Decorating with gray – Are you neutral?

A lot of people think using gray as a neutral color it’s an overwhelming trend, in a good way. I’m with them! I have always been a dark color girl (I can wear black every day), so you can imagine how I feel about using gray in my décor. I just love the sophisticated look and attractiveness gray brings in – it’s overwhelmingly awesome! On the other hand, other people do think decorating with gray is outdated. That said, let’s explore some ways you can work with gray and how you can add it to your décor and style. Who knows? You might change your mind 🙂 .

Explore your idea of neutral

Neutral colors are actually basic to every tool kit. I think the beauty of neutral is within their flexibility and versatility. Neutral tones offer just the perfect framework that blend in well with some accent colors that will come in later with your furniture as well as decorative accents. I’m sure you’ve noticed by now, among all the known neutral colors, gray has been considered the “hot shade” for the past few years and it has hit the design space with a boom! Finding its way through most people’s hearts – mine included!

Some associate it with sadness and misery. But all in all, people’s perception towards it has changed over the years since more and more people (professional designers and not) are learning to appreciate the sophistication that comes with it! When you think neutral, the goal is to go with a color that can blend in well with both the sleek modern look and the traditional vintage look, right? Well, that’s what the neutrality of gray does!

50+ Hues of Gray

Gray hues will give you that modern taste of freshness and simplicity all in one package. Find the perfect shades of gray! They will blend in with almost any furnishings giving you a complementary natural feeling. Because of all the different shades of gray, it is now being integrated in most of the interior color schemes; bathrooms, living rooms and even bedrooms. I would say this though, to bring out the best out of that simple yet powerful look, you must know how to choose the best shades for YOUR décor. There are a variety of cooler and warmer shades to choose from; cool ones come in some kind of under-shade of blue, while the warm ones have the brown or yellow under-shade – so you’ll have tons of options! A few things to consider in order to make the best selection: the color of the bricks or stones of your house (if you have any), the lighting fixtures, the cabinetry, the flooring, and wood trims (which can be stained or painted to match).

Adding gray dimension

Nothing is as boring as having bare walls. They make your house loose that sense of belonging. With gray paints, you can add more personality to your walls giving them better dimensions so that they won’t feel bare.
A blend of white ceilings and gray walls is the perfect match! Or you can paint the ceiling with a slightly lighter shade of gray than the walls to contrast. This gives the smaller rooms in the house a more spacious feel as well. If you have a higher ceiling, you can opt for darker shades of gray which will help create the perfect illusion of a cozy space! So if you feel that beige or nude is not giving you the ideal look you’re looking for, try gray! Is a great neutral alternative that will give you a much modern, cleaner and crisper look. Talk about dramatic dimension!

Making the best out of your Gray

Whether you go with a cool or a warm gray, there is always something unique with both. The secret is knowing how to blend them in to your home décor, but first, consider breaking out of your neutral color comfort zone! Look into the different kinds and shades of gray and what your options are. People tend to feel more comfortable with a cool shade, but there are other grays too. Don’t be afraid to experiment with a warmer gray or “greige” – combination of gray and beige – if that is a more comfy and familiar route for you.

After you’ve decided to give gray a go, I think it’s important to learn about the diverse differences that distinguish between the cool and warm shades of gray. Being familiar with the color temperatures will help you choose the right palettes easier. If your colors are inconsistent and the undertones do not match, it can ruin the whole gray décor! Also, consider using dark blues and dark grays (like charcoal), it will bring in that dark accent while still not being too dull. The charcoal gray shade does very well when used in home accents like area rugs or fabric furniture. Once you’ve mastered the undertones and different shades you’ll be matching your gray colors like a pro!

Gray-ro-ration! Décor Ideas

1. Living Room

Think of gray as a fun color – it is! Each shade gives you a different style and look so you can play around with it and find YOUR perfect gray. When considering gray for your living room, if you want the modern look, go with a darker shade – go all out! This is one of the most important rooms after all. Add curtains or area rugs with patterns to bring out the gray and make it more fun; you can go with stripes or geometric. As for the décor, think of accent shades that will break out the gray, but still define it – something bright and shiny maybe?

2. Bathroom

Gray is the trending bathroom color of our time! You may wonder why still so many people choose gray when it seems so ‘cold’ for the bathroom? Well, with the right blend, gray makes just the right combination for your bathroom décor since opportunities will be endless! Gray doesn’t have to be boring or remind you of a prison cell; you can add a little spice to the mix by adding a charcoal gray with contemporary bathroom fixtures. If your bathroom is small (like mine), gray will add just the perfect drop of elegance you need to make it interesting. You’re missing out!

Here are other ideas to include gray in your bathroom décor:

  • Use of dark gray tiles: You can use large gray format tiles to give your bathroom that ideal vibe.
  • Gray paint. Give your bathroom that gray fresh face using gray paint on either of your walls or the ceiling.
  • Gray marble walls. Are you obsessed with marble like I am? If you would like to give your bathroom a full transformation, use marble walls with a blend of gray and white. You’ll thank me later 🙂
  • Dove gray. You don’t have to view gray among those gloomy and shady colors. Lighten up the mood in your bathroom with a dove gray and a blend of fresh pink tones. This will make an awesome combination that will help bounce in light in to your bathroom space.

3. Bedroom

I like my bedroom to feel soothing and calm. By now, you probably already know, I am obsessed with gray 🙂 . It’s the color theme at my home and I opted to using a lighter shade in the bedroom – pale gray headboard paired with light gray and white bedding. I was going for a sunnier setting in the bedroom, but if you’d like to use gray in yours, you can contrast the gray by going for a light shade on the walls and darker bedding (or vice versa). Bring in a little extra life with artificial plants (or real if you prefer), a couple of art work pieces, floor vases, and mirrors! Try to find the right combination and be on your gray-way.

What’s the verdict?

Are you open to have a little fun with gray? I hope you now have a different perspective of how you can add gray to your decorative accents, accessories, furniture and wall paint! All you need to do is understand the different shades and know how you can make them work for you and your décor. Gray does not have to be dull and plain – it can be so much fun, original, and adaptable. Give it a chance and you won’t regret it! What are your favorite neutral colors? Do you consider gray a neutral? Let me know your thoughts below!

Here’s a video for additional guidance!

Interior Decor Trends for 2018 – Are you in?

I know I’m not the only one that wishes I could change my décor every other month, right?! I would just love to have a different theme and color scheme more often, but we tend to stick with “one” for a while until we decide to make that drastic switch-up. As a way to comfort my ache (so hard to do by the way), I try to stay up to date with the latest trends and incorporate it in my existing décor without having to change it all at once. You can split up your projects and do bits and pieces so you can satisfy your need for the ‘new and different’. Are you interested in changing some of your interior design to match the current trends? Let’s go through some of the hottest interior styles for 2018 so that you can start your transformation!

Geometric patterns

Did you notice last year’s geometric patterns were mostly around accent rugs and various cushions? This year, geometric patterns are making their way into the bold design of tiles, wallpaper and even art pieces! Decorative touches such as beautiful layered tiles are the perfect option for your shower or kitchen. If you are interested in redoing your backsplash or creating a unique look for your home, using some geometric patterns will definitely help create a trendy look!Indigo style tones

Pastel tones and indigo colors are becoming a big favorite this year when it comes to the best options for enhancing a room. Indigo is part of my own living room color scheme and I LOVE it! I paired it with a pastel color (beige), and contrasted with a medium grey. If you’re going for painting an entire room, it can sometimes be difficult to accessorize with what you already have, but using a pastel and neutral tone can give a room real texture and life without changing your entire decor. On the other hand, adding in colored portraits and a little indigo touch is one way to create a pattern that will not only add consistency and cheerfulness to the décor, but also bring in a new style and invite the spring and summertime looks!

Bold Colors

Speaking of colors, apart from tropical, there are a number of color palettes that pop out and have an awesome boldness to it – that can be another way to transform your living space. Be bold with your colors too! Going with a bold color can even make your space appear larger, which can be very beneficial if you have a smaller space to work with. Bold colors can be one of the best ways to ground a look, create a scheme that can open any room, and make it appear much more artistic. You can add in these bold colors and textures by pairing them with other accents in the space including curtains, cushions, rugs, accent tables, and much more! There are a few ways to introduce these stylish effects and create art piece layers across your entire space. Use it… boldly 🙂

Luxury metallic

Metallics were also very popular last year, but adding a metallic look into your home decor this year, means a more luxurious look. I think gold metallic is set to be one of the biggest trends of the year and it has a softer look than silver, which can be used to bring together a unique elegance and a more sophisticated trendy feel. I think when most people think “metallic colors” they often think of doorknobs, handles and lamp designs, but there are so many beautiful ways to add gold (and silver) metallic decorating pieces that you would not know where to start or what to get! There’s now metallic everything – metallic candle holders, metallic decorative vases, metallic decorative accessories, metallic mirrors, even metallic furniture! It’s the perfect addition if you’re going with a modern, lavish look. Would you integrate metallic in your interior scheme?

Ombre – licicious

The look of shading, or Ombre, interior is one of the latest trends. You are likely to see this look in a variety of different ways and it’s generally something that takes some expertise to do properly so make sure you hire a professional – unless your significant other is handy :). If you’re going with an ombre look, once you have chosen some of your color way, you can start to coordinate your accessories and balance the colors of the wall by mixing in various shades. It will add depth and a very unique style to the room of choice. If you feel like changing the wall color to ombre would be too risky or you’re not too sure, you can also go with ombre curtains. There are also some deliciously-visual ombre accent rugs you can add as a start-up!Shining, shining, yeah!

This can be a more involved project but picking a flooring option that reflects light back into your room can be a welcomed addition to your improved decor. Also, adding a shimmery look in the form of decorative paint or a shiny style carpet – so innovative and fun! It serves as foundation for great spring and summer looks. A blush rose color can be one perfect option for the new season and it can go great with other tones like white and black (one of my favorites!). This style is very adaptable and can run through the different seasons without needing much change, other than the accent décor pieces if you’re changing the color scheme in the room. Between the shining floor options, shining floor tones and a series of prints (or solids) that can complement the look – phew! What a way to shine!

Two-tone kitchen

I love two-tones, but two-ones in the kitchen? I’m in! Again, a bit more involved project, but you can change your cabinetry to a two-tone effect using colors that stand out and vibrant paint. I think this remains as one of the best ways to modernize your kitchen. Using a lighter cabinet trend and brightened paint colors can create the contrast that you need to build a look that will impress a few eyes!

Are you in?

If you’re looking to add to your décor or simply change part of it, consider some of these top interior trends for the coming season. These can all make a beautiful statement in your home, creating a new look that will surely catch attention. Do you like any of the trends this year? What are your favorites? Comment below!

Artificial Plants – Faux goodness!

I have found a new love and I want to let you all in my little décor secret, faux plants! I just can’t get enough. Don’t get me wrong, I love the real stuff too. If you are a hard-working gardener and real-plant lover, kudos to you! But there is something about artificial flowers and plants I just can’t resist. Not only are they low-maintenance and can last FOREVER (or so), but I truly believe they add a very special kick to any décor in ANY space that the real stuff just doesn’t. Have you tried them? Here are a few simple tips that can help you with your own faux plant décor!

Stick to high-quality

They’re faux, but that doesn’t mean they have to look like it. Try to stick to the high-quality plants that give you a real taste even if you have to spend a few extra dollars, it’s worth it! A beautiful pot makes all the difference in the quality look and feel of your plant, start there. Go for plants that have “fake dirt” or “soil” – that will add to the illusion. Lastly, pick a good looking stem or flawed leaves, the imperfection will add to the “real thing” look and no one will tell the difference!

Do they fit?

Like any other accent piece, faux plants should add to your existing décor, not fade it. Make sure your selection is a good fit for your space – maybe an empty corner you’d like to fill? Want to bring in some color? The plant should “work” with what you already have and it should make a beautiful statement in the room of your preference, even the bathroom! Placement is also one thing to consider when finding the right home for your plant – make sure you put it where you would a real plant.

Faux succulents too

I live in faux succulent heaven. They’re not only gorgeous, but so realistic and super affordable! They are also a great way to diversify your not-so-real plant décor spree :). They enhance the visual aspect of almost any area and you have an unlimited amount of options. Real succulents are also fairly easy to maintain, but when considering weather changes (like New York 🙁 ) and other requirements, the artificial option might be more beneficial to your décor needs.

Dust off!

They are low maintenance but they do tend to be more susceptible to dust. You can easily dust them off with a regular duster once or twice a week to add time to the life of your faux plant. Be extra careful when cleaning or dusting so you don’t damage the stems, leaves, or flowers.

Bottom line

I find artificial plants to be an extremely useful decorating tool that, when done the right way, can be a stylish addition to your décor. No watering, no stress with having to grow them, pest-free, just a little dusting? I’m here for it! What are your thoughts on artificial flowers and plants? Do you love them or hate them? Comment below!

Here are some of my favorite sites for faux plants:

Home Goods
Pier 1
Amazon
Kirklands
CB2
Crate & Barrell
West Elm

Simple Home Decorating Tips – beginners and experts!

Smart and beautiful home décor does not need to be expensive or difficult! Believe it or not, a lot of simple home decorating hacks can be used to update the look and feel of your living space without costing a fortune. Not convinced? Check out these budget friendly fixes and some of the best decorating ideas for an instant update!

Rearrange your furniture

Planning to buy new piece of furniture? And that too just for home decoration? Here’s an alternative: how about imparting a fresh makeover to your living space simply by rearranging your furniture? Yep, that simple. It’s time to reassess every corner of your home and tweak the placing of certain pieces of furniture. And BAM! A new makeover is just in front of your eyes.

Opt for DIY Wallpaper

For a smart and instant makeover, craft your space with paint and a pretty stencil, instead of spending loads on wall color! This is a great way to add some colorful vibe in your living space – simply reinvent the existing décor by applying a fresh look with a jazzy wallpaper. How cool is that?

Get Some DIY Rugs

Rugs and carpets are the newest additions in the home décor. Colored pieces are in high demand and nowadays these are available EVERYWHERE. But, if you don’t want to shell off your hard earned cash, opt for some DIY Rugs. Shop the materials from an online store! Rugs can introduce perfect color and texture to an otherwise dull area

Plant Some Greens

So you are a nature lover? Me too. I personally prefer artificial plants for home décor – simple maintenance and chic accent! There are so many options in today’s modern décor world, but you can also plant some greens to design your space the natural way. Set up multiple plants in your living space, real or not, just to jazz up the zone. It’s such a simple, yet effective way to add a kick to your existing décor.

Storage Goals?

When it comes to working on storage, it’s important to focus on functionality as well as style. So, put in some adaptable pieces of storage items that also amp up the style of your home. The idea is to keep a space clutter free and simply relish. Opt for multi-purpose coffee tables and sofas to optimize your storage space and make a great display of your gorgeous accessories and accent pieces.

Illuminate with Candles

Brighten your home to decorate it. Yes! There’s no better way to fill in positive vibes in your living space. You can do that with simple candles. Scented candles are amazing for this purpose. Candles are inexpensive and readily available, but if you want some unique touch, go for a DIY option. You can get some raw wax from the market and get it treated with floral flavors to create unique scents of your own. You can also add colors that perfectly resonate with your taste and personal preferences.

Get Some Throw Pillows

Ah, throw pillows – one of my favorite accent pieces! When it comes to updating the look and feel of your living space, throw pillows are a great way to have season designs and fun and fresh new looks. Simple and color-varied throw pillows can make a huge difference. You can also opt for a cheaper option and purchase the covers to design them in your own, unique way!

Decorate with Glassware

A wonderful and artistic mix of old and new glassware sitting on the shelves, including wineglasses of different colors, makes an awesome décor. The arrangement adds a pop of color to the open shelving and at the same time will serve as beautiful eye candy! Who knew? 🙂

Create a Chair Rail

This is a fairly new concept which you can actually put to use and add to your décor. Bring up a typical architectural drama with a chair rail! Keep in mind installing a chair rail can be a piece of cake — especially if you are opting for a stick-on molding. One way is to paint the areas above and below thoroughly with two different shades of the same color to create a smart, modern look

Takeaway

Keep in mind that modern home décor should not necessarily be expensive. Re-decorating your home just got a lot easier nowadays and the best part? Affordable! Comment below with your favorite hacks or tips!