The Color Comeback: How Design Trends Are Leaving Neutrals Behind
Article by Elise Habel | Photos by Nathan Satran
It’s been a dramatic 180 for a design market only recently dominated by neutral tones and muted color schemes. With firsthand experience in this vibrant shift in the design world, Tiff Davidson-Blades, co-owner of Davidson Home Furnishings and Design, describes the new movement toward warm color and pattern as an exciting endeavor. “The internet has a real downside for design,” Tiff explains, “and that is that people start to re-create what they see. The beauty of creating more interesting, colorful spaces is that people can't really copy eclectic looks.” Ushering in a new portfolio of one-of-a-kind homes and spaces that directly reflect each client's unique personality is a perfect fit for the Davidson Design team.
While the minimalist shades, according to Tiff, are here to stay, the warm color and pattern expressions are leaving their character-saturated mark on Billings homes everywhere. “We all need change!” Says Tiff. “We have lived in a neutral world for a long time now, and while the neutral palette will always be strong, the need for change has arrived!”
THE CANVAS
Perhaps the boldest shift toward more personalized design is the use of color. “More maximalist than minimalist,” says Tiff, “warmer earth tones vs cooler color palettes.” For a time, it seemed like every wall in a house was painted in a neutral shade, or the occasional accent wall made its appearance. Color drenching (using the same color on the ceiling, walls, trim, and doors) and color capping (splitting a wall horizontally with one color on the bottom and another on top) are two of the more recent trends Tiff identifies that are gaining popularity. “The desire for a warmer, cozy, nostalgic, comforting, and unique look in our homes seems to be something that people really want to see and have.”
Among her recent projects, one in particular stands out. “The home has rich medium wood tones, deep, intense colors in different rooms, such as a dark, sophisticated green, a warm, clay red, as well as bold accent wallcovering in key areas.” Unconventionally, but intentionally colored walls fill the home with immediate charm and soul. The paint, though, is made only more perfect by complementing furniture and accents.
THE TOUCHES
The curated pieces and furnishings in Tiff’s recent project brought the design vision to life as a standout home. “We incorporated patterns repeating the colors throughout the home in accent chairs and toss pillows in key areas.” Character is truly realized in the motifs expressed through larger focal points, such as on furniture and draperies. “Florals, stripes, and plaids are making a comeback in big ways!”
Hand-in-hand with the reappearance of pattern in design is the move toward traditional resurgence and away from modern looks. A cultural shift toward hobbies such as thrifting and antiquing is uncovering treasures that not only complement the aesthetic but also tell deep stories and bring familial roots into the home. “By incorporating antiques and art that might have a family story, we get to make a real statement that suits your taste, not someone else's.”
Another visual of the return to more classical design is the growing demand for heirloom furniture. Chairs with round arms rather than squared-off edges, and the reemergence of skirts to cover the legs of sofas and chairs are just a few examples Tiff has seen in recent months.
THE MODEL
A unique home can only be brought to life by unique people. The personality of a home is a direct reflection of the homeowner's heart. And personality, after all, can’t be duplicated!
“Our philosophy at Davidson's has always been that our job is not to design your home for you but with you!” Says Tiff. “Our job is to interpret your style and your vision for your home by getting to know you through the design process.” The goal of the Davidson team is to stretch outside of their own design styles and discover, embrace, and create your own!
For 37 years of business, the Davidson Design and Furnishings team has always understood that the most essential piece of every project is, of course, you! "The true key to success in interior design is originality and creating a home that is a reflection of the client, not the designer. We make that our top priority. Your home, your look, your life!"
