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When first approaching interior changes, it is helpful to determine the design style that will best complement the association. The community may already have distinct traits represented in its paint colors, hardware, light fixtures, monument or elsewhere. If it is cost prohibitive to change these items, it is often best to choose furniture and accessories that work well with the existing elements.
For example, an industrial design typically includes warm, neutral colors such as grays and whites. It often highlights a building’s materials and showcases the structure through exposed brick, beams, concrete and wood; materials are well cared for but typically free of finishing touches such as molding. If the community has an industrial look, neutral tone furniture and clean, straight lines will complement the existing style. Accent pieces such as tables or chairs made of wood or metal can help to accentuate the clean appearance of the buildings as well. Pendent lighting in a glass or an unfinished metal material with exposed Edison light bulbs can further add to the industrial feel while creating a warm and inviting environment. Lastly, if the space allows for natural lighting, live plants can add a touch of color to the new, neutral and clean space.
Similarly, a Zen interior style often includes soft, calming colors in shades of white, gray, beige or green. The space is simple with clean lines but unlike an industrial design, may include molding and other building finishes. If the association has an existing unadorned appearance, creating a Zen style interior may be quite simple through the use of plants and light and natural materials free of ornamentation. Consider furniture and accessories with clean lines in relaxing colors and utilize lamps to provide soft lighting throughout the space. In order to fully create a Zen design, items used in the space should be simple without complicated detail, made of materials found in nature and presented in light tones.
For those wishing to utilize existing décor,a rustic designmay be another wonderful option as the style frequently features an eclectic mix of furniture, accessories and materials which lends itself to working well in most spaces. Highlighting handcrafted, vintage and distressed items can add to the rustic appeal of interior common areas. While rustic designs tend to focus on natural materials such as wood and stone, the style also allows for other materials like glass, metal, clay and sisal. Additionally, the incorporation of unique antique pieces can further help to create a visually interesting and warm space. Although rustic designs also focus on neutral shades, pops of color are frequently added to accentuate the eclectic and inviting feel of the space.
16 Community Associations Journal | May 2016
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