JANUARY DESIGN TIP

Out With the Old, In With the New
Must Have Items for Decorating in 2009

Try a colored chandelier in just about any room in the house to add that little bit of Pizzazz. One of the newest trims is colored crystals, including black, red and blue, says Frank Fontana, host of HGTV’s Design on a Dime.

Bamboo is making quite an impact on the eco friendly design world. Once only seen in pots holding Bamboo Sticks, you now see it every where from flooring to wall coverings to linens and towels.

Free standing Bathtubs are in many new homes the focal point of the bathroom. Claw footed tubs are being replaced by new flat bottom sleek versions to give a contemporary feel.

Midlevel Vessel sinks will compliment your new freestanding tub in addition to giving your bath a spa like atmosphere.

Wallpaper is making a comeback. Textures such as grass cloth and flocked wallpapers
And patterns are popular among designers. While kitchens and baths use to be the popular spots to paper you will now see a lot of accent walls and niches papered.

With Condo living becoming popular there is a trend in multipurpose furniture designed for small spaces. Murphy Beds and Daybeds allow rooms to have multi functions. Coffee tables designed to convert into computer workstations along with Coffee tables that house additional seating underneath are a must have in a tiny space.

Kitchens take on a sleek new look with Espresso Cabinets. Over the counter cabinets are being replaced with open shelving giving the kitchen very contemporary European feel. This look however is not for everyone. If you are a clutter bug or own a conglomeration of mixed matched dishes you may want to stick to the old cabinets that hide a multitude of sins.

If remodeling is not in the budget but you desire a new look painting is your answer. Hot colors for the New Year include Charcoal Grey, Navy Blue and don’t count out Browns and Blues just yet. The 2009 version is Espresso and Peacock Blue and opposed to Chocolates and Teals.

Source: design.hgtv.com