Sleek, modern, contemporary home decor. The spare minimalism, the cool lines; it's a striking backdrop to the most sophisticated city dweller.
The only catch? It takes a keen eye and a deft design hand to ensure that a cleanly iconic look doesn't veer into somewhat cold or impersonal territory.
One design secret to ensure an inviting yet modern space?
A dash of warmth from an unexpected source, something to add an unexpected dose of color in an otherwise neutral palette.
Talavera pottery, the original, hand-created Mexican pottery found in museums and private collections around the world, is a surprisingly satisfying source.
The key to personalizing a coolly contemporary living space without looking jarring or kitschy revolve around three key steps:
1. Be bold - but limit the space
A stunning splash of color can completely wake up an interior, but the adage "less is more" is the key. Note our Mexican pottery (an original Mayolica-glaze piece) sits front and center on the mantel, but only there.
2. Pick your color wisely
Don't throw in strong color, only to follow up with a pastel or mid-range. The muted neutral of a contemporary room invites accent, but pick wisely and with fuerte (force)!
3. Quality
The artisan original piece doesn't have to be expensive, but it should be of excellent quality. It's will be a focal point, so don't draw your guests' eye to something which won't stand the scrutiny. Of course, if it's something with authentic history, cultural significance - or the ultimate watershed - you just simply love it, well, be my guest!
Of course, I would argue that an item with those heart-warming, culture-grabbing characteristics is the true hallmark of quality, so, select away.
For example, the Talavera pottery of our online gallery, Rustica Gift & Pottery, is hand-curated to feature only the most authentic pottery pieces from Mexico. Our Talavera pottery artisans have been creating their masterpieces for generations, using only hand-made paints and glazes, so the purity of color and quality of workmanship is extraordinary. Yet, most pieces are well under $100, so the quality/price ratio works.
OK. Go have fun adding a dash of color and warmth to your contemporary decor home. Create that focal point, have fun with color, and create an ambience that is uniquely you, knowing the three principles of limited space, wise color choice and quality in selection will deliver the delight you're looking for.
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“One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.” – Virginia Woolf.
While there is no end to the personality of a well-heeled table, there is something to be said for the elegant simplicity of the under-stated table.
New Year Reflections: Loved Ones Around the Table
Take this day, this month and the new year to reflect with gratitude on the blessings small and large which have come your way. For so many that are in loss, may peace be upon you as you move forward with memories and love. Some of our loved ones get to be around our table this year, and some reside in our hearts.
Fall is approaching. There's a tinge in the morning air and the leaves will be arrayed in vibrant color soon. All of this seasonal change calls for delicious comfort food and equally delectable artisan handcrafted dinnerware.