megan

Custom Pillows

Have you ever struggled with how to pull all the elements of a room together? Hint: Custom pillows can often be the answer.

Velvet and silk, decorative pillows in the corner of a leather sofa — Not only is the color perfect for the room, but the combination of silk and velvet enhance the richness and make the space so inviting. The silk pillow in silver is one of my favorites from Osborne & Little, simple, yet sophisticated.

Start with Your Inspiration

Choose the one thing in your room that you love, or you feel is your inspiration point. Use that as the guide for other soft goods like pillows to help create unity in your design.

For one customer, it started with a fabulous piece of art in the dining room of their Hillcrest condo. They wanted to add custom pillows to help pull all the colors and elements together. It’s not just about color, which is important, but the contrast of the rich velvet with the silver silk. The contrast works well to combine the color in the art to the luxurious elements of leather, metal and sleek lines that make up the room. Without the pillows, the room might feel cold with just a single punch of color from the art. The pillows bring life and warmth to the cool neutral palette.

Open plan living / dining combination showing pillows that pull in the art work from the dining room — These pillows help tie the elements of the rooms together, both with color and texture, creating and inviting, cohesive look.

Pillows Add a Visual Cue

The other way pillows work hard for your room’s design is as a visual cue for comfort. An invitation to sit down and relax. They tell your guests that you want them there. That you want them to make themselves at home and to engage with you. Home is your safe place, your respite from the world, a place to connect with family and friends. Adding simple design elements like pillows, can make the room seem unique and inviting, creating a sense of well being and calm.

Close up photo of a silver silk pillow on a living room chair — Nestled into a comfy chair, this pillow filled with feather and down creates an inviting spot to get comfy cozy.

Express Yourself

Pillows are also a great way to express your personal style throughout your home and bedrooms are no exception. A bed provides a great opportunity to layer in combinations of patterns, textures and sizes that a sofa or chair just don’t have the space for.

The Best Pillows

Pillows can be hardworking as well as visually appealing so keep this in mind when choosing the pillow form that goes inside the cover. Polyester is often used by furniture manufacturers as it’s inexpensive and looks good when it’s first delivered. However, the polyester will quickly flatten out and make the pillow look deflated. No amount of plumping will fix it.

The very best pillow forms are a combination of feather and down. These will last for years and only need to be plumped up to look fresh and new again. Because pillows are meant to be used, keep in mind the purpose when deciding on the feather / down combination. A typical combination is 10% down to 90% feathers. This gives a lot of softness that will be comfortable behind your back or under your head, but retain enough shape to be supportive. A combination of 25% down with 75% feathers will be very soft and luxurious but will require a lot more plumping as the down will settle easily and may not offer the support you need.

Pillows are like the jewels of your design scheme, and work in the same way the right accessory elevates an outfit. It may be a small thing but can make a powerful statement in the way it pulls everything together for a polished and cohesive look.

Myrna Everett is the founder of Home Vogue Interiors where we specialize in custom window fashions and other soft home goods. If you have enjoyed this blog post, please share it with others. If you are ready to start a conversation about your next project click on the “Your Project” button above and tell us what you’re working on and we’ll reach out to you and help you get started.

The Power of Pink

6:29 pm by megan Leave a Comment

Pink is not just for little girls. When you use pink in your design plans, the effect can be everything from sugary sweet, glamorous, bold or ethereal. It just depends on your style and the feeling you want to evoke. Never underestimate the power of pink in a design scheme.

A flat-lay showing fabrics, trimmings and plants in shades of pink, ,natural, blue and green — This soothing palette from Stout Brother’s Textiles is a wonderful example of how to use a pink palette in design.

I love this flat-lay from Stout Brother’s, it’s a great example of layering pink into a color scheme. In this case it’s used to create a casual, feminine and somewhat earthy feel that is very soothing.

Little Girl Pink

Everyone is familiar with the intense pink little girls often love. I was once asked to do pink window treatments for a little girl’s room. This is what it must be like inside a piece of bubble gum, but she adored it! And since the client is always right – I adored it too!

A little girl's room with every wall and ceiling painted bubble gum pink with a lively window treatment featuring pink and white gingham and white sheers — Custom valances, drapes and sheers fit for a pink-loving princess!

Grown Up Girl Pink

If you are going for a more glamorous vibe, you’ll want to tone it down to a subtle blush. Add lots of white and mirrored or glass surfaces for a very sophisticated version of pink. Click the photo to see this over-the-top glam bedroom and get an eye-full of pink that is all grown up.

Glamorous, blush pink bedroom with white furnishings and over the top details. — This unique bedroom featuring the palest of pinks was featured at www.home-designing.com

Going Dramatic With Pink

Another trend we’ve been seeing lately, is pink being used in very dramatic ways like this handmade peony wallpaper from England. I love how they used it here to create a bold look with a vintage feel. It would also be great in a powder room to make a big statement in a small space.

Bathroom with claw foot tub in turquoise and dramatic black and peony wallpaper — This bathroom really shines with its dramatic peonies against a black background.

Domus Venus, is one of my favorite designers. She manages to use pink without making it feel too “precious” as you can see in the two rooms below. The soft pink curtains and rose colored crown molding create a wonderful contrast to the giant mural that dominates one wall.

Dining room with pink drapes and crown molding, and dramatic mural of a woman filling the whole wall. — This dining room designed by Domus Venus is sophisticated and dramatic, proves one more way to use pink that is anything but “little girl”.

In the second photo, she uses a framed wallpaper mural that would normally be considered very feminine. In this case, it creates a dramatic impact through the sheer size and depth of the image.

Giant peonies with a gold framed hung above a simply made bed. — Giant peonies are anything but “sweet” in this huge piece of art.

Pink is on trend right now and it’s fun to see how using it in different ways can create such different effects. Just remember, no matter your color scheme, you can create a dreamy, soft look or make a bold statement by changing up the intensity of color and the scale of pattern you choose to use.

Designing for a Baby’s Room

8:00 am by megan Leave a Comment

My projects always start with a result in mind and the journey always requires creativity and sometimes a bit of engineering. This was the case in a project I did recently with Dana Massey, a brilliant designer from The Dana Touch. I always know it’s going to be an interesting project when I get a call from her. This time, we were designing for a baby’s room – how fun is that!

Dana always has a complex vision of window treatments for her projects and assumes I can make it happen. So far, I have a 100% track record! The baby’s room we worked on recently was no exception! She had the idea to add ombre linen side panels to the one large window in the room. It already had shutters, so she wanted something feminine but not too babyish. Her color scheme was shades of mauve and a vision of curvy drapery rods left and right of the shutters.

Getting Creative for a Baby’s Room

This was the color palette and design inspiration for the room. Not precious and babyish, but sophisticated with lots of whimsical touches to make it feel young and fresh.

Concept photo showing the planned furnishings, draperies and wallpaper for this new baby's room — Here is a working model of mood board, laid out on the floor of the baby’s room to get the creative juices flowing! My favorite part was the ombre linen from Stroheim Fabrics, such a departure from the typical little girl pink, but still feminine.

Finding Inspiration

The color scheme was set, the fabric, paint and wallpaper selected, all that was left was the drapery hardware. The sophisticated palette and materials being used called for something glamorous and I had the perfect thing – crystal finials!

Crystal finial — Helser Brother’s has a wonderful line of drapery hardware and exceptional finial selection.

With that decided, we moved on to the job of creating the perfect curve. In the end, we used a piece of cording to manipulate our design idea into a pleasing shape. One that was not too snake like but not too flat. From there we were able to figure out exactly where the brackets should go so they were hidden but able to support the weight of the finial and drapery panels. Then it was up to the fabricator to bend our new creation into shape.

Engineering

Curved drapery hardware is used when we need a curtain to follow the curves of a room or accommodate corners or bay windows with fully functioning draperies. Typically, we are working with a gentle curve for a bank of bow windows or a 90-degree corner. What Dana was asking for was a curved rod over a very short span. Fabricators of bent rods always require full-scale templates; we usually create these by using the existing curve. In this case, the curve was inside the designer’s head! It took numerous sketches and a bit of string to get it out of her head and onto paper.

Installation Day

The best part of my job is how it all comes together on installation day. All the creativity, inspiration and problem solving finally come together as the installer, who has the hardest job in my opinion, makes it look effortless as he patiently waits for us to decide exactly how high the rod should be, how close to the shutter the panel should fall etc. And then he does his magic as he secures the hardware and dresses in the new curtains to make them hang “just so” ready for the big reveal.

Close up photo of the finished drapery rod with it's elegant curve and crystal finial. — Here is a close up of the finished hardware.

Floating shelves, art work, accessories and picture frames add the finishing touch. — Other finishing touches to create a sweet retreat for the new baby girl. I love the empty picture frames just waiting for the new arrival to make her debut!

Window treatments are an important part of interior design helping all the elements in a room come together in a cohesive way. Whether it’s a simple project like the one we designed for a baby’s room or a challenging one, creativity, engineering and inspiration are all involved to ensure a successful installation every time.

All that Glitters

2:39 pm by megan Leave a Comment

“All that Glitters” Definitely has a Place in Interior Design

Pale gray silk drapery panel embellished with Swarovski crystals — My client actually said “I’m going to be buried with these drapes!”. It makes me happy when my client is happy and I really love them too! I understood her vision and had fun finding this fabric to create these Swarovski, crystal encrusted draperies. “All that glitters” – it’s a thing!

Fabric and Trim

I know this style is not for everyone, but if your jam is to always add a little more sparkle and shine to everything you touch, consider all the ways you can make that happen in your home. Practically every type of textile can be found with a bit of sparkle. Bead trims, metallic banding, fabrics all pull off the look effortlessly. Use it to make pillows, drapery and bedding pop.

Drapery Hardware

I often use drapery hardware as another great way to add extra sparkle. It can be as simple as using a polished chrome or brushed gold finish. Sometimes I mix metal with acrylic rods for an old Hollywood glam feel. When I want to go really luxe, I take it to the next level with crystal encrusted finials.

Wallpaper that Glitters

Another way to make a room feel truly glamorous is wallpaper. There are so many gorgeous papers out there that can add depth to a room with their subtle sheen or metallic touches. Phillip Jeffries is one of my favorites suppliers with collections of wallpaper for every style and taste. Here are three of my favorites; Enchanted Woods made of cork with metal undertones randomly highlighting the low spots. Quartz with it’s textured feel and subtle sheen in gorgeous shades from ivory to charcoal. And finally, The Metaluxe II collection has a metallic ombre design on grass cloth for a very unique look.

Phillip Jeffries Metaluxe II wallpaper collection — Phillip Jeffries Wallpaper Company is one of my favorites! This Metaluxe II collection has a unique take on “glitter” that is unusual and sophisticated.

Phillip Jeffries wallpaper collection called Enchanted Woods — Natural cork with an undertone of metallic in the back ground adds a little glitter in the best possible way with this elegant wallpaper.

Phillip Jeffries Quartz collection of wall coverings — Phillip Jeffries does it again with this mother-of-pearl style wall paper in every color from ivory to charcoal.

Add a little extra luxury into your home.

Use a little, or use a lot, but I promise you will love the compliments you get when you add a little glitter and the way it will make your home feel somehow more “you”.

Shades that are Good For Our Beaches

2:35 pm by megan Leave a Comment

A Window Shade Made from Recovered Shoreline Plastic

Although I love custom draperies, sometimes a simple solar shade is all that’s needed to control heat, UV rays or block the sun. When that’s the case, I always turn to Hunter Douglas. I’ve always been a big fan of their window shades because they are so fashion forward and very innovative with their products.

Now they have done it again. I was thrilled when Hunter Douglas introduced a new sample book in 2020 and discovered they had created “GreenScreen Sea-Tex”. Screen shades are simply roller shades that provide shade, heat control and UV protection all without blocking your view. What makes the GreenScreen Sea-Tex special is that it is made from plastics that have been discarded and wash up on our world’s beaches endangering the lives and habitats of sea creatures.

Good For Your Windows

Good For Our Beaches

A screen shade in an office window asking the question "How much is in it" referring to how shoreline plastic is recovered and repurposed to make our shades — These shades are made from plastics recovered from our beaches by volunteer communities around the world.

These shades are made from plastics recovered from our beaches by volunteer communities around the world.

From the front of my sample book I learned that over 9 million tons of plastic waste are dumped into the world’s oceans each year. Hunter Douglas is part of a program that reclaims tons of plastic washed ashore and recycles it into something new.

Solar shades have been popular for many years, especially here in San Diego with our sunny days and extra big windows. And now the solution to protect our homes without compromising our views just go better…and so did our beaches!

Motorized Window Coverings

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Everything you Need to Know About Motorized Window Coverings

The beauty of Silhouette shades combines with the room darkening properties of a roller shade all at the touch of a button.

Have you ever wished you could open your bedroom drapes to see a beautiful morning unfold without getting out of bed? Or perhaps the drapes are heavy, and you wish you could just pick up a remote to open and close them. Or maybe, the amount of time it takes to open and close all your window coverings each morning and night is what’s making you crazy. It’s a simple fix with motorized window coverings!

Post Construction Motorization

If you’re wishing for motorized window coverings but not planning a remodel, you probably don’t want to hire an electrician. It will be messy, disruptive and expensive, not to mention, completely unnecessary.

Motorized Draperies

Fortunately, motorizing window coverings without the need of an electrician is easy. For draperies, all you need is a new motorized drapery rod. The plug-and-play style allows you to select which side the motor is located on. In most cases an outlet is nearby, and we supply a power cord the appropriate length to reach it. The installer simply plugs it in, hangs the drapes and programs the remote. In most cases the motor and power cord are hidden behind the draperies so there is rarely any visible evidence. Just a clean look and an easy-to-use remote control that can be hand held, wall mounted, or both. There is a beautiful range of motorized hardware available that can be designed to suit nearly any style or situation.

Motorized Blinds and Shades

Motorized shades are a different story, but still straight forward and usually electrician free. Most shades are light enough to operate with just a battery powered motor. Most blinds cannot be retrofit, so you’ll want to select new shades that come with motors. The variety available is amazing and it’s worth exploring all the options. The good news about battery operated blinds is that many manufacturers now offer rechargeable batteries. This is great for both the environment and your pocketbook since old-style battery wands required 8 – 12 batteries. With rechargeable, you simply connect the battery charger and two hours later your blind is good for another year. The photos below show some of our favorite Hunter Douglas shades. Most of these shades can be motorized and controlled through your smart phone, tablet or a handheld remote.

Almost any shade can be automated with AA or rechargeable batteries – no electrician required!

This bathroom with Hunter Douglas banded shades provide privacy and great design with a feature that allows them to roll open for some view and great design or roll closed for complete privacy. — Hunter Douglas banded shades come in pretty patterns or straight lines depending on your design aesthetic and provide view or privacy with the click of a button.

Living room overlooking the ocean with Silhouette shades from Hunter Douglas spanning a large expanse of glass. — Silhouette shades from Hunter Douglas provide day time views plus protection from damaging UV rays. When the singes down the floating louvers close to provide complete privacy.

Luminette shades are today’s answer to vertical blinds. Contemporary styling, soft sheer fabric to provide UV protection combined with the functionality of a vertical blind. But oh so much more sophisticated!

Contemporary room with leather longer and a top down bottom up Duette cellular shade in the window and a Vertical shade to match on the sliding glass door. — How to treat a window and a door in the same room? A tope down bottom up Duette shade and Vertiglide, all from Hunter Douglas for optimal light, view and privacy.

Cellular window coverings on doors and windows. — Hunter Douglas’s Duette shade is one of the most innovative products providing all the options for light control, privacy and amazing insulating qualities.

Motorized window coverings with soft sheers surrounding each window and a dog with his paws on the sill looking out. — Banded shades and pretty sheer drapery panels make a pretty pairing.

I-pad and Pebble remote control for operating motorized window coverings on a timer — I-pad and Pebble remote control for operating shades on a timer and so much more, with the ability to override preprogrammed operations with a simple remote control.

Pre Construction

If you are starting a remodel or a new build, I recommend considering your window covering options now. I encourage my clients to involve me as soon as possible, preferably in the planning stages. This ensures we can plan for the right kind of wiring and appropriate window depths. It also eliminates change orders as my team can advise on the correct wire placement at each window. Both are critical to a successful installation once the walls are buttoned up.

When to Call Your Window Treatment Professional

Aside from getting the motorization portion done right, there are other areas I can help plan for window coverings. Reviewing your floorplan to discuss what window coverings you need, allows me to make suggestions ensuring they have the best opportunity to fit and function properly. The planning stage is a perfect time to consider things like recessed pockets for shades to disappear into when not in use. Or having drapery hardware installed flush with the ceiling for a very modern look. Adjustments can be made during the planning stage, but waiting until your contractor is nearing completion, may mean compromising on style or functionality.

A Great Example

This rendering was sent to me by an interior designer prior to construction. It is a good example of how pre-planning for window coverings creates opportunities to make adjustments for a better installation. In this case, she wanted draperies on the sliding glass door but didn’t think about how it would impact the bookcase. Also, the ability to access the cabinet at the bottom was going to me challenging at best. I suggested slight plan change to add a recessed area on the left side of the built-in. This allowed the draperies to tuck in beside it rather than in front of it. Other options could have been considered, but the key was in planning to avoid compromising style or function upon completion of construction.