Guest Designer Series

We have a special treat for you today.  We have started a new series introducing a guest designer, who will talk about the hottest new trends from the design world.  So without further ado, RSH Catalog is excited to introduce our readers to Emily Johnston from EJ Interiors.

Hello! I’m Emily Johnston, owner of the Dallas-based interior design firm, EJ Interiors, and founder of the Material Girls blog, a home décor website.   I am so excited to share with you my top five trends for Spring 2010 and how you can apply them to your own home.   

Layered Flooring: 
This technique can be tres chic and can add a plethora of interest, texture and warmth to your floor. My favorite way to carry out this look is to lay a zebra rug diagonally on top of a natural rug, such as a sisal or a seagrass.  Also, layering a fabulous antique area rug on top of wall to wall carpet, helps disguise less than desirable flooring.

 (Photo courtesy of Elle Decor)

Turquoise:
This color isn’t necessarily “new” to the design scene by any means and has been considered pretty trendy in recent years (hello blue and brown color combo!), but I never seem to tire of using it.  Ever since Pantone named turquoise as its “Color of the Year” for 2010, I haven’t been able to stop thinking about this hue.  It’s one that can go more calming or bold (take your pick!)

 

Natural Materials:
As we approach warmer weather, every room needs a few natural elements to give the appearance of “bringing the outdoors in”.  Natural pieces that would be ideal to add to your own home would be things like woven shades, rattan storage baskets, bamboo sticks and seagrass, jute, or sisal area rugs. The more texture the better!  It is essential to add these organic elements to a room so that you have a nice balance of nubby textures, paired with your more sleek pieces. 

Monograms:
I love a good monogram!  This small touch can instantly take your room up one level on the style notch.  Whether it’s a monogrammed towel, pillow, or even a letter block propped up on a bookshelf, a monogram is a great way to add some individuality to a room.  (Also, consider creating your monogram in a fun color such as hot pink or a bold orange, to celebrate spring’s bright color palette!) 

 

(Photo courtesy of Domino Magazine)

Painted Furniture:
Design bloggers, furniture showrooms, and magazines alike have been buzzing about Swedish design and the painted, distressed look of furniture that goes along with this style.  Whether you purchase an antique, a reproduction, or DIY, this look is perfect for Spring because of its light and airy appearance.  Pairing these “older looking” furniture pieces with more modern ones is my all-time favorite tip to give a room a “collected over time” appearance.

 

(Photo Courtesy of Veranda Magazine) 

 

 

 

 

 

~ Emily

 

The RSH Catalog team wants to thank Emily so much for this great write up.  Be sure to check out Emily at the Material Girls blog often for more great content!

 

Comments

[Oriental Rug Cleaning]

I love the animal print rug, where did you find it?