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Easy and Inspiring Winter Decor Ideas for 2022

Easy and Inspiring Winter Decor Ideas for 2022

Cozy! That’s the word that best defines winter decor. I’ll bet you want your home to be cozy and offer a warm welcome to family and friends, especially at holiday time.

You don’t need to do major renovations or spend a small fortune. Simple little changes to your spaces add that extra feeling of comfort and warmth.

Here are some simple ways to create cozy winter decor:

Cozy winter decor means blankets everywhere

Cozy, warm winter decor means lots of blankets.

Winter always provides a great opportunity to pull out more blankets and have them all around the home, doing double duty, adding a nice casual style, along with providing actual warmth when needed.

Lots of blankets for color, warmth and texture in winter decor

Blankets are an inviting way to make your house more cozy and comfortable. You can use blankets on the sofa, on office furniture, over an armchair, on the porch bench, or anywhere you might want to add a little extra color and texture, and yes, warmth.

Switch out the rugs

Time to put away the sisal rugs and pull out some high and fluffy rugs. In summer, natural fiber rugs are the best choice because they are cooler, in winter it is the opposite.

Thicker, warmer rugs will introduce "cozy" to your winter decor.

This season, look for high-pile rugs…remember that key word: cozy.

Invest in pillows

Cushions give you such a great option to introduce colors and textures, as well as comfort. All three qualities together definitely make for a cozy environment. Carry the idea of “warm” throughout your decor upgrades at holiday time.

For color, texture and warmth, investing in pillows for cozy winter decor makes good sense.

Here’s another tip: in the wintertime, use pillows with warm. tactile fabric covers, such as textured cloth, crochet, and velvet. Leave the satin covers for the summer.

winter decor ideas - blankets

Add some coziness with warm lighting

The color of the lamps also has a lot of relevance in winter decoration. The yellowish tones, considered warm, refer to fire, fireplaces and bonfires.

A lantern adds a lot of warmth and color to your wintry decor.

The warm colors that lamps and candles can introduce definitely enhances a mood of coziness. Yellowish, warm tones link to fireplaces and the hearth.

Easy and Inspiring Winter Decor Ideas for 2022

Light fixtures, lamps, and ceiling spots can easily convey warm tones of light that let you relax into the wintertime with family and friends.

Keep the whiter lights for places where focus and concentration are needed, such as the kitchen, office, and study.

Plants have their own lush warmth to add to your winter decor

Imagine plants like that yummy hug. Your house is more intimate, welcoming, and comfortable with them. They nicely pull a room together.

A warm bulb in a fixture can warm up an otherwise cool room

Plants are great for any room, whether bringing life and color into the living room, spreading vases around multiple rooms (vases also introduce variety with warm colors, textures, and natural tones), or even plants in the bathroom (they love the moist “hothouse” air).

Bring in the green with plants for your winter decor.

Do be careful with your selection of plants. Remember that each of them requires a different light level. Research what works best in each location ahead of time.

Scatter candles to warm up your winter decor

Candles are the best! They decorate, illuminate and add warmth. That description is exactly what winter decoration is all about.

Scatter candles everywhere for warm cozy winter decor.

For safety reasons, it’s best to place candles in holders of some kind, preventing fires. Glass and mirrors tend to bounce the light all around, adding a nice touch, and metal support bases can add another dimension of warm color into the room.

Also, be mindful of where the candle will be lit. Avoid locations near flammable objects, such as curtains, or dry, papery decor.

Light up that fireplace (or bring one inside)

Winter is also the ideal time to put away the fan and light up that fireplace, of course.

Light up that fireplace for cozy warm winter decor.

You don’t need to have a masonry fireplace in your living room. Nowadays there are very efficient, portable fireplaces that add that extra warmth for a cozy winter environment.

I hope these winter decor ideas help you find simple cost-effective ways to dress up your home for a wintry, cozy mood this holiday season! If you’d like to have me bring some holiday styling to your home or office, 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 lovely winter holiday decor ideas together. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com and you can also click this link to message me via my website.

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Raspberry Blush, Benjamin Moore's 2023 Color of the Year

Benjamin Moore’s 2023 Color of the Year Is Raspberry Blush

The fiery red-orange will inspire you to break out of your color comfort zone.

Over the last several years, muted colors have encouraged serenity in our homes. Last year, it was all about green, fostering a connection with nature. Now, Benjamin Moore is looking to a bolder, more courageous future with its Color of the Year for 2023: Raspberry Blush (2008-30). The saturated red-orange is basically the best color in a really good sunset, and it’ll inspire you to break free from your color comfort zone.

Paint bold walls with the 2023 color of the year.

“It’s a really charismatic color and doesn’t sit quietly on the wall,” says Andrea Magno, color marketing and development director at Benjamin Moore. “It’s about awakening our senses and getting people to engage with a vivacious color.”

Make your kitchen come alive with the 2023 color of the year.

The 2023 color of the year is a trend toward warmer hues

Notably, Raspberry Blush marks a pull toward warmer hues. “We’ve had colors that are on the cooler side of the color wheel for a number of years, and now we’re really starting to see a shift to the warmer colors,” Magno says.

Try a piece of furniture painted in the 2023 color of the year.

Playing with Raspberry Blush can mean blanketing your walls with it—like as a modern take on the red dining room of the past—or incorporating it in a smaller way through a painted piece of furniture. No matter how much surface area you allot for the color, it’ll bring high energy into any space.

A throw lets you test the waters with the 2023 color of the year.

Exciting colors trending for 2023

Raspberry Blush also sets the stage for Benjamin Moore’s color trends palette for 2023. The eight-color palette features an eclectic mix of colors with nostalgic references to periods like the ’80s and ’90s as well as deeply saturated hues found in the wild. “A lot of times people talk about (and we’ve done it, too) looking at nature as a point of inspiration,” Magno explains. “But for this year, instead of looking at more organic, vegetal colors, we were looking at the standout colors—the fiery colors of a sunset, tropical flowers, the depths of the Mediterranean.”

Benjamin Moore's 2o23 color trends palette.

To celebrate Raspberry Blush, Benjamin Moore tapped the electro-funk duo Chromeo to bring the color’s personality to life through a new song fittingly called “Raspberry Blush.” You can also find eight playlists dedicated to each color in the palette on Spotify for an immersive visual and audible experience—perfect for putting on the loudspeaker as you give your home a paint refresh!

Do you love the Benjamin Moore 2023 color of the year?

If this bold new coral color for 2023 has inspired you, and you’d like to see how to incorporate it into your spaces, I’m always available for consultations. If this sounds appealing, we can talk about how Raspberry Blush can enhance your interior spaces. 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.

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Mix interior design styles.

Tips to Easily Mix Interior Design Styles

Would you like to mix furniture and decor design styles in your home but don’t know how? Are you struggling to create a cohesive look with the mix of furniture and accent pieces you’ve accumulated?

Mixing takes some practice, but it makes the decorating experience much more enjoyable. This loose style is a great equalizer in interior design. A mixed style snubs its nose at the rules by blending old with new, cheap with pricey, bold with subtle, and classic with trendy.

While there are many different interior design styles, few fit into just one category. More and more people favor a mixed style to play off their existing furnishings and incorporate new pieces. Combining what you have on hand with something completely new and unexpected gives you the license to invent a uniquely tailored style for your home.

The good news is you can easily and beautifully mix different decorating styles, like traditional, modern, or farmhouse, to create a stylish interior. Follow these helpful tips and guidelines to design with confidence.

Pick your main style

Mix interior design styles.

One way to start mixing and matching interior design styles is to employ the 80/20 rule. This means that approximately 80 percent of your space should feature one design style, and the other 20 percent can include others.

For example, if you have a living room with a traditional sofa and chairs, for instance, you can lighten the look by adding framed contemporary prints and light curtains in a natural material.

Most people end up mixing decorating styles in their home without realizing it. That’s what makes your home warm and inviting.

The neutral color palette in the example shown here, allows the homeowner to easily incorporate fun and trendy accent pieces without needing to completely redo the room.

Consider your space

Mix interior design styles.

A room’s built-in features can influence its style. For instance, white-painted crown molding may impart a traditional look, while an open floor plan and concrete flooring can provide a modern feel.

But there are ways to work in other styles, too, despite your space’s existing structural elements. You can make a traditional kitchen with white cabinets and butcher-block counters look more contemporary by giving it a bold backsplash and modern tile flooring.

Or you can warm a modern space with high ceilings by adding a comfy traditional-style sofa, a rustic brick accent wall, and warm pops of color.

Create balance

Mix interior design styles.

Combining diverse design styles is a balancing act. To make your space look harmonious, give each side of the room equal visual weight.

For instance, if a large built-in bookcase dominates one area, you could counterbalance it with an overstuffed sofa on the other side of the room. If your coffee table features a red vase, add other red accessories throughout the space.

If you want to combine two design elements in your room, such as Scandinavian and midcentury modern, intersperse both styles throughout instead of featuring one style at one end and the other style at the other.

Find commonality

Mix interior design styles.

You can effortlessly mix contrasting furnishings by accentuating the qualities they share.

For instance, a transitional-style sofa, midcentury accent chairs, rustic coffee table, and farmhouse dining table can look perfect together if your sofa and chairs have similar farmhouse-style throw pillows and your rustic and midcentury furnishings have matching wood tones.

Texture can blend design styles and make a room more interesting. If you have a space filled with industrial-style furniture but would like to bring in rustic features, you could add a live-edge wood coffee table with black hairpin legs and a distressed wood mantel over your fireplace.

Use color to unify

Mix interior design styles.

Repeating colors is an effective tactic for blending design styles. A good rule of thumb is to develop a color palette with three to five main colors. You can expand this color scheme by adding lighter or darker versions of its core colors.

You can even turn a design element that’s pricey or stands out from the rest of your decor into a focal point by incorporating its palette into your overall color scheme. For example, if you have a red-brick fireplace, you can pick up its rust color as an accent color in your room to make your fireplace pop.

Know your design styles

Mix interior design styles.

It’s helpful to know the hallmarks of design styles when planning your decor. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Bohemian: If you love a global aesthetic, this style, which mixes and matches fabrics and decor from around the world, is for you. Think Japanese block prints, handwoven rugs, and hanging macramé planters filled with houseplants.

Industrial: This style suggests an urban loft or warehouse, and it may include exposed beams and ductwork, high ceilings, concrete surfaces, and sparse furniture.

Modern: A modern style is defined by sleek, clean lines, dark-hued colors—think black-framed windows—and a combination of metal, glass, and steel.

Modern farmhouse: Popularized by designer Joanna Gaines, this style features a light and neutral color palette, homey fabrics like chunky knits and grain sacks, natural and painted wood furniture, decorative wood signs, and rustic shiplap walls.

Scandinavian: Rooms with a Scandinavian theme may have white walls and feature uncluttered spaces accented with lush houseplants, minimalistic furniture, and light wood floors à la IKEA.

Traditional: Traditional design may include luxurious features, such as ornately carved furniture, dark wood finishes, gold flourishes, rich fabrics like velvet, and curved lines.

Transitional: This style mixes modern and traditional styles and may include traditionally inspired furniture that’s toned down in size and ornamentation and a neutral color palette with bright splashes of color.

Mix interior design styles.

Tips for Mixing Interior Styles

  • Make things equally distributed: Don’t segregate different styles in one room. Mix them throughout the space to make it easier on the eye.
  • Employ similar shapes: Select furniture pieces that have comparable forms. A mid-century track arm sofa won’t look great next to roomy, deep-seated club chairs.
  • Create a constant vibe: If you prefer an ornately formal bedroom, don’t bring in modern or casual furnishings. Try to keep things likewise formal, even if the pieces vary in style. This will maintain the room’s mood.
  • Blend decade styles: You can combine decade styles, such as the 1950s, 60s, and ’70s, that create a bridge between the 30 years. The mid-century decades work well with each other and can easily merge.
  • Balance the room: Whether you use different end tables and diverse objects on either side of a sofa, you should maintain equal visual weight to create equilibrium in the room.
  • Retain scale within the space: Keep all the furnishings in scale. For example, don’t put a small settee next to an overstuffed recliner. Make sure furniture pieces have a similar scale and also relate to the room’s size.
  • Use compatible colors: When mixing decor styles, use coordinating or consistent colors to create a cohesive look. If you want to bring in a modern chair with a traditional sofa, choose upholstery colors that work together.
If you like the idea of mixing interior design styles but not sure what works with what you already have, I’d be glad to help you with that. Just choose a contact method right below this blog post, or click this “contact” link. You can also email me directly at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com, and you can always call me at (407) 743-2399.

Let’s connect and discuss your vision!

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How do you decorate large walls?

How Do You Decorate Large Walls?

Sometimes wall art might be a painting, and sometimes it’s something else.

There are a handful of “essentials” that make a home or space functional and comfortable. One of these, of course, is a roof over your head. Another obvious one is furniture. I place decorative elements like wall art in this same category of essentials.

And when you have large walls to decorate, it’s the perfect opportunity to tie a room together in many ways.

The right pieces for your walls can introduce intrigue, personality, inspiration, and dimension to your abode. You’ll be amazed at how transformative one large statement piece (or display) can be.

The right pieces for your walls can introduce intrigue, personality, inspiration, and dimension to your abode.

If you have some blank walls to dress up, here are some large wall art ideas that hopefully inspire you in some attractive and unexpected ways, as well as ideas for how you might want to display them. 

Large wall art

If you have tall ceilings in your living room, you should think about hanging a big wall decor piece. With large oversized art, the most important thing is that it fits to scale, meaning it fits with the size of your wall.

If you have tall ceilings in your living room, you should think about hanging a big wall decor piece.
A large attractive painting can tie a room together beautifully.

Bring the beach fun indoors

Why not hang a surfboard?

If you live by the coast or like beachy home design, why not hang a surfboard?  A simple design can nail the look without going over the top.  

A colorful mix of a few surfboards create fun large decor.

Make light with mirrors

One of the best wall decor ideas for living rooms is to hang multiple mirrors. When placed across from a window, you double the amount of light while creating the illusion of a larger space.  

Open up a space by hanging multiple mirrors.

Gallery walls (and the Rule of Threes)

In the world of interior design, the rule of threes suggests that groups of three (or other odd numbers) are more attractive to the eye than even numbers. You can embrace this concept in your living room by hanging a three-piece framed art set. 

In the world of interior design, the rule of threes suggests that groups of three (or other odd numbers) are more attractive to the eye than even numbers.

Murals & large maps

There are many wonderful artists who focus a good bit of their time painting incredible murals on the walls of art-loving homeowners. It’s important to select a style that is compatible with your interior decor and furnishings, and mural artists usually have wonderful suggestions once they see your space.

With painted murals, it's important to select a style that is compatible with your interior decor and furnishings

These days, murals are often created as panels that are adhesive and easily removable. And the styles available are lovely and astounding. Moody seascapes, bright abstracts, soothing watercolors – they’re all available in square, portrait, and landscape orientations.

These days, murals are often created as panels that are adhesive and easily removable.

I love maps! Large world maps make great wall art because they’re timeless, useful, and often come in versatile hues. What child wouldn’t love exploring the world in his or her bedroom? These can be painted by a muralist or bought as wallpapers, stick-on shapes, or removable printed murals.

Large world maps make great wall art because they’re timeless, useful, and often come in versatile hues.

Go bright, bold, geometric

For a high-impact dining nook, consider hanging a larger piece with lots of bold colors, geometric shapes, and endless details you’ll want to admire over the years.

Bright, bold, geometric art is the focal point of the room.

Set against simple but striking black furniture, this large-scale, kaleidoscopic piece is clearly meant to be the focal point of the room.

Lighted wall art

Think outside the bulb with lighted wall art. Take a look at how this battery-powered shadowbox showcases natural birch branches with a subtle glow.  

This lighted wall art is definitely thinking outside of the box.

Try a tapestry

An easy way to cover a large amount of space is by choosing a colorful tapestry to hang above your furniture.

An easy way to cover a large amount of space is by choosing a colorful tapestry to hang above your furniture.

While there are endless patterns and designs to choose from, selecting a colorful option can change the vibe of an entire space. This particular piece is playful, and the wrinkled texture draws your attention in an unexpected way.

This tapestry is playful, and the wrinkled texture draws your attention in an unexpected way.

Repurpose your rug

You can often find wall art inspiration in the most unexpected places. Rugs can tie different elements of a room together, but rather than laying one on the floor, try hanging it up on the wall instead.

The textured, woven design of the rug in this room is perfectly contrasted by the white wall behind it, allowing it to be viewed and admired in a brand new way.

The textured, woven design of the rug in this room is perfectly contrasted by the white wall behind it, allowing it to be viewed and admired in a brand new way.

There are so many ways to beautify your large walls with art of all kinds! And what’s shown here is just the tip of the iceberg. If you’d like to explore any of these approaches further, let me know and together, we can determine the best kind of art for your space.

I’m easy to reach – you can choose a contact method right below this blog post, or click this “contact” link. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com, and, of course, you can always call me anytime at (407) 743-2399. You can also click here to send me a message.

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Vining Ivy, 2023 color of the year.

The 2023 Color of the Year from PPG and Glidden

Both the Glidden and PPG paint brands chose the on-trend teal for their joint 2023 color of the year selection.

Vining Ivy is the 2023 color of the year

PPG announced its 2023 Color of the Year, Vining Ivy. Color experts at the company say the “bluish-greenish-something-in-betweenish” hue is as adaptable as its botanical namesake and intertwines bold blue and refined green to create a captivating color symbolic of deep water.

Vining Ivy is moody for 2023.

“Consumers are seeking to simplify in this post-COVID era, as the past two years have shed a new light on the importance of serenity and little moments,” says Ashley McCollum, Glidden color expert. “Vining Ivy embodies this vibe perfectly. It is energizing yet grounding, and it works in literally any space.”

Vining Ivy is a very calming color

The new teal tone can be used to set a calming mood in spaces, as its blue communicates feelings of tranquility while the emerald evokes feelings of balance. When paired together, these two undertones create an ultra-rich color that has us “in our feels” as we cautiously emerge from the pandemic.

Vining Ivy adds depth to an accent wall.

In a residential setting, the color can be used for an interior or an exterior. For an interior, the experts see it used on full wall settings for a dramatic yet calming space, or as an accent wall to add personality. It can be dressed up with gold accents and white trim for a more glamorous look.

As an exterior, it adds plenty of curb appeal and personality to the body of a home, or as a front door color to compliment colorful landscaping.

The 2023 color of the year is moody and elegant

Vining Ivy for the kitchen.

“Those who love this moody hue but are still feeling in-betweenish on how to bring it into their space can treat themselves to the understated elegance of a teal accent wall or serve up a statement by featuring Vining Ivy on their kitchen cabinetry,” adds McCollum. “Even the most modest spaces can benefit from the teal treatment. For those short on square footage but big on style, we recommend using this rich hue as bold contrast to a neutral palette, making a petite room feel plush.”

Vining Ivy adds elegance to a bathroom.

If this new color for 2023 has inspired you, and you’d like to see how to incorporate it into your spaces, I’m always available for consultations If this sounds appealing, and we can talk more about how Vining Ivy can enhance your interiors. 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.

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Gold luxury feature wall

Feature Wall Ideas For A Luxury Bedroom Design

With the proliferation of Instagrammable mural designs as well as Pinterest-worthy wallpaper, having a unique feature wall integrated into your space is going to be a big part of the interior design trends of 2022 and beyond. Explore the luxurious works of world-class artists and craftsmen creating one-of-a-kind feature walls, curated by Artelier, a collaborative art consultancy providing high-end custom feature walls and other artistic treatments for residences and luxury yachts. Here are a few feature wall designs from their Artist Walls collection.

1. The Woven Abstract – This mural features sweeping shapes that reflect light and float through the air like metallic veils, winding around and overlaying each other. The pop of color works well in an otherwise muted bedroom.

The sweeping, woven abstract feature wall.

2. The Grey and Gold – This feature wall has been designed to be a subtle, calm, and luxurious experience reflecting the palette and atmosphere of the room. Working closely with our artists on each project Artelier carefully adapts the walls to reflect their environment.

The gray and gold feature wall

3. Suede Silk & Leather – Renowned for her couture-standard work and exquisite detailing, which alludes to Saville Row tailoring. The artist describes her work as “tailoring for walls”, which effortlessly brings together fashion and interiors.

Suede, silk and leather feature wall.

4. Nuno Silk – This feature wall was made using an ancient textile technique known as Nuno Silk. The artist blends natural wool, mohair, merino fibers, and silk by hand. Through a gentle washing process, the wool fibers open and become meshed with the silk, transforming the separate raw materials into one lightweight non-woven fabric.

Nuno silk feature wall

5. The Gold Mural – Artelier is working in collaboration with artist Michelle Gagliano to produce these hand-painted feature walls which are made of natural pigment and gold leaf. These murals are eye-catching while still blending into the space they occupy.

Gold luxury feature wall

6. Abstract Mural – Last but certainly not least we have this extra subtle feature wall that blends perfectly into the space it occupies. If you are after subdued luxury then this might just be the perfect design for your bedroom.

Abstract mural feature wall.

Adding a unique feature wall to your bedroom doesn’t have to be complicated, and can truly enhance your living space. Working in collaboration with artists in all genres and styles Artelier designs completely bespoke work that reflects the current design aesthetic a client seeks for their home. If you are interested in discovering more you can visit the Artelier website here.

These are fabulous creations and I hope you like them as much as I do! If you’d like to explore these treatments further, let me know and we can determine the best approach for your space.

I’m easy to reach – you can choose a contact method right below this blog post, or click this “contact” link. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com, and, of course, you can always call me anytime at (407) 743-2399.

Let’s connect and discuss your vision!

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Molding and trim create a beautiful, stylish accent wall.

9 Accent Wall Molding and Trim Design Ideas

Are you interested in elevating the look of your accent walls? By creating intricate and thoughtful designs out of molding and trim, it’s a simple task to take your accent wall to the next level. Here are nine accent wall molding and trim design ideas to get those ideas flowing:

1. Use a Subtle Hand with Minimal Chair Rails

The molding added to this accent wall enhances the look of the baseboards and trim along the windows.

The designer for this beautiful room utilized a flat, angular molding to create a chair rail that perfectly accentuates the minimal aesthetic. This choice provides a break in the taupe-colored accent wall, adding a subtle touch of personality.

Notice how the molding enhances the look of the baseboards and trim along the windows. Each piece adds energy to the room without pulling focus or overwhelming the design. This is a perfect choice for any dining room, where family, friends, and guests can gather to eat, socialize, and celebrate.

2. Elevate the Look of Your Fireplace

Molding elevates the look of your fireplace.

This living room exemplifies the idea of an accent wall by focusing all the attention on the fireplace. This is a fixture meant to grab and hold your attention as soon as you walk into the room.

The built-in woodgrain shelves pop in contrast to the white shiplap covering the fireplace wall. The crown molding used at the top and bottom of the wall accentuates the fireplace, making it stand out even more. Instead of a typical wooden mantel, they’ve mounted a flat-screen television that perfectly matches the width and deep black of the fireplace. This living room belongs to a family that entertains in style.

3. Create Sharp Angles with Dark Molding

It’s impossible not to notice how well the chocolate trim around the door perfectly complements the courtyard green of the accent wall.

Let’s challenge the idea that molding and trim need to be white. This room utilizes molding with chocolate tones to cut a sharp angle along the edge of the ceiling, floors, and windows. This pairs well with the industrialized light fixtures and darker design elements throughout this kitchen.

It’s impossible not to notice how well the chocolate trim around the door perfectly complements the courtyard green of the accent wall. The choice to keep this color uniform allows the accent wall to pop. Everything about this room feels modern and luxurious.

4. Create Floor-to-Ceiling Panels

The choice to use molding to create panels from the floor to the ceiling took this standard accent wall and transformed it into a showstopper.

The choice to use molding to create panels from the floor to the ceiling allowed this designer to take a standard accent wall and transform it into a showstopper. The molding is also utilized on the non-accent walls, creating a striped texture to accentuate the décor.

The best decision here, by far, was the decision to keep everything the same color. This allows the molding to create contrast with shadows. Depending on the lighting and where you’re standing, the panels will have a different look and depth.

5. Transform Your Ceilings and Walls

This design utilizes molding to create a focal point that draws your attention to the accent wall and fireplace, which perfectly complements the design aesthetic of the built-ins on the adjacent wall.

Aside from the blue steel accent wall, this room is packed with intricate design techniques that create an awe-inspiring and cozy living space. The molding accents on the ceiling and along the top of the accent wall create a sense of dimension that is anything but typical.

This design creates a focal point that draws your attention to the accent wall and fireplace, which perfectly complements the design aesthetic of the built-ins on the adjacent wall.

6. Create the Look of Picture Frames

Create the look of picture frames.

Dark accent walls are quickly becoming a hallmark of modern design aesthetics. They draw your attention immediately and offer a splash of personality without making the room feel too dark.

But why stop there? The designer of this living space transformed the green accent wall by creating the look of empty picture frames. They used actual picture frames to create this effect, but the same can be done with molding. In fact, if you want the edges more uniform and the sizes more customizable, molding is the ideal choice.

7. Embrace a Chic and Minimal Office Design

This accent wall is cut in half with an elevated chair rail.

Less is more with a minimal office design. This accent wall is cut in half with an elevated chair rail. This is a smart choice because the room still feels warm, bright, and inviting, even with the darker shades of blue.

The designer of this room decided to take the chair rail concept a step further by adding molding to create panels along the wall. This makes it almost feel like the room is split into three sections. This is both intriguing and modern, but also timeless.

8. Utilize Thin Molding to Create Narrow Panels

Utilize thin molding to create narrow panels.

While we’re into the idea of revolutionizing accent walls, let’s focus on a different type of paneling. You don’t have to use thick molding to create this effect. In fact, you can use thinner strips of molding to create narrow panels that look both expensive and sophisticated.

This navy accent wall is the definition of luxury. The thin panels give a touch of personality to the wall without drawing too much attention. The white baseboards highlight the accent wall, drawing warmth and brightness from the rest of the room.

9. Get Creative with Intricate Molding Designs

Get creative with intricate molding designs.

No rule says you can’t have fun with your molding and trim designs. This room is a prime example of that. By creating an unconventional striped pattern along this juniper-colored wall, you immediately feel like this room is ripped straight from a modern interior design catalog.

Adding a touch of nature to this design aesthetic, the rich dark color of the accent wall perfectly complements the plants, woodgrain, and wicker basket. Pairing it all with the industrial black light fixture and grey metal headboard makes this bedroom absolutely stunning.

What’s Your Design Style?

After seeing all these inspiring design ideas, you’re probably itching to do something with your own accent walls. If you don’t know which molding or trim to choose or you’re unsure of how to get started, I’m here to help you determine the molding and trim styles that are perfect for your design aesthetic. I can show you all kinds of design treatments that would work best for your space, so just let me know if what you’ve seen here has inspired you. I’m easy to reach – you can choose a contact method right below this blog post, or click this “contact” link. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com, and, of course, you can always call me anytime at (407) 743-2399.

Let’s connect and discuss your vision!

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Crown molding for bathrooms.

Adding Crown Molding for Bathroom Luxury

When homeowners think about elevating their interior designs, crown molding often comes to mind. It’s an ideal highlight feature that can be used in almost any part of the home to add a touch of luxury and stylish appeal. However, people don’t often associate crown molding with bathrooms. Crown molding can add luxury and style to a bathroom.

After all, bathrooms are known for slick walls and waterproof tile floors, so most people think that crown molding doesn’t fit that aesthetic. Surprisingly, they are wrong.

What is Crown Molding?

Crown molding creates a seamless transition between the top of a wall and its ceiling.

Crown molding is a decorative molding used to highlight and create a seamless transition between the top of a wall and its ceiling. It can also be installed along the edges of windows, doors, cabinets, staircases, and more. It’s the ideal addition to any room’s design because it adds a touch of sophistication and flair without pulling away focus.

Why is Crown Molding a Perfect Addition to Your Bathroom?

It’s a misconception that crown molding is just for luxurious mansions, regal rooms, and high cathedral ceilings. Crown molding can be used to elevate any room’s interior design, and that quality extends to bathrooms, as well.

Crown molding doesn't overwhelm, it enhances.

In the latest popular design trends, I’ve seen crown molding used in bathrooms much more often, which makes a lot of sense. Bathrooms are meant to be tranquil and relaxing, and there’s no better way to help create a beautiful and calming space than with elegant crown molding.

7 Awe-Inspiring Crown Molding Bathroom Designs

If that’s not enough to make the case that crown molding is an excellent addition to your bathroom, here are some attractive design inspirations. Expert designers throughout the world use crown molding to amp up their aesthetics and bring their designs to life.

Here are seven gorgeous bathrooms that perfectly utilize crown molding to create a luxurious and awe-inspiring design:

1. A Luxurious Master Bath with Crowned Vanities

Crown molding in a lovely neutral bathroom setting

This bathroom is tailored specifically for a trendsetter. Guests don’t often see master bathrooms, but that doesn’t mean they should be drab. In fact, quite the opposite is true.

Here, crown molding was used to highlight the vanities, to create a perfect contrast for the opulent lighting fixtures, stunning furnishings, and neutral color palette.

2. A Gorgeous Vanity with His and Her Sinks

Crown molding elevates this lovely bathroom vanity.

Here is another example of how crown molding can elevate the look of bathroom vanities. In this bathroom, you can see the molding carried through the overall design and into the walls behind the vanity.

However, don’t take your eyes off the prize. This elegant bathroom vanity is an ideal centerpiece that features matching his and her sinks, soft lighting, and minimal floral accents.

3. A Neutral Frame for Beautiful Wallpaper

No wallpaper is complete without crown moulding to appropriately frame it.

Nothing spells luxury quite like an ornate wallpaper, and no wallpaper is complete without crown molding to appropriately frame it. This opulent master bathroom has all of the eye-catching elements kept in perspective.

Neutral-colored crown molding was used, so it didn’t detract from the luxurious design, which allows the wallpaper and other intricate design elements to shine.

4. A Simple and Sophisticated Use of White-on-White Molding

The white-on-white crown moulding adds a touch of intrigue and dimension without pulling focus.

Sometimes, less is more, and that’s certainly the case with this beautifully minimal bathroom. The white-on-white crown molding adds a touch of intrigue and dimension without grabbing focus.

It allowed the designer to add a little pop of color that really brings this bathroom to life. Paired with brass fixtures, modern art, and a cute rug, this bathroom feels like an ideal place to relax and unwind.

5. A Modern Twist on a Classic Bathroom Design

The true highlight here is the white crown molding around the ceiling

Shiny stone floors, a huge soaking tub, and white furniture accents create a beautiful space. The blueish-grey walls also add a subtle touch of intrigue, but the true highlight here is the white crown molding around the ceiling. Paired with a gorgeous walk-in shower and windows for lots of sunlight, this bathroom is lovely, don’t you think?

6. A Hauntingly Beautiful Bathroom Inspired by Dark Colors

Beautiful dark crown molding makes an opulent bathroom statement.

Black, red, and white are beautifully combined here. Notice how the dark crown molding perfectly matches the tiled floor, vanity, and door frames.

This bathroom is at once sensual and incredibly luxurious. It’s the ideal master bath for an adventurous homeowner who values style and elegance.

7. A New Take on the Classic Black and White Aesthetic

The black wallpaper, checkered floors, and white crown molding make for an exceptional bathroom design.

This bathroom is simultaneously inspiring, gorgeous, and unexpected. While the black and white aesthetic is a classic, this bathroom turns that idea on its head. The black wallpaper, checkered floors, and white crown molding make for a unique bathroom design.

And this is just the tip of the iceberg showcasing how crown molding can inject luxury and style into your bathroom. And why stop there? It’s perfect for almost any space in your home. Be sure to check out my other blog post about molding and trim throughout your home – click here to read it. I’d love to show you all the crown molding treatments that would work best for your bathroom, or any other space, so just let me know if what you’ve seen here inspires you. I’m easy to reach – you can choose a contact method right below this blog post, or click this “contact” link. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com, and, of course, you can always call me anytime at (407) 743-2399.

Let’s connect and discuss your vision!

Choose one of the 3 easy options: schedule a call with me, call me right now, or if you’re just browsing, let me email you my newsletter.

Schedule a Call with Me

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I'll call you then.
I look forward to discussing your vision!

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I look forward to discussing your vision!

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Cellular or honeycomb shades have many attractive features, and made even more attractive with advances in technology and fabrication.

Cellular Shades: Attractive and Efficient Solutions

Versatile, attractive, and energy-efficient, cellular shades (also known as honeycomb shades because the materials used to make them have a unique cell shape) are top of mind with many designers these days. Here, manufacturers are discussing what’s trending with this window treatment product.

The functionality and style of cellular shades make them a perfect solution for home and office

“The endless functional features and stylish appearance make honeycomb shades a perfect solution for both home and office,” says Jop Vos, managing director of Coulisse North and South America.

Control levels of natural light in any window setting with cellular shades.

Honeycomb shades are made from one continuous piece of fabric, fold up along crisp pleats and provide the highest level of insulation because of their honeycomb-shaped cells.

The unique honeycomb cells in cellular shades allows for great energy efficiency.

New colors, materials, and technology have cellular shades trending right now

Add in new colors, fabrications, and control options and cellular shades become even more on-trend.

“The demand for woven cellular shades is growing,” notes Kara Roberts, merchandising director of Smith & Noble.

Woven materials are increasing the popularity of cellular shades.

Roberts attributes the increased interest in cellular shades to several factors, including premium fade-resistant fabrics, the white backing that gives street-facing windows a cohesive appearance; the fashion-forward colors, the rich texture and sense of tactility because of the honeycomb cell construction, and the opportunity to secure flame-resistant fabrics and materials that are GREENGUARD certified.

Varying levels of light-filtering make them unique window treatment solutions

A specific cellular shade fabrication that is popular for home use is blackout which offers better sleep and more privacy. The ability of cellular shades to offer four different levels of opacity and varying levels of light-filtering is also what makes them unique.

With their versatility, Adam Skalman, vice president of sales at The Shade Store, says the various styles of honeycomb shades allow customers to easily customize them, which taps into the growing trend for the expression of personal styles and aesthetics.

Cellular shades are a perfect window treatment solution to situations with varying window sizes.

And because cellular shades offer a variety of honeycomb cell sizes, they also can accommodate various window sizes and climate issues.

Cellular shades can provide significant energy savings

“Large windows tend to use larger cell sizes and double-cell styles are often used to maximize energy savings,” explains John Weinstock, executive vice president of marketing at Graber.

And, over time, the double-cell shades’ insulation offers savings on heating and cooling costs.

Cellular shades offer a variety of cell sizes, providing options for greater energy savings.

Motorization and cordless technology make these window treatments even more attractive

And, according to Skalman, another important trend that cellular shades is capitalizing on is motorization and automation. “There is a desire to be able to effortlessly control natural light,” he acknowledges.

Motorization is easy to implement and works effortlessly with honeycomb shades. And this emphasis on cordless technology is in line with the window covering industry’s goal of enhancing child and pet safety by continuing to eliminate lift cords.

Cordless, motorized cellular honeycomb shades.

“Improving (the industry’s) lift systems in order to offer larger sizes in cordless and motorization is a goal of ours,” says Roberts.

Cellular shades create calm, inviting spaces with control of natural light

And with the continual growth of the work-from-home trend, it is essential to create home office environments that are perfect for videoconferencing with conducive lighting and attractive backdrops.

“Calm, inviting spaces with great light control are key features of a home office, making cellular shades an ideal solution,” emphasizes Weinstock.

Cellular shades offer many options and styles for a designer to create calm and inviting spaces.

If cellular shades sound like a great solution for your spaces, let’s have a conversation

Cellular shades are such an attractive window treatment, and as indicated in this article, there have been many exciting updates in their fabrication. New colors, materials, and technology are making this a wonderful window treatment solution for just about any space.

If I can show you some examples and styles that I know will inspire you, please let me know. Just 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.

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Patterns & colors abound in new window covering trends.

Window Covering Trends for 2022

From the International Window Covering Expo held in April 2022

From customized designs and new colors to increased motorization and technology, read what some manufacturers are predicting for the future.

Expectations of traditional window treatments have changed due to the massive adjustment in the functionality of offices, health care, and other commercial spaces. Additionally, over the last two years, homeowners have also shifted to re-creating rooms and practical spaces to adapt to working from home. This has certainly led to an increased demand for motorization and other smart home technology, as well as personalized custom design, all of which are on a growth trajectory and constantly evolving.

Technology and motorization are big trends for home window treatments in 2022.

Motorization and Roller Shades

While trends in colors, fabrics, and window covering styles are always developing in response to cultural, environmental, and other influences, some trends continue to remain at the forefront, especially motorization. Steve Wright, CEO and president of Forest Drapery, foresees “continued growth in motorized window treatments, especially in the roller shade category.” Tim Sanders, president of SmartPad Pro, concurs. “Roller shades and motorization will continue to be the mainstream product in the hospitality and commercial fields.”

Roller shades and motorization will continue to be the mainstream product in the hospitality and commercial fields.

Where roller shades were more predominantly specified for commercial spaces in the past, they are now a must-have for certain rooms in residential properties, including, but not limited to, the home office as the shift to working from home continues to grow. “Interior roller shades specified with blackout fabrics will continue to emerge as a necessity for homeowners,” says Market Manager Gregg Terry of Phifer.

Window Covering Trends: Performance and Color

In addition to continued growth in automation and the increased use of commercial window coverings in home residences, charting the benefits and performance qualities with customers becomes even more essential in 2022. Marketing Director Holly Bridwell of Mermet Sun Control Textiles USA stresses the importance of elevating the fabric selection process with clients by making the interaction a “design consultation on performance—not only about fabric aesthetics and color,” and adds that blackouts, notably in the popular gray, charcoal and white families, will continue to trend. Weighing in on color trends, Wright also notes that “color choices are varied, yet fabrics will be trending toward neutrals and textures.” Elegant and versatile white, beige and gray tones, as well as textured blackout and light-filtering color-coordinating options, will carry on as a widespread choice in both residential and hospitality environments.

Elegant and versatile white, beige and gray tones, as well as textured blackout and light-filtering color-coordinating options, will carry on as a widespread choice in both residential and hospitality environments

Color Matching, New Aesthetics, and Customization

While grays and neutrals may be here to stay—at least for now—designers continue to experiment with color, including greens, rich blues, and other bold hues. These colors are often mixed with innumerous textures for a more engaging presentation. Ryan Crist, director of sales and marketing at Texton, explains how end-users and designers are increasingly seeking “exact color match” and “close pairing” of shades with drapery. “End users want to customize a drapery color to match an existing paint color or textile swatch.” They will continue their demand for customized products and color match to ensure their shades are unique and personalized.

Nevertheless, the overall minimalist, modern and casual aesthetic continues to be a fashionable choice for both commercial and residential spaces. Mikala Moller, vice president of marketing at Rowley, agrees that trend will persist. “From a design perspective, that aesthetic creates comfort and harmony in a space. It is also a trend that has had longevity in window treatment design with streamlined shades, grommet and ripple fold draperies, and plated metal and acrylic drapery hardware styles. These will continue to hold strong in 2022.”

On the other hand, the desire for increased personalization and layering of design elements is notable. From this movement, there has been a resurgence of maximalism and layered looks that tell a story, inspired by cultural influences like “House of Gucci.” It’s driving heightened demand for more traditional window treatment styles in soft shades, drapery embellishments, swags, and hand-painted and mixed-media drapery hardware.

There is a heightened demand for more traditional window treatment styles in soft shades, drapery embellishments, swags, and hand-painted and mixed-media drapery hardware.

Commercial and Residential Crossover Trends

Interestingly, design trends from the commercial world are now making their way into residential design. “This includes tonal textures, as well as large abstract graphic prints that are often macro-focused,” offers Crist. Additional trends from the commercial world are making their way to residential spaces, including more emphasis on bringing the outside and natural design aspects into textile, shade, and furniture design, which is often referred to as “biophilia.” Sanders suggests that the industry will continue to see an “increase in many architectural designs creating spaces with more natural light and interior experiences with the outdoor in mind.”

Natural materials and textures are big in window shade coverings trending for 2022.

All trends considered, with current supply chain disruptions, it is reasonable that some in the industry are uneasy but hopeful. Depending upon the type of window covering system, shortage or delay in shipment of critical components will continue in 2022. “These could be as minor as the chains or fasteners used in roller shades to coatings and paints used for fabrics or header boxes,” says Terry. Therefore, it is key is to manage expectations about availability and deadlines to maintain customers’ trust and ongoing business and referrals.

The Future of the Window Covering Industry

The window covering industry, like all industries, continues to advance sustainability awareness in its products. And for many companies showcasing products at the IWCE show, this has been an ongoing initiative, not necessarily a new trend. Wright cites Forest Drapery Hardware’s longstanding commitment to sustainable sourcing. “Since the introduction of our wood drapery hardware more than 25 years ago, these products have been sourced from managed forests, a practice that will continue into the future.” Forest Drapery’s tracks and decorative metal hardware are also made with high-quality materials to extend the life of their products, reducing waste.

An expanded focus on technology is also critical to the industry’s future increase of new revenue and value-producing opportunities. Bridwell contends that growth will come from an intensified attention to digital marketing and sampling as well as leveraging data for growth. “In-person and live virtual design consultations will support higher prices and margins over DIY.” Judy Wong, president of Senbesta, agrees that having fabric swatch samples readily available to share with clients is essential, no matter how you meet. “Whether that be at an in-person meeting or a virtual meeting, by sending them a few 8 x 11 swatches by mail, these samples allow your client to see and feel the product up close.”

Many different material styles, colors, textures and patterns continue to make the industry grow by leaps and bounds.

Likewise, collaboration with other professionals through social media and other virtual tools is of the utmost importance for the window covering industry. Over the last two years, the pandemic has put some hurdles in the way that people connect with each other, yet the industry has continued to thrive. Wong raves about how “refreshing” it has been seeing professionals come together on LinkedIn and Facebook to share information. “I am amazed by how quickly the industry is adapting to changes and how engaged our industry has become with social media. I think it is wonderful to see this community supporting each other and interacting on these platforms.”

Finally, the manufacturing and distribution of window coverings and accessories worldwide is an unquestionable facet of its future. “The window covering industry is expected to continue to grow worldwide with customer growth mainly coming from the U.S. and Asia,” acknowledges Sanders. Regardless of their global reach, companies in the industry who stay focused on offering new or innovative products, providing customer-focused solutions, and offering the latest advances in user-friendly technology should be positioned best for the future marketplace.

Layering different window treatment styles, colors and patterns is trending for 2022.

If You Like Some of These Window Covering Trends

If you’ve enjoyed what you’ve seen here (and I can assure you, this is just the tip of the iceberg), I’m always available for a consultation to help you determine the best kind of window coverings that would be best for your needs, lifestyle, and goals. I can guide you in choosing the perfect window treatment solution for what you might be envisioning. If this sparks your interest, let’s talk more about window coverings – I guarantee you’ll get very inspired by all the possibilities available. You can choose a contact method right below this blog post, or click this “contact” link. You can also email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com, and, of course, you can always call me anytime at (407) 743-2399.

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