So exciting is the sight of fresh green buds poking through the snow in spring -- nature's finest signal that winter's long spell is over. You can't help but rejoice that the world will once again be green.

Interestingly, we also have a unique relationship with the colour green: our eyes can detect more shades of green than any other colour, which may be why we use it so much in our homes.

Interior decorator Faye Longhurst says green is the most popular colour for wall paint next to shades of white, and predicts we're going to see even more of it. "Green will continue to be a favourite in the next few years, mainly because of the focus and concern for our environment," she says.

While green is generally a relaxing and soothing colour, it is possible to go overboard and Faye cautions against its overuse. "Too much green in a home not complimented by warm colours such as pink, red, orange and yellow can have a depressing effect," she explains.

Where to use green
Green is so versatile it can be found in both warm and cool shades, but finding the "right" green for your individual rooms can be very difficult. Here are Faye's recommendations:

For the kids: "A strong lime green, because of the yellow content, can be quite stimulating so wouldn't be good for a child's bedroom but could work in a playroom," she says.

Entrances or dining rooms: "Green is a wonderful colour for a hallway/entrance or dining room providing the right shade is chosen for the room's direction and the amount of lighting in the room," she explains. For these rooms in particular, homeowners should seek the guidance of a professional for the best results.

To compliment room features: "Most greens are very complimentary against stained wood, and beautiful beside white trim," she says.

Faye cautions that choosing green for a north room may make the room seem cold. She also warns against green in the kitchen with too much yellow pigment in the tint.

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Faye Longhurst is an interior decorator with over 20 years' experience and owner of Faye Longhurst Designs in Newmarket, Ontario since 1990. For a consultation, call 905-895-2755.

 

1 Harris Marcus Home Leather Ottoman, $249
homedepot.ca
Like resting your feet on a lump of moss. This 17.25 inch-squared ottoman is just right for any living room size.

2 Green apples, US$3 each
pier1.com
Crisp green apples lend a sense of freshness to the kitchen counter or dining room centrepiece, and these ones will never spoil.

3 Method Green Tea & Aloe hand wash, $4
methodhome.com
All Method products are as environmentally safe as they are great at cleaning. This hand wash contains vitamin E and aloe for your hands plus is biodegradable for the earth. Available in Shoppers Drug Marts across Canada.

4 Checker Fresh Mint Green Pillow, $19.95
pillow-decor.com
Artistic checkers contrasted with solid mint green make this throw pillow a perfect piece of character for rooms needing oomph or to compliment an already eclectic space.

5 Green Funky Chair, $499
bombaycompany.com
So pretty, and so funky! This beautifully carved chair from Bombay Company is covered in a suede-like microfiber for a luxurious feel.

6 Opal Vases, $12 - $28
justhomedecor.com
Green vases will make any assortment of flowers extra brilliant, or fill them with artfully arranged twigs for a more earthy look.

7 Slätthult bamboo wall decoration, $29.99 per six pack
ikea.com
These very cool bamboo wall decorations come with adhesive backings. You decide the look, size and spacing of all the pieces and stick them anywhere in your home.

8 Areca Silk Palm Tree, 3', $73.92
globalhomegifts.com
The easiest way to add green to your home? Add plants, of course! This Areca Palm is silk for easiest care and convenience, but visit your local nursery for a variety of tropical trees and plants.

9 Built NY - Neoprene Gourmet Getaway Picnic Tote, $30
totalhomestore.ca
For "PDA, Chardonnay, Bain du Soleil", this tote is truly designed for everything! Wetsuit-grade material ensures no soggy spills, insulates hot or cold food contents and provides padding for electronics.

10 Citrus Cilantro Infused Candles, US$6 - $16
pier1.com
Envelope your living space with citrus, cilantro, basil, lime blossom, rose, muguet, jasmine, cyclamen, rosemary, coriander, fir, and musk fragrances -- all from one amazing candle!