KIM COOK (AP) -- In home decor, there's something about the start of spring. When life's renewing itself outdoors, we feel the urge to revive our interiors too. This season, decor offerings are especially upbeat. Start with the palette. "Saturated" is a word being used a lot; it means ripe plum hues, intense tangerines, rich ... Read More

AP -- Ceilings are the Rodney Dangerfield of homes. They get no respect. But there are plenty of easy ways to make over this oft-overlooked area, from the quirky charm of Victorian-era, pressed-tin tiles and beadboard to a simple splash of color. "Historically, ceilings were highly decorated, but it seems as houses have become more modern ... Read More

AP -- Small may be in when it comes to homes, but that doesn't mean it's easy to decorate. In this undated photo courtesy of Better Homes and Gardens, a small sunroom is shown. (AP Photo/Better Homes and Gardens) A few simple guidelines, however, can turn a small space from Dilemma to ... Read More

By KIM COOK (AP) -- Why was Parrish blue the "in" color of the 1910s? What was with those 1950s pink bathrooms? Remember the 1970s' "Harvest Gold" kitchen appliances? A new book, "Pantone: The 20th Century in Color" (Chronicle Books), looks at how color and cultural history affect each other, and find their way into our homes. Authors Leatrice ... Read More

MAYVILLE, NY — Kristie Brown's desire was to open a store that became known and appreciated for its upbeat atmosphere and its fresh and funky assortment of hip home décor. Opened in 2007, Home Chic and has continued to offer, "Fresh and hip décor," with new features each year. This year, the store added upholstered furniture to its offerings. ... Read More

It's a request that designers hear constantly: Bring more sunshine into my home. Whatever a person's taste, "I think almost everybody wants to maximize the light in their living space," says HGTV host Genevieve Gorder. Natural light can bring out the beauty of fabrics and furniture, and seems to have an intangible impact. The conventional wisdom ... Read More

One of the biggest home and garden events of the year will be taking place later this month at the Chautauqua County Fair Grounds in Dunkirk. The 2010 Fredonia Rotary Home & Garden Show will take place April 23 through the 25, giving are residents plenty of opportunities to learn about several area businesses and services offered ... Read More

112 W. Main Street It’s not just carpeting that you will find at Pucci’s, but also furniture, hardwood floors, and bedding sets. (Photo by Carson Carey) Stop off at Pucci’s Carpet One Furniture and Bedding to pick up a Chautauqua Star and take a look at carpets and other home décor. Chances are you will ... Read More

A bouquet of roses. A classic, and sure to make the girl in your life squeal. (Photo by Carson Carey) If you want to brighten someone’s day, or want to tell someone how special they are and how much they mean to you, you might want to make Fresh and Fancy Flowers the next business you stop at to pick up a Chautauqua Star. It is owned ... Read More

  Home Chic is located right next to Webb’s Captain’s Table, on West Lake Road in Mayville (Photo by Carson Carey) Located on West Lake Road in Mayville, right next to Webb’s Captain’s Table Restaurant, Home Chic offers items such as dinnerware, cocktail glasses, vintage furniture, rugs, pillows, ... Read More