New paint collab! Stacey Dooley x COAT Paints

Urban Outfitters has collaborated with COAT Paints to introduce an exclusive collection of nine wall paint colors. This partnership brings together Urban Outfitters' youthful aesthetic with COAT Paints' commitment to eco-friendly formulations. The collection features a diverse palette, ranging from vibrant blues, pastel pinks, and a sunshine orange to neon green and various soft neutrals, designed to complement a wide array of interior schemes. The paints are formulated with a water-based, low-toxin, and solvent-free base, emphasizing sustainability. They are also vegan and cruelty-free, aligning with ethical consumer preferences. COAT Paints has achieved Carbon Neutral certification, further highlighting their dedication to environmental responsibility. The collection offers two finishes: a matt emulsion, priced at £40, and an eggshell finish, available for £25. The eggshell finish provides a moisture-proof soft sheen, making it suitable for areas like bathrooms, while the matt finish offers enhanced durability for other spaces. To facilitate color selection, sample stickers are provided, allowing customers to easily test shades on their walls before committing to a purchase. Rob Abrahams, Co-Founder of COAT Paints, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, noting that the new colors reflect a daring and purposeful edit with a distinct nod to 70s vintage styles, perfectly embodying the Urban Outfitters brand and its customer base. He also underscored the shared values between the two brands regarding sustainability, conscious manufacturing, and innovative product development, such as the Peel & Stick swatches that cater to Urban Outfitters’ fashion-forward audience. The article also provides an extensive list of 31 living room wallpaper ideas, offering readers diverse inspiration for decorating their homes. These ideas span various styles, from fresh floral prints and abstract designs to subtle ombré effects, geometric patterns, and rich botanical motifs. Specific suggestions include using wallpaper to create feature walls, paneling, or even to back shelves, transforming them into decorative elements. The recommendations also touch on practical considerations, such as using striped wallpaper to create the illusion of taller ceilings or opting for smaller, calming patterns for tranquil interiors. The featured wallpaper designs highlight different brands like John Lewis, Graham & Brown, Dunelm, Farrow & Ball, Little Greene, Woodchip & Magnolia, MINDTHEGAP, Paper Library, Cole & Son, Wallsauce, Nat Maks, Forest Homes, Elizabeth Ockford, I Love Wallpaper, Abigail Edwards, Scion, The Curious Department, and Mini Moderns, showcasing a broad spectrum of textures, colors, and artistic expressions. Themes range from rustic and tranquil scenes to glamorous touches and optical illusions, providing comprehensive inspiration for interior redecoration. #UrbanOutfitters #COATPaints #HomeDecor #WallPaint #EcoFriendly #InteriorDesign #PaintCollection #SustainableProducts #ColorTrends

The collaboration between interior designers and paint brands has become a significant trend, offering unique and personalized color palettes to consumers. These partnerships allow designers to infuse their distinct styles and inspirations into accessible paint collections, ranging from small capsule selections to extensive tonal ranges with various finishes. The resulting collections often reflect the designers' individual aesthetics, cultural backgrounds, and creative processes, providing a diverse array of options for home decorators. One such collaboration features Beata Heuman and Mylands, where Heuman's Swedish heritage and London experiences are evident in "The Dependables" collection. This range of 24 vivid colors, with names like "Crayfish Party," "Stockholm," "London Brick," and "Pub," aims to be unpretentious and reflective of everyday life. A notable shade from this collection is "Damp Leaf," which exemplifies the collection's thoughtful and lively character. Kelly Wearstler's partnership with Farrow & Ball, a landmark collaboration in Farrow & Ball's 75-year history, draws inspiration from the Californian landscape. Her collection, launched in 2021, captures the essence of California's natural beauty, from the Pacific Coast highway's grittiness to Malibu's hazy mornings, and elements like salty air, citrus trees, and the specific green of ocean waves. "Citrona" stands out as a key color from this collection, embodying the collection's vibrant, sun-drenched spirit. Rose Uniacke's collaboration with Graphenstone showcases her refined taste, offering a broad spectrum of subtle tones alongside stronger, more saturated colors. While known for her minimalist approach, Uniacke's collection demonstrates a nuanced understanding of color, featuring shades such as "Apple Mint," "Sea Mist," and "Dew," alongside clay reds, pine greens, aubergine, and flower-pot orange. The collection, with over 60 non-toxic, mineral-based options, ensures a serene environment, with "Winter Mint" being a particularly favored hue. Christopher John Rogers also partnered with Farrow & Ball for his "Carte Blanche" collection, a concise offering of 12 colors and three wallpapers. Rogers' childhood memories from Louisiana, particularly his family's food, served as the primary inspiration. Each color is designed to tell a story, with "Hog Plum" evoking the sweet and sour fruit of Central America and the Southern States, and "Raw Tomatillo" representing a joyful green reminiscent of his grandmother's fried green tomatoes. This collection emphasizes the narrative behind each shade, encouraging a deeper appreciation for color choices. Finally, Rachel Chudley introduced her proprietary line of paints, a unique venture developed through her collaboration with her father-in-law, master colorist Donald Kaufman. Known for his contributions to color theory since 1976 and his work in iconic spaces like Studio 54 and the Obama-era Oval Office, Kaufman's influence is evident in Chudley's bespoke paints. These paints, previously exclusive to her clients, are now available to a wider audience, offering sophisticated and expertly crafted color options that reflect a deep understanding of color and design. These collaborations provide both designers and consumers with opportunities to explore and integrate high-quality, distinctive color palettes into interior spaces. #InteriorDesign #PaintCollaborations #HomeDecoration #ColorPalettes #BeataHeuman #KellyWearstler #RoseUniacke #ChristopherJohnRogers #RachelChudley

Martha Stewart has unveiled a new paint collection in collaboration with Fine Paints of Europe, featuring 40 nature-inspired wall paint colors. This partnership marks a return to the brands' previous collaborations, which began in 1994 and became highly regarded among design enthusiasts and DIYers. The new collection offers four finishes—flat, matte, satin, and brilliant—and is available for purchase on the Martha Stewart storefront on Amazon. The line includes reissues of popular shades from Stewart's original collections, such as Araucana Blue, which was inspired by the eggshells of her favorite chicken breed, the Araucana. Other returning favorites include Glass of Milk, a warm, pink-tinted white, and Sharkey Gray, a versatile greige named after Stewart’s associate, Kevin Sharkey. These reissued colors aim to bring back the beloved aesthetic of her past paint offerings. The collection is organized into three distinct color categories: warm, cool, and neutral. The warm palette is designed to evoke a cozy and inviting atmosphere, making spaces feel more comfortable and welcoming. The cool colors are intended to impart a sense of sophistication and calm, contributing to a serene and refined interior. The neutral range focuses on creating balance and subtle elegance, serving as foundational elements that can complement various design schemes. Martha Stewart emphasized that the collection was curated to be both functional and appealing, reflecting her philosophy that a home should cater to both practical needs and aesthetic desires. Stewart expressed her hope that this new collection will inspire consumers' next home projects, highlighting that paint serves as the fundamental element in a well-designed space. She noted that choosing the perfect core design elements, with paint being the foundation, brings the entire interior together harmoniously. Although the paints are priced at $125 for less than a gallon, the article suggests that the rich pigmentation and luxurious finishes may justify the cost. The original Fine Paints of Europe collections were renowned for their silky texture and high quality, setting a precedent for the current offering. This launch signifies Stewart's continued influence in home design and her commitment to providing high-quality products that enable individuals to transform their living spaces. The collaboration leverages the established reputation of Fine Paints of Europe for premium paint formulations and Stewart’s discerning eye for color and design. The collection's nature-inspired theme underscores a timeless approach to interior aesthetics, encouraging the creation of environments that feel organic and harmonious. The availability of these paints across various finishes allows for versatility in application, catering to different design preferences and functional requirements within a home. The article also mentions ongoing plans to test the paints and provide further feedback, indicating an interest in evaluating their performance and confirming the quality associated with both Martha Stewart and Fine Paints of Europe. The high price point suggests that these paints are positioned as a premium product, targeting consumers who prioritize durability, richness of color, and a sophisticated finish. The reintroduction of classic shades from Stewart’s past collections aims to appeal to a loyal fan base while also attracting new customers seeking trusted and aesthetically pleasing paint solutions for their homes. Ultimately, the collection is presented as an opportunity for homeowners to elevate their interiors with colors that are thoughtfully curated and inspired by the natural world. #MarthaStewart #PaintCollection #HomeDesign #InteriorDecor #FinePaintsOfEurope #HomeMakeover #DesignInspiration #WallPaintColors #DIYHome

The article explores how to use paint to infuse personality and depth into a home by showcasing six expert-approved color combinations. Paint is presented as an accessible and affordable method for transforming living spaces, moving beyond the traditional single-color-per-room approach to create layered, curated, and chic interiors. The focus is on how specific color pairings can establish unique moods and energies, striking a balance between sophistication and surprise. Six interior designers share their preferred paint duos and explain the intentionality behind their choices. Beth Diana Smith highlights the pairing of olive green and classic tan, using Benjamin Moore’s Rosepine and Seasalt to bring richness, depth, warmth, and natural grounding, creating a sophisticated yet homey atmosphere. Justina Blakeney, known for her vibrant use of color, advocates for shades in the red-orange-coral spectrum. She recommends Benjamin Moore’s Golden Gate and Fiery Opal, which together radiate warmth, joy, and the impression of perpetual golden hour, blending seamlessly due to their similar hues. Kathryn Murphy suggests looking to complementary colors on the color wheel for effective pairings. She particularly favors deep burgundy tones accented with gold. An example provided is a living room with a rich burgundy ceiling paired with gold wallpaper, achieving a warm, luxurious, and inviting ambiance suitable for cooler seasons. Kelsey Grose expresses her current obsession with steely blues and warm, umber-toned reds. She illustrates this with a half-bath featuring an umber-painted window and door frame alongside muted blue/green wallpaper, recommending Benjamin Moore’s Dark Nut Brown for its depth, neutrality, and evocative color. Amanda Jacobs gravitates towards bold plum set against soft, light green. In one project, she used a deep plum in a hallway to create a striking contrast with a sage kitchen, resulting in a vibrant yet grounded, warm, and natural feel reminiscent of autumn leaves. Lastly, Alexandra Azat discusses monochromatic color-blocking by combining colors that share a similar base hue but differ in tone, depth, and temperature. For a vintage-inspired children's room, she paired Farrow and Ball’s Churlish Green and Yeabridge Green, creating a harmonious yet contrasting effect that is both playful and elegant. These designer insights underscore the transformative power of color combinations in interior design, providing practical guidance for homeowners seeking to personalize their spaces with thoughtful and impactful paint choices. #InteriorDesign #PaintColors #HomeDecor #ColorCombinations #FallTrends #DesignerTips #DecoratingIdeas #HomeImprovement

Color Atelier has introduced a new limewash collection in collaboration with AD100 designer Sarah Sherman Samuel. This collection features seven distinct shades of limewash paint, known for their rich matte finish and unique depth of texture. The partnership emphasizes environmentally friendly, artisanally crafted, and luxuriously opaque mineral-based paints, which are produced in small batches at Color Atelier's California facility to ensure high quality and meticulous attention to detail. The Sarah Sherman Samuel for Color Atelier collection includes a diverse palette designed to enhance any space. The seven shades are White Sands, a warm ivory for an airy feel; Buttercup Yellow, a soft and inviting creamy yellow; Sweet Berry, a deep, rich berry hue for a sophisticated ambiance; Desert Red, with earthy orange-brown tones reminiscent of brick and clay; Olive You, a grounding olive green; Summer Sky, a cool blue with a hint of lavender; and Warm Night, a warm black with subtle brown undertones. This range offers both muted options and natural tones, ensuring versatility for various design aesthetics. Limewash paint is currently a popular choice in interior design due to its distinctive textural qualities that cannot be replicated by other finishes. The application process allows for subtle variations, creating a textured surface that can appear either semi-opaque or fully solid depending on the layering technique. Each application is unique, contributing to the paint's artisanal appeal. Beyond its aesthetic benefits, limewash paint boasts significant sustainability advantages. With a history spanning over two millennia, limewash paint is inherently natural and eco-friendly. It is composed simply of limestone dust, water, and pigment, containing no harsh chemicals. This makes it an ideal choice for health-conscious consumers and families with children, as it promotes a healthier indoor environment. The paint aligns with a philosophical approach to design, where the lifecycle and environmental impact of products are carefully considered, offering a beautiful and non-toxic alternative to conventional wall coverings. Color Atelier, founded by Burcu K. and Olivier Garnier, is committed to quality and sustainability, values that resonate with Sarah Sherman Samuel's design philosophy. Samuel, an AD 100 designer, is recognized for her unique approach to interiors, product design, and styling. Her platform, The SSS Edit, serves as a comprehensive design reference, showcasing client projects, decor selections, fashion insights, and travel guides. The collaboration reflects a shared dedication to artistry and mindful design practices, bringing together Color Atelier’s expertise in mineral paints with Samuel’s discerning eye for aesthetics. This collection aims to bring the sophisticated and sustainable qualities of limewash to a broader audience, allowing individuals to create inviting and texturally rich environments while adhering to eco-conscious principles. The modern, reserved, and functional nature of the colors ensures that the inherent texture of the limewash remains the focal point, elevating the overall design of any room. #LimewashPaint #InteriorDesign #SarahShermanSamuel #ColorAtelier #SustainableDesign #HomeDecor #MineralPaint #TexturalWalls #EcoFriendly

Annie Sloan, a renowned furniture paint specialist, has partnered with Oxfam, a global charity dedicated to reducing poverty, to launch a new paint shade called Lem Lem. This soft green color, inspired by fields of white alliums Annie observed during a visit to Oxfam's Ethiopian Seed Project, carries significant meaning. In the Ethiopian language, 'Lem Lem' translates to 'lush green of fresh growth,' symbolizing hope and renewal. A portion of the proceeds from every liter of Lem Lem Chalk Paint sold in the UK will be donated to support Oxfam's charitable growth projects, directly contributing to their efforts in combating poverty. Annie Sloan's personal connection to the cause was solidified during her visit to the rural project in southeastern Ethiopia. She recounted how observing the allium heads, which appear white but reveal a beautiful muted green underneath, provided the initial inspiration for the color. This visual experience was deepened by a conversation with a woman farmer, who, when asked what green meant to her, immediately responded, 'Growth.' This profound response resonated with Annie and became central to the paint's concept. The collaboration between Annie Sloan and Oxfam originated from Oxfam's invitation for Annie to engage in a paint-related initiative. Annie, feeling a strong connection to Oxfam's mission, embraced the idea, which subsequently evolved into the creation of Lem Lem. Her firsthand experience of the severe drought in Ethiopia, the worst in 30 years, and its impact on the local population was a humbling and motivating factor in her decision to support the charity. Lem Lem Chalk Paint is positioned as an ideal choice for upcycling projects, offering a beautiful vintage aesthetic for furniture pieces. The paint is available for purchase at £18.95 per liter. The article encourages readers to consider incorporating this serene green shade into their homes, suggesting it can infuse spaces with a sense of hope and tranquility. This initiative not only provides a new decorative option for consumers but also offers a tangible way to contribute to a charitable cause through home decor. #AnnieSloan #Oxfam #ChalkPaint #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #Upcycling #CharitableCollaboration #GreenColor #EthiopianCulture

Diptyque, the Parisian luxury brand, has expanded its Home Décor collection with a new tabletop line called 'Artist’s Palette' and a range of wallpaper designs. This expansion builds upon the brand's 60th-anniversary celebration last year, which marked its initial foray into homeware. The brand's deep artistic heritage is evident in these new offerings, stemming from its origins in the 1960s at 34 Boulevard St Germain. This original store functioned as a creative salon, drawing inspiration from a diverse clientele of literary and artistic figures. The three founders, Christiane Montadre-Gautrot, Desmond Knox-Leet, and Yves Coueslant, a decorator, painter, and designer respectively, collaborated to establish an extensive archive of art, patterns, and designs, some of which are now part of the collections at the Museum of Decorative Arts in Paris. Diptyque has become synonymous with a cultivated chic and sensory pleasure, notably pioneering the widespread appreciation for scented objects like luxury candles. The Home Décor collections allow consumers to further immerse themselves in Diptyque’s distinctive sensory world, extending its recognizable aesthetic to tableware and wall coverings through a variety of textures and materials. The 'Artist’s Palette' range is a permanent addition to the collection, joining existing tableware lines such as 'Basile.' Unlike the monochromatic lines and curves of 'Basile,' 'Artist’s Palette' introduces a vibrant color scheme, featuring cerulean blues and soft greens that adorn vases, dishes, glasses, and trays. These collections are designed to complement each other, enabling the creation of unique and elaborate tablescapes. The newly introduced wallpaper designs are equally inspiring, drawing significantly from the maison’s extensive historical archive. These designs effectively showcase Diptyque’s heritage patterns; for instance, 'Pretorian' incorporates distinctive oval shapes reminiscent of ancient Roman shields, while the black and white 'Basile' design offers a bold and dramatic statement. The wallcovering range is characterized by its theatrical and sometimes unexpected nature, presenting a rich assortment of patterns and hues. Among these are three panorama wallpaper patterns—'Landscape,' 'Les Lilas,' and 'Jardin Clos'—which are directly inspired by the travel journals and pointillist sketches of Desmond Knox-Leet. Demonstrating a commitment to sustainability, Diptyque has opted for digital printing techniques on non-woven wallpaper, moving away from fabric-based alternatives. This approach utilizes advanced contemporary methods, ensuring a high level of precision during the printing process. Diptyque’s venture into wall décor represents a comprehensive journey through its history, showcasing its evolution into a contemporary titan of style. The new collections provide an opportunity to integrate the brand's unique aesthetic and rich heritage directly into home environments, offering both visual appeal and a continuation of its sensory design philosophy. #Diptyque #HomeDecor #ArtistPalette #Tableware #WallpaperDesigns #LuxuryHomeware #InteriorDesign #SensoryExperience #Sustainability

The beginning of a new year often sparks the desire to refresh living spaces, and for 2024, COAT Paints introduces its 'Polite Palette,' a collection of 15 muted paint colors designed to offer the ideal neutral backdrop. While yearly color predictions like Pantone's peachy tones or Dulux's light pink can be inspiring, they often lead to confusion. This new range caters to individuals seeking safer, more subtle shades, moving away from transient trends. The Polite Palette integrates seamlessly into existing decor, aiming to be a 'humble backdrop' rather than a standout feature. These colors span the spectrum of muted tones, including light greys for a classic feel, neutral pinks for a soft touch, and subtle green and blue off-whites to connect with nature indoors. Rob Abrahams, co-founder and CEO of COAT Paints, emphasizes that the collection is a response to ongoing customer requests for perfect neutrals and timeless styles. All 15 colors are versatile, available in five finishes: eggshell, soft sheen, exterior eggshell, flat matt, and floor paint, making them suitable for various applications. Committed to sustainability, the paints are made to order, ensuring zero waste, and are formulated to be low-VOC and water-based. The packaging is also 100% recyclable or made from recycled materials. The collection features a diverse range of neutrals. 'Nada' is a warm off-white with taupe undertones, perfect for those who find traditional whites too cold. 'Paper Plane' offers a cozy warm white with subtle green and yellow undertones, moving away from sterile whites. 'Greyfriars Bobby' is a timeless mid-grey, providing a polished and comforting atmosphere. 'Downtime' blends subtle grey with light pink, creating a sophisticated hue suitable for any room without being overly pink. 'Cat's Cradle' is an off-white with a pinkish tone, ideal for cozy spaces like living rooms and bedrooms. 'Amateur Ceramics' is a pale, warm stone color with red and grey undertones, offering an elegant organic feel. 'Slept Through' is a gentle off-white blue, perfect for a subtle hint of color that remains neutral and calming. 'Kimchee Fan' is a luxurious pale plaster pink that shifts in intensity based on room lighting. 'Weekender' is a warm stone neutral with pink undertones, designed to complement any room without feeling overly feminine. 'Voicenotes' is a cool pale duck egg blue with a touch of white, providing a sleek and sophisticated ambiance. 'Me Time' is an off-white with a hint of green, subtly bringing the outdoors in. 'Ujjayi' acts as a bridge between sage green and white, allowing for the incorporation of biophilic design without being overwhelming. 'Tonic' is a fresh off-white with blue and green hints, creating a natural and calming environment. 'Yes Chef' introduces an impactful aged terracotta red for warm and cozy relaxing spaces. Finally, 'Ghosted' is an effortless off-white grey that complements any decor style, making it a reliable choice for pairing with existing furniture. #COATPaints #PolitePalette #NeutralColors #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #EcoFriendlyPaint #PaintTrends #MutedTones #SustainableLiving

Stillmade, a Brooklyn-based furniture manufacturer and designer known for its support of emerging designers, has launched its inaugural Collaborative Series. This new initiative combines Stillmade's manufacturing capabilities with the creative visions of four distinct artists and designers: Danny Kaplan, Pat Kim, Michele Quan, and Stillmade's founder and creative director, Paul Mignogna, through his Mignogna Studio. The series features a collection of furniture pieces, including a sofa, credenza, hutch, side table, and two coffee tables, each reflecting a blend of artisan craftsmanship and a modern aesthetic. The collaboration with Pat Kim, a celebrated industrial designer and artist, introduces a playful and sculptural element to the series. His contributions include the Kim Coffee Table and Kim Side Table. These pieces are distinguished by their organically shaped bases, finished in hand-troweled, lime-based plaster. Sculpted wooden arms support circular tabletops, adding warmth and a natural touch to the contemporary designs. The interplay of materials and forms highlights Kim's unique aesthetic. Ceramicist Michele Quan's involvement marks her first foray into furniture design. For the Collaborative Series, her iconic celestial ceramic half-moon sculptures have been reimagined as functional cabinet pulls for two large-scale cabinet pieces: the Painted Credenza and the Painted Hutch. These pieces showcase a seamless integration of fine art into functional furniture, offering a distinctive and artistic approach to home storage. Danny Kaplan's Jane Coffee Table draws inspiration from Roger Capron's ceramic inlay tables. Kaplan designed a set of unique tiles that are set into the top of Stillmade’s minimalist solid wood table base. This design creates a compelling visual contrast between the base's clean lines and the organic geometry and textured surfaces of the rounded and oval-shaped tiles. The table exemplifies a harmonious blend of classic inspiration and modern execution. Paul Mignogna's own design practice, Mignogna Studio, contributes the Clifton Sofa to the series. This sofa prioritizes comfort and lounging while maintaining a sleek and minimal aesthetic. The design purposefully highlights Stillmade's manufacturing expertise through an exposed wooden frame and intricate joinery, demonstrating the brand's commitment to quality craftsmanship and thoughtful design. The Clifton Sofa embodies a contemporary approach to comfort and structural integrity. The Collaborative Series underscores Stillmade's decade-long commitment to making high-quality production accessible to smaller, innovative designers. By partnering with these artists, Stillmade not only showcases diverse creative talents but also reaffirms its dedication to producing furniture that embodies both artistic expression and functional elegance. The collection is a testament to the power of collaboration in the design world, resulting in unique and well-crafted pieces that bridge art and utility. #Stillmade #CollaborativeSeries #FurnitureDesign #ArtisanCraftsmanship #ModernAesthetic #HomeFurnishings #PatKim #MicheleQuan #DannyKaplan #MignognaStudio

This interview features Polly Doolittle, a decorative plaster painter who specializes in veneer plaster finishes. Doolittle brings organic textures and vibrant, earthy feels to residential home environments, operating her business out of Charlotte, N.C. Her craft involves using plaster as a fine coating for multilayered decorative finishes, distinct from its traditional use as a substrate or for drywall. She highlights the artistic nature of plaster work, distinguishing her approach to Venetian plaster by incorporating wax for a simpler process. Doolittle's journey to becoming a decorative plaster painter began with her background in ceramics. After working as an artist's assistant building props for Pride floats in the Bay Area, she sought to continue working with an artist upon moving to New York in 2018. She found a mentor, Ben Lai, through a Craigslist ad, who introduced her to plaster. Lai recognized her natural aptitude for the material, and she worked with him for a year, acquiring essential skills and techniques before moving to Charlotte. Her current work primarily involves range hoods and fireplaces, which she describes as her "bread and butter," making up about 75% of her projects. These commissions often come from clients who discover her work on Instagram. She also undertakes powder rooms, bedrooms, and accent walls. Doolittle expresses a preference for commercial accent wall projects due to clients' greater willingness to experiment with more distinctive finishes, such as gold mica or rustic textures, compared to residential clients who generally favor more subtle designs that offer a clean, organic feel. Doolittle details the materials she uses, primarily ground limestone, water, and sand particles of varying aggregate sizes. A fine topcoat finish results in a smooth, buttery texture, while a base coat contains larger sand aggregates. She exclusively uses products from Master of Plaster, a family-owned, woman-run business in South Carolina, for their organic composition and vibrant pigments, devoid of acrylic additives. She sometimes assists Lauren Dillon of Master of Plaster with installations. Her client engagement process includes an initial consultation and a site visit to assess the location and substrate. She ensures the surface is prepared to a "level 4" standard—taped, mudded, primed, and sanded—ready for painting. She presents a box of samples to clients to illustrate different textures, such as visible movement versus tactile texture or micro-texture (small holes or pores), helping them visualize the final outcome. For instance, Venetian plaster with pigment offers significant movement without a discernible physical texture. Once the design is finalized, color selection follows. While she operates as the sole decorative plaster artist in her immediate area, Doolittle maintains connections within a global network of specialty painters through Instagram, including a friend in Australia. She also emphasizes the importance of mentorship, citing Eric from Mudwerk in Charlotte, who has 30 years of plaster experience. Eric taught her the specialized craft of crown-molding mitering, involving patching, sculpting, and placing ornamental elements, a skill that benefits from her ceramics background. Additionally, Doolittle occasionally takes on decor projects, including portraits and other paintings. #DecorativePlaster #VeneerPlaster #PollyDoolittle #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #ArtisticFinishes #PlasterApplication #OrganicMaterials #Craftsmanship

COAT Paints has introduced 'The Polite Palette,' a collection of 15 new shades designed to offer timelessness over fleeting trends, challenging the prevalent 'Colour of the Year' culture. This launch comes as many paint brands, including Pantone and Dulux, unveil their highly anticipated 2024 Colours of the Year, such as Peach Fuzz and Sweet Embrace, respectively. While acknowledging the interest in these annual predictions, COAT Paints recognizes that a significant portion of consumers still gravitates towards classic, enduring hues rather than transient fads. The brand specifically targets individuals who favor neutral and understated aesthetics in their homes. 'The Polite Palette' is intended to serve as a subtle backdrop for personal style, rather than a dominant statement. Rob Abrahams, co-founder and CEO of COAT Paints, emphasizes that the role of paint evolves with individuals' lives, moving from self-expression to becoming a foundation for established personal taste. These new shades are characterized by their pared-back, reserved nature, avoiding distraction and promoting a natural, minimalist feel within interiors. This approach aligns with a growing consumer desire for enduring elegance over temporary trends, a sentiment reflected in customer interactions. Abrahams highlights that COAT Paints’ palette development differs from conventional boardroom decisions. Instead, the brand relies on extensive customer feedback, gathered from thousands of monthly interactions, to understand what consumers genuinely seek. This data consistently reveals a preference for 'timeless' over 'trendy' colors, indicating a demand for muted, nuanced shades that transcend seasonal trends. This insight is central to 'The Polite Palette,' which aims to meet the demand for sophisticated, long-lasting color schemes. The article also underscores that neutrality does not equate to monotony. When executed thoughtfully, neutral palettes can exude sophistication and luxury that is difficult to replicate with bolder choices. Examples such as Mrs. Hinch's neutral Christmas living room illustrate how a well-considered neutral design can achieve an elegant and luxurious atmosphere. COAT Paints encourages consumers to embrace neutral aesthetics in various rooms, from bathrooms to bedrooms, asserting that personal preference for subtle colors should not be sacrificed for the sake of following trends. 'The Polite Palette' will be available in five finishes: Flat Matt, Eggshell, Soft Sheen, Exterior Eggshell, and Floor Paint. All shades are made to order to minimize waste and are delivered promptly the next day. Rob Abrahams concludes that customers are seeking colors that will remain relevant for many years, rather than those tied to an annual 'Colour of the Year' concept, reinforcing the brand's commitment to durability and timeless appeal in home decor. #COATPaints #PolitePalette #TimelessDesign #PaintTrends #NeutralInteriors #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #SustainablePaint #ColourPhilosophy

Cox & Cox has introduced its inaugural luxury wall paint collection, featuring 16 distinct shades. This new range is meticulously curated with earth pigments, ensuring a smooth application and comprehensive wall coverage. A notable characteristic of these paints is their minimal volatile organic compounds (VOC) content, rendering them virtually solvent and odor-free. This addresses a common concern among consumers about strong paint smells during and after application. The collection is offered in two finishes: a matt water-based emulsion, which is optimal for walls and ceilings, and a low-sheen eggshell, designed for wooden and metal surfaces. Dani Taylor, Director of Buying at Cox & Cox, highlighted that the company's decision to launch a paint line stemmed from frequent customer inquiries about the paints used in their photoshoots. The aim was to develop a concise yet thoughtful collection of colors that would complement each other seamlessly. The range includes popular shades such as the striking blues 'Hainsworth' and 'Nocturne,' the subdued 'Lansdown,' and the classic 'Deauville.' These colors are intended to inspire decorating ideas for various home projects. Beyond the aesthetic appeal, the design of the paint tins was also a key consideration. The team at Cox & Cox focused on creating tins that are easy to open and close, thereby minimizing spillages and ensuring the paint remains fresh between uses. Dani Taylor noted that conventional paint tins often present challenges with opening, cleanliness, and sealing, leading to mess and premature drying. The new tins feature a design that is both visually appealing and practical, ensuring ease of cleaning, a secure closure, and reduced risk of spillage or drying out. All colors in the collection are available in 2.5-liter tins. The Matt Emulsion is priced at £50, while the Eggshell finish is available for £69. For those wishing to test shades before committing to a larger quantity, 100ml sample pots can be purchased for £5 each. This launch signifies Cox & Cox's expansion into the paint market, offering consumers a curated selection of colors with an emphasis on quality, ease of use, and environmental considerations. #WallPaint #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #PaintCollection #LowVOCPaint #MattEmulsion #EggshellFinish #ColorPalette #DIYHome

This article features an interview with artist Kylie Daniel, who discusses her life as a creative, her artistic journey, and her unique approach to art. At 53, Daniel expresses contentment and reflects on a diverse creative past that includes radio announcing, festival MCing, feature writing, and co-owning a guitar teaching clinic, all while consistently painting. She has been actively developing her distinct artistic style for many years. Kylie Daniel draws her primary inspiration from the Australian outback, particularly its vast, unforested landscapes. She finds solace and a sense of simplicity in these regions, viewing them as opportunities to disconnect from modern technology. Her art is characterized as unconventional, moving beyond typical pretty landscapes to focus on the geological formations of the land itself. She aims to capture the earth's surface changes resulting from events like fire, drought, and flood. Daniel incorporates various finishes to emphasize the textures and sheens of the landscape, inviting viewers to engage with her work not just visually but also tactilely, experiencing the physical sensation of the Australian Outback. Her artwork has gained significant recognition through its feature on "The Block," an Australian reality television series focused on house renovations. Following a successful placement last year with contestants Steph & Gian, Daniel's art was again selected for the show this year, with three pieces chosen by Kristian & Mimi. She views this exposure as a validation of her hard work and dedication. Her art was strategically placed in prominent areas within the homes, such as the entry and a hallway, and received positive commentary from judges, including Neale Whittaker. Daniel attributes the ongoing success to the support from The Block, The Block Shop, Artist Lane, and the contestants. Being a Block Shop artist is profoundly meaningful to Daniel, offering validation for her unique artistic style and chosen color palette, which she believes resonates with the public. When asked about her favorite Block couple, she playfully names Kristian & Mimi but also acknowledges the authenticity of Haydn & Ricky. Among artists, she expresses admiration for Jackson Pollock, valuing artists who break traditional molds and pioneer distinctive styles. Daniel finds inspiration in the idea of creating something entirely new and recognizable as her own. Her creative process often takes place outdoors, where she feels most inspired by nature, surrounded by wildlife. While working, she enjoys listening to country rock music, finding that its themes of land and country life align with the imagery she aims to convey in her art. A typical day involves managing her online presence, including social media and website interactions, before heading to her studio. She often works on multiple pieces simultaneously, as her heavy-textured works require several drying applications. Daniel can spend entire days and nights immersed in her art, describing it as her dream job. For holidays, she consistently chooses the Outback, specifically mentioning places like Cobar, Broken Hill, and Dubbo, where the landscape takes center stage. If she were to shop at The Block Shop, her obsession with Manchester would lead her to purchase sheet sets and quilt covers. Her favorite house decorating trend is "Japandi" due to its earthy, warm aesthetic and ease of pairing with furnishings, a style she believes has lasting appeal. Finally, her most cherished artwork is an original piece by Grace Brown, a respected Indigenous artist. #KylieDaniel #ArtistSpotlight #AustralianOutbackArt #TheBlock #HomeDecor #JapandiStyle #ArtisticProcess #InteriorDesign #TexturedArt

COAT, a luxury paint brand, has introduced 19 new paint shades designed to harmonize with the UK's cool-toned, diffused natural light. This collection aims to simplify the decision-making process for homeowners looking for paint colors that offer both longevity and versatility, moving beyond fleeting trends to provide timeless tones that enhance various living spaces. The new range also reintroduces 11 bestselling shades, all centered around muted classic hues intended to work seamlessly with the unique lighting conditions prevalent in UK homes. Rob Abrahams, co-founder of COAT Paints, emphasizes the brand's philosophy of creating colors that remain appealing for years, rather than succumbing to temporary trends. The focus is on tones that elevate spaces and integrate well with natural light and existing UK architectural styles. This approach caters to a broad range of interior design preferences, from dopamine decor to maximalism, as the less saturated shades are formulated to perform effectively across different home aesthetics. Among the new offerings are deeper warm tones such as 'Arctic Roll' and 'Piglet,' alongside contrasting options like 'Brasserie Brown' and 'Rocky.' Each shade is meticulously developed to transcend current trends, providing an effortless yet sophisticated enhancement to any room. Abrahams explains that highly saturated colors can often feel overwhelming and their appeal can diminish quickly. Therefore, COAT champions earthy, muted shades that feel natural and grounded. These warm tones are subtly balanced with a hint of black, ensuring their harmonious interaction with the UK's blue-grey light. This careful formulation allows the colors to shift subtly throughout the day, providing a dynamic yet refined appearance. While bolder colors like Dulux's 'True Joy' are gaining traction in 2025, COAT's collection underscores the enduring popularity of subtle earth tones within contemporary interior design trends. The collection is anchored by three new color families: Plaster, Yellow, and Sand. These families feature intentionally desaturated hues, offering a soft alternative to what COAT refers to as 'traditionally overpowering colors.' For those seeking a tranquil and serene atmosphere rather than a bold statement, these made-to-order paints are available exclusively through the COAT website. Consistent with COAT's existing product lines, this new range is offered in various high-performance finishes, including Flat Matt and Claypaint, allowing customers to achieve their desired look and vision for their home interiors. #PaintColors #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #NaturalLight #COATPaints #MutedTones #TimelessDesign #UKHomes

Kelly Wearstler, a renowned designer recognized for her bold, colorful, yet breezy designs, has collaborated with Farrow & Ball to launch a new collection of eight paints, named the California Collection. This collaboration marks Farrow & Ball's first partnership with an outside designer in its 75-year history. The collection is inspired by the natural beauty and architecture of California, aiming to bring the Golden State's sunny energy into living spaces, particularly for those in colder climates. Wearstler's approach to selecting colors for this collection was deeply rooted in the California landscape. She aimed to evoke the natural beauty of the state, bringing the incredible hues found in the environment into the home. The colors are named and inspired by elements of her daily life in California: Citrona reflects the yellow of lemon trees; Palm is inspired by the palm trees in Los Angeles; Hazy, a blue-gray, draws from Malibu’s morning light; Faded Terracotta references Southern California rooftops or sun-drenched pots; Tar is dark like the freeways; and Salt mirrors the misty, salty air at the beach. Developing paint colors presented unique challenges compared to her previous collaborations on carpets, wallpapers, and fabrics. Wearstler noted the difficulty in narrowing down a vast array of colors into a cohesive collection. The process involved a trial-and-error approach to ensure the chosen hues felt refreshed and relaxed while working together harmoniously and standing effectively on their own. The partnership with Farrow & Ball felt natural due to their shared love for color and understanding of its impact on creating dynamic spaces. Wearstler has a long-standing practice of using paint to establish mood and feel in her interior design projects, having utilized Farrow & Ball paints throughout her career. When advising clients on incorporating color, Wearstler suggests starting with a beloved hue already present in their home, perhaps from a vintage chair or artwork, and building a color scheme around it. Another technique is to use a bolder color on wall trim or the ceiling to make a statement without overwhelming the room. She emphasizes the importance of experimenting and taking risks, as color can transform a space's feeling or mood through various elements like artwork, textiles, wall coverings, or objects, allowing for personal expression. A common mistake clients make is not considering natural light, which significantly impacts how a color appears. Additionally, she advises thinking about how a space interacts with bordering areas to ensure seamless transitions between colors. Wearstler highlights black and white as underrated tones that can add depth and drama to a space through neutrals. Her personal style is described as free-spirited, evolving, and inspired, adapting to each project's client and architecture. She considers herself akin to a vintage Mario Botta Quarta chair from the 1980s, embodying an old spirit with daring energy. Wearstler states she loves all colors equally and believes both form and function are essential in design. #KellyWearstler #FarrowAndBall #CaliforniaCollection #PaintDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ColorPalette #DesignCollaboration #CaliforniaInspired