Sept. Home Trends

HoME TRENDS MAGAZINE

flamboyant fall

Landscaping complements

autumn’s hues

TRENDS: Wallpaper // DEcoR: Blues & greens

Wallpaper

by JEnn WIllhItE | Photo by aDobE StoCK

Contrary to popular belief, wallpaper never really fell out of style and it is currently enjoying the limelight as a rediscovered creative force when it comes to trends in interior design.

Emily Wasson, co-owner of Shine Design in Indianapolis, says wallpaper in general is certainly coming back around.

“It was out for a long time and has come in and out a lot,” she says. “I think just wallpaper, in general, is a trend we are seeing a lot again, especially in half baths and laundry rooms.”

Many may recall the faded forest scenes and waterfall murals of the 1970s with a hint of cringeworthy nostalgia, but when it comes to popular design options, murals are once again right there at the fore with the up and coming 21st century patterns clients are seeking.

“I do really like murals, I think we see quite a few,” Wasson says. “Murals are a great way to use wallpaper. We see a lot of floral prints, too. There are just all kinds of print that we see a lot of, including stripes and checkered patterns among the options.”

Individuals are using online platforms, like Instagram and Pinterest, to fuel their creativity, Wasson says. Instagram designers are using wallpaper in more of their projects and their ideas are catching.

“I think just your everyday person starts to grab ahold of that,” she says. “They see that and start to replicate it in their own spaces.”

And, today, wallpaper isn’t just for walls.

Wasson says she’s seen it creatively used on ceilings and, of course, there’s nothing like a room that is completely papered.

In addition to muraled and patterned papers, boldly colored

papers are also claiming their rightful place in design.

“I think people are doing more colors now,” Wasson says. “We are doing warm neutrals of more beiges and browns. You are seeing a lot more depth and saturated colors.”

And, when it comes to textured wallpapers, grasscloth still tops the favorite’s list, Wasson says.

“We love a grasscloth and it never goes out of style,” she says. “There’s a lot of ways to play with texture and grasscloth is a great way to do that.”

Wallpaper’s latest incarnations of uses are a testament to its longevity, she adds.

Peel and stick options are available and more suited for the renter or those who are considering change in the not-too-distant future. Otherwise, traditional glue-back paper is still the best option. Hiring a professional is always wise, not only for ease but to ensure the finer points are met, like ensuring pattern repeats are spot on.

Residential projects call for 27-inch papers, says Chris Downey, sales representative for Sherwin Williams in Greenwood.

To avoid a wallpaper project running amiss, be sure to measure the wall or intended space before the first bit of paper is unrolled. Proper measurements will not only ensure project success, but make for easier removal when the time comes, he says.

“The basic makeup of wallpaper is the same as it has been for years,” he says. “Proper procedure is to size the wall then hang the paper.”

Family photos, vacation pictures, candid snapshots of friends and family — they’re often visual representations of some of your most treasured moments, so it’s likely you’ll want to give them some special treatment.

Consider these easy and affordable ways to showcase some of your favorite photos.

Variations on a theme: You don’t have to have a whole set of matching frames to create a unified look. Gather frames of different sizes, shapes and textures then paint them all the same color. White, cream or black are colors that let the eye focus on the photograph. Then when you group them together, you’ve got a cohesive display without everything being the same.

Location, location, location: Photos don’t always need to be on a wall or shelf. Try hanging a series of related photos on the back of a door or between windows.

A new use for old frames: Take a large frame with no back and paint it. Then take two pieces of ribbon or wire and attach them to the back of the frame, dividing it into three sections.

PICtURE PERfECt Creatively display your favorite photos

by famIly fEatURES

Photo by UnSPlaSh

Attach small photos to the ribbon or wire with mini clothes pins or other small clips.

New frames out of old windows: Fit a photo mat inside each pane of an old window. Attach photos to the backs of the mats and you have a vintage frame.

Map it out: Showcase favorite travel photos by covering a mat with a map from one of your vacation spots. Just trim the map to fit your mat, tape it to the back and insert your picture.

Get it on canvas: Treat your photos like the works of art they are by having them printed on artist canvas. There are a variety of online vendors that let you choose the size and photo treatment to create a unique piece for your personal gallery.

Put it all on the table: Add to your stylish decor and protect your furniture all at the same time by making your own photo coasters.

Find more ideas for creatively displaying your favorite photos at eLivingtoday.com.

SwANkY ShEEtS

by famIly fEatURES | Photo by UnSPlaSh

Many companies use thread count to make their sheets more appealing and luxurious, but a bigger number doesn’t always mean a good buy. Before you reach into your wallet, consider these truths about thread counts.

Understanding thread counts »

A thread count is a scientific term with strict federal standards on how the threads are counted. Simply put, it measures the number of threads woven together per square inch, counted lengthwise and widthwise. A 400-thread count sheet will have 200 threads lengthwise and 200 widthwise.

When a sheet has a count of 150, it is considered a muslin fabric, which isn’t all that soft to the touch. Any count of 180 or above is considered high quality, but anything beyond 400 is likely to only signify a higher price tag.

However, a sheet with a thread count of 200 can be softer to the touch than one with a 400 thread count. The quality of sheets depends not only on the thread count, but on the quality of fibers within those threads as well. Many stores and manufacturers tout Egyptian cotton as the best because of its long, strong fibers, which are more durable than most other cottons. Another high-quality cotton type is pima, also known for its extra-long fibers.

When shopping for new sheets, make sure you are looking at both the thread count and the quality. Look for a count between 200-400 and make sure the fabric quality is high to ensure you get the best bang for your buck, as well as a comfortable night’s sleep.

SERENITY AND STYLE

Decorating your house with blue and green

by KatIE laUGhRIDGE, tRIbUnE nEWS SERvICE | PhotoS by tnS

I’ve been witnessing this stunning blue and green duo grace the design tables quite frequently as of late, and I must confess, I’m absolutely loving it. The interest and enthusiasm from our customers and talented designers have ignited a creative spark within me, compelling me to delve deeper into this current trend.

Join me on this exciting journey as we uncover the beauty and magic that blue and green bring to our living spaces. Let’s dive in and discover how this dynamic color pairing can transform your home into a haven of style, serenity and timeless allure.

Step into the enchanting world of blue and green, where timeless elegance meets vibrant allure. At our shop, we’ve been showcasing the captivating combination of these hues, and we’re thrilled to see the trend sweeping across the design world.

One of our star pieces that hit the floor this past spring is a stunning fern green sofa, exuding a sense of nature’s embrace while subtly glam with its low profile, channel back and vintage velvet fabric. Against the backdrop of a fresh blue and white chinoiserie art piece, this sofa becomes the focal point, commanding attention.

To complete the ensemble, we’ve added accompanying blue chairs that harmonize effortlessly with the art and sofa, creating a symphony of color. This combination is a celebration of balance and creativity, where the cool tranquility of blue and the lush vibrancy of green dance in perfect harmony.

The trend is exploding as more and more individuals embrace the beauty and serenity this duo brings to their homes. Don’t miss the opportunity to infuse your space with this captivating trend, where blue and green merge to create a haven of style and peacefulness.

In the heart of the room, a stunning emerald green velvet sectional takes center stage, beckoning you to sink into its sumptuous comfort. Not only does this luxurious piece boast a rich texture, but it is also crafted with a performance fabric, making it both stylish and practical. The sleek and attractive design of the sectional exudes personality, as if it belongs in a moody lounge within a vibrant nightlife scene.

Despite its role as a workhorse piece of furniture, don’t be afraid to dress it up. The use of color in such a prominent and eye-catching piece can truly make a standout statement. Allow the emerald green to command attention and infuse the room with its opulence. Pair it with

accessories and accents that accentuate its richness, such as metallics or deep jewel tones. Embrace the boldness of this majestic sectional as it transforms your space into a haven of style and sophistication, fit for both everyday lounging and glamorous entertaining. Let this standout piece be the cornerstone of your decor, proving that functionality and elegance can coexist harmoniously.

A few months ago we asked our designers to create flatlays for inspiration, and we even found these tones popping up there as well.

In her design, Anne expertly balances shades of blue and green, layering different tones and patterns to add depth and visual interest.

The result is a visually stunning flatlay that captures the essence of serenity and natural beauty, offering inspiration for creating a tranquil and stylish space.

This fresh palette has me dreaming of a day spent in a lush, green garden under the clear blue skies. When creating her flatlay design, Anne was inspired by a rug sample we had just received at the shop, and she built her design around the dark blues and golds found in the piles. Allowing the details of the space to do the talking, she kept the larger pieces of furniture on the more neutral side. A cream sofa, soft blue herringbone chairs, and a caramel leather ottoman were imagined as ruling the room. Building on that soft foundation, Anne added color and pattern through the pillow selections and window panel fabric choices.

Embrace the freshness of a new color palette as we explore the art of decorating your home using blue and green. This vibrant combination offers a fresh spin on the classic blue and white look, infusing your space with a renewed sense of energy and modernity. Even the most sophisticated designs take on a refreshed appearance when adorned with this captivating colorway. While it doesn’t necessarily resemble traditional chinoiserie, the versatility of this trend allows it to seamlessly adapt to various design styles. Whether your aesthetic leans towards traditional, transitional or modern, the blue and green palette can be effortlessly incorporated, breathing new life into your decor.

So, get ready to embark on a creative journey where this dynamic duo takes center stage, rejuvenating your home with a vibrant and timeless appeal.

TALk OF THE TABLE

Forgo the fussy with these modern centerpiece ideas

by Cathy hobbS, tRIbUnE nEWS SERvICE |

PhotoS by tnS

There was a time when a dining table centerpiece was traditional and fussy. These days, the trend is toward the more relaxed and what can function and appeal for everyday meals and entertaining.

Looking for centerpiece ideas? Here are some top Design Recipes tips:

Do’s

Do look for interesting bowls and vessels to display your decor. Do look to create a grouping or vignette. A set of three items often works well.

Do transition your decor. Experiment with rotating your decor depending on the season or occasion.

Do consider reflective elements such as a mirrored element as a tray.

Try using real or dried fruits as decor elements. They not only add color, they’re relatively inexpensive.

Don’ts

Don’t use elements that are thematic or trendy.

Don’t be afraid to display a minimalist look.

Don’t overlook elements such as size and scale, especially when it comes to height.

Don’t blend too many different colors and textures so as to not overwhelm.

Don’t ignore the power of greenery and florals.

Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Award-winning television host and a nationally known interior design home staging expert and short-term rental/vacation home designer with offices in New York City and The Hudson Valley. Contact her at info@cathyhobbs.com or visit her website at cathyhobbs.com.

Small SPaCE SolUtIonS

Declutter the bathroom in six simple steps

by famIly fEatURES | Photo by UnSPlaSh

Due to their small size and heavy usage, bathrooms can become messy, cluttered areas for many families.

For those with smaller bathrooms, storage solutions can be even harder to find. Consider these organization tips to make your bathroom a clean and functional space for every member of the family:

Assess the mess: Go through all the cabinets and drawers to clear out unused makeup, health care products and medications. Make sure the items you keep are used on a regular basis. Items used sparingly should be placed in an alternate location.

Go vertical: Medicine cabinets can quickly get stuffed when combs, toothpaste and other toiletries are stored horizontally. Use organizer cups with suction adhesives to contain items vertically and save space.

Hang up in style: Old coat racks and ladders make perfect solutions for larger families to hang multiple towels. Snag an

old one from a thrift store and paint it a bright hue, like red or turquoise, for a stylish bathroom accent piece.

Avoid spills and squirts: Hair products, such as gels, mousses or hairsprays, can create sticky, tough-to-clean messes if liquid escapes the container in a drawer or cabinet. Avoid such mishaps by placing these types of items in plastic tubs instead of directly in the drawer or on a shelf.

Divide and conquer: Bathroom drawers can become unruly if not organized. To keep items separate and tidy, insert dividers, such as those used for kitchen utensils. These often come in fun materials, such as bamboo or stainless steel, to add a fresh look.

Assign cabinets or drawers: Try to use a large enough cabinet so each member of the family has his or her own space or drawer. This can help limit the amount of items high-maintenance family members can bring into the small area. Plus, it makes it easier for everyone to find their things.

lay tIlE lIKE a PRo

Steps to update bathroom flooring

by famIly fEatURES | Photo by UnSPlaSh

Updating the flooring can help infuse new life into tired, outdated bathrooms. For an upscale, polished look that doesn’t have to break the bank, consider installing tile flooring.

Before you get started, you’ll want to make some decisions about the look and feel of your flooring:

Ceramic or stone? Weigh factors such as porosity, how slippery the surface may be when wet and how well it retains heat or cold. Ultimately, your decision hinges on the needs and uses of your family.

Complement or contrast? Define the overall style you want as well as the colors and tones that will help best achieve your vision.

Big or small? Generally, the larger the tile, the fewer grout lines, and too many grout lines in a smaller space can create the illusion of clutter. However, smaller tiles can eliminate the need to make multiple awkward cuts, and small tiles are perfect for creating accent patterns or introducing a splash of color.

When you’ve got your overall look and materials selected, keep these steps in mind as you begin laying the flooring:

1. Prepare your subfloor. Use a level to check for uneven spots; you need an even surface to prevent cracks in the tile or grout as well as rough spots that could pose tripping hazards. Use patching and leveling material to create a consistent surface. Apply a thin layer of mortar then attach your cement backer board with screws. Cover joints with cement board tape, apply another thin layer of mortar, smooth and allow to dry.

2. To ensure square placement, draw reference lines on the subfloor using a level and carpenter square. Tile should start in the middle of the room and move out toward the walls, so make your initial reference lines as close to the center as possible. Mark additional reference lines as space allows, such as 2-foot-by-2-foot squares.

3. Do a test run with your chosen tile by laying it out on the floor. There are color variations in most tile patterns, so you’ll want to verify each tile blends well with the next.

4. Mix tile mortar and use the thin side of a

trowel to apply mortar at a 45-degree angle. Use the combed side to spread evenly and return excess mortar to the bucket. Remember to apply mortar in small areas, working as you go, so it doesn’t dry before you’re ready to lay the tile.

5. When laying tile, use your reference lines as guides. Press and wiggle tile slightly for the best adherence.

6. Use spacers to create even lines between one tile and the next, removing excess mortar with a damp sponge or rag.

7. As you complete a section of tile, use a level and mallet to verify the tiles are sitting evenly.

8. Let mortar dry 24 hours before grouting.

9. Remove spacers then apply grout to joints, removing excess as you go.

10. Allow grout to dry per the manufacturer’s instructions then go back over tile with a damp sponge to set grout lines and clean grout residue.

11. Once grout has cured - usually at least a couple weeks - apply sealer to protect it.

FUN FALL FLOWERS

by JEnn WIllhItE | PhotoS by aDobE StoCK

Autumn’s arrival is the perfect time to tidy up natural debris and spruce up outdoor landscaping before winter sets in. However, it doesn’t mean resigning to a blanket of ubiquitous matte brown across everything. Instead, it’s a prime opportunity to add some color and personality to last until winter’s freeze settles in, experts say.

“Speaking in regards to lawns, it’s really the best time to renovate them,” says Robert Pesto, owner of Restoration Landscape in Whiteland. “Especially if we’ve had a long hot or dry summer.”

Like with any project, it’s best to start from the ground up. And that means beginning with the lawn.

As temperatures cool, the time is right to aerate and reseed the lawn since the cool nights and fall moisture will work to offer a bit of a reprieve and refresher for tired lawns, Pesto says.

It is best to get the process rolling and completed before weather gets too cold and the lawn falls into dormancy, he adds.

Likewise, it’s the perfect time to get fall plantings in the ground as the season’s moisture lessens the amount of time spent lugging heavy hoses around to water new additions.

“The big box retailers are starting to unload all their plant material and making way for Christmas trees,” Pesto says. “So, they have unbelievable discounts on their plants. If you can get these plants in the ground in time before the ground starts to freeze, or we have some frost, your dollar can stretch a long way.”

Fall is also the ideal time to add shrubs and trees to an existing landscape.

For existing trees, take inventory, Pesto recommends.

“At the end of fall, once most of them have defoliated from their fall color it is a good time to look at the structure of the tree,” he says. “You can see the branch structure, injured limbs and limbs that are crossing raising canopies; So, it is a good time to prune.”

As trees and shrubberies begin to go dormant, nurseries oftentimes will make them available for wholesale and public purchase, Pesto says. Though you may miss out on their flowering, some flowering shrubs, like hydrangeas, are just fine to plant in the autumn.

“As they start to expire, you can’t fully appreciate their blooms but they are there for next season and you’re starting to get them established,” Pesto says.

Native trees, like oak, do quite well when planted in the fall as – like the lawn – trees do tend to favor the fall moisture to help them settle in.

It is possible to add pops of color to fall landscaping beyond the naturally abundant brown, he says.

Hearty mums are certainly a go-to locally, however, those that are flowering now are likely to not make it deep into the fall season, Pesto cautions.

Sedum, a large flowering plant that comes in a variety of colors from the softest cream to deep burgundy, are a great fall-flowering plant.

“In most cases, they get a real burgundy-colored flower, like a blood-red, and they are absolutely gorgeous,” Pesto says. “Especially when they are planted with other plants that have already had their bloom time and are starting to get the fall colors.”

Courtney Bray, owner of Court’s Yard and Greenhouse in Indianapolis, says zinnias are another great option for color as they bloom longer than mums. However, again, if you buy too early you miss the blooms, so proper timing is essential to achieve the look you’re after.

Other options for color include marigolds and Rudbeckia hirta, also known as the black-eyed Susan, which offers oranges and golden yellows to fall compositions. Another great fall bloomer is the sunflower, Bray adds.

“They require some deadheading, but will still continue to bloom through a hard frost,” Bray says.

Like Pesto, Bray also recommends Sedum for a fall landscaping accent.

Whether it be for ease of care or it’s simply an absence of

commitment to a single space, fall color can also be added via potted plants.

Verbena, also known as vervain, and coleus are great container options for both color and heartiness, Bray says.

“They can take all the way down to 40 cool nights, so they last through October and sometimes through November depending on the weather,” Bray says.

It is beneficial to keep an eye not only on the weather, but weather patterns, Pesto says.

“A good example is what we had last year where one of the most common plants in town is the boxwood,” Pesto says. “We lost a lot of boxwoods last year because we had one big cold spell that came through in the middle of winter.”

Know what you have planted, Pesto cautions. It is possible to grow delicate plants, just take extra care with them.

“Normally, we think of that in the springtime with a late frost

or a freeze after things start to bud or flower but some of these plants need protected in the wintertime, too, so keep that in mind,” Pesto says.

However, there’s a thin line between being cautious and stressing.

Once plants are in the ground, let them be and do what they are supposed to do, Pesto says. If the plant does not make it, it was simply a plant out of place, he adds.

One night of protecting plants against a hard freeze is well worth it. However, much more than that is futile and only creates undue stress on both the plants and people involved.

“If you are designing a landscape that has to constantly be protective, that is not good stewardship toward landscaping,” he says. “If we are working with more native plants that can work together throughout all ecosystems you shouldn’t have to worry about that at all.”

MARTIN FINE FURNITURE

Martin Fine Furniture has been serving namesake of the oldest furniture business in Indiana, was the third generation to run the company that was founded in 1854

Suzanne Sherman and John McDermott are the fourth generation in the family to control ownership of Martin Fine Furniture. Known for their custom ordering has the service and experience to back

Our commitment to providing a wide selection of beautiful furniture to choose from remains our top priority. We carry beautiful items for every room of your home and deal with more Our living room furniture includes sofas, sectionals, loveseats, sleeper sofas, chairs and recliners. We carry accent tables and ottomans to complete your room. For storage, we offer cabinets, chests and Our bedroom furniture comes in styles to suit every member of the

family. From canopy, captain, sleigh and poster beds to bunk beds and cribs, we carry an impressive collection. You’ll find everything you need to furnish a bedroom in our store, including benches, chairs, vanities, mirrors, dressers, nightstands, headboards and accents.

Our dining room furniture includes both traditional and contemporary table and chair sets, as well as bar stools, benches, cabinets, hutches, buffets, mirrors and more.

For the entertainment or family room, we have media consoles and wall units. And for your home office, we offer desks, chairs, bookcases and cabinets.

As past customers know, Martin Fine Furniture is the best kept secret in furniture selection on the southside of Indy. The tag line used for years, “you got that right” will re-confirm our commitment to staying in business, as a locally owned store that will accommodate custom orders. Financing

If you’re considering visiting area furniture stores, be sure to stop by Martin Fine Furniture, which is conveniently located in south Indianapolis near I-465. Contact us for directions or with any questions you may have.

S. East St., Indianapolis, IN 46227 317-787-8659 Monday

Martin Fine Furniture has been serving our community since 1854. Marty McDermott, past president and namesake of the oldest furniture business in Indiana, was the third generation to run the company that was founded in 1854 by his great grandfather, Michael Clune. Suzanne Sherman and John McDermott are the fourth generation in the family to control ownership of Martin Fine Furniture. Known for their custom ordering and quality of products offered, they have the experience to back up all products carried for furnishing the home interior. Our commitment to providing a wide selection of beautiful furniture to choose from remains our top priority. We carry beautiful items for every room of your home and deal with more than 100 different manufactures.

www.martinfinefurnitureonline.com

Address: 5420 S. East St., Indianapolis, IN 46227

Telephone: 317-787-8659

Website: www.martinfurmitureonline

Above: Martin Fine Furniture is located at 5420 S. East St. on the southside of Indianapolis.

Below: John McDermott and Suzanne Sherman are the fourth generation to own and operate the business.

Above: Martin Fine Furniture is located at 5420 S. East St. on the southside of Indianapolis. Below: John McDermott and Suzanne Sherman are the forth generation to own and operate the business.