Going Beyond Red & Green: Bringing A New Feel to Holiday Décor

I have a fun guest today teaching all of us a little bit about holiday colors and how we can incorporate different color scheme's into our holiday decor. I hope you enjoy!!

Dagmar Obert is a designer for Balsam Hill with over two decades of experience transforming homes into spaces that reflect comfort and elegance. More of her how-to guides and inspiration articles on decorating and entertaining can be found here. You can follow her on Pinterest and Houzz.

********************************************************************************************************************************

Some things about the holidays should remain constant. A tree, wreaths, candles, string lights; these are all essential to a well decorated home. But who’s to say your color palette can’t change as often as the seasons? There’s a way to incorporate the most unexpected color choices into winter décor; just as long as you have those basics, the accents you add in will be just as appropriate (and a lot more interesting) as the red and green you’ve been sticking to year after year.

Gold and Cream

If you want a classic palette, then you can never go wrong with gold and cream pieces. The elegance and timelessness of metallics isn’t to be questioned, and they look lovely when added in to almost any decorative style. Just make sure you eliminate as many other colors as possible; that winter wonderland effect is much easier to achieve when you tuck away your brightly colored accessories in favor of a more muted palette.

 1. Sunburst Mirror 2. Pinecone Stocking 3. Antler Candle 4. Deer Figurines 5. Gold Chargers

Turquoise and Brown

If you’re a little tired of the more traditional motifs, then branch out a little by choosing pieces that are a subtler call-out to the season. In this color combination, rustic wood tones are nicely balanced by faceted or glittery glass. They’re both an understated nod to that cheery wintery look; no need for elf figurines to get the point across. A roaring fire and some hot drinks on that tray will complete the picture of sophisticated, modern festivity.

 1. Reclaimed Wood Tray 2. Faceted Vase 3. Wood Grain Wrapping Paper 4. Wood Bowl 5. Fish Ornament

Pink and Orange

If you want to try a color palette that’s even more outside the box, then why not be a pioneer and incorporate pink, the new Pantone color for 2014, into your holiday décor? And punchy, bright orange is the perfect complement to add into the mix. The combo is normally pretty summery, so be careful not to go overboard. The key here is to incorporate plenty of evergreen foliage along with white or metallic pieces, just using these brighter colors as the final layer of accents. This maintains the seasonal look, but adds a playful and energizing twist.

 1. Plaid Blanket 2. Dessert Plates 3. Lacquered Tray 4. Dinosaur Ornament 5. Lowball Glasses

*******************************************************************************

What do you all think? Could you try one of these fun color scheme's in your home or do you go for more of the traditional red, green & white?

Thanks Dagmar for giving us some fabulous holiday inspiration!

Fall Color Trend- Shades of Purple

I know what you all are thinking..."How can we add purple into our home decor without making it look too girly?" There are so many ways to add different shades of purple to make your space feel cozy and sophisticated without making it juvenile and girly. I for one am not a HUGE fan of purple, but often like shades of lilac, plum and lavender in my closet.

After seeing these paint colors in the new issue of Better Homes and Gardens it was confirmed that you will be seeing shades of purple a little more this fall. So lets take a look at some spaces where purple is being used in classy ways.

BHG

This room I love because the shade of purple is very subtle. Can you see it? The dark Plum quilt creates a cozy and rich feel to this space. 

This idea isn't very subtle, but sure makes a pretty statement. A little collection of lilac bottles really pops against the white built ins.

via

You all know that I love me some yellow and when paired with this beautiful shade of grayish purple it really creates a warm space. Pairing cool colors with warm colors says balanced and inviting. 

via

Another fabulous layering of purples, plums, yellows, and oranges within the wallpaper, lamps and bedding.

via

Purple is done very elegantly in this space. Don't you feel sophisticated just viewing this room? You don't have to add such an huge impact with the purple chairs, but I am loving the oriental rug that has shades of purple which you could pull from by adding a throw or pillow. 

via

I really love this regal feel when dark plum is paired with touches of gold. There are definitely some traditional elements to this room, but also some glamour chic. Loving the mix!

BHG

This is definitely one of my favorites spaces when we talk about adding shades of purple. You don't have to make a large impact by painting your walls purple or even purchasing expensive bedding...how about just adding some inexpensive pillows in shades of plum and burgundy. You can then change the pillows out when you are sick of the color or with the change of seasons.

So what do you all think? Could you jump on the shades of purple bandwagon this Fall?

Happy Hump Day All!