Color Outside of the Lines

Clever Fabric Use

Thinking outside of the box doesn’t always mean space-age concepts and out-of-this-world ideas. The ability to balance peculiar thinking with core design principles is what separates great interior design from the average.

If you’re not renowned for your creativity, don’t fret. Many of us are not.

The simplest way to overcome this obstacle is to scan home design and decor magazines and/or websites to get a better idea of what style suits you best. There are almost as many publications and sites covering as many design styles as there are colors in the spectrum.

Already familiar with the design that fits your tastes? Great. All that’s left to do is find an idea that sparks the imagination. It’s incredible how a little idea can get the creative juices going.

Consider the clever use of fabric in the living room pictured above. The striking, colorful fabric on the chair and ottoman is perfectly offset by the neutral armchair and ottoman on the opposite side of the room.

What makes it all work ? The use of the patterned fabric on the throw pillows ties the room together in such a way that is both distinct and subtle.

Techniques like these are great for those who prefer custom design solutions. Upholstering your own furniture (or having it upholstered) would allow you to employ this method in a custom-tailored manner.

Go ahead, search for inspiration and make your next design project a more imaginative one.