Minty House

<center><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmp0CtSa1fm4e1ByLui5mAX-9h6lD6dGdT21O318JdVtLOgzRk4mX4KokJNG1o4NQlTG_BIAN_wBGyFF0SyMe_NNnbA1xyd0fEyTcD50vyGjLQfIRkZBJrByjkIU_2LcoyEeoPMyl-iGc/s1600/DSC_9719.jpg" /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO7h9AwPOhGpiplILFjDPmGr7p1bYkbAtvY0GZjbtGsaI70NxhRjGXqPla26g9bBxs7v8oYh-GLv74QFq9S-Rr_dNnSEUh0VfYpZ4tzWIOZYnUD7MND1zbpxQUj9CMvvFx_NbgVvYZLI4/s1600/DSC_9701.jpg" /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRQ_it7y5veDk66Fmcf_aLq2emi2id5KazudSzJBTMUMkJbcTJ-BjWAd_GVxU_dWrSZ9nQDRiFsRvI6dqedv3YxXH6iAv-J_1VFrnVs4EJb1L5WjzaHW3FeVaBtSO2qmByHiH2p6agg6g/s1600/DSC_9691.jpg" /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9rum3zi3OqOfjbFZ6doVd9HL5mW6z5YXTk1L9Hd5dpt_Pev1c1s-LICSr8n3DV176gNcXdzFmaCO1lrHSEJEQLLKnx1khv1neVryiUo9WoB6MBwbBBfUkp3FCVp8bkF_vMa46-76Zulw/s1600/DSC_9656.jpg" /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoO7I78TnA6R6nZ4-j260f6swu1n-iB32zS9Kb4991gana_PXyQbOHSADFr1I9YXEoQI_wWCKV4xuvjOSo_ZzYhMgYkAqJusdqM4WSHD-YGAHBSTQ9MbF3KowvjVhSq2ihjFR0y44ab4g/s1600/DSC_9658.jpg" /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFcTtGKfQoNyU_38qV8kTVaerTmsqTtxZxjJrpqhfyWlWfrcga0owZY_s-3wWP4-edGMk_Tc0iLr70XvTTHbvwfD8WMiRu-21mg1N-kZEyPe3-xSYXJwDAqvnmZT4AHkJD60JokNFuzXg/s1600/DSC_9648.jpg" /></center><br />How darling is this?! The delightful kitchen belongs to the owner of <a href="http://mintyhouse.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Minty House</a>, a gorgeous Polish <a href="http://mintyhouse.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">blog</a> and online <a href="http://sklep.mintyhouse.pl/index.php/" target="_blank">shop</a> filled with pretty pastel imports from Scandinavia and Denmark! The <a href="http://rstyle.me/~2G2i4" target="_blank">KitchenAid mixer</a> might be my favorite "accessory" here–we have the same one and LOVE it! The shelves are great too though, what a perfect way to show off the cute collection of dinnerware! She's actually changed things up a little since these photos were taken, see the update <a href="http://mintyhouse.blogspot.co.uk/2014/09/jesienna-poka-jesienny-green-gate-i.html" target="_blank">here</a>! But definitely keep your eye on her <a href="http://mintyhouse.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">blog</a>, it's one of my favorites for eye candy!<br /><br /><br />You guys have to come back tomorrow for an exciting day on the blog! I'm thrilled (and super nervous!) to be participating in the next round of the <a href="http://www.callingithome.com/2014/09/one-room-challenge-linking-eventget.html" target="_blank">One Room Challenge</a>, the super inspiring 6-week room makeover event hosted by Linda of <a href="http://www.callingithome.com/" target="_blank">Calling it Home</a>! I can't wait to share with you the space I'll be decorating! And if you have a blog and want to join in, go <a href="http://www.callingithome.com/2014/09/yes-one-room-challenge-linking-event-is.html" target="_blank">here</a> more info!<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Love turquoise? Visit my shopping blog </span><a href="http://www.everythingturquoise.com/" style="font-style: italic;" target="_blank">Everything Turquoise</a><span style="font-style: italic;">...updated several times throughout the day! Check out </span><a href="http://www.decorbycolor.com/" style="font-style: italic;" target="_blank">Decor by Color</a><span style="font-style: italic;"> for even more color-themed shopping! </span></span>

Minty House

How darling is this?! The delightful kitchen belongs to the owner of Minty House, a gorgeous Polish blog and online shop filled with pretty pastel imports from Scandinavia and Denmark! The KitchenAid mixer might be my favorite "accessory" here–we have the same one and LOVE it! The shelves are great …

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What fall brings

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Yes, it's that time again. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlUXeVoiUd_3_jniFneQYrDZF4Ei-cgQ61jF5Ykz1NKh4RjcFFvLA3dueqY4l_jaFp2OXwuiXMi7ZDkjV4yY0L_FwNJaOqml3itvlNST_pGLbkNQG1rZkpyKRuI8kD_MT-6K1QdHzgMi76/s1600/DSCN1943_01.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful Duntara, NL </td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhzCgVAcCnbwns0hE8bVftBrFnLtjkYqZZCaF7XxFwJDJbEXGPOw82hEl4wKi8dWcBCLn3UVYFGJcnoAMpwB3mN50oEvDjwAxpeE89jGdMs9doinKkCUbu3SDRpr7UUH13kYv1A0NinNcV/s1600/DSCN1950.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhzCgVAcCnbwns0hE8bVftBrFnLtjkYqZZCaF7XxFwJDJbEXGPOw82hEl4wKi8dWcBCLn3UVYFGJcnoAMpwB3mN50oEvDjwAxpeE89jGdMs9doinKkCUbu3SDRpr7UUH13kYv1A0NinNcV/s1600/DSCN1950.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bridge, Duntara NL </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpWOcfSBb0zyyYIMBxTuZzuRwAxeOUCtFYBMhf0V37SOZVa4_oFZ_ghWcxKty9NgtsXv__2xf6Ky2rnuYg_XFe9QRB2z-1FHYQdIlawGD-iv7R4-dtULkJag13dmlz54ir2uHtqE5BHwLq/s1600/DSCN1936_01.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Duntara neighbour </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My love for Duntara began in my teens when I spent my summer vacations there with my Aunt Mary in the house above. Life has come full circle since 2002  when we built our own house up the road  from Mr. Harty's place. This harbour is particularly  stunning in fall. Everywhere I look I see natural beauty.  As summer winds down it becomes quiet and even more relaxing if that's  possible. </div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxxopybMJOU-kW1ttvn0gAO4BF_SWEpfB51jHCE1jdkCkctuqw9lhxqQBc2tQAK3lOgON6YUjCrCjHGFXHCaQggeWCXcw_uvPwMI2cAmroqwVtsby7agkPoEnwfvGemTSmA9Hj_jCejJs6/s1600/DSCN9647_01.JPG" width="300" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Around the bay" dining  table </td></tr></tbody></table> Finding natural things for decorating  my summer house becomes more difficult in September, and I accept it as a sign that it's time to close up and move back to my  St. John's life. As  I make the  final drive back to the city I can feel myself subtly changing .  No more rocking chair as I watch the sea gulls swoop and meander .  No more ocean waves or full moon over the bay.  No more twinkling lights of Bonavista across the  water. No more total silence.  No more summer friends. <br /><br /> Fall means something quite different in my life. It  heralds the reality of  my peak production time for design and blogging, and a decrease in art production.   Reminding myself that the ease of the summer months would not be so special if  I could do it all year helps a little.  But that final trip out is always bitter sweet.<br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijHAFo6EtUvDAYdTbZo2brsAKPXtnhPKlM3dmx8p_YkQTis41-kF77IqNLiNY3qRRnrnYljC5cRDglluZuk8e8pxy5fa_sW3i7rWM5rF9Tzpr-UBseMOW1QxWgPRpRtoCY4GsiCsWR53UJ/s1600/fall+dining+room.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijHAFo6EtUvDAYdTbZo2brsAKPXtnhPKlM3dmx8p_YkQTis41-kF77IqNLiNY3qRRnrnYljC5cRDglluZuk8e8pxy5fa_sW3i7rWM5rF9Tzpr-UBseMOW1QxWgPRpRtoCY4GsiCsWR53UJ/s1600/fall+dining+room.JPG" width="318" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">City dining room table </td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;">Now doesn't the differences between these two tables sum up my two lives.</div><br /> So it's planning time.  September is the month when I  feel anything is possible.  It's about deciding where I want to go and coming up with a way to get there. <br /><br />I've been putting a lot of thought into  the next step for this blog.  My original purpose was to use blogging as a way to consolidate my ideas about various  design topics,  and at the same and provide practical information about design that would answer questions that average  DIY homeowners might have.  I've written about all sorts of topics and my list of  popular posts shows which have been  most read, some  with  hundreds of thousands of page views from around the world.  That always blows my mind.  Now I'm ready to  change it up a bit. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzlr2TiYhcJfMA8syAcOAwyZ4lJw8cCKAR9fGKkdK1BLGMov3VlqJZTverVNjq6gUstey6Iw5SnLYrIIr0S2PZewHPIT9uJdt6WXafdbbfYqvgrIh304cDP2wDQsLF3CtjX5CJfAj5GrgF/s1600/autumn+quilt.jpg" width="312" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzlr2TiYhcJfMA8syAcOAwyZ4lJw8cCKAR9fGKkdK1BLGMov3VlqJZTverVNjq6gUstey6Iw5SnLYrIIr0S2PZewHPIT9uJdt6WXafdbbfYqvgrIh304cDP2wDQsLF3CtjX5CJfAj5GrgF/s1600/autumn+quilt.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>Third Weekend in October, 85 x 110, quilt pattern by Ruth Powers</td></tr></tbody></table>  This fall I am  planning more local and national posts about interior design, art and gardens- my three loves.  I have friends lined up who are willing to open their doors to me so I can photograph and write about the many ways they make their houses into homes.    If you know me you may be getting a call.  Stay tuned for my first AT HOME installment.<br /><br /> 

What fall brings

Yes, it's that time again. Beautiful Duntara, NL Bridge, Duntara NL My Duntara neighbour My love for Duntara began in my teens when I spent my summer vacations there with my Aunt Mary in the house above. Life has come full circle since 2002  when we built our own house up the road  from Mr. Harty's …

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Charmean Neithart Interiors

<center><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6l05qrshE0Uhr2V033othbminh71bcH4msshAEk9TtkmmQQkhTPVMwgdqOQusJ3mJwKFs7F9mu4dBwb8MG-K09ZcpRb2IOGJ6yh0BlTIvOP1QDE-sJTyUEUqSnN7zwY0o_BrVFb_YHb8/s1600/turquoise+door.jpg" /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEG-VzQhNadq5uYaJwIPWHKEWuhOe0WQFKKo8aTsIa2DfuvHYvZi4dYyW2JlTuf7FEcSy_w9Rj4C6Qxsw86g-7l3-b4dC0Arh48lK7AFUQWUB6uHwO10uRP_nhvqf3tHVHgBseoMCMO7E/s1600/Charmean+Neithart+foyer.jpg" /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5tHjekekqITSb3F7lftKfWRo67N_zBVGBHBIx4_civbpJ1mRgobCMFrD9ymmM4cse0BjcaqFnHcsq8USaLfA8sn0FW4YkbviJWYvFbC10V4Tbt4DFnQ2sfZRn6ubjrivaLfao1EGfDy0/s1600/living+room.jpg" /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0N3Meu3RbhJGy9bGbFbwmEN8rz1sD4BOjRc7d-GkiHWY4yQJSdqXIwjJgt5-XRLbMGQouP0m5K0-dpsesRUwOLbcNhC0XEVUjsylgTJavxBbunBmmPUe8cVr9KyMjErQQI2EehpSHBJk/s1600/Charmean+Neithart+divider.jpg" /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv0BPMqtq7mdL9X_RnA2Gs_jZMaF0pZ_VOUtzymTfDnudUw_w7bVR7uN5Ut2BVcLwl0i0oaeIKgMz4yqt79a6s2nLTgo1HlLTHRc1g1VIRwx0jlk0HuN1QiWnfu4rRe1C7msO7nbC2P6c/s1600/pillows.jpg" /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXLJ2FeqBa_mJ_bqPa2kcMrR5OMkg6TUThJpm1lpfD0ijXk2b4TfqvSe9DHTGZPnzSwkmFPXWfgUC4FUWR1RXqBjEZy4YhXEakgLTl5NRphJFDGsINzfw5KXT_m4nNhhc2-dk0Py_lH0A/s1600/fireplace.jpg" /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHuvGRy_Ru6lPTSavC2XuEHRDZko3QP93L8leth36lQGqLwuvwXxBN7gCOABKxV7gfxOWPyvOjSz_8DQPaIq4ZyYcxPvIWoeG3_pIvEpz5q1wTRiVVLv17_FCu0vtZzeELOU3rvTvPyGk/s1600/living+room+2.jpg" /><br /><br 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/><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTa18Ucds7BeoEi03Z2stqMi08YA-3gRvGl_5gQ0q3FRImFmvqz6KjgxUG8MxTWOqx1fxAvW9zFQ802_JfPRjEnfM__OwDK1MaDvMhRj5E5d9G7KySXNs_tQNer_9vpYksS6Otity-kw4/s1600/Charmean+Neithart+molding.jpg" /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWwGMWhqHNZClwSpIWnlHOqd0xJvbl7nMfFfSikjGJ_nxp-IChVMyic6_cYW1sdrIPsydoigZhDUMtc-KnG_PTEMKtRTDBuzaoOAUBCC1GPayY5Jcazl37buXUCrhwEGdlDGN7fvzL414/s1600/kitchen+2.jpg" /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq9-KCKPwZbALWlUx1yMy2Q-syc8reBiJNXAOTGWEQaSjpv2vwVoKmh7j0OWl3aXLBRC_qZelc7_Gdn9ZscYxfVGrKztmm8f0i6SUw1D3PhB15qTpcpLWReHysBUmwTjS9MV0zAl-FZac/s1600/Charmean+Neithart+pantry.jpg" /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCa-O-xCFjsgLts0ZgtNa5TT0f5lPF1uTpPRk_IqszA9jJHxCa2LtwFhQpeXK0dNGTZFhmoYWr_EW_WI2IvzTbBKIdQWruw7NlE-J84o18jCDyiOix-vy3Qtx1WxOCdOB55mJr1z4KeVo/s1600/Charmean+Neithart+shelves.jpg" /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglBQ1Lv-7FgPy6lLVnfGpHcWP3Qv7NjKmJIL1DWIiuhzDhDB3XArR50Fi14qXkeLuOLrmD5G4mYH9EF2sAs_X30y1kga3BIyGp9ZDUhq5w_zu-9i_JFxVUbWtW5S2BZgc4pRnd6F1ySlI/s1600/shelf.jpg" /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgujCGFq6Ro22yRUbjrii4Bp4o_6Z3FnsX6Lgn4Wf5jJe6-khsedvRowsxG0Zs5ZRKlcAx3vGdPA2m5xq8-Hl9ZU2sj3oY84qo65t5IsBAB5y803iofWId4L-EMzuQktKhF1R-x-mLVi5w/s1600/Charmean+Neithart+shelf+detail.jpg" /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSKEnSlAzLS0ArpeJ977cHzjU9i_rLvkTsbiPFTrWVyZ8trpNSEQMWB_2aETRJwGdXbj-x1b_ypaKZtdbv40WbDi0RAmj4eSjpLbzZd0KUFb5qVmyBQPcdVI72rbDru5aflZ7TYv3BE5s/s1600/dog+shower.jpg" /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgemZNXYwNUFelYixvgLT_pUkAwqGzqEsgLxcB4srNytLvbhkWSREwZuuYUJZZC2ywMLKCxsP_kjJrrfxNW-DtgjXcou7b6bDFHS1pr8231N5BzAtkiCwCOa49NZYjdNJwExIVHhxAymBg/s1600/dog+washing.jpg" /><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOIpRDd0rnFZG9eoGQ_LjtzEr8zdByMbHwcTbYRziJ4I4BPQSAVZVWlzT0jKlkI70zXqIsIiBWOgyMN26bPb1URhfFPuZMhb6jiSmxQFJZmpCf5LfF3hdYRiuqNrl8R4iTpRG1Eau9qD8/s1600/Charmean+Neithart+exterior.jpg" /></center><br />So many incredible details to take in! This Classic Spanish home designed by Pasadena, California interior designer <a href="http://charmean-neithart-interiors.com/" target="_blank">Charmean Neithart</a> and photographed by <a href="http://erikabiermanphotography.com/" target="_blank">Erika Bierman</a> was a complete re-model, with a flawless blend of old and new. Take the unique molding on the hood in the kitchen for example...the architectural artifact was an early 20th century carved beam! Such a brilliant idea to repurpose it on the hood! And how smart is the dog-washing station?? Our bulldog would get a lot of use out of that! There's lots more to see, so go <a href="http://www.houzz.com/projects/699130/classic-spanish-in-pasadena" target="_blank">here</a> to finish your tour of this gorgeous home!<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Love turquoise? Visit my shopping blog </span><a href="http://www.everythingturquoise.com/" style="font-style: italic;" target="_blank">Everything Turquoise</a><span style="font-style: italic;">...updated several times throughout the day! Check out </span><a href="http://www.decorbycolor.com/" style="font-style: italic;" target="_blank">Decor by Color</a><span style="font-style: italic;"> for even more color-themed shopping! </span></span>

Charmean Neithart Interiors

So many incredible details to take in! This Classic Spanish home designed by Pasadena, California interior designer Charmean Neithart and photographed by Erika Bierman was a complete re-model, with a flawless blend of old and new. Take the unique molding on the hood in the kitchen for example...the …

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Are you a design rebel?

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfox7fiOfh4fYbSZbOIsq3YAcpeKDvxI9kDLahyphenhypheneF23L_wm6vAH5Ubt76YA1JtdW5G4UQcE6B-DgFQ2XW0V4Ry1mMcrG_uyqYhONDlZ4aESOX-C-kjSugPDlKnq7POjMD_RKaVLjlSSa9S/s1600/antique+with+modern+art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>What's your first instinct if someone tells says you shouldn't do something?<br /><br />Do you automatically want to do it?  I do!  <br /><br /> Most people would agree that there are rules/guidelines in interior design. They impact decisions about all sorts of things,  e.g.,  hanging lights, choosing the right scale furniture, selecting colour schemes, etc.   I guess following them is a little like following a recipe - you get a predictable result. Someone else has done all the thinking for you which makes it easy but, you also get a very generic looking space where everything looks controlled.<br /><br /> I always think about those generic spaces  as the "Pinterest look" . You know  the rooms, all  beautifully organized, cutely accessorized with whatever is trendy at the time, and perfectly matched.   Does that make them wrong?  Definitely not.  I firmly believe we should all live in spaces that make us happy and comfortable.   What I am saying is that there are options in design that produce interesting, one of a kind spaces that are  usually achieved by playing around with design elements and principles. They are not for everyone.<br /><br /> Take the room below.....<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="breaking design rules, scale, " border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZuvZWghZksjB255e-BP8djjG_ZiGIuU3G81h59YvY8ZlufAFTmxSvQNYfyDL0_PYgDPRMh-CRI5nmDysE2Rz7qiICV4xS3NLCFwN5-vqLXSfpriqAAPNk9DsgnhimK84lhHl1nZh4e4E_/s1600/breaking+design+rules.jpg" title="Designing Home: Are you a design rebel?" width="303" /></div><a href="http://www.greigedesignblog.com/2014/09/modern-wine-country.html"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">source</span></a><br /><br />  Have a close look at this space  and decide what you like or don't like about it.  Check out my thoughts  at the end of this post. There are no right or wrong answers.<br /><br /> How closely you adhere to rules is dependent on what results you want to achieve, how well you understand the elements/ principles  of design,  and how creative you are at applying them.  You can do anything in decorating, you just need to act bravely, and figure out how to pull it off.  But, before you can break the rules you have to know them. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Can you spot which  rules/guidelines were  thrown to the four winds in these rooms? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1.</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="breaking design rules, mixing styles, modern and traditional," border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfox7fiOfh4fYbSZbOIsq3YAcpeKDvxI9kDLahyphenhypheneF23L_wm6vAH5Ubt76YA1JtdW5G4UQcE6B-DgFQ2XW0V4Ry1mMcrG_uyqYhONDlZ4aESOX-C-kjSugPDlKnq7POjMD_RKaVLjlSSa9S/s1600/antique+with+modern+art.jpg" title="Are you a design rebel?" width="302" /></div><a href="http://www.southshoredecoratingblog.com/2014/03/weekend-roomspiration-9.html"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> source</span></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="breaking design rules, mixing styles, modern, traditional" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkrIQ9tqGJBCzUmtN6S6lFV1P6ldORVm4Vdth9uI9Jx6sCzNcqWpMxDG9iyCBWuelnk-Eewv70DHUQLpjNyovotW3SQbozKnJJXPrn5srxDju4TtIB6QVx1r4cauggDx-L_y3378DseA3E/s1600/modern+kitchen+antique+furniture.jpg" title="Are you a design rebel?" width="300" /></div><a href="http://www.remodelista.com/posts/10-stellar-scandinavian-kitchens"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">source </span></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><b>2. </b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3jiRElRDWkm0JIws6lU6HGKchD7Es7wMW7TPeQnKS9N_PR3thW_hQszM621J4US_30hAmUB3Us6cPqSwHvSQ5LVaAMlJamaQ-KwHK1eFsoXw2pOleSSgnnvpPTSBi2NGXxNugwZIEqsr1/s1600/breaking-design-rules-mixed-metals.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt=" mixing metals, breaking design rules" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3jiRElRDWkm0JIws6lU6HGKchD7Es7wMW7TPeQnKS9N_PR3thW_hQszM621J4US_30hAmUB3Us6cPqSwHvSQ5LVaAMlJamaQ-KwHK1eFsoXw2pOleSSgnnvpPTSBi2NGXxNugwZIEqsr1/s1600/breaking-design-rules-mixed-metals.jpg" title="Are you a design rebel?" width="300" /></a></div><a href="http://dwellerswithoutdecorators.blogspot.ca/2010_03_01_archive.html"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">source </span></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="mixing metals, breaking design rules" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH0kB70aTI9rYkUwme_l8w15R-FRvGXKTaaxB-JpyoB7DkFZCC9t2vUI4pualgkcx1nSA78WUfnZxsedH0jbn3SJqbG7MT3vZcqlNc67FZPjPo2ian39z1JkT-X2aw_JKI7fvYRrvnH8Co/s1600/mixing+metals.jpg" title="Are you a design rebel?" width="300" /></div><a href="http://www.housebeautiful.com/decorating/home-makeovers/silverleaf-sideboard#slide-2"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">source </span></a><br /><br /><b> 3.</b><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj923oDL5gAfqPwMJ1K-_qlUfK0uRY5bAXB1rmuQt6XeIGEqwFTokfL0o8snEBg0QO8j6cinQUc26ahNAZu_smXNi5E23ibQwITrWHpFbdqmOIL3AJ2n33h7osDVLl5U-U5X60nOLVPnAlP/s1600/design-+rules-+scale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="breaking design rules, scale, accessories" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj923oDL5gAfqPwMJ1K-_qlUfK0uRY5bAXB1rmuQt6XeIGEqwFTokfL0o8snEBg0QO8j6cinQUc26ahNAZu_smXNi5E23ibQwITrWHpFbdqmOIL3AJ2n33h7osDVLl5U-U5X60nOLVPnAlP/s1600/design-+rules-+scale.jpg" title="Are you a design rebel?" width="265" /></a></div><a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/be-a-design-rebel-4-design-rules-you-should-totally-break-206974?crlt.pid=camp.ICL83fv4o1R0"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> source</span></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="breaking design rules, scale" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOrEWnqgZXuMW2paGSfBSF5Wv8V4Z7KbpBaFHRsGFkbswPufohPP-tdEJIrIEWDANs0Dm_MrK6uQyP065ghxSILO5M9zF8rFGH4j2OGKWqrgjjdomkbSVRNQ66jCvnXwTa2sWgIO7-pBb7/s1600/design-rules-mixing-wood-tones.jpg" title="Are you a design rebel?" width="296" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkrIQ9tqGJBCzUmtN6S6lFV1P6ldORVm4Vdth9uI9Jx6sCzNcqWpMxDG9iyCBWuelnk-Eewv70DHUQLpjNyovotW3SQbozKnJJXPrn5srxDju4TtIB6QVx1r4cauggDx-L_y3378DseA3E/s1600/modern+kitchen+antique+furniture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.homeadore.com/2012/12/07/circolo-dellostrica-claudia-pelizzari/"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">source</span></a></div><br /><b>4. </b><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCrcnO9a75mhBfslZcjLX7JOLN8MlJJWFOt_iO2wVHUfnbYn9ksuV1d6kYGyugXTl2eblVr8CPkAQa5Zi1HFa7Uh9q3NDIkx7wp4HPZpvq3vABPvdXOaBd2xtqGXGrd6Tpkjklw_txlDbT/s1600/design+rules+pop+of+colour.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="breaking design rules, monochromatic schemes, neutral schemes" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCrcnO9a75mhBfslZcjLX7JOLN8MlJJWFOt_iO2wVHUfnbYn9ksuV1d6kYGyugXTl2eblVr8CPkAQa5Zi1HFa7Uh9q3NDIkx7wp4HPZpvq3vABPvdXOaBd2xtqGXGrd6Tpkjklw_txlDbT/s1600/design+rules+pop+of+colour.jpg" title="Are you a design rebel?" width="400" /></a></div><a href="http://www.allyou.com/budget-home/easy-decorating/room-design-ideas"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> source</span></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="breaking design rules, neutral spaces, monochromatic schemes" border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC5QPDtwL4iYZOJBgCqnpO06VUZLGcC9cP2k8r-GQsvb-Y3BIRKxsfOZjkmshNz-5XEG4O8FWYD8hBfGLyAfw_dIa5lollKFkpU0Z16gXmbdKjnDtVb4SFt9WZorM54AC07yjL7oRt7M3c/s1600/kelly-hoppen-+colour.jpg" title="Are you a design rebel?" width="400" /></div><br /><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/kellyhoppen/"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">source </span></a><br /><br /><b>5.</b><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhTN_hgjq1D4V6AYr1N6RpNikaJ-Z3uDlx0moZd4KWOe2s0hdK-xcx9TsM0-gB3m0nZSWzVvYBBu8KdAFWHYS9LCgxSwxHCGomTjb2htogq7d2L0FtxJqeRrJD8_3F0kRc90DYujKZDU22/s1600/design-rules-mixing-wood-tones-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="breaking design rules, mixing wood tones," border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhTN_hgjq1D4V6AYr1N6RpNikaJ-Z3uDlx0moZd4KWOe2s0hdK-xcx9TsM0-gB3m0nZSWzVvYBBu8KdAFWHYS9LCgxSwxHCGomTjb2htogq7d2L0FtxJqeRrJD8_3F0kRc90DYujKZDU22/s1600/design-rules-mixing-wood-tones-2.jpg" title="Are you a design rebel?" width="308" /></a></div><a href="http://danawolterinteriors.com/"> <span style="font-size: xx-small;">source</span></a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC5QPDtwL4iYZOJBgCqnpO06VUZLGcC9cP2k8r-GQsvb-Y3BIRKxsfOZjkmshNz-5XEG4O8FWYD8hBfGLyAfw_dIa5lollKFkpU0Z16gXmbdKjnDtVb4SFt9WZorM54AC07yjL7oRt7M3c/s1600/kelly-hoppen-+colour.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <img alt="breaking design rules, mixing wood tones" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtn3PddjlRIdFPSsWIbYfydzO1cv4quoY6JAy3GoXEe1DzSXQ7fAEIDPuCJ0ggt69KD4qCKeFo3fuMhIjne3BGvMRYLY06HS3MRCqTunyfs3mzUYHMePX4BBZfPJe5eTYlLGtsZe2Hv8xb/s1600/mixing+wood+tones+kitchen.jpg" title="Are you a design rebel?" width="298" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">source</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>6.</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyNonDqDOGiqYf-kcqh3ePO9hCW3SqSkYx5oCZ8hho725xb1CEyTHxgdl5r9JpiyMRrBnmSrE6iHV2xoakITvcmTeBbcUW82kttmZcr3mZKHC9MqjESyvEsHc3uatfx8jSx-h84iRwZLJc/s1600/design-rules-small-spaces.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="breaking design rules, dark walls, small spaces" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyNonDqDOGiqYf-kcqh3ePO9hCW3SqSkYx5oCZ8hho725xb1CEyTHxgdl5r9JpiyMRrBnmSrE6iHV2xoakITvcmTeBbcUW82kttmZcr3mZKHC9MqjESyvEsHc3uatfx8jSx-h84iRwZLJc/s1600/design-rules-small-spaces.jpg" title="Are you a design rebel?" width="312" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://en.paperblog.com/dark-colors-in-small-spaces-346878/"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">source</span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtn3PddjlRIdFPSsWIbYfydzO1cv4quoY6JAy3GoXEe1DzSXQ7fAEIDPuCJ0ggt69KD4qCKeFo3fuMhIjne3BGvMRYLY06HS3MRCqTunyfs3mzUYHMePX4BBZfPJe5eTYlLGtsZe2Hv8xb/s1600/mixing+wood+tones+kitchen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha98rvW6RyRya9FfdUrbcr6gwl49CvwHGNfL3uC-UxUgkSbpZ7eoowN6uDhVaIMRtuwnl1gXxYsyv_qBGa4pxvh657zBAL_4o0bDUn3_9FVU0z6Tk-_Q76UMJ3_0S1_XHTV5zO-9sSkbEu/s1600/small-space-bright-palette.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="breaking design rules, small spaces, bright colours" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha98rvW6RyRya9FfdUrbcr6gwl49CvwHGNfL3uC-UxUgkSbpZ7eoowN6uDhVaIMRtuwnl1gXxYsyv_qBGa4pxvh657zBAL_4o0bDUn3_9FVU0z6Tk-_Q76UMJ3_0S1_XHTV5zO-9sSkbEu/s1600/small-space-bright-palette.jpg" title="Are you a design rebel?" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.countryliving.com/homes/house-tours/cotton-blankets#slide-7">source</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here are the results:  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img alt="breaking design rules, mixing styles, modern and traditional," border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfox7fiOfh4fYbSZbOIsq3YAcpeKDvxI9kDLahyphenhypheneF23L_wm6vAH5Ubt76YA1JtdW5G4UQcE6B-DgFQ2XW0V4Ry1mMcrG_uyqYhONDlZ4aESOX-C-kjSugPDlKnq7POjMD_RKaVLjlSSa9S/s1600/antique+with+modern+art.jpg" title="Are you a design rebel?" width="151" />  <img alt="breaking design rules, mixing styles, modern, traditional" border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkrIQ9tqGJBCzUmtN6S6lFV1P6ldORVm4Vdth9uI9Jx6sCzNcqWpMxDG9iyCBWuelnk-Eewv70DHUQLpjNyovotW3SQbozKnJJXPrn5srxDju4TtIB6QVx1r4cauggDx-L_y3378DseA3E/s1600/modern+kitchen+antique+furniture.jpg" title="Are you a design rebel?" width="150" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1. Stick to one style </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> These spaces show that when you mix traditional and modern the juxtaposition draws attention to both.  If only one style was used the various elements would be lost in their sameness. I particularly like the richness of wood and lots of curves with modern furnishings.  Of course art of any style works in any space.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img alt="mixing metals, breaking design rules" border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH0kB70aTI9rYkUwme_l8w15R-FRvGXKTaaxB-JpyoB7DkFZCC9t2vUI4pualgkcx1nSA78WUfnZxsedH0jbn3SJqbG7MT3vZcqlNc67FZPjPo2ian39z1JkT-X2aw_JKI7fvYRrvnH8Co/s1600/mixing+metals.jpg" title="Are you a design rebel?" width="150" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3jiRElRDWkm0JIws6lU6HGKchD7Es7wMW7TPeQnKS9N_PR3thW_hQszM621J4US_30hAmUB3Us6cPqSwHvSQ5LVaAMlJamaQ-KwHK1eFsoXw2pOleSSgnnvpPTSBi2NGXxNugwZIEqsr1/s1600/breaking-design-rules-mixed-metals.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt=" mixing metals, breaking design rules" border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3jiRElRDWkm0JIws6lU6HGKchD7Es7wMW7TPeQnKS9N_PR3thW_hQszM621J4US_30hAmUB3Us6cPqSwHvSQ5LVaAMlJamaQ-KwHK1eFsoXw2pOleSSgnnvpPTSBi2NGXxNugwZIEqsr1/s1600/breaking-design-rules-mixed-metals.jpg" title="Are you a design rebel?" width="150" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>2. Use consistent finishes (don't mix metals)</b></div>This is definitely a good place to start your little rebellion.  You certainly can mix metals. Just make sure you have some of each one in the space.  Think about a piece of jewellery that uses white gold, pink gold and yellow gold. It works. Check out this <a href="http://designinghome.blogspot.ca/2012/08/can-you-mix-metal-finishes.html">post</a> on the topic.<br /><br /><b> </b><img alt="breaking design rules, scale" border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOrEWnqgZXuMW2paGSfBSF5Wv8V4Z7KbpBaFHRsGFkbswPufohPP-tdEJIrIEWDANs0Dm_MrK6uQyP065ghxSILO5M9zF8rFGH4j2OGKWqrgjjdomkbSVRNQ66jCvnXwTa2sWgIO7-pBb7/s1600/design-rules-mixing-wood-tones.jpg" title="Are you a design rebel?" width="148" /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj923oDL5gAfqPwMJ1K-_qlUfK0uRY5bAXB1rmuQt6XeIGEqwFTokfL0o8snEBg0QO8j6cinQUc26ahNAZu_smXNi5E23ibQwITrWHpFbdqmOIL3AJ2n33h7osDVLl5U-U5X60nOLVPnAlP/s1600/design-+rules-+scale.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="breaking design rules, scale, accessories" border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj923oDL5gAfqPwMJ1K-_qlUfK0uRY5bAXB1rmuQt6XeIGEqwFTokfL0o8snEBg0QO8j6cinQUc26ahNAZu_smXNi5E23ibQwITrWHpFbdqmOIL3AJ2n33h7osDVLl5U-U5X60nOLVPnAlP/s1600/design-+rules-+scale.jpg" title="Are you a design rebel?" width="132" /></a><br /><br /><b>3. Pay attention to scale when selecting furniture/objects</b><br />I have to admit this is the one I have the most difficult time ignoring because  I am so attuned to scale considerations in drawing and painting.  I think I also have a  thing about objects too large bearing down on me. They make me uncomfortable. Large scale objects make riveting focal points. You can also have objects that are too small in scale, and end up looking insignificant and/or cluttered. Scale is usually the issue when a client tells me there is something wrong with a space, but he/she can't name it.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCrcnO9a75mhBfslZcjLX7JOLN8MlJJWFOt_iO2wVHUfnbYn9ksuV1d6kYGyugXTl2eblVr8CPkAQa5Zi1HFa7Uh9q3NDIkx7wp4HPZpvq3vABPvdXOaBd2xtqGXGrd6Tpkjklw_txlDbT/s1600/design+rules+pop+of+colour.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="breaking design rules, monochromatic schemes, neutral schemes" border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCrcnO9a75mhBfslZcjLX7JOLN8MlJJWFOt_iO2wVHUfnbYn9ksuV1d6kYGyugXTl2eblVr8CPkAQa5Zi1HFa7Uh9q3NDIkx7wp4HPZpvq3vABPvdXOaBd2xtqGXGrd6Tpkjklw_txlDbT/s1600/design+rules+pop+of+colour.jpg" title="Are you a design rebel?" width="200" />   <img alt="breaking design rules, neutral spaces, monochromatic schemes" border="0" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC5QPDtwL4iYZOJBgCqnpO06VUZLGcC9cP2k8r-GQsvb-Y3BIRKxsfOZjkmshNz-5XEG4O8FWYD8hBfGLyAfw_dIa5lollKFkpU0Z16gXmbdKjnDtVb4SFt9WZorM54AC07yjL7oRt7M3c/s1600/kelly-hoppen-+colour.jpg" title="Are you a design rebel?" width="320" /></a><br /><br /><b>  </b><br /><b>4. Every room needs an accent colour</b><br />Definitely not! Monochromatic rooms are so relaxing and depend on value changes and texture to wow.  If you want a quiet room, forget the pops of colour.<br /><br /><b> </b><img alt="breaking design rules, mixing wood tones" border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtn3PddjlRIdFPSsWIbYfydzO1cv4quoY6JAy3GoXEe1DzSXQ7fAEIDPuCJ0ggt69KD4qCKeFo3fuMhIjne3BGvMRYLY06HS3MRCqTunyfs3mzUYHMePX4BBZfPJe5eTYlLGtsZe2Hv8xb/s1600/mixing+wood+tones+kitchen.jpg" title="Are you a design rebel?" width="149" />  <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhTN_hgjq1D4V6AYr1N6RpNikaJ-Z3uDlx0moZd4KWOe2s0hdK-xcx9TsM0-gB3m0nZSWzVvYBBu8KdAFWHYS9LCgxSwxHCGomTjb2htogq7d2L0FtxJqeRrJD8_3F0kRc90DYujKZDU22/s1600/design-rules-mixing-wood-tones-2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="breaking design rules, mixing wood tones," border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhTN_hgjq1D4V6AYr1N6RpNikaJ-Z3uDlx0moZd4KWOe2s0hdK-xcx9TsM0-gB3m0nZSWzVvYBBu8KdAFWHYS9LCgxSwxHCGomTjb2htogq7d2L0FtxJqeRrJD8_3F0kRc90DYujKZDU22/s1600/design-rules-mixing-wood-tones-2.jpg" title="Are you a design rebel?" width="154" /></a><br /><br /><b>5. Keep wood tones consistent</b><br />When you slavishly adhere to this dictate you end up with a very boring space.  Check out this <a href="http://designinghome.blogspot.ca/2012/03/thoughts-on-mixing-wood-tones.html">post </a>for ways to mix wood tones effectively.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyNonDqDOGiqYf-kcqh3ePO9hCW3SqSkYx5oCZ8hho725xb1CEyTHxgdl5r9JpiyMRrBnmSrE6iHV2xoakITvcmTeBbcUW82kttmZcr3mZKHC9MqjESyvEsHc3uatfx8jSx-h84iRwZLJc/s1600/design-rules-small-spaces.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="breaking design rules, dark walls, small spaces" border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyNonDqDOGiqYf-kcqh3ePO9hCW3SqSkYx5oCZ8hho725xb1CEyTHxgdl5r9JpiyMRrBnmSrE6iHV2xoakITvcmTeBbcUW82kttmZcr3mZKHC9MqjESyvEsHc3uatfx8jSx-h84iRwZLJc/s1600/design-rules-small-spaces.jpg" title="Are you a design rebel?" width="156" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha98rvW6RyRya9FfdUrbcr6gwl49CvwHGNfL3uC-UxUgkSbpZ7eoowN6uDhVaIMRtuwnl1gXxYsyv_qBGa4pxvh657zBAL_4o0bDUn3_9FVU0z6Tk-_Q76UMJ3_0S1_XHTV5zO-9sSkbEu/s1600/small-space-bright-palette.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="breaking design rules, small spaces, bright colours" border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha98rvW6RyRya9FfdUrbcr6gwl49CvwHGNfL3uC-UxUgkSbpZ7eoowN6uDhVaIMRtuwnl1gXxYsyv_qBGa4pxvh657zBAL_4o0bDUn3_9FVU0z6Tk-_Q76UMJ3_0S1_XHTV5zO-9sSkbEu/s1600/small-space-bright-palette.jpg" title="Are you a design rebel?" width="150" /></a><br /><br /><b>6. Choose light colours for small spaces</b><br />That would be your first instinct, but the two rooms in #6 shows that breaking this rule produces distinctive and very different spaces.  Sorry, but I couldn't live in either of them.  I am a neutral colour gal in my own home. This <a href="http://designinghome.blogspot.ca/2014/06/5-tips-for-painitng-small-spaces.html">post </a>provides various options for painting small spaces. <br /><br />How did you do? <br /><br />And now back to the reflection pic....<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZuvZWghZksjB255e-BP8djjG_ZiGIuU3G81h59YvY8ZlufAFTmxSvQNYfyDL0_PYgDPRMh-CRI5nmDysE2Rz7qiICV4xS3NLCFwN5-vqLXSfpriqAAPNk9DsgnhimK84lhHl1nZh4e4E_/s1600/breaking+design+rules.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZuvZWghZksjB255e-BP8djjG_ZiGIuU3G81h59YvY8ZlufAFTmxSvQNYfyDL0_PYgDPRMh-CRI5nmDysE2Rz7qiICV4xS3NLCFwN5-vqLXSfpriqAAPNk9DsgnhimK84lhHl1nZh4e4E_/s1600/breaking+design+rules.jpg" width="303" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There's no doubt this space breaks a lot of rules, but it sure is memorable, and no one could call it boring. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><ul><li> styles are mixed freely, moving from traditional to modern;</li><li> the colour scheme is monochromatic, no accent colours here;</li><li>scale is manipulated big time in the high back chairs, plant, circular light fixture as well as in the smaller lamp shades in adjoining room;</li><li>wood tones are liberally mixed. </li></ul><br />And here's another take on some of the points above and few new ones. <a href="http://www.modani.com/canada/furniture-stores/" target="_blank">Modani</a> modern furniture specializes in modern furniture and accessories.  Check them out online or at their newly opened <a href="http://www.modani.com/canada/furniture-stores/" target="_blank">modern furniture store</a> in Toronto. Remember you can combine modern elements with any decor.<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="breaking design rules, modani, modern furniture" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSJhhPu5HP0Z_R8Lip8dYhus46mJVGQVa2TLJC8JPT_-f6AOkBvFKTwqfQYfa1IVFiK0LiyRXGxRFq7ypc2mCFv9AMtNEeqgaN22WjrNM88_ia63tMRUNjzLpP2HMuj9EyRTAIJgRGgfJw/s1600/MOD-Rules.jpg" title="Are you a design rebel? " width="412" /> <span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: center;">How do you feel about breaking design rules?  </div>

Are you a design rebel?

What's your first instinct if someone tells says you shouldn't do something?Do you automatically want to do it?  I do!   Most people would agree that there are rules/guidelines in interior design. They impact decisions about all sorts of things,  e.g.,  hanging lights, choosing the right scale fu…

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