Inspiration to go bold with color and/or pattern

I'm probably a bit braver when it comes to pattern than color - even though I love color so much - especially the jewel tones that are so abundant right now. I think I run into issues choosing a color - so I always fall back on neutrals, grays, or whites. The more I seek out bright colors and patterns, however, the easier it is to imagine using them in my apartment.

Blue and white is possibly my favorite palette - and I love the white chair with the bold blue flower motif.


If your mixing patterns - especially with a wallpaper pattern - make sure the scale of the wallpaper pattern is unique - no other object should have the same scale pattern. Notice that the scale of the rug pattern is larger than the wallpaper.
via BHG

The blue and pink make for instant romance. The headboard is actually a really affordable DIY - mirror tiles from Ikea.
via Sunset Magazine



via House Beautiful

via Domino Magazine

Pretty (and cheap) DIY headboard ideas!

An inexpensive antique door can be made to look like something you bought at Restoration Hardware. Looks like Martha and Country Living share brainwaves! Country Living lists the instructions here.
via Country Living, via Martha Stewart

A pocket door topped with molding and adorned with sconces makes a great space saving multifunctional piece - this one might be a little harder to pull off, however...
via Sunset Mag


An Apartment Therapy reader's success at making a headboard from a door.

*gorgeous* This mantle headboard looks fit for royalty
via A Fanciful Twist

ooo... I love this pale shabby chic version, too...

Really awesome directions and more pictures at Apartment Therapy.
She claims it only took $65 and 2 hours!