Color Talk - Colorfully Inspired

Cookies are Powerful Treats

2012-01-30T10:32:00.000-08:00

Yes! It's Girl Scout Cookie Time

By Denise Turner, ASID, CID, CMG
Color Turners

At a time when everyone’s making every dollar count, I’ll be the first to admit that it can be difficult to cough up $4.00 for a very small box of cookies. Even if those Thin Mints are perhaps the best thing that will ever cross your lips. But before you say no, to those adorable, pint-sized cookie peddlers, think again. The sales of Girl Scout Cookie help girls develop a strong sense of self-confidence, team building, goal setting, money management and much more. You see, cookies are powerful treats.

Now seriously! Can you think of anything that will give you this kind of return on your investment, for less than five bucks? So buy one, buy two, buy many because you’re investing in our future leaders.

You never know, one of those little girls might be our future US president or the scientist who discovers the cure for cancer or the leader who initiates world peace. While on a completely different scale, one of those little girls might go on to receive her Girl Scout Gold Award (highest award) and grow up to be an international colorist, Certified Interior Designer, speaker and author.

To learn “How The Girl Scouts Built Their Cookie Empire”, read this by the Business Insider. http://www.businessinsider.com/how-the-girl-scouts-built-their-cookie-empire-2011-3?op=1#ixzz1kxtyg1OR Images by the Business Insider.

"Girl Scouting builds girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place."

Color Turners-Turns The Art Of Color Into Profit
We help businesses and manufacturers make the best decisions where color choices are critical. We provide accurate and tangible ways to significantly reduce your business and manufacturing risks and turn that knowledge into increased sales and customer satisfaction.
http://www.colorturners.com/

denise@colorturners.com

Got Small House?

2012-01-12T07:05:00.000-08:00

Big Isn’t Always Better

In recent years, the answer was to call a contractor to make it bigger. However today’s soft housing market and high-dollar home equity loans have tempered consumer spending. In fact, smaller homes are in high demand because they are less expensive to purchase, maintain, heat and air condition. Here's how to maximize your home’s space without increasing its square footage.

If your refrigerator backs up to the garage or closet, many times it can be recessed so that there is more kitchen space.
Multifunctional furniture is critical. Storage ottomans serve as coffee tables and a place to conceal items when unexpected guest arrive.
Tankless water heaters save space and money.
Table and floor lamps add clutter. Recessed can lights free up valuable floor space.

Small homes encourage family interaction and are usually friendlier than larger homes; not to mention quicker to clean.

Color Turners-Turns The Art Of Color Into Profit
We help businesses and manufacturers make the best decisions where color choices are critical. By providing accurate and tangible ways to significantly reduce your business and manufacturing risks and turn that knowledge into increased sales and customer satisfaction. http://www.colorturners.com/
denise@colorturners.com

How to Avoid Being “That House” In Your Neighborhood

2011-12-07T08:18:00.000-08:00

Outside Christmas Decorating Tips

By Denise Turner, ASID, CID, CMG
Color Turners

Carolers are singing, shoppers are busily shopping and the Clark Griswold, want-to-be decorators are digging through their dusty attics. Yes! It’s Christmas again. This one is for the overzealous guy or gal who takes the Christmas a bit too far. Every neighborhood has one; a Clark Griswold like in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.

Even though we all politely nod and chuckle at their over the top Christmas spirit; we equally think of the excess. I wouldn’t want to be there to see the look on their face, in January when they open their utility bills. Possibly these individuals didn’t get the trend memo that everyone’s using their resources wisely. Now don’t get me wrong. I enjoy “tasteful” and I repeat “tasteful” Christmas decorations as much as anyone.

So, if you’re my neighbor who lives around the corner and three houses up, or an aspiring Clark Griswold, here are some tips to avoid being “that house” for Christmas.

Safety First

Does your roofline make Santa quiver in his boots? Then hire professionals to do the job. Decorating with lights typically requires the use of a ladder and used improperly can lead to injuries. Approximately 2,500 people in the US are injured each year hanging Christmas lights. While we all agree that Christmas lights are beautiful, let’s not forget electricity can cause problems if not used properly. Christmas lights can get hot enough to burn or ignite other decorations. Cords can fray, causing a short.

Get A Plan
Preparation will save you time and reduce unnecessary trips to the hardware store. Measure and count garland, lights, hooks and ect.

Less Is More
Don’t over do it. This means don’t make your lawn levitate with multiple inflatables. Sure little kids love them. But seriously, a giant snow globe, a Ferris wheel, Mr. and Mrs. Santa Clause, Rudolph and a partridge in a pear tree.

Retro Metal Christmas Trees
The aluminum, 1960’s retro Christmas trees are popular again, but some words of caution. Never hang lights on them! The tree can short out the Christmas lights and cause a fire. The tree can also become charged with electricity and can shock someone. So if you don’t want to be the one responsible for electrocuting Santa Clause, be safe.

Please! No Music!!! Under no conditions is it appropriate to blare Christmas music from speakers out into the neighborhood. This especially means those songs by barking dogs or meowing cats.

Light Placement
Don’t just toss the lights around to shrubs and trees. Seriously! It’s not creative and it’s obvious that you were too lazy to drag the ladder out of the garage. Also use some discretion in deciding how many lights and what colors to hang.

Entry Door
A clear path to your front door is important and it should be obvious. Honestly your guests don’t want to wander over the candy cane bridge and through the Elf’s village in order to get to Grandmother’s house.

If you’ve not seen the 1989, Christmas Vacation, do so. It’s a "Top 10 Favorite Christmas Films" and my personal favorites.

Color Turners-Turns The Art Of Color Into Profit
We help businesses and manufacturers make the best decisions where color choices are critical. By providing accurate and tangible ways to significantly reduce your business and manufacturing risks and turn that knowledge into increased sales and customer satisfaction. http://www.colorturners.com/

denise@colorturners.com

Boxers or Briefs?

2011-12-01T18:29:00.000-08:00

Men Show Your True Colors
Denise Turner, ASID, CID, CMG
Color Turners

As an international color and design trend forecaster, it’s always fun to find color hidden in unexpected places. I’ve often thought that my male European counterparts looked so sophisticated in their black and gray attire and that although it might be fine for them, I would never be able to live in those shadow colors. Well…they can’t either and their secret is out!

Believing that there are no mistakes and that everything happens for a reason I managed to end up in the men’s underwear section in Sokos, a must-see department store in Helsinki. Now this isn’t such a far stretch, sense I shop for the men in my life and research men’s neckties for color trends.

Much to my surprise, the classic colorless, boring boxers and briefs that fill my laundry basket at home were nowhere to be found. Instead, the shelves were full of fun, colorful whimsical underwear. Oh sure, I’ve seen brightly colored underwear for the guys before, but they were the cartoon superheroe chonies when my son was three-years-old (sorry Austin). These designs look more like swim trunks, than men’s intimate attire. Women have always dominated the flashy lingerie market. Welcome men.

Here are a couple examples:
http://www.bjornborg.com/
http://www.diesel.com/freshandbright/

So the next time you see a European man dressed in tints and shades of gray, don’t feel sorry for him. Just smile, because you know his colorful little secret.

Color Turners-Turns The Art Of Color Into Profit
We help businesses and manufacturers make the best decisions where color choices are critical. By providing accurate and tangible ways to significantly reduce your business and manufacturing risks and turn that knowledge into increased sales and customer satisfaction.
http://www.colorturners.com/

denise@colorturners.com

Has Lighting Switched-Off Your Money?

2011-12-01T00:52:00.000-08:00

Designing with Color & Light

By, Denise Turner, ASID, CID, CMG

Color Turners

Prior to my keynote presentation, this week in Helsinki at LOHAS Pack, I had the pleasure of meeting leaders, in the food manufacturing and packaging industry. In reviewing their packaging, the majority of them had a common challenge…color and light.

While their product’s designs were perfectly fine, the lighting in the grocery stores where their products were on display was not. This article meant to help businesses wrestling with the same challenges.

Have you ever designed a package, applied cosmetic or dressed yourself under one lighting condition and everything looked perfectly fine? But when you looked at the same colors in a different lighting environment they looked horrible? Most likely you experienced a color and light phenomenon, called Metamerism. This happens when two colors appear to match one light source but not in another. This is due to applying different light energies to two colors with different components or pigments.

Light Sources

When selecting colors it’s imperative that you consider the light source, in which the design will ultimately be displayed in. Natural daylight (morning, noon, sunset and the time of year) fluorescent, incandescent and LED affect colors differently. Be sure to view your package designs in their intended position, because colors look vertically and horizontally.

Lighting Conditions
Fluorescent Lighting have rapidly replaced incandescent, saving consumers a bundle on their utility bills. But they’re not all are created equal. The lighting industry has been making great strides in improving the quality of fluorescent lighting, however there’s still work to be done.

LED
LED (Light Emitting Diodes) are lighting the way of the future. Everyone’s on the cut cost-cutting and saving the planet band wagon. It’s important to use our resources wisely. It’s equally important that quality lighting isn’t sacrificed in the process, because poor quality lighting will adversely impact your sales.

CRI

Light quality is measured by CRI (Color Rendering Index).The higher the CRI number for a lamp, the more it renders a “true” color in an environment. The CRI measurement for outdoors is 100. If quality lighting with a higher CRI than CFL is your priority, LED are for you. LEDs have a longer life span than and fluorescents and emit more light per watt. But here’s the catch. To replace your standard light bulb, with an LED will put a dent in your pocket book (about $69.00 USD each). On the up side, you won’t have to replace it for years.

Color Turners-Turns The Art Of Color Into Profit

We help businesses and manufacturers make the best decisions where color choices are critical. By providing accurate and tangible ways to significantly reduce your business and manufacturing risks and turn that knowledge into increased sales and customer satisfaction. http://www.colorturners.com/

denise@colorturners.com

Martha Madrigal-Awesome Personal Trainer!

2011-11-11T10:32:00.000-08:00

Martha Madrigal Transforms Bodies & Lives
Martha is a phenomenal Certified Personal Trainer and highly respected leader, in the health and fitness industry. Martha (right) has more than 9 year’s professional experience as a Certified Personal Trainer. She takes her client’s health and wellness personally and works alongside them to help them achieve their fitness goals.

As an international colorist, speaker and author, who works in an extremely competitive industry, it’s critical that I look my best. Thanks to Martha’s efficient and customized personal training I’ve lost inches, increased strength and my body fat is now replaced with lean muscle.

If you’re serious about your health and ready to kick it up to the next level, contact Martha Madrigula. She’s the only Certified Personal Trainer, I trust with my body. I http://www.getfitwithmartha.com/

Color Turners-Turns The Art Of Color Into Profit

We help businesses and manufacturers make the best decisions where color choices are critical. By providing accurate and tangible ways to significantly reduce your business and manufacturing risks and turn that knowledge into increased sales and customer satisfaction.
http://www.colorturners.com

Denise Turner-Keynote, LOHAS Pack, Finland, 11.30. 2011

2011-11-08T20:42:00.000-08:00

When: November 30th 2011
Where: Design Factory, Aalto University, Finland
Time: 9:00–15:00
http://www.ptr.fi/lohaspack/

Colors Unveiled
The Truth Behind Color
& How It Drives Sales
COLOR is the primary reason for purchase more than 85% of the time. This seminar focuses on the LOHAS consumers, with an emphasis on packaging.Colors Unveiled is a fusion of Color Physiology, Color Psychology, Cultural Color and marketing. You’ll gain a greater understanding of what is going on inside someone’s mind, (including your own) just by studying their color choices. Additionally you will see the 2012 European color trends and learn what’s driving them.

YOU WILL:
• Gain insight into the LOHAS phenomenon and how it’s changing color and design trends.
• Through a sensory experience, feel the difference of color’s light waves in your electromagnetic field and use it to your business’ advantage.
• See how colors affect your emotions, behavior, energy level and health.
• Gain knowledge on the financial impact of cultural colors and which ones are taboos.
• Learn how CMG (Color Marketing Group) Color Forecasters track colors and trends; see how they turn their knowledge into sellable goods.

Denise Turner, ASID, CID, CMG is an award winning international colorist, Certified Interior, color & design trend forecaster, speaker, author and president of the Color Turners.

Color Turners-Turns The Art Of Color Into Profit

http://www.colorturners.com

denise@colorturners.com

Do You Love To Design?

2011-11-06T16:55:00.000-08:00

Then join us for the first annual “I LOVE TO DESIGN” 2-Day, action-packed interior design symposium, that’s dedicated to You, the professional, the student or the aspiring designer.

You’ll learn cutting-edge tips and techniques taught by expert leaders in the field of interior design. Plus you’ll be participating in a community project, because all of the proceeds are being donated to purchase of art supplies for children at the Maryvale Orphanage in Los Angeles, CA

Who Should Attend?

Students who want to jump start their chosen career. Classes will be taught by volunteer professionals, who are leaders in the field of interior design. Designers and students will have the opportunity to network with other industry partners to expand their social networking.

When: January 20 & 21, 2012

Where: Los Angeles

Topics

Color Trends
Window Treatments
Space Planning
Feng Shui Color
Furniture Selection
Flower Arrangement
Landscape Design
Marketing for Interior Design

For more information & class schedule contact: Info@galaxy-design.com
RSVP: 213-624-2120

Color Turners-Turns The Art Of Color Into Profit
We help businesses and manufacturers make the best decisions where color choices are critical. By providing accurate and tangible ways to significantly reduce your business and manufacturing risks and turn that knowledge into increased sales and customer satisfaction. http://www.colorturners.com/
denise@colorturners.com

Donna Marie Mushinskie’s First Blog

2011-10-30T15:38:00.000-07:00

Allow me to introduce you to my friend Donna Marie Mushinskie, a phenomenal interior designer and a new blogger.

Donna Marie DeGravina Mushinskie is a Certified Interior Designer, ASID Allied Member, NKBA member and the principal and founder of D M Designs. D M Designs is a full service interior design studio focusing on client satisfaction. This is accomplished through open communication between D M Designs and the client to assess the client's needs and wants, then taking the process to the next step to design a space that is pleasing to the client and reflects their personality.

Donna Marie Mushinskie, CID

D M Designs

donna@dmdesignsinteriors.com
http://www.dmdesignsinteriors.com/
http://www.blogger.com/goog_421976428
http://dmdesignsinteriors.blogspot.com/

Color Turners-Turns The Art Of Color Into Profit
We help businesses and manufacturers make the best decisions where color choices are critical. By providing accurate and tangible ways to significantly reduce your business and manufacturing risks and turn that knowledge into increased sales and customer satisfaction. http://www.colorturners.com/
denise@colorturners.com

Color & Nutrition

2011-10-30T10:16:00.000-07:00

Mother Was Right

Denise Turner, ASID, CID, CMG

Color Turners

We’re all aware of the importance of color for interior design, fashion and its sheer beauty. But did you know the colors of the food we eat can have a powerful effect on our physical and emotional state?

“Homegrown” is the new trend. Farmer’s markets are springing up in every community. Lawns are being torn out (even at the White House) to be replaced by vegetable gardens. If you’ve considered planting a vegetable garden, this is your time and here’s why. The natural colors of purple egg plant, red strawberry, yellow squash and the dark leafy greens, deliver goodness, healing and vitalizing energy.

When selecting produce, we’re drawn to the brightest colored fruits and vegetables. We intuitively know these are the best. This comes to no surprise. Scientists have proven that brightest foods have the highest nutritional value. By eating the appropriate colored foods, it can rejuvenate and balance the system, making you feel brighter and more alive. For this reason, Registered Dietitians suggest we consume a rainbow diet.

RED FOODS: support the body by increasing levels of vitality, with foods that are rich in minerals and a good source of protein. Possible signs if someone has red deficiencies: lack of stamina, anemic, weak and light-headedness.

EAT RED:
Vegetables: beat, red cabbage, radishes, red chili peppers, red bell peppers, tomatoes, red onions
Fruit: cherries, strawberries, raspberries, watermelon,
Other Foods: nuts, meat, fish

A diet rich in lycopene, found in large quantities in cooked tomatoes, reduces a man’s risk of developing prostate cancer by 45%.

ORANGE FOODS: support the body by containing antioxidants, which protects us against serious diseases. It supports the reproductive system, encourages creativity and keeps us alert. Orange has excellent detoxifying properties. Possible signs if someone has orange deficiencies: stiffness in joints and problems in the reproductive organs.

EAT ORANGE:
Vegetables: Carrot, pumpkin, pepper, rutabaga, potato, butternut squash

Fruit: orange, apricots, peaches, persimmon, kumquats, mango

Other Foods: oats, brown rice, shellfish, egg yolk

YELLOW FOODS: support the body, by taking on the warm vibration of the sun. Most people working long hours indoors, with minimal sun exposure tend to deplete their yellow energy. Possible signs if someone has yellow deficiencies: exhaustion, restlessness, tension, poor nutrient absorption, digestive problems, lowered immunity, depression, hot flashes, inability to make decisions and poor memory.

EAT YELLOW:
Vegetables: Yellow pepper, squash, grains, nuts, yellow lentils
Fruit: Grapefruit, bananas, lemon, pineapple, mellon
Other Foods: oil, fish, egg, butter, food rich in fatty acids

GREEN FOODS: support the body as detoxifiers. Green foods tend to be high in vitamins and minerals. Possible signs if someone has green deficiencies: Difficulty breathing, negative emotions and feeling of being trapped.

EAT GREEN:
Vegetables: Broccoli, cabbage, kale, sprouts, peas, green beans, leeks and dark leafy vegetables
Fruit: Pears, avocados, apples, green grapes, kiwi and limes
Other Foods: most culinary herbs

Green has beneficial effects on stomach acidity and blood pressure. If you are under great stress, you may need green- energy food.

BLUE & VIOLET FOODS: support the body with antioxidants; they support communication skills, glands and organs of the neck; blue & violet energy. Possible signs if someone has blue & violet deficiencies: inability to relax or sleep, respiratory problems, feeling confused

EAT BLUE-INDIGO:
Vegetables: Current, mushrooms,

Fruit: Black berries, bilberries, blueberries, cherries, prunes

Other Foods: Black olives, fish, yeast

EAT BLUE-VIOLET:
Vegetables: Oats, eggplant, shell fish, red cabbage, beats, purple onion
Fruit: Figs, dates, plums
Other Foods: kelp and all seaweed products

Eat your veggies!

Color Turners-Turns The Art Of Color Into Profit
We help businesses and manufacturers make the best decisions where color choices are critical. By providing accurate and tangible ways to significantly reduce your business and manufacturing risks and turn that knowledge into increased sales and customer satisfaction. http://www.colorturners.com/ denise@colorturners.com

LOHAS Consumers

2011-10-03T11:01:00.000-07:00

The Trend That’s Shifting Consumer’s Consciousness
By Denise Turner, ASID, CID, CMG
Color Turners

LOHAS is becoming one of the hottest new trends and is rapidly changing the way we do business. So what’s LOHAS and what’s it all about? LOHAS is the acronym for (Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability), a market segment focused on health and fitness, the environment, personal development, sustainable living, and social justice.

Who Are Their Consumers?
LOHAS describes an estimated $290 billion U.S. marketplace for goods and services focused on health, the environment, social justice, personal development and sustainable living. The 41 million American consumers (approximately 13-19% percent) attracted to this market represent a sizable group in this country, but their power as a consumer market virtually remains untapped. Additionally LOHAS is an international trend. http://www.lohas.com/

What’s driving the LOHAS Phenomenon?

Consumers are evaluating every aspect of their life, in doing so; they are making more mindful decisions and prioritizing spending behaviors. Today’s consumers are demanding a greater value from products and services. The driving force behind this is to make the most of out of everything. More than ever before, there is a desire to conserve our natural resources, be self-reliant and to buy American made. Farmer’s markets are springing up in every community. Lawns are being torn out, to be replaced with vegetable gardens. Choices as small as taking public transportation to work instead of driving, cooking dinner rather than going out and growing foods instead of buying from the store are some examples of trends that are catching on. Although these changes may appear small to us, collectively they are changing the way companies approach green business strategy.

How LOHAS Is Affecting Color & Design Trends?

As consumers, we want to be surprised and delighted again, but not by artificial hype. We are looking for a personal connection and authentic brand stories. More than ever before, we want to understand how products and food sources were created and their origin. We are gravitating towards nurturing colors, tactile materials and products that evoke a sense of authenticity. Colors that mimic organic produce and vegetable-died textiles are hot. We’re adding splashes of accent colors on less expensive home décor items such as paint and accessories. For long-term investment items such as furniture and cabinetry we’re opting for neutral colors, for their versatility and staying power.

Adam Barry
Allow me to introduce you to Adam Barry, a phenomenal young man whose philosophies are in alignment with the LOHAS. Adam became a student at San Antonio High School, two and a half years ago, where he immediately became active in the Food Justice & Gardening Program. Adam is passionate about Organic Agriculture and Sustainable Living. He believes that we have a lack of respect for plants and animals.

Adam’s Solutions to Our Food Problems:
• Create more farms; have fewer freeways.
• Grow your own food.
• Support locally grown farmers and buy in season- Note: The further the food ships the more chemicals are needed to preserve them.
• But if you want to make this calmer than a cucumber farmer, angrier than a honey bee whose hive was robbed, just ask Adam about (GMO) Genetically Modified Foods and how scientists are manipulating and mutating our foods, all in the name of money.

Adam graduates from San Antonio High School in two months. Then he will begin at Santa Rosa Community College, where he will earn his degree in Organic Agriculture and Sustainable Living. While attending college he’ll be working and living on the farm. Keep your eye on Adam, this 16-year old dynamo who’s changing the way we think about food and the way we produce it.

San Antonio High School Food Justice and Gardening Program
San Antonio High School, in Claremont, CA, is an alternative education high school. The city of Claremont is a considerably wealthy community, however, a significant portion of the students at San Antonio High School are racial/ethnic minorities, come from low socio-economic backgrounds and receive free or reduced school lunches. Many of the students enrolled in this high school have had contact with law enforcement and are thus considered at-risk youth. Additionally, numerous students have had trouble passing state standardized tests. As a result, the pairing of teachers, high school students and college interns in the food justice and gardening program has been incredibly pivotal for these students. Our work in the construction and maintenance of the schoolyard garden, the outdoor classroom, lectures and more are all designed to improve the health, work habits and self-worth among these students. http://www.dosomething.org/project/san-antonio-high-school-food-justice-and-gardening-program

Color Turners-Turns The Art Of Color Into Profit

denise@colorturners.com

Denise Turner-Speaking at WCS, Oct. 2011

2011-09-15T12:06:00.000-07:00

30^th Biennial Western Coatings Symposium

AS THE COLORS TURN
2012-2013 Color & Design Trends
Monday, October 24

10:25am - 10:55am

The Mirage Hotel, Las Vegas

COLOR is the primary reason for purchase more than 85% of the time. Colors turn every six months to a year; based on world events, such as wars, elections and even the economy? If you are business owner unaware of these turns, it can adversely affect your bottom line. This seminar will provide accurate, tangible insight on future color and design trends to help turn your paint chips into profit.

YOU WILL:
• Receive insight into consumer’s spending habits and how they affect manufacturing practices, sales and marketing.

• Review the fundamentals of Color Theory & Color Physiology and use them to gain insight into your customer’s color preference.

• Learn how Color Forecasters track colors and trends; see how they turn their knowledge into sellable goods.

• See examples of the 2012-2013 architectural color trends and learn what’s driving them.

COLORS UNVEILED
What Your Favorite Color Says About Hue
Tuesday, October 25
3:03pm - 3:35pm
The Mirage Hotel, Las Vegas

Everyone has a favorite color. They also have a color they dislike and will grimace at the mere thought of it. But do you know why? Colors Unveiled demystifies color’s hidden meanings and is a fusion of Color Psychology, Cultural Colors and Color Physiology. You’ll gain a greater understanding of what is going on inside someone’s mind, (including your own) just by studying their color preferences, saving valuable time.

YOU WILL:
• Through a sensory experience, feel the difference of color’s light waves in your electromagnetic field and use it to your business’ advantage.

• See how environmental colors affect your emotions, behavior, energy level and health.

• Gain insight into specific markets, and learn how to use colors that drive sales and which colors are taboos, causing adverse effects.

• Learn the best colors to use for individuals with autism, ADD/ADHD and ageing eye.

MORE COLOR PROGRAMS
Turn Your Paint Chips into Sales & Profit©

In-House Color Certification Program for Paint Professionals

This is an entinsive, 8-hour in-house color training program, designed to give your employees the competitive edge in today’s market. It is specifically customized for non-colorists who work in the Architectural Coatings industry. “Turn Tour Paint Chips into Sales & Profit” is ideal for new hires, Property Management, In-Store Members and Architectural Sales teams.

OBJECTIVE: To better familiarize your employee’s with your paint color system, to provide them a safe environment where they work outside their color comfort zone and learn color fundamentals.

GOAL: To enhance employee’s color knowledge base, provide them with an overall color foundation, hands-on practical experience. The final goal is to give them the confidence to successfully create color schemes from your companies’ paint color system. Having your teams color savvy, will help you obtain your final objective, to increase profitability.“Turn Your Paint Chips into Sales & Profit” program was created and is presented by Denise Turner.

For more information on this comprehensive color program, contact Denise Turner denise@colorturners.com

We help businesses and manufacturers make the best decisions where color choices are critical. By providing accurate and tangible ways to significantly reduce your business and manufacturing risks and turn that knowledge into increased sales and customer satisfaction. http://www.colorturners.com/ denise@colorturners.com

Color Turners-Turns The Art Of Color Into Profit

Comex Group Book Launch

2011-09-10T15:36:00.000-07:00

2012 Inspiring Cultures

By Denise Turner, ASID, CID, CMG
Color Turners

Two days ago Comex Group launched their newest Inspiring Cultures Trend Book for 2011/12, in heart of Las Angeles’ Interior Design District. I was there to support my Comex Group clients and friends and to network with fellow professional interior designers.

This is Comex’s forth issue in their series of Essential Guides Inspiring Cultures. It was based on trends and nuances for the USA, Canadian, Central and South American. The Mix team worked with Comex on the creation of this trend book, helping with trend research, hosting an interactive design and architecture meeting and designing the book and its color tools. Comex partnered with Arkitip on their most recent issue edition. The artists used Comex’s paint and the theme of color to create whatever they desired. Each guest received a large, hard bound color book, bag of inspirations and color tools.

That’s me on the left with my dear friend Joe Esquer, National Technical Support Manager at Frazee Paint / Comex Group and interior designer Alycia D. Enciso.

From left-Todd Guarnieri, National Vice President Architectural Sales, Comex Group and Josh Kern, Executive Vice President Commercial Sales, Comex Group.

Color Turners Turns The Art Of Color Into Profit

denise@colorturners.com

Any Color But Beige

2011-08-25T21:12:00.000-07:00

“Color can change your life! Just ask Cat Larose, international color-marketing expert and author of “Any Color but Beige.” This brilliantly written, yet hilarious book takes you through her tints, shades and sometimes off-color dating experiences in search for love, in the perfect hue. A must read for single women.”

Denise Turner, ASID, CID, CMG

Color Turners

http://www.colorturners.com/

Get your copy of “Any Color but Beige” on Amazon

Catherine Larose, CMG-is the author of the Cafe Girl Chronicles blog: www.cafegirlchronicles.wordpress.com. When she isn't traveling the world for her job as a color marketer, Cat enjoys life in Montreal, Canada. Any Color but Beige is her first book, and she is busy working on a second. mailto:www.cafegirlchronicles@wordpress.com

As The Colors Turn- 2012 Color & Design Trend Forecast

2011-08-18T20:24:00.000-07:00

2nd Annual ProSource Color Trend Tour
By Denise Turner, ASID, CID, CMG
Color Turners

“FREE” CEU & Lunch

COLOR is the primary reason for purchase more than 60% of the time. “As The Colors Turn” will provide you with accurate, tangible insight on future color and design trends and help turn your memos into money. This seminar is for fashion-forward interior designers, who want be ahead of the curve and improve their bottom line.

YOU WILL:

Learn how to use cutting-edge, color branding techniques to improve your visibility and increases your sales.
Receive groundbreaking insight on future trends and sales and marketing practices to make your company more financially successful.
Review the fundamentals of Color Psychology; see how it affects consumer’s spending behavior and use it to your benefit.
Learn how Color Forecasters track colors and trends; see how they turn their knowledge into sellable goods.
See examples of upcoming trends so that you don’t spend valuable time, creating designs or products out of discontinued colors.

ProSource of North Orange County
2342 East Valencia Dr.
Fullerton, CA 91831
714.773.9331
DATE: September 7th
TIME: Lunch 12:30-1:00 PM, Seminar 1:00-2:00 PM

ProSource of North Hollywood
12625 Sherman Way
North Hollywood CA 91605
818.764.3944
DATE: September 8th
TIME: Lunch 12:30-1:00 PM, Seminar 1:00-2:00 PM

ProSource of Las Vegas
7350 Dean Martin Dr # 303
Las Vegas, NV 89139-5947
702. 798. 9802
DATE: September 13th
TIME: Lunch 12:30-1:00 PM, Seminar 1:00-2:00 PM

PLEASE RSVP: info@prosourcecalifornia.com

Denise Turner, ASID, CID, CMG is an award winning international colorist, Certified Interior, color and design trend forecaster, speaker, author and president of the Color Turners.

COLOR TURNERS turns the art of color into profit

As a high-energy, result-oriented speaker, Denise is passionate about inspiring her audience, so that they quickly grasp the importance of color and how it affects their businesses’ bottom line. As a media spokesperson and seminar leader, Turner speaks on behalf of: ASID National, CMG Expert Speaker’s Bureau and is the Contributing Color & Design Trend Editor for idS Magazine, Malaysia.

For further details follow Denise:
http://colorturners.blogspot.com/
http://www.colorturners.com/
denise@colorturners.com

Fashion & Architecture

2011-07-30T21:15:00.000-07:00

Retro Color & Design Trends

By, Denise Turner, ASID, CID, CMG

Color Turners

Historically trends in clothing fashion, architecture, home décor, transpiration and even music occur simultaneously. Wars, elections and the economy affect colors and trends.

For example, roughly between two world wars (1920-1939) we were seeking stream-lined elegance; we were enthralled with transportation and movement. From this the Art Deco period emerged. Designs and motifs of this era mimicked, stream lined ships and planes. This period affected architecture, furniture, sculpture, clothing, jewelry, graphic design and the entire fine and applied arts.

The post war of the 1950s propelled conformist ideals, for a better life in suburbia. We were content living in our little cookie-cutter pink houses with white picket fences and having role model families like Ozzie and Harriet, and the Cleavers. There was a chicken in every pot and fresh baked cookies for dessert. Life was simple; everything finished on a positive note. History continues to repeat itself. Although the 1950s was much a façade, we still hold the nostalgic ideals of a happier time in our countries’ history. For this reason there is a huge retro 1950s. When trends repeat themselves, they come back with a new spin. Just look at the “new” movies, tv shows, clothing, cars, clothing, home décor and colors; they are retro-1950s and retro-1970s.

The nostalgia trend continues to gain in popularity. We are gravitating to optimistic, feel-good colors and familiar designs that lift our spirits. Colors that represent escapism, nostalgia and fantasy are crucial to our wellbeing. Gone are the days of the highly polished glitz and glam. We now prefer down-to-earth authentic colors and textures that mimic nature and our past.

By in large, we are adding splashes of accent colors on less expensive décor items such as paint and accessories. For long-term investment items such as furniture and cabinetry we are opting for neutral colors, which are versatile and have staying power.

http://cloverfield.wikia.com/wiki/ChryslerBuilding
http://artdecoblog.blogspot.com/2007/06/pictorial-review-patterns-1925.html
http://www.raftertales.com/home-design/home-architecture/ranch-style-home-architecture-and-design-features/
http://vintage-london-rose.blogspot.com/

COLOR TURNERS turns the art of color into profit
We help businesses and manufacturers make the best decisions where color choices are critical, by providing accurate and tangible ways to significantly reduce their business and manufacturing risks. http://www.colorturners.com denise@colorturners.com

Denise Turner’s August, 2011 Seminar Schedule

2011-07-19T15:37:00.000-07:00

NADFD 2011 Conference- Contract Fabric Network

Location: The Hotel Terra, Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Day: August 4, 2011

Time: 9:45 am

http://www.nadfd.com/conventions.html

AS THE COLORS TURN

2012 Color & Design Trend Forecast

COLOR is the primary reason for purchase more than 60% of the time. Colors turn every six months to a year; based on world events, such as wars, elections and even the economy? If you are business owner unaware of these turns, it can adversely affect your bottom line. This seminar will provide accurate, tangible insight on future color and design trends to help turn your memos into money.

YOU WILL:

• Receive insight into consumer’s spending habits and how they affect manufacturing practices, sales and marketing.

• Review the fundamentals of Color Theory & Color Physiology and use them to gain insight into your customer’s color preference.

• Learn how Color Forecasters track colors and trends; see how they turn their knowledge into sellable goods.

• See examples of the 2012 contract color trends and learn what’s driving them.

Denise Turner, ASID, CID, CMG is an award winning international colorist, Certified Interior, color and design trend forecaster, speaker, author and president of the Color Turners.

COLOR TURNERS turns the art of color into profit

As a high-energy, result-oriented speaker, Denise is passionate about inspiring her audience, so that they quickly grasp the importance of color and how it affects their businesses’ bottom line. As a media spokesperson and seminar leader, Turner speaks on behalf of ASID National, CMG Expert Speaker’s Bureau and is the Contributing Color & Design Trend Editor for idS Magazine, Malaysia.

Turner is a California Paint’s Color Challenge winner. Her redesign of an ADA-compliant master bath won the HGTV Designer’s Challenge. She is an ASID professional member, former ASID chapter president, Certified Interior Designer, CMG Chair Holder and UCLA graduate. http://www.colorturners.com/

Black Belt Business Tactics

2011-06-09T20:36:00.000-07:00

10 Tips To Recession Proof Your Businesses
By, Denise Turner, ASID, CID, CMG
Color Turners

The current economic situation has knocked the wind out of our businesses. More than ever before, we need to stay focused and keep our guards up. By staying positive and being supportive allies to our associates and friends, together we will slay this fire breathing dragon and win.

1. Qi (Chi) The energy of life
Negative thoughts and words physically weaken us; it’s imperative that we find healthy alternatives to stay positive.

Limit the amount of negativity in your environment, such as the media. Negative people are the worst “Chi Suckers.”
If you begin to complain, catch yourself and stop it.
Play uplifting music, display photograph that capture good feelings memories or put fresh flowers in your environment; they’ll lift your spirits.
Do yoga, meditate or take a walk; better yet, take your dog for a walk. He will love you for it.
Don’t have a dog? Get one! Dogs provide unconditional love. There’s nothing better than a slobbery, wet, dog kiss, first thing in the morning. Well!....there’s one thing better, first thing in the morning. But let’s not go there.
Feeling blue? Call or visit a friend to lift your spirits.

Feeling like Ms. or Mr. Sunshine? Call (not e-mail) a couple friends, who are having a difficult time. Limit your conversations to a few minutes and hold a positive tone. This works. My friends continuously say “Thank you for calling; you made my day”. A few minutes out of our day, to make someone’s day; how simple is that?

2. Self Defense
Be proactive; research every business in detail, before handing over any money. This includes companies you’ve been working with for years. The days of making a deposit for a product and assuming that the supplier will be in business on the delivery date, are gone. With companies having difficulty, it’s imperative you take additional precautions and cover our ASSets.

Do your research. Ask associates and suppliers about the company you are about to do business with.
Check with the government agencies to see if the company you are about to do business with has any claims against it.
If the company you made deposits with, goes belly up, immediately take legal action.
Turn on your sixth sense. If something doesn’t feel right, it most likely isn’t.

3. Snap Kick
Just because business is slow, does not mean you have to settle for bad clients. Bad client cause grief and prevent you from attracting good ones. As in taking precautions when doing business with suppliers, it’s imperative that you diligently research our potential clients.

Keep a close eye on the retainer; when it gets close to running out, inform the clients, so that you are always working with their money.
Don’t drag out your invoices; get payment in full
Keep in close communication with fellow contractors on the job. See if they are being paid in a timely manner. If they are not, this is a warning sign for you.

4. Chop
Eliminate as much overhead as possible, while still maintaining control of your business.

Outsource! Outsource! Outsource!
Hire interns. You will benefit from their low cost and energetic talent; they will benefit from your experience and on the job training. If they show star quality, you have talent to pull from when your finances improve. Contact your local college; many have programs in place, with students eager to work. This is a Win! Win!

5. Sensei (teacher)
Have you ever wanted to be a teacher? Community centers and colleges are continuously looking for part time instructors. Let’s not forget the vast body of knowledge you have acquired by working in this industry. By sharing your knowledge, you will reap the rewards. Who knows, you might enjoy teaching so much, that you change careers.

Teaching is an excellent way to stay in your industry, while keep your name out there and earning some money.

It’s a great way to meet potential clients.

6. Yin-Yang (positive + negative)

Everything in nature has a cycle. There is a time to plant and a time to harvest. This is the time to plant your seeds for the future. Use this slow time to your advantage and invest in yourself. Brush up on your skills so that you will be better equipped and more competitive when the economy rebounds.

This is the optimum time to take those classes, which you never had time for, when your business is running strong.
If you’ve considered studying for specialty certificates or license, this is the time.
Want to take a class from the comforts of your home? Take a webinar class.
Ever wanted to volunteer? But didn’t have time. This is your time. Contrary to what some people believe, the golf course is not the best place to network. Volunteer with Scouts, sports, schools or your take a leadership position with your association. You will improve your community and tap into new group of potential clients that you would have not been able to do before.

7. Side Kick
“Cross Promotion” is the name of the game. Is there a company that complements yours, that you can form marketing alliances?
Examples:

If you are a colorist, connect with your local paint store or painting contractor. Set up a small display in their store to do custom paint schemes.
If you are a drapery work room, team with an interior designer and split the booth rental fees at a builder show.

If you are an interior designer, team with a general contractor and offer your services to realtors and banks with foreclosure or quick sell properties. You can stage them, so that they sell faster.

8. Focus
What does your dream business look like? Think big! What would your projects look like? Who would be your clients? How much money would you make? Sit quietly and think about it. If you have employees, involve them too. There’s power in numbers. Then write down everything in what your dream business will look like in present tense and post your affirmations where you can read them several times a day.
Examples:

For projects, say “I have the perfect projects that allow me to express my creativity,…..and …..”
For clients, say “I have the perfect clients who values my……,…….and……..”
For money, say “My business is financially abundant, which allows me…….in my life”
Create a Vision Board and put everything you desire on it; don’t be concerned how it will happen. Clip out pictures of your family and images from magazines. Don’t be concerned of how your dream business is supposed to happen. Just play. You’ll be astonished to see, how your focus will begin to attract your dream business.

9. Cover Your Back

When was the last time you reviewed your contracts, insurance, finances or any other legal items? Are they still viable? This is the time to polish them up.

Meet with your attorney and other agents and ask them to support you find creative ways to fit your needs. You may be able to save you money.
Review your expenses; you may be spending unnecessarily on your telephone or utility bills.
Purge unnecessary files and clean your office. It will get the Qi flowing again and make you feel better.

10. Punch
Marketing! Marketing! Marketing! Regardless of what you may think, it is not difficult to attract “Free” marketing and advertising. Yes! Free!

Get to know the press; media relationships are the secret to “Free” advertising.
Write articles; trade magazines and chapter news letters are always searching for articles.
Speak before groups; it increases your visibility, reputation, and stature in your industry.
Update your website. Don’t have a website? Then build one. Contrary to what you may think websites don’t have to be expensive. You can purchase templates to build one.
Contact your local college and hire a graphic arts student to create a basic site. If budget allows, hire to them create a logo and stationary package.

COLOR TURNERS helps businesses and manufacturers make the best decisions where color choices are critical. We provide accurate and tangible ways to significantly reduce your business and manufacturing risks and turn your knowledge into increased sales and customer satisfaction. http://www.colorturners.com denise@colorturners.com

Color Hasn’t Always Been Just A Pretty Face

2011-05-28T15:14:00.000-07:00

Color Therapy Then & Now

Denise Turner, ASID, CID, CMG

Color Turners

Many of us take for granted that color has always been with us to adorn our homes and bodies, but that hasn’t always been the case. In ancient times, man had symbolism, mystery and magic in mind when using color. It wasn’t until the Renaissance period that color changed from sacred formulas that were deeply rooted in mysticism, to the artist’s individual expression of beauty. Artists such as, Sandro Botticellin and Leonardo Da Vinci became famous during this period and brought another dimension to the way we perceive color. http://www.paintingsite.net/history-renaissance.html

Sense the beginning of recorded time (and probably sooner) man understood color’s healing powers. Ancient Chinese, Egyptian, Indian, Greek and Roman physicians revered color. They diagnosed through it and prescribed organic and inorganic medicines and rituals. Though Egyptian medicine dates from about 2900 B.C., best known and most important pharmaceutical record is the "Papyrus Ebers" (1500 B.C.), a collection of 800 prescriptions, mentioning 700 drugs. The document revealed that ancient Egyptian physicians prescribed colored minerals, such as red and yellow ochre, malachite and red. http://dianabuja.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/papyrus_ebers.png

Hippocrates, the Father of Western Medicine was very much aware of color’s holistic powers. He incorporated Color Therapy into his practice. Hippocrates painted his treatment rooms in healing hues and like his predecessors, he used colored ointments and salves as remedies.

TECHNOLOGY-COLOR & LIGHT THERAPY
Light plays a vital role in our lives; without it all life ceases to exist. Light equally plays a vital role with color; without it all color ceases to exist. Many of the ancient principles of Color and Light Therapy are used today, in modern medicine. Color or Chroma Therapy is a form of Energy Medicine.

USED BY:

Pediatricians to treat neonatal, infants with jaundice. Babies are bathed in blue light, which helps bring them back to a healthy state.
Dermatologists to treat acne, rashes, psoriasis and other skin disorders.
Mental health specialists to treat individuals with SAD (Seasonal Affect Disorders), a form of depression. Therapy helps them restore and retain energy and fight winter blues. SAD is often associated with shortened daylight hours in winter months of northern latitudes.
Sleep specialist doctors treat insomnia sleep-related disorders.

Commercial airlines to help reduce jet lag in passengers, on long international flights.

Researchers have two primary beliefs why Color and Light Therapy is an effective treatment for SAD, depression, insomnia and jet lag patients. One-it triggers the brain's production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter related to mood disorders. Two-it relieves depression and jet lag by resetting the body's circadian rhythm, or inner biological clock.

Here’s an amazing product, that I’m proud to be a part of. I consulted with Mr.Steam to help design and market their Steamtherapy©. This Chroma, Aroma and Music Therapy, steam shower enhances your breathing exercises, leaving you with a sense of wellness. The scent and color evokes moods and heighten your emotions. http://mrsteam.com/steamtherapy/index.html

KBIS-2011 Kitchen Bath Industry Show

2011-05-15T22:23:00.000-07:00

Color & Design Trends, Inovative Marketing

By:

Denise Turner, ASID, CID, CMG

Dede Radford, CMG,

Allied Member ASID, Member IFDA, Member IDS

The largest and most all-inclusive kitchen and bath Industry show, known as KBIS was held at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, April 26-28, 2011. Exhibitors were there to show off their latest and greatest products to the swarms of designers, home builders, showrooms and media. http://www.wood-mode.com

It’s a fact KBIS was much smaller than in years past and no doubt, it will be a while before we get back to the heyday where our industry was 5-6 years ago. The big brands’ booths were drastically smaller, in most likely, all cases. Sadly, countless major national brands simply disappeared from the show floor this year. Although KBIS was cozier this year, everyone’s tone was positive.

COLOR
As expected, manufacturers continue to refrain from wildly spinning the color wheel. Grays and browns dominated the show’s color palette. Browns primarily dominated cabinetry; grays primarily appeared new introductions of tile and countertops. What small amounts of color we did find stood out in the sea of neutrals.

CABINETRYMid-Century, soft modern and various styles of Shaker led the way in centenary designs, while traditional picked up the rear. Brown continues to be in and we’re talking the entire spectrum from light, mid tones to coffee – brown. Our classics, black and white are still with us.

REAL/FAUXWhoever said that you can’t fool Mother Nature, didn’t see Formica’s or Cambria’s new products. These two industry leaders nailed it, by creating beautiful authentic looking surfaces, reminiscent of granite and marble.

Formica’s new introductions 180fx™ has turned the counter surface industry upside down. Their stone finishes have so much depth and realism, which will make you think twice before heading out to a slab yard. These finishes provide the qualities that we’ve come to expect from Formica’s laminate, such as durability, good looks and affordability. We also participated in Formica’s focus group and caught a glimpse of what’s next. All we can say is wow; you are really in for a treat! http://www.formica.com/

Cambria’s new drop-dead-gorgeous Waterstone Collection, provides the benefits of quarts surfaces, such as strength greater than granite or marble, maintenance-free, plus a non-porous surface . http://www.cambriausa.com

BUDGET
Many luxury manufacturers have positioned themselves to capture a larger market, by introducing a lower priced line, to their existing. This allows consumers to purchase quality products at an affordable rate. The manufacturers we spotted doing this are: Toto, Corian and Dacor.

SINKS

Sinks for the most part, were seamless integrated and designed to perform multiple functions, doubling as counter spaces/cutting board/dish drainer, like this one by Nick de Giulio and Kohler http://www.degiulio.org http://www.us.kohler.com

The one manufacturer, who drew the crowd in like bees to honey, was JSG Oceana and here’s why. Their colors are stunning and when combined with glass it’s a show stopper. What they are most proud of is creating the “Industry’s Only Functional Glass Kitchen Sink”. http://www.oceanaglassdesigns.com

TILE
As with everything else, tile designs are simplified with a contemporary edge. We noticed a lot of mosaics and overall tile size appears to be getting smaller. Glass still remains popular, either by its self or as an accent. As we saw in the 30s-50s tile designs are expanding beyond tub/shower enclosures and kitchen/bath back splashes. Tile is surrounding walls, windows and ceilings, resulting in a more uniform design.

HARDWAREBrushed and satin nickel, chrome and stainless steel in a contemporary vain continue to dominate the hardware industry. This is no surprise; sense the bulk of cabinetry being sold in North America is also contemporary. There is also a trend leaning towards warmer finishes, as in this bronze knob by Belwith. http://www.belwith.com

NEW INNOVATIONS

There weren’t a lot of new innovations. Manufacturers for the most part, were sticking with their top selling products (even if they’ve been around for a few years), however, we did find new entry door hardware by Bellwith that will simplify our lives. Through your smart phone’s app, you can activate the dead bolt making the door virtually keyless. This would be an awesome ADA (American Disability Act) aid, for individuals with Arthritis or limited hand mobility.

LIGHTING LEDs continue to light the way. Accent and task continues to get smaller and more flexible, in regards to design and installation. We saw colored LED inserted into tile back splashes, cabinet hardware and sinks.

MARKETING STRATEGIES

Manufacturers used some rather clever marketing strategies to draw attendees in. Several enticed designers into their cozy booths by offering CEUs. Even though there was minimal seating, with the remaining standing in the isles, this Grass Roots marketing was a huge success. This gave some of the smaller guys to strut their stuff. A few years ago exhibitors would have been expected to invest in larger plots of show floor real estate in order to do this. But no more! The overall attitude throughout KBIS was, the economy may not be the way we would like it, but we’re all in this together. Others like Dacor, offered intimate, standing-room-only cocktail receptions. Some like Wood Mode offered a show floor presence, while hosting off-site private parties to display their new products. On a personal note, it was a bit challenging traipsing all over Las Vegas to off-site private parties in order to do trend research. Fortunately, we know how to work hard and play hard; we squeezed-in several events and had a blast doing it. Hey, let’s not forget, we were in Las Vegas!

We saw fewer stunts and attention-grabbers this year. Colorful Circus Olay acrobats flying through the air were nowhere to be found. Scantily clad women handing out freebies were scarce. Sorry guys! However we both agreed that Hanwha L&C Surfaces uniquely displayed their new introductions. Models dressed in body suits, were painted to match their surfaces, bringing their products to life. http://www.hanwhasurfaces.com/

Dacor hosted an exclusive cocktail event, featuring Jeff Lewis, from the new show “Interior Therapy with Jeff Lewis”. The design team and crew actually move in with homeowners for a week and remodel one of their rooms. The new show airs this fall on Bravo. http://www.dacor.com/ http://www.jefflewisdesign.com/

Denise Turner and Dede Radford joined forces, to research KBIS in order to coauthor this color and design trend article.

Denise Turner, ASID, CID, CMG is an international colorist, Certified Interior, color & design trend forecaster, speaker, author and president of the Color Turners.

COLOR TURNERS turns the art of color into profit

Specializing in the home décor and building materials, with an emphasis on the architectural coatings.

As a spokesperson for ASID National, CMG Expert Speaker’s Bureau and as the Contributing Color & Design Trend Editor for idS Magazine, Malaysia, Denise regularly appears in press.

She is a winner of California Paint’s Color Challenge and her redesign of an ADA-compliant master bath won the HGTV Designer’s Challenge. Denise is A CMG Chair holder, ASID professional member, Certified Interior Designer, and former ASID chapter president and UCLA graduate.

denise@colorturners.com

www.colorturners.com

Dede Radford, CMG is an Allied Member of ASID, past IFDA Arizona chapter president, IDS Member and the Arizona Colorist and Design Services professional for Dunn-Edwards Paints.

As a Dunn-Edwards’ professional, for 15 years Dede pioneered the Builder/Designer program. She is a member of the Arizona Historical League, an Advisory Committee Member for the Art Institute of Phoenix and Collins College Interior Design Departments in Phoenix. Presently she is partnering with Green Street Development as an Industry spokesperson and supplier.

Dede is a CMG Chair Holder, has been an ASID member for 28 years and an Industry Partner for ASID, IIDA, and IFDA for the past 10 years. She was President of the Arizona IFDA Chapter in 2009 and is an IFDA International Director of Large. Dede received her BFA in Interior Design from Arizona State University and has worked in the valley and state as a professional interior designer in retail, commercial and residential design.

dede.radford@dunnedwards.com

www.dunnedwards.com

Tints, Shades & Tones

2011-05-07T18:49:00.000-07:00

Does This Color Match?

How many times do you hear “I want this shade of color” or “I like this shade but darker or lighter”?

Tints, shades and tones are fairly simple color terms; however they are often used incorrectly. Just listen to the countless, misused color terms you’ll hear in TV commercials promoting cosmetics, paint, clothing and cars. It’s no wonder they’re used incorrectly.

So what’s the big deal about using the right color terms? Here’s why! If you’re attempting to communicate with someone who's creating a particular color, you need to speak the same language. So I’m here to set it straight.

If a color is made lighter by adding white, the result is called a tint. If black is added, the darker version is called a shade. And if gray is added, the result is called a tone.

Another term that is misused is when looking at a certain color and asking… “I want another shade” which they think means a different hue of a color like a blue compared to a blue green. Another shade would be a darker version of a color as a shade is a color plus black or minus black. Here’s another commonly misused color phrase that you’ll hear when someone’s attempting to coordinate fabrics....“does this match?” The majority of the times they really mean.... “do these colors coordinate?” To use the word “match” indicates that they are the same exact color.

Tint

Tone

Shade

COLOR TURNERS helps businesses and manufacturers make the best decisions where color choices are critical. We provide accurate and tangible ways to significantly reduce your business and manufacturing risks and turn your knowledge into increased sales and customer satisfaction. http://www.colorturners.com denise@colorturners.com

Color Without Light

2011-04-24T12:43:00.000-07:00

NKBA Northern California members defy the law of physics

What to you get when you put 90+ interior designers in a showroom and one colorist who’sthere to present a color seminar and all of the power goes out?

You get “Color Without Light”

In Color Theory 101, we learned that color is basically a matter of light and without light there is no color. But that’s not completely true and here’s why.

Last week I flew up to Oakland, to present the 2012 Kitchen & Bath Color Trends to the NKBA, Northern California Chapter. A one hour flight; one night in a hotel and spend the evening with my fellow California interior designers. It sounded easy, right? Wrong!

When we arrived at the Caesarstone show room, all of the power was out. Apparently there was a huge accident, which knocked out all of the electricity in the area. With a building full of guests and no power, to run the projector, pc and microphone, this had the potential of being a complete disaster.

As a professional speaker, who travels all over the world presenting color seminars, I’ve had my share of mishaps. Such as:

Forgetting about Day Lights Savings Time and missing my flight home. Then having to wait stand by for 9 hours, 59 minutes and 33 seconds to only to get the most miserable seat on the plane. But happy to get it.

Flying 20+ hours into Asia, crossing multiple time zones and jet lagged. Then having my clients inform me, at the airport while loading my luggage and my weary body into their car, that I had a TV media interview in two hours. What the_ _ _ _ !!! Then being articulate, polished and awake enough to conduct the interview.

Presenting in a haunted conference hall, seriously! Voices (other than mine) came out of the speakers; power point slides advanced, when and where they wanted to and lights kept going on and off. After words, I explained to the event planner. She replied, “We’ve been having weird happenings in that room all week and thought sense you’re speaking on Feng Shui Color & Energy and being from California you’re use to weird things and wouldn’t mind that room.” Thanks! Put me in the worst room, without warning; then insult me and all my fellow Californians.

But nothing could have prepared me for Thursday’s event. Sure, with all my vocal training my voice is strong enough to fill a large room without a microphone. Not being able to show the colors was a primary concern. Heck! That’s what I was there for.

Most importantly my concern was, not being able to deliver the attendees the excellent presentation that they deserved. I suggested that we do this another time. But NKBA’s leadership and the members refused to give up.

While the elegant guests were sipping wine by candle light in the show room, Adam, Caesarstone's show room manager and his astonishing team were working like stealths behind the scenes. Immediately after the power went out, they obtained an electrical generator and began pulling power cords into the building.

Sense failure was not an option and we were behind schedule, I began the first part of the presentation backlit by candle light, while running my pc off its battery. By the time I started showing the actual colors, the power went on. Thank god!

You see, with the right attitude and with enough determination you can defy the law of physics and see color without light. The NKBA Northern California members proved that it can be done.

Denise Turner winner, California Paint’s Color Challenge

2011-04-18T12:00:00.000-07:00

California Paint’s Color Challenge had an overwhelming response from the design community. Hundreds of schemes were submitted, by interior designers and colorists from the US and Canada. Contestants were allowed to submit as many as five interiors and five exteriors. Denise Turner submitted five of each; she tied for the most winning color schemes (6).

Denise’s work is part of the 78 winning California Paint’s Color Challenge, which are on display in the ON LINE GALLERY and DESIGNER SELECTIONS color cards.
http://www.californiapaints.com/DesignerGallery/Gallery.html

Denise Turner, ASID, CID, CMG is an award winning international colorist, Certified Interior, color & design trend forecaster, speaker, author and president of the Color Turners.

COLOR TURNERS turns the art of color into profit
Specializing in home fashion, building materials and health industry.

Colorist and author of Kelly Moore Paint’s 2011-2012 Renewal Palette
Colorist, author, presenter and media spokesperson for Nippon Paint 2009, 2010 Asian Pacific Color Trends:
• “It’s All About Days Filled With Colour”
• “As The Colours Turn, Scintillating Colour Knowledge”

As a high-energy, result-oriented speaker, Denise is passionate about inspiring her audience, so that they quickly grasp the importance of color and how it affects their businesses’ bottom line. Her seminars are customized for manufacturers, businesses, associations and CEU for interior designers, architects, builders and homeowners.

As a spokesperson for ASID National, CMG Expert Speaker’s Bureau and as the Contributing Color & Design Trend Editor for idS Magazine, Malaysia, Denise regularly appears in press. Winner of California Paint’s Color Challenge and her redesign of an ADA-compliant master bath won the HGTV Designer’s Challenge. Denise is A CMG Chair holder, ASID professional member, former ASID chapter president and UCLA graduate.

COLOR TURNERS helps businesses and manufacturers make the best decisions where color choices are critical. We provide accurate and tangible ways to significantly reduce your business and manufacturing risks and turn your knowledge into increased sales and customer satisfaction. http://www.colorturners.com denise@colorturners.com

Yoga Makes Your Chakras Spin With Delight

2011-04-04T15:08:00.000-07:00

Energy Yoga Mats To Enhance Your Workout

There’s a good reason you feel like a god or goddess when you walk out of a yoga studio and it’s not because you’ve finally mastered the ability to twist your body into a human pretzel and actually like it. Here’s why. Yoga and other mind-quieting techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing, visualization, qui gong and tai chi can work as effectively as many medications at treating your ailments. “We now have compelling scientific proof that the mind can heal the body,’ says Herbert Benson, M.D., director of emeritus of the Benson-Henry Institute for Mind Body Medicine at the Massachusetts General Hospital.

Brain Expander

Bad news! Your brain shrinks as you age, but here’s the good news; yoga can prevent it from happening. In a Neuro Report study, researchers discovered that the prefrontal cortex and the anterior right insula, areas linked to attention and sensory processing, where healthy and thicker in those who meditate. “It’s like exercise for the brain, making it stronger” says Rick Hanson, Ph.D., neuropsychologist in San Rafael California and author of the Buddha’s Brain.

Stress Buster

The deep breathing and visualization in Yoga promotes relaxation and suppress the release of stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol. It also lowers the blood pressure, slows the heart rate and eases digestion.

Immune Enhancer
The relaxation response causes cells to release micropuffs of nitric oxide, a gas that dilutes blood vessels and stabilizes the immune system. According to Dr. Benson’s report in the Medical Science Monitor, mind/body methods works as well as prescription drugs designed to do the same thing, but without the negative side effects.

Now, if all these reasons don’t convince you to grab your yoga mat and run to your nearest yoga studio, then consider this. Those Downward Dogs, Sun Salutations and Cobras are the secret to sexy curves and a strong, lean body.

For everything I’ve mentioned and then some, you can find me at the gym five mornings a week doing Yoga, Pilates and cardio. Yes I’m one of “those people”, the gym jock-ets who are always looking for new ways to kick up their technique. In doing so, I discovered a beautiful line of yoga mats, by Donna Johansen at Inspired Art Décor, that allow me to hold poses longer, calm my mind faster and maximizes my workout. The thicker matt eases the bodies’ floor contact making it ideal for anyone with knee and elbow issues.

I work out on the gorgeous cobalt blue chakra mat. Chakra or energy center, a Sanscrit word meaning “Wheel of Light”. It refers to the body’s seven major energy centers that are positioned along the spinal column. Beginning with the Root Chakra at the base of spine and continuing up to the Crown Chakra on top of the head. Each chakra has a unique function that corresponds to a specific color. These energy portholes regulate the flow of energy in and out of our body. These energy yoga mats, called "NRG Mats" assists in rebalancing the body to its optimum wellness. They’re a must-have for all Yoga and Pilates enthusiasts.

Donna Johansen, an NCIDQ health care interior designer of 20 years, trained energy healer and artist. She creates healing paintings for health care facilities and spas. In her recent collection of yoga mats, Johansen incorporates the vibration of sacred geometric patterns, such as mandalas and healing Sanskrit symbols to bring in positive healing energy to maximize your yoga experience. http://www.inspiredartdecor.com/

Denise Turner’s Seminar Schedule- April 21, 2011

2011-03-30T19:04:00.000-07:00

2011-2012 Kitchen & Bath Color Trend Forecast

NKBA Northern California Chapter
Location: Caesarstone
2500 Teagarden Street, Unit A, San Leandro, CA
Day: April 21, 2011
Time: 5:30-8:30 pm
http://nocankba.org/
AS THE COLORS TURN
IDEC.1 CEU 5374
Have you ever wondered how certain colors magically appear everywhere in the market place and in a blink of an eye they disappear? Denise Turner, color & design trend forecaster and certified interior designer will explain why. This seminar is for fashion-forward kitchen & bath design professionals who want to be ahead of the curve and improve their bottom line.

YOU WILL:

Receive groundbreaking insight on future trends and sales and marketing practices that will make your company more financially successful.
Review the fundamentals of Color Theory & Color Physiology and use them to gain insight into your client’s color preference.
Learn how Color Forecasters track colors and trends; see how they turn their knowledge into sellable goods.
See examples of upcoming kitchen and bath color trends so that you don’t spend valuable time, creating designs or products out of discontinued colors.

Denise Turner, ASID, CID, CMG is an award winning international colorist, Certified Interior Designer and president of the COLOR TURNERS. She specializes in custom color palettes, color and design trend forecasting, marketing, color branding, product development, color therapy, writing and seminars.

Color Turner's Emphasis: manufactured goods for interior design, architecture, building materials, health industry

As a spokesperson for ASID National, CMG Expert Speaker’s Bureau and as the Contributing Color & Design Trend Editor for idS Magazine, Malaysia, Denise regularly appears in press. Her redesign of an ADA-compliant master bath won the HGTV Designer’s

Challenge. Turner has been a Professional ASID Member for over 20 years, a former ASID chapter president; has been a CMG member for seven years and a Chair Holder for four and is a UCLA graduate. http://www.colorturners.com/

Many thanks to our valuable sponsors:

Kelly Moore Paints http://www.kellymoore.com/
Caesarstone http://www.caesarstoneus.com/

Note: Please register in advance so that we can provide our sponsor with an accurate headcount. There is a late registration fee starting Friday, April 15th.

Denise Turner’s Seminar Schedule March 22-24, 2011

2011-03-17T19:58:00.000-07:00

IIDA Ohio Kentucky Chapter, 4th Annual Traveling CEU. Tour

TUESDAY, MARCH 22
Louisville
Where: Louisville Downtown Marriott
208 Jefferson
Louisville, KY 40202
When: 11:30 Registration, Noon CEU beings
Lunch will be served
Contact: Misty McCubbin 502-523-6451 or Mindy Bierman 812-282-9554

Cincinnati/Dayton
Where: Antonelli College
9100 West Chester Towne Centre Dr.
Suite 300
West Chester, OH 45069
When: 5:30 Registration, 6:00pm CEU begins
Heavy appetizers and drinks will be served
Contact: Carrie Maltesta 513-381-2112 or Cheri Tucker 513-607-6165

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 23
Columbus
Where: OSU’s Urban Art Space
50 West Town St.
Columbus, OH 43215
614-292-8861
When: 11:30 Registration, Noon CEU beings
Lunch will be served
Contacts: Britni Stone 937-287-1416 or Molly Bryant 614-582-0218

Toledo
Where: NBS
4 North St. Clair
Toledo, OH 43604
419-662-2022
When: 5:30 Registration, 6:00pm CEU begins
Heavy appetizers and drinks will be served
Contacts: Amber Stanley 419-344-6776

THURSDAY, MARCH 24
Cleveland/Akron
Where: Vocon
3142 Prospect Ave.
Cleveland, OH 44151
When: 5:30 Registration, 6:00pm CEU begins
Heavy appetizers and drinks will be served
Contact: Donna DeCarlo 330-646-7798

Color & Autism

2011-03-02T16:53:00.000-08:00

Seeing Color Through Autistic Children’s Eyes

With Autism now affecting 1 in 110 children and 1 in 70 boys, it’s imper

ative that architects, interior designers and color

professionals be aware of the specific design requirements, for this growing population. Special consideration needs to be given when selecting colors and finishes, particularly for public spaces where children frequent.

Autistic children frequently have difficulties with sensory integration, which are the senses that are experienced through sight, touch, sound, taste and smell.

They rely on their visual senses to tell them what is happening since they often difficulty decoding verbal cues. Here’s another important fact that we need to keep in mind, when selecting color for children’s spaces. Researchers have found that autistic children’s rods and cones (components of the eye) have changed due to chemical imbalances or neural deficiencies. Colors appear more vibrant to autistic children. Of the autistic children tested, 85% saw colors with greater intensity than non-autistic children. The color red for example, looks fluorescent and vibrates with intensity.

Environments with too much stimulus on walls, floors and counter surfaces can wreak havoc in neurologically delayed individual’s minds. Declutter! Disorganized, cluttered environments make it difficult for everyone to concentrate, especially for autistic children. For this reason it’s essential that their space be simplified.

TIPS:

Use non-defined patterns in fabrics, flooring and wall covering.
Color schemes should minimal hues; muted colors are preferred.
Put books, toys and other distractions out of sight; place them behind cabinet doors.
Draperies and shutters are distracting; use simple, inside mount blinds
Although color preferences vary from individuals, studies have shown that many autistic children favor pale pink.
Reduce the use of primary colors to light weight toys, which can be removed from the space if needed.

SAVE THE DATE: March 22-24 for IIDA's 4th Annual CEU Tour

2011-02-21T17:59:00.000-08:00

Denise Turner is taking her color chips on the road....Come join the party!

Denise is presenting “Colors Unveiled” at the 4th annual IIDA, Ohio- Kentucky Chapter Traveling CEU Tour.

Tuesday March 22nd @ Noon – Louisville Kentucky
Tuesday March 22nd @ 6pm – Cincinnati Ohio
Wednesday March 23rd @ Noon – Columbus Ohio
Wednesday March 23rd @ 6pm – Toledo Ohio
Thursday March 24th @ 6pm – Cleveland Ohio

MANY THANKS TO OUR VALUABLE SPONSORS:

Allermuir http://www.allermuir.com/
Stacy Garcia, Inc. http://www.stacygarciainc.com/
California Paint http://www.californiapaints.com/

Colors Unveiled

What Your Favorite Color Says About Hue

IDCEC 40047, 1.CEU

Have you ever created a beautiful color scheme for a client, which you knew they would absolutely love, but when you presented it, they absolutely hated it? This seminar will demystify color’s urban legends and is a fusion of Color Physiology, Color Psychology and Cultural Colors. You’ll gain a greater understanding of what is going on inside someone’s mind, (including your own) just by analyzing their color preferences, helping you save time and improve your bottom line.

YOU WILL:

See how color and light’s impact on your emotions, behavior, energy level and overall health.
Gain knowledge on which colors to use for specific cultures and which ones are taboo.
Through a sensory experience, feel the difference of color’s light waves and learn how to apply it to your client’s advantage.
Gain insight on how to use color when designing environments for Autistic and ADD/ADHD children.

Denise Turner, ASID, CID, CMG is an award winning international colorist, Certified Interior Designer, speaker, author, artist, color & design trend forecaster, Chroma Therapist and president of the COLOR TURNERS.

http://www.colorturners.com/

denise@colorturners.com

FOR SEMINAR DETAILS & UP-DATES, colorturners.blogspot.com

Feng Shui Color & Five Elements 2 of 2

2011-02-15T18:51:00.000-08:00

Five Elements in Detail

FIRE- Passion & High Energy

Fire element supports career endeavors; it assists in attracting money.

Fire energy on its positive side is honor and fairness; on its negative side it stands for, war and aggression. It symbolizes fire, summer and heat.

Feng Shui Fire Element Color is red
Feng Shui Fire direction is, South

EARTH-Stability & Nourishment

Earth element helps create stability, nourishment and protection for all your relationships.

Earth energy supports and interacts with other elements. It symbolizes the neutering of the environment, so that seeds can grow. Earth energy on its positive side, denotes fairness, instinct and wisdom; on its negative side, it can smother or represent the nervous anticipation of a non-existent situation.

Feng Shui Earth Element Colors are yellow and brown
Feng Shui Earth directions are, Northeast and Southwest.

METAL-Clarity & Preciseness

Metal element brings in the qualities of sharpness, focus, precision, and efficiency; its balanced presence will help you live with clarity and lightness.

Metal energy is the deadly blade of a weapon or a precious commodity. It symbolizes autumn and strength. Metal, in its nature represents solidity and the ability to contain objects, while at the same time it is a conductor. On metals’ positive side, it denotes communication, justice and brilliant ideas; on its negative side it can suggest destruction, sadness and danger.

Feng Shui Metal Element Colors are, gray and white
Feng Shui Metal directions are West and North-West

WATER-Abundance, Ease, Freshness & Water

Water element brings a refreshing calm energy, ease, purity and freshness. Water is also the icon of abundance, thus a powerful Feng Shui cure.

Water energy is associated with emotions and can suggest fear, nervousness and stress. It symbolizes winter, water itself, storm and gentle rain. On water’s positive side, it nurtures and supports with understanding; on its negative side it can exhaust and wear down. It suggests the inner self, beauty and art.

Feng Shui Water Element Colors are, blue and black
Feng Shui Water direction is North

WOOD- Health & Vitality

Wood element is lush and healing; it brings in the energy of vitality, health and growth. It is the symbol of abundance and a common cure for prosperity.

Wood energy is, nurturing, expansive and versatile. It symbolizes spring, growth and plant life. In its Yang form, it is sturdy as the oak; in its Yin form it is supple and pliable. Bamboo is cherished throughout Asia, for its ability to be strong enough for scaffolding yet flexible enough to sway with the changing winds.

Feng Shui Wood Element Colors are, green and brown
Feng Shui Wood directions are, East and Southeast

Feng Shui Color & Five Elements 1of 2

2011-02-13T17:25:00.000-08:00

By now, many of you are familiar with the “Chinese art of object placement” or better known as Feng Shui.

Its objective is to harness positive “Chi” (energy) and deflect the negative, in order to balance an environment. When the Chi is balanced, it can improve health, relationships and financial prosperity. But did you know that COLOR plays essential role in this 5000 year-old tradition?

Thanks to modern technoligy, sicentest are able to make sense of the ancient formuls on what Feng Shui is based on. We’re all familiar with radio waves and electronic devices that transmit sound waves for television and radio. Color also has a vibrational energy. Each color has a different wavelength; red is the longest visable light wave while violet is the shortest.

Red gives you the biggest bang for your Yuan!

For example, red having the longest visable light wave and consequently the most powerful color, has been used for centuries by Feng Shui Masters to cultivate positive Chi. Red is commonly used on the doors of businesses to attract more money into the establishment.

In Feng Shui each color is associated with one of the Five Elements: Fire, Earth, Metal, Water, and Wood. The elements are used in specific areas according to the Feng Shui principles, to balance an environment. The Five Elements are also deeply rooted in traditional Chinese medicines; they are the foundation of Acupuncture, Acupressure and Herbology.

Cookies Are Powerful Treats

2011-02-09T14:41:00.000-08:00

Yes! It's Girl Scout Cookie Time

In an age when you're watching every penny, it can be equally difficult to cough up between $3.50 and $4 for a very small box of cookies -- even if those Thin Mints are perhaps the best thing that will ever cross your lips. But before you say no, to those adorable, pint-sized cookie peddlers, think again.

Cookie sales help girls develop a strong sense of self-confidence, team building, goal setting, money management and much more. You see, cookies are powerful treats. They can do all this for less than a few bucks.

You never know, one of those little girls might be our future president or the scientist who discovers the cure for cancer or the leader who initiates world peace. While on a completely different scale, one of those little girls might go on to receive her Girl Scout Gold Award (highest award) and grow up to be an international colorist, Certified Interior Designer, speaker and author.

"Girl Scouting builds girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place."

Color & Art Therapy

2011-01-31T19:22:00.000-08:00

Did you know that Art is therapeutic?

This comes with no surprise to museum goers, who have an emotional experience when viewing art.

Art Therapists are at the forefront, aware of the importance of art, color and design on people’s health and well being.

With rising health care costs combined with overworked medical staff, there is greater demand to fill the void between medical professionals and patients. Art Therapists are filling the void.

As a mental health profession, Art Therapy can be found in many clinical settings with diverse populations. Its popularity is growing in non-clinical settings, such as art studios and workshops that focus on creative development. Art Therapists work with patients of all ages who are living with cancer, burns, pain, post-surgery, HIV, asthma, emotional trauma and substance abuse. They use a variety of innovative, hands-on activities that involve art materials such as paints, markers and chalk, in order to assess and treat patients.

They help patients gain insight, cope better with stress, work through traumatic experiences, increase cognitive abilities, build better relationships and to enjoy their life’s pleasures through the creative experience.

Technology & Ancient Mysticism Has Merged

Art, color and design carry the potential for very powerful expressions of energy, whether positive or negative. Thanks to equipment, such as Kirlian photography, we can actually capture and evaluate what ancient sages have always believed; the positive flow of energy around us brings a feeling of well-being while stagnant energy causes us to feel physically and emotionally low.

For example, if the artist was going through an emotionally challenging point of his life, the energy of his work would reflect it, as Pablo Picasso did in his Blue Period. Most likely, the viewer would feel somber. In comparison to Picasso’s Rose Period, where he featured comedic characters and circus people dressed cheery orange and pink hues. The energy of his work would feel optimistic.

“Colors, like features, follow the changes of the emotions.”

Pablo Picasso

The Museum of Modern Art is helping Alzheimer’s patients by having art therapy tours. With more than four million Americans suffering with Alzheimer’s disease and no cure in sight, care givers are increasingly exploring art as a way of managing the disease. As a result of Art Therapy, patient’s memories, cognitive thinking and emotional disorders improve and many doctors have lowered their dosage for prescriptions.

Geometric patterns, such as mandalas, have been used in temples across India and the Far East as a physical form that expresses the vibration of meditation. The physical body can actually sense the movement of energy around these forms and experience the benefit without meditating themselves.

Donna Johansen, a health care interior designer of 20 years, trained energy healer and artist, incorporates Evidence-Based design philosophies into her work. She creates healing paintings for health care facilities and spas. Johansen incorporates the vibration of sacred geometric patterns, such as mandalas and healing Sanskrit symbols, to bring positive healing energy into the environment through the artwork.

She has created a beautiful collection of individual scarves with vibrational designs for the US Military and to help improve the current US health care crisis. Examples of Donna Johansen’s work, right side.

With the aging population, we have more patients and fewer resources than ever before. Alternative energy modalities are gaining acceptance in hospitals, but require trained volunteers. I saw this scarf as an inexpensive way to bring the healing energy experience to people in a more accessible ways. Patients and the medical staff love her work. They are experiencing amazing positive effects, such as a reduction of stress, depression and anxiety. Just think! All those health benefits without a pill or shot.

COLOR TURNERS helps businesses and manufacturers make the best decisions where color choices are critical. We provide accurate and tangible ways to significantly reduce your business and manufacturing risks and turn their knowledge into increased sales and customer satisfaction. http://www.colorturners.com/ denise@colorturners.com

Denise Turner’s Seminar Schedule: Saturday Januarry 22, 2011

2011-01-17T19:45:00.000-08:00

Black Belt Business Tactics

Recession-Proof Your Interior Design Business
.1 CEU

The current economy has knocked the wind out of our businesses. But that doesn’t mean you have to give up the fight. Even though money is tight, we have to maintain a strong presence in order to attract new business and maintain our existing. This seminar will give you tips and techniques, to slay this fire breathing economic dragon and win.

Colors Unveiled
What Your Favorite Color Say About Hue
.1 CEU
Everyone has a favorite color. Everyone also has a color they dislike and grimace at the mere thought of it. But do you know why? This seminar will demystify color’s hidden meaning and help you quickly gain insight to your client’s personality, saving you valuable time and money. This seminar is a fusion of Color Physiology, Cultural Color and Color’s physical effects on the body. It will give you a greater understanding of what is going on inside someone’s mind, (including your own) just by studying their color choices.

DATE: Saturday, January 22, 2011

LOCATION: Hilton: Los Angeles North/ Glendale
100 West Glenoaks Blvd.
Glendale, CA 91202
818.956.5466

TIME: 1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
REGISTRATION FEE: $40.00

These seminars are open to interior design professionals, students and general public. Course credits are 2 hours (.2 CEU) approved by IDCEC. For further information or to register online, visit http://www.ccidc.org/register-ceu.html.

Color Isn’t Just Another Pretty Face

2011-01-17T19:35:00.000-08:00

Color Branding Affects YOUR Bottom Line

Part 6 Black, Gray & White

North American color associations

Black: night, sophistication, bad luck, evil, power, classic

Internationally black denotes strength and authority; it is considered to be formal elegance. It creates drama and suggests sophistication. Black is good for higher-end products.

White: calm, purity, sterile, blank canvas, modern

White reflects and amplifies all colors. The human eye views white as a brilliant color, so it immediately catches the eye in signage. White is associated with sterility and the medical field, as well as weight loss, low-fat foods, and dairy products

Gray: boredom, neutrality, ashes, conservative, status quo

Gray is the color of indecision and uncertainty. It carries the connotation of lack of strong feeling. In nature gray provides camouflage, for gray wolves, gray elephants and gray whales. It’s also a camouflage in the business world, for gray suit, individuals who wish to remain noncommittal while keeping things status quo. If you don’t want your business to fade into the shadows, consider another color other than gray as the dominate color.

COLOR TURNERS helps businesses and manufacturers make the best decisions where color choices are critical. We provide accurate and tangible ways to significantly reduce your business and manufacturing risks and turn their knowledge into increased sales and customer satisfaction.http://www.colorturners.com/%20denise@colorturners.com

Color Isn’t Just Another Pretty Face

2011-01-17T19:28:00.000-08:00

Color Branding Affects YOUR Bottom Line

Part 5 Purple & Brown

North American color associations

Purple: Purple-royalty, spirituality, creativity, sensitivity

Purple is the shortest color light wave, which helps us tap into spirituality and creativity. For this reason it’s favored by artists and religious leaders. Purple symbolizes bravery, in the US military; the “purple heart”, which signifies injury in battle. Sadly, purple is the most loved and sadly, the most hated color.

Brown: dependable, earth, grounding, stabile, harmony, hearth & home

Brown connects us to the earth; it suggests simplicity and stability. Brown is as comforting as a plate of warm chocolate chip cookies. It’s the perfect color to ground more vibrant hues. It’s a timeless classic and is a favored color family because it adds longevity to products.

COLOR TURNERS helps businesses and manufacturers make the best decisions where color choices are critical. We provide accurate and tangible ways to significantly reduce your business and manufacturing risks and turn their knowledge into increased sales and customer satisfaction. http://www.colorturners.com/%20denise@colorturners.com

Color Isn’t Just Another Pretty Face

2011-01-17T19:21:00.000-08:00

Color Branding Affects YOUR Bottom Line

Part 4 Blue & Green

North American color associations

Blue: water, sky, mystery, heaven, loyalty, trust, sadness

Blue is American’s favorite color. It’s an ideal color for financial institutions, as its message of stability inspires trust.

Green: nature, balance, healing, spring, growth environment

Green lowers your blood pressure and meaning differs with its many hues. Dark greens are associated with wealth, prestige and US currency. Brown-influenced greens are associated with ecology, making it an ideal color for eco-based businesses.

COLOR TURNERS helps businesses and manufacturers make the best decisions where color choices are critical. We provide accurate and tangible ways to significantly reduce your business and manufacturing risks and turn their knowledge into increased sales and customer satisfaction. http://www.colorturners.com/denise@colorturners.com

Color Isn’t Just Another Pretty Face

2011-01-17T19:13:00.000-08:00

Color Branding Affects YOUR Bottom Line

Part 3 Orange & Yellow

North American color associations

Orange: adventure, extroversion, celebration, inexpensive

Orange has positive associations, as in Halloween, fall foliage and Thanks Giving. Orange is the color of affordability and makes us eat faster, which is why it’s the principal color of fast food restaurants. Pure orange is not a favored color in North America; they prefer brown-based oranges like terracotta.

Yellow: sunshine, joy, creativity, optimism

Yellow is the fastest color light wave; the most visible color making it a great color for point-of-purchase displays. Lighter hues help with memory recall, which is why legal pads are yellow.

COLOR TURNERS helps businesses and manufacturers make the best decisions where color choices are critical. We provide accurate and tangible ways to significantly reduce your business and manufacturing risks and turn their knowledge into increased sales and customer satisfaction. http://www.colorturners.com/denise@colorturners.com

Color Isn’t Just Another Pretty Face

2010-11-27T10:59:00.000-08:00

Color Branding Affects YOUR Bottom Line

Part 2, Red & Pink

North American color associations

Red: blood, fire, heat, competition, emotion, life, energy, passion

Red is the longest color light wave. It raises your blood pressure, increases the heart rate and produces adrenalin, essential for “Fight of Flight”. Red gets our attention like no other color; it’s aggressive and ready for action. For these reasons it’s a familiar color for branding.

Pink: sweetness, romance, innocence, femininity

Pink stimulates our sugar cravings, making it a “must have” branding color for all things sweet. Pink's message varies depending on its value intensity. Hot pinks convey energy, youthfulness, sexy, fun and excitement. Light pinks are romantic and childlike.

COLOR TURNERS helps businesses and manufacturers make the best decisions where color choices are critical. We provide accurate and tangible ways to significantly reduce your business and manufacturing risks and turn their knowledge into increased sales and customer satisfaction. http://www.colorturners.com/ denise@colorturners.com

Color Isn’t Just Another Pretty Face

2010-11-22T21:26:00.000-08:00

Color Affects YOUR Bottom Line Part 1

Color is the master communicator. It stimulates all of our senses and conveys messages like nothing else. It warns us of potentially dangerous situations, which is why street warning signs, school busses and fire trucks are painted OSHA Yellow. Additionally Mother Nature’s most venomous creatures are yellow.

Color plays an enormous role in conveying your business’s image. Not to mention affecting your bottom line. According to CMG, (Color Marketing Group) research the “right color” can increase your brand recognition by 80% and it’s also the reason why people decide to buy 85%.

Just ask these corporations, of the importance of creating a strong color brand. Starbucks is green; Coca Cola is red and any woman will tell you that sparkles come in Tiffany Blue boxes.

Some things to consider when selecting your brand’s color:
• Tie to your brand promise.
• It should represent your image and industry.
• Cultural colors and color psychology are greatly important. One color may be appropriate for one market and a disaster in another.

COLOR TURNERS helps businesses and manufacturers make the best decisions where color choices are critical. We provide accurate and tangible ways to significantly reduce your business and manufacturing risks and turn their knowledge into increased sales and customer satisfaction. http://www.colorturners.com/ denise@colorturners.com

Color Blind

2010-11-19T16:33:00.000-08:00

Seeing Their True Colors

As a colorist, whose lively hood depends on the ability to differentiate between colors and all their subtleties, I’m intrigued with the ten percent among us, known as the “Color Blind.” My curiosity with the Color Blind began as a child, when my friend Ronnie invited me to his grandmother’s farm and apple orchard.

His grandmother said “here’s a pail. I’ll give the person a prize that comes back first with a full pail of Red Delicious Apples.” This immediately became a challenge. With pails in hand, we trudged off in opposite directions into the orchard. He yelled “I beat you; my pail is full” Ronnie proudly carried them into his grandmother’s kitchen. Instead of his grandmother praising, for picking apples in record time, she scolded him for picking green (unripe) apples. Little did grandma know Ronnie, was color-blind; he couldn’t differentiate between red and green. Color Blindness is an over looked disability; it gets little notoriety or finincianal support. Sadly, it’s also something that people, tend to poke fun at.

Did you know that this dog can’t see as many colors as humans? But isn’t he cute?

Color Blind Facts:

• Eight to ten percent of men are color-blind; only five percent of women are.

• Less than one percent of the color-blind can only see black and white.

• A male inherits his color-blindness from his mother, whose vision is normal.

• Everyone is color-blind at birth.

• Bulls are color-blind. It’s the movement of the bull fighter’s red cape, is what angers them and not the color its self.

• Color-blind men, during World War II, were sent on special missions. Their inability to see green, led to an increased ability to see through camouflage.

• Color Blindness can be acquired through injury or disease. However in most cases it’s hereditary and present since birth.

• Hereditary Color Blindness is caused by the chromosomal differences between males and females, in which the condition typically is passed from a mother her sons.

Famous Color Blind People:

• John Dalton, developer of the atomic structure theory

• Bing Crosby, singer

• Mark Twain, author

• Matt Lauer, TV news caster

• Bob Dole, politician

• Mr. Rogers, actor

COLOR TURNERS Turns the art of color into profit

denise@colorturners.com

Haint Blue

2010-11-19T14:08:00.000-08:00

What’s A Haint & Why Do They Have Their Own Color?

According to paranormal experts, Haints are restless deceased spirits, who have not moved on from the physical world. They exist as non-physical energies that are stuck between the physical and the after-life dimensions. This particular spirit is nothing like Casper the Friendly Ghost. He’s/She’s more like a cranky, mischievous, teenager who has nothing better to do than wreak havoc in the house. Which is why you don’t want them hanging around.

Haint Blue is a historical color with great significance. In cities such as Savannah, there are many homes with blue painted door frames, shutters, porches and window sills. This blue/green color is woven into Southern folk lore; its purpose is to ward off evil spirits. It was first used by African slaves, to secure the entry of their homes from unwanted spirits; it represents water which spirits cannot pass over.

Here’s how you can get the right blue for hue.

Although Haint Blue’s hue varies from city to city “authentic” regional historical paint color formulas are available. Color Strategies offers custom formulas for seven, authentic versions of Haint Blue. They have observed samples from original sources and custom color matched them using Benjamin Moore colorants mixed in MooreGard Exterior bases. http://www.colorstrategies.net/

For a customized color schemes and interior design consultations, contact the VIRTUAL COLOR CONSULTANT. We’ll help you overcome your color and interior design dilemmas. We’re the Paint Color & Interior Design Coach. We’ll collaborate with you to create the ideal color palette and be your supportive ally through your home decor projects denise@colorturners.com

Blah or Boudoir-Bedroom Colors

2010-10-06T16:48:00.000-07:00

Even the most beautifully designed homes have a dirty little secret: a cluttered, dull and dreary bedroom. Since the bedroom is a private space, it’s generally the last to be designed. On the other hand, it should be designed first as it’s the occupant’s escape from the world. Bedrooms should be tactile and sensual. We spend one third of our lives in bed — we might as well do it in luxury.

TIPS:

Use high thread count linens.
Neutral, earth-based color schemes are nurturing; medium to dark browns are ideal because they soothe the soul. But if you’re looking for excitement, consider “RED”. Red stimulates the adrenal glands and other passions.
Selecting furniture in the right scale is critical. Make a to-scale drawing of your bedroom before buying furniture.
Remember, bedrooms should support the three R’s: Rest, Rejuvenation and, let’s not forget, Romance.

For a customized color scheme and interior design consultations, contact the VIRTUAL COLOR CONSULTANT. We’ll help you overcome your color and interior design dilemmas. We're the Paint Color & Interior Design Coach. We'll collaborate with you to create the ideal color palette and be a supportive ally throughout your home décor projects. denise@colorturners.com

Colorful Bathrooms

2010-09-22T13:02:00.000-07:00

Think color and light in the bathroom doesn’t matter? Think again! Have you ever applied cosmetics, walked outside and said….EAK!! Blame it on your bathroom.

TIPS:
• Fluorescent lighting may be energy efficient; however they aren’t created equal. Install quality lighting in your home prior to selecting colors.

• Complement colors to your skin tone. When creating custom interior color palettes, I place paint chips next to my client’s face to find their ideal color. Latte with pink/red undertones work for most, unlike sage green and teal.

• Dark, dramatic colors are fine for guest baths. Lighter hues are better for primary baths. Bathrooms should support our daily routine and serve as refuges from our busy lives.

For a customized color scheme and interior design consultations, contact the VIRTUAL COLOR CONSULTANT. We’ll help you overcome your color and interior design dilemmas. We're the Paint Color & Interior Design Coach. We'll collaborate with you to create the ideal color palette and be a supportive ally throughout your home décor projects. denise@colorturners.com

Denise Turner’s Seminar Schedule

2010-09-09T17:28:00.000-07:00

Black Belt Business Tactics
Recession-Proof Your Interior Design Business
.1 CEU
The current economy has knocked the wind out of our businesses. But that doesn’t mean you have to give up the fight. Even though money is tight, we have to maintain a strong presence in order to attract new business and maintain our existing. This seminar will give you tips and techniques, to slay this fire breathing economic dragon and win.

Colors Unveiled
What Your Favorite Color Say About Hue
.1 CEU
Everyone has a favorite color. Everyone also has a color they dislike and grimace at the mere thought of it. But do you know why? This seminar will demystify color’s hidden meaning and help you quickly gain insight to your client’s personality, saving you valuable time and money. This seminar is a fusion of Color Physiology, Cultural Color and Color’s physical effects on the body. It will give you a greater understanding of what is going on inside someone’s mind, (including your own) just by studying their color choices.

DATE: September 25, 2010
LOCATION: Hilton San Diego Resort
1775 East Mission Bay Drive, San Diego, California, United States 92109
TIME: 1:30 – 3:30 p.m.

These seminars are open to interior design professionals and students as well as the general public. Course credits are 2 hours CCIDC; 2.0 LU HSW and .2 CEU HSW. The early bird registration fee, prepaid online no later than Wednesday, September 22, is $30 per person. At the door, registration is $40 per person. For a complete seminar description or to register online, visit http://www.ccidc.org/register-ceu.html.
Many thanks to our valuable sponsor: CCIDC

As The Colors Turn
2011 North American Color Trends
.1 CEU
Please join us for lunch and a 0.1 CEU class by Denise Turner, ASID, CID, CMG an international colorist, Certified Interior Designer, color and design trend forecaster, author and speaker. In the class, designers will review fundamentals of Color Theory, Color Physiology and learn how to use colors/trends to improve their bottom line.

HELD AT 2 LOCATIONS & DAYS:

DATE: Thursday, September 30th
LOCATION: ProSource of North Orange County
2342 E. Valencia Drive, Fullerton, CA 92831
TIME: 12:30 PM – 1:00 PM: Lunch/1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Class
PHONE: 714-773-9331

DATE: Tuesday, September 28th
LOCATION: ProSource of North Hollywood
12625 Sherman Way, North Hollywood, CA 91605
TIME: 12:30 PM – 1:00 PM: Lunch/ 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Class
PHONE: 818-764-3944
Many thanks to our valuable sponsors:

Pro Source, Wholesale Floorcoverings
Fabrica, Fine Carpet & Rugs
Masland, Carpet & Rugs
Porcelanosa
US Floors, Manufacturer of Unique and Sustainable Floors

Mix Patterns Like A Pro

2010-09-01T18:09:00.000-07:00

Home Décor Coordinating Tips
Do you love the professional look of coordinated colors, patterns and textures in fabrics and wallpapers for home decor? But does the idea of combining patterns and colors make you break out in a sweat? Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think. By following these simple rules, you’ll become a pattern pro in your home.

Think in threes! Whether designing home décor or planting flowers, odd numbers make it look right, especially number three. Three is the minimum number of patterns that should be used. The key to successfully mixing patterns is to vary the scale from small to large. If you choose two dominate patterns of the same scale, they will fight each other for your attention.

TIPS:

Pattern 1 Select the first pattern carefully. It’s your inspiration and anchor that pulls all the patterns and colors together. Choose something out of the ordinary to express your personality. Typically it’s larger scale pattern with multiple colors. Note: Keep in mind that this may not necessarily be used in the final scheme. It might be replaced with something else; however, it will be the inspiration for the fabric choices to come.

Pattern 2 Select a different pattern that’s half the scale of the first one. If the first pattern is a floral, the second one could be a geometric, such as plaid or stripe with some of the colors that are in the first pattern.

Pattern 3 This can be similar to either of the other patterns and use two or three of the consistent colors. For instance, a smaller floral could work well with a plaid and a larger floral.

Pattern 4 and more: This can be small scale texture or solid, with one of the coordinating colors.

Cheat it! Don’t have the confidence to mix and match the fabrics and wallpapers on your own? Don’t worry! Many textile manufacturers have done the hard work for you. They’ve created color schemes in two, three and four patterns which can all coordinate in one room.

Whites are tricky! Just ask any woman who’s tried to match her off-white shoes with her purse. When selecting whites, keep them in the same color family; this includes yellow-white, pink-white or bright white. View whites by placing other materials that are in the color scheme next to them, as they influence the white’s color. White is typically the last color to be introduced to the color scheme.

Patterns have personality! Pattern can make a major impact of how a room feels. Busy patterns raise the energy level, while simple, pale patterns calm the room. If you want the room to feel harmonious, use large patterns. Use small patterns if you want to draw attention to one part of the room.

Don’t forget the windows! Drapery fabric samples are best viewed with the light behind them rather that facing the light. This will give you a better representation of how the material will appear when hung in the window. Bear in mind, not all fabrics are designed for windows; do your home work. When selecting drapery lining colors, consider how the windows will look from the outside. Off whites are generally the safest colors for lining.

Fabrics have style! There’s more to fabric than just another pretty face. All fabrics have a style and a personality. Most would identify damask as a formal fabric, even if they don’t know its correct name. Most would also agree that gingham, muslin and plaid are informal fabrics. These levels of formality come into play when mixing patterns.

Watch your weight! It’s more aesthetically pleasing when patterns and solids are distributed throughout the room. Avoid putting all the pattern pieces on one side of the room; it will feel off balanced. Also consider the patterns of the other elements in the room, such as wood flooring, fireplace and granite counter surfaces.

Shed a little light! When selecting patterns and colors consider the room’s light source. Natural lighting, fluorescents, incandescent and LED affect colors differently. Bright daylight reflecting off a blush pink or sky blue creates an airy feeling; lamplight and candlelight reflecting on Moroccan Red produce a rich glow. View your fabrics with all the colors that will be in the room, such as carpet, fabric, wood tile, and solid surface as they influence the overall color palette.

Check your patterns! View them from a distance, at which they will be seen in the room. Whenever possible, get a large sample (memo) to see how the patterns play off each other. Keep in mind that small patterns viewed from a distance will merge and appear plain.

For a customized color scheme, that you’ll love, contact the VIRTUAL COLOR CONSULTANT. We’ll help you overcome your color and interior design dilemmas. We're the Paint Color & Interior Design Coach. We'll collaborate with you to create the ideal color palette and be a supportive ally throughout your home décor projects. denise@colorturners.com www.colorturners.com

Selecting Paint Finishes

2010-08-17T08:32:00.000-07:00

Have your interiors gone flat?

So!....You’ve selected that “perfect paint color”; now it’s time for another important decision. Yes, it’s time to select that “perfect paint finish.” Paint finishes are designed for specific surfaces and use. These tips will you help you find the appropriate paint finish for the job and eliminate the confusion. Note: Some paint manufacturers have their own name for these finishes. If this is the case, refer to the manufacturer’s literature or ask the person mixing the paint.

TIPS:

FLAT- is just like it sounds; it’s a matte finish. Flat is the first finish choice for interior ceilings and exterior walls; it’s the second choice for interior walls. Flat does not reflect light and is the best finish to camouflage small wall bumps, cracks, or other surface imperfections.

EGG SHELL- is also as it sounds; it’s a very low sheen similar to that of a chicken’s egg shell. With its slight hint of a shine, is good for walls; it holds up better for cleaning than a flat finish paint. Is it any wonder, that egg shell is the first choice for interior wall finish?

LOW SHEEN- is a smooth and velvety with a bit more gloss, than egg shell. Low Sheen finish, is specially formulated to hold up to cleaning and light scrubbing, which is why it’s particularly suitable for kids' room walls, kitchens, or bathrooms, hall ways or in any area that get a lot of traffic.

SEMI-GLOSS- is nice subtle shine, without being too glitzy and is glosser than low sheen. It cleans easily, which is why semi-gloss the first choice for interior trim, doors kitchen and bathroom cabinets. Spend the extra time and elbow grease, in your pre-paint preparation work. You’ll thank yourself later, because a poorly prepared semi-gloss surface will highlight the surface’s imperfections.

GLOSS- is the most reflective finish; it mimics plastic and enamel. Though not widely used for home interiors, it does remain the preferred finish for the very contemporary of environments. Gloss is most commonly used to add a dramatic or formal look to cabinets, trim and furniture. Gloss finish magnifies all of the surfaces imperfections, so careful preparation and sanding and priming is essential before painting with high gloss paints.

More things to consider

Clean ability & Durability
As a general rule the shinier the paint finish, the better it will stand up to multiple washings. Refer to paint manufacturer’s cleaning specifications.

Kid-Friendly Finishes
When painting children's rooms, consider using an eggs shell or low sheen paint on the walls and semi-gloss for doors and trim. These finishes will withstand repeat cleanings.

Ceiling Finish
The ceiling finish for most rooms are painted with flat finish. An eggshell finish is fine, provided the ceiling surface is flawless. Choose a glossier finish for good light reflection, but only if the ceiling is in flawless condition.

Kitchens & Baths
For any room that’s exposed to water, steam or splashing, such as the kitchen and bathroom, it’s best paint with a semi-gloss paint. If the guest bath or powder room isn’t frequently used, they can be painted with lower-gloss paint, such as satin or eggshell finish.

For a customized color scheme, that you’ll love, contact the VIRTUAL COLOR CONSULTANT. We’ll help you overcome your color and interior design dilemmas. We're the Paint Color & Interior Design Coach. We'll collaborate with you to create the ideal color palette and be a supportive ally throughout your home décor projects. denise@colorturners.com http://www.colorturners.com/

Remodel Survival Tactics

2010-08-11T15:34:00.000-07:00

So you’ve finally decided to remodel that 1970s kitchen - out with the Avocado Green and Harvest Gold tile. Wait! Those colors are back.Presuming you have a design, licensed contractor, building permits, architect and Certified Interior Designer, there are some things to do before bringing in the wrecking crew:

• Set up a temporary kitchen. Patios are ideal. Water and drain lines in exterior walls can occasionally be temporally routed to a utility sink. It beats washing dishes in the bathtub.

• Stay out of construction zones. It’s for your safety. Think ahead of where you place items to make them accessible and out of the way of the remodeling crew.

• Be flexible! Unexpected situations WILL HAPPEN!

• Contractor’s Aid. Designate a bathroom; keep the snacks and nonalcoholic drinks coming. Keep your sense of humor! You’ll soon have the home you desired.

For a customized color scheme and interior design consultations, contact the VIRTUAL COLOR CONSULTANT. We’ll help you overcome your color and interior design dilemmas. We're the Paint Color & Interior Design Coach. We'll collaborate with you to create the ideal color palette and be a supportive ally throughout your home décor projects. denise@colorturners.com

10 Tips-Select Ceiling Colors

2010-08-11T15:29:00.000-07:00

Look up! Have you forgotten something?

Ceilings represent one-sixth of a room’s space, but far too often they’re forgotten.
Ceilings are either ignored or get nothing more than a coat of white paint. Now, there’s nothing wrong with white ceilings. In fact, for years, white was considered to be the only choice for ceilings; fortunately that rule no longer applies today. If you dare to step outside your color comfort zone, you’ll add drama and excitement to your interiors.

TIPS:
1. Ceilings are typically lighter than the walls, which make the room feel brighter and more spacious.

2. White overhead tends to disappear calling our attention to the furnishings and walls.

3. White ceilings also offset highly saturated wall color, making the walls look crisp. However pure, non-tinted white tend to look too stark and clinical.

4. Tinted ceilings can dramatically change your room’s appearance.

5. Darker ceilings visually lower the space; evoking a cozy intimate interior.

6. Consider a Mono-Chromatic color scheme by painting your ceiling the same color as the walls. Depending on the hue, it could be very southing color scheme. By painting the walls and ceilings the same color, it makes your job easier; you won't have to tape off the molding at the ceiling line.

7. As with the other colors in the room, ceilings need to echo, other elements in order to integrate it into the scheme. Such as cabinetry, carpet, window coverings, furniture, otherwise the room will feel unbalanced.

8. What’s the best white? That depends on the walls. For example, if your walls are green begin by looking at green-tinted whites.

9. Here’s a fail-safe way that a painter taught me years ago. To get the perfect ceiling white that coordinates with the walls, dilute the wall paint with “non-tinted white” in a ratio of about 80 percent white to 20 percent wall color.

10. As with all paint colors, test them. Purchas a couple quarts of paint or tape a few paint chips together, of the same color and live with the test for a couple days; view them in different lighting conditions.

For a customized color scheme and interior design consultations, contact the VIRTUAL COLOR CONSULTANT. We’ll help you overcome your color and interior design dilemmas. We're the Paint Color & Interior Design Coach. We'll collaborate with you to create the ideal color palette and be a supportive ally throughout your home décor projects. denise@colorturners.com

Color Blind- Their True Colors

2010-08-02T16:01:00.000-07:00

As a colorist, whose livelihood depends on the ability to differentiate between colors and all their subtleties, I’m intrigued with the ten percent among us, known as the “Color Blind.”

My curiosity with the Color Blind began as a child, when my friend Ronnie invited me to his grandmother’s farm and apple orchard.

Color Blindness is an over looked disability; it gets little notoriety or financial support. Sadly, it’s also something that people, tend to poke fun at.

COLOR BLIND FACTS:

• Eight to ten percent of men are color-blind; only five percent of women are.

• Less than one percent of the color-blind can only see black and white.

• A male inherits his color-blindness from his mother, whose vision is normal.

• Everyone is color-blind at birth.

• Bulls are color-blind. The movement of the bull fighter’s red cape is what angers him and not the actual color.

• Color-blind American military men, during World War II, were sent on special missions. Their inability to see green, led to an increased ability to see through camouflage.

• Color Blindness can be acquired through injury or disease. However in most cases it’s hereditary and present since birth.

• Hereditary Color Blindness is caused by the chromosomal differences between males and females, in which the condition typically is passed from a mother her sons.

FAMOUS COLOR BLIND PEOPLE:

• John Dalton, developer of the atomic structure theory

• Bing Crosby, singer

• Mark Twain, author

• Matt Lauer, TV news caster

• Bob Dole, politician

• Mr. Rogers, actor

Does Paint Color Scare Hue?

2010-07-20T13:09:00.000-07:00

For my first blog entry in Color Talk Colorfully Inspired, I pondered on which article to select. So, I went to my foundation.. PAINT!

Selecting the "right paint color" should be adds to the list of "Things That Fear People The Most", just after dying and public speaking. This is unfortunate because paint gives you the biggest bang for your buck; it protects your largest investment and it's the easiest way to conceal a multitude of challenges.

NO BUDGET TO:

Replace that odd colored bathroom tile. Then use a coordinating paint color to down play its undesirable features.

Completely furnish that living room. Then paint the walls in warm hues and the unfurnished room won't look quite as empty.

Replace that tattered, hand-me-down sofa in the living room. Then paint the walls in a color similar to the sofa; it will virtually blend into the background.

Replace that weathered, garage sale patio furniture. Then hit it with a can of spray paint; it will bring it back to life.

COLOR TURNERS Turning the art of color into profit