Blue Notes and Pink Tones

The 2012 York Show House

This year's Museums of Old York Show House – part of the Museums of Old York's annual fundraiser – certainly doesn't lack history. Originally home to Johnson Harmon's 17th-century riverside mansion, the land later went on to hold the Harmon House hotel in the mid-1800s. After that structure was torn down, it was replaced in 2000 by a rambling shingled home with a modern but traditional feel. Now, as the Museums of Old York Show House, it has been transformed again.

Nineteen designers from New Hampshire, Maine and Massachusetts set to work breathing new life into the storied home, leaving behind airy waterfront touches and classic New England beauty. Their work was opened to public tours in July, and it may just be the spark you need to get inspired to remodel your own space.

For Meredith Bohn of Meredith Bohn Interior Design in Hollis, the inspiration behind the master bed and bath design was all about atmosphere.

"I knew all along that I wanted to use soft blue and gray shades because I thought it related well to the river location," she says. "I wanted to take the view and make that the focus."

Relaxation, too, was at the forefront of Bohn's focus.

"I was trying to create a restful, spacious, elegant, yet relaxed ambiance," she says.

Indeed, that feeling of tranquility is something Bohn says all homeowners should aim for in a boudoir.

"Focus on soothing colors, and have things around that are restful and relaxing," she says. "And never underestimate the power of new, fresh pillows and sheets."

Bohn also suggests switching up the paint, artwork or furniture arrangement for a quick fix.

"Take a look at the placement of the bed or other furniture," she suggests. "Maybe you can change things around or use something from another room."

Georgie McGowan of Georgie's Home and Garden in York, the designer of the teen girl's bedroom, also knows the importance of furniture. Her inspiration for the room was simple: the bed.

"It was just a beautiful old mahogany bed that was painted white," she says. "When you look at it, it has this really fun, cheerful feel about it, so I really tried to work around the bed."

To give the room a fun "punch of color," McGowan painted the walls apple green and accented it with pops of pink. She says paint with impact is the place to start for any bedroom that needs re-doing.

"Decide on what color you love for the walls," she advises. "Pick your base color and then have fun accessorizing."

After painting, McGowan suggests going for small pieces that will make a statement, like bed linens, pillows and window treatments.

"It will change the whole look of the room without breaking the bank," she says.