Published: December 27, 2010, By Abbe Fenimore

Guest Blogger: {Shoebox Decor}

I’ve shut down the Studio this week to spend time with my family and to prepare for the year ahead.  While I am out, I thought it would be nice to have guest bloggers instead of leaving the blog on vacation as well.  I have lined up 6 days of guest bloggers and the topic I asked them to focus on is: What are you most looking forward to for 2011?  The bloggers can focus on design, color, style or personal topics. I can’t wait to see what everyone comes up with. Enjoy and I’ll see back here January 3rd!

So today we start the guest blogger series and are excited to welcome Typhanie from SHOEBOX DECOR!   Shoebox Decor is full of great how-to’s, design inspiration and easy ways to implement affordable style in your home without breaking the bank!

Three Top Trends of 2011

Here are three trends in design that I’m looking forward to in 2011. They are in no particular order except for number one because I think vintage is always in style.

1. Vintage: As we all know we are still in a bit of a recession so feel free to pull out your grandmothers’ hand me down wingback chair and turn that neglected baby into a one of a kind show stopper. I love redoing vintage furniture because you can create something very unique on a very small budget. Whether it’s sanding and painting a Goodwill desk or reupholstering a craigslist find, redesigning vintage pieces will be a staple in 2011. I suggest picking up “TheFind” by Stan Williams to boost your inspiration in the New Year.

(Small Space Tip: Use rugs with bold colors or patterns to define and anchor your rooms.)

2. Honeysuckle: Remember when pink was a standard not a question? Well thanks to Pantone this will be true again. The Barbie in me was so excited when they announced Honeysuckle as the 2011 color of the year. You just don’t know how long I’ve been waiting for an excuse to use pink any and every where I can. The sad thing is, in design this color should be used cautiously and sporadically. A hint of pink on the walls, accent pillows or an area rug will do the trick. Avoid the desire to go full Barbie Dream House if you can. This is especially true if decorating for both sexes. The man in your life may not quite understand if he comes home to Honeysuckle Striped Walls.

(Small Space Tip: Make the largest wall in your small space an accent wall and your home will look a great deal bigger)

3. Wallpaper: Paint or wallpaper is always a big question for home owners when redesigning. With great new geometric patterns and vibrant colors on the market wallpaper will be making a comeback for home owners in 2011. I know there are a number of factors that go into making that decision but if price and maintenance aren’t an issue then bring out the rolls and plaster. To add more drama to your home (drama is always in style) choose wallpaper that has texture, beading, or even sequins. I myself am a big fan of linen paintable wallpaper and expect to see a lot more of it in 2011.

(Small Space Tip: Use a combo of wallpaper and paint to define the different rooms in your home.)

Well those are my top three trends for 2011. I hope you enjoy them but most of all I hope you enjoy redesigning your home in the coming New Year. If you would like more small space tips and DIY projects make sure to check out Shoebox Décor…Happy New Year Everyone!