Spring is taking, as usual, a series of halting back and forth steps toward good weather. We’re all longing for the outside life and Rome epitomizes that life. Romans live their lives outside. It is a city of warm stone and beautiful weather. Pantheon Piazza by Dieter Hessel is a beautiful image of a beautiful corner of Rome built around this iconic building that is 2000 years old. The second photograph, Stone Tracks, also by Dieter Hessel is a strong stone abstract that compliments the almost delicate image of the Pantheon.
The city’s colours are a wonderful palette for a living room. The colours in the photographs are a good place to start- pale clay, deep terra-cotta, the warm white of pale stone, grey-brown and charcoal. These are all colours of natural materials and all are very comfortable and classic. Terrazzo tile, a wool area rug, a warm white sofa and walnut sideboard and coffee table are the room’s basic elements. An accent wall painted in a soft but vivid terra-cotta, a floor lamp with a pale wood shade and colourful side chairs with character give the room punch. Accessories should be simple but beautiful like this Paté de Verre Bowl by Toronto artist Shay Salehi.
This living room is one that will endure. Natural materials and colours and clean and uncluttered elements make a warm and relaxing environment - a holiday retreat.
