Flower Factor: A Lifestyle Blog From Aboutflowers.com

The second big color and design trend theme you’ll see this year is called “The Incarnation of Earth’s Elements.” This is the second in a four-part series.

With the Incarnation of Earth’s Elements, we see how the fundamental elements found in nature, such as minerals, fire, water, and wood are incorporated into our lifestyles. Today, many of us take time to invest in ourselves in living healthier. We may eat healthier and exercise more. One may also explore outdoor activities such as hiking and bike riding which provide a balance and an escape from our hectic daily work routines. It’s all about healing our spirits.

We have seen for several years now nature becoming a strong trend incorporated into our home and work places. The addition of natural products helps us keep in touch with nature rooting and connecting us with our environment. Interior plants such as orchids, callas and easy-care succulents will continue to see a rise in popularity. We also see in interior design elements from nature being mixed — metals with interesting grainy woods such as zebra or burl to marbles and stone with wood.

Colors explode with fiery reds, watery blues, vibrant grass greens that are occasionally soothed by the addition of some more neutral gray, chocolate and champagne gold.  Read More

Did you know that flowers and plants are scientifically proven to improve the dynamic in the workplace, whether in a corporate space or home office? Research shows that workers’ idea generation, creative performance and problem solving skills improve substantially in workplaces that include flowers and plants.

The great news is: It’s an easy way to spark creativity and boost morale. Interior designer Kelli Ellis and I recently partnered to provide tips and trends for using flowers to your advantage in the workplace. You’ll even find out which colors can help fight fatigue!

Have you ever worked in a place that had flowers in meeting rooms or offices? How did it make you feel?

For more tips and advice, visit aboutflowers.com/twominutetrends.

In today’s high-tech world, it’s more important than ever to spend time talking and looking each other in the eye. Did you know that flowers are scientifically proven to help make intimate connections and increase contact with family and friends? Think about when you’ve had flowers in your home. People tend to gather around them because nature engages us. There’s a good reason why you see flowers used on the sets of talk shows, in hotel lobbies and restaurants. Color expert Mark Woodman and I share easy tips on how to use color and small touches to spark conversation at home.

Try it: Place flowers in your family room or kitchen. Did it help?

For more tips and advice, visit aboutflowers.com/twominutetrends.

The hurried, non-stop lifestyles that we live today can be stressful. After a long day or before the start of a new one, it is important for our homes to serve as a refuge, a place where we can escape from the pressures of the outside world. There is a simple, easy way to achieve that – flowers. Did you know that flowers are scientifically proven to decrease worry and anxiety? Even certain colors can create a feeling of zen. Check out these tips from interior designer Kelli Ellis and me on how you can create spaces in your home to help you decompress and relax.

Have you ever experienced a moment of calm in the presence of flowers?

For more tips and advice, visit aboutflowers.com/twominutetrends.

First impressions mean a lot when it comes to our homes. Our entryways – large or small – provide the opportunity for our guests to feel welcome the moment they walk in the door. Adding bright splashes of color to a neutral entryway can give the space a WOW factor. One way that’s simple and always makes a statement is flowers. They say, “I’m glad you’re here.”

I recently partnered with color expert Mark Woodman to show you how to make a meaningful first impression in your home.

What is your favorite way to make your guests feel welcome?

For more tips and advice, visit aboutflowers.com/twominutetrends.