Decorating with Whites and Lights

Dear Jon,

Are we compatible? I find I'm quite taken by the use of elegant natural tones in today's décor, but I'm not sure how my children will handle it. I'm not a sophisticated socialite but a real mom with a chaotic life and I don't want a living environment that is not compatible with my children and pets. Is there hope for such a choice?


Dear Hoping,

There is something special about the quiet elegance of a neutral décor and having kids and/or pets doesn't have to exclude you from this timeless design theme. By making smart decorating choices your rooms can look good for years to come.

A creamy backdrop is easy to achieve with a high quality latex scrubbable paint. Avoid delicate wall coverings but don't shy away from today's durable and easy care vinyl coverings. The key to a successful neutral décor is varying textures and a vinyl embossed paper is a great way to add durable texture. Don't forget the ceiling. The often overlooked 5th wall is another opportunity to reinforce your design direction.

Obviously hard surface flooring such as stone, tile, hardwood or laminate is going to be more durable than wall to wall carpeting and with so many colors and finishes to choose from finding the perfect choice is easier than ever. An easy to send out to be cleaned area rug can help warm things up. Or consider a rug made for outdoor use; they are color fast, look and feel fantastic and clean up with a garden hose.

When it comes to selecting furnishings cleanability and durability are the key attributes to keep in mind. Today's synthetics hold up to kids, pets, and daily wear and tear. For the last several years microfiber has been a very popular choice. It's suede like appearance and
feel belies its rugged durability and a scrub brush and some soapy water is all it takes to clean up most stains.

White and creamy leathers are a beautiful and practical choice for an active family. Sleek and sophisticated or plush and overstuffed, neutral colored leather upholstery from a quality manufacturer will last for years with a quick wipe down. Look for fully protected aniline dyed leathers to assure years of worry free comfort and style.

When you are selecting case goods consider some of these options. For a more casual, relaxed feel painted and distressed furniture is an obvious choice and any nicks or scratches the kids may add only improve the time worn patina. In addition, weathered woods in cool neutrals are an excellent choice. Think sun bleached to get an idea of this hot decorating trend.

You know the old saying that everything comes back in style, well that is certainly true of lacquered furniture, which was all the rage at this year's High Point furniture market. Ivory's, creams, whites and ecrus with very little hardware distinguish it from its' 80's counterparts. (no brass, yeah!)
Lacquer is a hard and tough finish although finger prints can be an issue on its' ultra shiny surface.

With some wise decorating decisions you and your family can enjoy an elegant and neutral interior that truly reflects your design personality.

Jon