"Home is a refuge for people in difficult emotional or economic times," says Becky Boswell Smith, editor-in-chief, Home Accents Today magazine, Greensboro, N.C. "People are choosing things that enrich the home and surrounding themselves with things that reflect their preferences and experiences."

Comfy chairs, sofas upholstered in cheerful fabrics, the warm glow of table lamps--all come together to create a cozy environment. And flowers are at the heart of this.

"In home accents, the theme of flowers in general is very strong," says Smith. "It is reflective of a longing to have the outdoors around us."

Fresh flowers add the decorative touches that transform a house into a comforting home. They need not be elaborately arranged to have their presence felt. Whether it is a lush bowl on a coffee table, or lustful handfuls of color in a jumble of containers on the mantle, fresh flowers soften the setting.

For fall 2002, floral designs are trending toward two definite styles, both easy for home designers to emulate. An emerging trend brings together very bright colors, such as orange and hot pink, in one bouquet, says Mieke Stap, a floral design expert based in Hillegom, Holland. This new, cutting edge style mixes very different types of flowers and even contrasting colors, such as orange, red and blue. The effect is stimulating and energetic.

Stylish one-color bouquets also continue to be a strong trend this fall, according to floral experts. These arrangements may contain just one flower type, or a mixture of flowers. The overall effect is tranquil and soothing.

In any style, bright green flowers or foliage can play an important part, intensifying the flower color. For example, gather clusters of flowers in buttery yellow and melon, or purple and blue, and insert yellow-green foliage. The green foliage will punch up the flower color and add texture.

The personal touch of homemade items will appeal to Americans this fall also, according to trend experts. For fresh flowers, wrap a colorful piece of fabric around a glass vase and secure it with a strand of ribbon. Dress up a glass jar or old vase with colorful beads or buttons, gluing them in place.