Decorating with Flexibility
By Beverly Ferguson, ASID Allied Member
www.ReflectiveDesigner.com

The current trend for open floor plans is as fresh and exhilarating today as it was twenty or so years ago when homes began to be built in this fashion. Even owners of older traditional, compartmentalized homes have embraced the idea of flowing spaces by knocking down and/or moving walls. Initially the homeowner is thrilled with the concept of spaciousness, but when the task of decorating and furnishing comes due, the reality can present some practical decorating challenges.

Probably the biggest challenge of which the homeowner becomes aware is the definition of space, that is where one space ends and the other begins. It is easy to recognize an inside or outside corner, but what about two spaces which share a common wall? Does this mean that all the rooms that share walls or all of the rooms in an open floor plan have to be the same color? Knowing that the human eye loves diversity and that the function of each space gives us direction will lean us away from the "one color fits all" approach. A canvas of varied neutrals can be the backdrop for successful and comfortable design. Here's a methodical approach to creating unity without boredom in an open floor plan;

1. Decorating is theater! Look for opportunities for attention. Is there a wall which might become an accent, or an architectural feature which demands notice? Every space has a primary focal point, this is the star of your show. It might be a fireplace, fine woodwork, a treasured collection of ceramics, a tapestry you purchased on vacation, a rug or piece of furniture…something which is unique, outstanding or something that has special meaning to you. If it's not a brightly colored object or is not in your direct line of vision then create attraction to it by default. Downplay the other elements in the room so it shines by comparison. In fact, setting up a low key environment with a series of varied neutrals interjected by focal objects is one of the easiest and most forgiving ways to approach an open floor plan. You can accomplish this through the use of color, contrast, orientation in the room, lighting, texture, line and scale. Professional decorators and designers know about all of the tools in the toolbox, not just color (the obvious one). Remember you are the director and by using the decorator's and designer's toolbox, you are creating areas of interest.
   
   
2. Ok, so maybe you're just starting out and haven't acquired any special treasures; the house, condo or apartment doesn't have any outstanding architecture. Or you might be in the "the kids are too little to have nice things" stage. In this instance, inexpensive renewable objects such as candles, art prints, or toss pillows can become your "eye candy". Here's the premise behind "eye candy": eye candy is the visual equivalent of a piece of very fine Belgian chocolate. Small and contained, it is so rich that only one or two pieces satisfies. Applied to decorating, this outlook gives you the flexibility of establishing a neutral field upon which you can place jewel like tones or accent areas of interest, these objects become your eye candy. This year it's orange, next year it's green…not to worry. For a small price you can not only change your color scheme but also the look and feel of your home, casual/formal, country/techno, etc. What better way to put interest and diversity in your home without being overwhelmed?
   
   
3. How do you establish a canvas of those varied neutrals mentioned at the beginning of this article without having the house look like that big bowl of oatmeal? Most people think of neutrals as being beige. Let's lend more options by re-defining the term neutral to include any color which is toned down. Toned down or muted colors tend to sit in the background allowing brighter colors to come forward in the space. If you now have at your disposal more than a palette of beiges to work from, just think about how much flexibility you are going to have? Within a palette of neutrals (even beiges) you can create interest with elements of design other than color. In a kitchen, perhaps you can play stainless (manmade) vs. granite (organic). In a relaxation space such as a family room, the tactile essence of the space is directly proportional to the level of its comfort. Choose leather, chenille, velvet, a knitted throw, a sheepskin area rug. While this whole room might be beige, no one could ever accuse it of being as boring as a bowl of oatmeal.

Understatement of a space is a terrific way to provide the ultimate in flexibility. A space that is a bit underdone is best because it allows each visitor to complete the space by having his/her own dialogue with the room(s). Inside the home, there is nothing strong enough to dictate, only suggestion.. In this way the space becomes more universally appealing without being dull. Overly matched elements in a neutral space are a sure way to have that area fall flat on its face. Flexibility for a space occurs when it can be continually renewed even if the elements within the room do not change. The change comes from within us as we constantly bring new our experiences and growth to it.


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