Decorating
What's Hot in the Home for 2007?
By Mary Dobson
Apr 29, 2007, 10:56

Lovely to look at, and good for the planet. Eco Chic styling combines Asian serenity with natural materials and natural light filtered through Levolor cellular blinds.

(NC)-What's popular one year becomes old hat next year. In fashion, in movies, in food, in music and, of course, in home decor. As a decorator and home economist and frequent guest on Citytv's CityLine, I need to keep up to date with the trends. It's a part of my job that I really enjoy, because I love the excitement of what is new and I love turning people on to what is fresh and new in the marketplace.

What's different this year? The big story is that, at last, after years of being a minority issue, environmental awareness has moved into the mainstream. In home decor, it shows in our choice of colours and in our choice of materials. One of these styles is called Eco Chic.

Colours are gentle and forgiving, the purest white, the palest lemon, the most brilliant chartreuse. Materials are close to nature - raw wood in all its glory, stone, mother of pearl, hand crafted textiles. Colours and materials unite in patterns that replicate botanical forms, artwork recreates the natural world. In window fashions look for fabrics created from grasses, reeds and bamboo. I think of a simple roller shade that filters light through homespun yarns.

Another change is that people now stay home for many of the experiences they used to go out for. Movie night happens in home theatres. Big screens, access to media over satellite and internet connections, means that home is more important than ever. This importance is expressed in Classic Creations, a look that has always been in style, a look built around the idea of heirloom furniture, and lush fabrics.

Colours are nostalgic - burgundy, plum, jade, gold and spice. The star fabrics are Dupioni silks, and in the windows are Roman shades, in the traditional luxurious style. Levolor has introduced a wide range of exclusive fabrics, not just for Romans but also for roller shades.

Metro Mod

Lastly, another home-centred trend, but one for people living a full life in a small space. This year, in North America, there will for the first time more single-person households that traditional family units. Even if you don't live in an urban loft, you'll live as if you did, in Metro Mod style. It's a look that doesn't need a lot of money to put together, though some may splurge on upscale appliances and chic designer furniture.

Colours are warmer and vegetal in tone from last year's urban style; mauve, turquoise, pumpkin and bronze. Dark undertones create a dusty look. Levolor selections include cellular shades, faux and real woods, Paneltrac and others in new colours, styles and sizes with control options.

You can get a closer look online at www.levolor.ca.

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