Things That Go Together

I’ve always been fascinated by flowers that draw matching pollinators. They look like they go together. On the other hand, do you think a flower might feel upstaged in the company of one as lovely as this butterfly?

Matching clothes, colors or styles has never been of great interest to me. I’m much more interested in the juxtaposition of multiple colors and patterns. There’s excitement when different personalities intersect. In home decor, it might be called eclectic taste. Many dabble in it, but few are able to pull it off-as mix and match doesn’t always have a happy ending.

For a few years, now, we’ve been unable to find two nightstands for our bedroom. As with our floor lamp search. I’ve begun to think that there’s room for greater “maker” creativity in both categories. And, as I said, I don’t really want things that match. Maybe two different vanities all together?

Notice the two basic colors that permeate: grey and orange. They provide a unifying backdrop for all the miscellaneous elements. That and a lot of light. Light is a great promoter for those of us with an eclectic bent.

When faced with making changes, it’s always helpful to look at what others have done. Great artists have done this for centuries.

I found a few options for you to look at. This time of year, just before the outdoors takes hold in earnest, I start to look around at inside spaces that need freshening up. Even if it doesn’t happen right away- there’s food for thought. Here’s some visual ideas for you.

Check out these photos on eclectic living rooms.

Tips for mixing styles. Without looking like a crazy person.. Sometimes, it’s important to maintain the veneer of normalcy.

Choosing furniture that goes together -Architect Oriana Gomez-Zerpa

OMG, Eclectic Bohemian! I bought a bag in Italy just this color green. LOVE the couch! The Picasso-esque painting doesn’t hurt either.

Oriana also offers tips for DYI tile laying. Not something I’ve ever aspired too but I know many who are. Have you tried?

Installing porcelain in the bathroom

If you too like to “look” try the ICFF show on May 21- 24, at the Javitts in NYC -North America’s platform for global design. We make an annual pilgrimage to see what’s new and happening. Try it out, you may find it inspirational too!

The fascinating skunk cabbage flower.

I’m no less fascinated by seeing what’s emerging out- of -doors this year, here in Litchfield, CT. I just raked the first flower garden and sure enough, the bulbs are re-appearing. Can’t wait to see the new ones. And, then there’s the skunk cabbage- nature’s launch pad- fully erupted for emerging insects on patrol. Wonderfully bizarre.

Seeing nature’s beauty year round is ALWAYS an option for Paola Pillow fans…Today’s pillows Palm and Woodland work well together as early spring colors. Truthfully, I enjoy them all year.