Trend Alert: New Colour for 2012 is.....

The Panton Colour Institute has just announced that the 'official' hot colour for the year 2012 is....Tangerine Tango.

A Pantonerep describes the colour as "sophisticated yet at the same time dramatic and seductive, Tangerine Tango is an orange with a lot of depth to it. Reminiscent of the radiant shadings of a sunset, Tangerine Tango marries the vivaciousness and adrenaline rush of red and the friendliness and warmth of yellow, to form high-visibility, magnetic hue that emanates heat and energy"

What do you think of this colour? Would you use it in your home? If so, how and where?

Great Christmas Gift Ideas

Well it's a busy time of year - the holiday season! It can be expensive and stressful too. I find an early start is a great way to keep the stress low but if you can't do that (time or finances perhaps) think about gift ideas in advance and don't for get to get creative!!

I've started my shopping and I'm almost done - how about you? I was able to get a head start online which is so great as many stores have great deals on shipping. My husband's family is mostly out of town and so shipping can be pricey.

I've really tried to stay out of the malls (sometimes it's unavoidable) but I spent a lot of time actually thinking about what I wanted to get my friends and family this Christmas to help me get a head start. I knew I would have limited time if I was out with the kids, so a list really helped!

Some of my family members and friends have moved so I wanted to get them items to make their new home feel cozy and inviting. So I have looked at some luxurious blankets and pillows and some beautiful coffee table books.

Books are something I love to give! Whether it's adults, teens or children. Books are fun, interesting and beautiful.

For kids - try giving them an activity instead of a movie or video game. I gave my niece and nephew some great science and art projects. They are fun! They keep them busy! and, I was surprised how much you can get for so little!

But for others - I really thought about them; what they like, what they need and what they would really enjoy. Or maybe treat them to something special - like a massage or a fabulous dinner.

When my sister and brother-in-law lived here, we didn't do a gift exchange, we went out for a amazing dinner and of course, wine and had an incredible night out. That was one of my favourite gifts to give!

Or, try getting a head start! This summer, during our holiday visiting my sister-in-law and her kids I contacted a local photographer to take some family photos. I framed the photos and sent them out to the grandparents. I know they will love them! And, I was able to buy them in August!

Think about creating a basket with items that the recipient will love - snacks, drinks, ornaments etc....go with a theme and get fun!

Or give a friend or family member a break and get them a cleaning service for the day. Perfect for new moms too!

Or get a great basket for the whole family - a basket with board games and snacks - a tone of fun for everyone!!

whatever you do for the holidays remember it's not about the money it really is the thought!

Changing with the Season

"I fell for this year's trends of paint and furniture - filling my home with sleek furniture and painting my whole home in cool white and grey tones - it's very chic but a bit sparse and gallery-like. Now that the cold weather is on it's way and the snow is starting to fall, I'm concerned that my home will feel chilly and uninviting in the cold and dark winter months. I don't want to repaint and redecorate but I'm worried I may have to....what can I do to warm up the look (and feel) of my home?"

There are lots of options for you. Sometimes when we follow trends they may take us in a direction and leave us feeling a bit uncomfortable. But relax, there are some very simple solutions for your dilemma and your space will feel so comfortable and warm for both you and your guests.

Follow these three elements.

Nature

Any and all natural elements add instant warmth to any space. So try integrating a few organic elements to your space. Try adding greenery - anytime you add plants or flowers, it adds life to your space. Try something easy to take care of (especially if you are not a gardener at heart). Natural grasses, ferns, peace lilies are all great options. Look for something full and lush not spiky and sparse. for special occasions, opt for fresh cut flowers. Other ways to add natural elements? Woven place mats, rattan baskets to hold extra blankets, a wood coffee table or end tables, a stump side table. Look for bowls or trays made of natural wood, or even just some sculptural wood pieces to display on your coffee table, console table or bookcase. The options are endless.

Props

Add some softness. Adding soft texture to any space equal warmth (the colour isn't even a factor). Look for chunky woven pillows, a cashmere blanket, or a sheepskin throw or area rug. Deep colours (like eggplant purple, chocolate brown and brunt deep red) work will all neutrals and add richness and sophistication to any room. An area rug can add colour, pattern and texture but something neutral is best. Accessories like books, can add personality to the space.

Lighting

mixing up your lighting can really create ambiance in any room. Invest in dimmer switches - in the evening 100 watt bulbs can be awfully harsh. Add floor and table lamps, candles, pot lights - the idea is to layer your lighting so that you can achieve any look you desire at any point in the day.

Making a room feel warm does not mean we need to work within a certain colour palette, it is creating the sensation of warmth and comfort. By following the three above mentioned elements you can add warmth to any room in your home regardless of the colour on the walls.