Community Magazine November 2012

H ome fashions seem to change as quickly as clothing trends do, but that doesn’t mean you have to do a complete home remodel every few years. As the styles shift from traditional to modern to contemporary and transitional, you can easily go with the flow, keeping your existing furnishings and just adding a few key pieces to liven up your home. Here are the top five additions that will make your casa chic: THE THROW PILLOW- My living room couches, selected seven years ago by my husband because they were “so comfortable” are big, dark brown leather, shapeless blobs. Until I can convince him to donate them and buy sleeker ones (I’m dreaming of a printed one with nailheads) I have completely covered them with bold, patterned throw pillows. From chevron stripes to sequined boucle, metallic prints and Mongolian fur, these pillows are eye catching, trendy and completely affordable. THE PRINTED RUG- It’s been said “The ceiling is your fifth wall” when it comes to selecting paint and wallpaper for your walls. Likewise, your floors should certainly not be ignored. A patterned area rug in a bold color can pull together your room and add life in an instant. There are so many choices from damask and ikat prints, to other more organic designs like swirls and florals. Don’t be afraid a to add a bright color to a neutral palette like a magenta, yellow or aqua. You will be amazed at how fresh your space will look. THE OTTOMAN/POUF- Add extra seating in your living room or den, use as it stylish coffee table, or have it to put up your feet and relax (you know you deserve it!) These pieces are so versatile, so useful and just look so chic, you will wonder how you lived without it until now! THE BUTLER TRAY- Don’t have a table by your sofa? Don’t despair! This fully mobile, lightweight alternative with its super sleek chrome X legs, is an end table, a drink stand, a serving tray...you name it, it does it. THE MIRROR- It isn’t an old wive’s tale that mirrors give the illusion of more space. Especially placed in an entryway, mirrors create a focal point for visitors and make an impressive decorative touch placed over a console table, chest or bench. No need to file for permits to extend! Double the size of any room with a substantial leaning floor mirror. In���i�r� etcetera f the fresh F IVE reshen up your home in an instant with these 5 easy (and inexpensive!) updates. JENNIFER ESSES Think you’ve got a creative nest, or have a room that’s particularly pretty? Your space can be featured in our next edition! Email interiors@communitym.com for more info. 64 COMMUNITY MAGAZINE