interior designer

Warm tones, expanded monochrome color palettes, and lovely asymmetry are some key floral design trends for 2022.

Floral Design for Home Decor: Trends for 2022-2023

From single, lonely monstera leaves to luxurious compositions of roses and peonies – some are wondering how to decorate their home with flowers in a modern and stylish way? Let’s explore some favorite trends of floral design for 2022-2023.

The key themes of recent floral trends are seasonality, minimalism, practical solutions, calm and romantic palette. There are fewer and fewer bulky, lush bouquets in interiors. These days, florists are preferring monochrome and simplicity. Practical and durable compositions of dried flowers, grasses, and artificial plants have become favorites of interior designers lately. Let’s dive a bit deeper into what else is currently relevant in home floral design.

Warmth And Tenderness in Floral Design

Warm floral colors are welcoming.

Who doesn’t want to plunge into these warm, inviting colors? Modern florists are increasingly using shades of a warm, earthy palette: light coral, mustard, brown, peach, orange, dark pink, flesh. One of the most desired colors of 2022, according to the choice of the Pantone Institute, is Living Coral, their color of the year for 2019 – its warmth and vibrancy have lingered on.

Fresh peonies of this shade, together with orange berries and brown lisianthuses, look very gentle and cozy. Such bouquets bring an extra degree of warmth and comfort to the house. Visually, earthy shades add a bit of depth.

Guests From Fields And Gardens

Enhance your arrangements with home-grown beauties.

The eco-trend has not spared floral design either. Small, modest bouquets with the inclusion of field and garden flowers are welcome: daisies, cornflowers, zinnias, asters, marigolds, etc. With the right approach, they can turn out to be chic compositions that are not inferior in aesthetics to proud roses and pampered orchids.

In a bouquet with expensive, varietal flowers, garden and field plants will remove unnecessary pathos and give the composition a zest, relying on the tenderness and beauty of the wild.

Beautiful Asymmetry

The fashionable asymmetrical bouquet is well suited for modern styles

Floristry has lifted asymmetrical design from the world of catwalks, where models showed extravagant asymmetrical outfits. Now it is no longer necessary to carefully align the head of the bouquet: on one side, the stems may well protrude more than the others, or the color scheme may be brighter than on the other side. Such unusual compositions are quite ready to become an art object in interior decor.

The fashionable asymmetrical bouquet is well suited for modern styles: eclecticism, postmodernism, avant-garde, fusion, pop art, grunge, etc. Such compositions will definitely attract attention, so they can be placed on key areas in the interior.

Herbs in Floral Design? Of Course

In minimalist interiors, you'll often find arrangements composed entirely of decorative herbs or even single leaves.

From ordinary ears of corn to South American pampas – what kind of herbs are not used in bouquets these days? This makes the compositions appear lush and rich in texture. Many traders in the field of floristry note an increase in interest in herbs in 2022 and predict the further development of this trend in the next year.

In minimalist interiors, you’ll often find arrangements composed entirely of decorative herbs or even single leaves. They look stylish and unusual. Trending herbal plants for 2022-20: wild oats, palm trees, miscanthus, haretail, brunia, fern, ruscus, etc.

The popularity of the South American pampas is growing. Designers are utilizing pampas grass to create bold, voluminous compositions that are sometimes even suspended from the ceiling. The grass dries well and can last in this form for more than one year.

Refined Monochrome

"analog" or related shades: for example, pink hydrangeas along with purple carnations, coral peonies, and fuchsia bush roses.

It’s not about a bouquet of roses of the same color. The idea is about “analog” or related shades: for example, pink hydrangeas along with purple carnations, coral peonies, and fuchsia bush roses. And for freshness, you can add white flowers and greens.

There can be many options for such a mono-mix. Thanks, perhaps, to the smooth iridescence of one color, or adjacent shades and textures of others, eyes will always find something to delight in. The compositions are restrained and touching. With the help of an expanded monochrome floral palette, you can soften contrasting tones in an interior and make a smoother visual transition.

Oriental Zen

Asian influence can create an oasis of calm in floral designs.

The culture of the East has been a source of inspiration to countless designers for decades and decades now. Japanese minimalism has firmly taken its place in contemporary interior design along with the sophisticated art of ikebana. Ornate and at the same time laconic combinations of colors and natural materials have a timeless, sophisticated appeal.

When exploring ikebana, you’ll also find bonsai – another echo of the culture of Ancient Japan. It is not genetic dwarfing but is the art of keeping a tree small enough to be container-grown while otherwise fostered to have a mature appearance. This style is loved by many modern designers and included in projects in minimalist, oriental, neoclassical, Scandinavian, and even industrial styles. Western florists have recognized the apricot mini-tree as a recent big favorite.

Practical Dried Flowers

Dried flowers in floral design can make a lovely arrangement.

A few years ago dried flowers occasionally supplemented fresh bouquets, but now mixes of dried flowers have become a fashionable interior decor treatment, which is likely to continue into 2023. You can probably imagine small and large bouquets with dried lavender, poppies, eucalyptus, oats, yarrow, ears of wheat, etc. providing visual aesthetics on windowsills, shelves, and coffee tables.

Despite the fragility and lack of aroma, dried flowers are more economical, do not require special care, and can delight the eye much longer than natural flowers. And if they are placed behind glass and hung on the wall, then their service life is practically unlimited. Some even add dried tropical fruits to the composition of dried flowers. In addition to classic vases, dried bouquets can be beautifully hung, covered with a glass bell, assembled in a wicker basket, mug, or wall panel.

Hot Tropics

Orchids are very popular tropicals in floral design.

Echoing the trend of tropical flora featured in decoration and decor items, floral design experts suggest including exotic plants in home interiors: all kinds of palm trees, orchids, frangipani, succulents, citrus fruits.

Orchids are increasingly being placed in clear plastic or glass containers to expose intricate root plexuses. Thanks to this, the plant looks more natural, and the container does not visually burden the interior (although the right vase or container can absolutely make a setting).

Silk Flowers

Modern technology makes artificial flowers indistinguishable from living arrangements.

Today artificial flowers, like dried flowers, are not bad manners. Thanks to high technology and modern materials, latex and silicone plants are increasingly difficult to distinguish from real ones. International traders have noted this year an unprecedented demand for artificial flowers to decorate private homes, shop windows, and buildings. Aesthetics have become much more practical.

The Finishing Factor

Vases and containers with bold shapes and volumetric geometric patterns will fit perfectly into modern interiors.

And finally, let’s talk about containers for plants. Classic, minimalist glass and ceramic vases are still relevant. But there is growing interest in substantial containers made of concrete, brass, copper. A light touch of aging on vases is in fashion, which is achieved with the help of special patinas and other processes applied to the material.

Vases and containers with bold shapes and volumetric geometric patterns will fit perfectly into modern interiors. For Christmas, florists are predicting a boom for copper leaves and 1970s-style hexagonal vases.

I’m Always Here to Help with Fresh Floral Design Ideas

Floral designs can bring art, style, color and eye appeal into your spaces.

If you’d like to spruce up your interiors with some trending floral styling, I’m always available for a consultation to help you decide on the best arrangements, colors, and materials to enhance your home or business. There are so many options and always an abundance of solutions for any decor need.

If that sounds like a plan, let’s talk more about decorating your spaces with current floral design trends. 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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7 Big Interior Color Trends for 2022

Here are some lovely interior color trends for 2022 – and how to use them in your home. You may have noticed, we’ve been moving towards a mindset of wellbeing lately. From calming neutrals countering the turbulence of the pandemic to cheerful and optimistic shades, this selection reflects that healing trend and incorporates aspects of wellbeing into the home.

Colors resonate in distinct ways for different people, and while some gravitate towards calming neutrals to counter the upheaval of the past couple of years, others choose to immerse themselves in positive, vivid colors, reaching for optimism. Frankly, I think all of it works to move things (us and all that is wrapped up in our lives) forward with a big smile to the future.

Dulux’s Bright Skies is a fresh and airy blue, Benjamin Moore chose a gentle shade of sage, while Farrow & Ball predicts a cheerful rainbow, from the spicy yellow Babouche No.223 to the lively Breakfast Room Green No.81. All of these make that healing statement of wellbeing for this 2022 year.

Here are some tips on how you can make the most of these 2022 interior color trends in your home.

1. Babouche – the sunny yellow

Named after the distinctive color of the leather slippers worn by men in Morocco, this shade of yellow can be described as ‘subdued sunshine.’

In 2022, we’ll relish brighter colors that herald a return to normality. The sunny and uncomplicated Babouche is perfect for embracing this – while bold, it never feels garish or overpowering.

Named after the distinctive color of the leather slippers worn by men in Morocco, this shade of yellow can be described as ‘subdued sunshine.’ Despite its bold hue, it’s not overly bright or overpowering, making it perfect for a larger room, where its cheerfulness will intensify. In terms of décor, opt for more minimalist companions, such as simple line drawings, or unobtrusive bright shades.

This buttery yellow can help to brighten a space with limited natural light, and when you consider the color wheel, this particular shade would sit well with a pale blue or a soft pink/red.

2. School House White – the updated neutral

Ideal for a background on which to feature dramatic, largescale artworks, or even vibrant, statement rugs, it’s hard to go wrong with this particular shade of white.

A soft, off-white shade, School House White is designed to look like white in a shaded area. Muted, timeless, and comfortingly familiar, this shade evokes the nostalgia of old schoolhouses. Due to its grounded, unassuming hue, this shade would pair easily with virtually any other color. Ideal for a background on which to feature dramatic, largescale artworks, or even vibrant, statement rugs, it’s hard to go wrong with this particular shade of white.

This shade will also amplify the power of Babouche if you like the idea of combining multiple 2022 interior color trends.

3. Bright Skies – the hopeful blue

This blue shade has the potential to be the new grey.

This airy and fresh shade breathes new life into any space. It will be a game-changer when people use this tone on their ceilings, with Marianne Shillingford, Creative Director of Dulux, saying it makes the ceiling just ‘melt away.’ This hue is both uplifting and light, while simultaneously being soothing, familiar, and apt for a joyous safe haven. This selection by Dulux was influenced by the aftermath of the pandemic, with many of us craving freedom, expansion, and a return to nature.

This shade has the potential to be the new grey, in a turn towards color with less emphasis on neutrals.

4. Breakfast Room Green – the cheerful shade

This green shade complements plants, whether art-depicted, or real, and would work well to promote a sense of wellbeing within the home.

The most cheerful of Farrow & Ball’s greens – named after the east-facing rooms designed for languid mornings spent eating breakfast in the dawn light. This soft shade reflects the natural world we’ve often retreated to during the pandemic.

These last two years, many of us spent much of our time reconnecting with our gardens and falling back in love with nature. This shade complements plants, whether art-depicted, or real, and would work well to promote a sense of wellbeing within the home. Pair this shade with Stone Blue for a visual effect that is captivatingly familiar. Due to its calming nature, opt for artwork that speaks to wellbeing.

5. Incarnadine – the comforting red

This comforting shade of red would pair perfectly with warm woodwork and rustic gold touches.

Rich, warm, and oh-so-comforting, is Incarnadine. This shade combines traditional red while beckoning the spirit of the leisurely Mediterranean. This shade would pair perfectly with warm woodwork and rustic gold touches. Alternatively, angle it towards an edgy twist by pairing it with a bright white shade.

Heighten the contemporary feel in this glossy shade by combining it with a monochromatic palette, or go for opulence with plenty of velvets, deep forest greens or inky blues, and classic antique furniture.

6. October Mist – the palest green

A particularly calming color combination puts October Mist with deeper fern greens.

A soft grey-green, October Mist makes a great foundation color from which to build an earthy palette. Much like Breakfast Room Green, this shade encourages a reconnection with the great outdoors and is easy to introduce into your home.

October Mist does well in a farmhouse setting, combined with soft, nature-inspired tones – pale sky blues, a scorched earth red, or chalky whites. A particularly calming color combination puts October Mist with deeper fern greens.

7. Stone Blue – the vintage tone

Stone Blue - the vintage tone.

An appreciation of vintage style shows no sign of faltering in 2022, with the timeless Stone Blue by Farrow & Ball sitting alongside Dulux’s Bright Skies as the most on-trend blue shades.

Named after the indigo pigment imported in lumps during the 18th century, this warm and timeless blue can be used alongside other warm hues to create an inviting, vintage look. Alternatively, decorate with a cooler tone for a cleaner, more contemporary feel. Bonus points if you pair this shade with other simple and familiar colors that communicate that sense of folk and craftsmanship that is present throughout this palette.

Some very nice colors here, breathing new life into interiors looking for a refresh. Not all of the paints are easily available in the US, but there are a lot of workarounds and parallels. I just wanted you to see some lovely color trends making waves now. And, of course, I’m here to help you pull it all together and find your best personal palette for 2022.

If these colors have inspired you, just give me a call anytime at (407) 743-2399 or message me in the window below this blog, and we can explore some lovely, colorful territory 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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A fire pit is bound to be the centerpiece of many backyard gatherings

15 Fire Pit Ideas to Keep the Backyard Party Going

A fire pit is bound to be the centerpiece of many backyard gatherings.

When you have outdoor space, chances are you want to make the most of it, and fire pits are one lively way to create a focal point in your yard. Aside from the gorgeous ambiance they create and memories you can make around them, there’s also an option for everyone’s budget.

Plus, they can range from simple and temporary to elaborate and semi-permanent, depending on your needs. I can help you with any of these, and show you how to get the most bang for your buck.

  • You can keep it budget-friendly by going au naturel with stones and stumps for your fire pit and seating.
  • Design your fire pit area as you would a room and define the space with a stone or brick “rug.”
  • Throw pillows and cushions are the perfect way to cozy up a hard stone space.

1. Keep it budget-friendly (if you need to)

Stone pavers are simple and cost-effective.

A ring of stone pavers can serve as a simple, inexpensive fire pit. Fire pit designs don’t have to be fancy to be functional and beautiful. You can use what you have to make it happen. Perhaps a ring of large decorative rocks, bricks, cinder blocks, even a hole in your cement. Or, if you have a home that’s made of stone or masonry, consider adjoining a gas fire pit right up to the house itself. This not only allows heat to be reflected from the home back to the seating area, but it also makes it so you have to build less structure.

2. Define the space for your fire pit

A half wall and a stone patio create the space.

A half wall and a stone patio clearly define this space. Fire pits have a strong aesthetic connection to hardscaped areas. Naturally, stonework gives a fire-resistant landing for any sparks but, beyond that, it also provides a defined space for your fire pit area. Consider the firepit like a mini room with a focal point in the middle. It’s not necessary but having a version of a ‘rug’ will help define it. Of course, you shouldn’t use a rug, but a pebble floor, stone, or decking (not with wood fire pits) helps create a conversation area. Another, more beachy option would be sand!

3. Go portable

Move the fire pit around until you're comfortable with its location.

A portable pit lets you experiment with location. Committing to a built-in fire pit might not be your thing, whether that’s because of budget or not knowing where you’ll want it long-term. Should you not be ready to commit just yet, a portable or modular fire pit is the perfect place to start before taking the more permanent route of customization. If you think you’ll move it around a bit before finding its home, choose one with wheels for easy rearranging. Once many people find their ideal location, they want to create a more permanent structure and design. Remember, I’m here to help you with that, just a phone call or message away!

4. Have fun with string lights

Add some magic with string lights.

String lights add both light and ambiance. While the fire from the pit will provide lighting on its own, having low voltage lighting or string lights around the space (not over the fire) can certainly add to the ambiance, making the design all the more magical. It’s a relatively easy and inexpensive add-on that can really elevate the space.

5. Arrange a dining table near your fire pit

Arrange a dining table nearby.

Increase the utility of the fire pit by adding a dining table. If your fire pit area will primarily be used for gatherings and entertaining guests, placing an outdoor dining table nearby is an addition you won’t regret. Having multiple social areas that can “double-dip” into the fire pit is ideal. Who doesn’t love a tableside flicker?

6. Incorporate pillows and cushions for coziness

Combat a lot of stone with cozy pillows and cushions.

Combat a lot of stone with cozy pillows and cushions. With a hardscape design, vibrant pillows and cushions are a simple way to add a cozy contrast to the otherwise cold (fire not included) space. Make your stony space more inviting with these touches – and blankets – so that relaxing by the fire is actually comfortable.

7. Get creative with seating around the fire pit

Stools, stumps, and benches can all help diversify your seating.

Stools, stumps, and benches can all help diversify your seating. While classic Adirondack chairs are always an affordable option, getting creative with seating can go a long way when building an outdoor fire pit area. Repurpose something you already have or thrift some fun outdoor stools. Some have also found great success with boulders and stumps.

8. Try swing seating

Try swing seating near your fire pit.

A bench swing is inviting and unique. If you are willing to spend a little extra money, and classic chairs won’t cut it for you, a swinging seat or lounger is always a fun alternative for both children and adults alike. Remember, safety first! It’s got to be positioned and designed to utilize the fire but not allow for any unsafe situations as well.

9. Think small and close

Think small and arrange your fire pit close to your house.

A fire pit close to your house means easier access and increased use. Fire pits that are too far from the house often go unused and those that are too big won’t feel as cozy or inviting. Keeping them intimate and close to your home, the experts agree, will make them much more functional and allow for better conversation around the fire.

10. Make the fire pit part of your existing outdoor space

Make a fire pit part of your existing outdoor space

Embrace your existing landscaping to dictate the size and shape of your fire pit area. For a fire pit area design that functions best with the rest of your outdoor furniture, tie all of the materials and colors together so everything matches. This will make the space feel more a part of the rest of the design so it’s welcoming and doesn’t get neglected.

11. Opt for an outdoor couch

Opt for an outdoor couch around your fire pit.

A couch keeps things cozy. Similar to the swing seating, an outdoor couch is another cozy option for seating if you’re looking to spend a little more. Whether you choose a loveseat, a three-seater, or even a wrap-around, a couch adds extra warmth so you can bring your throw blankets outside and even swap out pillows seasonally.

12. Incorporate storage into your fire pit design

If you position it safely, your woodpile can serve as a design element.

If you position it safely, your woodpile can serve as a design element. Aside from the fireplace and seating, fire pit area designs with storage are a luxury you’ll be glad to have. Consider creative firewood storage or outdoor trunks that can double as seating and storage for pillows, blankets, marshmallow sticks, and the like.

13. Get fancy with a pergola

Overhead structures can also help define a seating area around your fire pit.

Overhead structures can also help define a seating area. Pergolas are elegant ways to draw attention to any area of a yard. Whether you build it yourself or buy it pre-built, it’s a whimsical piece of decor to add to a whimsical evening under the stars and by the fire.

14. Add end tables for food and drinks

Tree stumps can serve as great end tables with seating around your fire pit.

Tree stumps can serve as great end tables. Adding end tables around your fire pit for s’mores, beer, or whatever fireside goodies you’re consuming, goes a long way. Like with your seating, you can get creative with these tables so you’re not breaking the bank. Check fireplace wood salvage companies for stumps to double as extra seating or cocktail tables.

15. Add heat lamps for year-round enjoyment

Add heat lamps for year-round enjoyment of your fire pit.

Porch heaters can extend the fire pit season for months. Summer nights by the fire always make memories but if you’re looking to use your fire pit area well into the colder months, you’ll want to have additional heat sources.

A misconception about fire pits is that they are a great source of comfortable heating. To have an outdoor fire that is large enough to keep you warm without it getting too hot is hard to balance. Incorporating infrared heat lamps is the best – and safest – way to find this balance.

Insider’s takeaway

With a little creativity, designing an outdoor fire pit space can be fun – and doesn’t have to break the bank. Start by defining your space with stones, bricks, pebbles, or the like, and then add in seating, tables, lights, storage, or other decor to elevate the space and really make it your own. Sticking to a budget? Use what you already have around your yard or head to a thrift shop or wood scrap yard for inexpensive goodies.

I’d love to help you out and show you how to tie everything together to create your perfect vision for your backyard fire pit. Just contact me for a consultation. You can message me here, right below this blog post, or click this “contact” link, or 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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Christmas tree inspiration came from the light blue ribbon.

Christmas Tree Inspiration

My 2 Sponsored Christmas Trees for the Festival of the Trees

This is my 8th year designing sponsored trees for the annual Festival of the Trees event put on by the Orlando Museum of Art. I love doing it each year and have had so many happy sponsors pleased with the results. Each tree requires a good dose of inspiration and a lot of preparation, not to mention the actual setup, which must come off perfectly. While it is a lot of work, creating beautiful Christmas trees is so rewarding, especially seeing the faces of delighted children.

A special tree honoring our Healthcare Heroes

Healthcare Heroes tree for Orlando Health

For this year, I was asked to create a tree honoring our Healthcare Heroes by Orlando Health. They gave me some delightful nutcrackers representing doctors, nurses, and other frontline healthcare heroes for my Christmas tree inspiration, and I built a tree around these wonderful toys. I picked up on their colors and expanded it out through lights and decorations supporting the fun healthcare hero nutcracker and other ornaments. Check out the photos – I hope you like the tree! Who wouldn’t be inspired by such wonderful representations of our Healthcare Heroes!

Full Christmas tree sponsored by Orlando Health.

Sponsorship of the Healthcare Heroes tree.

This year, Spectrum News 13 interviewed me while I was decorating the Healthcare Heroes tree for Orlando Health, and featured a lot of my comments as a “seasoned designer”, having done this for so many years now. The interview was fun, and they captured some windy moments outside too, while I and my assistants were adding fake snow (flocking) to my second commissioned tree for  Corcoran Premier Realty.

Cool elegance to inspire warm memories of home

Chocky Burks, Broker at Corcoran Premier Realty commissioned me to do a tree that we call “Home for the Holidays.” My Christmas tree inspiration came from the color and style of the light blue ribbon I had selected, and led me to create a very elegant Christmas tree, complete with wintery snow-flocking. The silver, white, gold, and light turquoise colors are meant to impart the coolness of winter as well as the luxury and elegance of a finely-appointed holiday tree in a finely-appointed home. And the memories that can stir have a warmth all their own.

Carmen Dick and Chocky Burks with the elegant tree sponsored by Corcoran Premier Realty.

Holiday decorating is a year-’round pursuit

Of course, what I create for the Festival of the Trees spills over into my holiday decorating work and vice versa. The Christmas Decorators is my team (and myself) that’s totally focused on creating Christmas and other holiday decor throughout my clients’ homes this time of year. It takes a lot of planning and organizing, which is why I normally start advertising for bookings as early as June or July of any given year. And I’m collecting ideas and samples and materials throughout the year.

Ornaments and styling for the "Home for the Holidays" tree.

Inspiration is everywhere

Christmas tree inspiration is all around, I find it anywhere, from a fabric pattern or color to an object like the light blue ribbon I mentioned, to a client’s favorite piece of artwork…and sometimes even through a dream. I think to be truly creative in one’s work, you must be truly inspired, and I pair that with the ultimate goal of making my clients feel at home…in their home, whether it’s Christmas decorating, or complete interior design work. It all springs from the same source, and with the same goal in mind.

Healthcare Heroes tree nutcracker ornament.
Finishing touches on the "Home for the Holidays" Christmas tree.
I installed the furniture and rug around the "Home for the Holidays" tree too, thanks to La-Z-Boy Orlando!

I even created a restful space around the Corcoran Premier Realty tree. A special thank you to La-Z-Boy Orlando! They provided the two chairs, side tables and area rug, all of which tie in perfectly with the color scheme of the tree.

A new season of holiday decor will be here sooner than you think

I hope you enjoy what you see here, and that you’ll consider booking me to bring some of this holiday sparkle into your home for Christmas 2022. If that idea inspires you, be on the lookout for when I announce booking time mid-year 2022. And you know I’m always available to help you with the design and decor of all of your interior spaces throughout the year. 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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The familiar, comfortable nature of Evergreen Fog shines as a reassuring backdrop and freshens up any space

“Evergreen Fog” is the Sherwin-Williams 2022 Color Of The Year.

These days, if you’d rather skip the after party to go home, light a candle and break out the slippers, then this lovely neutral is for you. After years of bright jewel tones and chic neutral hues, Sherwin-Williams has announced Evergreen Fog (SW 9130), a strikingly soft and soothing green, as its 2022 color of the year.

“Evergreen Fog is a sophisticated wash of color for spaces that crave a subtle yet stunning statement shade,” said Sue Wadden, director of color marketing at Sherwin-Williams. “Evergreen Fog inspires us to begin again and is a great choice for modern interiors and exteriors.”

Evergreen Fog is a soft gray-green neutral.

The calming green represents much more than a deeper dive (and perhaps return) into a more muted palette that is appearing from a wide variety of sources. Wadden explains that in the past few years, neutrals have been warming up and we have prioritized sustainability and organic living more than ever. While just five years ago we may have gone for that polished contrasted look in our homes, more people are flocking to organic textiles and natural materials.

The Rise of Green

Sherwin-Williams isn’t the only major brand touting green in 2022, either. Benjamin Moore’s 2022 Color Trends Report pointed to “October Mist 1495”, a subtly smoky sage, among more earthy and soft-bold colors.

“Specifically, there’s been rising interest in greens. The green color family is so diverse, from calming rich sages like Evergreen Fog to earthier tones and more dramatic emeralds,” Wadden told Forbes Home. “All of our research and these trends helped Evergreen Fog emerge as a clear choice for the 2022 color of the year.”

Perfect welcome to our home color.

What’s more: This year’s 2022 color of the year reflects our reality having gone through (and still going through) a worldwide pandemic. Green is often associated with healing and growth, and while it’s simple speculation, it’s easy to correlate the selection for this year’s interior color schemes with what so many of us have realized we really needed over the last year and a half: a calm, safe space.

Living area calming color.

“Green from a color psychology standpoint is the color of nature and revitalization and growth, and green is emblematic of that newness,” Wadden continues. “The popularity of this soft gray-green right now shows how poignant that color and its meaning are. It’s about rebirth, growth, and beginning again. From the Sherwin-Williams perspective, we announced last year Urbane Bronze as our Color of the Year, which was all about sanctuary, safety, and cocooning.”

Evergreen Fog’s Best Color Pairings

While Wadden maintains that Evergreen Fog is an extremely versatile color, there are a few key colors she would recommend to pair it with.

“The familiar, comfortable nature of Evergreen Fog shines as a reassuring backdrop and freshens up any space,” Wadden said. “Create depth and texture with a mix of natural-looking textiles. Add a little gleam with a fusion of metals—champagne gold, warm brass, or inky black.”

Color-pairings for Evergreen Fog gray-green.

Wadden recommends pairing Evergreen Fog with organic neutrals such as Shoji White SW 7042, Accessible Beige SW 7036, and Woven Wicker SW 9104, as well as tonal luxurious hues such as Urbane Bronze SW 7048, Über Umber SW 9107, and Bakelite Gold SW 6368.

Where to Use Evergreen Fog

I love this hue’s versatility and ability to fit into nearly any design style, including art deco, modern organic, and postmodernism.

“Evergreen Fog brings a regenerative touch to any environment, whether hotel room, restaurant, or office,” said Wadden.

This Evergreen Fog is a calming color for your home office – or your business location.

The toned-down and composed color lends itself to dynamic areas of the home, such as lounges and other areas used for rest and relaxation, to encourage the adaptability of the space, but can also be used in entry areas and lobbies to create a comforting welcome.

“Evergreen Fog is such a versatile color that it can be paired with any style of design or décor to help create your desired mood for each room. It serves as a sophisticated backdrop for a home office and is a soothing hue for spaces where you want to relax, like a living room or bedroom,” Wadden said. “I also think that it’s a fresh take on cabinet storage in a kitchen or mudroom or trim paired with white paint for walls and ceilings. It’s as beautiful for exteriors as it is for interiors, and I would use it as a mid-tone for the whole home or a welcoming accent on a front door, shutters, or trim.”

Beautiful bathroom luxury with a calming color.

If this new color for 2022 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, let’s talk more about how Evergreen Fog 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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Fall decor

Transitioning Your Home From Summer To Fall Decor

I love fall decorating! But sometimes the transition from summer to fall can seem a bit sudden when it comes to home decor; however, planning a gradual transition is an easy way to make your home style come together. Instead of swapping all your decor at once, start by slowly bringing in fall accents towards the end of summertime (I know, here in Florida, it’s “fall-ish”). This gradual transformation will help you have a fully festive harvest home by the time the fall season arrives – I’d say, just pre-Halloween to post-Halloween. From simple decor swaps to lighting to comfy additions and more, here’s how to transition your home from summer to fall to get ready for the harvest season.

fall decor interior design

Put Your Summer Decor In Storage To Make Room For Fall Decor

The first step in transitioning your home from summer to fall is to gather all your summer decorations and items to put into storage. The idea is to start putting away anything that either has a summer theme or gives off a warm summer feeling. This can be a gradual task; you don’t necessarily need to put away everything at once. Start with individual rooms, and continue to place items in storage as the summer season ends. Decorations can be the first to go, followed by more practical summer items that you might still need until the very end of the season.

Summer Items To Place In Storage

  • Decorations with summer themes and colors
  • Faux plants and flowers
  • Summer wardrobe and accessories
  • Outdoor seating (this can stay outside until the weather starts to get cold)
  • Summer scented candles
  • Lightweight bedding, curtains, and blankets
  • Summer pillows and seat cushions

Bring Comfort To Your Home With Warm Lighting & Fall Scents

warm lighting, fall candles

The fall season is all about comfort and coziness within your own home. As you shift your home from summer to fall, it’s important to start bringing in that comfortable aesthetic to make for a seamless transition to the next season. Start adding some comfy cozy elements to each room of your home to get ready for the fall season.

There are so many ways to add warm and cozy elements to different areas of your home. Through lighting, scents, and more, you can easily make the seasonal shift feel natural and normal. Check out some ideas below for inspiration on how to create that cozy feeling in your home.

fall colors design board

Cozy Fall Elements To Add To Your Home

  • String lights & lanterns. Warm lighting is a great choice for your first fall addition to your home. Adding some string lights and lanterns to your home will give your space a cozy feeling without jumping too quickly into a fall theme.
  • Fall scented candles. Bringing fall scents into your home is another great way to gradually transition into the harvest season. Add some fall candles to your home with warm scents such as pumpkin spice, cinnamon, apple cider, bonfire, sandalwood, clove, and more.
  • Comfy fabrics. Adding comfortable fabrics throughout your home is another way to create a cozy fall environment. This can include faux fur blankets, large rugs, and plus towels.
  • Wood materials. Using wood materials strategically throughout your home is a great way to continue the warm feelings in your space. It can be as simple as adding some wood accents and decorations, to adding a new warm wood side table to your living room, using a wooden planter to hold fall flowers, or adding a wood accent chair to your home. And, of course, so much more.

Add Some Subtle Fall Colors For An Easy Seasonal Transition

add some warm fall colors

While summer color schemes are bright and bold, the fall season has more muted and warm colors. In order to make a smooth transition into the harvest season, you can gradually add fall colors to your home with the help of small accents and other items. This is a great way to make the transition less jarring and more natural.

Add fall color with lovely fall foliage

How To Add Fall Colors To Your Home

There are many ways to bring fall colors into your home; however, you need to start in a more subtle way if you want that smooth transition. Find areas of your home where you can swap summer colors for fall ones, or areas that are lacking a solid color scheme. Here are some easy ideas for adding fall colors to your home in a small way towards the end of summer.

Decorate your doors and your entry way

  • Add a fall flower arrangement to your coffee table or dining table
  • Hang up a fall wreath on your door
  • Lay out a fall garland across your mantel
  • Display orange and red candles throughout your home
  • Hang up fall colored towels in the bathroom
  • Use fall-colored string lights throughout your home

Swap Your Throw Pillows & Linens For A Fall Style

Pillows and throws with fall colors

Another easy way to transition your home from summer to fall is to swap out your throw pillows and other linens. As mentioned before, fall time is all about the warm and cozy feeling in your home, and swapping out fabrics is a great way to accomplish that. This is an especially good idea if you currently have light and flowy summer fabrics throughout your home.

warm colors of throw pillows

This leopard throw pillow completes the decor

Make sure to swap these fabrics and linens for thicker and warmer items. Popular fall fabrics include wool, faux fur, and thick cotton. Take note of these elements to include them in your decor spread throughout your space. If you aren’t sure where to begin, check out some ideas below for what to swap.

Fabrics & Linens To Swap For Fall

  • Throw pillows and blankets on the couch and bed
  • Rugs in your bathroom and other areas of your home
  • Window coverings and curtains
  • Comforters and bedsheets
  • Hand towels and bath towels

Add Pumpkins Gradually To Your Decor For A Smooth Transition

Fall time comes with many iconic symbols, so it’s only fitting to start decorating with those symbols. However, if you want a smooth transition from summer to fall, you have to start on a smaller scale. The best place to start is by slowly adding pumpkins to your decor spread to get a subtle fall appearance.

Add pumpkins for a fall look

Pumpkin decorations can come in all shapes and forms. Start by adding a few ceramic pumpkins to your coffee table and entryway table. Then, as the fall season gets closer, you can slowly incorporate more pumpkins through the help of wall signs, patterned pillows, and other themed accents. Starting with just a few pumpkin items will help give off that subtle fall transition without overloading your space.

In addition to pumpkins, you can also slowly incorporate other fall symbols and patterns. This can include things such as plaid, fall foliage, apples, and any patterns with red and orange color schemes. Bring these patterns in with small decorative accents – this will help you notice the change but it won’t give your space a full harvest transformation at once.

Create Small Fall Decor Spreads Throughout Your Home

Create little areas of fall elements

Another simple way to transition your home from summer to fall is to create small fall decor spreads throughout your home. Small setups throughout your home are a great way to bring the fall feeling to your space in a subtle and seamless way. Find areas of your space where you can create these displays without interrupting the style of the room.

A great place to start is with your mantel. The mantel display in your living room can instantly establish the theme of your space; adding a small fall spread will help you transition into the harvest season. For instance, you can add a small fall sentiment sign with a couple of decorative pumpkins or a grouping of gourds. This may look very simple, but you can always add extra fall accents to your mantel as the harvest season gets closer.

Pumpkin candles add that warm glow

In addition to your mantel, you can also set up small fall decor spreads in other areas of your home. This can include areas like the entryway table, coffee table, kitchen island, bathroom shelf, or bookshelf. Find small open areas to create these displays or even find areas with summer decorations that can be swapped for fall accents. These small changes will add to your home transition in a big way.

I’m always available for consultations and design projects to help you bring fall into your home or business. There are so many beautiful choices to make any space gently transition to the fall and/or holiday season. Or if you do like a clean sweep, I can do it all in one visit. If this sounds appealing, let’s talk more about warming up your spaces with the colors and scents, and textures of the fall season. 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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Adding plants can breathe new life into your spaces

Decorating with Plants Can Breathe New Life Into Your Spaces.

Bring a touch of the outdoors inside and add some warmth to your spaces

You know the joy that greenery can bring to a home. Decorating with plants and flowers adds a pop of color and a breath of fresh air to an interior that is hard to replicate any other way. Now just imagine the above photo without the stately fiddle fig or the sumptuous orchid. A lot less inviting, right? Plants just add a natural (living) warmth to a space.
plants make this space more inviting
Infusing your home with green leafy plants helps to make your space feel fresh and have a welcoming atmosphere, not to mention they help purify your air and create positive Feng Shui energy. And all of that together creates a space that feels homey and cozy and also nicely styled.
interiors are more inviting with plants

Decorating with plants is something anybody can do

Gardening isn’t just for people with backyards and floral budgets, either. Anyone can be an indoor gardener. You can grow a ficus in your living room, create a permanent centerpiece of succulents, add some flowing ivy vines in your kitchen, add a miniature topiary or a creeping fig in the bathroom. Spend your free time building delicate fairy gardens (or mermaid gardens) to line your kitchen windows, grow herbs in the windowsill. or create a tiny garden on your balcony.
simple but beautiful tray with plants

Breathe easy with the beauty of plants

Adding plants to your interiors will not only beautify your home but will also help to improve your home’s indoor air quality. According to the EPA, the average American home’s interior air quality is much more toxic than that of the air outside. This is why decorating your home with plants is the perfect solution, working double duty as a decorative accessory and filtering your air.
a simple addition adds oomph to this bedroom.

A little living beauty goes a long way

Now you can see why green plants will help to breathe life into any space. I have many examples here, of how plants can beautify your spaces, and add that welcoming warmth to your home. If any of these inspire you, let me know which are your favorites. I’d love to come up with some suggestions as to how plants can add a breath of fresh air into your interiors.
Pops of color abound once you add plants.
Just a few key plants make all the difference.

Now there is one thing to remember

If you have small children or furry friends in your home, some indoor plants can be toxic, especially for our family pets, who often will chew on the leaves or flowers of plants. Here is a link to the ASPCA which has lists of common plants toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. And here is a list of common houseplants dangerous to children. The good news is that most houseplants are safe for infants and toddlers. If you click on the link, scroll down a bit in the article to view the actual list. You can do additional searches to determine if any plants you might be interested in could be a problem. The most important thing is to keep our little ones safe and well.
Notice how palms add sweeping arcs and flair to the space.
If you’d like to explore how plants can brighten and enliven your interiors, I’m always available for a consultation to help you decide on the best plants for your levels of light, and ease of maintenance and other conditions in your home or business. There are so many options and almost always perfect solutions for any space. If interested, let’s talk more about decorating with plants. 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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The Christmas Decorators - Soho Interior Design

Christmas Will Be Here Before You Know It!

Soho Interior Design offers The Christmas Decorators.

Just a reminder to everyone that booking early to have me and my Christmas Decorators team dress up your home or business for the holidays is a great way to avoid last-minute frustration! Our available slots tend to fill up fast! We’ve been doing Christmas decorating for 5 years now, and have several very pleased repeat clients. If you’re hosting a Christmas or holiday-time party or having family visit for the holidays, we can decorate your home and create that warm, inviting Christmastime vibe!

If you think you’ll be in town and want your home done up for the holidays, early booking is a great way to lock things in. Click this link to check out some of my past holiday projects, showcased on my website. We’d love to customize your home for your Christmas! Just click the contact link on this website and message me here, or you can email me at: carmen@sohointeriordesign.com. And, of course, you can call me anytime at: (407) 947-7718. It’s easy to book The Christmas Decorators!

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