Bring the Outside in with This Colorful Shade

Elizabeth Street

Color is a powerful element in interior design. It can evoke a psychological response, conjure emotion and create a distinct personality for the room. A colorful piece can be used to draw the eye to a particular focal point such as a gorgeous rug, a statement piece of furniture or a stunning painting.

With spring right around the corner, I am celebrating the color green. Green symbolizes nature and is used to convey tranquility and health. I use green when I want to "bring the outside in."

I find that the use of green is most effective in living rooms and bedrooms, two rooms where you are more likely to want to create a relaxing and calming space. One of my favorite ways to start adding more green to a room is by simply adding a few small pieces such as a small chair, a trio of colorful portraits on the wall and a lamp or vase. I spread these items around the room so they are not clustered in one space.

My best advice is to be fearless when it comes to mixing different shades of green. From chartreuse to kelly green to emerald, all shades can be mixed to create depth, fun and personality in a room, and ultimately, to bring the fresh feeling of spring indoors all year round.

Click through the slideshow for gorgeous green pieces to add to your home décor.

By Susan Hornbeak-Ortiz

Susan Hornbeak-Ortiz is the designer and creative director of Shine by S.H.O., a luxury home décor brand specializing in fashion-forward lines of upholstery, casegoods, lighting and home accessories.

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