A Simplified Approach to Decorating
Many times clients become confused with too many ideas and decisions to change the look of their home. Some get stuck because they do not know where to begin or they cannot imagine what the changes will look like. We have found it helps to simplify the approach and begin with identifying an area of importance in a room and discuss ways to highlight it.
Ways To Highlight A Feature:
Before:
The detailed woodwork of the fireplace goes unnoticed.
After:
The deeper wall color enhances this beautiful architectural feature.
The pattern, color and size of the art hold our attention.
Why the wall color works…
The greater contrast between the white painted woodwork and the deep rust wall color draws us to this beautiful architectural feature of the room. This highlights the size and height of it as well as the intricate detail of the crown molding at the top and the mantle edges. In comparison, the entire fireplace is almost invisible in the before picture. Although this client enjoyed the deeper color and tone of the new paint color, a lighter color would have worked just as well. When woodwork is painted white the contrast of the wall color can be seen with fairly light to mid-tone hues.
Why the art works…
The client admitted the paneled woodwork above the mantle had always been a challenge to decorate as can be seen in the before picture. This triptych of poppies are perfect here because of their size, bright color and busy floral pattern which attracts and keeps our attention.
Keep Your Focus
Limit other distractions.
The after picture shows that the TV is at a lower height than the fireplace and the contrast between the black TV and cabinet against the tan wall color is not as intense. This minimizes the distraction of the TV and sends the message that the fireplace is the most important place to look.
This same approach is used to direct the viewer in the painting to the right.
Notice that although there are light and dark areas of the painting, the whitest white is used where the wave showers the darkest rock in the upper right corner of the painting. This directs us to the focus of the piece.
If you do not know where to begin or want to discuss and validate ideas to update your home, schedule a consultation with Allison today. Her approach will encourage your creative side and enable you to make decisions with confidence!
