Spring Colors . . . And They Aren't Pastels!

I'm happy to say the colors for spring 2019 aren't pastels. Not that pastels aren't lovely. It's just that it's nice to see emboldened palettes for a change. Maybe because the dreary weather has seemed to hang around for so long in the northeast, I'd like spring to be vibrant! Filled with energy! And what better way to do that than colors that aren't shy.

If you decorate with spring flowers as your inspiration, you can't help but be bold. Think the golden yellow of daffodils and forsythia, the deep purple of hyacinths, the reds, oranges, deep pinks, and yellows of tulips. And the trees! Have you ever seen such a riot of colors?

House Beautiful

HGTV

So don't be afraid to go bold. Re-do a room, like this colorful bedroom in shades of lavendar with a touch of yellow and blue. Bring it all together with a gorgeous wallpaper of hummingbirds and you've made a bold, colorful statement.

If an entire room feels like too much, keep it simple with accessories. Change a piece of artwork to something colorful, bring in a pillow or two to complement, and voila - instant spring. Even something simple like flowers and a pretty bottle will do the trick.

Not sure we know what we're talking about? Then neither does the Pantone Fashion Color Trend Report. Look at their "empowering" predictions for spring 2019. Not much shy about those colors!

So think about it . . . maybe it's time to add just a little bit of play - and power - to your home!

Happy Spring!

May Your Holidays Be Merry and Light!

My holidays have become simpler over the years. One reason is because of changes in family life. But a lot of it is choice. I am now much more interested in quieter times with family and friends, more experiences and fewer gifts, and smaller gatherings.

But something I still must have during the holidays are lights. Because it's the darkest time of the year, nothing cheers me up more than lights . . . and lots of them. Candles of all sorts, Christmas tree lights, lights on mantels, and roping . . . they all count.

And the more the merrier. I love, love, love candles. Nothing makes a prettier dining table than lots of candles (particularly tea lights and votives) scattered throughout. And the more creative the holder, the better. Pretty glasses, small crystal bowls, and upside down wine stems all make excellent votive and tea light holders. Add flowers in reflective vases, some greens (maybe with lights), and you won't need the chandelier.

Outside lights in the front of the house are a given. Even though we are on a hill with lots of trees, the lights twinkle through the branches as the cars drive by. And what a treat for guests as they drive up the driveway and the lights come into full view. I also love luminarias lighting the walkway. But again, maybe  not the traditional bags, but something a big different. Lanterns that decorate the porch in the summertime make beautiful luminarias in the wintertime. If there aren't enough for the walkway, then lighting the porch steps works almost as well.

And finally, I love outside lights that are designed to be seen inside. It's usually too cold to enjoy the porch in the winter, but I love lining it with lights that are clearly visible from the inside. And nothing beats lights on the boulders in the back of the yard. Or outlining the birdbath. Seeing these reminders of summer from my kitchen windows always brings a smile.

Which is why when January comes and the tree comes down, as well as the interior decorations, the lights in the backyard stay. I call them winter lights and they have made me happy on the darkest, coldest, snowiest days of January and February.

So this holiday season I am wishing for you a season of light - that lasts all through the winter!

I Need a Paint Color By Tomorrow!

Okay, I may not have had a client need it quite that quickly. But I will say I have had any number of clients who call on Monday and say the painter is coming Thursday and ask my availability. And that's a problem for a number of reasons . . .

Selecting a paint color can be very tricky. First, the sheer number of choices can be overwhelming. When I visit a client I bring fan decks for Classic Colors, Preview Colors, and Aura, along with eight rings of 2x8 Preview samples in a case that looks like this - only much bigger. All in all there are over 3500 colors to choose from. So although my job as a designer is to narrow those choices for my clients (hopefully to three), it might take just a little bit of time.

Once the color selections have been made (always in the room to be painted), clients need to see larger samples in the room - and in different locations. So I order large (8x8) paper samples that then must be put on white poster board so that the white shows around the edges. Those poster board samples are placed around the room in strategic places: the darkest wall, the lightest wall, the place where your eye goes when you enter the room from each entry - and anywhere else that is important. This usually involves placing 5-8 sample boards around the room. Then the clients need to look at the boards at all times of the day and night. Seeing the boards in direct daylight, under artificial light, on cloudy days, and at all times of the day and night (because the lighting will be different). This process generally takes at least several days. And to show why, here are three photos of three different rooms all painted in Benjamin Moore's Powell Buff.

At this point the clients may have a color selected. It's taken a lot longer than a day - or three. But the really good news? The chances are very good it's the right color. And that makes everyone happy. Except perhaps for the painter, who was looking to get paid repainting.

Flea Market Style

I think there used to be a magazine by that name . . . maybe there still is. But rather than sharing the best flea markets or how to spot the best flea market finds, the "style" I'm referring to is the actual shopping style you use . . . the one that makes sure you come home with only those things that are truly important to you.

And of course flea market time is upon us. So (surprise, surprise) I have a few suggestions . . .

First, if at all possible make a list of things you are interested in buying. Want to add to your collection of Fiesta ware? Write down specifics - color, type, style - that will enable you to focus on what you want. And not come home with duplicates or something that just doesn't work.

If it's not a specific item you need, but something of a certain color or shape or size for a specific place, then be open. But if you find something that's close but just not quite right, pass it by. You really won't be happy with it.

Have a budget. Know just how much you are willing to spend. And stick to it!

Don't get distracted by that one shiny object. If you see something you must have, walk away from it. Sure, there's a chance it might not be there when you get back. But step away anyhow and really think about it. Does buying this piece mean your budget is gone? Make sure you're okay with that. Do you have a place for it? If
not, can you find a place for it? Will you use it? (I'm sorry but I'm not sold on the idea that if you love it you'll find a home for it. I've worked in too many homes that have too much stuff or stuff that just doesn't work.) If it's still calling your name, buy it. But still stick with your budget. And make sure you find the perfect place for it in your home.

Oh yeah . . . and just have fun! Enjoy the weather, the food vendors, chatting with the vendors. Flea markets are a fabulous way to spend a summer day!

Winter Decorating - It's All About Texture

Some of the decorating ideas I see post-holiday may look beautiful but seem really impractical. They often involve bringing in orange or another bright color or adding plaid or another pattern that just isn't practical. Most of us already have a decorating scheme in our homes, so adding another color or pattern just doesn't work. And most of us (well, me and my clients) don't want to spend money on winter slipcovers or any other major (expensive) change just for a season.

But that doesn't mean there's nothing you can do to make the dark days of winter a little brighter - and softer. And it all starts with texture. Bring in something soft and cozy,something that makes you forget about the cold dreariness outside. What about a soft shaggy rug in a neutral color? White works just fine as does a soft gray. And it doesn't have to be large, just strategically placed. By the side of the bed, in the bathroom, or layered over another rug works just fine.

If a rug is too much, try a throw. Just make it warm and cuzzy (my mother-in-law's favorite word). Or pillows. For the bed, for the sofa, even for lounging on the floor. Make sure they are an inviting winter-time texture. (You can get these adorable ones at Etsy.) Keep your colors neutral or blend them with your current decorating scheme. As long as the texture says comfort and warmth, your home will feel cozy through the long winter.

Keeping the Holidays Around

Jill Hosking-Cartland of Hosking Interiors (someone I admire both personally and professionally) posted a tip on Facebook that is helping me face my post-holiday doldrums. She suggested keeping up those Christmas decorations if they have more of a winter feel . . . and I think those are words to live by!

Apartment Therapy

The tree should probably go. But that doesn't necessarily mean all the lights. Maybe the lights-on-the-fake-tree is a little old. But what about putting them on bare branches or limbs brought in from the yard? Or lining the doors of the china cabinet to reflect the crystal inside.

And just because the tree is gone doesn't mean greens can't stay. Wreaths still work, especially if they are smaller and can be placed strategically. These add color, texture, interest, and life to the bookshelves - without feeling like Christmas. Even the ornaments look nice and not too Christmas-y because of their colors.

And despite their color, pine cones and nuts in their shells can add texture and interest to your decor, especially when placed in pretty or unusual containers. If it looks a little dark, a touch of bittersweet or holly berries can add color.

Yes, it's a long time before we see color and light outside our windows. So keeping a bit of the holiday in our  homes might just be the tonic we need.

Autumn Inspiration

As a volunteer for the Monroe Farmers' Market, I have the opportunity to spend Friday afternoons  surrounded by luscious colors and textures of the products grown by our local farmers in Connecticut. And last week I realized just how inspiring they are to me not only as delicious foods, but also as decorating ideas.

And that is at no time more true than in the fall. It's amazing to me the colors and textures nature provides as a palette in our produce at this time of year. And it's not just the pumpkins, although I do love to bring orange into my fall decorating. But it's also the rich colors and textures of peppers.

And let's not forget the figs!

The rustic colors and textures of potatoes.

                           

And this is just getting started! Let's not forget the apples, beets, kale . . . you get the idea. And the bottom line for me is, if nature can do it, so can I! That means it's okay to bring in a mix of colors and textures inspired by fall, whether it's in accessories or more permanent. So bring in the artwork, decorate that mantel, or re-do an entire room. 

It's fall - go for it! And if you need inspiration? Try your local farmers' market.

Smaller Can Be Better

Smaller has in many circles become the new "it" thing. Downsizing is big (unintentional play on words) - or at least it is with my generation. But articles and information abound on living smaller at all stages of life. And of course, there's the tiny house movement which, while I do love watching the television show, takes small to a new level. And I'm thrilled there are so many beautiful, smaller spaces and furnishings being featured in design magazines and furniture collections.

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Having downsized a couple of years ago, I have become a fan. But I have found there are a few things I've learned along the way to make a small space live large. 

The first is the importance of glass. Glass coffee tables, end tables, and even dining tables maintain their usefulness without taking up visual space. And clean-up is really no more difficult than with wood. Just use glass cleaner instead of a traditional wood cleaner. 

Lower profile furniture is available everywhere  now. Look for slim arms, bench cushions on sofas (with a length of 72" rather than the more traditional 86" or larger), and chairs with a depth of 28"-32". All are still very comfortable without being space hogs. And if you would like a little more seat room, add an ottoman, which can double as additional seating for guests.

This chair from Crate and Barrel is surprisingly comfortable.

And finally, don't forgo lamps because of less room. Just get creative with your lighting like the swing arm lamps above. They're not just for bedrooms anymore! Or try floor lamps with narrow bases. 

Bottom line: you don't have to give up comfort and style in a smaller space. You may need some creative storage solutions, but those can be stylish as wee. But that's a topic for another time.

There's More to Color Than Paint Chips

I fairly frequently get a desperation call from clients saying their painter is coming in a couple of days and they just can't decide on the paint color. Can I help? And my answer is generally "maybe".
But first you have to ask your painter to postpone the work.

Selecting color for a room (or an entire  house) is not just going to the paint store and picking out a few chips you like, then deciding among them. And while I won't go through the process I've outlined in earlier posts (chips on white posterboard in various positions), there are still a few things that you really need to keep in mind when painting.

All the walls and ceiling are the same color.

First, always select paint colors in the room to be painted. While you may be able to go to the store and select chips of colors you like -  and even bring fabric to coordinate -  they will look very, very different in the room to be painted. And the time of day and amount of light (both natural and
artificial) will vary the color as well, which is why it's extremely important to look at preferred colors during different times of day and in different parts of the room. If you've ever (as I  have) lain in bed and marveled at how one wall can't possibly be the same color as the adjacent wall, you know what I mean. To make the correct selection, live the colors for several days. Which means if you really don't want to make a mistake, the painters can't come tomorrow to paint.

Don't try to match colors. Instead, blend. If you have a painting or a piece of fabric that has a gorgeous color  you would love to see on the walls, find a color that blends with it. If you're not sure why, reread the last paragraph. Colors (of paint certainly, but even in fabrics and art) will look very different depending on the light. An exact match will be impossible. See  how the blues in the House Beautiful photo blend rather than match?

And finally (after saying all of that), don't overthink the process. Focus a bit more on your emotions. How do you feel when you see that color in this room? Are you happy? Does it seem to "work"? Then that's the color for you. After all, it's only paint.

Make It Yours . . .

It's easy to get confused about the "right" way to decorate, especially if you subscribe to a variety of decorating magazines. One will tell you to keep to a simple color and pattern design or the room will be overwhelmed, while another will suggest mixing and matching pretty much anything under the sun. (Have you seen the "exuberant" work of William Diamond?)

So rather than paying attention to what "they" are saying, perhaps you should pay attention to . . . yourself. And rather than looking at the glossy photos and wondering how to do that, start with looking around at your own home and deciding what you really like, and what you really don't.

Then start with getting rid of what you don't like, What you do like can (almost) always be incorporated, even if the color/style/overall design of the room changes.

I'm an excellent example of this. I was a huge lover of antiques, particularly Victorian. (I know, I know, but I used to live in a Victorian house.) When I lost that love (and left the house), I still had a few pieces I wanted to keep, but without keeping the overall Victorian look and feel. So I used a few simple techniques that I now recommend for my clients:

• Repeat something about the piece(s) you love in other pieces in the room. It could be color, shape, line, fabric . . . something that makes it feel like things "go" together, even if they are from completely different eras. (The 4-poster bed on the right fits right in with modern tables with similar turned legs and contemporary bedding.)
• Use it in a new way, something perhaps a bit unexpected. (In my case, a dining room buffet became a bedroom dresser, with a few minor alterations.)
• Pair it with something au courant. (My gorgeous-to-me split-pedestal dining table is now paired with parsons chairs in a lovely soft beige.)
• Give it an instant upgrade with a coat of paint, modern fabric, a simpler frame, new hardware. (New upholstery give the spindle chairs above an updated look.)

Simple changes like these won't mar the pieces you love, but will help give them a "new" look that will work as your tastes and styles change.

You've Got This

One of the most difficult aspects of working with my clients is seeing how some of them struggle to feel comfortable in their own homes. And the reason is usually because they think they don't know how to "decorate". It seems that with our design "rules" and shelter magazines, we've intimidated people so they are afraid of doing something wrong. So they do nothing at all.

I understand when people have rooms that just don't quite seem right and they can't figure out why not. There are some things that do go a long way towards making rooms warm and inviting. But that's different from not doing anything because you're afraid to do the wrong thing.

So here are a few of my "rules" that anyone can implement. And immediately feel better about their homes.

1. If you don't love it or use it, lose it. Why keep things around you that aren't useful or don't make you smile when you see them?
2. If you do love it, showcase it, whatever it is. And no matter what anyone else says. That means putting it on display, hanging it on the wall, using it regularly and not just on special occasions.
3. Less is generally more, but only because we can really notice our things if there's not too much else around them. That doesn't mean getting rid of anything (unless you don't love it), but perhaps rotating your things. You'll really appreciate them so much more when you do see them. 
4. Don't pay attention to trends, unless there's one you happen to really love. I can't tell you how
   
   many times I hear things like "I really love green, but I know it's not a good color for a dining room". There are no decorating police. See Rule #2.

Of course there are tips and tricks that can really work to make our homes look and feel the way we like. And we don't always know what they are or how to use them. But start with these 4 "rules" and you'll be well on your way!

Now I Know How It Feels

I realize I have been absent for a while, at least when it comes to blogging. I was very involved with the Association of Design Education conference in beautiful Lowell, MA. We had a wonderful time learning, growing, and sharing. I particularly loved Friday at RAW Furnishings 
owned by the very talented designer Debbe Daley. Her store is beautiful - here's a glimpse of it surrounding Sy Mahfuz (one of our great speakers). While you can't see just  how charming it is and  how many great things she has, I hope you can get a feel for it.

But more than just conference, in between my clients I've been working on our new-to-us house. It's proven to be quite the learning experience. While we certainly did a lot of work on the old house, because we bought it when it was being built, we made a lot of decisions during the building phase. Sure, we changed paint colors over the years, and did some updating. But it has been a very long time since I moved into a house and began making changes. Not necessarily big construction projects, but we've  had a houseful of workers nonetheless.

So rather than ignoring my blog, I've decided to share with you some of my experiences. I'll also share photos to get feedback and to show the results of my selections. So stay tuned. And let the journey begin!

Where Should the Money Be Spent?

It's getting close to move time! We will be in our new home shortly after the 4th of July. It's been a long while since I moved into a new home........16 years to be exact. I've been implementing suggestions I've used with my clients. And what better way to prove them true! Here are a few I've shared that are also working for me.

First, when buying new upholstered furniture, particularly the largest and most expensive pieces (such as the sofa) stay with neutrals. That means not only a neutral fabric, but also a neutral style. Neutral doesn't have to be borrowing, but it does  have to be something that can easily change as your tastes change. So when you want to change from the mod colors above to something a bit more formal and subdued, you can do so without having to spend a fortune on a new sofa.Or in the room below, plan for when the kids get older and their artwork is replaced by something more adult the sofa will still work. Simply change the coffee table and end table for something a bit more sophisticated and you have a new room - with the old sofa!


Keep window treatments simple. If you need privacy or light control, something classic and practical like Hunter Douglas Silhouettes or the rattan shades in these photos can be used alone. Ready for a change? Add stationery panels in fabrics and colors that give  you the new look and feel you are after. A much less expensive alternative to new custom draperies with all the bells and whistles. And an instant update to the room!

And finally, use area rugs to give you the color and texture you need, but don't spend a fortune. That way when it's time for a change in the style of the room, the rug can be a part of that change - and one you won't feel badly about.

What Makes a Desk?

Since reading Jennifer Hofmann's blog post from a few days ago about using tables as desks I've become mildly obsessed. I've also heard from a number of you that you also use a table in place of a desk. It makes sense for those of us who need a little more space. But I've really decided I love them just for their looks.

Courtesy HGTV

As an example, this one wouldn't work for me because of the size. But what a perfect desk for home use! If you do need a bit more space, a larger table like this would work just fine. With wonderful wireless technology, you can place it in the middle of the room so it really makes a statement.

Courtesy HGTV

I also love the idea of using a dining table as a desk. Keep it in the dining room so it has can still host holiday dinners. But use it the rest of the time as your desk. Or if you're lucky enough to have a great office space, a dining table still works very well. This is a great look - complete with dining chairs!

And finally, I'm a huge fan of sawhorse desks. I love the lines of the legs and the overabundance of space on top. I love that they are a contemporary look but can be used in a more traditional setting, like this one from William Sonoma. I love that the tops can be wood, or formica, or glass, or whatever flat surface that you choose. I love that you can even make one yourself if your so inclined.

Bottom line: think creatively yet practically  when it comes to your desk space. Tables of all shapes and sizes work very well in place of traditional desks. Just make sure you have the storage space you need elsewhere, then have fun!

Like these desk ideas? Check out my latest Pinterest board Unusual Desks for more great ideas.

We Need Lights at This Time of Year!

Lighting is critical in a good design plan. But even more so during the dark days of winter. While you may not have the budget to redo your home's entire lighting scheme, there are some easy changes you can make to make your home lighter and brighter at this time of year.

Begin with the entry. Even if you have a chandelier, a lamp on the entry table or a floor lamp beside a chair invite your visitors inside and set the tone for the rest of the home.

Check out the living and family rooms. Would changing lamp shades to a lighter color help? What about adding ambient lighting, such as a pretty accent lamp on a bookshelf or one or two on the mantel? Not only does this provide additional soft lighting to the room, they also help to draw your eye to a focal point of the room.

Dining rooms usually have a chandelier of some sort. (Design tip: your chandelier should be at least 12 inches narrower than the table and hung between 27" and 36" above it.) But what about buffet lamps? Would that bring a nice glow to the room?

Under-cabinet lighting is nice in the kitchen, but if you don't have it what about adding an accent lamp on the countertop? Ditto bathrooms, where having a lit lamp feels much warmer than walking into a dark space.

There are so many options available for lighting today. It's nice to know you don't have to spend a fortune if you don't want to! Want a few more ideas? Then check out my newest board on Pinterest Inexpensive Lighting Options

Easy Entertaining Ideas

It's the time of year for entertaining, whether it's a small family gathering or something larger with family and friends. Rather than become stressed, keep things simple.

Courtesy HGTV

Start with simple decorations If you're house is already decorated for the holidays, you're all set. If not, make it easy and green with things from the great outdoors (or the supermarket). Fill glass bowls with fruit spray-painted in holiday hues (pine cones work as well) and add a few ornaments. Sprigs of winterberry and holly in small vases scattered throughout the house are lovely, as are sprigs of fresh herbs.

Gather branches and spray-paint white, gold or silver and place in large vases, then add a few ornaments for additional interest. And, of course, plenty of candles everywhere.


Serve food buffet style - and don't hesitate to buy heat-and-serve or better yet, foods best served at room temperature. Stores like Costco and Trader Joe's offer wonderful prepared appetizers and dinner courses. Enhance them with your own special touches of spices or herbs, even just for decoration.

Keep your choice of dishes simple and easy as well. While paper may not be the best "green" choice, there are lovely tin dishes available that can easily be mistaken for "real". Or buy an inexpensive set of white dishes that go with everything. It won't matter if one breaks.

Now, sit back and enjoy spending time with your family and friends.

Winter Bedrooms

Nothing is better during the winter than settling into a nice cozy bed - in a nice cozy bedroom. Although I'm a believer in the sanctity of the bedroom at any time of year, it becomes even more important during the cold winter nights which are almost upon us.

Courtesy BHG

Many of my clients consider their bedrooms last in their decorating priority list. But I encourage them to at the very least consider easy, cost-effective changes to make this an inviting sanctuary at the end of the day.

One of the easiest changes is layering. Use a white quilt - no duvet cover is even necessary. Cover it with a lighter weight coverlet to add color and interest. Or fold a beautiful blanket at the end of the bed for additional warmth as needed.Add a wool throw pillow and you're ready for chilly nights!

Courtesy BHG

If you prefer a colorful duvet, it can be easy to make. Simply sew two sheets together on three sides and add velcro or pretty ribbon ties on the fourth to keep it together. Fold it at the end of the bed or use it as a spread for a pretty, colorful change.

Courtesy BHG

But don't stop with the bedding. What about adding a soft, textured cover to the bedside table?This may be in the living room, but it would still be at home next to the bed.

And of course, there are a flokati rug will add coziness, a bit of a warm, dramatic color, soft lighting, candles......you get the idea. For more winter bedroom inspiration, check out my new board on Pinterest.

Maybe You Need a Little Texture.......

Sometimes a room really seems to come together........except there's something that just seems to be missing. If you can't quite put your finger on it, that missing element may be texture.

Courtesy BHG

Texture can be easily overlooked so it often plays a quiet - but very important role - in our design plan. It creates interest, helps to set the mood of a room, and helps us to "feel" the room (because we remember how textures feel when we see them).

Typically, more traditional rooms have softer textures than those that are a bit more modern.Notice in the photo at left how the soft texture of the sofa contrasts nicely with the smoother texture of two of the throw pillows. The smoothness of the coffee table blends nicely with the textured sofa - and woven rug underneath adds another element. The smoothness of the lampshade helps balance the smoothness of the coffee table and the floral arrangements add their own very unique texture to the entire room.

Courtesy BHG

In a more contemporary room texture tends to play more of a minimalist role because of the sleekness of the style. However, even in this room, the chairs add a softness without the nubby comfort of the more traditional room. And all of the smoothness of the room is offset by the very plush rug, but without taking away from the contemporary look and feel of the room.

When incorporating texture into your room, keep in mind a few basic tips. Carry the texture story around the room, just like you do with the color story. Similar textures placed around the room will help carry your eye through the space, just as color does. In more colorful rooms, less is probably better with differing textures. The color statement may be so strong that a variety of textures may overwhelm the space. And finally, don't be afraid to do something a bit dramatic if it seems to be called for in the room. Just as that special accessory can add the punch a room needs, so can a very interesting texture.

If you'd like to see a few more examples of texture, check out my new board on Pinterest!

The Importance of Vignettes

I had the opportunity to stage a small but light-filled vacant condo in Milford, CT last week. Of course it was on a limited budget, which meant lots of creativity with the accessorizing. Then when I saw a fabulous vignette posted by Jill Hosking Cartland of Hosking Interiors on Facebook, I realized just how important accessorizing and vignettes are - regardless of the budget. They are truly like the icing on the cake.

So what does it take to create a memorable vignette? For one thing, not overdoing it. That means to let the display items speak for themselves. The simplicity of this arrangement allows each of the items to work together without one of them standing out. And the colors work perfectly with the rest of the room.

Courtesy BHG

Scale  is also important. Not only do the accessories need to fit the space they also need to work with each other. If implementing the rule of 3, think small, medium, and large.

Creativity in vignettes really makes them personal. Adding items that are important to you and your family add meaning. And mixing styles and textures can also create interest. And don't forget the artwork! Including artwork when appropriate completes the "picture".

Color, textures, shapes, creativity in selection - all go together to create something memorable. And for additional ideas, check out my new board on Pinterest.

That '70's Look

I'm not sure I'm wild about it, but it seems to be making a comeback. Having started my first away-from-home decorating experiences in college during the '70's, it can feel a little old to me rather than retro. Having said that, there are some things from the '70's I'm glad to see!

I love, love, love "shag" rugs. Now called Flokati, modern shag, or longer-pile rugs, they have a softer more appealing look than those of the '70's, despite being a bit difficult to clean.

While avocado green isn't a favorite, there is something to be said for harvest gold, especially when paired with brighter, more up-to-date colors like this light green and orange.

IKEA has fabulous offerings of the '70's retro look. Complete with floral coverings for their sofas and chairs, interesting coffee and end tables
(remember metal carts?), and very cool lights, it may just be the go-to place for that '70's look. I love this table!

And finally, lighting.....think swags, chrome, lava lamps........ Okay, forget the lava lamps. But don't hesitate to swag your pendant lamp. And if you're looking for a desk lamp, what could be cuter - or more retro - than this?

If you're like me and thinking maybe the '70's decorating wasn't all bad, check out my new board on Pinterest.