First I would like to congratulate Christine McLacken of East Providence for winning the October 22 drawing!  Christine won a $50.00 gift certificate at Home Goods for signing up by email for ISR's newsletter.  Happy shopping Chris!
I attended a conference in Cleveland last week for the Interior Refiners Network.  Decorators from all over the US and Canada attended.  We had many informative seminars covering many subjects from paint colors, future trends, lighting and photography.  I loved getting together with everyone and sharing ideas and inspiration, which I will share with you in this month's feature article.
Until next time- - Happy Decorating!
Kelly                                               
                                                       Cleveland, Ohio                                 


  

 
One of the most interesting classes I attended was Micro-Macro Trends for the future which related to future trend forecasts including home living, shopping, decorating, etc.

• Generation Now, age group of 13-32, who were raised on technology, wants it done now, and empowered through their sheer numbers. 
  
• Generation X, ages 33-43, are the 'Do-it-Yourself consumer', design savvy, loves to entertain and loves the 'tradition-with a twist' look. 
  
• The Zoomers (I like the name better than Boomers), age 44-62, defying notions of older behavior, beginning to downsize, fuels the luxury market, 'Do it for Me" generation. 
  
• The Prime Timers, age 63+, healthier than prior generations and are changing the rules of retirement, 'redefining aging'.

Homes are becoming more tranquil and peaceful, more people are staying home and entertaining, camel color and maroon are becoming popular.  Purple and pinks are still in but more muted- dusted down.  Roses, large & small patterns, are becoming very fashionable.  Kitchens are becoming warmer with wood, and metals are becoming warmer.  How to do more with less is the new theme, which comes from the environmental 'green' trend movement. 

Can you please explain how do I begin to choose paint colors for my bedroom? 
Diane Hagen
Lincoln, RI
 
Diane,

Since the bed is the largest item, (and usually the focal point of room) I usually start there.  You must first determine if you are keeping your furnishings in the room.
Are you keeping your comforter/bedspread, or are you going to buy new?  You must decide first because that is the best place to start choosing paint colors.  It is easier to try to match the fabric with the million colors of paint out there,than painting and then trying to match up the fabric. 

Hope this helps Diane!
Kelly

 
 
 

Please feel free to email or call me with any decorating questions you may have.

 

The goal of the wall color is finding the most neutral shade that goes with everything you own and love, that also works as a background.


A neutral paint shade does not have to just be white or beige.

Fabric provides the perfect starting point for creating a color scheme.  It's an almost foolproof way to ensure you will love the colors in your room.