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Thursday, January 12, 2012

WHAT IS IN STYLE FOR 2012...ECO-CHIC.

Happy New Year!!  I am happy to be back on the blog and I have a lot to share in 2012.  You will see some changes in the way the blog looks over the next month, as well as some new features, but it is all coming from the same source, Me!

I want to introduce a new series of blog posts that will focus on the top design trends for 2012.  I was inspired by an article that I read in Romantic Homes magazine and I wanted to share the design styles with my own perspective and additional sources.


Eco friendly project in the Mexican Riviera modern living room
modern living room design by los angeles interior designer Carlos Alberto


The first style trend that will continue to dominate in 2012 is ECO-CHIC.   This trend has continued to gain momentum over the past several years and the concepts and products to support this trend have increased 100 fold!

To some, eco-chic means using less paper towels and to others it is a comprehensive lifestyle choice.  To me,  it means being aware of the products in your home, making conscious decisions in your selections and incorporating natural materials into your space to the extent that it reflects and enhances your personal style.

Interestingly, the addition of natural materials into a space can often make the difference between a warm space and a "chilly" space.  In addition, many options exist that are extremely cost effective and in some cases, free.  And remember, it is not about creating a space that is simply eco-chic...it IS about embracing your own personal style and adding natural elements that you enjoy and that complement your style.

You can start with a set of organic white sheets, or a reclaimed wood cheeseboard.  Beach glass is a beautiful element to include a glass jar or dish... as well as burlap or hemp.


www.seasideinspired.com

www.seasideinspired.com

www.seasideinspired.com

Driftwood is one of my favorite elements and can be incorporated in many beautiful forms.  These 3 photos include driftwood items from www.seasideinspired.com.  Driftwood adds warmth and is a natural element that can be utilized successfully in rooms of all styles, including more modern settings.


www.nettletonhollow.com


Nettleton Hollow is a great resource and you can order individual pieces of driftwood in multiple sizes and use them on coffee tables or console tables for a very affordable price.  You can also order birch pedestals that can be used as risers in your home.

www.nettletonhollow.com



Another versatile product that can add beauty and interest to any wall or space is the 3-d wall panel.  There are multiple manufacturers of these products so it is best to take a look and see what company offers products that fit your style and budget. Most are made of biodegradable materials- essentially you receive a pack of 8 or 12 panels that you adhere to the wall, and you can paint them any color as well.

www.mywallart.com


www.mywallart.com



Are you enjoying that hunting lodge look without the real looking carcass on the wall?  Or perhaps you have one too many mirrors in your home and you really need something else on the wall that shows your playful side.  Take a look at www.cardboardsafari.com.  I love this company and I purchased "Bucky" several years ago and he is still hanging on my guest bedroom wall!  As you can see below, there are options that fit into any space and provide whimsy.  



www.cardboardsafari.com



www.cardboardsafari.com




And yes, this wreath is made entirely of cardboard.  They are fun and VERY affordable...go ahead and vist the website, I know you want to.


Now, you see there are many ways to embrace this concept without having to move in to a treehouse.  Or, if you prefer the treehouse, go for it!  I couldn't complete this post without the mention of Angela Adams and her rug designs.  AMAZING.  This is the ultimate secret garden right in your home.  WOW!   Now go and get started on your own update.  What are your favorite ways to incorporate nature in your home?



Forest Floor modern living room
















These are some of the items to look for if you like the ECO-CHIC concept.

  • items made from hemp, cotton and burlap
  • stoneware and pottery
  • old glass
  • reclaimed wood
  • succulents  
and remember, when it comes to artwork, there is nothing more "eco" than outsider folk art where all of the materials used are usually found and recycled into masterpieces!


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