you consider the many benefits of this approach, it’s easy to see why it’s so popular!

Reach out to Michelle Jett – Decorating Den Interiors for neutral color palette needs

Hopefully, we’ve convinced you that neutrals are more than just beige. But what makes neutral colors so unique?

They can adapt to any style or budget, and their versatility and longevity. Neutral colors are timeless because they work well in any room of your house, from the kitchen and bathroom to the bedroom and living room.

These days, it’s all about creating a space that’s uniquely yours — and we want to help you do just that!

When you book a consultation with us, one of our designers will work with you to create a custom neutral color palette for your home. We’ll help you select colors and materials that complement your style and budget, then bring it all together into a cohesive design that’s sure to impress! Let’s get started today.

The post The Benefits of Following a Neutral Color Palette appeared first on Michelle Jett - Decorating Den Interiors.

There is increasing emphasis on how interior decorating affects mental health, and color plays an essential role. Color moves us. Color can set a mood and create a conversation. The website colorpsychology.org says, “It can excite or soothe your mood, raise or lower your blood pressure, and even whet your appetite! Whether innate or learned, it’s undeniable that color strongly impacts how we go about our lives.”

The 2023 color palettes are intended to emphasize “what is ours, who we are,” said Sue Wadden, Sherwin-Willams director of color marketing. “The four new palettes remind us of the connection to the earth beneath our feet, the enduring beauty of ancient practices, the warmth of genuine compassion, and the daily joys that make our world so wonderful.

The first palette introduced is called Biome—described as helping us “seek perfect balance with the existing, ever-changing ecosystem.” As a result, we can “preserve peace in an atmosphere of delicate mushroom taupe, lichen gray, rich earth tones, and the colors of our sky’s cloud canopy.”

Biome’s colors are Urbane Bronze, Shiitake, Threshold Taupe, Antler Velvet, Redwood Medium Brown, Mount Etna, White Resin, Evergreen Fog, Hamburg Gray, and Silvermist.

The Lore palette is inspired by “the call to create that is woven into the fiber of our being, present in the very air we breathe, binding us together in a community of makers that spans centuries and crosses cultures.” These colors urge us to “reconnect with an intricate mix of ancient reds, powdery pastels, and a bevy of bejeweled tones—and embrace the transformative power of passionate creativity.”

Lore’s colors are Wallflower, Studio Mauve, Carnelian, Toile Red, Serape, Dhurrie Beige, Pediment, Mineral Gray, Blue Peacock, and Nugget.

The theme of Nexus is “our communal well-being.” These colors remind us of “a quiet place of healing, a realm where the energy we give is returned to us tenfold, where the warmth of loving kindness reminds us of what it feels like to come home.”

The colors of Nexus “enkindle a sense of support and serenity with a potter’s palette of natural clays and sunbaked desert sands.” Lei Flower, Reddened Earth, Redend Point, Likeable Sand, Kestrel White, Foothills, Chatura Gray, Cool Beige, Malted Milk, and Emerging Taupe.

The Origin palette is about “mapping our inner world.” The SW color team suggests that “to chart a path through the wild and wonderful landscape of our lives, we begin within. By layering our fondest memories and future hopes, we created vibrancy and joy in the present moment.”

Recharge with Origin’s colors that keep making a comeback—free-spirited brights, magnetic deeps, and a whisper of restful neutrals. Try Fabulous Grape, Peppery, Goldfish, Chartreuse, Kale Green, Pure White, Skyline Steel, Homestead Brown, Black Magic, and Indigo.

Are you ready to try some new color combinations in one of your rooms? Contact us today.

The post New Color Ideas for 2023 appeared first on Michelle Jett - Decorating Den Interiors.

Although not every color will be your favorite, and you won’t be able to add each of these shades to your home’s palette, it’s a good idea to know which shades will be frequently used in 2023. Let’s take a peek at some of next year’s colors.

2023 Colors

The colors that are predicted to fill the lives of people all over the country next year are warm, vibrant, and heavily inspired by nature. Here are some of the colors to keep on your radar for integrating into your home design:

Viva Magenta by Pantone

The announcement of Pantone’s color of the year is highly anticipated each December. Pantone sets the standard of color matching universally so when you need to match that favorite vase, the PMS or Pantone Matching System can identify the exact hue. The Pantone color of the year influences all things design, including home decor. Pantone describes this years’ color as a “powerful, electrifying, and animated” red. A shade this bold is typically not seen as an accent wall but an accent piece can really add a pop to a room that just needs a little something.

Vining Ivy by Glidden

Greens and blues grew in popularity throughout this year, and the trend will continue into 2023. Vining Ivy is a lighter, muted aqua tone and draws inspiration from nature while adding a calming effect. This shade would serve well as an accent color for a living room or dining room and would also be beautiful if incorporated in a focal piece of furniture, bedding, or wall art.

Redend Point by Sherwin-Williams

With warmth and comfort being the central design theme for the upcoming months, Redend Point fits the bill. This hue is a blend of blush and beige with red undertones — a more Earthy version of the pinks you might have seen in the past. Sherwin-Williams brings an air of sophistication and class with their 2023 color choice. Put this inviting color in a foyer, entryway, or living room to welcome guests into your home, or create the perfect cozy bedroom by enveloping your space with accents of this cheery tint.

Blank Canvas by Behr

The name speaks for itself. Not just another neutral, off-white shade, this one serves as an excellent base to build upon for your ‘blank canvas’ room. Pegged as the most versatile of their white offerings, Behr Global Chief Marketing Officer, Jodi Allen calls this, “the perfect shade of white for any project.” (https://www.marthastewart.com/8313730/behr-color-of-the-year-2023-blank-canvas) Guaranteed to harmonize with any hue from bold and deep to bright and cheery. Utilize this color to bring a soft, calming effect to every room in your home.

Alizarin by Graham & Brown

Keeping in line with exuberant warm shades is Graham & Brown’s color prediction, Alizarin. A deep and moody auburn shade that can be incorporated in any room of your home. With this color being brighter and a stand-out choice for your home’s interior, it’s the perfect solution for extra charm. Add this color to your space in the form of curtains, throw pillows, table runners or even a plush chair in your living room like below.

Raspberry Blush by Benjamin Moore

If your room is vying for more attention and zest, Raspberry Blush by Benjamin Moore is the answer. The red-orange color can energize a more plain or minimalist space by adding pops of lively tints. With this color being as bright as it is, be careful not to overdo it. Incorporate this shade in decor pieces and accent furniture like the side chair, rug and artwork in the example below. You can also tone down the space by balancing it with beige, whites, creams or even Behr’s “Blank Canvas” as mentioned above.

Other colors may be prevalent in the new year, but knowing the color direction that the design industry is headed is helpful for your own personal design choices. Take a look at these colors and truly decide if they’re shades that you’d like to have in your home. If so, let’s take a look at how to seamlessly introduce them.

How to Use Popular Colors

Whether you want to do a quick update to your design or completely transform your home, it can be fun to make adjustments to your room’s style. The problem is, how do you take the popular colors of the previous years, like grays and neutral tones, and add warmth? Here are some quick tips to get you started:

• Switch out your old comforter for a new one in shades of blush or green.
• Swap out white throw pillows for bright raspberry red or mossy green ones.
• Hang up new window treatments that can be the focal point of your room.
• Create a gallery wall with all the colors of 2023.
• Take some of your gray decor pieces and opt for a more bold and colorful option instead.

Michelle Jett Decorating Den Interiors Can Help

It’s not easy to seamlessly transition your home’s design with updated colors and decorations. Good thing our personal decorators understand color psychology — the study of human behavior in response to various hues — and can help you make your space an inviting haven for your specific family and friends.

Get in contact with our team today and we will work with you to get your house new year ready. We can’t wait to create your dream home!

The post Colors of 2023: How to Incorporate Them Into Your Home appeared first on Michelle Jett - Decorating Den Interiors.