Page 28 THE VILLADOM TIMES I • May 11, 2011 ����������������������������� From discarded to divine: Reusing items with style (ARA) Spring is often considered a time for cleaning up and cleaning out. As the saying goes, “Out with the old, in with the new.” However, according to Molly J. Deas, academic director for Interior Design at The Art Institute of Portland, spring is an ideal time to inject trends of the season and redecorate by reusing items in new ways. Deas highlights what’s hot in interior design and offers ideas on turning items that might usually be labeled as “junk” into new treasures. “Reuse” is the key to being both thrifty and eco-friendly. Examine objects you already have or flea market finds and consider how a fresh coat of paint or new hardware could update it. “Some popular new trends in interiors comprise the use of intense pop colors, mixing colors from a similar palette, 3-2-11 karen/janine metallic accessories, and adding natural accents such as seasonal flowers and plants,” Deas said. HomeImpDecBanner6x 6 Incorporating pops of color like bright yellow, magenta, x .75” violet, and lime green is a simple way to create a fresh room. Try punches of bright color against neutral backgrounds, such as white, cream or gray, for a lively new vibe. Mixing colors of the same palette, for example a light violet with a darker plum, is another way to use color this spring. “Metallic accents can add a feeling of luxury and drama to a room,” Deas suggested. “Be on the lookout for mirrors, trays, and picture frames that you can integrate into your room.” White furniture and accessories are another way to bring freshness to your space. They provide a neutral backdrop and contrast to bright accent colors. Finally, bring nature and spring color indoors with potted tulips, daffodils, paperwhites, or amaryllis. Make a statement with a brightly colored pot. This is a great way to incorporate subtle hits of color, particularly if your landlord just won’t go for magenta walls. Now that you have your inspiration and ideas, here are some suggestions on how to bring them to life. Commonly overlooked pieces that can be reused for home decor include old lamps, lighting fixtures, picture frames, mirrors, and furniture. All of these items can be painted to create new decor. Paint is the most inexpensive way to create dramatic change in an interior environment. Mirror frames, old lamps, and lighting fixtures painted with metallic paint will add a feeling of luxury and add contrast. Furniture can also be painted or stained. Consider new, brushed metal hardware to give it a modern feel. Be eco-friendly by using a non-toxic or low-VOC paint. Both are widely available at hardware and paint stores. “As the weather improves, flea markets and garage sales are the perfect place to search for unique accent pieces. Vintage is still a hot trend in interior decorating,” Deas added. Mix vintage objects and furniture in with modern decor. Buying used or vintage is good for the environment because it doesn’t require the use of more natural resources, energy, or packaging. Reducing, reusing, and recycling have never looked so good. To learn more about The Art Institutes schools, visit www.artinstitutes.edu/nz. CIRINO LANDSCAPING Full Service Landscape & Design Company Lawn & Renovations Spring Clean-Up Personal Service Free Estimate Are you ready for Spring? ANY 15% OFF SERVICE New Clients Only • w/Coupon • Exp 6/30/11 • Not Combinable Tom Cirino ASK ABOUT OUR PRE-PAYMENT SEASONAL DISCOUNT! 201-891-0955 • www.cirinolandscape.com 5-11-11 Joan/Janine AmazingWoodwork3x3Color(5-11-11) 3 x 3” ertified Interior Decorators Lucia Palmeri and Lauren Decorating Den Interiors Comes to Your Doorstep! Woods provide a complete in-home or in-office interior decorating service by bringing thousands of samples directly to their clients. They are then able to design the room in the client’s own surroundings. “It’s our belief that your home should indeed say something about you – your personal interests – the area in which Lauren Woods, C.I.D. and you live – your culture – your talents – your loves. A beautiful home doesn’t just happen. Good decorating is the result of Lucia Palmeri, C.I.D. good planning and should start by developing a comprehensive, detailed decorating plan. We have the talent, experience and specialized knowledge to help you pull it all together.” As owners of Decorating Den Interiors, Lucia and Lauren can provide a wide breadth of products from custom designed window treatments to carpeting and area rugs, wall covering, custom furniture, lighting and accessories. “We pride ourselves on our ability to work within our clients’ budgets to create a custom room for function, comfort and beauty. We handle all the details so you don’t have to.” “Clients working with our small business have the buying power of a very large established company behind us. Unlike a store, we have no loyalties to a particular vendor and in fact have over 100 different manufacturers to make the right choices for our clients.” Lucia and Lauren are ready to help clients with any size project. “No project is too small or too big.” Call (201) 6618606 today for a complimentary 90 minute consultation. C 5-11-11 pat/janine Cirino2x3SpringColor(5-11-11) 2x3” Rev2