Wondering what’s on trend for this year? Let me introduce you to Marsala, Pantone’s Color of the Year for 2015. Marsala is a deep, earthy red that is sure to please. Not only is this color gorgeous with a variety of skin tones, making it an instant sensation in beauty and fashion, but a rich, sophisticated color that will add warmth and elegance to any home or interior. Unlike other trending colors of the past (sorry Orchid 18-3224, you just didn’t cut it for me…), Marsala is an easy-to-live-with trend that is sure to become a classic.

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Yes, it is the THIRD week of January and I’m just getting around to my first entry of the new year. So far it has been somewhat of an uncomfortable start to 2015. Like many, I am looking ahead, setting goals, and developing strategies for success. But in order to grow, I’m also taking an honest look back to see how I can learn from 2014. It’s a bit of a weird space I’m in, and one I’m not sure how to describe. In any case, here are some thoughts to celebrate and inspire the potential of a new beginning.

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Wishing you and yours a very merry holiday! <3

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As we jump back on our tour of incredible spaces, let’s adjourn to the bedroom.

Essential characteristics for a successful space: Think COMFORT - soft textures, pleasant lighting, cozy furniture. Think RELAXING - chose colors and patterns that make you happy and peaceful. Think PERSONAL - this is one of the most private and sacred rooms in your home. Create a space to nurture and honor yourself.

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Wishing you a wonderful Thanksgiving!

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Stair systems can be pretty standard. Rise, run, railing - end of story. But that doesn’t have to be the case. The following images illustrate how a staircase can contribute to the interest and character of a home.

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If you ask me, every home should have a cozy corner of some sort. Check these out:

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Depending on the size of the home, some families may have both a living room and a family room. For others, these terms may be interchangeable. I consider living rooms to be more mature, slightly more formal in nature, whereas family rooms are kid-friendly and casual.

Essential characteristics for a successful space: comfortable seating, appropriate materials, and extra pillows or blankets for snuggly moments. Carefully consider what activities this room must accommodate as well. For example, include a side table and lamp for reading, flexible furniture arrangement for morning yoga or family dance party, and storage for board games/movies/books/etc.

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Next on our merry tour of wonderful spaces, the dining room. Often reserved for more formal occasions, I would love to see this room evolve into a functional medley of sorts. For example, large tables work exceptionally well for puzzle making, crafting, homework, gift-wrapping, and more. A word of caution: be tidy and organized - you don’t want this to become the largest catch-all in your home.

Essential characteristics for a successful space: storage for specialty dinnerware/ linens/candlesticks/etc., layers of (dimmable) light can help create the right mood, and be mindful of chair movement and table proportions when selecting an area rug.

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Beg your pardon while I pause to peruse these pictures of pleasant pantries

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