Wondering what’s on trend for this year? Let me introduce you to Marsala, Pantone’s Color of the Year for 2015. Marsala is a deep, earthy red that is sure to please. Not only is this color gorgeous with a variety of skin tones, making it an instant sensation in beauty and fashion, but a rich, sophisticated color that will add warmth and elegance to any home or interior. Unlike other trending colors of the past (sorry Orchid 18-3224, you just didn’t cut it for me…), Marsala is an easy-to-live-with trend that is sure to become a classic.

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As we jump back on our tour of incredible spaces, let’s adjourn to the bedroom.

Essential characteristics for a successful space: Think COMFORT - soft textures, pleasant lighting, cozy furniture. Think RELAXING - chose colors and patterns that make you happy and peaceful. Think PERSONAL - this is one of the most private and sacred rooms in your home. Create a space to nurture and honor yourself.

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Stair systems can be pretty standard. Rise, run, railing - end of story. But that doesn’t have to be the case. The following images illustrate how a staircase can contribute to the interest and character of a home.

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If you ask me, every home should have a cozy corner of some sort. Check these out:

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Depending on the size of the home, some families may have both a living room and a family room. For others, these terms may be interchangeable. I consider living rooms to be more mature, slightly more formal in nature, whereas family rooms are kid-friendly and casual.

Essential characteristics for a successful space: comfortable seating, appropriate materials, and extra pillows or blankets for snuggly moments. Carefully consider what activities this room must accommodate as well. For example, include a side table and lamp for reading, flexible furniture arrangement for morning yoga or family dance party, and storage for board games/movies/books/etc.

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Next on our merry tour of wonderful spaces, the dining room. Often reserved for more formal occasions, I would love to see this room evolve into a functional medley of sorts. For example, large tables work exceptionally well for puzzle making, crafting, homework, gift-wrapping, and more. A word of caution: be tidy and organized - you don’t want this to become the largest catch-all in your home.

Essential characteristics for a successful space: storage for specialty dinnerware/ linens/candlesticks/etc., layers of (dimmable) light can help create the right mood, and be mindful of chair movement and table proportions when selecting an area rug.

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As we continue our tour of sensational spaces, we move from the mudroom to the kitchen. This is one of the most important rooms in your home - not just for daily function and family time, but as a major selling point for your house.

Essential characteristics for a successful space: durable/easy to clean materials, an efficient work triangle, and several layers of effective lighting. Other details to consider include quality cabinetry, abundant storage opportunities, desk area for bill paying or homework, and well-suited for conversation/entertaining.

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With the onset of snuggly weather, I thought I might offer a bit of toasty fireplace inspiration. Aren’t these delightful?

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I’ve had a love affair with Bentwood chairs for years now. They are classic and elegant, but can be fun and playful too. I’d say they fit into just about any style of decor.

(Thank you Thonet!)

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Have you checked out Surya lately? They truly have some gorgeous finds. Below is just a smattering of some rugs I was recently drooling over. These include outdoor and handwoven tufted wool. Gorgeous!