Archive for 2010

Your 2011 Colour Horoscope

Monday, December 27th, 2010

Have you ever wondered about what’s behind our colour choices… or more so what’s behind the colour choices of your friends and family.  Do we pick specific colours or have preferences for one reason or another?  There are some that believe that our astrological signs do have an influence on the colours we pick.  This is a fairly light heart interpretation, but definitely something fun to take us into the New Year.

Capricorn (the goat)          December 22- January 20

Those that fall under the sign of the capricorn go through life with calm & deliberate actions.  Like the goat they don’t rush, but manage to get where they need in the end. (This because of their sure footedness.)

Capricorn’s are happiest wearing darker colours, (black, brown, navy or olive green) and enjoy working or living in surroundings where the walls are dark.  This is not to say that this sign is consists of sombre people, although they do tend to be conservative and conventional in appearance. The capricorn home is more likely to be a traditional home vs. an ultra modern space. furnishing are more often elegant with a harmonious use of colour and style. Translated in to the home the colours might be reflected in black lacquered Oriental furniture, perhaps some chippendale pieces and many dark green walls offset with one or two well selected paintings.

Aquarias (the water bearer)         January 21 – February 19

Often those born under this sign are ahead of their time and enjoy trying something new. Whether a fad in clothing, home furnishings or other this is the sign that will most likely embrace them.  Sometimes they will do this for shock value, the thing to remember is expect the unexpected.  However when it comes to colour they will likely be quite subdued, for the colour that best suites those under the Aquarius sign is Indigo (a dark grayish blue with a hint of black).  Monochromatic colour schemes appeal to the Aquarian rather than contrasting colours.

Pisces (The Fish)         February 20 – March 20

Many artistic people are born under this sign. (actors, painter, dancers…) The female pisces is truly feminine and the colours that make her the most happy are pastels. Of these colours the ones most often seen/used are turquoise blue and a sea green. Another popular colour for this sign is white and to a lesser degree grey. The pisces home is one that is most likely very eclectic reflecting their artistic side while having many pieces of art and nick knacks  on display.

Aries (The Ram)          March 21- April 20

Aries is the first sign of the Zodiac and is a sign that tends to make those born under this sign natural leaders.  For the Arien home look out for much red which signifies an active, energetic and often competitive lifestyle.   Ariens prefer opens spaces and high ceilings, so loft living is ideal for them.  Simple furniture with modern lines would often be the choice for their space and most often you’d find these pieces often on attractive wood flooring.  Light is important to their space which would come from large clean windows.  Those born under this sign are often found to have at home gyms or fitness centres.

Taurus (The Bull)          April 21- May 21

For those born under this sign it is about comfort and familiar surroundings that make them happy.  Taurus people often dream about, or do own their own home. The tempestuous bull is calmed by the colour of the sky; all shades of blue. Powder to Indigo; also rose and pink in a lesser way, but never or course red.  Colours from nature such as greens and browns will also soothe the Taurean. (often fans of nature and gardening) Those born under this sign also have a love of art, music and beautiful things which you’ll often find displayed within their home.

Gemini (The Twins)          May 21- June 21

Gemini should be a word that is synonymous with mercurial. Those under this sign become quickly bored by routine and frequently change jobs, clothes and surroundings.  On they other hand, they are immensely gifted, sensitive and have a very persuasive charm.  Clear yellows, greens & blues along with silvers and greys appeal most to this sign.  Those under the gemini sign with often change their spaces with the seasons; walls, fabrics & accessories.  Gemini person tend not to have too many attachments so it’s not a home that will be filled with antiques or objects from sentimental moments or experiences.  Those under this sign are much more suited to well design and fairly simple contemporary pieces, this helps in making the transition season to season.

Cancer ( The Crab)          June 22 – July 23

Unlike those born under the Gemini sign Cancers have a love of the past and this is mostly reflected in the comfortable and sometimes cluttered Cancerian home. Often these homes are full of antiques, books and nick knacks.  Because this sign is one ruled by the moon they suffer from mood swings that ebb and flow like the tide.  Colours which tend to put the Cancerian into a restful and pleasant state are opalescent moon colours.  These are primarily Green (sea green of sorts), along with shimmering Silver or Golds. Those born under the Cancer sign are the most home loving of all the signs and have a great love of food. So the kitchen and dining room is always important in Cancer home.

Leo (The Lion)          July 24 – August 23

Just as the lion rules the animal kingdom, Leo people tend to rule the roost, so to speak.  Those born under Leo tend to be extroverted, they like living it up in the high spots or entertaining in grand style with plenty of good food, fine wines and soft music. The colour which appeals most to those born under this sign is Amber (which is also their gemstone.) Oranges through to fiery reds are also colours that this sign will gravitate towards.  Their style of living is designed more to impress than to relax in. Definitely a sign to tiptoe around if you’re navigating the Leo waters for the first time.

Virgo (The Virgin)          August 24 – September 23

It’s all about being tidy in mind and manner with this sign. Those born under this sign are extremely precise with a place for everything and have few frills and fantasies.  Dove gray and pure pristine white are the colours you’ll find in their classic designed homes.  The home of a Virgo should always be very low keyed in colours; surrounding a Virgo with wild, bright colours will disturb their quiet inner nature. The popular neutral themes of today are definitely ideal for those born under this sign.

Libra (The Scales)         September 24- October 23

50% good natured and pleasant, 50% stubborn and restless… (I know which half I am…) Those born under this sign are often artistic and love harmony of sounds, colours, poetry and words.  Because of the focus around balancing life and creating harmony the Libran will move away from any clashing colour schemes. Pastels are preferred (really???), particularly soft greens, blues and mauves.  Furnishing in the Libran home are always in good taste and ambience will be soft and mellow. Music, interesting conversation, good food and fine wines will also be a part of this home. Again all elements that help to balance the Libran and their space.

Scorpio (The Scorpion)         October 24 – November 22

Scorpios have a strong, often forceful, yet magnetic personality and the colours which most appeal to them are strong and deeps reds; i.e. crimson…along with this deep red you’ll find rich blues, violets and indigo tones in their spaces.  Scorpio’s like to surround themselves with luxury and take much pride in their home/ space. Having good taste and enjoying comfort is key for a Scorpio, they hate any form of deception so you’ll often find pieces chosen for their space that have honesty and purity of design. Because of the Scorpians preference of deep colours, the overall effect of the decor would most often be somewhat sensuous and dramatic.

Sagittarius (The Archer)          November 23 – December 21

If you were born under this sign then most likely you love to travel and enjoy the outdoors.  Sagittarians love bold, bright colours… particularly blues, mauves and purples and most often not mixed in colourful patterns.  The Sagittarian home is most often a cheerful and down to earth home, more often eclectic rather than modern and sophisticated.  Casual furniture would be heaped with cushions and the home somewhat cluttered.  Sagittarians to find a hope in greens and yellows as well so it’s a sign that definitely has quite the range to choose from.

January to December, there are many meanings to the month you were born and more specifically the day. Hopefully you had a chance to read through and find out what you and your friends are choosing and perhaps why… it’s all in good fun and something to ring in the New Year. (Maybe even just a great way to get you thinking about new colours for your space.)  Let us know what  your sign is and what your decor style is all about. (furniture, walls and period)

renew your style with PARA Paints

Tuesday, December 21st, 2010

With a focus on the Benjamin Moore colour trends for 2011 a couple weeks ago it’s now time to see what the team at PARA Paints has to say about 2011. Looking at the 2010 trend colours there was a vast difference in what the brands were saying. Here we’ll find out if once again they have different thoughts or if they’re perhaps on the same page this year.

As the team at PARA says ‘nothing revitalizes like colour!’ Their 2011 colour & design trends show us exactly what great colour can do for a space.

Overall the palettes are full of strong and vibrant colours.  What is lacking however are a variety of neutrals (remember neutrals are characterized as white, off white, grey, black & brown) to pull it all together. Looking at the various palettes there are definitely similarities moving through them, yet nothing to really seperate one palette from another.

Have a look through the below palettes and let me know what YOU our readers/ consumers are getting from these colours.

REVIVE

PARA has characterized this first palette as being dramatic, edgy and full of energy.

  • bean bag toss P5049-42
  • candided apple P5042-83D
  • guys night P5248-73
  • garden plum P5096-85
  • church tops P5007-62D

REFRESH

This second palette is being described as urban with a flair while also being focused on recyling. My assumptions around the recycling is that PARA’ aim is on what you can re-use and re-fashion within a space to bring it some new life. Sometimes a great pop of colour on a single piece of furniture is just what you need to make it really stand out.

What you’ll notice in the first and second palette is that they have included a neutral but they are all greys within the same colour strip. The good thing… you can’t go wrong with a great grey, and the deeper greys of this colour strip are definitely warmer which is great for your space.

  • loft space P5248-44D
  • boys will be boys P5248-85D
  • mountain of toys P5161-41
  • assert yourself P5080-63
  • fashion girl P5194-63

RENEW

In this third grouping of colour we’re seeing associations with sanctuary, spirit and reconnecting.  Now before we examine the colours of this palette, take a moment to think about what you envision when you’re thinking about reconnecting, renewal and perhaps creating your own sanctuary.  Some may want this feeling in their bedroom or their main bath… we all have a space that we want as a place to feel as though we can just get away. Perhaps lavendars, soft blues, creamy/soft yellow or offwhite even some taupe or muddy greys and browns.  However be prepared for something new… PARA is redefining the idea of renewal through colours of deep gold, an emerald jewell tone, smokey/deep purple, warm taupe & a blue with smokey undertone.

  • golden rod P5058-83D
  • rockey crest P5104-73
  • epiphany P5159-24
  • headboard P5237-85D
  • northern exposure P5230-51

RETRO

The final palette is defined as swanky & chic with a little bit of funk.  All the colours within this group are strong & bold yet have been faded out or washed down to bring in that more retro feeling to the colours. The colour grouping works well together but I have a feeling they missed the opportunity with giving it a true ‘retro’ feel. Using black & white with hits of red or pink combined with the aqua would bring us back to that ever inspiring retro diner or kitchen that gives us the desire to recreate the look as something different and fun for our own space.

  • flamboyant P5191-63
  • no win situation P5111-41
  • fireside P5076-63
  • cotton sweater P5177-41
  • starless sky P5155-62

Over all some great colour choices from PARA with some similarities to what some of the other major paint brands are saying. A new direction for the brand… maybe we’ll wait and see what Sarah Richardson has to say about the direction of colour for 2011, perhaps she’ll have some influence over where PARA is headed in the future.

Have a peek at some of the colours here.

The Color Company Remembers; The Life Of Danial Hummell, One Of Our Own.

Monday, December 13th, 2010

It is with great sadness that we mourn the loss of Danial Hummell who passed very suddenly on Saturday December 11 2010. Dan was the manager of our Oxford and Wonderland location, and as such he had a commanding presence. Whether he was bear-hugging you and depositing you in a snow bank, or talking shop, you were in Dan’s shadow.Dan was to be married this April, to the love of his life, soulmate, and best friend Denise DeGroot. Dan’s life was centered around his son Liam Danial Hummell. Dan moved to London 8 years ago to be closer to Liam. Every day was a wonder to Dan, that he had been blessed with both Denise, and Liam, and the family they had become.Visitation will be held this Thursday December 16th from 6pm-9pm at the Logan Funeral Home at 371 Dundas St London, Ontario.On Friday December 17th 2010 there will be a memorial and celebration of Dan’s life at “his” store- Para Paints 611 Wonderland Rd North, at Oxford St from 11am-2pm, followed by the funeral at 3pm at the Logan Funeral Home, 371 Dundas Street. A reception will follow from 4pm-6:30pm at the Duchess of Kent Legion Hall on Hill St.

 

 A trust fund has been set up for the son Danny leaves behind. Donations to the Liam Danial Hummell Trust can be made at Para Paints 611 Wonderland Rd London – Para Paints 1815 Dundas St E London – Benjamin Moore 1166 Commissioners Rd. E London(Pond Mills area) or at the Logan Funeral Home on Dundas Street. Through online banking most financial institutions offer email money transfers. Funds may be emailed to the Trust from your online banking to liamhummelltrust@yahoo.com  For security question please use Liam and for answer please use Hummell

 

Good-bye Big Guy.
Good-bye Danny Boy.
You will be missed