Color, Pattern & Texture, Oh My

Colors, patterns and textures add depth and dimension to an interior space whether it’s a home, office or retail space.

Colors have a psychology all of their own and should be selected with great consideration for how the space will be used. For example, avoid using reds in a shared bedroom or office as red stirs emotions like anger and conflict. Greens are safe for bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms and offices as green induces senses of calmness and prosperity.

Patterns can be tricky for those that find it difficult to visualize a pattern or print in a space and/or have fear around a long term design commitment. It’s common to hesitate when choosing a pattern or print especially if it comes at a cost. Most of the time the budget is better spent in another area, however, decided on a minimal print or pattern may be a great solution.

Textures such as upholstery, pillows, blankets, area rugs, rustic flooring, window treatments and seagrass wallpaper add dimension to a space while creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. This is a great technique to use if a space is feeling cold and sterile. Adding a basket, plants and a candle to an otherwise stark room can add much needed visual and actual texture.

Take a look around your home and answer the questions to see where the potential lies to make your space feel warm and inviting;

  1. When I walk in the front door after a long day, do I feel like my home is hugging me?

  2. Does this room support or inspire me to focus on my health and personal goals?

  3. What do I love most about my favorite restaurant, hotel or friend’s house?

Q & A with Allison


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Hair TaDos & TaDon’ts

Hair Q & A with Stylist, Allison from Talking Headz Salon in Philadelphia

Here are answers to some hair curiosities that most people may have. Meet Allison, a stylist in the Philadelphia area with 17 years of experience making Pennsylvanians beautiful with her custom cutting, coloring and styling. Allison also teaches specialty cutting and coloring classes to newer stylists. Since childhood, Allison was a gifted artist with a photographic memory and natural instincts for color, balance and scale. This talent has allowed Allison to achieve complicated hair coloring techniques and create new visions for clients seeking complete makeovers. Allison has always had her own personal style and strives to bring out her clients’ individuality. From classic and professional to half shaved, full-on rainbow fun, Allison puts all she has into each client so they leave her chair happy and full of confidence.

O & A

COLOR:

Q: What would you recommend for having roots touched up between full color treatments for balayage and highlights?

A: Balayage allows you to go longer between color appointments because of the softer grow out. But, I suggest getting a toner refresh to keep your blonde looking bright and shiny. If you’re covering grey, I would suggest getting a root touch up every 4-6 weeks since grey can be very resistant.


TRENDS:

Q: What do you see for summer and fall trends?

A: We’re seeing a lot of color blocking reminiscent of the 90’s usually with vivid colors. We are still loving the “lived in” color that we get with balayage and highlights. Also shags, mullets and shaggy bobs are all back in style.


EXTREME COLOR CHANGE:

Q: How many steps and about how long would it take to go from a medium brown to Gwen Stefani blonde?

A: Going platinum from medium brown can be a process. Prepare to be at the salon anywhere from 3-6 hours and sometimes longer. We need to lighten every strand, then tone the hair sometimes twice. There will be more upkeep at home since you will need to baby your hair a little more and use purple shampoo to keep your blonde cool toned.


SKIN TONE AND HAIR COLOR:

Q: Does skin tone effect what colors you use for highlighting someone’s hair?

A: Yes, warmer skin tones look better with a warmer toned blonde, cooler and neutral toned skin looks great in the silvery ice blondes that everyone loves lately.


SUMMER HAIR:

Q: Any advice for summer hair care?

A: Yes! The sun, pool water and ocean water can be rough on your hair. I suggest using a leave in conditioner or UV spray before heading to the pool or beach.

Thank you, Allison. Talk to you again soon for skin care and make-up tips in March!

To book an appointment with Allison at Talking Headz Salon 4422 Baltimore Ave. Philadelphia, PA call 215-729-2028 and follow Allison on Instagram @allisonheadz to see her before and after shots.

Enjoy Allison’s hair art below…