Wade into an elegance that ebbs and flows between the laid-back atmosphere of a coastal look and a more elevated yet approachable modern style. With Silver Strand anchoring the collection, May’s Seaside Tranquility palette weaves a harmonious backdrop of refreshing and relaxed comfort that ties it all together.Why I love it: Relaxing. Airy. Calming

Radiant Receptions

Greet guests with a stunning shade of warm white that bathes spaces with a welcoming feel. As backdrop, Egret White’s bright shade breathes an airy expansiveness into the sun-drenched foyer and sets a tone of serene sophistication. Subtle pops of Silver Strand’s soft, breezy shade evoke the soothing qualities of lounging by the seaside. Warm wood tones coupled with the texture of accents like a jute rug and wicker baskets underscore the rustic charm. The overall uncomplicated, minimalist approach leaves the space with a clean, fresh feel that’s timeless.

Get the look: Wicker, Weathered Wood, Rustic Wooden Flooring, Lush Greenery

Silver Strand Creates a Mood of Serene Haven

Silver Strand’s calming, green-gray hue looks perfect anywhere, instantly evoking a relaxed effortlessness. It’s perfect as a backdrop in a sunlit sitting room meant for unwinding and connecting. Tricorn Black’s striking hue on the doors offers a touch of modern elegance, elevating the casual ambiance while adding rich contrast and depth.

Get the look: Striped Patterns, Artisanal Items, Soft Palette, Black Framed Window

THE SEASIDE TRANQUILITY PALETTE

Do You Like the Calm, Relaxing Vibe of Silver Strand?

If you'd like me to help you explore how to bring the calm, coastal color of Silver Strand into your home or office, let's talk. I can guide you on so many ways that this airy hue might enhance your spaces.

And if you feel like other colors from the Seaside Tranquility palette might be a good fit, I'd be glad to consult with you on what makes the most sense for where your vision takes you. Just give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399.

I’m easy to reach – you can choose a contact method right below this blog post, and we can set up a consultation to explore this calming, happy shade together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also message me via my website contact page.

Nostalgia meets modern in Sashay Sand’s blushing beige-pink hue. This playful shade brings a lighthearted whimsy to April’s candy-coated color palette that’s made to charm. Why I love it: Sashay Sand is graceful, delicate, and warm.

Dial Up the Sweet Life with Sherwin-Williams' Sashay Sand

April’s Candy Filter palette adds a sweet sophistication to a design style that blends the best of past and present. Sashay Sand’s mood-boosting nature infuses spaces with a calming atmosphere of dreamy nostalgia.

As a backdrop, this subtle shade creates the perfect canvas for blending the simple minimalism of Scandinavian style with mid-century, vintage vibes. Decorative accents and furniture that evoke a bygone era but also feel at home in a modern design pull these looks together.

Get the look: Vintage Items, Mid-century Furniture, Light Wood Tones, Organic Shapes

Pastel Heaven

A bright, pastel palette of pinks, greens, and beiges is welcome anywhere, but it makes a standout statement in the kitchen.

Coupled with abundant natural light, White Snow walls and a Pearl Gray backsplash maintain an open, airy feel in the space that enhances the other shades.

Cascade Green’s dusty mint hue adds a surprise of charismatic color and balances the overall delicate lightness.

Get the look: Vintage Items, Mid-century Furniture, Light Wood Tones, Organic Shapes

Sashay Sand is Subdued and Simple

A subdued and simple approach sometimes works best for a kid's bedroom. Porcelain’s warm undertones hug the space with a comforting sense of security and coziness.

Aside from its timeless appeal that won’t go out of style, this neutral shade’s versatility allows subtle pops of Sashay Sand and supporting colors from the palette to add character and interest.

Get the look: Simplified Palette, Layered Fabrics, Natural Wood, Mixed Textures

Talk to me if you'd like me to show you how to bring these shades to life in your home.

THE CANDY FILTER PALETTE

Do You Like the Nostalgic Playfulness of Sashay Sand?

Ready to see if this delicate, warm blush neutral works in your space? If you think the Candy Filter palette speaks to you and would like some help figuring out how to best use some of these fun neutrals in your spaces, just give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399. 

I’m easy to reach – you can choose a contact method right below this blog post, and we can set up a consultation to explore this calming, happy shade together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also message me via my website contact page.

Find renewal with a rejuvenating dark green. A rich hue like Sherwin-Williams’ Roycroft Bronze Green (SW 2846) evokes the tranquil atmosphere of a deep, shaded forest.

Why I Love It: Rustic. Earthy. Muted.

Nestle into Nature

March is that time of year when the earth wakes up to find itself green yet again. Our Woodland Retreat palette is a timely nod to fresh, nature-inspired color. At the center of the collection sits Roycroft Bronze Green, a versatile forest green that effortlessly captures the calm serenity of the outdoors. This moody shade’s earthy character envelops interiors with an easy, inviting feel perfectly fit for a modern rustic look.

Get the look: Mixed Textures, Handcrafted Items, Organic Shapes, Greenery

A Little or a Lot

Roycroft Bronze Green makes a statement whether in large or small doses. Just a hint of this shade on doors or trim ties the space together with the library, creating a harmonious room-to-room color story. White Sesame walls create a clean, uncomplicated backdrop for Tarragon‘s compelling blue-green shade to stand out on cabinets. The slight warmth from White Sesame emphasizes the impression of a relaxed yet elevated style.

Get the look: Natural Light, Simplified Palette, Wood Tones, Clean Lines

Snug Spaces

Wheat Penny‘s sunbaked, terracotta tone radiates cozy and comforting warmth that easily fills any space. Its humble, earthy energy is grounding, creating a sense of laid-back sophistication. Organic accents and natural materials connect to the outdoors and add to the nature-inspired vibe of the look.

Get the look: Earth Tones, Natural Light, Raw Wood, Natural Elements

Ready to get close to nature with Roycroft Bronze Green? Get FREE color chips delivered to see the whole Color of the Month palette in person! Need personalized, expert guidance? Book a FREE Virtual Color Consultation with one of our color experts to bring these shades to life in your home.

The Woodland Retreat Palette

Here are some more photos showing the rich, soothing earthiness of Roycroft Bronze Green...

Do You Like the Richness of Roycroft Bronze Green? 

Ready to see if this deep, serene color works in your space? If you like this deep dive into the forest and would like some help figuring out how to best use it in your spaces, just give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399. 

I’m easy to reach – you can choose a contact method right below this blog post, and we can set up a consultation to explore this rich, deep, soothing shade together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also message me via my website contact page.

Join me as I share how a small bathroom makeover brought storage and serenity to a cramped space, turning a dream into reality. (130 characters)

The Challenge of Confining Spaces  

As a designer, I'm always intrigued by the challenge small spaces present. This was precisely the case when my friend Linda approached me for help with her small bathroom. The limited space and lack of storage had everything out in the open, creating a sense of clutter and disarray.

The Vision: Crafting Serenity and Storage for a Small Bathroom Makeover

In tackling this small bathroom makeover, my goal went beyond mere renovation. I aimed to create a haven for Linda, a space that was not only functional but also a reflection of her desire for a calm, monochromatic aesthetic. By designing a new vanity, we could neatly tuck away toiletries, a curling iron, and a hairdryer, instantly elevating the room's look and feel.

Maximizing Space and Light: A Key to Small Bathroom Makeover 

One of Linda's favorite enhancements was the addition of a larger mirror. This choice was pivotal, making the room appear more spacious and reflecting light beautifully. This experience reinforced my belief in the power of mirrors to transform a space, a simple yet impactful decision in any small bathroom makeover.

Client Satisfaction: A Dream Fulfilled 

The completion of Linda's bathroom makeover was more than a project conclusion; it was the realization of her dream. Linda's heartfelt feedback, "Carmen, I absolutely love my bathroom. Mornings, when I shower, I feel such gratitude for the beauty all around me. Aesthetically, it’s my dream come true," truly touched me. It's moments like these that remind me why I love what I do.

The Impact of Thoughtful Design 

This small bathroom makeover at Pinewood Court exemplifies how thoughtful design can significantly enhance daily life. From optimizing storage to strategically using mirrors, every choice made was aimed at transforming Linda's cramped bathroom into a space of beauty and functionality.

As I reflect on this project, I'm reminded of the profound impact interior design can have on our well-being. It's not just about aesthetics; it's about creating spaces that resonate with our clients, making their dreams a tangible reality. For anyone considering a small bathroom makeover, remember that with creativity and strategic design, even the smallest spaces can be transformed into serene sanctuaries.

Could You Use a Small Bathroom Makeover?

If this article has you looking around at your bathrooms, and feel like it's time for an update, let me know, and I'll come by and review it with you and we can discuss possibilities. Do let me know if you're interested.

Choose a contact method below this blog post, or click this “contact” link. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com

And you can always call me anytime at (407) 743-2399.

Discover the Top 2024 Interior Design Trends from 1stDibs’ Latest Designer Survey

The anticipation for 2024 Interior Design Trends has become a much-awaited annual event. Each year, 1stDibs, the leading online marketplace, engages with designers and industry experts to forecast the future of interior aesthetics. The insights from their seventh annual survey reveal what's next in the world of design."

Chocolate Brown: Rich Warmth in 2024 Interior Design Trends

Chocolate brown emerges as a leading color in the 2024 interior design trends, marking a significant rise in preference among designers. This sultry hue, alongside earthy tones like burnt orange and mustard, signifies a shift towards warmth and comfort in interior spaces.

The Blue Evolution: Refreshing Hues in 2024 Interior Design Trends

2024 sees a nuanced shift in blue hues, with robin’s egg gaining favor. This subtle evolution reflects a broader trend towards serene and inviting interiors, illustrating the dynamic nature of color trends in design.

The Enduring Appeal of Green 

Green maintains its dominance, symbolizing the ongoing desire for nature-inspired elements in interior design. The shift towards sage green underscores a preference for timeless, soothing colors in 2024's design trends.

Textures and Materials: Shaping the Future of 2024 Interior Design Trends 

Textures and materials like limewash, ceramic/terra-cotta, and blond wood highlight the move towards tactile, comforting environments. This trend points to a broader appreciation for materials that evoke a sense of calm and warmth.

Curves and Patterns Define Spaces 

The preference for curved furniture and patterned wallpapers, including ceiling applications, speaks to a desire for playful, dynamic interiors. This trend reflects a broader move towards personalized, character-rich spaces. Bold, large-scale patterns are stopping into the limelight.

Midcentury and Scandinavian Influences Persist in Shaping 2024 Interior Design Trends

Designers forecast a continued appreciation for midcentury and Scandinavian modernism, with a balanced embrace of minimalism and maximalism. These influences demonstrate the diverse inspirations helping define 2024 interior design trends.

Iconic Designs Remain Timeless 

Classics like Eames chairs and Noguchi lamps retain their allure, signaling the lasting impact of iconic designs in shaping contemporary interiors. This trend underscores the enduring relevance of historical design elements.

A Future of Cautious Optimism 

Designers express a cautious yet optimistic outlook, considering economic factors and the slow adoption of digital innovations like AI in their practice. This perspective reflects a broader industry contemplation on the future of design.

The Importance of Physical Spaces 

Physical storage solutions like walk-in closets and libraries underscore the continued preference for tangible, functional elements in home design, countering the speculative trends towards virtual environments.

Shifting Away from Overly Bright and Bold 

The move away from eye-popping shades of bright, neon colors and edgy accessories marks a broader trend towards subdued, sophisticated design choices, reflecting a maturing aesthetic preference.

Did You Get Inspired?

I hope these stylish interior design trends for 2024 have inspired you regarding any upgrades, renovations, or remodeling that you might be considering! If you’d like me to help you update your spaces with some of these new and exciting trends in interior design, contact me.

You can choose a contact method right below this blog post. And feel free to give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399, and we can explore some wonderful decor and design approaches together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also click this link to message me via my website.

Craft a cozy haven of airy serenity with a soft gray. The humble, calming character of Drift of Mist calls to mind a slower pace and the joy in simplicity.

Why I love it: serene, inviting, versatile.

Keeping It Simple

Simple meets cozy in a design style that’s a perfect match for February’s Mindful Minimalist palette. This collection of tonal hues, anchored by Drift of Mist (SW 9166), embodies the essence of a style that blends delicate minimalism and warm elegance. It’s a look that gets its sense of tranquil harmony from its soft, muted shades, clean lines, and spaciousness. Skyline Steel, the featured color in the living room, balances the minimalist character of the space with its warm, comforting shade.

Get the Look: Simple Palette, Mixed Textures, Wood Tones, Organic Shapes

Drift of Mist is Relaxed & Restful

Drift of Mist’s soft gray tone provides a serene backdrop and sets the tone for a soothing sanctuary. It’s a restful space of quiet beauty that takes on the peaceful, calming vibes of this honest shade. A Quarry Stone-covered accent wall adds definition and subtle contrast, anchoring the space in its slightly deeper, putty tone. Coordinating shades in the textiles and furniture evoke the simple harmony of nature.

Get the Look: Layered Textiles, Plush Textures, Wood Accents, Clean Lines

Clean & Serene

Bathed in the light airiness of Drift of Mist’s soft hue, any space instantly takes on an oasis atmosphere of quiet calm. With an abundance of natural light and open space, the serene vibes at the heart of this style fill the room. This shade’s easy ability to shift its character with the light gives it the sense of clean minimalism this look thrives on while also bringing a feeling of comforting warmth. What better way to blend impressions than with a truly versatile, neutral shade.

Get the Look: Plants, Natural Light, Open Space, Natural Elements

The Mindful Minimalist Palette (featuring Drift of Mist):

Ready to see if Drift of Mist works in your space? If you like this serene, versatile paint color and would like some help figuring out how to best use it in your spaces, just give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399. 

I’m easy to reach – you can choose a contact method right below this blog post, and we can set up a consultation to explore this rich, tranquil shade together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also message me via my website contact page.

The 2023 holiday season was a good one for Christmas tree decorating this year and quite the whirlwind! I've got a handful of photos to share with you of some of the decorating done for some of my holiday decorating clients.

Let's talk about holiday decorating for your own home or business (or both) for this upcoming 2024 fall holiday season. I always encourage people to book early – and even though we're at the start of the year, I can pencil you in for later this fall, so let me know if you're interested.

Below, you'll see photos from some of my Christmas decorating this season, including creations for Corcoran Premier Realty at the Festival of Trees event, Melbourne Junior League, Orlando Infiniti, the Jaguar Land Rover dealership, a private residence...and even the tear-down crew!

And just a good note on the Festival of Trees: we had a very successful event with over 13,000 attendees, 1,000 more than last year! And that is very good news because money raised from the event ultimately supports the arts and art education at the Orlando Museum of Art.

If you'd like me to do some holiday decorating for your home or business, consider booking with me (the earlier the better) for 2024 holiday decorating. And remember, it doesn't have to be just Christmas. Many clients like to have something that starts in the fall, transitioning to Thanksgiving, and then beyond, to Christmas. You'll definitely get holiday decorating done right by my team and I.

Choose a contact method right below this blog post, or click this “contact” link. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com And you can always call me anytime at (407) 743-2399.

Since it was first introduced in 2010, the peach emoji has come to symbolize everything from a stone fruit, a particularly taut derriere, and—of course—a booty call. In 2024, however, it will be the color on everyone’s walls, according to Pantone. Today, the global color authority named Pantone 13-1023 Peach Fuzz as its 2024 Color of the Year (COTY).

The hue, one of more than nearly 20,000 in the company’s color library, is a blushing orange-pink. It’s a warm, comforting color that Pantone’s experts feel will epitomize the mood in the year ahead. Leatrice Eiseman, the executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, describes Peach Fuzz as “nurturing,” and “warm and welcoming.”

An evolution in trends and global mood

“In a world that can seem very harsh, people are looking for colors that soothe, colors that are soft and warm, colors that nurture and provide us with comfort,” Eiseman says.

The announcement marks the 25th anniversary of Pantone’s annual COTY unveiling—an event that sets the standard for industries ranging from interiors to fashion to packaging design. And while Peach Fuzz may feel like a sharp turn from its showy sister, Pantone’s 2023 COTY Viva Magenta, Eiseman says next year’s choice marks an “evolution”—both of trends and the global mood.

“Viva Magenta was an animated red shade, both powerful and empowering, that encouraged experimentation and self-expression, encouraging us as we endeavored to write a new narrative for our lives,” she says. “As we move into 2024, we are seeing that at a time of turmoil in many aspects of our lives, our need for nurturing, empathy, and compassion is growing stronger, as are our imaginings and desire for a more peaceful future.”

Echoes of Barbenheimer?

Pantone’s favored 2024 tint also echoes the coming year’s “Barbenheimer”-esque array of competing COTYs, which have ranged from dark, moody hues like slate and evergreen (see Behr’s Cracked Pepper) to a spectrum of optimistic blues (take Benjamin Moore’s Blue Nova and Sherwin-Williams’s appropriately named Upward). “Different companies and brands are going to want to send different messages depending upon the products they offer,” Eiseman says “There is never just one trend, and some may want to send a message of protective cover or mystery and intrigue.”

Everything's peachy!

One thing was for sure: Variations of peach popped up virtually everywhere the Pantone team looked. “We were seeing colors in the peach family…in all areas of design from clothing and color cosmetics to carpets and cars,” Eiseman explains, speaking to their research process that kicks off in May. “As we spoke with people and zeroed in on the mood and what people were looking for, we started to zone into this particular family of color.”

“We did not feel there were other color families that were strong contenders,” she adds.

Jump on the peach bandwagon

And Pantone isn’t the only company keen on peach: Benjamin Moore named Pristine, a barely there peach, among its trending array of shades, while HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams homed in on a sandy tangerine called Persimmon for next year.

Color experts see these hues as a new cadre of neutral—a trend paint companies and color forecasters have been predicting since the pandemic. Eiseman, for her part, thinks Peach Fuzz works perfectly as a wall color, especially in bathrooms, where, she points out, it is “very flattering to all skin tones.” 

She also sees it as the ideal color for accessories, ranging from rugs to countertop kitchen appliances. “With that said, we would like designers to bring the color into their designs in a way that expresses their vision.”

What do you think about this Pantone Color of the Year 2024: Peach Fuzz? 

Does it feel like a warm, nurturing, comfortable color? Let me know your thoughts, especially if you’d like to explore using this color in any of your spaces, or even in fabrics – I can help you test the waters.

If this comforting peachy color for 2024 inspires you, and you’d like to see how to incorporate it into your spaces, I’m always available for consultations. Choose a contact method right below this blog post, or click this “contact” link. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com And you can always call me anytime at (407) 743-2399.