"I love this watery shade of blue because it promotes tranquility. The softer the blue, the more it will relax you and create a sense of calm and order." — Dina Manzo, host of HGTV's Dina's Party.
Martin, Alabama, features lantern-style light fixtures, hidden medicine cabinets, and freestanding, antique oak washstands. Paint is Benjamin Moore's Weekend Getaway. Pendant from South of Market. Devon sconces by Vaughan. Shades by Conrad. Rug by Dash and Albert. Linen café curtain by Rogers & Goffigon. Stool from Bellewether.
The blue candlesticks that inspired this East Moriches, New York, kitchen designed by Beth Martell and Enda Donagher are standing near Kohler's double sink, fitted with Rohl's Modern Architectural faucet. Alma chairs and counter stools by TK Collections. Billiard light by Ann-Morris Antiques.
The right color scheme can give traditional style a fresh update. Drawing on a foundation of traditional elements, such as white trim and beaded board, classic furniture shapes, and antique accents, an infusion of color gives this living room its own persona. The muted peachy yellow is a fail-proof alternative to basic beige. Repeating an accent color, in this case chartreuse, throughout a space delivers continuity. A consistent use of oatmeal color, on the sofa, rug, and dining room chairs, also provides a sturdy base for the room.
Picture-perfect paint-color combinations result from up-front research, thoughtful planning, and sometimes a trial run or two. Ease the selection process by taking your color-combo cue from a patterned fabric, an oil painting, magazine images, or snapshots of your travels. Study your inspiration piece to determine in what proportions your favored colors appear to get a feel for which you want to use as your primary, secondary, and accent hues.
"You'll see this shade of Prussian blue in butterflies, Orientalist paintings, or Turkish robes, and the way we used it in this dining room — with canary yellow and coral — feels very exotic. The lacquer finish changes the color and gives it body and depth. It glistens. The atmosphere is luxurious and rich, like a sultan's palace." —Alex Papchristidis
