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Design Solutions

Time for a Change

Updating fabric selections can turn a tired dˇcor into a fresh statement.

by Sharon L. Anderson

CHALLENGE: A client, whom I've worked with in the past, is now screaming for a change in his living room and family room. The current look is contemporary, using solid fabrics with textures. This look satisfied the client for about five years, but it is now time for a change. He wants "classy" and warm with a variation in pattern and personality. Window treatments for these rooms will include valances, tiebacks and rich two-inch wood blinds. Could you please help with some ideas for fabric and styles that would best suit the new look my client is after? SOLUTION: I can see your client's point of view, the contemporary look can become dull and drab in a living space that is seen on a daily basis if it lacks texture or some pattern. For a more classy look, check out the fabrics and colorways shown here in the accompanying photographs. The fabrics in these examples are from two collections by Duralee Fabrics Ltd. They would be excellent choices to use as a valance treatment over wood blinds, and some of them can be used to upholster furnishings. In the first photograph, starting on the left, is a coordinating woven upholstery pattern taken from The Paisley Print Collection. Next is Avenel Vine, a Jacobean floral made up of paisleys and paisley flower-like elements. The third pattern is Avenel Allover, a true paisley design that is dramatic in style. The pattern also makes it easy to cut for upholstering furniture. The last is Avenel Toss, a small tossed paisley design that was created to work throughout the collection. This design group will enhance any environment, but I think it would work especially well with wood blinds or the warmth of a wood paneled den where one can relax and enjoy the moment. The Avenel Group shown is featured in opulent Pompeian Red, but it is available in a multitude of colors. The second photograph shows the Safari collection. These fabrics are interpreted in lush chenilles, smooth satin weaves and a variety of other textures. The Safari collection incorporates a wide variety of design motifs from zebras to monkeys, elephants and giraffes. Some of the designs are woven with boucle yarns in order to give the patterns a truer feeling of authenticity. Animal and animal skin motifs are the trendiest design theme of the moment and are now, more than ever, seen as complementing traditional as well as contemporary room settings. These patterns are no longer viewed as ethnic and are quickly becoming part of every décor throughout the country. By using such exciting fabrics, your client is sure to be satisfied with his new look! Editor's Note: This is a continuing series of articles written by Sharon L. Anderson that will answer some of the many questions we receive at Draperies & Window Coverings as well as questions Anderson has encountered in her own business. If you have a question you would like Anderson to address, please send it to: Design Solutions c/o Draperies & Window Coverings 666 Dundee Rd., Ste. 807 Northbrook, IL 60062-2769 Fax: (847) 498-9299 E-mail: DesignSol@dwcdesignet.com Sharon L. Anderson has more than 20 years experience as a professional interior designer in both commercial and residential design. She has taught at numerous colleges throughout California and currently is an educator at Moorpark college in southern California. She is a published author and frequent public speaker.