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04/09/2020 12:00 AMIt's the start of a new season, a new year, and a new decade. If there was ever a time to give your space a little face lift to mark a new era, it would be now. So what's on trend this year?
Caryn Paradis, owner of Caryn Paradis Interior Design in Chester, has seen many trends through her 20-plus years as a designer, noting that new trends arise every one to three years. As we dive into 2020, Paradis is seeing clients lean toward bold, monochromatic colors as well as mixing new and old elements.
"We're seeing entire rooms outfitted in a bold blue or Kelly green, including the ceilings—color is about statement, but in an elevated way. You won't see spaces with multiple bold colors," says Paradis. "Another trend is a mix of new and old for a very layered, laid-back look. Clients don't want that everything-in-its-place feel; but are opting for spaces that really let personality shine through."
When it comes to redecorating your home, there are some projects that Paradis recommends be left to professionals such as major renovations and anything that involves electrical, plumbing, or moving walls. There are, however, plenty of things that homeowners can tackle on their own that will make a big difference.
One of the biggest things to consider when deciding on a DIY project is the length of time it will take. Paradis recommends one- or two-day projects as a great starting point.
"We're all busy and taking on anything bigger might be best left for a professional who will stick to a schedule," says Paradis. "Otherwise, you could end up with an unfinished project that adds stress to your already-full plate."
Luckily, even very small changes can make a big difference. Some quick, easy, and inexpensive changes that Paradis recommends include choosing new throw pillows, changing your kitchen towels, or painting your front door.
"A great way to freshen things up is to simply paint your door a new color—just having that little change as soon as you drive up goes a long way," she says. "Another great way to feel like you've shaken things up without spending a lot is to switch out your decorative pillows and kitchen towels. That color change makes you see things in a whole new light."
For those wanting to head more into the DIY realm, Paradis suggests installing industrial wall shelves or a custom headboard.
"For the shelves, combine black pipes and floor flanges from the hardware store and a reclaimed plank, mount them to the wall, and you have a great place for display or storage," says Paradis. "For the headboard, old doors make a dramatic statement and can be found at antique stores and junk shops."
If homeowners are looking to make changes with a goal of selling their home, Paradis notes that some of the best projects for return on investment include any changes to make the home more energy-efficient like attic insulation or a new furnace or new siding.
"Other small projects like upgrading your kitchen counters or replacing your old Jacuzzi tub with a walk-in shower have a good rate of return," says Paradis. "And never underestimate the power of a new coat of paint."
Whatever projects homeowners decide to take on, the most important factor should be the homeowners' taste.
"Things like white tile and tall baseboards are pretty timeless, but really, there aren't hard-and-fast rules for timeless changes that don't go out of style," says Paradis. "More importantly, designing your home as a statement of who you are as a family is never out."
Photo: Project by Caryn Paradis for client in Colchester. Photo by Peter DePatie