Pretty in pink

February is the harbinger of Valentine’s Day, and with it, an onslaught of that most sweet, effervescent color: pink.  Ever since the crowning of Rose Quartz as Pantone’s 2016 color of the year, pink has retained a place in fashion and design trends — particularly that muted, blush pink that gives us pink in a subtler mood.  Pink is fun, but more than that, it’s versatile — it can give us elegance, femininity, and muted refinement, or it can give us a brilliant pop of color perfectly suited to the set of Barbie.  Whatever you want, pink can often provide.  So what are some of the best, and easiest, ways to take advantage of this color trend?

1. Keep it small

If you’re just beginning your foray into the usage of pink in your space, keep it simple and start with the small stuff.  Pink, especially the ubiquitous dusty pink of modern design trends, can function similarly to a regular old neutral like beige or white, and so will play nicely with existing colors and furniture, especially in controlled doses.  Try out some pink throw pillows, or a lamp with a rose-gold base.  A pink accent piece, like an armchair, adds that gentle color without requiring a total room overhaul.  In bedrooms, pink textiles and comforters can be cozy and sweet.  Dip your toe into the water and give pink a trial run — see how you like it.  

2. Embrace pink in your functional spaces

Kitchens and bathrooms — often the more utilitarian spots in your home — make great grounds for incorporating pink into your life.  Who can forget the pink tubs and sinks of a classic 50’s bathroom, or the chrome and pink refrigerator some more artsy vintage kitchens love to include?  Of course, you needn’t go all-in on pink appliances to bring color into these functional spaces.  These are great spots to experiment with pink accessories and decorations — towels, bathmats, shower curtains, and displayed glassware can all bring pink into your life.  Feeling pretty in pink?  Go for a statement and opt for those pink appliances!

3. Bust out the paintbrush, or the wallpaper

A statement wall can bring a bold artistry to a room.  If you’re feeling the call of pink, a wallpaper with pink can really say something, and say it in a fresh, chic way.  And your wall modifications don’t have to be traditional Valentine’s pink — a dusky rose or muted blush will function just like a neutral wall, while also adding a warm, modern feel.  The color of a room really sets the tone, and if you like what pink has to say, it can make the perfect backdrop over which to set your furniture and art.

4. Always consider hue

When considering pink, the particular hue is of real importance.  Pink is a broad color category, and because of this, you’ll want to be specific about the kind of pink you decide to bring into your home.  Are you interested more in the subdued tones of a desert-y pink?  Do you yearn for flashes of flamingo?  Picking the right hue will affect the way pink meshes into, or defines, your space, so a mindful approach to selecting your desired shade can go a long way.

5. Think floral

Not looking for a big pink commitment, but still interested in being part of the trend?  A fresh bouquet of pink flowers — carnations, tulips, peonies — is a perfect way to get that pop of color without great expense or major interior changes.

If you’d like a hand curating the pink accents and pieces of your dreams, send me an email and let’s talk!  

‘Tis the season to let pink into your life.  I, for one, will be investing in some tulips.