Designer Lauren Oviatt with Oviatt-Pratt & Associates breaks down some of the hottest home trends for 2011.
Statement Chair
The ‘statement’ chair, or accent chair, is a stylish way to add some needed personality to any space. In a living room, it offers a nice break from your more traditional shapes or patterns, and in secondary spaces like desk or vanity areas an accent chair becomes the star of the show. The only rule here is – look for a chair that is size-appropriate. Beyond that, have fun! Explore different shapes like wing chairs, Chippendale-style chairs, small slipper chairs or even one with a Chinoiserie bamboo-style frame. Then, think about the color of the frame or the fabric. Accent chairs provide the opportunity use a bold pattern or color choice without overwhelming existing décor. The statement is made – but contained.
Colorful Ceramics
From vases to decorative pots, candlesticks and everything in between – we are always looking for accessories to place on our mantles, console tables and other areas that need a little pick-me-up. Trending right now are bright ceramic pieces in bold color and interesting shapes. Consider substituting these dramatic pieces for your existing black candlesticks, etc. or wrought iron accessories and you’ll notice an instant punch of personality and liveliness.
Geometric-Patterned Rugs
One of the quickest ways to update your existing décor is by replacing older rugs with newer styles that are bold in color or geometric pattern. We are seeing so many different styles used to instantly update family rooms, bedrooms and even entryways. Look for patterns like wide stripes, hexagon, chevron (zig zag), or larger, more modern floral motifs. Also, these rugs typically have high-contrast colors, employing a dark vs. light color scheme instead of a neutral tone-on-tone look. By throwing down a new rug, you’ll forget all about wanting all new furniture… the transformation can be that powerful.
Screen Printed Fabrics
Gone are the days that you’re confined to the pillows that you purchased with your sofa or that came with your bedding set. With more access to designer fabrics and more resources than ever before, it’s easy and inexpensive to swap dull or ‘matchy matchy’ pillows for those that inject your own personality into your space. What’s hot right now? Fabrics that are screen-printed for that one-of-a-kind flair. They are usually quite unique in pattern and color combination and also tend to be lighter in terms of the fabric blend. You may be lucky enough to find your perfect pillow already constructed, but don’t be afraid to search out fabric stores and designer resources to create pillows (and more) that are truly originals!
Hot Design Books
Every month new interior design books are published by independent designers and trade publications alike. I love picking apart the photos and discovering the details that other designers use to make rooms look well-finished and carefully considered. Not only are these books useful as references, they make outstanding eye candy! There is a big trend right now toward taking your ‘hidden’ storage out of cupboards and cabinets and creating beautiful visual displays. Place these colorful design books in open bookcases, on nightstands and coffee tables. You’ll come off stylish and well-read!
Dramatic Drum Shades
Interior lighting like chandeliers, lamps and pendants are more emphasized than ever before. You’ll be doing double duty to have lighting that is both functional for the task at hand and also fabulous looking. Right now we are seeing a trend toward large drum-shades… taking on a cylindrical shape instead of a tapered or fluted shape. The more exaggerated the size or color, the more outstanding the look these shades create. Think about substituting simple white drum shades on your outdated lamps – and even consider taking down that old chandelier that came with your house and replacing it with an over-scaled drum pendant for a wonderfully dramatic change. These shade kits are available in many price ranges and often have decorative finials, colored banding on the edges or other custom details. Tip: Look for a pendant shade that has a diffuser, a semi-opaque plastic disc that essentially diffuses light. For a hanging pendant, use the diffuser underneath. This detail will keep the light bulbs concealed and also make the downward glow much softer. For lamps, the diffuser is often used on the top of the shade to hide bulbs from above and create task lighting below.
Lauren Stimpson Oviatt
Oviatt-Pratt & Associates
Interiors & Design
lauren@oviattpratt.com
www.oviattpratt.com
801.451.4531
Lauren has always had a love for interior and landscape design, floral décor, and all things beautiful! Having lived in the South and also on the west coast before settling in Utah, her design instinct is to combine traditional elements and furniture with updated style and current color palettes. She is constantly looking for ways to infuse glamour into her projects while bringing a fresh perspective and an eye for tasteful, classic design. Lauren has degrees in both Public Relations and Interior Design and worked in wedding/event planning before transitioning to residential and hospitality design.
Oviatt – Pratt is a full-service design firm in business for over 25 years, specializing in high-end residential and commercial design. The scope of their projects ranges from simple home renovations to large-scale construction projects where design is implemented from the first color choices to the final finishing touches. With direct access to over 75 upholstery, accessory and furniture lines, Oviatt-Pratt’s designers are able to provide each client with pieces that are particular to his or her taste and style. Their showroom is open to the public Monday through Friday.
Add comment