From I.O. METRO to Design Star

(Vote her your FAN FAVE)


The bubbly + talented Kellie Clements, who is currently competing on HGTV design star (and WON the last challenge), is part of the I.O. METRO family! Long before she was a star, Kellie was our Designer at the I.O. METRO in Edmond, Oklahoma.




Kellie's trademark is her eclectic + artful use of color. We asked her to come back to her roots and give us a little Design Advice...


{Photo via HGTV}

Hello Metro: How do you successfully incorporate Bright Colors into a space?

Kellie Clements: I love this topic because color is such a vital part of how to personalize a space. Most people love the way a room with color makes them feel, but are scared to death of committing to it in their own homes. There are lots of ways to introduce color that won't bust your budget and also don't require you painting all your walls bright orange.


HM: What is the best way to get the most bang for your buck?

KC: The use of paint is probably the least expensive way to add color, if your taste fluctuates often. However (I am going to contradict my self a bit but hang with me), in my opinion simply painting the walls a bold color is also the easy way out and LEAST personal way to get out of the sea of Beige most people are drowning in.

HM: So how do you move past the walls and truly personalize a space with color?

KC: If you are scared of color but long to have those bright moments in your home.... this is how you start.... Find what I call a "Permission Piece" AKA... Inspiration Piece. Your "permission piece" gives you the opportunity to use a combination of colors that may normally not be used together.

In the example below, I started with the I.O. METRO artwork (Wash Canvas Art), which gives me permission to use punches of Turquoise and Rust as well as soothing Gray tones.

If you want to take a stab at achieving this look, I have given you a great neutral wall color (BM: Dove Grey) to use as the foundation for layering these colors in your space. Investing in a great piece of artwork IS A MUST! Do yourself a favor and stay away from the tiny insignificant artwork that you may be tempted to purchase just because it's on sale. If you don't LOVE it...walk away!



HM: This I.O. Metro inspired Mood Board is beautiful. What was the rhyme and reason behind this specific product mix?


KC: It's best to repeat your accent color at least three times in the room, but be sure not to over use it. Too much of the same color can start to look like and ACCIDENT rather than an ACCENT! As you can see, I have three examples of how to use both Rust and Turquoise through the use of pillows, colorful accessories and window panels. If you look closely, you can even see a hint of turquoise in the reclaimed end table. This is SO important! These subtle details can make a room feel complete and well put together. Accessories are a great way to dive in to using this technique and when your confidence with color builds, you can move to larger pieces. You can take a few home and play a bit before you commit to the final look.


HM: Any last words of wisdom?


KC: The process of creating YOUR perfect look shouldn't be rushed. Be sure to take the time to play with different patterns and textures and only buy things that you LOVE.


---Visit HGTV's page to see Kellie's Portfolio... you'll spot some I.O. items! And check out her page Modern Whimsy Interiors---

No comments:

Post a Comment