Luau! Decorating with a Hawaiian Theme

Hawaii is a first choice travel destination with millions of people -
and for good reason. Bring a little of that island feeling into your
home, either indoors or in your outdoor living space. You can apply
this theme to an elegant dinner party, a fun and funky luau, or
anything in between.

1. First, look at the space itself, including floors, walls,
roof or ceiling.

Texture
Think natural materials. Try bamboo matting on the floor. It's fairly
inexpensive, very durable and easy on the feet. For a roof or large
patio umbrella, consider palm leaf thatch.

Color
Choose rich vibrant colors inspired by island vegetation: hibiscus
red, bird of paradise orange or palm tree green. Use pineapple and
mango colored accents. Bright navy or marine blue makes an effective
background.

2. Next, add the furniture. Again, natural materials are best.
For example, raffia table skirts and rattan or bamboo furniture are a
fast way to create that island atmosphere. If you're using indoor
dining chairs or resin patio chairs and want an elegant feel,
consider slipovers made of a fabric with a Hawaiian print.

3. Now add lighting. Real flame, whether in candles or bamboo
torches, will give you the most authentic look.

4. Last but not least, accessorize.

Motifs
When you think of Hawaii, you probably imagine palm trees swaying in
the breeze, brightly colored exotic flowers, or maybe even hula
dancers and surfboards. Each of these is an example of a motif.

Choose one motif and run with it, or mix a couple. Motifs with a
common theme (such as Hawaii!) can be easily tied together by style
or color.

Once you've picked a motif, you'll find lots of ideas for adding it
to your room. From windsocks and stepping stones to tablecloths and
salt & pepper shakers, the list of thematic accessories you can find
is seemingly endless.

Don't overdo it though. Sometimes less is more, especially if you're
decorating for a full season of living in the theme.

Music
Music is a powerful mood setter. CDs of traditional or contemporary
island tunes can provide backdrop to conversation, or liven up the
fun and games.


So pass around the leis and go Hawaiian in your outdoor space.


Debbie Rodgers owns and operates Paradise Porch, and is dedicated to
helping people create outdoor living spaces that nurture and enrich
them. Visit her on the web at www.paradiseporch.com and get a free
report on "Eight easy ways to create privacy in your outdoor space".
Mail to debbie@...