Color Trends

            I recently had the opportunity to attend a color trends presentation by Benjamin Moore. They have an incredible team of researchers who spend countless hours pulling information, attending shows and talking with designers to determine what the color trends for the future will be. Here are their predictions for the upcoming color trends.

 

Eco Trend: Flora and fauna, water and sky, moss and rock. Nature’s elements unite in a style-savvy look that transcends is organic roots. Refreshing white and blue balance the palette, offering a calm, relaxing respite from the busy world.

 

Casual Glam Trend: Mix it up! This diverse palette offers a clean, tailored look that works well with any decore. A blend of carefree with chic, cool with warm, the effect is fresh and very enticing.

 

Urban Trend: Well-seasoned hues offer a refined perspective. Rich espresso blends naturally with smooth stone and soft graphite tones. A cool amethyst lends added depth, while a hint of spice provides the perfect “kick” that wakes up the room.

 

Heritage Trend: Timeless hues-epic, yet completely modern. Restrained gray, aged blue and red clay pair beautifully with rich cream and antique white. Sensibly appointed, they make an established home feel contemporary…and a new one a little more worldly.

 

Many thanks to Benjamin Moore for their work and for sharing the information. Whether you are creating a new space or just trying to pull together your existing space, use this cutting edge information and you are sure to hit a home run. You can view more details on their website at www.benjaminmoore.com/colortrends

 

Surviving a Kitchen Remodel: Part 5

Over the past weeks we have explored some of the items that can help make a kitchen remodel survivable. In our last segment, we will explore possibly the most important element, how to keep the peace. Kitchen remodels are hard enough without adding additional drama. We discussed relationships with your family in Part 1, but here are a few tips for dealing with your neighbors and the construction workers.

 

• Keep your neighbors in the loop. Keep them appraised of your start date, approximate completion date, what work will be done and if any worker may need to come onto their property. Be sure to communicate any unforeseen delays.
• Make sure power tools are only used during normal business hours. Monday thru Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nothing will ruin your neighborly relationship more than waking their baby early in the morning.
• Ask subcontractors to park in front of your house only, if possible. If additional parking space is needed, be sure to get the ok from your neighbors for their street parking space.
• Keep the exterior of the house neat. Nobody likes an eyesore and construction sites can quickly become that if the trash is not corralled.
• Coffee and donuts, cookies and Cokes. These small gestures will go a long way in building morale with construction workers and really don’t cost a whole lot. A good attitude from them will only ensure that your job will be completed with quality and in a timely fashion.