We Need Color!

I was recently in Tobago during the holiday season. It was hot and so colorful.

I always find it ironic how people who live in cold weather climates decorate their homes versus those in warm weather climates.  

Take the exterior facades of Canadian homes as an example. Most exteriors are neutral-shades of grey, taupe, beige abound. Some of us may take a chance and paint their front door a vibrant color, but generally we play it pretty safe. 

Let’s get inspired this winter to add a color into our homes.

When I think of tropical homes, I see color. Seafoam green, oranges, blues and yellows plus the vivid tones of tropical flowers always catch my breath.

It is quite funny when you think of it. Why do populations that live in the cold, have shorter daylight hours and long nights opt for such neutral colors when our southern counterparts splash bold and bright colors both inside and out?

At this time of year, many of us yearn for those warmer temperatures and, I daresay, want to see color! In spades! I know I do.

So how can we brighten up our homes to create a little sunshine? 

Flowers

I recently did an instagram post about bringing spring into your home, and the first thing we did was pick up flowers of all descriptions—parrot tulips, hydranges in vivid pink, hyacinths, gerberas, forsythia—and what a riot of color! I could literally smell spring once we placed them throughout my home!

Whether you buy from a grocery store or florist, nothing brightens up your day better than a gorgeous bouquet of flowers. And hey, with Valentines day around the corner, what a great excuse!

So many ways to add color!

Paint

All designers agree if you want to add an instant lift to your home, buy a gallon of paint!

It can be as easy as painting one focal wall or a piece of furniture like a chair or a dresser in a bright unexpected color. Instant pop!

Pillows

Grabbing some colorful pillows is a mood lifter. It is fast, affordable and again, throwing in a bright color on a neutral sofa or chair works every time. 

Music

I listen to playlists a lot, and finding a happy beat definitely puts some spring in my step.

Try searching under Spring Mix and you will have a happy day! 

Fruits and Vegetables

I always display brightly colored fruit—they ripen better and add some color. 

Tomatoes, bananas, melons, peppers—I simply put them in big bowls on my island and kitchen table. Their brightness catches my eye. I especially love a pineapple because they give me a tropical vibe. 

Art and Books

Add a colorful stack of books to your coffee table or a fun piece of art.

As I selected some colorful books, I actually pored through them before setting them down. What a lift!

I think we need a little color just about now, don't you?