Globally Inspired Styles with the Soul of Aligned Design

I’ve always been inspired by global design styles — the way they gather beautiful stories, textures, and colors from around the world. Each piece, from the art to the decor, carries a story, inviting us to connect with different cultures and experiences, weaving a rich tapestry of meaning into our spaces.

In my philosophy of Aligned Design, we focus not just on beauty, but on creating environments that resonate deeply with who we are and what we value. Global style naturally supports this, helping us forge a connection — not only to the wider world but also to ourselves.

When we Connect through design, we invite a sense of unity, belonging, and soulful alignment into our homes. A space becomes more than just a place to live — it becomes a reflection of the beauty of the world and the peace within us.

This blending of global inspiration and inner resonance is, to me, a new design frontier — one that honors the world’s diversity while supporting our personal journey toward deeper connection and authenticity.

If you love global design styles, you’re in good company — I do too. There’s something magical about how they bring together beautiful stories, textures, and colors from all around the world. Every piece tells a story and adds a little soul to your space.

At the same time, Aligned Design is all about creating spaces that don’t just look good — they feel good. It’s about making sure your home reflects deeper values and feels true to who you are.

So how do these two come together?
Global style helps you Connect — with the world, with different cultures, and most importantly, with yourself. It brings a sense of unity and meaning into your home, creating a space that’s as rich in spirit as it is in beauty.

It’s like giving your space a passport and a purpose — globally inspired, soulfully aligned.

Connecting Globally Inspired Style and Aligned Design

There’s a natural connection between globally inspired design and Aligned Design. Styles from places like Morocco, Greece, Turkey, India, and Mexico — and the free-spirited vibe of Bohemian design — bring so much heart, color, and story into a space.

When you blend that with the idea of Aligned Design — creating spaces that feel as good as they look — you get something really special. Spaces that aren’t just beautiful, but full of meaning, soul, and connection. It’s a way of living that feels good inside and out.

The Beauty of Art

Globally inspired and Bohemian styles are all about weaving together rich stories from around the world. With their layers of color, texture, and soul, they create spaces that feel alive and full of meaning. Bohemian style, with its free-spirited, eclectic energy, adds a playful depth that fits beautifully with my Aligned Design philosophy — creating spaces that don’t just look good, but feel like home for your soul.

My energy art is designed to complement these styles — capturing the beauty and essence of Moroccan, Greek, Turkish, Indian, Mexican, and Bohemian influences. Each piece is layered with fractal energy art, helping you stay aligned with who you truly are and supporting your goals energetically.

In my Connect Through a Tapestry of Modern Global Styles collection, you’ll find art inspired by these rich traditions, each one infused with energy and meaning — a perfect way to connect to the world and yourself, through your space.

Explore the collection here: Connect Through a Tapestry of Modern Global Styles

The Science of Color

Color plays a huge role in how a space feels — and it’s a big part of my Aligned Design philosophy. The vibrant palettes of globally inspired and Bohemian styles naturally create a sense of harmony and energy.

Think of the calming blues and whites of Greek interiors, the rich patterns and warmth of Turkish and Bohemian textiles, or the joyful bursts of color in Indian and Mexican design. Each one tells a story — and when we use color with intention, it creates a space that feels alive and balanced.

That’s the same approach I take with my energy art. Every color is chosen with care to support alignment, well-being, and connection — so your space doesn’t just look beautiful, it feels like a reflection of your true self.

The Energy of Well Being

Every global style carries its own special energy. Greek interiors bring a sense of calm and serenity. Bohemian spaces celebrate creativity and freedom. Moroccan design adds a touch of the exotic, Turkish interiors wrap you in warmth, Indian decor radiates spirituality, and Mexican design bursts with life and joy.

Through Aligned Design, we tap into these beautiful energies and blend them with what you need to feel supported, balanced, and at home. My energy art brings it all together — combining the beauty and spirit of these styles with intentional energy that helps you align with your highest well-being.

Surround yourself with the energy that lifts you up — every single day.

Personal Reflection, Growth and Alignment

At its heart, Aligned Design is about creating spaces that reflect who you truly are and support you as you grow into who you’re meant to be.

Globally inspired styles, with their deep cultural roots, and the free-spirited nature of Bohemian design offer the perfect canvas. They give you room to create an environment that tells your story — a space that evolves with you, grows with you, and helps you stay connected to your personal journey.

Because when your space aligns with your soul, it becomes a powerful part of your transformation.

Sustainability and Connection to Nature

Many global styles naturally focus on sustainability, and Bohemian design brings in its own love of upcycling and creative reuse. It all fits beautifully with Aligned Design’s eco-friendly approach — creating spaces that are not only good for you but good for the planet too.

Natural materials like Turkish textiles, Greek stonework, Indian silks, Mexican crafts, and the earthy charm of vintage Bohemian pieces help keep your space connected to nature. These elements don’t just look beautiful — they create a more harmonious energy that supports you, instead of working against you.

Bringing nature into your space can be simple and powerful. My energy art captures the spirit of flora, fauna, and the wisdom of Animal Medicine, adding layers of meaning and energy. Pair it with plants and natural elements in your decor, and you create a space that feels fresh, grounded, and alive — a true sanctuary for your soul.

In connecting to nature, we find a deeper connection to ourselves — calm, grounded, and alive.

The Results

At its core, the rich colors, stories, and patterns of global styles fit perfectly with the heart of Aligned Design. By combining art, science, and energy, we create spaces that aren’t just beautiful to look at — they lift your spirit and feel alive with meaning.

The result? Spaces that captivate the eye, uplift the heart, and resonate with the energy of who you truly are.

Ready to Create Your Globally Inspired Aligned Design?

Are you ready to take your home to a whole new level — one that not only looks beautiful but feels amazing and lifts you up to be your best self?

Imagine a space that’s tailored just for you — where every detail reflects your sense of beauty, the colors feel just right, and the energy supports your dreams. That’s what Aligned Design is all about. It’s the magic that happens when art, science, and energy come together to create a space that truly resonates with you.

Now picture fine-tuning your environment to boost your prosperity, well-being, love, and personal expression — all through thoughtful design and intentional energy. When your space is aligned, you’re aligned — and that’s when life starts flowing in beautiful ways.

Global style interior design plays a big part in this. It brings rich stories, soulful textures, and vibrant energy into your home — helping you create a space that’s not only beautiful but deeply, authentically you.

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What is a Global Design Style?

Global styles capture the essence of your adventures across the world, weaving together a tapestry of your experiences and stories. Characterized by vibrant hues, they radiate with the boldness of designs inspired by various cultures, suffused with rich textures and patterns. Every item isn’t just a decor piece; it’s a narrative, sparking curiosity and conversations.

Instead of adhering to a strict theme, treasures find their place without being confined by their origin. It’s a harmonious chaos where antiques cozy up to contemporary pieces, and nature plays its part—be it through the rugged beauty of animal horns, the serene presence of plants, or the raw allure of stones.

Although the heart of global design revels in its eclectic nature—melding elements from myriad cultures—certain colors and cultural symbols might resonate more deeply with you, reflecting your unique journeys and preferences. This design approach isn’t about uniformity; it’s about personal expression, celebrating diversity, memories, and the beautiful mosaic of worldwide cultures.

Examples of Global Style

Global design styles are a treasure trove of cultural richness and diversity. Here are some of my favorite styles and why I like them.

1. Bohemian: Rooted in a free-spirited and unconventional ethos, the Bohemian style celebrates individuality. It’s marked by an eclectic mix of vibrant colors, mismatched patterns, and a blend of old and new. Common elements include macrame hangings, colorful textiles, and layered rugs.

2. Turkish: Turkish design radiates with opulence and intricate detailing. Think of ornate lanterns, sumptuous kilim rugs, and Iznik tiles with their intricate blue and red motifs. Brass and copperware, often with intricate engravings, are also hallmarks.

3. Moroccan: This style evokes the allure of a desert oasis. Key elements include geometric mosaics, lanterns, carved wooden pieces, and rich textiles in deep reds, oranges, and blues. Arched doorways and lush courtyards complete the look.

4. Mexican: Bursting with vivid colors, Mexican interiors draw from its indigenous cultures and Spanish colonial influences. Hand-painted Talavera tiles, rustic wooden furniture, and vibrant textiles are central, along with folk art pieces and pottery.

5. Greek: Greek design channels the serene beauty of the Mediterranean. Bright white and deep blue are dominant colors, reminiscent of the iconic Santorini landscapes. Elements include airy linens, hand-painted ceramics, and rustic wooden details.

6. Indian: Indian interiors are a tapestry of rich hues, intricate patterns, and spiritual motifs. Brass lamps, colorful silk textiles, carved wooden furniture, and ornamental mirrors are typical. The vibrant colors—saffron, turquoise, and fuchsia—are inspired by Indian festivals and landscapes.

A common thread that binds these styles is the emphasis on craftsmanship and the use of natural materials, making them perfect for eco-friendly and sustainable designs. The use of wool, silk, wood, bone, and stone, among others, underscores a deep connection to the earth and traditional artisanal practices.

So, which ones resonates with your personal experiences, aesthetic preferences, and the ambiance you want to create?

Each style has its unique charm, narrative, and essence. Which one feels like home to you? Which one ignites your wanderlust or brings back cherished memories?

Let’s Create Your Global Style Design

Are you ready to transform your home into a sanctuary that not only looks amazing but also uplifts and supports you? Imagine that.

Think about living in a space that truly reflects who you are. How does it make you feel?

My approach to interior design, called Aligned Design, revolves around three key elements: art, science, and energy. It’s at the intersection of these three where the magic happens.

Creating a space that embraces your unique sense of beauty, color, and energy while attracting positivity in the form of prosperity, well-being, love, and self-expression aligns you with the universe. This alignment empowers you to lead your best life and make a positive impact on the world.

Global-style interior design, a part of this creative journey, is something you’ll truly enjoy as we embark on creating a space that’s perfectly tailored to you.

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Do you ever feel like it’s impossible to stay warm in the winter without spending a fortune on energy bills? If this sounds familiar, you may be surprised by how easy it can be to heat your home more efficiently. Smart home tech is one of our favorite solutions, but it’s not the only option. From high-tech devices to small changes in everyday habits, there are countless ways to boost your home’s efficiency — and make electric bills more manageable this winter.

Don’t Fight Mother Nature!

When winter hits, our natural inclination is to fight the cold by cranking up the heat indoors. This can be an uphill battle, but accepting the season for what it is — and even working with Mother Nature — can increase your home’s efficiency dramatically. One example is how the sun provides warmth year-round, even when the air temperature is cold. For this reason, an easy way to reduce heating costs is to open window coverings on sunny days, especially on any south-facing windows, because the natural warmth from the sun means less work for your heating system. Along the same lines, most people could change other small habits, such as closing the doors to any seldom-used rooms and keeping the vents in those rooms closed.

The bottom line is that your furnace has to work hard to keep your home nice and toasty, but you can give your heating system a break by changing your habits and by making efficient upgrades. Another easy change is to keep your thermostat set a little lower. Any programmable thermostat will work, but with a smart thermostat, you have even more control to adjust it as needed. For example, if your whole family is out of the house most of the day, keep it set lower during those hours, and you can easily raise the temperature when needed.

Insulate Everything

Besides heating the air inside efficiently, it’s important to keep cold air out. The best way to do this is to ensure your home is insulated properly. If you’re up for a DIY project, Family Handyman has an excellent guide for how to install insulation yourself. As they explain, installing insulation correctly is a major factor in how effective it is.

Along with boosting the insulation in your attic, don’t forget about insulating other spots that are easy to overlook. For example, Money Talks News recommends insulating attic doors along with your basement and other sneaky spots, such as electrical outlets and heating ducts. In addition to adding insulation, another essential step for keeping cold air out is to seal off leaks. According to the blog Direct Energy, an easy way to identify air leaks is to go room by room and either use your hand to feel for air or use a candle to see where the flame flickers. Doing this works best on a windy day, and you’ll want to turn your heating system off. Then, you can add caulk, foam, or weather stripping wherever it’s needed.

Target Other Energy Hogs

Heating may be the main culprit that drives up winter utility bills, but it probably isn’t the only source of increased energy use. When the sun sets earlier, it’s normal to compensate by using more indoor lighting. Not to mention, it’s awfully tempting to warm up in the winter by taking a hot bath or an extra long shower. The good news is that it’s easy to make these habits less costly. For example, switching to LED bulbs makes lighting more efficient. Getting a new tankless water heater will make those warm showers more eco-friendly. Alternatively, you can simply set your old water heater to a lower temperature.

The reality is that energy consumption is part of our everyday lives. That’s a fact that’s unavoidable, but what you can avoid is wasted energy. Whether you make small changes or big home improvements, each of these swaps will cut down on waste, all with the added benefit of cutting your utility bills at the same time.

Specially written for NorthernLightsStaging.com

By:  Dennis Kane  of the Winterize Guys at winterizeguys.com

Want to learn more about Eco-Friendly Design?

Eco-friendly Interior Design is a great thing to think about in all aspects of creating a healthy, cost efficient and beautiful space. Besides being energy efficient using tips as in the article above, you can incorporate natural and eco-friendly materials in your decor. See my article, Eco-friendly Interior Design- Why it Matters,  to learn more. Try my Aligned Design consultation to come up with an eco-friendly design plan for your space.

Need help creating a beautiful and eco-friendly design in your home? See my  Edesign and Online Services and let me know if I can help you!.

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Whether you’re committed to reducing your carbon footprint or simply want a safe, healthy home for your family, eco-friendly remodeling is a smart choice. Eco-friendly home improvements save money and energy, and limit the amount of harmful toxins that enter your home. Eco-friendly homes also command a premium when it’s time to sell; according to the Midwest Energy Efficiency Alliance, energy-efficient homes net 3.5% to 9% more per square foot than typical homes.

As you plan your next remodel, consider investing in one of these eco-friendly home improvements.

Increase natural light

There’s a reason people are drawn to homes flooded with natural light. Sunlight is energizing and uplifting, but you don’t have to go outdoors to enjoy its benefits. Increasing natural light in the home brings the sun indoors and decreases electricity usage, especially in high-traffic areas like kitchens and living rooms.

There are a few ways to bring more natural light into your home, including adding skylights or solar tubes, replacing solid doors with glass, or installing new windows. Talk to an architect to make the best choice for your home’s design.

Replace old carpet with green flooring

Carpeting is inexpensive, but those short-term cost savings can lead to long-term consequences. Synthetic carpet releases volatile organic compounds that harm air quality and human health. Synthetic carpeting also won’t biodegrade when it’s eventually thrown away. Natural materials like hardwood, bamboo, cork, and stone or ceramic tile are better flooring options for an eco- and human-friendly home. If you can’t give up the feel of carpet underfoot, choose materials certified with the Green Label or Green Plus Label from the Carpet and Rug Institute.

Redecorate with low-VOC paint

Paint is another big contributor to VOCs in the home. The next time you want to refresh a room’s look, choose a zero-VOC paint like Bioshield or Sherwin-Williams’ Harmony line.

Upgrade to energy-efficient windows

When you’re remodeling to save money and energy, nothing sucks energy worse than old, drafty windows. Upgrading to double-pane windows can save homeowners $126 to $465 a year in energy costs, and springing for energy-efficient windows adds another $27-$111 in yearly savings. In addition to keeping drafts out, energy-efficient windows have coatings that block the sun’s ultraviolet rays, protecting your stuff — and you — from sun damage.

Add an energy-efficient laundry room

Laundry rooms increasingly top buyers’ list of most-wanted home features. Turn a corner of the basement into a laundry room, or stack a washer and dryer in a first-floor cabinet for easy access. Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances in the process, choosing an ENERGY STAR washer and dryer to save money on your monthly utility bills.

Install a tankless water heater

Your hot water heater is the unsung hero of your home, providing hot water for baths, dishes, and laundry at a moment’s notice. It’s also one of the biggest energy users. Switching to a tankless water heater can reduce energy consumption 8-34% depending on how much water your family uses, leading to about $100 in annual savings. Not only that, but you’ll never have to worry about running out of hot water again.

Keep in mind that tankless water heaters have lower flow rates than traditional water heaters. As a result, you may need to install multiple tankless water heaters to ensure adequate pressure.

Don’t Forget Your Furnishings and Accessories

You can use eco-friendly Interior Design to include eco-friendly furnishings and accessories in your home. See the article, “Eco-Friendly Interior Design– Why it Matters” by Mary Ann Benoit of Northern Lights Home Staging and Design to learn more.

Eco-friendly home upgrades can seem expensive upfront. However, these home improvements pay for themselves over time. Not only do homeowners save on monthly energy bills, they also get to cash in on the high demand for energy-efficient homes when they sell. Instead of shying away from green remodeling, invest in eco-friendly upgrades the next time you renovate.

Written by guest blogger Ray Flynn of the DiyGuys.net. When he’s not working as a civil engineer, Ray Flynn spends his time dreaming up new DIY projects that promote green living. He created his own website, where you can visit him at diyguys.net.

Need Eco-Friendly Design Help for your next project?

Try my Aligned Design consultation.

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Our intrinsic desire to connect with nature and living entities is encapsulated in the term “biophilia.” Coined initially by Erich Fromm and later popularized by Edward O. Wilson, this concept has found a renewed emphasis in contemporary interior design.

Throughout history, our bond with nature has been pivotal, not only for sustenance and survival but also for spiritual rejuvenation and inspiration. Nature, in all its splendor, offers a plethora of colors, shapes, patterns, and textures that have always intrigued our aesthetic senses. Beyond the visual delight, nature nourishes our well-being. Plants, for instance, not only beautify our spaces but purify our air and offer sensory pleasures. Similarly, our reverence for animals can be traced back through art, religion, and their cherished presence in our lives as companions.

My personal journey as a wildlife biologist for 33 years, trekking the terrains of Arizona and Alaska, deepened my appreciation for nature’s designs. Be it the intricate patterns of plant parts under a microscope or the harmonious color schemes, I’ve often been inspired by nature’s unparalleled creativity.

In an ever-evolving technological world, the essence of biophilia reminds us of the solace nature provides. So, the question is, how can we bring this comforting connection to nature into our homes through interior design?

Natural Materials

Opt for eco-friendly and sustainable materials in both your construction and interior design choices. Discover more in my article on Eco-Friendly Interior Design. Embrace nature by integrating unique finds from your outdoor excursions – think branches, rocks, or shells – into your home decor. Elevate your space with indoor plants that not only beautify but also purify. Enhance your home’s synergy with the outdoors by strategically landscaping visible from your interiors. Design outdoor sanctuaries that beckon you outside. Seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor spaces with design choices and window placements that frame nature as living art.

Plants

Incorporate native plants in your garden to not only attract local wildlife but also ensure sustainability. These indigenous species are tailored to thrive in local conditions, ensuring they’re resilient and eco-friendly by preventing the spread of invasive species that could harm native ecosystems. On my Alaskan adventures, I’ve handpicked native perennials like wild roses, blueberries, and geraniums, which beautify my garden, attract wildlife, and even offer delicious treats. Indoors, adorn your space with houseplants that enhance aesthetics and purify the air. Choose flowering varieties for a burst of vibrant color!

Animals

For many, including me, a home feels incomplete without the affection of a pet. Their presence greatly enhances our overall well-being. When designing interiors, consider pet-friendly choices that not only facilitate but celebrate life with animals. Opt for durable upholstery and washable rugs to minimize pet-related wear and tear, reducing any stress that may come with adding a furry friend. Moreover, cultivate an outdoor space that’s both visually pleasing and teeming with life. Plant flora that captivates the senses and invites wildlife. Thoughtfully positioned plants near windows can provide natural ‘entertainment’, as you watch birds, butterflies, and pollinators drawn to your garden.

Color

• Incorporate nature’s hues into your home’s interior and exterior. As a certified color strategist, I’ve often drawn inspiration from the landscaping colors of clients’ gardens, converting them into paint shades for walls, front doors, or interior palettes. Think of the calming blues of the sky, lush greens, earthy browns, muted grays, and soft off-whites. Highlight with vibrant shades inspired by garden blossoms in pinks, purples, yellows, and reds or the autumnal tones of foliage like golds and oranges. While stark black and pure white are rare in nature, they can accentuate and uplift these natural shades. And remember, if a color dominates your view—even from a neighboring property—it’s worth integrating into your decor palette.

Art

• Get great photos of your outdoor adventures that evoke the feeling you had while you were there for art.
• Consider art that shows landscapes, plants, animals or other natural elements that bring you joy and work with your design and color palette.
• Incorporate energy art that connects energetically and spiritually to nature.

Scents

Scents can have a huge impact on the way you feel.

• Try a diffuser with natural oils of lavender, orange or other scents related to herbs or fruits to make the connection through smell.
• Flowering plants add a beautiful scent to your indoor space.
• Avoid products that emit harmful odors.

Lighting

• Use full spectrum bulbs to get the quality of natural daylight, especially in northern climates where light can be very limited in the winter. Living in Alaska, I can personally attest that they work and affect your mood.
• Lots of strategically placed windows provides an abundance of natural light.

Get the Look and Feel Good

Even amidst urban sprawl, it’s entirely possible to forge a natural sanctuary in your living space. Let’s explore how I transformed rooms with views of nothing but an adjacent brick building into rejuvenating havens. By leveraging earthy tones like greens, blues, and browns, incorporating artwork showcasing flora and fauna, and introducing real plants, I managed to evoke a “feel-good” ambiance that resonates with the calming embrace of nature.

We spend more time in our homes in general than we do anywhere else. Why not make it feel great with some of these tips! If you need help with your design, check out my local and online Design and Color Services.

Get Connected to Nature in Your Design

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Many people struggle with finding the perfect color scheme, often bound by the constraints of their existing finishes. But what if we make this more fun? Imagine magnifying and embracing your favorite color wholeheartedly. Welcome to the world of Monochromatic design!

Monochromatic schemes delve deep into one hue, exploring its diverse shades, tones, and tints. Visualize your cherished color transitioning from its lightest whisper to its richest depth, seamlessly incorporating white and black.

Why is it effective? The singular hue fosters visual harmony, resulting in a seamless design. Think of the design principle: “All greens blend” or “Every blue complements the other.” Their shared base hue unifies them, ensuring a cohesive look.

But isn’t monochromatic boring? NO! The absence of contrasting colors can be offset by using a range of “blue” hues for example rather than just one.  You can also create drama and interest with patterns and textures.

For instance, I could craft a monochromatic palette starting with the blue at 230 degrees on the color wheel. From there, I’d explore its spectrum, transitioning from pure white (unsaturated) to shades of light blue, deepening to dark blue, and ultimately black. To add richness, I might dabble with hues ranging from 235 to 250 degrees, all within the blue family, while experimenting with different saturation levels.

When I select my design pieces, I look for various materials, textures and patterns to add variety, such as mixing soft and hard, matte and shiny, smooth and rough, curves and straight lines etc.

Mastering Monochrome: A Singular Hue Living Room Transformation”

I created this living room design where I embraced a blue monochromatic palette. From pristine white to profound black, the spectrum features diverse blue hues manifesting in paint, furniture, drapery, lighting, and accents. Admittedly, the greenery introduces a dash of contrast, lending the space a touch beyond strict monochrome.”

This design incorporates some of my original fractal art in a collection called “The Sea”, which reminded me of white caps on the ocean and also uses variety of blue shades.

See More of My Blue Energy Art

See a collection of my blue energy art which could work beautifully together in creating your own blue monchromatic color scheme.

Benefits of A Monochromatic Color Scheme

• A monochromatic color scheme offers several benefits, including:
  1. Cohesiveness: By using variations of a single hue, the design inherently feels unified and harmonious.
  2. Visual Simplicity: Monochromatic designs reduce visual clutter, making spaces feel more organized and easier on the eyes.
  3. Flexibility: With one dominant color, it’s easier to mix and match patterns, textures, and shades without overwhelming the space.
  4. Depth and Dimension: By using tints, tones, and shades of a single color, you can create depth and dimension in a space without introducing multiple colors.
  5. Creates Mood: Depending on the color chosen, monochromatic schemes can evoke specific moods – blues for tranquility, reds for warmth, greens for rejuvenation, and so on.
  6. Easier Color Coordination: Choosing decor, furnishings, and finishes become simpler when you’re working within a single color spectrum.
  7. Timelessness: Monochromatic rooms often have a timeless quality and can stay relevant despite changing design trends.
  8. Highlights Architectural Features: In a monochromatic setting, architectural features can stand out more as they aren’t competing with varied colors.
  9. Enhanced Spatial Perception: In some cases, using a monochromatic scheme can make spaces seem larger or cozier, depending on the hue and its intensity.
  10. Focus on Texture and Form: With color variation minimized, there’s a greater focus on other design elements like texture, form, and material, allowing for richer tactile experiences.

  Using a monochromatic scheme can be a strategic design choice to bring tranquility, unity, and a unique aesthetic appeal to any space.

Celebrate Your Favorite Color

Imagine entering a room where every hue resonates with your spirit, instilling a profound sense of joy and tranquility. A sanctuary where you rejuvenate and spark inspiration. When your space mirrors your essence, harmony effortlessly follows.

Why not infuse the vibrant colors of summer into your dwelling? Or perhaps the palette of your cherished season?

Elevate your space with an Aligned Design Consultation today.

What is Your Global Design Style? Take the Quiz

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People often struggle with creating a great color scheme.  Often, we start the conversation by talking about the limitations, or the box of colors you need to play with based on your fixed finishes.

In my last article, Celebrate Your Favorite Color- Go Monochromatic, we talked about how you could take your favorite color and celebrate it in all it’s glory with a monochromatic color scheme. Simple and easy!

What if you would like a little more color variety,  but still want something that is simple and easy to create?  Go analogous!

Analogous color schemes are based on three hues that are next to each other on the color wheel. They are friendly neighbors, they like each other and  play well together:)

Analogous colors are harmonious and often found in nature.

Why does it work? They go well together because one of the three colors is usually a combination of the other two as with the red, yellow and orange peppers above.

Analogous schemes offer more color variety than monochromatic schemes while still retaining that harmonious and often serene quality, although it can also be more dramatic too based on the hues you use. It is also a simple scheme to create by using your color wheel and picking three adjacent colors that you like.    

Which three adjacent colors are your favorites?

For example, in my last article, I created a monochromatic design using blues and blue/purples around the range of 250-270 on the color wheel.

If I wanted to take this monochromatic design, and create a more analogous scheme, I could go clockwise around the color wheel and add the neighbors of blue in including purple and red-purple.  Or, I could go counter-clockwise  and add blue-green and green. 

I could also pick neighbors on either side and add purple and blue green. Let’s play.

Analogous Color Scheme #1

This design starts with our base blue as in the sofas and moves counter-clockwise along the color wheel to include blue greens and greens. I set the tone for this design with a new rug in blue green and then changed the paint color, lamps, side chairs and some of the accessories. I maintained the sofas and art as the anchor of the main blue color I wanted to harmonize with.

This design still maintains a calm, serene feeling similar to the original monochromatic scheme, but feels a little richer and warmer with the greens and blue greens.

Fractal Art

This design, as with the monochromatic design, incorporates some of my original fractal art in a collection called “The Sea”, which reminded me of white caps on the ocean and also uses variety of blue shades.

Analogous Color Scheme #2

In this case, I again maintained the blue sofas as the base color from the previous design and went clockwise around the color wheel to include purple and red/purple.

I found a nice rug that contained the 3 main colors I wanted to work with to tie everything together. Then I switched the paint color, lamps, one accent pillow and some of the art to bring in some of the other colors.

This design is a little more dramatic due to the deep, rich moody wall color and the high contrast of colors against the white background of the rug. I still think it looks calm and relaxing too.

Fractal Art

Here is some fractal art I designed that could be used in this design. My Forest Floor designs were inspired by colors in the boreal forest here in Alaska which have a lot of water in them (streams, ponds, rivers, lakes), thus the blues.  The purples represent many of our purple wildflowers. Mystery is a mystery…..use your imagination of what it means to you.

Benefits of an Analogous Color Scheme

Analogous color schemes use colors that are adjacent to each other on the color wheel. These schemes offer a harmonious and visually pleasing palette. Here are the benefits of using an analogous color scheme:

• Harmony and Cohesiveness: Analogous colors have a natural harmony because they share common color components. This results in a unified and cohesive look that’s easy on the eyes.

• Subtle Contrasts: While the colors in an analogous scheme are similar, there are still subtle contrasts that can be used to highlight or differentiate design elements.

• Versatility: Analogous colors can be adapted to both vibrant and muted tones, offering flexibility in setting the mood or theme of a design.

• Richness and Depth: Using several shades and tints of a color range adds richness and depth to designs.

• Natural and Comforting: Analogous color schemes often mimic how colors appear in nature, making them inherently familiar and comforting to the human eye.

• Easy Color Matching: It’s easier to match colors within an analogous palette because they share similar undertones, reducing the risk of clashing hues.

• Reduced Visual Tension: Analogous colors create a more relaxed visual experience because there’s a lack of high contrast between the colors.

• Flexibility in Highlighting: One can easily highlight an element by choosing a color from either end of the analogous range, making it slightly more vibrant or darker than the surrounding hues.

• Aesthetic Appeal: This type of color scheme tends to be naturally pleasing and aesthetically appealing because of its harmonious nature. An analogous color scheme can look richer and add more color diversity and interest than a monochromatic color scheme.

• Enhanced Mood Setting: Due to their close relation, analogous colors can be effectively used to evoke specific moods or feelings, like warmth (reds, oranges, yellows) or calmness (blues, greens).  These are really nice for living rooms, dining rooms and bedrooms. Analogous color schemes can also be more dramatic based on the hues you select, placement of colors and how saturated they are.

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While analogous color schemes offer many advantages, it’s essential to ensure adequate contrast within designs to avoid them becoming monotonous or washed out. Using a neutral color or even a complementary color in small amounts can help add interest and break up the scheme.

Celebrate Your Favorite Colors

Imagine stepping into your space where every hue resonates with your spirit. It’s not just a room; it’s a reflection of you – a haven of happiness and tranquility. In a world where everything aligns, your surroundings uplift and rejuvenate you. When your home mirrors your essence, harmony is effortless.

Purchase an Aligned Design  or Color Consultation today.

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Here is the crazy story of how I started Northern Lights Home Staging and Design.

You never know when inspiration will hit. The question is, will you take action and do something about it?

My  inspiration came in a surprising way, from one of those silly “Facebook” quizzes. You know, one of those games that tell you who you were in a past life or what your handwriting says about you etc. One day I played “What is your true profession”. The answer was “Designer”. Whoa! This made me take a step back and think.

I had been working as a wildlife biologist for 25 years at the time, but back in 1980 had gone to school and gotten a B.A. in Interior Design. It was a passion I always had, but after getting my degree decided to pursue traveling and other interests. Life got in the way and I never did alot with it besides a few jobs, designing my own homes or helping friends.

Later, I pursued another degree in wildlife biology because I love animals and the outdoors, and took another path. Although I enjoyed it, I missed being involved in creative work. Working for the government did not encourage or inspire much creative thinking!

Over time, creative pursuits such as dance, music and art took on more importance in my life. Thoughts of starting another business (I already had a Bed and Breakfast) were in the back of my mind without a real idea of what it would be, just that I wanted something that would bring more fulfillment to my life.

When I got “Designer” as the answer to my true profession, I thought about that path not taken and wondered how my life would have turned out if I had chosen that path years ago. I do not know if it would have been the wiser choice, or if everything I had done was just preparing me for that path now, but something about that quiz totally spurred me to action! Why not now?

And so my business, Northern Lights Home Staging and Design was born on 11-20-2015.

And while I still worked as a wildlife biologist until December 2018 when I retired,  and continued to operate my B&B, I was thrilled to have this new adventure in my life and so glad I took action!!

My business started off focused on home staging, and evolved into adding Interior Design. With  my experience running a Bed and Breakfast, I added  vacation rental design and staging. I became more fascinated with color, and became a certified color strategist and added color consultations. That evolved into learning Edesign and adding online home staging, Interior design and color consulting.

On my first day of retirement from being a wildlife biologist on January 1, 2019,  I discovered fractal art and started creating my own art. Soon I created stores for my art and home decor on Society 6, and Pixels.com. Both stores include art a wide variety art and home decor products.

That evolved into creating wearable art on Le Galeriste.  

In each case, inspiration hit, I took action and I am amazed now at all twists and turns, new adventures in creativity and life that have evolved in less than 5 years from an idea inspired by a simple Facebook quiz.

Sometimes you just never know where your path will lead.

What inspires you and have you taken action?

Whether it is to start a new business, change your existing business, start a new path or hobby… I hope inspiration finds you and you jump in with both feet

As the season changes and we move from summer into fall, we are often inspired to change our decor. But why? Are there any good reasons to do it?

Why yes! There are several. And they are all good for us!

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1. Stay Connected to the Outdoors

One way to stay connected to the outdoors is by bringing the changing colors of the outside in.

Humans want to be connected with nature and other living things.  This longing for “connection”  is called “biophilia”.  

We have always been connected to nature, for survival, sustenance, spiritual renewal, and inspiration. Mother nature provides an endless abundance of beautiful color palettes, shapes, patterns, and textures to inspire us, our health and wellbeing, and our interior environments,

Feeling “connected” makes us feel good. One way to get that connection and those good feelings are to change the colors in our interior environment to reflect what is happening outside so there is an energy flow between the outdoors and indoors.

If you have considered the colors of your exterior view and outdoor landscaping in your Interior Design, you likely have a change of colors happening in the fall.

So the colors of fall may be different for everyone based on your location. Play with the colors you see outside your windows:)

While fall colors are typically shown as reds, yellows, oranges, browns and deep greens, the colors in your area may be different. 

For example, I grew up in the northeast and always thought of fall as having the beautiful reds of the maple leaves as they changed. Now that I live in Alaska, we have very few trees that turn red. It is mainly low ground plants that turn a deeper, darker red than the maples. Yet, we have a glorious gold color that many of the birches and cottonwoods turn that I did not see on the east coast.

• Bring the colors in by changing your accent pillows, rug,  art, or accessories. Work with things that are easy to change because you may want to change things in other seasons as well.
• Get outside, collect cool objects from your outdoor adventures to decorate your home including branches, rocks, shells, gourds, grasses, and more.
• Use of colors that harmonize with the outdoor environment. Use your outdoor windows as indoor “art”.
• Get indoor plants to provide a variety of colors, textures and improve your indoor air quality. Flowering plants are a special treat to add pops of color!

• Use the colors of nature in your home, inside and out. As a certified color strategist, I often measure some of the colors from clients’ landscaping (shrubs, flowers, trees) and translate that to paint colors for exterior walls, front doors, or interior paint palettes.
• Blues, greens, browns, off whites and grays, are great natural colors to try to bring the outdoors in since they are prominent in trees, shrubs, the sky, and water.
• Find pops of color from some of your colorful outdoor landscaping such as the fall colors of your trees, shrubs, or ground covers (golds, reds, oranges).  Black and pure white are not often found in nature but can be great colors to add to make the others stand out in all their glory. If it is a prominent color you can see from your windows, even if it is from an adjacent property, consider tying it into your color scheme.

Even if you live in the middle of a city, you can follow some of these guidelines to create a space that feels good and gives a sense of being more connected to nature. 

2. Change your Interior to go with the feeling of the season for you.

Fall feels different than spring, summer or winter. Biologically, it is the time we reap the harvest of our labors, prepare for the winter ahead and get ready to conserve our energy.

In the fall I want to relax after working hard in the summer. I feel like snuggling up and reading, enjoying a fire, taking a nap, stocking up for winter, making soup, putting the garden to bed, and slowing down. I bring out the fluffy blankets, enjoy the first fires in the fireplace, and more. I’m like my cat who moves from enjoying naps on the cool, hard floor to laying on the fluffy blanket on my bed in the fall.

I want to surround myself with warmer colors, fabrics, and softer textures than I did in the summer. My decor becomes more cozy and intimate. These things would not feel right in the summer.

So, I adapt my decor to match how I am feeling energetically at this time of the year, and in doing so, I feel more comfortable and enjoy my space more.

Create Connection During the Holidays.

Fall is filled with holidays to celebrate and decorate for including Halloween, Thanksgiving, Autumn Equinox, Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, Octoberfest, Columbus Day, and more. 

There are lots of ideas for decorating for different holidays online or you can create your own traditions. The main point is to create a special atmosphere to celebrate and connect with friends and family that is beautiful and comfortable.

Create Your Perfect Space for Fall

Here is an example of a beautiful living room Edesign I created to highlight fall decor. For me, fall is a time of darker and brighter reds of the shrubs and ground plants, mixed with browns and greens of the forest, charcoal of the rocks on the mountain tops with a light dusting of snow, with snow, golds, yellow and oranges of the hardwood trees. I love a nice fire, a soft rug under my feet and an intimate get together with friends, wine and cheese.

For this design, I used pieces because I was drawn to the colors and textures that evoke a feeling of fall to me. The design primarily used pieced from Arhaus. I also appreciate the natural, eco-friendly materials, the handmade artistry of some of the pieces, and the cultural elements I am drawn to when creating global-style designs.

Try Energy Art that Evokes a Feeling of Fall

Here are a some fractal energy art pieces I created that I think evoke a feeling of fall that are available in wall art, pillows and other home decor. The energy message for each piece and how it an help you is listed in the caption.

Are You Ready to Create Your Perfect Space?

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Summer is one of my favorite times of year. It’s warm and the outdoors beckons, the colors explode with flowers, fruit, an explosion of green growth and the showiness of all the male birds. There is a feeling of abundance and adventure. Completion of all the things you have sown. It is bold and beautiful.

Would you like to have that same look and feeling inside in your home year round? Take some color and other cues from nature and bring the outside in. Here is an example of what I mean.

This picture was taking by a friend down the road at a beautiful spot named Tern Lake. I love all the various shades of green from very dark in the spruce tree to the lighter shades in the shrubs, grasses and herbs. The sky has a beautiful blue along with shades of off white and grays in the clouds. You see various shades of brown in the tree and in the rocks in the mountains. The most striking color is the fuchsia in the fireweed in full bloom. And there are a few wildflowers with yellow in the foreground as well.

This is what summer looks like in Alaska to me.  We have an abundance of hot pink and purple wildflowers, but the fireweed is so “Alaskan”.

Fireweed is one of the first plants to establish in recently burned areas, which is how it got it’s name. It is a symbol of release, rebirth, and potential for something innovative and new.

The fireweed blooms from the bottom of the plant and works its way up. The saying here is that “when the fireweed blooms at the top, summer is over”.

So how do you bring the outside in? The easiest way is with a color palette that highlights the view you see outside your windows. Select either a neutral or a bolder tone from the view and use it on your walls. Select a more vibrant tone for accents, or even key pieces in your décor.

I loved the deep green and color of fireweed together and they symbolized “summer” to me so I decided to design   this calming Modern Global Style office with those as my main colors. I decided to experiment with an extremely dark shade of green for the walls, to make it feel calm and enveloping, like the feeling of being deep inside the boreal forest. I added additional green tones in accent vases, the lamp and fractal art that I designed called “Spring” and several plant accents. I added wood to the floors. I played with the color of fireweed in my furnishings such as the desk and two chairs.

To continue with the wildflower theme, I added a wildflower accent table. I added off whites to the bookshelf, desk chair, rug, drapes, flowers and some accents to balance things so it would not be too dark. By adding several layers of lighting, it helped keep it from being too dark, brought out the various shades of green of the paint color in different lighting and highlighted the art.

The Process

The End Result

Get the Look

My “Spring” energy art collection seamlessly intertwines the abstract with the tangible, channeling spiritual energies through the  vibrant color, patterns, and symbols. The “Spring” series in this design, in prosperous shades of green, symbolizes renewal, invigoration, and flourishing growth. Evoking the Wood Element from Chinese traditions and Feng Shui, it embodies, warmth, and idealism. Bringing the energy message of the outdoors in, it can  amplify the energy you want to channel in your endeavors.

Bring Summer Into Your House Year Round

Imagine stepping into your space, immediately enveloped by colors that resonate with your essence. Every detail feels right, sparking joy within you. It’s more than just a room; it’s your sanctuary for relaxation, rejuvenation, and inspiration. When your surroundings mirror your spirit, life flows seamlessly.

Why limit yourself? Infuse the vibrant hues of summer or the subtle tones of your cherished season into your home.

Invest in an Aligned Design or Color Consultation today and see the transformation.

What is Your Global Design Style? Take the Quiz

Aligned Design- All Rights Reserved.

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