room, a minimalist motif or a relaxed atmosphere, virtually every home has a unique design scheme that sets the overall decorating tone. That’s the finding of a recent survey that revealed 67 percent of homeowners considered their home’s decor to be “casual.” Another 17 percent preferred the contemporary look, while nine percent thought their decorating style to be luxuriousor opulent. “People are looking to decorate with pieces that fit their lifestyle and personal tastes,” explains T.J. Maxx Home Fashions Spokesperson Laura McDowell. T.J. Maxx commissioned the survey. “But whatever yourstyle, it’s really the details that count. Accent pieces, careful use of color, the right throw rug or pillow—theseare the little things that make a room truly special.” McDowell offers these tips for room design: Casual Comfort—Simple yet inviting, the casual look utilizes neutral colors to obtain a soft, muted decor. Edges are softer and more rounded in furniture and accent pieces. Warm colors and earth tones prevail. Focal points of the room may include a tex- tured floor rug, a sophisticated (yet easy on the eye) piece of art- work and light-colored wood accent pieces in maple and birch. Oversized pillows and throwspro- vide a “sit down and stay awhile” ambiance. Contemporary Appeal—Simple shapes and geometric patterns prevail. Strong colors dominate the palette. Stainless steel is the Small details can make a big dif- ference in the look of a room. accent of choice, and surfaces are polished in finishes such as lac- quer. Lamps are geometric; simple and sleek. Vases and glassware scream color and shapes are everywhere—circles, swirls of color, triangles and squares. Luxurious/Opulent—Thestyle features gold accents adorning rich burgundy, midnight blue, emerald green and onyx accent pieces. Animal prints can provide dramatic flair; or select an elegant tapestry print for fabrics. Artwork is a focal point featured in large-scale gold or deep mahogany frames. Chenille throws, velvet and satin pillows, and extravagantly patterned area rugs all add to the overall opulence theme. “New home fashions arrive weekly in all our stores, so fresh items can always be found at great prices,” explains McDowell. The chain sells brand-name, designer merchandise and acces- sories at prices up to 60 percent less than department and specialty store regular prices. For more information, call 1-800-2TJMAXX orvisit t}ymaxx.com.
