IO, Author at Decor Isabelle

October 11, 2017 By IO

3 new ways to create wall-to-wall “wow!”

Decor Isabelle wall mural blog image Transforming a space often starts with the walls. You can take a room from “ho hum” to “va-va-voom” with a few brush strokes of new paint or the perfect wallpaper. Both are excellent options that offer immediate results. As an interior decorator, I’m always on the lookout for the latest trends that help elevate my clients’ projects. This includes new ways to look at walls.

I’m excited to tell you about three innovative wallcoverings that help create wall-to-wall “wow!”

Digital print wallpaper

If a picture is worth a thousand words, a wall mural is a great way to start a conversation. This isn’t your dad’s “deer in the woods” mural from the 1970’s. Today’s digital print wallpaper injects hi-res impact. Select imagery from a curated image library, or from your personal photos to create a space as unique as you.

Dry erase wall covering

Boost brainstorming and productivity by turning your entire wall into a dry erase board – REALLY! There are options for high gloss, low gloss (works great with LCD projectors), and even magnetic dry erase wallcoverings. Dry erase is a great option for the office, in a classroom, or for a busy household.

Dry erase wall paint

Dry erase wall paint is an excellent alternative to the dry erase wallcoverings described above. Apply it directly over your current wall color to convert a traditional wall into a dry erase board. A bonus benefit is that it also avoids the health hazards and mess associated with chalkboard paint.

Whether your goal is high impact or interactive idea-sharing, these are three excellent options to consider.

Ready to transform your walls?

If you’d like to learn more about incorporating one of these wall coverings into your design project, let’s connect. You’ll also save 20% if purchased by Nov. 15, 2017!

Thank you to Prime Walls, a company whose materials and techniques are redefining excellence in wall coverings, for contributing their expertise and imagery to this article.

August 30, 2017 By IO

3 Ways to Warm Up Your Decor As Summer Cools Down

The long weekend is almost here, which means summer is almost over. Of course, I never consider it to be officially over until it’s too cool outside for me to wear my sandals! Even so, I have to admit that my excitement for autumn’s arrival is building as I see gorgeous colours and textures for fall from some of my favorite fabric and decor suppliers.

Here are 3 ways you can enjoy both seasons in your home or cottage — that is until the dipping temperatures say it’s time to put away our favorite summer things and pull out those close-toed shoes and boots!

Cuddle up to fabric

Warm up to fall with fabrics in seasonal colours so rich they remind you of a drive through the escarpment in October. You prefer a more subdued colour scheme? Create a cozy feeling with textured fabrics like scrumptious velvets or chunky cable knits.

Layer it on

If summer’s all about taking it off, fall is when we layer it on. Now’s the time to invest in a good quality area rug, or layer two rugs for a modern effect! Another way you can add warmth is with cashmere or faux fur throw blankets.

Blush on

Pink has been a popular color this year (see my “Color Me Pink” blog post). As temperatures cool down, the forecast is for blush tones to continue to be hot. A fall favorite is Benjamin Moore’s Tissue Pink so look for it, or versions of it, on rugs, furniture, decor and more.

May 23, 2017 By IO

Going Coastal

I recently enjoyed some R&R along the Carolina shore. What a goldmine of design inspiration! From delicate seashells and windswept dunes to brilliant sunsets, the options to create your own seaside oasis are endless. Even so, it can be a fine line between going coastal and turning your home into a Key West beach bar. Let’s face it, parrots and palm trees should be kept on Hawaiian shirts –not in your living room! To help avoid potential décor disaster, here are a few tips on creating that laid-back beachy style for yourself.

Coastal Colors

Whether you prefer beachy hues in soft neutrals or more saturated colors, look to nature to help guide your coastal color palette:

Weathered driftwood and sandy beaches

Beautiful turquoise waters

I personally love Benjamin Moore Calypso Blue 727. Here, you can see it adds a bright, vibrant energy to this dining room, especially paired with modern green.

Soft sea glass greens & blues

Capture the colors of sea glass with these Benjamin Moore coastal colors: sea glass and BM paint colours

Keep it Natural

Nothing says coastal style like rattan, jute, sisal, linen. Luckily, there are loads of options to help inject these natural fibers into your design.

Select laid-back furniture in crisp cotton or linen fabrics.

Invest in rattan or cane furniture. Keep it comfy and classic – nothing too formal.

Treasure Chest

The options to add images and accessories that speak to your coastal style are practically unlimited. Whether it’s on a seashell-encrusted pillow or a piece of art, this is where your personality really shines through.

coastal accessories

If you’re feeling inspired, contact me today for more decor and design ideas to help bring the beach to you!

April 6, 2017 By IO

Color Me Pink in 2017

Warm up your space with one of spring’s hottest hues

April is one of my favorite months. It’s when we say “bye-bye winter blues” and “hello spring!” Luckily, one of this season’s hottest color trends makes it easy to add springtime warmth to your interior space. I’m talking about a garden of rose-toned hues.

This isn’t your typical cotton-candy pink…far from it. The rose tones of 2017 are serene and sophisticated. “Pink Bliss” from Benjamin Moore’s 2017 Color Trends Palette is a great example. From living rooms and bedrooms that glow with just a whisper of rose on the walls, to accessories and textiles, these pinks, blushes, roses and corals can be used everywhere. There’s inspiration everywhere I look. Here are a few “think pink” home runs:

A pop of pink and mix of textures and prints gives a neutral sofa personality.

Pink Bliss adds soft serenity to a bedroom.

Photo by Castro Design Studio – Discover traditional bedroom design inspiration