Don't Trip Over Charges

The foundation stones for a balanced success are honesty, character, integrity, faith, love and loyalty.-Zig Ziglar

When asked how to determine a trip charge or a flat rate to see a customer, usually one should research the standard costs current in the market or the like services. Many times it should be in the approximate costs of $19, $29, $39, $49, $59, $69, $79 or $89. I usually charge $75 an hour. I determine this cost by taking the break even-point, my business overhead, the direct costs, which are attributed to the production of goods and services specific to my business. These costs are based on materials, labor, and the expenses for my product. Last, I take marketing statistics from social media or advertisements in effect when determining my contracting services. At this point my trip charge regulates my service charge.

As a business owner I have to consider two classes of contractors. These two classes are (1) the contractor’s that have the business he or she need, and (2) the contractor who is desperate for work. If I were a contractor with all the work I can handle, I would charge a higher trip charge. This trip charge would consist of $69 to $89 to come out to offer a bid of services. This charge would dishearten the frugal consumer, which is the point of doing this. This process will ease the demand of the schedule and services rendered. Try not to be insensitive to the client; they may need the company’s services in the future.

If the business cannot afford to lose customers, one should regulate the trip charge to $39 to $49. If the business owner remembers to reduce his or her trip charge, there are fewer losses in business, negative responses, and the more business he or she will acquire. If one is desperate for work, the price should reduce in scale once again to $19 or $29.

The only caveat is that there is a reason they might charge this price. The quality of work, ethics, or credentials may be a factor and that will be a bad decision. One way to look at it is this. There is a reason one restaurant has a line around the corner and the other across the street does not have a line. Even though both restaurants are popular, one has poor service, bad food, and terrible drinks. There is a reason the customer waits and pays a premium; better overall product he or she is looking for in the meal.

There are many names one should call his or her trip charge. The other names to pick from are service charge, service call fee, or minimum charge.

At times, I will waive the trip charge if the customer agrees to use my company for the complete service or if I do the work while I am there in the home. If that happens, I will charge the customer my hourly fee for the scope of business rendered and I will mention this waiver as a marketing tool after he or she have agreed to the work. Another method in explaining this waiver of trip fees is by explaining how I will apply the minimum charge to the work. Either one of these explanations will work, but the business owner should practice and see which method is easier to use in one’s sales pitch. Often, the discussions regarding minimum charges go away when one is agreeable to waive the trip charge. This may create more sales and services. This is especially beneficial if the associate answering the phones is not a proficient closer. Waiving a trip charge can rationalize pricing easier.

In summary, as I mentioned previously, a trip charge is the regulator for people to take an incoming call, give uncomplicated answers to straightforward questions. If one requires more calls, moderate the price. If the business has too many calls, increase the charge some. Use the edict of supply and demand to benefit the businesses control over the work schedule.

Patrick Tremblay is the Principal designer of Tremblay House of Design Services and the Professional Business Practices instructor for community colleges in Santa Clarita and Lancaster, California. For additional articles on interior services, pricing, and business procedures visit www.tremblayhouseofdesign.com

How to Manage your Spending

This is just wrong!

All the ads seen on television are so attractive. That is what product marketing does, it attracts you to want what you do not need. This dilemma feeds a spending habit and can contribute to debt quickly if one is not careful about his or her spending. Here are methods in regulating a spending frenzy and helps the buyer spend only on needs and not the wants.

Resist it first: Many times the person will see an item and buy it without thinking of the needs over wants. This is called impulse buying and the shopper in not thinking of long-term as much as he or she is thinking of an item as a have to own fad. Contemplate your last few purchases before jumping into another. Ask yourself, “Do I really need this or is it just something I want?” Walk away and think about whether you will regret spending the money or where will it go after it loses the charm creating the want. Consider this time as a cool off phase.

Avoid spending to alter your temper: Are you down? Do you need a pick-me-up? Well, do not waste your money on a purchase you will regret later when you are happier. Later, this hasty purchase may cause another crash in one’s mood after realizing what he or she has done. Ask a mature and supportive family member or friend, go workout at the gym, or walk on the beach. A nice alone time with a camera may be all one needs to get over a situation. This allows you to overcome the mood that spurs on crazy spending.

Avoid recreational spending: Do not entertain yourself with a trip to the mall or car dealership. Many people surf the web or see what is available and that is all one needs to satisfy the hunger. Going to the mall needs planning. This planning will ensure a successful visit without a costly mistake. I like to make a list of essentials or create a plan of action before visiting the stores. This is the best medicine for a recreational shopping virus. One should take the time to figure out what he or she needs sometimes that can be just as fun without the headache.

Be selective with associations: Desires are fueled by friends and lifestyles. Do not try to keep up with the Joneses; just be the influence that others are attracted to. So you say to yourself, “I don’t want to be the leader!” But the moment one makes a decision, he or she is a leader. Largely because people look at what you do and try to follow the same behavior. If you emphasis what you will be smart within your spending, your friends, and family will follow your lead. This is not a bad thing, so do not overspend to keep tempo with others, be selective on what you buy, and others will follow the same path.

Use credit only as an emergency: Cards are to gain credit scores not for ignoring your spending habits. The consequence for thoughtless credit card charging is spending more than one can repay comfortably. This thoughtless act creates animosity among couples and can drive a wedge between even the best of us. Only charge for emergencies, and only spend what you can payoff within that month. This will increase your credit without damaging your pocketbooks or your relationship. If you do spend for fun, realize you are paying up to 25% over what you purchased that item for as you are charged interest over the initial cost. Ask yourself” Is it worth it if you cannot afford the item in the first place?” 

Recognize your financials: Knowing what you have to spend is easier than spending too much and later realizing you made a mistake. Balance your checkbook, but if this is too much to ask, make a point to round up your purchase amounts and know what you have in the bank as a ballpark figure. This will help in developing a record of purchases and leftover funds. Develop a list what you need and what you have in the bank to spend. If you get a manila folder or envelope, and write your spending totals on the cover, it is easy to add up your spending as you go. You also have the information on your spending in one area so you do not have missing costs surprise you later. Again, ask a mature and trusted individual for financial matters that you may not be familiar within your accounting.

There you have it; methods in regulating a spending dilemma. This should help the buyer manage his or her spending habits for the needs and not the wants in the home. On another note, if the individual does a good job, and he or she saves some money in the process than by all means buy that something special if you want, but only after a success as a reward for a job well spent.

The Aqua Dissection

When one looks at a photo from a client, it would be smart to dissect the photo before selecting a color to recommend. Many designers will find a color that looks good with the photo, but the light reflective value (LRV) or the value (brightness) of the colors are not taken into consideration. In this photo of a diver swimming in the ocean, look at the 60-30-10 rule in design.

60% of the space should take on a lighter tone to accentuate other pieces without clashing.
30% of the space should reflect a medium tone to show accent and rhythm in contrast.
10% of the space should be darkest and show a variety or striking accent to the design.

With this rule in mind, look at the colors that are in the photo. These examples come from the color charts at Sherwin-Williams Paints. The following paint colors are listed clockwise from the light blue to the off white block. The Blue block by itself is named (Splashy SW6942) for you as a sample.This color would be an excellent color for a medium tone as this would make the space look smaller by visual reduction.


Colors taken from the Photo:

First row
Synergy SW6938
Country Squire SW6475
Outrageous Green SW6922
Larchmere SW6752

Second row
Splashy SW6942
Raindrop SW6485
Biscay SW6940
High Reflective White SW7757

Each color can be used within this room, but using the colors correctly is important. When looking at the overall photo, take the darkest and the lightest color and find a medium value. In this case, I took the color Larchmere SW6752 and made a decision to paint 60% of the space with this tone. This has a soft aqua tone that is not too bright in value, which causes eye strain, and it is not too dull in chroma.

For 30% of the space I chose a medium tone that is reflected throughout the photo. By using Outrageous Green SW6922, I brought an accent that will give character to the space. This color does not need to be large in samples but frequent within the space. This green is perfect when the designer is trying to bring in the color and the reflective value of the tone.

Finally, I wanted to bring in a dark color as an accent to the space. The color Country Squire SW6475 has just enough of a shade to it, but still reflects the green sea-life that lives in the ocean. The colors are stunning with the art, and the furnishings will not be difficult to find. This is a bold design, but if it is executed properly, the design will not suffer from the color choices.


As a variation, if the homeowner is nervous or absolutely does not like the outrageous green, a less dramatic color can be substituted to reflect a safe yet decorative theme. With this idea, I chose a safe color that reflects in the photo as well, but not as bold. This color is Composed SW6472. 

There are times when the homeowner cannot commit to change, but if you ease your design with some rational communication, you may talk him or her into a trial run. If you can do this, the homeowner usually likes it when they see it live instead of on paper.

The Tones of Dandelions and Roses

When asked to find the correct decor for a piece of art, it can become very clear the homeowner buys what they like, not because he or she has a plan, but because the art appeals to them.

Dandelions and roses

This example was a find by a customer, and I was entrusted to find a decor for the space. First, I interviewed the client to determine what style the homeowner was looking for. This client profile assisted in the process. Second, I decided on a decor that was within the budget, and fit all the needs of the client's wants. Third, I offered the client three choices to pick from. The design is determined by the client, but either route it is a process of creation.

This painting was found while shopping at the furniture store. The painting appealed to the client, so they purchased it without knowing what they would do with the art when brought home.

Rustic Sofa Table

After the realization set in, the client called for help.

After the initial meeting, I made a trip to the local stores. I was first inspired by this sofa table we purchased. The rustic look of this table is perfect if one wants to add a contemporary flair to a rustic design. As an opposition, by the use of wrought iron braces on the bottom, and the natural wood creation, I believed that the combination would be great for the space and the art.

Modern Accessories

I decided to look for a few accent pieces to accessorize the table and add more inspiration. Here is a gradation of shapes that reflect the natural wood tones and the splash of silver creates more of a modern effect. I later decided to add an accent piece of furniture, as well as a rug to base the design in the room. In my search, I found this clearance (100% wool) rug with stripes that resemble the silver, and some metallic tones to blend with the art of dandelions and a rose. The rose was an accent

Hand-tufted Wool Rug  

of ivory white; and the rug had ivory stripes, but the room needed another piece of furniture to incorporate the tones better.

I looked for a chair to place in the space, and I found one with the perfect colors and tones. I had to follow the lines so I brought in another line that was going the same direction as the rug. Wanting a more contemporary chair, I chose to bring in a soft striped textile with very modern arms. The home owner  wished for the combination of modern and rustic design, so I tried to accommodate the owner's wishes by adding a larger chair in mass, yet have a sleek frame to keep the appearance of a modern piece.

Modern Chair with vertical stripes

By adding the chair, the colors coordinated with the piece of art, the silver-gray stripe brings in the carpet, brown and the metallic tones were perfect, but the owner decided to add more after the chair came in. The other side of the room was turned into a sitting area, but the owner wanted to bring blue into the space, so I found a modern piece of furniture with track arms and nail head trim. The nail heads were silver to transition the design from one wall to the next. After I brought in the sofa, I wanted to add other tones from one side of the room to the other; by bringing other art in that room was made to blend into the sofa, but had the browns and ivory from the art, the carpet, and accent pieces.

Blended tones 

Accessorizing the space was easy as the area needed a natural element like a plant. The natural element softens the modern design and brings the space together. After adding the art above the sofa, the space needed an element to balance the wall. I did want to include a pot for the plant that mirrored the area from silvery blue and ivory accents. After balancing the space I believed the sofa needed more variety. I added a pillow to the sofa to bring the eye up and down as well as side to side. Using a pillow that reflects the art brought the design together. Everything was an opposition with squares and circles, vertical and horizontal lines, gradation of accessories, and the mass was small or large.

Balanced Space

The overall presentation works as a comfortable space with modern tones, and a variety of elements to embody the space. The owner was happy to see that what he mentioned in his profile, I was able to present in a concept of principles to bring the owner's design around. I finished the space and met every point (and obstacle) the owner requested. The room was very comfortable and the tones were soft and contemporary for the area. With the artwork as a focal point on the wall to the other side of the room, a transition was created by using the original art as a rustic character to moving into a modern complement.

Rustic and Modern

The finished space included the homeowner's art piece, but the process took a complete turn as the level of design was based off of the metallic flair and the images of dandelions and roses.
The room was a success and the homeowner was happy.

Emphasis for the Space

Top Colors in Carpet

I have many carpet suppliers, but Shaw Flooring is by far one of the most popular companies for supplying the country with innovative styles, and design, in today’s flooring. The mission of Shaw’s color, style, and design team is to guarantee that floors suggest the top colors that inspire lives in every area of life. After contemplating fashion, furnishings, and various cultures, the experts at Shaw identified eight colors that top the charts in flooring.

Cloud Gray

The absolute perfect gray is comparable to the color of the clouds just before it rains. Warmer than it is cool, gray is rarely boring. Starting on fashions runway we have seen the emergence, expansion and ultimately the saturation of gray in the market place and have enjoyed its sophisticated simplicity in infinite ways. Suffice it to say, gray will stay.

Safari Taupe

Classic taupe is the stepping-stone between the gray trend and its predecessor, the chocolate brown trend. Taupe is best described as a grayish brown or brownish gray. Taupe can be found in nail polish, couture, ready-to-wear, active-wear, accessories and is evident in the home furnishing markets. When the taupe trend is translated into furniture, it offers the very popular reclaimed look.

Ivory Coast

Today we are seeing different influences on our neutrals. The first influence is a warm camel color while the other is cool flax such as finely woven Belgian linen. Whites and off-whites continue to expand and grow in lockstep as the brightness of the colorful colors grows. White performs as the ideal backdrop for a show-stopper piece of art to really stand out. White is elegant, it is high tech, it can be as casual as a white t-shirt or as formal as a tailored tuxedo shirt.

Aquamarine

Known for its soothing and calming effects, aqua has evolved beautifully from its early days, enjoying long-standing partnerships with chocolate, lush greens, creamy whites and silvery grays. For homeowners who are drawn to living near the water, aquamarine infused interiors are very coastal and tranquil.

Persimmon Orange

Running the gauntlet between a juicy tangerine and a spice-colored persimmon, this color brings an energetic vibe to an interior space. Orange is often used as the signature color for key pieces of furniture or accessories. It is especially stunning when dropped strategically into an all-white interior.

Pink

Pink has grown from symbolizing baby girls and ballerinas into a color that is couture-worthy. Boldly representing breast cancer awareness has also helped create resurgence in pink's popularity. As a color that works well with any style, any gender, and any complexion, pink can be counted on to be around for the long haul.

Meditation Purple

The color purple of today is regal when blue-based, and spiritual and mysterious when red-based. Both versions are stunning but when paired together they are over the top.

Shutter Black

There is an age-old question: Is black the absence of all colors or the presence of all colors. In home furnishings black is the presence of all colors. No interior or wardrobe is complete without a touch of black. Black creates a much needed sense of depth and gravity. Black is basic and easy while being elegant and timeless. No other color can do so many things...black trumps all others with its style and versatility.

Though these colors are simple, they represent the many carpet colors that are popular in  home design and development. 

How to Sequence a Color Scene

Emerald Bay
Lake Tahoe, Nevada

When I was younger I did this art activity in a class and I had no idea what we were doing. I thought our project was the coolest art project ever. After 40 years of education and teaching art, I have still used the same project to excite the students. This art activity never fails as a mini 3-D book, a themed card for a special event, or a sequencing lesson of events. I usually have the students make up stories that coincides with the picture so the kids have a hands on success.

In the following pictures, one will see a lake scene created by sequencing the pages. This is a project the class worked on recently, where the student learned about color coordinating, three-dimensional art, motor skills in coloring, cutting, sequencing, and story telling. This is a sample of a template that instructors may use in a small, medium, and large size to accommodate the lesson. At times, I will just use different colors of construction paper to simulate the colors we are using rather than using a crayon to color the art.

This is the lesson works in my class:

First the instructor should explain the process of each section and then give time limits to reduce the amount of distractions and behavioral issues. This is a good lesson to have parents volunteer for because the lesson runs more smoothly if there are plenty of helpers to assist the students. Set-up and supplies are as follows;

1. Have five stations, one for each page of the book
2. Have each station supplied with scissors, coloring crayons, and pencils
3. There is card stock or construction paper in each station
4. There are sentence strips or strips of lined paper to use for the text portion of the project
5. Last, there is glue or tape if the class decides to add embellishments like the sun, or birds flying, or flowers.

This is the base color for the back page. 
Make sure to cut out an oval for the  template

Here is the next template, make sure you 
cut out the middle and leave the brown attached

And the next...Cut out the the middle and leave the dark blue 

Cut around the green and move onto the last page

Here is the completed book with a scene of the lake. 

Add an embellishment to the cover like this sun 

or add birds or a boat to the piece.

There you go, a great way to create something special for your children. 

The students will love the feeling of accomplishment and the parents 

will appreciate the hard work as well. 

Art in Elementary School

Painting by PST

An art curriculum is an extensive result of research from resources and dedication to the development of a guideline in art lessons adopted by the school district. Many of these lessons are influenced by the many classroom teachers that offer input on the national and state standards. This standard is used to plan art classes, integrate art and other studies like language arts and social studies.

Teachers are encouraged to develop an approach where he or she will use a theme to influence the area of study. These resources are influenced by artists locally and historical in the profession. Local artist are asked to volunteer their time to introduce the many practices in the art curriculum. Students tend to learn more and enjoy meeting local artists and experiencing the knowledge the artist offers or the talent visualized by the students with the encouragement of the artist. This can promote art as a specialized field that students would choose as a career.

Introduction

The National Standards for Arts Education (NSAE) was published in 1994. I was an elementary reading specialist at the time, and researched this extensively. What I can remember is the NSAE defined that every young American should know what they could do in the arts. This was a cumulative collaboration of worldwide educators in developing these standards. These standards were published and later accepted officially by the U.S. Department of Education. Fortunately, every state was given the freedom to define content specific to the individual needs of each state. 

Before After

Standards have been written to guide students through instructional sequencing of instruction that will allow them to understand the elements and principles of art, as well as art performance, historical, and cultural context of the arts.

In these two photos the students look at a blank canvas. Then the students differentiate what they would like the space to look like when they are finished. In this example, the students wished to make a 3-D bulletin board that reflects a spring setting. Studies in critical response, enables the students to understand how to determine the techniques and to compare and contrast works in the arts to give them a scene in 3-D. The studies performed in aesthetic response enables the children in understanding the emotional impact of the art. In this example the students saw a natural setting in nature. The content standards are measured through a sequencing process. Each aspect of this board was executed on a sequenced table enabling the students to understand how the space is created by a series of events. 

In this appreciation to art, the context of understanding how nature is created can be assessed. The enjoyment of creating this scene was implicit in the process, and the students made an educated decision in the art. Another process was adding a sensory to the context of the lesson. At the end of the project, the first instructor distracted the children in imagining that the student's were at this scene by having the second instructor spray a room freshener that was scented with a country essence. When the children focused on the bulletin board instead of the discussion, some students imagined they could smell the flowers, the wind, trees, and some of the elements in the art. This sensory effect can implant the process in enjoying the creation of artistic development at an early age. This project was made at a kindergarten level so the experience would begin early in the student's life.  

The curriculum that follows was designed to accomplish the needs of all students at the elementary school level. This curriculum meets the national and state standards as it adapts to local resources and the demographic differences among socioeconomic class requirements in the district. These concepts can be measurable, so the lessons can be taught through instructional plans driven and standards based for assessment. These lessons are designed for all students to teach context with other subject areas. This provides a comprehensive foundation for arts. The following list is created by the N.S.A.E. to use during early education. 

In standards of art, the student will:

Explore the use of markers, crayons, and pencils

Experiment with a variety of methods of applying paint

Participate in various cutting and pasting experiences

Create patterns and designs using printmaking methods

Use modeling materials to create shapes and textures

Create forms from paper

Create sculptures

Build structures using blocks, boxes, or other materials

Develop pride in his/her work

Show respect for the others’ work

Clean up after an activity

Use materials safely

Design and Function

Students will begin to develop a perception of the elements of design, i.e., shapes, colors, and lines

Make and use shapes to create artwork

Use primary colors

Mix primary colors to create and use secondary colors

Use of design elements to create artwork

Content and Creative Expression

The student will identify and use representational subjects in artwork, e.g., family, friends,

Animals, plants

Create artworks based on personal experiences and familiar

People/things/places

Create artworks based on imagination

Art Heritage

The student will view and discuss artworks from different cultures and eras

View and discuss religious art

Learn about places where art is displayed

Begin to develop an awareness of art in the home, school, and church

Inquiry in the Arts

The student will have an opportunity to view a variety of artworks

Discuss and ask questions about artworks presented in class

Discuss the subject matter of artworks presented in class

Discuss the subject matter of his or her individual work

Inter-Disciplinary Study

The student will participate in lessons integrating art with other subject

Using Color in Decorating

Ikat Fabric and Wallpaper

Warm Colors are the easiest to introduce to a design because the colors remind homeowners of the fiery colors that radiate from the sun. These vibrant colors are reminiscent to fire engine reds, smoldering oranges, and bright yellows. These colors can make the room appear warmer, and the room will visibly advance. Cooler colors will recede and make rooms appear smaller or the walls close into the furniture. Warm colors give the illusion of intimacy but one should beware not to use warm colors if the room is already warm in character. This makes a space radiate too much warmth aesthetically. 

When using cool hues, one will envision water or ice. These colors are soothing as cool tones make a person cool down. These are shades of depths in the sea. Cobalt blues, aqua greens, and majestic purples. Cooler colors will make the walls appear to look larger; the cool wall color will seem to recede, making a room more open and airy. Cool colors are perfect to use in a room flooded with sunlight. The cool colors makes one believe they are in a cooler place as the psychological effect kicks in and the human psyche makes one feel cooler.   

Connecting with neutral colors similar to the family of tans, browns, beige, white tones, and grays can create a bond between colors and transitional spaces. Neutrals work to connect rooms as well as layer a foundation for more vivid color schemes or combinations. Mixtures are created by various colors, and colors have a psychological meaning that has been researched and studied for generations. In the last few decades, these colors have a refined definition that designers used in the industry of interior, graphic, and fashion design. The definitions are as follows, though they are not complete, this brief description will assist the interior designer in determining what the array of colors will do for the client’s home.

Red – this color can make one feel hot and is known to increase one’s appetite, heart rate, and passion. Red is largely used in residential dining rooms and fast food restaurants using this exciting tone in the color theme. Because red increases a person’s appetite, one tends to eat faster, and this is beneficial for fast food establishments. Red can often be applied in bedrooms adding alluring and sumptuous touches to enhance romantic settings. At times, designers use small portions of red hues in every room to increase warmth and comfort to the home.

Pink – Pink has matured and is not just for a princesses or toddlers. Pink along with touches of charcoal tones create a depth of richness. These neutrals embellish the look or intensity saturated pinks. Though pink portrays a softer approach to a feminine quality, the designer will balance the amount of pink with other colors to allow a mixed gender space in the bedroom. Hot pinks are still popular, but used in smaller amounts in addition to accommodate the aesthetics of the home.

Orange – Orange is known to develop nervousness and anxiety. When people feel edgy, they tend to fumble more or become frustrated. On the opposite side people tend to act giddy and playful. This color is high in energy and is perfect as a burst of color in a room. Orange can be daring in design and can create layers of color to energize a small space, such as the laundry room or hallway. A dull or shadowy space takes on a lively feeling as the bold color enlightens the space with this dramatic approach.

Yellow – this is the most controversial color in the color wheel. Thought often as a sunny and happy tone, bright yellows are aggravating and annoying if viewed too long. One should use yellow sparingly when decorating and only as a highlight in décor. If yellows are dominant as a design scheme, use golden yellows, butter tones, or pale tones of this hue. Yellows are tricky as it can have green traces that can suggest a sickly demeanor. Black can also change a yellow to a green tone, and this can creates chaos in the design. Staying on the lighter shade of yellow works best in decorating and can add a lighter nuance to the space.

Green – this is a natural color and can create a serene scheme if decorated with properly. Green can take on two jobs in decorations. These jobs are energizing and relaxing in various design settings. This can be done at the same time as a combination of tones. Good uses of greens are best used in a setting for bedrooms, living rooms, and for waiting rooms to create a perfect choice for tranquil, revitalizing, and stimulating environments.

Blue – this color can actually lower blood pressure and reduce an appetite in people. Needless to say, this color would not be effective in a kitchen or eating establishment as the loss of appetite may reflect on the food or the individual preparing the meal. One may even psychologically believe the food does not taste properly. The color blue and the tint of white are rebooted in trends or in fashions as realized in Wedgwood china, country decorating, and nautical design or navy schemes.

Purple – this royal and majestic color was just that a color representing wealth and positioning in class. This was a color that very few could afford in the earlier times of fashion and design. In the theater, a portrayal of nobility is symbolized in a deep purple and highlights of gold. Purple is best used in moderation adding richness or drama to the room without making the space look cagey or over theatrical in design. 

Black – this color does not just signify the rebel or a depressive cogitation. Black is a classic and regal accent color that shares a traditional and contemporary look in any room. Once thought of as an accent tone or a neutral to add to any upholstery piece, black is used in whole room applications partnered with rich tones or pastels, and accompanied by chromes, mirrors or crystals.

White – this color represents a clean and sophisticated class in design and white also can be used in traditional and contemporary looks in design and fashion. When one uses white he or she is trying to show spirituality, ethereal purity, and promote cleanliness. White is very popular in design, but designers will add various colors to add character and influences where a solid white could have a tedious presence in styles and textures.

Brown – another tone used to show a safe and a neutral tone in design has been rejuvenated from its former glory as a boring color. Brown is the new classic color that goes well in a rich design. Deeper tones of brown known as cognac, espresso, or Dark chocolate have accompanied rich colors such as various reds, burned oranges, bright pinks, electric greens, and smoky blues. Dark brown has moved into a multifaceted color and has been added to every color working as a strong companion in design and popular color scheme.

Whatever color used in a timeless collection, the tones capture a simple yet elegant design in today’s home and setting. The spirit a mixture of colors brings to a home is classic and transcending. The details of a crisp color can create a couture that a designer prepares for any individual looking for the next best trend. Colors should never be a fad, as trends seem to last and make a difference in future designs and styles. A high-quality or custom design can make or break a home’s success and as a designer it is his or her responsibility to deliver sound and professional advice to the public. With a refined eye, the designer will find the perfect materials and styles that capture the elegance and class that many homeowners are looking for in their home. Another important aspect in home design is the amount of calming and relaxation one can achieve through the colors used in the finished design.

Renewed Appreciation of Color

Do you want to know a secret?  It is our ability to embrace our darker understanding of what draws us to investigate and question. Most individuals are guilty of wanting the more irresistibly gloomy depths of despair and the dark shadows of mystery. Colors create mood, and moods create sensations of masculinity and aesthetics of a hypocritical era to an elaborate futuristic vibe. At times, perceptible mechanics intrigue us in why we question how something works. Whereas visual effects, eerie collections, theatrics, and  fabrics like tweed or hounds tooth bring to mind inspired attire worn by famous characters like Sherlock Holmes or historical times such as the prohibition era.

When thinking of these facts, I also think of my favorite subject—paint—and when colors that are available came to be here like the natural colors derived from plants or geography. As an artist, one experiences nature through the layered colors of mineral deposits riddling rock fronts. One looks at the egression of hues that sparkle from a polished stone that was in a running river bed or the sea. Last, one would look at the distressed and weathered siding of a rustic log cabin or farmhouse; these hues look chalky or earthen. The materials become organic, and have a raw finish naturally matte in appearance. Through time and stress, these elements work hand-in-hand to develop a softened splendor of beauty. This beauty can influence one in comfort, restfulness, and tranquility.

As a designer, one will take these elements and do as an artist does creating a palette from natural layers of colors inspired by the recent appreciation of nature. This craft shows a down-to-earth aesthetic. This is not a new thought; historical colors were created throughout history to emulate traditional colors. This scholarly study of hues began with the development of colors from the period the colonists came to America.

Designers will pick a company that reflects his or her concept in historical colors. This process is through resources and study of historical architecture.  A favorite supplier is Benjamin Moore Paints and the reasoning is that this company specializes in chronological colors. This review will offer colors that reflect the era of multiple styles in American history using colors from today’s suppliers.

The Colonial and Federal Style 

This was called The Colonial and Federal Styles (1640-1825) when a new nation was created from scarce and limited funds. The pigments came from natural resources like the land, plants, and fibers. These pigments created a dark and rich hue of affluence in a growing nation. Homes were painted in a solid tone, including the trim and doors, but  the interiors were colorful and contrasting. The Federal Period was a post revolutionary war time when colors became lighter and more delicate with detail. These colors were accented on the trim by using off-white or natural opaque’s like ivory or bone white, and doors painted in dark tones like black or shaded greens to create a darker tone creating paler aesthetics in design.

Using Benjamin Moore Paints here is a list of colors that reflect the era’s color palette.

The Colonial                                                          The Federal

Mysterious AF-565                                                  Crumb Cake CSP-1010

Tumeric AF-350                                                       Monroe Bisque HC-26

Tea Room AF-270                                                   Hepplewhite Ivory HC-36

Jungle Canopy CSP-900                                         Van Deusen Blue HC-156

Dinner Party AF-300                                                Hawthorne Yellow HC-4

Thicket AF-405                                                         Marlboro Blue HC-153

Blue Suede Shoes 798                                             Hathaway Peach HC-53

Coriander Seed AF-110                                            Mayflower Red HC-49

Rustique AF-275

Rainforest Foliage 2040-10

The Early Victorian Period

The Victorian Period (1830-1900) was split into two periods. These are the early and late Victorian eras. Broken down, the periods start with an Early Victorian style that includes Greek revival, Gothic Revival, and Italian Styles. This was an influence from the long reign of Queen Victoria, and there were multiple varieties of architectural themes. As time progressed many styles comingled and created a transitional blend of styles. These were broken down by periods, but the styles blend to create each styles trades mark.

The Greek revival (1830-1850) Many architectures were placed close to the street with pediments, or themed columns (Doric, Corinthian, or Ionic). Many of the styles were large in keystone and design and took on the look of ancient temples. This color style included tones that look like sand or stones, marbles, and light alabasters.

The Gothic Revival (1840-1860) inspired romance and picturesque settings with drama and excitement. This style involved structural embellishments like steep gables, archways, and ornamental trim pieces. The colors for this heavier style were earthy deep tones. The house body and trim were painted in the same family with times when the trim may have been darker in tone.

The Italianate Revival (1840-1880) these stately residences were elegant and restrained from heavy tones, but rather by natural warm tones that highlighted the details of the architecture. Doors and trim were left natural and unfinished with color.

Here are the tones that make up the early Victorian Period.

Greek                                                     Gothic

Suntan Yellow 2155-50                          Old Salem Gray HC-94

 

Golden Tan 2152-40                               Lewiville Green 494                                               

Cotton Tail 2156                                     Saddle Brown 2164-10

Mellowed Ivory 2149-50

Roasted Sesame Seed 2160-40

Camouflage 2143-40

Italianate

Audubon Russet HC-51

Nickel 2119-50

White Wisp 2137-70

Wickham Gray HC-171

The Late Victorian Era

The Late Victorian Era (1855-1900) was inspired by French architecture grouped with ornate designs, slate shingles mansard roofs, and delicately crested ironwork. This era was inspired by two periods. The Second Empire (1855-1885) and the Queen Anne period

(1875-1900) homes were embellished early in this period with warm colors, light accents, and stone-like influences. Later, in the Second Empire richer tones deep in colorful shades and bejeweled darker hues created a geode of sparkle and depth.

During the Queen Anne period, styles were accented in irregular compositions and were represented by patterned combinations of textures, materials, colors, and gradations of décor. The diverse range of colors were displayed by contrast ornamentation from the body of the home to the clapboards on the different stories are separate hues. The doors and window matting was accented to accentuate another tone of contrast.

The following colors were chosen to compare period colors with available tones in today’s paint choices.

The Second Empire                                               

Meditation AF-395                                                  Weathered Oak 1050

Olivetone 252                                                         Oystershell 864

Gondola Ride 602                                                   Forest Hill Green 443

Vanilla Cookie 372                                                  Land of Liberty 440

Blue Ridge Mountain 1043                                      Pineapple Smoothy 142

The Queen Anne

Dakota Shadow 448                                                 Ipanema AF-245

Sweet Basil 455                                                       Colorado Clay AC-15

Warmed Cognac AF-235                                         Savannah Clay 047

Glacial Till AF-390                                                    Cascabel Chile CSP-445

Wenge AF-180                                                         Dark Burgandy 2075-10

 

The Colonial Revival and the Bungalow Style

Americans began to look toward the past and found a traditional direction in architecture. The Colonial Revival and the Bungalow Style (1890-1930) was an interpretation of historical architecture from the Colonial era. 

The Colonial Revival (1890-1920) was highlighted with ornate doorways, railings, and dark hues for shutters and doors. The exteriors were light in color with soft to off-white trim. The window trims were drawn from the 18Th century, and the interior woodwork was painted and accented with popular wallpapers as an aesthetic combination.

The Bungalows (1910-1930) were small homes with signature porches and dormers. This distinguished look was generally accented by natural tones of rough shale and river or fieldstones, roofed with shingles, and finished in stucco for the exterior of the body.

The historic accents and trim colors were dark toned to accentuate the softer body tones of the home with a traditional super white to use in various historical home designs. These historical shades add a prominent finishing touch providing enhanced distinction to the main style of the homes conveying depth in each era while preserving esteem to historical detail.

The Following colors display the appropriate colors from Benjamin Moore Paints for the Colonial Revival and Bungalow styles. Included with this review is the historical accent and trim colors.

The Colonial Revival

Good Morning Sunshine 326                                Lemon Ice OC-114

Vale Mist 1494                                                      Dolphin Af-715

Spring Thaw 1508                                                 Sunburst 2023-40

Franklin Lakes 1643

West Coast 1671

The Bungalow Collection

Cattail CSP-295                                                       Silver Streak 2119-40

Secret Path CSP-800                                              Smoke Gray 2120-40

In the Garden CSP-805

Porcini CSP-195

Taupe Fedora CSP-280

Historical Trim and Accent collection

New London Burgundy HC-61                              Frostine AF-5

Bewitched CSP-450                                              Caliente AF-290

Bittersweet Chocolate 2114-10                             Universal Black 2118-10

Salamander 2050-10                                             Paris Rain 1501

These popular shades can distinguish a variety of historical homes, as the colors will enhance the primary color providing a contrasting style. The highlights will express a deep opulence that accentuates the architecture of the home. This richness in color channels the eras while preserving a reverence to details that display significance. The value of a historical home begins with the appearance of the home. The authenticity of the colors can show pride in expressing true characteristics of a period.

The ownership of a historical home whether by era or known history, evokes style and pride as the homeowner acknowledges the importance to details and worth. With this in mind, the colors chosen to represent these historical colors were derived from architectural documents that revealed formulas, chronological material specifications, and paintings depicting the period.