Color conundrums and design dilemmas
Designer Anna Matthews joined Post staff writer Jura Koncius recently on the Home Front online chat. Here is an edited excerpt.
Q. My condo's tiny, windowless galley kitchen has a black granite counter and backsplash with white cabinets and appliances. There's one wall that is crying out for a pop of color. Any suggestions to brighten things up?
A. Instead of painting the extra wall a color, I would suggest displaying art that brings some color into the space. A series of three framed prints hanging vertically will bring in color while drawing the eye up, which will make your small kitchen feel slightly taller. Buddy Editions (www.buddyeditions.com) is a great website that has a fabulous selection of limited-edition prints in a really reasonable price range.
Q. A half wall separates my kitchen and step-down family room. Is it a good idea to remove it, or carve out shelving to store books for an updated look?
A. Removing the half wall would do wonders to open the space and create a more open feel between your kitchen and family room. I would suggest doing that instead of putting in bookshelves.
Q. I plan to sell my traditional-style townhouse in two years. Creamy yellow has been popular color for a while, but as I am repainting to freshen rooms, what colors do you suggest for my house, which does have good natural light?
A. I would suggest really light, neutral colors that work with a range of tastes. Benjamin Moore's Classic Gray and Revere Pewter are two classic colors that are great for walls. Benjamin Moore's Dove White is a classic bright white for trim throughout the home.
Q. How can you use curtains without making a room look dated? I need curtains to save energy but love the clean look of a curtain-free window.
A. Curtains can elevate any space. For a fresh and modern look, skip the cornice and keep it simple with white panels. Installing them about 3 to 5 inches below the bottom of molding or the ceiling will add height and impact without being imposing.
Q. My front door opens into the large living room. What is the best way to create some kind of a foyer with a mirror and small table? A coat tree? A small bench?
A. You are on the right track! While I would avoid a coat tree (they tend to look more messy than organized), I would definitely suggest a console table with a mirror above and two lamps if you have the space. That will create an intentional entry space without imposing on the living area.
Q. I want to update the large wall behind the sofa in my two-story family room. Right now, I have a 3-by-4-foot framed print in the space. I am tired of it and want to update this focal point. What do you suggest?
A. This is a great opportunity to bring in a new, large piece of art or a series of prints. If you are interested in a single piece, then I would recommend looking at the Hidell Brooks Gallery (www.hidellbrooks.com) in Charlotte or Gregg Irby Fine Art (www.greggirbygallery.com) in Atlanta. Both galleries have a range of large-scale art and are wonderful to work with, even from afar! Alternatively, I'd suggest four rows of three framed prints as a series above your sofa.
Q. We have Persian rugs and runners throughout our house. I would love to lighten things up by switching out one or two for natural fibers such as sea grass, sisal or jute. Can these looks be combined? And if so, which natural rug fiber would integrate the best? Our floor plan is fairly open, so it is challenging.
A. Absolutely. A large sisal or jute rug layered under a smaller Persian rug can create a more modern look while unifying an open space.