My Design Secrets

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At first glance, a well-designed bedroom allows you to  just settle into the whole space.  The colors, the furniture and the tiny details all work togehter harmoniously.  Ahhhh, the cohesive loveliness!  But as a designer, my next step is to start breaking it all down… the bed, the pillows, the window treatments and lamp.  Why does it all work and how can I learn from this?  I want to help you develop the same critical eye because this is the difference between a so-so decorating job and a room that comes alive.

I designed the room above for two teenage girls about 10 years ago.  They liked feminine details but were growing up and did not want anything too cute.  They loved horses but did not want the whole room to go “horsey”.  It’s always a balancing act between “this” and “that.” So these are the steps I took to pull together this great little design without breaking the bank. 

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Color – We went with a warm peach because it was feminine, bright and fun.  It’s a more complex color than pink or purple which spoke to their sophisticated tastes (yes teenagers now have sophisticated taste!)

Beds – These iron beds are classic and budget-friendly.  The choice of many finishes allowed us to select one that tied in our coral, ivory and green palette.  (I don’t usually recommend iron beds for master bedrooms but for kids or guest rooms they do the job at a great price.)

Bedding- Custom bed-skirts and shams echo the colors with a designer look but we saved some money by using a matelasse coverlets.  These could easily be replace by down comforters and duvets when it gets cold.

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Some Ladder Tape options from Smith + Noble. Simple wood blinds step up the style with this designer touch.

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Windows - Simple 2″ wood blinds.  The big slats work with the scale of the large windows.  A color-coordinated ladder tape covers the strings that hold the blinds together (the ladder).  Now instead of plain old blinds that control light they ARE the window treatment.  Plus Ladder Tapes cover route holes so sunlight won’t poke through when blinds are closed.

Chair – We bought this wicker chair new but any old wicker chair can be painted for an instant face-lift.  You can also just wrap the fabric around the cushions and safety pin them on the back if you are a not a seamstress.

Lamps – Two simple and affordable lamps that could be found at a local home store.

Artwork – I love to use colorful and interesting artwork in kids rooms and posters are an easy answer. The pieces in this room are prints of famous horse paintings.  By going with more modern art, it gives the room a more updated feel and the white frames are simple and fresh.

I hope this helps you see, once again, that good design results is more than the sum of its parts.  Consider the look you want and then approach it one step at a time patiently and thoughtfully!

Let me know if I can help you with any design dilemmas by commenting below or contacting me here!

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I started My Design Secrets more than a year ago with one goal in mind:  Help people who love home decorating by giving them professional advice and easy access to the best online interior decorating sources.  After receiving a lot of wonderful feedback and learning that close to 100,000 people visted the database last year, I realized that My Secret Database was the answer to many of your decorating prayers!  So, I  was determined to continue sharing my interior design advice and resources.

A couple of months ago, I announced that we would be making some upgrades to the website.  Now, the time has come!  We wanted to make My Design Secrets even more useful, interesting, and fun for all of you decorating enthusiasts. (And for those of you who don’t know, my husband, Tim,  is the what turns “me” into “we”.)

So, here is what’s in store…

Improvements to My Secret Database *

The new database is PHENOMENAL.  When it comes to home decorating, My Secret Database blows any search engine out of the water.  Take that Google!  Here’s why: 

• Search through hundreds of online retailers for the product(s) you need and in the specific style you want.
• View a wide assortment of photos of specific products from the vendors in My Secrets Database. 
• Check out the the handy $-$$-$$$!  These icons will help you stay within your home decorating budget.

*While we wanted to keep doing all this for free, a girl has got to make a living!   With all these great new features, we are confident that you will recognize what a great value it is.  So starting this Wednesday at noon, My Secret Database is going to become a membership only site.  We are sure you will agree that the nominal charge of $9.95 per month is a fair price for access to this incredibly valuable, time-saving database.

Hot New Topics and Inside Tips in the Blog (Free)

The blog will continue to be free of charge and will offer my professional design tips as well as introductions to some of the hottest new decorating sources on the web.  I have lots of great ideas for new topics and, as always, you are welcome to make suggestions.  Feel free to search my existing blog entries covering over 350 decorating topics!

Great New Giveaways

We know you all love a Great Giveaway, so those are definitely going to continue.  We have some great ones lined up for high quality paint, gorgeous home furnishings, and fabulous interior decorating/design books.  And remember, your paid membership will automatically enter you into the giveaways.

Thank You…Thank You…Thank You

I have appreciated your support over the last year and sincerely hope that you will find these upgrades very helpful as you continue to put your personal decorating stamp on your home.

~ Lorrie

One of my favorite prints is Ocean Breezes. A more classic take on the brown and blue combo with both colors having a gently worn feeling.

My Design Secrets is the perfect outlet for my obsessive habit of collecting decorating sources.  Even with a busy design practice, and the homes of my friends and family, I still have overflowing amounts of advice and sources that are here for the taking!  Today I stumbled onto a site that makes me giddy.  Saffron Marigold carries exotic, handmade, eco-friendly bedding and linens that are bursting with gorgeous colors and good Karma to boot! 

A versatile tablecloth that goes from everyday to festive and then just throw it in the wash.

This black and white shower curtain lends some modern flair to this traditional paisley.

The owner, Anisha, is a girl after my own heart.  She has a Masters degree in Human Resources but her love of Indian Textiles was so overwhelming  that it led her to create Saffron Marigold.   It’s a small business run out of Petaluma, California that has a large heart that extends over the Indian Ocean and into Pune, India where the magic happens.  All of their products are hand-crafted according to traditional block printing techniques and each piece is an original work of art distinguished by the work of the artisan, the particular lot of dye, and even varying weather conditions.  They work with a couple of artisan studios with whom they have a close relationship.  They visit the studios to make sure they follow Fair Trade practices that Saffron Marigold values, as well as helping the craftspeople become more economically self-sufficient.

These white lace curtain panels are perfect for a soft touch that's a bit more sophisticated than most country curtains.

A 17" x 17" pillow cover is only $19.99. This is the most stylish sofa makeover bargain you are going to get!

With a broad selection of bedding, shower curtains, table linens, pillow covers, and sheer curtains you are sure to find something to spice up your home.  Cool blue and turquoise, spicy saffron and cinnamon, and breezy white on white. You can shop by the item or by prints with names like Lavender Dreams, Paisley Au Lait or Memories of Shalimar.  You will enjoy browsing the site and the fantastic prices are a wonderful bonus.

Enjoy!

~Lorrie

This Crewel Bench would make a beautiful accent in a foyer or hallway. I love the natural colors and nailhead trim.

Crewelwork is a very odd name for a particularly beautiful fabric.  This method of embroidery dates back at least 1,000 years; where it was used on tapestries.  Ususally crafted in wool, the embroidery stitches follow a pattern or outline that has been applied to the fabric with chalk, water soluble ink or iron-on designs.  Where does the word crewel come from?  Well, the exact origin is unknown but is thought to have come from an ancient word describing the curl in the wool used.

The crisp crewel accent pillow on top pairs nicely with other cotton prints.

An example of an intricate crewelwork pattern from the 1940's. You can really see the detail in the stitching.

Linen Source always manages to give you super affordable fashion. This tropically inspired King duvet cover is on sale for $34!

This traditional style of fabric was most often seen in interiors that featured more of a Jacobean motif (think castles, kings and ladies in waiting).  Over the years, it has resurfaced in more modern applications.  Lately, I have seen a lot of crewel work in light, bright patterns that are open and airy.  The detailed nature of crewelwork makes it interesting and adds nice texture to bedding, pillows and draperies.  Because it’s wool and raised off the surface of the fabric, it can be a little scratchy and not something you’d want touching your skin.  It’s best used on benches, chairs, throw pillows and bedspreads.  But not the ones you pull up to cuddle with.    

This tone-on-tone look from Williams Sonoma is a subtle and classic way to use crewel.

Layla Grace carries these crisp and refreshing drapery panels from Pine Cone Hill. A heavy fabric always looks lighter in bright tones.

I love this graphic print from Pottery Barn. A modern take on crewel.

Smith + Noble calls this their casual pleat. Crisp, neat and just grazing the floor.

I had to laugh out-loud when I read an article in the LA Times entitled “Bad Design Trends We Hope Die in 2009″.  There were 11 items ranging from cheap leather chairs to ornate gold frames and I can understand their point of view on most of them.  But designers are famous for being a little intolerant (without considering budgetary constraints) and when you tell people that they need to get rid of the granite countertops and stainless steel appliances in their two-year old kitchen, they might be a little miffed. 

But there a few low cost design trends that I would gladly usher out the door such as Item #3 on their list:  Heavy Drapery. 

Yes, you know who you are.  You have velvet or chenille clad windows that looked ”oh so chic” a couple of years ago.  Now they look heavy and sad.  So down comes the heavy drapery and what do you put in its place?  My choice would be classic pleated draperies.  Why?  Because they work for any style and never look dated.  Most people think of pinch pleat but there are many other styles:  tailored pleat, inverted pleat, or goblet pleat to name a few.  Depending on the fabric, they can go from traditional to modern in a flash.  You can add a little twist with custom hardware and great fabrics.  Or go with natural fibers such as silk or bamboo for an eco-friendly twist.  I promise there is a style out there that coordinates with your personal style and budget.

The Shade Store gives a good visual of the different types of pleats available.

I know a lot of people like shirred draperies but they need to be very full to look good.  So if you are buying them off the shelf, go for 3x the width to cover your space. (If you want the finished width to be 24″, then make sure you have 72″ wide panels).  Also, grommets have been done to death so I would avoid those.  What was once a cool industrial detail for more modern decor has become a predictable bore.

The Shade Store shows how a tailored pleat can look ultra modern.

So what should you look for in a Quality Pleated Drapery? 

•  Lining – quality draperies are always lined because it gives them shape and protects them from the sun.  It also gives you a bit more insulation.
• Fabric – Always get a sample or purchase draperies that can be returned.  Avoid flimsy or synthetic fabrics.
• Quality Workmanship – The hems should be neat and without stitch marks.  The pleats should also be lined so they stand up straight and crisp.

Pinch Pleat Draperies from Country Curtains show a more traditional look but make sure yours are a bit closer to the floor. These are insulated to keep your heating or cooling bill down.

There’s little doubt that you can find low-cost window treatments in most any store.  But  I would consider planning for the long term by spending a bit more on a classic style that will work for years to come.  Forget the trends, that is just good design! 

~ Lorrie

Win a $2oo VISA Gift Card!

Well, you guys have done it this time!  Our friend, Greg, over at The Shade Store was so pleased with your response to our Giveaway that he is upping the ante!  We started by giving away one $100 gift certificate.  Now we are adding:

 A second $100 Gift Certificate!  So now there will be 2 Winners!

In addition to all the wonderful Shades, Blinds and Draperies; their ETC. section carries some cool items that will add wonderful designer details to your home:

• Three styles of Cornices in custom sizes and fabrics
• Ready Made Drapery Panels at great prices.
• Designer Pulls to enhance the look of your shades and blinds.
• Drapery Tiebacks in styles ranging from Exotic to Modern
• Create your own Custom Throw Pillows starting from $45!

And as an Extra Bonus…

 15% off plus Free Shipping with the special

My Design Secrets Promo Code

(enter MYDESIGNSECRETS at checkout)

Questions?

Whether you have questions regarding measuring + installation or are looking for design assistance, their window treatment experts are ready to assist you!   Just email them at design@theshadestore.com or call 1.800.754.1455. 

So if you have not entered yet, then pop back over to The Shade Store Giveaway and enter!  Remember, it’s only one entry per person but now your chances have doubled!

You have until 11:59PM EST on Monday, February 9th to enter.  Two random winners will be chosen and announced soon after.

Good Luck!

~Lorrie

Win a $2oo VISA Gift Card!

The winners of this giveaway are:

Barbara Burt & Joanne Gustafson

Congratulations! 

Selecting the right window treatment solves so many problems.  It not only beautifies your room but it also provides insulation and privacy.  It also protects your furniture and rugs from fading.  But many of you are getting bored with the hum-drum selection at Home Depot and the local blind store.  And frankly, I don’t blame you!  Not only are the choices uninspiring but the quality is questionable and getting custom sizes is a hassle.  So where should you turn?  The Shade Store!

The Shade Store is a family business that has successfully served designers and the public for 60 years.  During that time they paid careful attention to what their customers were asking for and responded with:  

1. Wide Product Selection – Solar shades, woven woods, draperies, blinds, panel systems and much more.
2. Great Customer Service – You can call them, chat online or email them.  Their customer service people are fantastic and will help you measure, order samples and find the best product for your home.
3. Fast Service – Most styles ship in 10 days or less.  That’s impressive!

Right now The Shade Store is having their Winter Sale which includes 10% off and Free Shipping!

They make all their products in the USA and have a fantastic selection of eco-friendly products as well.  As a designer, I use The Shade Store because all these benefits make my job easy and my clients happy.  So whether your style is traditional, modern, or exotic; you will find the perfect window treatment for your room.  Their motto is “Custom, Made Simple” and that’s excatly how I like it! 

Ready to Cover Your Windows? 

The $100 Gift Certificate to The Shade Store is all yours. Just tell me why you need it!

Step 1:  Visit The Shade Store and shop around.

Step 2:  Leave me one comment below telling me what style you love and where you would use it.  If you are receiving this via email, go back to the site to enter.  Replies by email will not be accepted. 

One entry per person.  You have until 11:59PM EST on Monday, February 9th to enter.  Two random winners will be chosen and announced soon after.

Good Luck!

~Lorrie

Win a $2oo VISA Gift Card!

The Chris Madden Mix and Match Rod Collection from JCPenney has an unbelievably high-end look.

Honestly, I thought my job was going to be easy today.  The plan was to hunt down some ”hot drapery hardware options” (hence the title above) and pop them in here for you.  Boy, was I way off base!  I quickly found that there were some high-end options at Horchow but then it quickly dropped off into a boring parade of round wood finials and wimpy looking iron rods.  Can’t we do a little better than that?  I mean if you are going for the budget hardware, then go to Home Depot and be done with it.  But since I don’t give up that easily, I hunted further and honestly the best selection was found at 2 stores where you can shop online or in person:  Bed, Bath & Beyond and JCPenney.  Have a look!

The Wood & Metal Rod Collection from JCPenney in another wood/metal collection. This time with a modern flair.

The Linden Street® Globe 1" Rod Collection from JCPenney. The combination of metal and wood finishes is really sharp.

Ampersand™ Cube Brushed Nickel Decorative Window Hardware from Bed, Bath & Beyond has a telescoping rod for various window sizes and cool, square rings? (Can I still call them rings?)

Croscill Jefferson Decorative Window Hardware from Bed, Bath & Beyond; for those of you with a more formal style.

White sheers would look lovely on this graceful rod.

The Mother-of-Pearl or Bone Rod Collection from JCPenney would be perfect in a more feminine room.

From finials and rings to tassels and poles.  Accessorize your windows with creative, good quality hardware and it will last for years to come.

Shop for Window Hardware at JCPenney & Bed, Bath & Beyond!

~Lorrie

Click to Win Great Prizes!

Ask A Free Design Question!

Off the shelf or custom made?  When it’s time for a bedroom face-lift, sometimes it hard to figure out where your money is best spent.  With lots of options for ready-made bedding and window treatments, it can be tempting to go that route because it’s quicker and cheaper.  But is that really going to give you the look you desire?  Well, yes and no.  Even high-end designers use some items off the shelf.  On the other hand, certain items are worth the additional investment of going custom made.  Here are my best tips for incorporating both options. These will help you spend your money wisely while achieving the bedroom of your dreams.

Off the Shelf = Less $$$ Out of Your Pocket

Bedspreads, coverlets, comforters and duvets 

Any type of bed cover takes a lot of fabric, so this is definitely a chance to save big. The key here is the flexibility to make affordable changes from season to season and items that can be easily laundered.

Newgrange Matelasse from Linen Source is very affordable ($89 for a queen) and machine washable.

Designer Picks

• For warm weather months or climates - A matelasse coverlet or light quilt will do.  Linen Source seems to always have a great selection of washable matelasse covers on sale.
• For cold weather – Down or Hypo-allergenic comforter with a duvet cover is your best bet.  The Company Store has a broad offering of weights and duvet covers in many colors.

Decorative Pillows

Another place where custom is totally unnecessary. There are so many great places for designer pillows at half the cost of custom.

These four pillows came from the "Blue-Turquoise-Teal-Lavender" category.

Designer Picks

• European Squares (26″x26″) are much more stylish then queen size shams. And King size shams can get super awkward.
• Beautiful Pillows and Home offers collection by color so you can find items that are complementary but not to matchy-matchy!

Custom Made = Style Where It Counts

Window Treatments

While having a designer come to your home may be too costly, custom draperies ordered online are more affordable than you may think.  And adding custom details and beautiful hardware will make them show-stoppers.  Consider choosing a neutral tone drape that will transition nicely when you are ready to make a change.  And a good quality blind will work as a seamless partner. 

These pinch-pleat draperies from The Shade Store are bone-colored suede fabric with a terracotta edging. Classic and flexible.

Designer Pick

The Shade Store offers great options for blinds and draperies.  I would go with a neutral silk for simple elegance.  Woven Wood Shades offer great textural contrast.

Bed Skirt

An off-the-shelf bed skirt often fits like old pantyhose.  No matter how many times you tug and wiggle, it just doesn’t work.  Many people don’t want to spend the money because it’s far from the main attraction but I am telling you….IT IS WORTH IT.  I will repeat my mantra ad nauseum:  Good Design is in the Details!

Smith + Noble Bedskirt - Inverted Pleat in Linen/Natural (1622)

Designer Pick

Smith + Noble makes great custom bed skirts with lots of options and they help you measure so you get it right.  Go with tailored or pleated if your style is simple, ruffled if you like a softer look.  There are over 800 different fabrics to choose from!  Again, go with a neutral tone for longer-lasting style.  These will blow an un-lined, off-the-shelf bed skirt out of the water.

I hope these tips make it much easier for you to plan where to devote your decorating dollars in your brand new bedroom.  Enjoy your investment pieces for years to come and don’t hesitate to change it up with new pillows or artwork.  You will be amazed at the difference!

Click to Win Great Prizes!

Ask A Design Question!

I have walked into countless homes with gorgeous furniture, carefully selected wall colors, eye catching artwork and… NAKED WINDOWS!  What’s going on?  A few of my past posts have taken you step by step through the process of selecting the proper window treatment that enables you to strike the delicate balance of aesthetics and function.  I understand that a multi-step approach is not for everyone, so today let’s attack it from a different angle.  Let’s look at some simple curtains that are very easy to install.  Just measure, choose some hardware and the curtain style, and you are well on your way.

While blinds require precise measurement and mounting, curtains allow you a little more wiggle room.  As long as the curtain covers the window, you are pretty much in the clear.  Here are some measuring tips that will give off-the-shelf curtains a designer look.

Panel Height- If you want to add some drama to your room, choose a curtain panel that is higher than your actual window.  Take advantage of the space between the top of your window and the ceiling.  A few years ago it was difficult to find ready-made panels that were more than 84″ high.  Now I am seeing 108″ regularly and some up 120″.

Panel Width – This is a true designer secret.  To determine the width of your curtains, first take your window width and add at least 3″ to each side.  Then double that number to determine your width.  Ever notice that draperies in magazines never look skimpy?  This formula will give you a nice full, luxurious look. 

Example for a window that is 36″ wide: 

Add 3″ to each side:  36″ + 6″= 42″

Double that number:  42″ x 2 = 84″

So the total width of your drapery panels should be at least 84″ wide.  This is the total width of the pair.

You can take a peek here for some tips on selecting hardware.  And here is a short installation video.  The only thing I would add:  put the rings on the draperies and the draperies on the rod before determining your total height.

So please take down that skimpy, sheer swag and let’s dress up your windows and give them the dignity they deserve:-)

Shop for great curtains in My Secret Database!