color post: which pinks love grey

For so many years beige, or some form of warm neutral,

was the go-to backdrop for every space.

Now, with grey at the forefront of design,

many of us are trying to make the switch from warm neutrals to cool ones...

Concerned about creating a space that feels "cold", 

my clients usually want to incorporate some colorful accents when using grey on the walls.

 A question I am constantly asked is what colors work with grey.

If you read my post on clean color,

you'll know that almost any hue works with grey, 

what's important is that it is a pure hue that has been mixed only with white, black, or grey.

but one of my favourite combinations is grey mixed up with pink and it's cohorts...

and when I saw this living room, I swooned, because the color mix is exactly right.

 grey wall and sofa + with fresh garden hues - how about that lush emerald?

(and note how the pillow on the right, sconce art and side table 

pick up the the warm tones found in the wood floor and allow for a harmonious mix.)

Black adds glam to the combo, 

and although I may have chosen a slightly cooler tone for the walls,

those chairs are showstoppers, aren't they?

Turquoise plays well with fuchsia against a serene dove grey backdrop, 

because they are equal in saturation.

Just as the palest of pinks pairs perfectly with the palest of greys to create this tranquil space.

The pink is fairly dominant in these living/dining rooms at first glance,

 but it's actually only the sofa and flowers that are pink.

So much impact from one piece of furniture!

Look how differently the paint and sofa color appear in the different photos.

This is why you should never choose a paint color based solely on a photo!!!

(hmm... I smell a future post :)

and some pretty bits of high contrast...

so want that painting, top left.

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What do you think?

Would you ever use this combination?

Since they are so popular right now,

I think I'll do a few posts exploring grey based color schemes...

any particular one you'd like to see explored next?

So What Exactly Happens During a Color Consultation?

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As mentioned here,

I'm realizing that for anyone who hasn't had a Color Consultation they may need 

a better understanding of what I am providing to see the value of my services.

So let's take the mystery out of a 10 Rooms Color Consultation :)

Phase One 

 You call or email me.

Usually, my clients are people who have always done their own decorating,

 and are feeling frustrated with the results,

new home-owners who are just getting a feel for what their style is,

 or simply very busy people (who isn't, these days?) 

who do not have time evaluate which choices would suit them the best.

Often clients are about to, or have just made, some major furniture purchases

 and their home is feeling disconnected (from room-to-room).

Sometimes they have a particularly challenging space,

or they have had a life change and are looking for a fresh take.

In any case, I try to determine your motivation because that is what will drive your choices.

I ask a varied series of questions here.

Where is your home (country, city, suburb)?

What is the architecture like? Which direction does the space face?

What are your favourite colors? What style of decor do you prefer? etc..

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This allows me to prepare a collection of images -

"inspiration rooms" if you will,

that we can look through during the consultation to get a better feel for your desired result.

Phase Two

  I arrive on your doorstep, goodies in tow!

I generally like to see the space first,

then we go sit down and get a feel for what you need from the space.
I will ask you a lot of questions,
and we will look through the images I've brought along.

 This is where the four main factors come into play:

The Space Itself

Size, light, orientation, placement in the home, flow, existing finishes, furnishings, etc..

Desired Uses of the Space 

Time of day you will be using the space, relaxation vs. stimulation,
adult vs family, long-term vs short term decor, etc

Personality

Are you outgoing? Do you want an entertaining space that encourages lively conversation?

Are you looking for a retreat? A place to rejuvenate after a very busy workweek?

Do you prefer a more formal or relaxed style home? etc..


Preferences

Which colors do you prefer? How much color do you want to live with?

This sounds basic, but many times sitting down and actually defining these
 clearly gives a great base palette to work from.
Quite often, the original vision gets tweaked a little,
in the example we've added lavender.
Let's say it was existing already in the master bedroom and ensuite,
 and client loves the color.
She was suffering from overload, but adding a dash to the bedroom
allows her to keep some of her favourite color and helps the two rooms to relate better.

Phase Three

Now that I know where you need/want to go with this space,

we pull out the paint chips and get set choosing!

We will go through several different options here, for walls and trim.

I usually know we are on the right track when your face lights up!

It's that "aha" moment, where everything comes together.

I leave you with a Color Plan - 

paint chips and all the specifics (how much paint, which finish) for at least two options,

as well information regarding what preparation needs to be done to your walls prior to painting.
If you like, I will email you out some additional links to inspiration spaces
 that include your finalized color palette and suit the design direction you're taking.

Many times my clients are planning to do the work themselves,

 and simple prep ensures a proper finish.

If you have chosen to use a painter, I will be sure to offer choices in their preferred type of paint.

Phase Four

Your space is transformed :)

I charge $100.00 for the first room and $50.00 for each additional room to select paint colors.

Not bad, considering for the cost of a can of paint
 you can ensure total satisfaction the first time you paint - 

no more re-painting because that pretty sunny yellow paint chip you liked in the store

 has somehow morphed in screaming yellow lunacy on your walls!

Many times clients request advice for additional color choices, like carpet, upholstery, etc.

This is based on an hourly rate and varies depending on travel, etc.. 

 I once accompanied a client to her new home's design centre
 to help her choose all her finishes for a new build.

The sheer volume of options was overwhelming her, and in an hour

we had co-ordinated every single detail of her new home

(and convinced the builder to include a few upgrades).

Does knowing all this make the idea of a Color Consultation any more inviting?
A common worry is that your home will not reflect you, but someone else.

To be clear, I do not come over and force my choices or the trendiest colors on you.

My goal is always to find that unique solution
 that enhances your space,

reflects your personality, and makes you happy.

After several requests, I am now offering on-line color consultations as well.

If you are ready to find your perfect colors,

please email me at amezeard@10rooms.ca.

Crushing on Color: Poppy from Project Gadabout

Today's Crushing on Color post is brought to you by

the creative wonder,

Poppy of Project Gadabout.

The ceiling in my office is littered with lanterns.  

All different colors and sizes.  

It started off as a simple little collection and grew into something much bigger.  

What I love about the lanterns, is that when my day becomes to much, 

I take a moment, lay on the floor and drift away with my lanterns.

  

The best part is watching my cat Marmalade; 

somedays he is really determined to find a way to play with them.  

He has yet to succeed, but it’s fun watching him try. 

Plus my office is just a bottle of champagne and a 

few hors d'oeuvres away from being a cocktail party!

Organization is one of my hobbies (I know, it's a strange hobby).

 As a result, I take organization pretty seriously. 

So it's no surprise that most of my storage is colorful. 

It makes opening up my closet or glancing past my shelves

 a lot like stepping through a box of crayons. 

Oddly enough, it also helps me remember where I put things. 

Trust me, a color system is much more fun than numbers and boring labels.

It’s absolutely amazing how much fun a grocery list

 or to do list can be when you add a little color.  

I rarely use the typical; black, red or blue ink, 

I’m more of a Fandango Pink or Deep Sea Blue.  

I love taking notes or just doodling with a full array of colors at hand. 

As I’ve already mention before I love what bic is doing with the permanant marker.  

Copic is my personal favorite with their ability for great blending and shading.  

I’ve seen this tape used so many ways it’s impossible to not love it.  

From wrapping presents, a delightful border, 

or an amazing Art Installation, like the one found in the Kate Spade New York.  

In my office, however, we use it for amazing games of wall tick tac toe

 or just taping a co-worker to their seat. 

Though most recently it was used to add hopscotch

 in the hallway leading to the break room!  

It makes a typical day at work a little more entertaining.

Pantone is the expert on color.  

So it’s easy to see how they are a big part of my world.  

With the introduction of their iPhone App finding the perfect color

 on the go just got a lot easier. 

But my Pantone Eyewear is my personal favorite.  

One frame that will consistently fulfill your ever changing preference towards color.  

It’s like a mood ring but for eyewear. 

Pantone also offers a plethora of items for the home, 

from usb flash drivers to adorable mugs.  

But for most designers, amateur and professional, 

the Geo System and Guide has become their Bible of Color.

The eight year old in me was overjoyed when she discovered Make Up For Ever!  

They have a large color palette, that can inspire High Definition, Daring looks.  

I have to admit every once and a while I feel the need

 to let my inner eight year old out to play in my make up. 

So whether you are heading out to work or just spending a Saturday night in, 

Make Up For Ever is something you have to try. 

There are so many ways to brighten up your day so here are few more options to try.  

If you have to wear a uniform or color is frowned upon where you work, 

use your undergarments to brighten your day.  

Never underestimate the power of Yellow Panties. 

Reading glasses don’t have to be dowdy, so pick a fun fabulous pair. 

For more lovely ways to brighten up your day,

 stay tuned to Project Gadabout and 10 Rooms

 for More Captivating Color.

Poppy

The girl has some serious graphic design skills, yes?!
As if this post wasn't enough,
Poppy has provided me a gorgeous Shopping Guide for all of these goodies - 
heaps of secret sources that I did not know about...

head over to her post today to download it...


Project Gadabout is  such an entertaining, bubbly little spot -
it's like a girls night out in every post.
I am always amazed at Poppy's creativity and wit.


And that wraps up our Crushing on Color posts.


I can't thank these ladies enough for their time and effort,
and the fabulousness they have brought to the blog the past two weeks -
MWAH!


Since we've had such a great time with it, 
I'm thinking this may become a regular feature of the blog -
so if you are interested in guest posting,
let me know -
I'd love to hear about your love for color - 


be back next week - x am

Palm Beach Week: Lilly Pulitzer Love

Some people are one-of-a-kind.

They have that certain joie de vivre that inspires the rest of us.

Lilly Pulitzer is that kind of woman.

A New York native living in Palm Beach with her husband,

Lilly ran a juice stand at their orchards.

After creating some gloriously colored shifts that camouflage the inevitable splatters,

customers were so enamoured she had her dressmaker create extra

"Lillys" to sell at the store.

Later divorced and remarried, 

Lilly Rousseau continued operate her company under the Lilly Pulitzer name.

Her shifts were worn by everyone, 

including dear friend and First Lady Jackie Kennedy and her daughter Caroline.

In 1984 Lilly retired and closed down her clothing line,

but in 1993 it was revived and the Lilly Pulitzer empire now includes

homegoods, shoes, jewelry and mens clothing.

I've read and re-read her Guides to Colorful Entertaining and Colorful Holidays.

what comes across so clearly is how bright Lilly's spirit is.

As her son Peter says,

"mom has an amazing zest for life.

It's like a big hug."

Not one to get hung up on details,

 it's Lilly's "who gives a fig"attitude and her incredible hospitality

that has made every day a party, literally.

If you haven't read these books, go get them!

Her Palm Beach Store is the epitome of Lilly,

who said long ago that she had an aversion to

"people who didn't respond to her humor".

(Jay Mulvaney, Colorful Holidays)

Lilly Stills lives in Palm Beach, in her "jungle".

(although it has recently been listed for sale)

I love her.

Pop by tomorrow for Celerie Kemble gorgeousness,

another Palm Beach girl.

Weekend Color: Pantone's Color of the Year - Why It Is Important and Why It's Not

By now I'm sure you have heard about Pantone's color pick for 2011.

This is quite an energetic pink!

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Color is moving towards fresh, clean hues.

What exactly does that mean?

I discussed clean/dirty color here, if you'd like to read more about it.

I don't ever advise a client to fill their space with the latest and greatest color unless they truly LOVE it.

What happens next year?

If you are using this hue simply to be "on-trend" 

are you going to be satisfied when it no longer is the top color?

If you have created a fairly neutral shell, or you have used other clean colors that are roughly the same value, you can easily bring in vibrant pink accents.

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Domino

I think the we should look at the entire palette from Pantone

 to get a clearer sense of what is happening with color.

The silver cloud and silver peony are still holding the grey and blush front.

I wouldn't place Silver peony with any of these other colors 

because it simply is not saturated enough to hold it's own.

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Russet is signalling an influx of brown - we need something to balance out all this freshness.

In interiors that signals a return to brown woods, rather than all the grey tones we have been seeing.

Domino

The remaining seven hues are all similar in their intensity and clean tones.

You could place any of these in space together and they would work.

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Blue Curacao is a softer version of last years turquoise.

I love the regatta blue - it's time to bring blue back from the green side :) 

Honeysuckle, which looks so vibrant when examined alone, 

fits in to this group without stealing the show.

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Pantone's color choices give us a look toward the future,

they interpret our societies emotional climate and the colors reflect it.

It seems right now people are quite ready for a bit of light-hearted fun.

Honeysuckle - will you use it?

til next time..