I'm currently very drawn to all things timeworn, tattered in shades of creams and wheats and warm deep browns. The more tarnish and the deeper the patina on an item the better, I say. (Please excuse the lousy photo for this post. I couldn't get a good angle no matter how I tried) but this shows exactly what I am talking about.
Here is my vintage family tree wall in the corner of my dining room. My grand parents, parents, and me, all there in shades of creams, browns and blacks.(that's me, bottom left, holding my teddy bear) The shades are neutral and warm so it can go with any color scheme, and it adds a richness to the room I think. The simple black two dollar frames (some with matting) from the local grocery store several years ago tie things together perfectly, and add a slight tone of formality as well.
The idea would work with newer photos as well. All you need to do is make copies of your favorite pictures of the family or pets in blaack and white or sephia tones and you're good to go. Now, why not go take a walk around your home and look at the spots needing a little update for springtime?
I'm thinking if you've got a corner or a hallway needing a little personality, you might want to try this idea too.
