Unleash Your Home’s Personality with Dazzling Draperies
Do you yearn for a space that exudes warmth, character, and a touch of whimsy? Look no further than your windows, the often-overlooked gems that can truly transform a room. As an interior designer, I’ve had the privilege of working with countless clients to craft window treatments that inspire and delight. And let me tell you, the possibilities are as endless as your imagination.
Take, for instance, the British-inspired family room I designed for a client in Hudson. This space was a true blank canvas, long and expansive, just waiting to be filled with personality. My clients, a fun-loving family who had lived in England for a while, were open to all sorts of colors and patterns – a designer’s dream come true.
The before photos showed a room that was, well, a bit bland. But with a few strategic moves, we turned it into a cozy, inviting oasis that seamlessly blended their beloved British treasures with modern comforts.
The key? Draperies, my friends. Those humble fabric panels have the power to elevate a space from basic to brilliant. For this project, we opted for a stunning toile print with a Greek key-inspired trim – a nod to the clients’ affinity for all things Old World. But the fun didn’t stop there. We added a beautiful light blue drapery rod to create a delightful contrast against the darker walls, and topped it off with charming acorn finials that tied in perfectly with the high-back chesterfield chairs.
Embracing the Unexpected: Quirky Accents that Delight
Now, let’s talk about those accents. Because in my world, the devil is in the delightful details. Take, for instance, the French bulldog pillow that found its way into the design. You see, my clients had a furry friend of their own, and when I stumbled upon this playful pillow, I knew it had to be included. It’s those unexpected, whimsical touches that truly make a space come alive.
And speaking of unexpected, let’s not forget the custom lamp shade I designed specifically for this room. When the original lamp met an untimely demise (thanks to that oh-so-cute French bulldog), I knew I had to come up with something equally charming to replace it. The result? A one-of-a-kind shade that perfectly captured the English-inspired essence of the space.
But the real showstopper? The cheetah-print ottoman. Now, I know what you’re thinking – cheetah print in a British-style room? Blasphemy! But hear me out. My client, a self-proclaimed lover of animal prints, was thrilled with this bold, playful addition. And you know what? It works. The acrylic legs lend a contemporary flair, while the rich blue hue ties it all together seamlessly.
Weaving Together Treasures Old and New
One of the most rewarding aspects of this project was the opportunity to incorporate my clients’ beloved treasures – the vintage wool rug, the leather chesterfield chairs, the grandfather clock, and more. These pieces, collected during their time in England, held deep sentimental value and truly shaped the character of the space.
As the owner of a custom window treatment company in Philadelphia, I know the power of blending the old and the new. By seamlessly integrating their cherished belongings with carefully curated furnishings, we created a space that felt both timeless and fresh.
And let’s not forget the importance of those window treatments. As Lindsey Putzier, a true color expert, often says, “Drapes and art complete a room.” In this case, those stunning toile panels didn’t just frame the view; they elevated the entire space, adding a touch of whimsy and sophistication that truly set the tone.
Designing for Function and Flair
Of course, designing a space is about more than just pretty visuals. It’s about understanding how a family lives and creating a layout that caters to their needs. In this case, my clients had a growing brood, with three young children who loved to lounge on the floor and watch TV.
Enter the custom floor pillows, nestled within the antique wooden chest. Not only do they provide cozy seating for the little ones, but they also serve as a clever storage solution, keeping the space tidy and organized. It’s those small, thoughtful details that transform a house into a true home.
And let’s not forget about the practical considerations. The performance fabric on the oversized sofa ensures easy cleanability, perfect for a family with young kids (and a playful French bulldog). The vintage wool rug, with its mix of colors and patterns, is equally durable and forgiving, making it a dream for high-traffic areas.
Embracing the Unexpected
As an interior designer, I’ve learned that the most remarkable spaces are often the ones that embrace the unexpected. Whether it’s a bold cheetah-print ottoman or a quirky French bulldog pillow, the key is to have fun and let your personality shine through.
After all, as designer Ann Flanagan says, “It’s about keeping a very modern feel all while creating a cozy and inviting space.” And that’s precisely what we achieved in this British-inspired family room.
So, if you’re ready to unleash your home’s true personality, start with your windows. Embrace the whimsical, the unexpected, and the treasures that make your space truly your own. Because when it comes to interior design, the possibilities are as limitless as your imagination.
