Color is emotional. It can effect our moods greatly. Recently paint company CIL did a study about color trends and came up with some interesting findings. “Our research found that in good economic times, people tend to favor brighter colors, while in difficult economies, more somber hues like white, beige and grey are the preferred choice,” said Jennifer Jones, Marketing Communications Manager of CIL Paints.
The reasons are simple. According to Jenifer, “During difficult economic times, neutrals are popular because they are safe.” Neutral colors have a calming effect, but that’s not the only reason for explaining these findings. Neutrals are easy to mix and match with other colors and they never go out of style. Therefore, buying a neutral sofa, or painting a house in a neutral color makes people feel more confident and relaxed that they have made a smart, long-lasting decorating decision.
Throughout 2010 and into 2011 people will continue to seek a "feel good" decorating of the past. They will continue to simplify and lean towards aged, heirloom colors while reusing, repainting and refinishing existing furniture. Varying tones of gray and white are in; every shade from warm putty to to cool steel gray. These colors combined with a warm buttery yellow or deep taupe will bring warmth and simplicity to any room. People will also lean toward earthy browns, aged greens, smokey blues and tangerine for both fabric and paint.
Tomorrow marks the first day of fall. Even if finances are tight there are still things you can do to add a cozy feeling to your home for the fall months. Simply changing your candle scents can totally change the atmosphere of your home. You can find 15 scents on my website www.tammydarrow.com The new Warm Cinnamon Pumpkin is the most wonderful fall candle I believe I have ever smelled! It's a must have for every home! A simple potpourri mix on the stove each day can bring a wondrous aroma to any home.
Place a small saucepan of water on the back burner of your stove. Slice or grate an orange directly into the water. You may also add apple slices, if you like. Bring to a boil and reduce to simmer. Add 1/2 tsp or nutmeg and stir. Add a stick of cinnomon or 1/2 tsp. of ground cinnamon. Stir. Add one small clove. (Do not overdo it on the clove as it can overwhelm the other spices). The clove will counteract the citrus and balance the potpourri. Leave on the lowest setting. Check hourly to see if you need to add more water. This mixture will last the entire day and make your home smell like you've been baking all day!
Only decorating fireplace mantles at Christmas is a thing of the past. An Autumn mantle can quickly become the centerpiece of any well decorated home. Drape your mantle in autumn garland. Arrange a few harvest themed figurines such as pumpkins and gourds for a colorful focal point....and voila!
Layering a few blankets on the couch and living rooms chairs makes for a very cozy room. Add a small wicker basket to the room to collect folded blankets when they're not in use.
As the weather starts to change here and we begin experiencing all the sights and smells of the fall season, my family begins to reminsce about "falls past." They begin craving the fall dishes and cuddly movie nights on the couch with popcorn and hot apple cider. Take time to take time this season. Enjoy your family and linger in the moment as often as you can. Use the fall tips shared above to make your home a wonderful refuge from the hustle and bustle of the outside world. Make it a point to begin living a life of simple abundance.
Life is a gift. Untie the ribbons!
Until next time,
Tammy
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