It’s funny how something can be exactly on trend the moment it hits the shelves. I mean, how do “they” know? Where are these crystal balls they’re gazing into? Professionally, I see these phases continually come and go – the current rise of black and white interiors, the maturation of neon accents, or everything and anything with a owl, hedgehog, fox on it. I sometimes find myself drawn towards a “new” color. And sure enough, a few months later it is not only reflected in my work (was that an emerald green peg rack I just designed?), it becomes Pantone’s color of the year.

No matter what trend you may be sampling or longing for, keep in mind that your home should reflect you. As Nate Berkus says, “Your home should tell your story.” My goal is to have your home reflect your best self, and having good quality, versatile pieces are the platform for bringing out the most in your space. Recently, West Elm launched such a collection with artist, Alyson Fox. Her pieces are not only on trend but offer flexibility and modern interpretations of classic designs – with excellent quality at an exceptional price point.

The moment I saw Alyson’s rugs, I imagined formerly electrically bright carpets, now perfectly faded and well worn, like a favorite pair of Levi’s with just the right amount of Boheme. Pair her Stencil rug with a heavy dose of candy red or deep green and you’re off and running. Or keep it mellow with black and warm woods.  The same goes for Fox’s Overdyed Rows rug. Brighten it up or keep it calm. The quality and colors can’t be beat.

And something you may not know, West Elm will happily sell you a 1′ x 1′ rug sample for about $25. In the last two months alone, I’ve used over 6 of these babies for different projects. Perfect for color matching and bringing on site, just return them to the store for a refund (within 30 days) when you’re done. I’m pretty sure these samples are only available through the stores, so if you find yourself on the site or 800 number, they may not have a clue what you’re talking about. In my experience, the sales people in the stores are much more helpful and clued in on WE policies and designs.

Have you noticed any of these Creative Partnerships lately? Keep an eye out as I highlight more of these artistic mergers in the coming months. Plenty of the big box stores are looking for new ways you can continue shop with them in order to transform cookie cutter design into original expressions of you.