Romantic Influences

Whether in small doses or one fell swoop, you'll be charmed by the latest twist on this pretty and fresh design style.

Beautiful rooms are always in season, and romance-an inviting design trend from the past-is making a comeback. just in time to court our senses, lighter and brighter palettes; a flush of floral fabrics; plump furnishings; and subtle, dreamy hues bring timeless charm and a new perspective to any space. Romantic touches create positive energy and memorable environments, especially when the focus remains on comfort, simplicity, color, and fluid patterns.

Incorporating the Look

Wendy and Avron Fogelman asked interior designer Cecil Hayes to bring romantic style into their Boca Raton, Florida, home. "We were used to more traditional decorating," Wendy says. "In our living room, we wanted to indulge in another wonderful style by bridging the comfortable feel we love with lighter hues, floral patterns, and the look of romance."

Mix-and-Match for Impact

Cecil achieved soothing results by pairing lighter elements with French influences and a natural quality of simplicity. "The living room does romance you once you walk in," Cecil explains. "It is open, airy, and filled with pastels." The designer created maximum impact with fabrics, medium-tone woods, mixed period pieces, and a striking area rug in pleasing shades of olive, salmon, cream, and beige. "The room is anchored by a very large, rounded picture window," she adds. "Wendy and Avron wanted the furnishings to lead the eye toward the window to the water and the view behind the house, so we kept everything light. all the elements work together comfortably."

In spaces that welcome with classic simplicity, romance is always in the air. MAJELLA CHUBE HAMILTON

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Jul 2004
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