In response to minimalism and grey tones that have dominated for a decade, a wave of nostalgia has infused interior decorating lately. Here are some ways to incorporate this whimsical and colorful look into your home:
INTRODUCE BOTANICALS AND FOLK ART
Romantic florals and nature-inspired themes bring a sense of charm to any room. In our office design, muted yellow forms a backdrop for this mural wallpaper, and is echoed in needlepoint accent chairs with a handmade folk art feel.
BRING THE OUTDOORS IN WITH EARTHY SAGE
In recent years many developed a need to be outside, breathe fresh air, and escape to the country. While the dream may be impossible, the feeling can be achieved by adding earthy greens and warm wood tones to interiors.
ADD A SENSE OF HISTORY WITH DISTRESSED OR WEATHERED PIECES
The shabby chic trend of the ’90s is coming around again, but this time the look is a little simpler. The basic ideas of weathered finishes, lived-in pieces, and light and airy colors remain. In our primary bedroom design, weathered brick commands attention, as do the rustic beams and old-world chandelier.
SOFTEN A ROOM WITH FABRICS AND WALLPAPER
Curtains, upholstered headboards, layered bedding and pillows, and wallpaper take the edges off a room and transport us to a time when life was sweeter. A matchstick wood shade furthers the sense of Southern style which is often drenched in nostalgia.
HAVE A LITTLE FUN WITH KITSCHY COLOR
Who says cabinets need to be white or brown, and appliances need to be silver? Add a smile to your kitchen with colors that make you happy. Here, pink blush combines with a retro blue fridge for a look that can’t help but cheer. Upper cabinets are replaced with nostalgic framed botanicals for an open and simplistic look.
WOOD TONES ADD THE NATURE WE CRAVE
Adding texture to walls is a surefire way to give a room a storied look. In our guest bedroom design, wood-planked walls tie into the beaded chandelier for an infusion of cozy style. Combined with a patchwork quilt and retro green walls, the contrast of light and airy with rustic creates balance. Framed magazine covers personalize the space.
TAKE A LOOK AT HISTORIC PATTERNS
In the late 1800’s, William Morris founded a decorative arts firm with his partners which eventually became Morris & Co., a textile powerhouse that is having great success even to this day. Here, his Strawberry Theif pattern combines with gold fixtures and lighting for a look that makes a new house look old in the best way possible.
