Loving the new trend of bright colors but afraid to try? Here's how to start

More and more I see beautiful, bold color on the covers of home decor mags but rarely do you ever see such color in someone's home. The reason is that, as I'm sure you know, the thought of painting your living room royal blue, or whatever your color crush, is a little scary....

The trick, and I'm sure this is no secret - is to start with a few accessories in a color you love, and then, if you are happy living with it, start adding more and more layers at a time.

For example, in the room above - maybe they just started with those fab. aqua pillows. They were happy and added the aqua lamp. Then maybe the colorful vase you see in the back. Their courage was up and maybe a few weeks or months later they add some pink pillows and those gorgeous blue curtains!
via Pier 1

Bright color is scary enough, so stick with one hue if you need to. This cornflower blue alone has big impact.
via House to Home

Really color shy? Try just adding a bright throw as seen in the two views of the living room below. Sometimes just one pop is enough to satiate your need for color...


via Alice in Designland

If you want to be a little braver - try an upholstered piece, like this gorgeous plum velvet chesterfield. Mix and match pillows and an eclectic rug keeps the space down to earth.

via House to Home

In the jewel-toned home office above, different bold colors are brought in in layers - a turquoise screen, a plum chair, and green foliage.
via House Beautiful

Now...for those of us who think we may be able to paint....

Maybe start with a washed effect of a bright color....like this pink below, which is bright but also a little translucent.

...or try going all out in a smaller space, like this purple hall, fully decked out with a vibrantly patterned chaise and that AMAZING pillow!
two above via Elle Decor

I don't know if I'll ever be brave enough to do something like this but it sure is glamorous isn't it!
via Real Simple

How about you? Have you wanted to use color but are always too scared? Is anyone living with color and loving it?

Spring is on it's way! 10 great tips to freshen up the place at little to no cost

These clever and thoughtful tips come to you from Beverly Hills interior designer David Solomon. I didn't know residents of the Hills needed budget tips - but David has some great ones nonetheless! To see David's portfolio go to his site.

1. Paint is your best friend
One of the most affordable options as a homeowner is to paint a room. Try picking a theme or choose a color and build your room around the mood of the color.


The dusky blue paint in this entryway sets the tone for this home - you get a sense that it will have a historic, eclectic, and mature feel.
via Maison Interiør

2. Stick to a theme.
What do you call a Japanese, Victorian, and Modern theme? Answer: a college dorm. Try to stick to a basic theme and work with that design.

3. Use visual cues.
Most people ignore very innate physical attributes of a home. Arched doorways are good for a Spanish theme. Crowned molding works well with Victorian and Art Deco styles. Wainscoting on walls can work with a country theme. Solid walls work well with modern.


The decorator here took a cue from the elegant molding and created a luxe sitting room
via Scandinavian Chic

4. Furniture makes a statement about the room.
One of the biggest investments you can make can be the furniture you purchase for a room, however, try to repurpose existing furniture or try using simple chairs with matching table to create a theme.


This room could have gone in many directions but this unique table and the patina of the wood sets the tone as rustic and traditional
via BoligDrøm


5. Take a peek under the carpet
If you own an older home, chances are you are covering hard wood floors with that 70’s shag carpet. If you own a new home don’t be afraid to pull the carpet and put down wood laminate. Engineered wood has never been more affordable.

6. Put down an area rug.
Area rugs can be purchased for as little as $200 and give a room a very expensive look. Carpet remnants make for excellent area rugs. See local Carpet store.


via My Marrakesh


7. Ditch the overhead chandelier for wall sconces
Lighting is the oldest trick in the book to make a room pop; just ask Hollywood filmmakers. Get creative while sticking to the theme. Create a modern room by hiding the light source or create a Victorian feel by putting wall sconces on a light fader.

8. Less is more
Most people believe that every square inch needs to be filled in a room but emptiness is a statement in itself. Don’t be afraid to leave a wall void of furniture.

9. Use accessories.
One of the least expensive ways to add color to a room with white walls is to add red pillows. Pillows, throw rugs, candles, paintings, photos, and flowers can make mild into wild.



via Casa Diez

10. Add a plant
One of the best ways to make a room feel like a living space is to add living plants, like a tall leafy plant in one corner, or just get some fresh seasonal flowers for the table.

via Alice in Designland


BONUS TIP

Any change you make will add to your overall curb appeal and ultimately to the value of your home. Keep in mind that outdoor improvements such as foliage, plants, and bushes take a long time to grow so plan ahead.