Since I’m pretty partial to light color palettes, I’m loving the fact that design trends are turning towards the softer side of the color spectrum these days. You’ll probably notice a lot of new (or redecorated) homes sporting pale, pale design schemes – soft whites, dove grays, sophisticated ivories, and so on. I especially love using these colors for upholstery, as there’s something really elegant about a seating arrangement in a delicate shade.

A lot of clients say to me: Oh, but that’s going to be so impractical! What about my kids/pets/husband with his muddy boots??

So here’s my big secret: outdoor fabrics.

There are so many of these fabulous new fabrics on the market that have special stain and water-resist qualities. They’re practical, durable, easy to clean, and they look great – like the uber-stylish cushions in this poolhouse, made from Sunbrella fabric.

(Source: Elle Decor)

The good thing is, I can indulge my love for light colors without worrying about the fabrics getting soiled right away. That’s such a blessing when you’re trying to create a really pretty indoor-to-outdoor look. One of my current favorites is the Palm Springs house featured in a recent Veranda, with these fabulous pinky-lavender couches in the porch – a real style statement, and practical too!

(Source: Veranda July-August 2011)

The wonderful thing about the new generation of stain and water-resist fabrics is that they look so good! Forget the canvas-type fabrics of the past – these new materials come in all kinds of finishes, including linen, jacquard, even chenille and velvet. You really can’t even tell they were designed for outdoor use. And so, why not bring them indoors? I’ve started using them in high-traffic areas like mudrooms, kitchens, breakfast rooms – they’re so perfect for banquettes and casual seating nooks.

(Source: House Beautiful)

The end result: beautiful soothing color schemes without the stress. What more could you ask for?