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Genevieve Gorder
The Barefoot Contessa "Funkifies" Home Design By Suzy Feine
GG: I always keep an eye on fashion. Clothing dictates what will happen in the home in terms of fabric. Linens are hot in Italy right now. So is chunky, gold jewelry which translates to the home as bold accents. Store window displays don't inspire me, landscape does. I get great inspiration from the lavender and wheat fields of Europe.
iP: What's the easiest way for homeowners to incorporate the design trends of Europe into their surroundings?
GG: Travel. Traveling opens the mind and reawakens different parts of the brain that are asleep. When you travel, find sensual items that give you a feeling of other places, listen to different music, get the essence of other countries. This will allow your paintbrush to move easier. Americans have a tendency to be afraid of bold design. People don't go all the way with their designs. Design doesn't discriminate; color is forgivable. Don't be afraid to try something new, experiment with new colors, and if you're going to redecorate do it all the way.
iP: Besides a new line of blue jeans and greeting cards, what great things can consumers expect from you in the next year?
GG: I would really like to create a new line of home decorating fabrics. I'd also like to start branding a line of home furnishing products, starting with textiles. These are the areas I'll be focusing on in the immediate future. 
