Nicki, the Spokesdog, Says Hello

While I was in the great town of High Point, NC this weekend to attend the Fall 2011 Furniture Market, I saw a black standard poodle all dolled up with bows in her ears and painted toenails.  She was serving as the spokesdog for a furniture company!

When I told Nicki about this, she was very jealous and insisted on getting some face-time here on my blog.  She said she hadn't been well represented recently.  And I agree!  So here's a cute picture of Nicki to start off your work week. 

And be sure to check back later this week when I post pictures and commentary from my travels to High Point...

Falling for More 2012 Color Trends

Benjamin Moore just posted 4 color trends for 2012, so I thought I'd piggyback on last week's post and share them with you! 

Falling for Fall Color Changes

Now that fall is officially in full swing, nature is beginning her annual change of colors.  There is nothing like the vibrant reds, oranges and yellows of leaves turning on a gorgeous, sunny fall afternoon!

Recently, while in Pittsburgh, PA (my home away from home) picking up a gallon of Pony Tail (#315-4) paint for a client, I was browsing the PPG Pittsburgh Paints display at Rollier's Hardware.  I always welcome design inspiration as well as insights from my favorite vendors as to the upcoming trends, be it furniture, fabrics, lighting or, in this case, paint!  I picked up a fabulous little brochure entitled "Wow Color Now; Color Trends 2011/2012."  This brochure features 4 color schemes that Pittsburgh Paints chose to say "color is back in a big way!"  They go on to explain that "we are rediscovering the joy, beauty and optimism that we need to overcome adversity, and our color choices for home will reflect that.  We see trends gravitating towards deep, bold and bright colors to invigorate the greys and beiges of past years.  The headwind of color enthusiasm will encourage us to make highly charged personal choices like lipstick reds and azure blues, setting the stage for a vibrant 2011 and 2012."

Below, I have featured their 4 schemes - Instinct, Glamour, New Bohemia and UpCycle - below.  Which is your favorite?

P.S.  Nicki says "hi" and sends her love as the Inspired Interiors official "spokesdog."  You'll be hearing more from her soon.