Blues without the Blues

Well, it’s that time of year already again! The sun is about to go into hibernation (at least in the Pacific Northwest, that is)! But, there are ways you can make your interior still feel luxurious even in the darker months with an unassuming color- blue. Here are ways in which you can implement blues into your interiors without feeling blue.

Interior designers love working with colors that are trendy in order to create unique and stylish spaces that are beautiful. One of the most popular colors that designers are using right now is blue, so incorporating various shades of this hue into your home will bring a current vibe into it and psychologically impact qualities that are associated with blue. If you want to create a soothing environment that will stimulate your mind and improve your ability to think clearly, blue has been scientifically proven to put your mind at ease.

Mix and Match Blue Hues

Blue can be wither an intense color, or somewhat neutral when used throughout various spaces, so it is important to consider the size of your space before choosing blue as the main color. Mixing varying shades of blue is a gorgeous way to not only break up the monotony of a using one hue of blue, but also creates a more calming space. You can also use several patterns in your blue furniture, accents, and wallpaper so that you can provide enough contrast within a room while still keeping the blue color the focal point.

Use Dark Blue with Caution

Darker shades of blue are certainly rich and sophisticated, but they need to be used correctly. Too much dark blue in a room can make it feel colder and smaller than it actually is. Gold, yellow, and other bright hues pair perfectly with darker blues, so add these too offset the cool tone with furniture, accessories, window treatments, lighting. This is how you can truly bring out a darker blue hue in a classic way.

Also, if you are going to have darker blue walls, you may want to contrast them with light furniture or accessories. In the same way, if you have a lot of blue furniture in a room, try to add accessories that are paler or cream colored to break the darkness up while still maintaining the calming vibe.

If you would like to go in a different direction, you can also use dark brown wood to ground blue colors throughout a space. Just think of the color wheel- the opposite of blue is orange (it’s complement).

Ultra Violet: 2018 Pantone Color of the Year

Rich and pensive, Ultra Violet is reminiscent of existential energy, the mystery of what the future holds, and the new discoveries of the past and present. It reminds us of the night sky, dark but endless, full of mystery.

Why Pantone Chose this Color

With everything happening in our world at the present moment, Pantone color researchers thought it necessary to remind ourselves of our sheer presence on earth and the vast endlessness of our atmosphere. Ultra Violet is cosmic, rich, and timeless.

Our Favorite Ultra Voilet Uses in Interior Design

1. Using rich purples make a bold statement as an accent. This gorgeous bedding truly brings forth a timeless, rich look to this elegant bedroom. Rich purples tend to pop when placed in an otherwise neutral color scheme. 

2. Even the tiniest purple accents in a space can make a very bold statement. This otherwise very white bathroom stands out with just the pop of color of its hand towel. 

3. Ultra Voilet in Commercial Design. There's no doubt the guests who visit this elegant restaurant will never forget the gorgeous, sophisticated upholstery on the dining chairs. What a statement!

Ultra Violet in Fashion

Reminiscent of the Victorian Era followed by the 1920's rich purples always manage to make a fashion comeback. We are seeing this beautiful hue in every aspect of the runway, from hair color to couture. The beauty of this otherwise considered feminine color is that it truly works for both genders and truly makes a haute statement!

ELLE Decor: What's Trending for Fall 2017

What we're seeing a lot of for fall design trends consists of organic decor, eclectic old timey products, and vibrant color schemes. 2016's gray palettes are starting to fade away (no pun intended) as more saturated colors are being seen on the forefront.  According to ELLE Decor, warmer color palettes are becoming very popular.

Beautiful bright green and blue color schemes are making their comeback, and we're seeing boldly painted furnishings, wall colors and decor that really make a statement coming to fruition on the design front. One timeless way into which you can implement a timeless look is through collecting old novels and stacking them under your favorite decor pieces to create height and weight.

A fun way to jump into fall trends is by implementing old fashioned pieces into your space. We love scouring antique stores and rummage sales to find the perfect piece for a focal point. This old wall sconce is a gorgeous piece that would look beautiful in any room in the home. 

Warmer colored metallic pieces are all the rage in the design world this year. Bronzes, brass and golds are being seen in both designer commercial and residential spaces. You can implement this look through the use of throw pillows, accessories, and lighting. 

Why Handmade Designs Are the Bee's Knees

There's nothing quite like having company over and receiving compliments on a unique decor item you have in your home. Owning a piece of handmade craftsmanship is like owning someone's true passion and skill. Being the only one in the world with their unique design has its specialness, too. 

It's all the rage at Highpoint this year to own live edge tables and other furnishings reminiscent of their prior organic state, and we can see why. These beautiful unique pieces are not only a conversation piece, they are elegant, timeless, and well, natural.  Finding a local artisan who can design these beautiful products isn't always easy; you can however, find unique pieces that aren't custom made for your space all over online. Gotta thank technology!

There are unique pieces like the ones pictured above that are both elegant and timeless and won't break the bank . You can find crafts like these at your local art fairs and farmers markets. Etsy is a great place to find unique artisan pieces as well.

Living in the Pacific Northwest allows us to find pieces of artisan work reminiscent of our natural surroundings. Driftwood frames like the one pictured above are a beautiful beachy way to bring the outdoors in.

Having a unique piece of handmade craftsmanship is not only a special way to add a focal point to your space, it helps support your local craftsmen as well!

Simple, Elegant Flower Arrangements

There is something about having fresh flowers within our space that makes us feel happy. Psychological studies have shown that having bright foliage within your space reduces stress and brings forth a sense of peace in our minds. Here are some simple flower arrangements that you can create for your space!

Compact and Neutral

Light green and peach hues adorn this arrangement giving the perfect, beautiful cohesiveness to it.

Simple & Timeless

In floral arrangements, we are seeing a theme of less is more. There is something so timeless and elegant about a simple stemmed flower in a tiny vase.

Classic Daffodils

Bring in freshness and cheer with this classic look. A gorgeous mason jar mug gives it a shabby chic appeal.

Rustic Garden

Give off the look of clipping in the garden with an old bucket and just a couple of flowers. So simple, yet so chic.

Hydrangeas Forever

Hydrangeas for forever be seen as one of the most classic flowers in design. There is something so timeless about their appeal and they dry beautifully!

Color Trends of 2017- What's Haute

Vibrant blues and warm colors are what's trending in the design world, according to ELLE Decor and we can see why. The more saturated a paint color is with white trim or details, the more it seems to pop and the more intense of a focal point it creates.

As you can see in the above interior, a vibrant complementary color scheme really makes a statement that is both elegant, sophisticated and timeless.  We're seeing brass and gold as accessories make their return to the design front, and they pair beautifully with the color schemes that are trending.

Warmer color palettes consisting of reds, browns and oranges are making their comeback as well. While the common gray interior is still very popular, we are seeing the design world take a turn into warmer schematics and colors.

Vibrant blues and greens reminiscent of color palettes in the 1930s are debuting on the design front. Peacock color schemes are trending and make a gorgeous statement in all types of interiors. 

We've Got the Blues! Our Favorite Blue Interiors

Is it accurate to say that you are searching for another design for your home, and you truly adore the blue color? Fortunately we live in a world with endless options, but here are our favorites! You can integrate Blues into any interior, but the use of blue paint is another story!

If your desire is to have your living room to feel welcoming and full of life, then a highly saturated, vibrant blue would be a great choice for you. It will bring a sense of calmness to your space, while being intense enough to be a conversation piece.

If blue is your absolute favorite, you should go all out.  This type of blue cabinetry gives off a happy, light-hearted vibe. We are seeing a lot of split colored cabinetry in design now- a key piece of advice: keep the darker color on the bottom. This will make your kitchen feel larger!

Here’s another cutting edge kitchen- this one featuring all blue cabinetry.  The use of a warm wood like shown, balances the coolness of the blue, giving this kitchen a welcoming, warm vibe.

This charming restroom is by all accounts intended for a person of sophistication. The clawfoot tub, with its blue color and white legs recreates something reminiscent of the past with a hint of bohemian charm.

Navy blue is as classic as it gets. This rich, sophisticated color will bring a sense of intrigue while evoking a sense of peace and richness. The use of a high gloss paint creates a reflective surface that also makes the room appear larger.

If you are looking to add a blue hue to your space, always consider your environment. Rooms in climates that don’t receive a lot of sunlight can look depressed and unwelcoming if there is too much blue. Stick with blue colors that aren’t too warm, however; these can be over-stimulating and create a sense of anxiety.

It's in the Little Things: Tiny Houses!

The tiny house movement has taken the world by storm in the past couple of years, and there’s a reason for it. The architects and builders of the modern day tiny house have figured out ways in which to implement all of the bells and whistles of today’s designs while maintaining the charm and efficiency of living small. We have done our research, and here are our favorite tiny houses– both old and new.

It’s in the Little Things: Our Favorite Tiny Houses

1. This gorgeous Southern style tiny house was designed and built by Palm Harbor Homes. Since the beginning of the recent tiny house movement, builders have taken the simple streamlined “boxes,” and turned them into elegant, charming floor plans with upscale and quality features.

2. Who says you can’t have a gorgeous tudor home in a beautiful garden setting? This home has all of the bells and whistles, while maintaining the classic look and feel of a tudor style home. This would make the perfect back yard stay-cation or mother-in-law casita.

3. You are never too old to have a tree house. This beautiful home features an open floor plan, bright and airy color scheme and a beautiful park like setting. The lower patio area is perfect for barbecues, reading a book, and enjoying the fresh air of the outdoors. The interior features a small kitchenette, a living room and a lofted bedroom.

4. Contemporary chic describes this one. This house has the perfect combination of functionality and fun. The main living areas and master bedroom breath in plenty of light with this open space concept. Each and every room and closet is efficient enough to allow for an open, airy, spacious feel.

Timeless Master Hallway

The master hallway provides the en-suite feel as it is adjacent to the master bathroom, bedroom and closet. A new silver chest, seafoam green cut glass lamps and a custom mirror complements the décor in all the other rooms to make this a spectacular master suite.

Trend: Open Glass Shower

 

Showers in the past used to be comprised of just a shower head inside of an existing bath tub enclosure and that was it. Today, showers have come a long way, and they are separated from the bathtub to give more space, versatility and visual aesthetics for your bathroom.

Open showers are becoming more popular in bathrooms that need to be accessible for all and they open up a small space to appear larger.
The no barrier appeal of open showers opens up your bathroom and can give visual views of expansive vistas and views outside of a window beyond. This modern touch gives the feel of a luxury spa or high end hotel that home owners enjoy.

Are you ready for a an updated bathroom? Call Kathy at Authentic Home to set up  your appointment today!

2016 Design Trends!

 Images Source: Pexels

As our lives become fast paced with hectic schedules, at the end of the day, we would like to relax at home in a serene and calming atmosphere akin to a sanctuary. In the year 2016, interior design experts have concluded that interior design trends are likely to be characterized by warm room colors, stylish house fixtures and furniture and use of texture here and there.

Some of the 2016 current trends in Interior Design include the following:

 Heated house entry floors
Bathrooms are the first thing that comes to mind when heated floors is the subject. By applying this technology onto the floor of entryways, it becomes even more suitable especially during the winter where an inviting warm indoors will provide a solace away from the freezing outdoors.

Marble touches
Marble has become one of the most popular materials that are used in interior design. Marble is increasingly being used to add some luxurious feel on household’s objects like candleholders, planters, coasters and clocks.

Stylish bathroom mirrors
Bathroom mirrors need not to be in that traditional and ever boring rectangular shape. Different shapes and styles have been adopted to transform these pieces into design statements that can add some oomph to an often overlooked space like the bathroom.

 Kitchens mixed materials
Our beloved kitchens are also moving away from the often traditional polished look to a more eclectic vibe. Instead of using one or two materials, homeowners are incorporating different design styles to create more personalized spaces in the kitchen.

Warm metals
Brass, copper and gold have continued to dominate inside kitchens and bathrooms. Such metals when paired with natural and raw materials like wood and marble create a good combination when they are used in interior spaces.

Black stainless steel
Instead of the commonplace shiny silver electrical house appliances, the trend of the moment is the use of black stainless steel to make these gadgets.

Rough touches
The adding of some rough texture on an otherwise conservative object has the potential to bring out an unexpected intrigue and touch to the senses. The use of wallpapers that bring out a rustic and aging look has also been popular this year.

Floral prints
Interior designers have predicted an even growing popularity with floral fabrics used on furniture like sofas and on curtains.
With the aforementioned designing styles and many others that have been used with a lot of great results, it remains to be seen what more will be in the offing as far as interior designing is concerned.

Eclectic Decor- Get the Look!

 Images Source: Pexels

We’re seeing it everywhere- eclectic design is the bee’s knees in 2016! A mix-match of randomness that somehow seems to all pull together. Ever wondered how designers can take a variety of seemingly unrelated items and make them work together in a beautiful yet cohesive way? Well, here’s how!

Eclectic Decor- Get the Look!

1. Stick with a color palette. It’s true! If you have a variety of decor that is completely unrelated, you can get a designer look by keeping them within the same general color palette. Color is one of the easiest ways to pull an otherwise mismatched space together.

2. Group like items together.  It’s a “psychological thing.” Our minds desire to see like things placed together. When several similar items are placed in a grouping like the sconces, books and pillows in this room, our minds categorize them, making it appear less busy. If you have a lot of something, display it together! This will surprisingly make your space feel less cluttered, and well, eclectic.

3. Be Selective. When purchasing decor for your space, choose items that are unique- this will truly give you that eclectic look.

4. Let the architecture do the work. Whether you live in a rustic old or streamlined modern building, the key is to let the beauty of the architecture stand out. Bring in key pieces that mean something to you. Keep a neutral palette. Mix old and new, and let the sunlight in! This will naturally highlight the beauty of your space.

Looking for a design consultation? Contact Kathy Banak today!

Bringing the Outdoors In: Organic Touches

 

I am sure you have experienced a time when you walked into a space and thought to yourself, “I am not sure what it is, but this space just feels fresh and organic.” Well, maybe not in those words, but you get my drift. Sometimes it is just the little things that make a world of difference in a space; the small touches that pull it all together. Many times, these details can be found on your evening walk, or better yet, visit to a local beach or park.

Bringing the Outdoors In: 6 Small Organic Touches that Make a Difference

1.Eucalyptus. This beautifully scented plant grows naturally in most regions. Many people use it for its aromatherapy healing properties, but it also is a beautiful soft green color that doesn’t fade as it dries. The beauty of this plant is that its versatility. Because it grows in long, bendable stalks, you can make wreaths, table runners, and candle holders (pictured below) easily for an elegant touch.

2. Branches. You see branches used in designer showrooms all the time. Reminiscent of a simpler time, branches can really bring a touch of sophistication to any space. I often find myself walking through my neighborhood, thinking, “wow, those branches would make the perfect accent piece!”

3.Wheat. Neutral in color, wheat adds a bit of texture and country to an interior space. It is plentiful- you can find it on a farm road growing abundantly. Perfectly groomed wheat arrangements are all the rage in the design world. Simply bunch together the perfect wheat stalks, tie with twine, and cut the bottom off in one clean swipe. The arrangement should be able to stand on its own.

4. Rocks & Stones. We all enjoy a day at the beach or the mountains. We tend to collect shells, or stones only to find ourselves with a pocket full of them when we get home, and no where to put them. Next time you’re out in the sunshine, seek out treasures that you can use in your decor. Large white stones work beautifully as bookends as pictured here.

5.Rustic Pieces of Wood. Oftentimes you will come across old, worn out pieces of painted or not painted wood. You may think nothing of it, but these finds are so unique, they are sure to make a stunning conversation piece within your home.  Pictured here, simple hooks and mason jars complete the look for beautiful candle wall sconces.

6.Hydrangeas. These beautiful flowers have been popular since the beginning of time. The pale pastel colors they take on as they dry out add a softness and femininity to a space like no other flower. Hydrangeas grow abundantly in the Pacific Northwest. You can enjoy them while they’re fresh and vibrant in color, then hang them up to dry and enjoy them for years to come..

April Color of the Month – Light Green

The weather is definitely starting to feel like Spring! The rains having been bringing in new fresh grass and flowers. That is why we think this Light Green is the perfect color for April. Bring the beauty of the outdoor inside as we prepare for the wonderful nature Spring will bring to us!

In the bedroom or in the living room, Light Green looks beautiful wherever you want to paint or accessorize!

Image Source: Pexels

Choose one of Authentic Home COLOR Paint for your next project. Contact Kathy for help to choose your perfect color or to order Authentic Home COLOR Paint today!

Brown-November Paint Color of the Month

 

The world of interior design is filled with lots of colors trends that change every year but there is always at least one color that fits the season. Brown is a color I most associate with November because it gives an excellent warming and cozy effect as the weather is definitely colder.

(Images Source: Pexels)

Here at Authentic Home we are not afraid to put brown in any room as we have painted living rooms, bedrooms, bathroom, kitchens and entry ways in brown shades. Perhaps that is why we have so many different shades of brown. With our 12 shades of brown you will find the best one for any project in your home.

Brown is the color equivalent to a warm hug, it’s inviting and welcome in every kind of room, from modern to the most traditional.

Brown in the bedroom creates a warm and cozy sleeping space.

Brown is also a great earthy color to paint your dining room.

And of course, it’s a soothing color to paint a bathroom, especially if you have a soaking tub to relax!

Contact Kathy Banak for your color consultation and let her pick out the best brown colors for your Authentic Home!

Could A Can Of Paint Save Your Relationship?

Another question to ask is “Who in the relationship is more afraid of color”? “Who in the relationship is afraid of change”? “Are you both ready for a transformation of your homes aesthetics and yourselves”? These answers will help uncover some blocks to creating your home of your dreams, your own Authentic Home.

5 Easy Steps To Selecting The Right Paint Colors For Your Home

After a decade of creating custom paint color palettes for clients, my answer to this question is yes! Selecting the right paint color for your home is often an overwhelming experience and then add in a couples differences of how they want a particular room or an entire home to look and feel. Finding the balance between the masculine and feminine when it comes to paint colors is often a give and take process just like any relationship. I have experienced all types of people living in a variety of homes and have witnessed a range of frustration and anxiety that often comes with selecting the right paint colors.

From the novice or “DYI” homeowner to the busy mom who is passionate about home decor, everyone wants to find a paint color they love and that works in their space. Yet there are so many paint color choices available that it is overwhelming and a frustrating process.

My goal is to help people overcome the obstacles that often times takes over when selecting paint colors. I’ve created the Authentic Home COLOR Paint tm line that is minimal paint color palette consisting of 75 colors. I’ve arranged my colors into 5 “mood” palettes for easy selection and arranging. Since color evokes moods and feelings I thought it makes sense to have a starting paint of the 5 mood palettes each consisting of just 15 colors per palette. Viewing 15 compatible paint colors is not as overwhelming as looking through a fan deck of 3,000 paint chips as your eye can experience each of the 15 colors since they all are of similar color tones.

1.  Feel First

Determine how you want to feel in your space first. This will help you stay focused on your overall look of the space you are about to paint. Review the Authentic Home COLOR Paint “mood” palettes.

2.  Review your home’s existing elements

It is important to understand your homes natural flow, or lack thereof, when trying to create a cohesive look and feel. Being aware of the architectural elements that you want emphasize or detract from is important and needs to be taken into consideration.

Unless you are remodeling and selecting new cabinetry, flooring and countertops, you most likely need to work with these existing elements and need to consider the undertone colors of each. Evaluate the undertone colors of each element for a guide in selecting the right paint color that will enhance all of these elements and not detract from them. A considerable part of any home remodeling budget is taken up with purchases of cabinetry, flooring and countertop materials so it is important to bring these elements to life and a cost effective way to do this is with the right paint color.

Another question to ask is “Who in the relationship is more afraid of color”? “Who in the relationship is afraid of change?”  “Are you both ready for a transformation of your homes aesthetics and yourselves?” These answers will help uncover some blocks to creating your home of your dreams, your own Authentic Home.

For example if you have light colored oak cabinets in your kitchen it would not work to have a light yellow paint color on the wall. The wall color needs to emphasize the cabinet color. So in the light oak cabinet’s example imagine the paint color being a warm rust or brown color that would emphasize the oak knots in the wood grain and highlight the yellow cabinet color. And the same thing holds true for your flooring whether it is carpeting or hardwoods and for your countertops whether it is granite or Corian.

Most people cannot replace all of their furnishings when doing a remodel or painting project. So it is important to understand the colors in your furnishings fabrics as well as colors of your accessories. Is your sofa a neutral grey color that can be highlighted with a cool blue paint color on the walls? Can you pull out a Persimmon color in an antique art piece and paint the wall the Persimmon color so the entire wall is “a work of art”? Closely evaluate all of your fabrics and accessories colors that will remain in the room you are about to paint.

3. Select a foundation color

I like to use the analogy of selecting paint colors with women selecting a foundation makeup for their skin type. You need to find the right color that works with your skin type and it’s the same thing with selecting the right foundation paint color for your home.

I consider the foundation paint color the color that is going to move us from room to room so to create a nice flow throughout your home. A trick I like to use with clients is to have them stand at the front door and pretend they are a guest in their own home. Close your eyes for 10 seconds and then open your eyes. What do you see? This little trick with help you get in touch with what your guests see as they enter you home. Do you see a closet door and should we bring attention to that closet door with a paint color? Or does your eye go directly from the front door, through the living room, through the kitchen and straight out the kitchen window? If so how can paint color help us detract this energy to stay in each space? It is best to select a neutral foundation color that will move you from space to space which often times are the hallways and that work with your existing floor color. And neutrals don’t just have to be taupe color. A warm green or soft blue can also be neutral foundation color.

4. Select paint colors of similar undertones

Once you have the foundation paint color decided, you can then select each room paint color that is of similar undertone. A colors undertone is the colorant that is predominate. For example the color green can have a blue undertone, which would give a cooler effect to the room, or a yellow undertone, which would give a warmer effect to the room. Having the same undertone of colors throughout your home creates an even flow to each space and is very appealing to the eye.
I also feel that it is important to have paint colors of similar shades or tones throughout a home. We have all been in people’s homes where the paint colors didn’t make any sense and the bold bright colors are right next to softer tones or bright whites, Yikes! Choose colors of similar shades or tones for a consistent pleasing flow.

5. Sample the paint colors in your own home

Often times when you are ready to select paint colors, you are looking at small paint chips or a fan deck at a paint or big box store. Looking at paint colors in the stores is the first mistake since the lighting is often fluorescent and not the same type of lighting you live with in your own home.

I prefer to use large sample cards painted with each paint color on them. Color is affected by the colors used next to them so when you paint color samples on a wall, the new color will be affected by the existing wall color. Your existing wall paint color can distort the way you see the sample or prevent you from recognizing the new color’s undertones. It’s also easy to make a mistake in value and intensity.

Another reason to adhere paint sample cards is it usually takes 2-3 coats of paint to see the true color of the sample. That creates a paint build-up on the test area, which often remains noticeable after the walls are painted. If you paint sample colors on the walls and do not feather out the edges properly, you may see the paint swatches as relief marks. If the wall is porous, or if you use interior paint samples in a different sheen than your current wall paint, you may see the paint swatches showing through the new paint coat as dull or shiny blotches.

Also make sure you review and sample the paint in your own home, on several different walls & ceiling locations over a period of a number of days. The natural light will shift the paint colors and the experience will be different throughout the day and evening.

The goal is to create a paint color palette to love, to represent your true authentic self and to build upon for all future home décor and remodeling projects. I hope these steps help you in your paint selecting process. Relax and take your time selecting the paint colors that reflect you and your own Authentic Home. Enjoy the process and watch the transformation unfold!