OK, so we are in the middle of another Minnesota snowstorm and I have white on my brain, Anyhu - here I go.
A monochromatic background needs some skillful help to not be perceived as bland. Various shades of white with loads of textures will keep it interesting. Texture will add a dimension to an otherwise flat color scheme - now you see depth and definition. Keeping it still neutral - you can bring in organic materials from the natural world outside , which is quite plentiful here in Northern Minnesota and for the most part free. Some pieces of wooden furniture sprinkled with age and wear add character, worn upholstery on the other hand
is just tacky and altogether gross. Can you add rustic pieces to a sleek modern design? Please do! It will help the over all impression to go from cold to comfortable.
As soon as the snow melts (again) I will be starting my forest quest hunting for flowering branches and pussy willows. Add in some slender reeds, budding cat tails and native grasses. However, it doesn't look like that will be anytime in the near future.
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Kathleen, we had surprise snow for 2 days this week here in Portland too! I like the idea of mixing old furniture with character to modern sleek things to bring in warmth. Thanks for a fun post.
Kathleen, sorry, but we hit 80 today here in north GA. The AC has been running today. Best to you in 2009! You're in a business that's needed in today's market. Staging Sells Homes!
Beautiful picture. We had snow last night, but sunshine today-Dinah Lee
Hi Kathleen,
Our last batch of snow just melted and I noticed forsythia with big fat buds on it yesterday, Spring is just around the corner.
And I agree, the best way to warm up white, other than colorful art is with texture. Wicker, wood and rustic. I love an eclectic mix, it doesn't look so "staged", it looks authentic. Thanks for the lovely photo!
Would you believe it was 80 degrees in Atlanta today? Everything is in bloom! Maybe you should consider a move down south.
Kathleen, We had 2 days here of 60+ degree weather....and then it dropped 20. But just enough to know Spring IS on the way!
Kathleen, I also run the forests looking for neat things for in a vase. My wife thinks I am a bit KOOKY, but she thinks that most of the time!
I really like that picture! I am looking forward to seeing buds on the trees too! I have plenty of sticks left from the ice storm, but nothing with any life on it. It was in the 70's here in Kentucky today - I hate to get my hopes up! I am really ready for Spring!
Love the photo and any white blossoms! I will try to snap the white blossoms on the cherry trees in our neighborhood tomorrow.
So this is how in your neck of the woods you make lemonade from lemons!
Thanks for the beautiful photo...which also illustrates the contribution of contrast in a monochromatic scheme.
Kathleen--Neutral is great but too much white makes it hard for a photo to pop and gain interest! Love your accent ideas. Hopefully we are seeing more green soon!
Those look like snapdragons. I love snapdragons. My marketing guru got me interested in nature. I particularly like snapdragons, pansies, petunias, fuchsias, azaleas, rhododendrons, hyacinths, roses, and hybiscus. Hmmmmmm. If I come up with just one more, I can do a Top 10 list for the Top 10 Group -- LOL.
Kathleen,
Us Minnesotans need to hang in there. Upper 40's are coming next week.
Maureen - I too like to mix things up a little and put in something a bit unexpected but that may well evoke a good emotional response from the past. I have an old black desk rotary dial phone that is great for a home office
John - I am so sorry that you have to endure such nice weather!
Thanks for the :
You're in a business that's needed in today's market. Staging Sells Homes!
Dinah Lee - sounds like you get some weather fluctuations there as well.
Kathleen, I like how you describe in both color and texture. I'm just now realizing how much fun you can have decorating with both!
It is fun isn't it!
My daughter claims she gets a buzz from organizing for others - she loves it.
Great point! Just be careful of the cattails, or maybe you already know about them...I had them EXPLODE once, many years ago when I cut at the wrong time!
Cheryl - they can explode & do it well!!!! I spray mine with hairspray before that point but still..............