Your home is a reflection of what you love. And love for the outdoors is at the heart of living in the Wasatch Back. So, it’s no surprise that the colors of nature remain a top design trend. From light and bright to earthy and deep, shades of green evoke serenity, harmony, and peace, making your home a rejuvenating retreat. And studies have found that seeing green, instead of evoking envy, can improve mood, memory, and inner peace.

Green is a versatile hue that fits any style. Modern aesthetics often incorporate greens with grey undertones that can function as a neutral. This is a welcome evolution, bringing depth and warmth to cool greys that dominated interior design for years. For a brighter look, pure greens or those with warm undertones make rooms feel cheerful and energetic.

Whether bold or subtle, using green in your home adds major style as it promotes well-being. Let the natural beauty of any shade transform your home into a sanctuary.

Fresh and Calm Light Shades
Lighter greens can create a sense of serenity. Neutral, misty sage looks elegant, inviting, and fresh. Colors of sea glass are popping up in spaces designed to enhance well-being.

Bedrooms and bathrooms are ideal spots for calming hues, creating an airy, bright, and relaxing feel. These shades are particularly good in areas where you want to reduce stress, and they can foster creativity and productivity, making them ideal for home offices.

Versatile and Balanced Medium Shades
Medium greens, such as olive, jade, and artichoke, add personality and balance to a space. They work wonderfully as secondary colors, especially in rooms with light or white walls, to add visual interest and contrast.

Add a splash of medium green with an accent wall (or ceiling!) in a solid color, tile, or boldly patterned wallpaper. Hang an oversized piece of art. Add a designer touch with a statement piece of furniture or an unexpected splash of color on kitchen or bathroom cabinets.

Dramatic and Cozy Dark Shades
Envelop your space in deep, dark shades of green for an intimate and sophisticated feel. A cool, deep olive or pine, rich emerald, or velvety orchard green adds luxury, depth, and drama to a room.

Deep forest shades are perfect for living, dining, and bedrooms. Or a painted wall of built-ins can elevate a home office. Make sure there’s plenty of natural and ambient light to keep the space cozy, not claustrophobic.

Bold and Bright Accent Greens
Any shade of green makes a great pop of color but bring on the brights for a high-energy vibe. Chartreuse, lime, or seafoam are playful and can create instant points of interest around the room.

When adding accents and accessories, use the rule of three: place three different items of the same color around the room to draw the eye and unify the space. Try adding vibrant artwork, throw pillows, a boldly patterned rug, or other decorative objects.

Pick Your Palette
Green offers endless color scheme options. For a tranquil space, use less contrast. Bring the energy with contrast and bold pops of color. Neutrals and natural wood tones work well with any shade. And remember to ensure harmony in undertones.
Desert-inspired decor with cactus green pairs well with shades of orange like peach, rust, and terra cotta. Transitional spaces in muted sage look great with blush, while brighter greens pair well with a multitude of pinks. Jewel tones pop with royal blue and mellow yellow. A bold, artsy vibe calls for vibrant red. Dark, moody greens lean into the drama with deep brown, navy, or aubergine, and honeyed wood tones.

Finishing Details
If green doesn’t work for your color scheme, use plants. Real or high-quality faux greenery, botanical prints, and nature-inspired artwork bring the outdoors in. Enhance the calm feel of green in the space with fresh scents like eucalyptus, pine, or green tea.

See more in the Fall Home 2024 Magazine

The post Shades of Green appeared first on Park Record.

Minimalist interiors are stunning and serene, but if you crave a richer environment brimming with energy and individuality, consider embracing maximalism. It’s the opposite of restraint—celebrating abundance, exuberance, and joy.
With roots in Baroque and Hollywood Regency styles, today’s maximalism showcases curated chaos with a modern aesthetic. It combines your passions, personality, and tastes in a way that’s inviting, not overwhelming.
Go all in with color, texture, and pattern to craft a unique atmosphere that tells the story of you. Let’s explore how to infuse your home with the spirit of maximalism.

Define Your Style

Maximalism breaks some design rules. But one rule not to break? Design with intention. Let your imagination run wild then find unifying characteristics to define your style. This is key to making purposeful choices for a harmonious home. Here are some suggestions:

Contemporary
Think clean lines, modern and pop art, and a touch of industrial edge. Bright, playful colors like emerald green, cobalt blue, or burnt orange contrast beautifully with neutrals. Use sharp geometrics and bold graphic patterns with statement furniture in vibrant hues.

Lodge
Elevate the mountain aesthetic. Moody tones like ruby red, deep blue, and forest green bring a cozy feel. Add traditional patterns like plaid, tartan, or floral combined with wild animal prints. Bring in Turkish rugs, Navajo tapestries, plush faux furs, and natural elements like pinecones or antlers to add character.

Eclectic
Mix traditional with modern for visual interest. Pair vintage and contemporary furniture. Layer textures and textiles like chunky knits and funky patterns. Introduce global-inspired accents, such as colorful masks or woven baskets, for a touch of adventure.
Dark and moody, bright and bohemian, world traveler, glitz and glam, granny chic–there’s no limit to the styles you can amp up with maximalism.

No Surface Left Untouched

“More is more” is the mantra for maximalist color, pattern, and texture. Start with the largest surfaces in a room–the walls and ceiling. Bare walls are practically non-existent. Every surface, including the ceiling, often features something to catch the eye.

Bold Colors and Patterns
Choose saturated hues that complement colorful furniture to add instant energy. Pair deep teal or turquoise with a bold orange sofa, baby pink with a burgundy upholstered headboard, or mossy green with a bright yellow bookcase. Paint your trim in bright, bold colors to grab attention.

Statement Wallpaper
Opt for bold wallpaper on the walls or ceiling. Large murals, striking graphics, oversized patterns, and animal prints make a maximalist impact.

Bookcases and Gallery Walls
Floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall bookcases add life to your walls and provide plenty of space to showcase collections and accessories. Cover your walls with artwork. Gallery walls, a hallmark of maximalism, should mix pieces of various sizes and subjects to layer on personality. Use colors, subject matter, or frame finishes to unify the mix. Keep experimenting until it feels right.

Rugs
Don’t forget the floor. Layer boldly patterned and colorful rugs to anchor the space.

Pattern Play

Fearlessly mixing and matching patterns creates a maximalist riot for the senses. Choose a mix of patterns. Cover large areas with wallpaper and rugs, and use patterns in small ways with accent pillows and textiles.
The secret to harmony is finding a common thread. If you love floral patterns, try combining different scales and colors of floral patterns or use color to tie together contrasting patterns. Animal prints like cheetah, leopard, and zebra can act as neutrals, adding edge or elegance.
If too many patterns feel overwhelming, use a neutral base. A big black-and-white pattern can add plenty of drama. Using similar colors and tones creates a sophisticated look. Introduce solid colors and textures to anchor the space and give the eyes a place to rest.

Showcase Your Collections
Maximalism celebrates abundance, not clutter. Carefully curate accents and accessories that express your interests and personality. Each item should have a purpose, a place, and contribute to the overall aesthetic.
Collections are the heart of maximalism’s charm, offering small-scale explorations of your interests. Edit until you find a sense of harmony. Consider each item’s impact on the space. Does it complement the existing decor or create chaos?
Break out the family photos and heirlooms, and layer objects onto as many surfaces as possible. Display unique ceramics, antique books, or travel souvenirs with flair. Group similar items for impact. Mix and match different collections for an eclectic look. Scour antique stores and local markets. They’re treasure troves for unique collectibles and trinkets that add character.

Inject Fun and Joy

Maximalism is about celebrating life, so don’t be afraid to add elements of fun and whimsy.

Unexpected Colors.
Incorporate unexpected color choices. A vibrant handrail, a playful pop of color on cabinetry, or a brightly lacquered furniture piece adds playfulness without compromising sophistication. Surprising shades on accent furniture and vibrant accessories can add wow to the space.

Opulent Accents.
Hang oversized light fixtures or crystal chandeliers. Use ornate mirrors or picture frames. Surround your windows with voluminous floor-to-ceiling curtains. Add attention-grabbing door and drawer pulls to cabinets or furniture. Opt for plush textures in throws and pillows.

Neon Signs and Fun Decor.
Neon signs inject instant personality. Choose an inspiring quote, playful phrase, or simply your name. Hang irreverent art pieces to set a lighthearted tone. Experiment with different textures, patterns, and colors in your accents. Pillows, again, are a great way to add a bold geometric pattern or unique shape or print to instantly energize a space.

Living Elements.
A profusion of plants is common in maximal style. Beyond a jungle of potted plants, try a living wall of plants to add life, color, and dramatic impact.

Embrace Your Inner Maximalist

Maximalism is more than a trend; it’s a lifestyle. It’s about creating a home that reflects your personality, passions, and experiences. By embracing color, pattern, texture, and personal collections, you can transform your space into a haven of comfort, inspiration, and joy.
Fear has no place in maximalism. This is the time to go big AND go home. Curate your possessions carefully, mix patterns with intention, and leave the safe neutral decor behind. Experiment with unexpected elements. Be brave.
Maximalism takes confidence and expertise to get the balance right. If you’re unsure where to start, consider consulting with an interior designer to guide you through the process and make your vision a reality. Embrace your inner maximalist to create a space that’s truly extraordinary.

See more in the Fall Home 2024 Magazine

The post Trend Report: Ode to Joy appeared first on Park Record.

From laughter-filled days on the water to captivating nights under the stars, Utah offers some of the best outdoor recreation and camping in Utah within a short drive from Park City. Head to a nearby state park or national forest to make some summer memories, but book your spot early, because campsites fill up fast!

Jordanelle State Park
In the Heber Valley, Jordanelle Reservoir is popular for motorized and non-motorized boating and water sports within three recreation areas: Hailstone, Rock Cliff, and Ross Creek, so there’s plenty to do on and off the water.
Several campgrounds are in the Hailstone area, including RV sites with partial hookups, plus tent-only and hike- or boat-in options. On the more natural side of the park, Rock Cliff Campground tent-only sites are situated among the cottonwoods. Glamping, cabins, and cottages are also available.

Rockport State Park
Rockport State Park in Peoa is a lakeside retreat known for water sports, including tubing, waterskiing, and fishing for trout and bass. Bring your own equipment to test your skills at the 3D archery range with life-size animal targets.
There are over 100 campsites, some with RV hookups and other primitive options.

Wasatch Mountain State Park
In the summer, Wasatch Mountain State Park is a golfer’s paradise with two courses. After hitting the greens, explore over 40 miles of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, or cast a line in a nearby pond. Make a quick visit to two historic areas: Tate Barn and Huber Grove–home of the Huber Farmhouse and Creamery.
Pine Creek Campground provides plenty of campsites for tents and RVs with full or partial hookups, plus cabins and group sites.

Deer Creek State Park
Deer Creek State Park offers endless opportunities for fun. Enjoy boating, fishing, or paddling on the reservoir. Take a kiteboarding or eFoil (flying surfboard) lesson. Head to Rainbow Bay Aqua Park for trampolines and an obstacle course. There’s hiking, biking, horseback riding, or disc golf. Or experience the views on a zipline tour.
Deer Creek has three campgrounds: Chokecherry and Fox Den Campgrounds offer sites for tents and RVs that include full or partial hookups. The Great Horned Owl Campground has standard sites without hookups.

Echo State Park
A quick 35-minute drive northeast of Park City, the 1,450-acre reservoir boasts plenty of space for water sports: boating, kayaking, and swimming. Enjoy calm evening waters by paddleboarding or fishing at sunset.
It’s an easy walk to the beach from Dry Hollow or Red Rock Marina Campgrounds. Several primitive campsites are available, many with full or partial hookups for RVs. One group site, a glamping trailer, and 5 air-conditioned cottages are also available.

East Canyon State Park
Tucked amidst the mountain peaks, East Canyon Reservoir is a perfect destination for boating, fishing, and paddling. Watercraft rentals and supplies are available at the general store. Or, take a hike on a section of the historic Mormon Pioneer Trail before relaxing on the beach.
Find tent and RV camping at Dixie Creek Campground on the north shore, or you can choose a yurt or rustic cabin. Big Rock Campground to the south offers primitive campsites with no utilities.
For camping at any Utah State Park, reservations are available on a four-month rolling basis. Contact the Reservation Call Center at 800-322-3770 or reserve online at utahstateparks.reserveamerica.com. Park entry fees vary or the Annual Utah State Park Pass is accepted.

Mirror Lake Scenic Highway
(State Route 150)
For cool mountain air rustling through the pines, head to the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. Spanning 2.2 million acres, there are plenty of places to hike, backpack, fish, paddle, and ride horses across Utah, Idaho, and Wyoming.
The Mirror Lake Highway in the Heber-Kamas district is the easiest to get to from Park City. There are nearly 20 campgrounds for tents and RVs within a one-hour drive, including accessible sites at Washington Lake and Mirror Lake, which also has equestrian camps. Shingle Creek is the place to go with OHVs. And Ponderosa or Pine Valley are great for groups. The Lost Lake Campground even offers three glamping tents. All are standard nonelectric sites.

Ashley National Forest
Venture further to discover Ashley National Forest near Hanna, UT, along the southern slopes of the Uintas. At the North Fork, Rock Creek, or Moon Lake areas, visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, backpacking, fishing, OHV, and horse riding. Boats can be carried in at Upper Stillwater in Rock Creek, and motorized and non-motorized boats are allowed at Moon Lake.
All campgrounds are standard nonelectic sites for tents and RVs. Moon Lake Campground is adjacent to Moon Lake Resort where rentals and supplies may be purchased.
For national parks or forests, the National Recreation Reservation Service takes reservations for most campgrounds up to 240 days in advance at 1-877-444-6777 or www.recreation.gov. Sites can be reserved up to 5 days in advance, after which sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Your camp reservation fees permit you to park and recreate within the developed campground. A pass is required if you plan to park anywhere outside the campground.
Remember to always check stateparks.utah.gov or fs.usda.gov for alerts, restrictions, water availability, or other important details about the park and campground. 

See more in the 2024 Summer Adventure Guide

The post Unforgettable Camping Awaits on the Wasatch Back appeared first on Park Record.