^[1](MCT)—It’s not hard to conjure up a vision of emerald, Pantone’s pick for 2013 Color of the Year.

It’s all around us in summer, dressing up the trees in a hue that sparkles against a blue sky. And the gemstone never goes out of style at jewelry stores.

But it’s not always easy to incorporate such a bold color into your home décor. So we asked decorators to give us some ideas for bringing this gem of a color down to earth.

Allan Chapman, Allan Chapman Interiors, Charlotte, N.C.:

“The color emerald green exudes elegance and sophistication, rich in its layers and endless variations.”

• Upholster your sofa in a rich emerald hue, in a cotton-velvet. It will create a wonderful backdrop for pillows in lighter silks and linens.

• Paint your study, library, den or dining room in glossy emerald paint. For a dramatic effect, accessorize with metallic accents such as gold picture frames, sconces or a vibrant chandelier.

• Update an otherwise neutral room with emerald window treatments in solid silk. Simple, pleated panels hung from a gilded rod will add instant glamour.

• Accessorize with pops of emerald. Try a pair of emerald green porcelain lamps, or malachite green picture frames, boxes and carved figurines.

Andrea Robinson, Andrea Robinson Interior Design and Consulting, Charlotte:

“I associate the color emerald with elegance. It is rich, lush and regal.”

• To create a bold, striking contrast, paint an entire room in emerald with crisp white trim. Ground the space with a graphic black-and-white rug and neutral upholstery.

• Turn a neutral setting into an exotic space by introducing emerald upholstery and an antique rug.

• Emerald green can be incorporated into an existing environment with artwork, lamps and glassware.

• If you are just beginning a room, consider an emerald velvet sofa as the inspiration piece.

• If you just want to freshen up an environment, add a variety of emerald pillows to existing upholstery for a quick and easy update.

Davetta Moore, Davetta Moore Designs, Concord, N.C.:

“Emerald is commanding but nurturing all at the same time.”

• Paint the walls in a foyer, hall, den or library.

• Use the color on an upholstered piece of furniture.

• Update an old dresser and paint it emerald green.

• Paint an antique chair frame emerald, then add new fabric.

• Use plants, flowers, fruit or vegetables as a way to include the color green.

©2013 The News & Observer (Raleigh, N.C.)
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