Number 1 New Year’s Interior Design Resolution

What is the best thing one can do for almost any interior?  Un-decorate.  Huh?  And this comes from an interior designer?  Absolutely.

It’s easy to get caught up in over-buying and over-decorating.  For many it’s a holdover from childhood when our grandmothers or mothers had rooms so “done” (regardless of income level – it was fab for them) we could barely sit down.  “Don’t sit on those (velvet swivel chairs), they are for adults only.”  Yeah, a tactile chair with a swivel – this is a kid magnet!

The focus for 2011 is simplification.  Homes need to be easy, functional, welcoming and promote comfort.  One simple way to handle this is to un-decorate existing rooms.

Above 2 photos via Sherrill Canet Interiors

How does one un-decorate?

• Simple color schemes using one or two main colors.
• Solid fabrics on large pieces of upholstery.
• Nix the knick-knacks and can the clutter.
• Un-fuss the fuss.  No bows, ruffles, or endless throw pillows.
• Simple window treatments and only when necessary.  This may mean removal of dated over-done, over-patterned swaggy not-for-this-century drapery.
• Embrace open space – on walls, tables and floors.
• Determine a theme or style for the room/home and remove everything which does not support it.  (Bu-bye trophies and memorabilia from days long ago.)

Consider “nothing” your new home decor tool.  “What goes there?”  Nothing.  Allowing open or empty spaces gives the feeling of luxury and even glamor more than over stuffing with “stuff.”  Check out this awesome space in Australia – they get it.  Space is a luxury one must celebrate not fill to achieve comfort in a home.   So, once 2011 is here grab a glass of pink champagne, get busy and un-decorate!