Colleen of Milwaukee emailed the other day with her design dilemma: "I'm a long time reader currently moving into my first 1 bedroom apartment. It's the first time I'll be able to decorate just the way I like it. I've been out of college for a year and finally financially able to put a little more quality into my decor. I like a clean, comfy aesthetic, but while I've found a few pieces I am currently purchasing (including this Ikea chaise) I'm struggling to decorate. I'd like to find a way to incorporate both my passions: music & travel. I love photography, especially black and whites, and the majority of the prints I have taken or collected are of concerts, musicians & various places I've traveled. I've looked, but I can't seem to find rooms centered on these ideas for inspiration that aren't strictly 'modern' (which is visually harsh to me). Do you have any suggestions?" Colleen, I think you've got it easier than you think. Black and white photography goes with anything, and I think this is true regardless of the subject. I think a vintage/boho look would be cool with your photography (which I'd love to see by the way), with a couple funky knick knacks/pillows here and there to relate to the photos. A wall painted black with a bunch of your photos framed in black (maybe with white mats) would be fabulous (if you own and can go that drastic). I also like the idea of the photos contrasting with the decor, like hung against a vintage granny floral wallpaper, with a retro leather couch or Victorian style settee below. I collected some photos that might help, and hopefully show you that the sky is the limit...
Wed, 20 Aug 2008
