The past few days have been heavenly for me. I want to stop every few minutes and take a snapshot of the gorgeous autumn palette that is around me. These colours make my heart race and often bring tears of joy with their honest and vivid beauty. A little over the top? I hope not! Fall is the most beautiful time of the year and I decorate my home in hues of green, red and yellow so that I can keep it with me all seasons. When you are driving home this evening take a look at the vividness of the yellow leaves in the setting sun…that is MY colour! Well, you can always borrow it but remember that I loved it first.
There should always be elements in your home that make you feel like this, perhaps a little crazy. If you walk through your house without inspiration or joy you probably need a pick me up. There should be at least one inspirational piece or colour in your home that lights you up like a Christmas tree every time you look at it. For me it is a piece of original artwork by a dear lady from Medicine Hat, Evelyn Klies. I have probably spoken of this artwork before because it continues to bring me joy even after owning for over a decade. The yellow I was gushing about earlier is in that painting and its vividness makes me so very happy. That is how buying an inspiration piece that you love will inspire and revitalize you. Every home should have this.
Many people fear making the wrong decision but you absolutely cannot go wrong when you pick pieces or colours that cause a physical reaction. When I first saw the Warrior (that is the name of my beloved painting), it was hanging in a coffee shop in a stairwell. I walked past and stopped dead in my tracks – I could not take my eyes off of it! My pulse actually sped up as I studied the intricacies and depth of the multi-media painting. It was love at first sight and has been in my life ever since.
Your inspiration may not come from the art world. I have witnessed many clients’ passions as they show me treasures from trips abroad, artwork from their children or even a beautiful pair of shoes. Yes, I have seen shoes used as design elements. They were so beautiful they deserved to be displayed. You may be smitten by a beautiful stone you found hiking which now adorns your front yard or you may have a collection of marbles from childhood or seashells from your recent vacation. All of these things give you pure joy and should be close at hand for you to see or feel every day.
Design isn’t solely about matching everything perfectly; it is also about creating a space that is uniquely you. A space which envelops you on the difficult days like a long hug from your mom and a space that cradles you when you are weary from the events of the day. Personally chosen items which cause emotion to rise up in you will help complete your home. Those elements you love will be there every day like a faithful friend waiting for your arrival.
Kim Lewis is an interior designer in Red Deer with Carpet Colour Centre. Contact her at 403-343-7711 ext 227 or email her at klewis@carpetcolourcentre.com.
