|
INTERIOR FASHION FOCUS
Asian Inspiration
Creating every day reminders of a special time of life.
by Heather Hyvare
When Frank and Mitzi Vikingstad purchased a new condominium, they began reminiscing of three years spent in Japan due to a job transfer nearly 20 years ago. With the help of designer Jeanne Johnson, Homestaging by Jeanne, the Vikingstads were able to blend their collection of Japanese sentiments with sleek, urban lines—reflective of the modern trends popular in downtown Minneapolis, MN.
Perched on the edge of the St. Croix River, serenity naturally spills inside the home through tranquil earth tones, faux wall finishes and authentic bamboo floors. In order to properly highlight the architectural features, Johnson relied on Warren Steven Window Fashions to implement her design strategy. Warren Steven supplied more than 19 Hunter Douglas Silhouette® window shadings and constructed various custom projects vital to the design.
TYING IT ALL IN
Vikingstad and Johnson fell in love with a print fabric displaying an Asian scene. The variety of colors would tie the kitchen, dining and living rooms together perfectly. Somehow, they wanted to incorporate a treatment using the elaborate fabric over the large windows in the living area.
Although challenging, the drapery workroom staff at Warren Steven enjoyed meeting with the designer and client to determine exactly which part of the very large, 43-inch vertical repeat to use on the front of the cornice boards. Once a section of the fabric was chosen, the workroom was able to create a seamless look by carefully pattern-matching each corner.
To continue emphasizing the Asian element throughout the home, special attention was given to all fabrics and details. A distinct black trim pops off the stationary drapery panels in the sitting area, adding to the Asian feel. The shower curtain was constructed using a hand-painted linen of traditional Japanese cranes. A soft, swagged drapery panel in the entry and simple valances in the kitchen suggest a casual elegance anyone can appreciate.
SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
Not only are the window treatments fashionable, but they are practical as well. The rich draperies in the master and spare bedrooms are equipped with motorization—and not just for convenience.
The spare bedroom accommodates the grandchildren and sometimes Grandma. Motorization eliminates cords for enhanced child safety and offers easy operation for a guest in a wheelchair.
“I’ve always designed my window treatments, but a lot goes on behind the scenes,” Johnson says. “It’s hard to be an expert with all the technical things; hardware, install, measure . . . but Warren Steven brings everything together for me. They are great to work with.”
Together, they produced an effective design that would touch the client each day. “As we look outside, the drapery and window treatments carry our thoughts back to Japan and the Far East, a very special time in our lives.” Mitzi Vikingstad said.
Heather Hyvare is the marketing assistant for Warren Steven Window Fashions, Minneapolis, MN; (612) 331-5939; www.warrensteven.com.
|
