Real estate agents say that to sell quickly, a home needs to be in a good location and have a “neutral” personality so that anyone can imagine living in it. I say, “Phooey!”
I live by the words of my brother-in-law, Carlos, a high-end builder who happened to walk in during a slight “disagreement” between me and my husband about whether we should paint the sun room white cloud (his idea) or oxford gold (my idea). Being a smart man he sided with me and said, “God made colors so you might as well use them.”
Feeling outnumbered, Miguel went outside to sulk on the patio while Carlos helped me go through paint swatches.
Of course a lot of my inspiration comes from Mexico but some of it also comes from a trip I took around the world last year with my three girlfriends when we traveled from Buenos Aires to Beijing with stops in Europe, Turkey, and India. It was the first time I had traveled extensively and I am grateful I got to learn about the food, art, people, and culture of each country.
Since I was with my friend, Donna, I also learned a lot about shopping — finding, bargaining and getting great deals in outdoor markets, antique fairs and bazaars. Now I have mate cups from Argentina, French antiques and Chinese lanterns mixed in with Mexican tiles and rugs. My challenge, of course, is to bring it all together as well as re-purpose what I have without breaking the bank. Not an easy task.
I started with ideas from Houzz.com that I thought I could use or modify.
Decorating With Color Inside
I love the vibrant colors in this old Cape Cod, but I know that while my husband may accept citrus blast, there is only so far I can push him.
Eclectic Hall: Image by Photographer Rikki Snyder
The eclectic mix on this mantel is something I can do!
Outdoor Lighting: Legends Lifestyle
I already have some of these Otomi patterns from Central Mexico, but I would paint the walls a nice butter yellow.
Otomi Throw Pillows: Jacaranda Home
Decorating With Color Outdoors
Some of the most lovely outdoor ideas are also the simplest, like the idea of decorating with color using a tablecloth like this, and adding a mirror to reflect nature’s beauty.
Los Angeles Patio: Image by Lisa Borgnes Giramonti
Our patio parties last deep into the night, and I think these would lend a festive air.
Blue Wine Bottle Torches by GreatBottlesofFire
Speaking of fire, this mosaic fire pit table would be perfect for holding s’mores ingredients.
Fire Pit Table: Iron Accents
Colorful Patio Furniture
If you like bright colors too, you can either re-purpose your old patio furniture or try something new, like these chairs, which come in all the colors of the rainbow.
Colorful Outdoor Furniture: The Open Room
Brightly-colored furniture is something I love. Here’s a sample.
Colorful Porch: Image by Sarah Greenman
This is definitely my style and fun to admire dream about!
Eclectic Garden Retreat by Harold Leidner Landscape Architects
Patio Ideas for Decorating with Color
Here are some of my other ideas for adding color! I don’t have a pool, but if I did, I would want it tiled like this.
Glass Tile Pool Mosaic: American Tile and Stone
Love this solar planter/container!
GardenGlo Solar Lighted Planters: BackyardCity
If you’re not ready for a full-blown color explosion, why not smart small with this planter?
Decorating with Color – Talavera Planters: Plow & Hearth
So there you have it, my current favorites. To see more, visit my Pinterest page.
Outdoor Rooms: Part of the Castle
Rooftop Gardens: Old Idea, Modern Benefit
Pergola: Add Beauty to Your Backyard
