The Telegram (St. John's)

House to Home with Debbie Travis

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Dear Debbie;

In my college days I remember painting my boarding house bedroom all black. All I had was a mattress on the floor and a rickety desk and chair. I loved it. Years later with family in tow I am still thinking about those black walls. Am I regressing? No one else wants this. Kenneth

Dear Kenneth;

I think you are very brave. It is a fact that we are all more adventurou­s when we are young. This goes for decorating as well as other life events and activities we jumped into without thinking about what people would think, or if it was the smart thing to do. Black is bold and dramatic, theatrical and domineerin­g. But these can be wonderful qualities. It’s all about how you treat the room as a whole. Matte black walls will give your room visual depth, but it will also feel heavy if there is not enough natural or artificial light to offer respite. Pair it with white trim. Vividly coloured furniture and accessorie­s, such as a raspberry pink sofa, a luminous yellow/green painted table, or bright blue cushions balance the effect of the black walls. You don’t say which room, but consider the dining area for your first foray. Art work will stand out, gold frames and silver details introduce a luxurious aura. Or how about the den or family room? Your kids should love it, and it’s a perfect place to add whimsical, colourful furniture.

 ?? Email your questions to house2home@ debbietrav­is.com ?? Decorating expert and television personalit­y Debbie Travis appears in The Telegram’s My Home each weekend.
Email your questions to house2home@ debbietrav­is.com Decorating expert and television personalit­y Debbie Travis appears in The Telegram’s My Home each weekend.

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