Color Trends: The Dynamic Palette

by Jamie Kern, ASID, ARIDO
Presiden, Design Theory Interiors

This is my favorite color palette.  I love something dynamic in nature that really makes one stop in his or her tracks and take a deep breath.   A more intense color palette will add energy and excitement to a space and can put a smile on your face.   The options are limitless.  The most fun about the dynamic palette is the constant challenge to find new and unique color combinations.  Stay tuned this spring to get a look at  a master bedroom I’m working on that combines pale lavendar, grey, black and Crimson red with gold and brass metallic finishes.

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Often times I look to advertising for inspiration.  Ads are meant to grab our attention so they have to be on the edge.  I was immediately drawn to this photo shoot.  See how amazing the amethyst of the model’s dress reacts to the bright tropical aqua of the oncoming truck.  I love the introduction of the natural greens in the lower photo and the way the neutral of the buildings and stone/concrete work as a canvas.   This entire palette could easily translate into an amazing interior space.

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Again with the neutral in the wall paper that serves as a canvas for bright green, black and leopard print. A taste of an animal print in any space will instantly increase it’s charisma and energy.   And, of course, a hint of red will add some unexpected sexy!!   Love the texture of the bamboo chairs and it’s interaction with the crystal chandelier!

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And who doesn’t love the 60’s with all the Mad Men craze?  Just so you know, mid-century is not a trend.  Sure, Mad Men has brought it to the front stage, but this is an era with amazing design and great color that will prove to be timeless.   How fun are these red chairs with Green upholstery and what looks like a chartreuse carpet?!?!   Notice the black accent with the buffet and pattered window treatments and I love those white wall sconces!   This isn’t an easy color combo to achieve but it could be magnificent if done well!

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Pink and Gold and Terra Cotta!   With White accents!   This is quite an exotic color palette made popular by the Indian culture with all of it’s brilliance.   I love pinks and this is a great way to introduce it without feeling too girly or too feminine.

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Navy Blue with Chartreuse Green  and a bit of neutral to tone it down.   And again. . . . . some black accents in the chair upholstery!    This particular photo looks fun, contemporary and youthful but could be beautifully done in a more traditional space as well.

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And how much fun is this?  Kind of has a loft feel.  Warm brown floors and walls.  Rustic and contemporary pieces comfortable together in this space.  But what makes it great is the striped yellow, pink and brown wall!   The neutral furnishings allow the wall to become a work of art on its own while the addition of pink pillows and artwork make the room a harmonious, cozy space.

Interior Color Trends: The Tranquil Palette

by Jamie Kern, ASID, ARIDO
President of Design Theory Interiors

I don’t believe in color trends.   A trend is a passing fancy; a contrived style whose goal is to attract the masses for a short period of time.   We run out and spend our money on the current fad only to realize that everyone else has done the same thing and we’re now a drop in the bucket of mediocrity.  If my clients are willing to spend their hard-earned cash on my expertise, then I want to ensure they have spaces that are aesthetically pleasing for years to come.

So, let’s use the term “Color Trends” loosely and look at some really great spaces that have successfully achieved wonderful results.  This post we’ll focus on a tranquil palette that is soothing and peaceful.  And you’ll be surprised how many ways this can be achieved!

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The white-on-white space is a sophisticated way to create a tranquil, relaxing space.  But you have to layer your whites; off-white, pure white, even a hint of tans/neutrals so that it doesn’t feel institutional.  and add punches of any color to relax the eye.  I love the unusual marriage of the pink and gold in the pillow and tabletop accessories in this photo.

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How romantic is this?  Seafoam green walls with lots of white and hints of pink and neutral upholstery.  The French-style carved legs of the sofa and chair are ethereal and I love the contrast with the primitive bench.  I can almost feel the summer breeze blowing through the gossamer window treatments

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Now this space achieves the same goal in a very different way.  Very calming and yet much more traditional.  Formal, yet still casual.  Pale blue walls and wonderful white painted trim is yummy with the wide plank painted floors.  Add a simple French provincial-style table and the room starts to relax.    Wonderful addition of texture and interest with the crystal chandelier and the metallic dining chairs

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This is for the bohemian hiding in all of us.   Striped walls, alternating paint and wallpaper are so clever.  I love the asymmetrical placement of the antique frame.  Sets the casual tone of the room.  Again, a lot of white but in this case, toned down with a barrage of pastel accessories and even a hint of red to add  a little sexy.

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This bedroom is the epitomy of sophistication.  Much more going on in this room with the patterned wallpapaper, rug and bed throw, but the cool colors paired with white bedding is stunning.  And any space is enhanced with a hint of black to add visual depth.  Notice the finish on the chandelier.  That’s a topic I’ll be pursuing in the next couple of weeks so stand by!

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And finally, we have sleek and contemporary.   This space pairs whites and neutrals in a range of shades so that you get nice rich browns without feeling like you’re in a cave.  The space is still bright, crisp and soothing.

Check back!   Next I’ll be introducing my favorite color palette . . . . . .