The saying, “the shoemaker’s children have no shoes” certainly applies to me:  I speak internationally about Design Psychology, the field I founded. I advise people on ways they can “design from within” to create life-enhancing homes.  Yet -- the home I’ve lived in for twelve years still has the same white walls (well, a bit dirtier) as the day I moved in!

With the holidays approaching and my two 20-something children coming home, I’ve vowed to at least paint my den.  But, what color?  As a Design Psychologist I know that color should not only look good but feel good and have meaning:  I want the room to feel like a nest, an intimate gathering space for golden, family moments.

That’s it!  Gold!  In this time of financial crisis, a golden color also would remind me to remain focused on financial stability.  A golden wall would match my magnificent, golden, Indian tapestry of temples, birds and jeweled dancers.  The artwork is one of many in our home that symbolizes the love that weaves our multicultural clan together across continents.

In fact, with thoughts of gold dancing in my head, please come with me over the next few months as I continue to travel to exotic Beijing, Shanghai, to Oklahoma City, Philadelphia - - wherever life takes me to speak about Design Psychology and seek inspiration from Color in the City.

Meanwhile, SOME TIPS:

-       Choose home décor that has meaning and reminds you of life goals.

-       Select wall colors to match your special artwork- - not visa versa.

-       Peer out your window and beyond at “Color in the City”- - inspiration for paint choices that help you feel Some Place Like Home.