Have you guys seen these amazing SINCOLxmt Tapes? Made in Japan, the oversized washi tapes are made of rice paper, adhere so easily to walls and furniture, and can be removed with no damage at all - just like temporary wallpaper! Perfect for rental spaces or those of us that like to change our minds often. If you are not traveling to Japan soon they are also sold online here and here! So much fun right? I love them for kids rooms but really the possibilities are endless. . . 

This vibrant basket weave might be my favorite inspiration. Could be just perfect for the next RedMart offices . . . . 

Artist Spotlight: James Nares

"It just seemed to me that there was enough going on within a single brushstroke to tell a story" 

- James Nares

The works of painter James Nares are an absolute favorite among both collectors and designers, and it's not hard to see why! I love spotting his work pop up in spaces done by so many of the top decorators and it's amazing to see the incredible range of styles these lively works can compliment. I especially am drawn to the dynamic format of Nares' canvases - they are so bold and modern but also so rich and warm with organic texture. And the vibrant single hues he picks for each work are fantastic! 

Do you love Nares' work as much as me?  

This shot is so fabulous, even only partially visible, the cobalt blue print gives energy to the whole space!

Love them as a mis-matched pair!

Nares at work - what a creative process! Perhaps inspired by Jackson Pollack?

The artist's sun filled studio.

Designer Tip: Creating Lovely Layered Neutrals

I am so drawn to spaces with a palette of rich, layered neutrals. I love the calming, luxe feel of a room based on soft and natural tones, but this look can quickly veer towards boring or bland in the wrong hands. So here are my top 5 tricks for creating an inviting, visually interesting and warm spaces using neutral hues!

{1.} Bring in a variety of textures and materials. Color is only one dimension of what makes a space dynamic - textures and finishes can add amazing contrast. How about: vintage mercury glass + rustic linen + glam chrome + natural wood + lush wool + swirly veined marble. 

{2.} Use a range of neutral hues. Just because the space is neutral it does not have to be all beige - try adding highs and lows within the same natural color family.

{3.} Stick to warm or cool neutrals. I usually don't believe in design rules, but for me warm browns and cool grays really fight - pick one or the other and build from there.

{4.} Add in tiny bit of unexpected color. Ok, I know these are all natural hued interiors, but a small accessory or textile sets off neutrals perfectly. A bunch of greens or flowers works especially well! 

{5.} Pile on the pattern. Omitting bold colors really gives you freedom to incorporate lots of different patters without overdoing it. Be sure to try patterns of varying scale and form. 

I am loving all of these subtle layered tones! 

What do you think . . . have I convinced you neutrals are not dull?