I got the itch recently to revive my home décor. At the time, I wasn’t sure where this “itch” was coming from, but after some introspective analysis, I fully realized that I needed more COLOR in my world!

I attribute the origin of my home revival to my recent experience designing my store in Rice Village (Houston, TX). This experience allowed me to explore another side of myself. I felt a sense of empowerment during this process. I wanted my store to communicate happiness, glamour and optimism. I was determined to create a space that women could walk into and feel free from the hum drum of their everyday, stressful lives. Ultimately, I want them to feel inspired, confident and happy!

This discovery is what led me to the process of updating my own home.  I wanted to capture some of the same emotions I had while designing the Flagship store. I realized I had been spending so much time building my business and brand that I had neglected my house. For me, my home represents many things - security, individual expression, happiness, love and freedom.  I felt compelled to capture the true essence of my family.

So it began…Tan, camel, brown, ecru- BE GONE! It’s time for a new day at the Turner home! (Ok, well it could be a tiny bit of a mid life crisis- but I am sticking with “I was inspired”- it sounds better) As the process began, I found myself saying to my designer friend, Ashley Goforth* “I want more color in my life. I don’t want to play it safe anymore. I want to feel alive, happy and fearless!”

Without painting the walls neon orange, we were able to do small things, to add so much life and energy in the room. Below you can see my before and after photos, proving that some new pillows and a colorful piece of art can completely change the look and feel of any living room. Even small changes, like replacing a lamp shade with one that is bright or detailed, or a beautiful floral arrangement, will change an atmosphere.

So the days of fuchsia sofas, peacock blue, bold, modern art have begun at the Turner house.. And I have to say… when we walk into my new living room, I feel a little bit lighter, happier and free. After all, life isn’t “beige”.

What inspires you? Grab a hold of it, and let that recolor your life.

*Many thanks to my friend Ashley Goforth for her advice, who is not only open minded but also very patient. Ashley was the former apprentice to Renea Abbot, founder of Shappy Slips.