We reupholstered this ottoman and added colorful throw pillows to give more punch to this great room.

One of the things customers have told us that sets Tracy Lynn Studio apart from other interior design firms is that we live out our name—we really do try to save you money. That doesn’t mean we resort to cheap, inferior products. Instead, we are experts at combining high-quality items with less expensive accents we find at area department stores and specialty stores. That allows clients to complement their timeless pieces with changing trends in colors and styles.

A home’s established or heirloom furniture tends to be larger, costlier articles such as the dining room table and hutch, side tables and even sofas depending on how much use they get. I usually advise against choosing high-use sofas and chairs with the idea that you will reupholster in a few years. Typically, reupholstering is as much or even more than buying new upholstered furniture. So it’s best to plan on replacing your heavily used upholstered furniture every eight to ten years, as opposed to a sofa in a formal sitting room, for example, which might last for many years. In either case, choose a neutral color and pattern for your longer-term items to allow for design accents elsewhere.

That said, it can be fun and cost-effective to reupholster one piece—such as an ottoman (see photo above)—to add that pop of trendy color. Another way to do this is swapping out throw pillows or lampshades, or repotting houseplants.

Combining bright color with a French influence is a 2011 trend.

This year, color is big! Think about adding pops of hot pink, lime green and purple to your rooms. Other popular trends are French-influenced pieces, distressed woods and mixing industrial design with other styles. All of this makes for a terrific combination because sticking just to an industrial style or to distressed woods, for instance, can feel bland, but when you add that bit of color it gives the whole room a fresh look.

You can pick up these less pricey pieces at places such as Restoration Hardware, Cost Plus World Market and Pottery Barn. We also have an extraordinary alternative we are almost ready to reveal to you where you will be able to get amazing, distinctive furniture and accessories. Watch this space for our announcement soon!

Please contact Tracy Lynn Studio for custom interior design services or if we can help with any of your decorating needs.