6 Design Trends to Tap into for 2016

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With New Year’s in the rear-view mirror and a bit of 2016 under our belts, it’s time to take a good look at what’s hot in interior design. Some of these trends require a long term commitment (you’re not going to update appliances every time style’s collective mind changes, after all.) Others are simple updates that can be swapped out when you tire of them. 

Black stainless steel

From the telling activity level on Pinterest to the pages of design’s top magazines, there is one trend that consistently emerges: black stainless steel. Appliance manufacturers have created a finger-smudge resistant finish for this sleek new look, something anyone that’s tried to keep a stainless steel kitchen clean will appreciate. If the charcoal grey to outright ebony is too dark for your liking, take a look at bronze hues some brands offer. It’s a nice change from the traditional silver tones, yet not as dark as its black and grey cousins. 

Rose Quartz and Serenity

Your home is your sanctuary. Pantone gets it, and that’s why they introduced paired Colors of the Year for 2016: Rose Quartz and Serenity Blue. The combo reflects “connection and wellness as well as a soothing sense of order and peace,” says Pantone. You don’t need to repaint a room with one, the other or both of these calm and collected tones to tap into the trend. These hues work well in accessories like area rugs, pillows and throws. 

Cozy nooks

After a long day, you want to come home, kick your shoes off and get comfy. Right? Creating a cozy nook is something we can all get behind! Whether you build out your own reading nook or dedicate a sacred space for meditation, the goal is to carve out at least a small space to relax and recharge. 

What’s new is old

From reclaimed wood to distressed finishes, the look of aged material adds texture and interest to your space. Tap into your inner DIY guru and have fun with this trend. For example, a refinished dresser with new pulls might make a one-of-a-kind buffet for your dining room. Pallets can be broken down and turned into everything from wall art to end tables. Get creative. 

Pendant lights

Big, beautiful chandeliers have their place, but this is the year of the pendant light. From modern to romantic these hanging gems are at home in the kitchen, as well as the bathroom, bedroom and any other space you want to dangle a little style from above.  

Heated entry floors

Adding radiant heating to the floor is not entirely new. It’s become a popular bathroom splurge in recent years. The toe warming, chill shaking warmed floor is now finding its way into the entryways of your home. Just imagine pulling your snow covered boots or rain dampened shoes off on a toasty warm surface. Bliss!

by Anjie Cho

Get Framed: 4 Basic Steps to Displaying Your Art

Picking out paint and furniture may be at the top of your design list, but accessories and wall décor should also be a priority. In fact, it’s those smaller things that can elevate a room from ‘nice’ to “Wow! Nice!” More importantly, what you opt to hang on your walls and adorn your shelves with injects your own personality into a space. 

If you really want to make your mark on the room, frame a customized piece of art or photograph for a one-of-a-kind piece! Don’t be intimidated. This DIY is easier than it sounds if you follow these 4 basic steps.

Step 1: Select the right piece

This is no different than any other design element in the space. You’re looking for a piece that contributes to the ambiance and personality of the room. The photos you snapped of your vegetable garden last summer might make a terrific display of framed art in your kitchen, but as gorgeous as the colors in your heirloom tomatoes may be, they may not be the right element for your den. Framing your child’s first finger painting, on the other hand, could be just what your family room is looking for but not what you want to hang in your formal living room. Match your piece to your place and you’re good to go.

Alternative art ideas: Your customized art doesn’t have to be limited to your own photography or paintings and drawings. Look to things like a beautiful piece of lace you want to show off, an interesting illustration in your favorite book, a quilt square or other textile that just catches your eye.

Step 2: Find your frame

Your frame has dual responsibility here. It has to complement your artwork and your room. For example, if your room is contemporary and sleek, avoid an ornate wooden frame. Likewise, the size and style of your frame should suit the artwork. Your frame should complete the piece, not compete with it. If you’re highlighting a delicate image, a heavy, wide-banded frame will weigh it down and steal the focus. 

Look at thrift shops and garage sales for inexpensive pieces. Just be sure to clear the energy of anything pre-owned before you use it! Pay attention to the frames, not the art featured inside. You may find the perfect frame to set off your charcoal drawing if you’re able to look beyond the poster currently featured in it! Also, look for a frame with a piece of glass to protect your art work. If the frame you selected doesn’t come with glass, you can have one cut to fit. 

Step 3: Choose a mat

Matting your artwork will create a professional looking piece. It will also hold the art in place while preventing it from touching the glass of your frame. Select an acid-free material for matting. You can find pre-cut mats in standard sizes at your local craft store. You can also purchase sheets of matting material and customize your own mats, or have the shop cut it for you. How big your mat is, what color you use, and your choice of texture will change the overall look and feel of your finished piece. There is no right or wrong answer here. Pick what resonates with you! 

Step 4: Attach the artwork

Grab your mat, and using acid-free tape, fix the artwork or photograph in place. When you’ve got it centered just right, place it face down on the glass and then attach the backing of the frame. Voila! Looks good, right? Now that it’s done, just hang your finished piece at eye level.

by Anjie Cho

DIY Numerology: What’s In Store for Your Nine Stars This Year?

Happy Chinese New Year!

It’s that time again to celebrate the transition to the lunar new year. On Monday Feburary 8, 2016 we welcome the Year of the Fire Monkey. In addition to the Chinese zodiac animal and four pillars astrology, I utilize the numerology of the Nine Star Ki in my life and feng shui practice. 

The Nine Star Ki was developed in ancient China and syncs perfectly with feng shui, the I-Ching and five element principles. The transition to the new cycle in the Nine Star Ki system occurs on Februrary 4th of every year. 

Holistic Spaces and Aromatherachi have curated aromatherapy inhaler sticks for each number for 2016. The aromastick blends were created to support and enhance the energy that your number will be working with in 2016. These aromasticks can be used with feng shui adjustments to help you achieve your goals this year. Each blend of essential oils distributes olfactory information directly to your limbic system and hypothalamus, producing deep emotional and behavioral transformations.

In case you are not familiar with the Nine Star Ki, you can calculate your principle number by using your year of birth.

For example, if you were born in 1976:

  • Add: 1+9+7+6 = 23

  • Reduce to a single digit: 2+3 = 5

  • Subtract from 11: 11-5 = 6

*if born Jan 1-Feb 4, subtract from 12:  12-5 = 7

For example, if you were born in 1950:

  • Add: 1+9+5+0 = 15

  • Reduce to a single digit: 1+5 = 6

  • Subtract from 11: 11-6 = 5

*if born Jan 1-Feb 4, subtract from 12:  12-6 = 6

Now that you’ve calculated your principle number, you can see what kind of energy you can expect for the year.

If your principle number is 1, in 2016 you will be in the year of Rapid Growth. This year will be a continuation of last year where you see your sprouts grow into strong, grounded trees. This year will be busy and active, so please take care of yourself and be careful not to get burnt out.

If your principle number is 2, in 2016 you will be in the year of Fluctuation. This year will feel a little chaotic, as this is a time of renewal and rebirth. You many need to reinvent yourself this year. It’s a great time to let things go that are no longer serving you. 

If your principle number is 3, in 2016 you will be in the year of Prosperity. This year will feel strong and prosperous. You will begin to feel confident and be recognized for your knowledge and skills. There will still be a lot of effort, but you shall finally be harvesting the fruits of your labor.

If your principle number is 4, in 2016 you will be in the year of Celebration. This year will feel celebratory and playful. It is a great time to relax and pat yourself on the back for all the hard work that you put in the last few years. Enjoy yourself, rejoice and have some fun.

If your principle number is 5, in 2016 you will be in the year of Stillness. This year will be much quieter than the last. It will be a time of stillness, like climbing up a mountain to meditate in isolation. This is a great time to focus inward and do some self-cultivation.

If your principle number is 6, in 2016 you will be in the year of Recognition. This year you will be in the house of fire, where you have the best opportunities to be seen and recognized by others. It is a great time to receive any promotions or any other projects that you want publicity for. Be careful, as all things, good or bad, may be unveiled to the public.

If your principle number is 7, in 2016 you will be in the year of Planning. This year will feel quiet and is a time for planning. In the winter, it may appear that everything is dead on the surface, but underneath there is much life and activity. Similarly, it may feel slow, but take this time to reflect, review and plan for the future.

If your principle number is 8, in 2016 you will be in the year of Germination. This year will be the time to plant seeds. When you plant a garden, you germinate many more seeds than you need. Do the same this year. Put all your ideas out there into the universe and share them with others. Plant the seeds and see what comes up! 

If your principle number is 9, in 2016 you will be in the year of Sprouting. This year will be energetic and full of new beginnings as you catch sight of seeds that you planted last year begin to sprout and grow. Be open to new ideas and cultivate the projects that you start at this time.

For a bit more on Nine Star Ki numerology and what that means for this year, check out a recent Holistic Spaces podcast. You can also visit the posts here for tips on how to bring in the new lunar year in feng shui style! Whatever the year ahead looks like for you, be sure to take time to care for yourself and ensure that your space is nurturing. Also, don't forget to carry a three dimensional snake charm this year, as the snake is the best friend of the monkey and offers support and protection throughout the year! Grab one over at the Holistic Spaces store!

by Anjie Cho