Although it is cold and snowy here in New York, my wish for you is a very bright 2014! So here are some colorful items to inject energy and joy into your home this year:

Who doesn’t love a swivel chair? Company C makes them in every possible hue:

The ultimate boho chic ottoman, by Ronna Griest for Massoud Furniture:

 The Zoia cabinet from Horchow could work as a media console, a buffet table or beside a bed:

Check out the incredible color and pattern on this Stacy Garcia carpet. It is meant for hotels, but I’d use it as a staircase runner:

This headboard by John Robshaw is divine, in your choice of one of his beautiful Indian fabrics:

Gorgeous dishes from Anna’s Palette, from Anna Weatherley, are made to mix-and match:

The No. 9 fabric collection from Jim Thompson (on the chair below, and on the furniture at the top of the post) is full of Asian-influenced patterns in bold color combinations:

May the year ahead be full of joy, happiness, and lots of color!

I’m currently working on the interiors of a charming beach house for a young family who has a love of color. Here is what I’ve pulled together so far…

Inspirations:

I think the use of color in this seaside home is wonderful (from New York Spaces magazine).  Since my clients are urban New Yorkers, I think the home should be a relaxed and beachey, but also a little funky and unexpected.

In Feng Shui, the shape of the octagon represents balance. I’d love to use this coffee table from Room Service  in the living room…

 along with a fabulous tufted sofa in burnt orange velvet. (If you are familiar with Feng Shui and want to bring “Earth” element remedy into your home — which is grounding and comforting — this is a perfect color.)

In the dining room (or maybe the screened porch) I’m starting with this fixture from Curry & Co. (The turquoise blue beading represents the “Water” element in Feng Shui – good for abundance.)

                   It would be great over a simple zinc table like this from Home Decorators. (Zinc is a good “Metal” remedy and protects health.)

This festive bamboo dinnerware from Viva Terra  fits beautifully (and in Feng Shui, its a nice “Wood” remedy – health):

For the kids playroom,  I am considering the classic Mah Jong modular seating from Roche Bobois – comfy and cool.

My clients recently had a baby girl, and based on her birthday, her Feng Shui element is “Fire”. Therefore, the best colors for her room are fire-tones of red, purple or hot pink. This bed  is perfect. (Yes its big, but she can grow into it)! 

 For the kids rooms, the eco friendly Indi B kids rugs are so sweet and totally safe:

 I would like to turn a small space at the top of the stairs into a reading nook something like this (by Ann Wolf):

Check back for Part 2 of this project, including colorful outdoor furniture, and great accessories for the bathroom and kitchen.

If you have any “bright” ideas to offer, feel free to share!