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Countdown to Laura M. Stein's
Top 10 Design Trends for 2011

As we celebrate the end of the recession, Canadian interior decorator and designer, Laura M. Stein, is celebrating the start of new trends for 2011. This years trends in home decor are all about decorating to the max, indulging your senses, and filling your home with splendor. 2011 is all about enhancing the simplicity of basic decor. Counting down from 10 to 6, here are some of Laura M. Stein's 2011 Home decor trends. For more information visit www.lauramstein.com

10. The Layered Look
Popular in fashion for years, the layered look is finally coming back to soften sleek contemporary interiors. Say goodbye to sparse, bare surfaces and hello to well-curated collections of accessories with loads of pattern, colour and texture. This look is all about the details, from carefully arranged table vignettes, to mix-and-match throw pillows, to lush pattern on pattern drapery and wallpaper.

9. Slide into the 70’s
In the last few years we’ve seen a strong 80’s influence with striking colours and strong geometrics. This year the 70’s are a billboard hit, but with an updated elegant twist. Think Hermes orange, milk chocolate brown, warm wood tones and soft, seductive curves on everything from furniture to lighting to accessories.

8. Warm Metals
While silver will always be a favourite friend, this year’s love affair is with warm-toned metals. Gold, of course, is the ultimate in luxury, while bronze has a more casual feel. Look for door hardware, light fixtures and picture frames in warm-toned metals. You’ll also find metallics painted on furniture, printed on wallpapers, even woven into fabrics.

7. Black
What comes around goes around and this year, black is the new black. It’s long been a designer trick to use a little black in every room to help anchor a space and give it presence. But this year black is taking centre stage. Add a little bit of white for crisp contrast and black feels fresh and vibrant. It’s being used with stunning results on kitchen cabinets, furniture, and even walls. Rustic or chic, glossy or matte, black creates a beautiful backdrop, a dramatic focal point or a highlighting contrast.

6. Luxury
Luxury is relative, but whatever you buy for your home this year, it must be gorgeous. From the smallest accessory to the largest piece of furniture, the lines, the colour, the texture, the finish, the craftsmanship should make you feel like royalty. So before you pull out your wallet ask yourself, “Is this fabulous?” If not, put it down and back away.