Swingin' Style

Southern Living, Aug 2004 by Mercer, Amy Bickers

Wicker swings aren't just for front porches. Bring one inside for seating that's both comfortable and charming.

When this white swing lost its place of honor on a previous home's sun porch, it seemed destined for storage or to be given to charity. After all, there was no place for it at the new house.

Then homeowner Sharon Moore decided there was no reason it couldn't be moved indoors to add a fun element to her 8-year-old daughter's bedroom. Five years later, the swing still hangs securely from the ceiling, proof that outdoor furniture can have lasting appeal inside.

To hang the swing, the Moores attached two slats of wood at a perpendicular angle to the ceiling joists for added stability. Hung from the slats, the swing draws on the strength of several joists rather than putting its entire weight on one. The slats were painted to match the ceiling. "We held our breath for the first month or so," Sharon says, laughing. "We'd sit down very carefully, but it's never been a problem."

To protect the wall behind the swing, Sharon glued thick cording to the back of the piece. Besides preventing scuffs, the wine-colored fabric adds a pop of color in an unexpected place. AMY BICKERS MERCER

CRACKING THE COLOR CODE

Sharon throws convention to the wind not only when it comes to furnishings but also with bold color combinations. In this bedroom, she used a delicious mix of orange, red, and green. On the walls, stripes in two shades of green, simply outlined with a pencil and painted freehand, cool the warm red and orange tones found on the bedding, cabinet, and throw pillows. Decorative accessories, such as the playful fish attached to one of the swing's chains, help tie together the bold colors. The cushion and pillows on the swing introduce deeper shades of mustard and russet, allowing the dark rug to blend into the colorful space. The lesson: When it comes to colors, don't be afraid to have fun and mix them with abandon. Give the color wheel a spin.