Hi guys. It’s that time again where I try to solve your design dilemmas. This week readers had some good questions so let’s get started!
Kristen writes:
Hi Molly. I hope you get a chance to weigh in on this rug conundrum. I need help. I’d like to replace this falling-apart little Ikea Persian with something else. I’m thinking zebra pattern? Or something else mod? And it needs to be larger than this 5 x 8, doesn’t it? My only hesitation is that there’s a large Persian in the adjoining dining room, and I’m afraid that something really graphic will be too much of a contrast. What do you think?
Best,
Kristen
Or this one from West Elm? I am obsessed with all things tiger at the moment…
Or this one from CB2?
Or your could bring a little color in with this living flatweave option from Anthropologie. Most of the stores have small versions available so I would recommend you grab one to make sure the colors work first..
Hope this helps and send after pics please!
Nellie writes:
Hey Molly. I was wondering if I could quickly pick your genius designer brain. I know you are a fellow gray fan and may know a few good paint colors. We are currently painting our main room which has 14′ ceilings so I want to be very conscious of it not looking too institutional. Thanks in advance,
Nellie
ML: Hey Nellie. First, thanks for the kind words. I am a big fan of gray these days. I am really feeling the greige (sort of a warm gray into beige) as well as some darker, richer options. Don’t be afraid of a deeper color, especially in a big tall space. If you go this route just make sure to bring in lighter colors on your upholstered pieces and your artwork…
I totally get your concern about the institutional look. Gray done wrong can be so One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest. A few of my faves are below and all should help you steer clear of the mental hospital look.
From top to bottom: Benjamin Moore Ashley Gray HC-87, Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter HC-172, Benjamin Moore Stardust 2108-40, Dunn Edwards Silver Spoon DE6366, Dunn Edwards Dangerous Robot DE6387, Dunn Edwards Walrus DE6368, Farrow & Ball Cornforth White 228, Farrow & Ball Pavillion Gray 242
A few things to remember. Everyone’s monitor looks different so make sure to go to your local paint store to see swatches in person. Also, you MUST put swatches up on your wall to see how the colors actually look in the room. Color is a product of light and every room has a different quality and amount of it. My suggestion to you is to get the smallest size the manufacturer sells (most folks are now selling sample pots) and paint a 36″x36″ square on the brightest and darkest walls of the room. Look at the color in the morning, at the brightest point of the day and at night, and with electric light. You will see how much the color changes and it will really help your decision making. Good luck!
xom
