Ways To Have Fun With Custom Fabric
Designers love taking on custom fabric projects because of their unique quality. “When you are done, you are left with a one of a kind look created just for you,” says designer Keri Feeney of Keri Feeney Home. “The possibilities are endless. You can really set the tone you envision in any room by combining all the elements beautifully!”
However, before diving into your custom fabric project, it’s important to keep a few key points in mind to ensure success, experts say. Read on to learn more about what you should consider before you order your fabric.
Carefully Consider a Piece’s Scale and Use
“It’s really important to think through the scale, and use of the custom piece in the space it is intended for to ensure you’re getting the full potential out of it,” designer Dawn Heuer of The Heuer Design Collective says of the customization process. A piece’s use will also affect the type of fabric you may wish to select. “Consider the purpose of the fabric,” notes designer Shamika Lynch of Maximizing Tiny. “Does it need to be machine washable because you have children that will mistake it for a napkin? Or maybe it will need to be wipeable/performance if it will be a headboard and you use oils in your hair that may transfer.”
Pay Close Attention to Fabric Design
There is more to a fabric than initially meets the eye. Ordering a custom swatch (Pepper makes this easy at just $3 a pop!) can be helpful to address any concerns ahead of time. “When working with fabrics used to customize furniture, I always consider all the elements, print, trim, frame, welt or stitching, and overall tone of the room,” Feeney shares. If your fabric features patterns, there’s even more to look at ahead of time. “Consider how you want your fabric to fall, especially for patterned fabrics,” Lynch notes. “If there are stripes, which orientation do you want the stripes to go in? If there is a pattern, what portion of the pattern do you want to be featured?”
Feeling ready to plan out a customization project of your own but wondering what type to try? Additional designers share their suggestions below!
Design a Dining Bench or Banquette
Designer Whitney Gelinas of Wit Interiors says that dining benches or banquettes are her favorite type of item to customize. That said, it’s key to be mindful about fabric type. “When making a banquette, it’s important to make sure you use performance fabrics so that one spill doesn’t ruin it for life,” she notes. “I also recommend something with a pattern in it so that it hides small stains.”
Design by Vintage Rose Home featuring Frida Pink fabric by the yard
Give A Special Heirloom Some New Life
Perhaps you’ve inherited a piece from a relative and want to incorporate it into your home (once it looks a little more contemporary, that is!). Custom fabric is an excellent solution. “It’s nice to upcycle something you already own,” says designer Pamela O’Brien of Pamela Hope Designs. “A favorite comfy chair or treasured family heirloom can be as good as new and match any design style with the right fabric selections.”
Design by Susanna Harbin Interiors featuring Frida Pink fabric by the yard
Tackle a Smaller Project, Like a Lampshade or Accent Pillow
Gelinas is also a proponent of customizing a smaller scale piece, like a pleated lampshade. This type of project is particularly ideal for the serial decorator. “It’s a great way to add some instant drama without a lot of commitment,” Gelinas says. “If you get tired of it in a few years you can always replace it but in the meantime it will add a lot of personality.”
Another smaller scale project to consider is a bold accent pillow. “It's a great way to introduce color into a room without a long-term commitment to that color palette,” says designer Alice Kuaban of Oddessence. “It is also usually less costly, since you don't need too many yards of fabric.”
Note That You Can Always Try a DIY
Looking to tackle a DIY? There are plenty of projects you can take on by yourself with a few basic materials and the fabric of your choosing. “Headboards, ottomans, and lampshades are easy, no-sew items anyone can upholster with a staple gun or glue,” says designer Katherine Thewlis of Hausmatter. “If you are just getting started with upholstery, consider a small drum shade,” she adds. “It adds a fun pop of color and pattern with little commitment.”
Ready to get started? Shop fabric by the yard!
Designing Livable Luxury…outside!
2023 Kips Bay Show House
We have had the privilege to work on numerous indoor projects, but designing an outdoor space has its own unique challenges and rewards. Here are some key points to consider when designing an outdoor space:
Start with a vision: Before diving into the details, it's important to have a clear vision of what you want to achieve with the space. Consider the purpose of the space and how it will be used. Will it be a space for relaxation or entertainment? Will it be a space for gardening or outdoor cooking?
Consider the layout: The layout of the outdoor space is crucial to creating a functional and attractive design. Determine the size and shape of the space and divide it into zones based on the intended use. For example, create a seating area, dining area, and a play area for children.
Choose the right materials: Outdoor spaces need to withstand the elements, so it's important to choose materials that are durable and weather-resistant. This includes materials such as wood, stone, metal, and outdoor fabrics.
Add lighting: Outdoor lighting can help set the mood and create a welcoming atmosphere. Consider adding string lights, lanterns, and even solar-powered lights to illuminate the space.
Incorporate natural elements: Outdoor spaces are the perfect opportunity to connect with nature. Consider adding plants, water features, and other natural elements to the space.
Add personal touches: Finally, don't forget to add personal touches to the space. This can be anything from decorative pillows to artwork to reflect your style and personality.
Designing an outdoor space can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it also requires careful planning and attention to detail. By considering these key points, you can create an outdoor space that is functional, beautiful, and truly your own.
Our Fundamental Principles of Design
Color: Choosing the right color scheme is essential in creating the mood and atmosphere you want in your space. Light colors can make a room feel more spacious, while darker colors can create a cozy atmosphere. Neutrals are versatile and can complement a variety of styles.
Scale and proportion: Furniture and decor should be proportional to the size of the room. Too many small pieces can make a room feel cluttered, while oversized pieces can make a room feel cramped. Balance is key!
Functionality: A space needs to be functional and practical. Think about how you will use the space and choose furniture and decor that will meet those needs. For example, if you work from home, you'll need a functional workspace.
Texture: Adding different textures can make a room feel more visually interesting. Mix and match textures to add depth and dimension to your space.
Lighting: Lighting can make or break a room. Natural light is always best, but if that's not an option, use different types of lighting to create the right mood. Ambient lighting provides overall illumination, while task lighting is focused on a specific area, such as a reading nook.
Balance: A well-designed space is balanced. This means that furniture and decor are arranged in a way that feels visually pleasing. Achieving balance can be done by arranging furniture symmetrically, or by creating an asymmetrical arrangement that still feels visually balanced.
By keeping these principles in mind, you can create a space that is functional, beautiful, and feels like home.
What Is ‘Feng Shui’?
As an interior designer, I often get asked the question, "how do I choose the right paint color?" The truth is, choosing the right paint color can make or break a room's aesthetic. It's important to take the time to consider all the factors before committing to a color. Here are some tips on how to choose the perfect paint color for your space:
Consider the room's purpose:
The first thing you need to consider is what the room will be used for. If it's a bedroom, you may want to go for a calming color like light blue or green. If it's a living room, you may want to choose a warm color like beige or light brown. Different colors can evoke different moods, so it's important to choose a color that matches the intended use of the room.
Take into account the lighting: Natural light can play a big role in how a paint color looks in a room. A color that looks great in one room may not look the same in another due to differences in lighting. It's important to test paint colors in different lighting conditions, both during the day and at night, to get a better idea of how the color will look in your space.
Consider the existing furniture and decor: Take a look at the furniture and decor you already have in the room. If you have a lot of bold and colorful pieces, you may want to choose a more neutral color for the walls. Alternatively, if you have a lot of neutral pieces, you may want to choose a bolder color to add some interest to the space.
Look for inspiration: Inspiration can come from anywhere, so take some time to look at magazines, Pinterest, or even nature to find a color that speaks to you. Create a mood board or save images of colors you like to help narrow down your choices.
Test the color: It's important to test the color before committing to it. Many hardware stores sell small sample jars of paint that you can use to test the color on your walls. It's also a good idea to paint a larger swatch of the color on the wall and see how it looks throughout the day in different lighting conditions.
Choosing the right paint color can be a daunting task, but by taking the time to consider all the factors, you can find the perfect color for your space. Remember, don't be afraid to experiment and have fun with color!
As a designer, I often get asked about ‘feng shui’ and how it can be incorporated into a home's design. Feng shui is a Chinese practice that aims to harmonize the flow of energy or "chi" in a space, promoting balance and prosperity. Here are some tips on how to incorporate feng shui into your home:
Clear the Clutter
The first step in creating good feng shui is to declutter your space. A cluttered home can disrupt the flow of energy and lead to feelings of stress and anxiety. Get rid of anything that you no longer need or use, and try to keep surfaces as clear as possible.
Create a Welcoming Entryway
The entryway of your home is where energy enters and exits, so it's important to create a welcoming space. Make sure the area is well-lit and clutter-free, and add some plants or artwork to make it feel more inviting.
Use Color Mindfully
Color plays an important role in feng shui, and different colors can have different effects on the energy in a space. For example, red is a powerful and passionate color that can stimulate energy and motivation, while blue is calming and can promote relaxation. When choosing colors for your home, consider the mood you want to create and how it will affect the energy in the room.
Place Furniture Strategically
The placement of furniture can also impact the flow of energy in a space. Make sure that furniture is arranged in a way that allows for easy movement and doesn't block any doorways or windows. Avoid placing furniture with sharp edges or angles in areas where people will be walking or sitting, as this can create negative energy.
Incorporate Natural Elements
Natural elements such as wood, stone, and water can help to balance the energy in a space. Consider incorporating these elements into your decor, such as a wooden coffee table or a water fountain. Plants are also an excellent way to bring nature indoors and promote positive energy.
Incorporating feng shui into your home can help to create a harmonious and balanced space that promotes health and prosperity. By following these tips, you can create a home that feels welcoming and nurturing for you and your family.
Happy Design Time!
How To Pick The Perfect Paint Color
As an interior designer, I often get asked the question, "how do I choose the right paint color?" The truth is, choosing the right paint color can make or break a room's aesthetic. It's important to take the time to consider all the factors before committing to a color. Here are some tips on how to choose the perfect paint color for your space:
Consider the room's purpose:
The first thing you need to consider is what the room will be used for. If it's a bedroom, you may want to go for a calming color like light blue or green. If it's a living room, you may want to choose a warm color like beige or light brown. Different colors can evoke different moods, so it's important to choose a color that matches the intended use of the room.
Take into account the lighting: Natural light can play a big role in how a paint color looks in a room. A color that looks great in one room may not look the same in another due to differences in lighting. It's important to test paint colors in different lighting conditions, both during the day and at night, to get a better idea of how the color will look in your space.
Consider the existing furniture and decor: Take a look at the furniture and decor you already have in the room. If you have a lot of bold and colorful pieces, you may want to choose a more neutral color for the walls. Alternatively, if you have a lot of neutral pieces, you may want to choose a bolder color to add some interest to the space.
Look for inspiration: Inspiration can come from anywhere, so take some time to look at magazines, Pinterest, or even nature to find a color that speaks to you. Create a mood board or save images of colors you like to help narrow down your choices.
Test the color: It's important to test the color before committing to it. Many hardware stores sell small sample jars of paint that you can use to test the color on your walls. It's also a good idea to paint a larger swatch of the color on the wall and see how it looks throughout the day in different lighting conditions.
Choosing the right paint color can be a daunting task, but by taking the time to consider all the factors, you can find the perfect color for your space. Remember, don't be afraid to experiment and have fun with color!
As an interior designer, I often get asked the question, "how do I choose the right paint color?" The truth is, choosing the right paint color can make or break a room's aesthetic. It's important to take the time to consider all the factors before committing to a color. Here are some tips on how to choose the perfect paint color for your space:
Consider the room's purpose: The first thing you need to consider is what the room will be used for. If it's a bedroom, you may want to go for a calming color like light blue or green. If it's a living room, you may want to choose a warm color like beige or light brown. Different colors can evoke different moods, so it's important to choose a color that matches the intended use of the room.
Take into account the lighting: Natural light can play a big role in how a paint color looks in a room. A color that looks great in one room may not look the same in another due to differences in lighting. It's important to test paint colors in different lighting conditions, both during the day and at night, to get a better idea of how the color will look in your space.
Consider the existing furniture and decor: Take a look at the furniture and decor you already have in the room. If you have a lot of bold and colorful pieces, you may want to choose a more neutral color for the walls. Alternatively, if you have a lot of neutral pieces, you may want to choose a bolder color to add some interest to the space.
Look for inspiration: Inspiration can come from anywhere, so take some time to look at magazines, Pinterest, or even nature to find a color that speaks to you. Create a mood board or save images of colors you like to help narrow down your choices.
Test the color: It's important to test the color before committing to it. Many hardware stores sell small sample jars of paint that you can use to test the color on your walls. It's also a good idea to paint a larger swatch of the color on the wall and see how it looks throughout the day in different lighting conditions.
Choosing the right paint color can be a daunting task, but by taking the time to consider all the factors, you can find the perfect color for your space. Remember, don't be afraid to experiment and have fun with color!