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| I hope that you have enjoyed your Newsletter and have benefited from the information provided. Please feel free to pass this information along to your friends and family members to also help them with their interior décor projects. We also invite you to browse our website. We have a great selection of upholstered wall panels that can work in any decor. We welcome your comments and suggestions and hope that you enjoy this great summer season. Regards, Connie Beland / Owner If you enjoyed receiving our Design Newsletter or special offer notices, please tell your friends and co-workers. They can sign up by sending a blank email to: optin@upholsteredwallhuggers.com or by visiting our website and submitting their information online. Be sure to whitelist our websites above Upholsteredwallhuggers.com to make sure your copy does not get thrown in your junk mail folder. |
October 2008 Design Newsletter
Welcome to our October 2008 Newsletter from Wall Huggers
In this issue we will discuss Bedroom Design Don'ts.
Ten typical mistakes people make when designing a bedroom — and how to avoid them.
Even the most decorated houses often have a dirty little secret: a dull and dreary (or cluttered and chaotic) bedroom. Because
it's a private space, this room is sometimes the last to get our decorating attention, making it the poor stepchild to the rest of
our lovingly designed abode.
Neglecting to make the boudoir something special is mistake number one, interior designers say. This is a place you should
love to spend time in, an indulgent oasis and welcoming haven from the stresses of the day. The bedroom should not be
overlooked; in fact, it should be the best room in the house. You deserve to come home to a beautiful, relaxing space where
you can close the door to the world.
1. Don't Go Color Crazy
Don't get us wrong — color is a powerful design tool, and should absolutely be used in the bedroom. But experts advise opting
for restful shades and a soothing, monochromatic palate to keep the mood subdued. Soft greens, blues and lavenders create a
feeling of calmness and serenity, while rich, lush hues like persimmon, brown and amber envelop you in cozy warmth.
But save the bright reds, yellows and oranges for other rooms. Anything too vibrant will distract from the relaxing feeling you're
trying to create. Use toned-down versions of your favourite colors in the bedroom. That might mean choosing mauve instead
of eggplant, or pumpkin instead of tangerine.
2. Don't Overlook the Ceiling
Do you see a bland, blank surface as you lie in bed gazing up at the ceiling? If so, you're not alone. Everyone ignores the
ceiling. Instead, make it a celebrated space by adding eye-catching detail, subtle pattern or soft color. A good trick is to paint
the ceiling a slightly lighter version of the wall color. Ask the paint store to knock down the color 20 percent for the ceiling.
Besides dressing it up, color visually lowers the ceiling and gives the space a feeling of comfort and intimacy.
You could also stencil or wallpaper the ceiling, add architectural elements in the form of beams or mouldings or use a
decorative paint treatment. Other options for adding interest to the "fifth wall": Torchieres and up lights that wash the ceiling
with warm pools of light; a canopy or tented bed that ensconces you in warmth and comfort as well as bringing color, pattern
and texture to the surface above you; and an intricate medallion and sparkling chandelier that add to the room's ambiance and
create a focal point.
3. Don't Choose Out-of-Scale Furniture
Another common problem that designers often correct is bedroom furniture that doesn't fit the space's size. Unless your
bedroom is huge, over-scaled furniture is a mistake. If your ceilings are only eight feet high, for instance, opt for a low
headboard instead of a four-poster that reaches for the rafters (and dwarfs the room).
Too-small furnishings can be a problem as well, getting lost in a large space and falling short on functionality. Beds keep
getting taller, and nightstands need to be taller, too, so you don't fall out of bed when you reach for a sip of water in the middle
of the night. Before buying furniture, make a simple, to-scale sketch of your bedroom as well as paper cut-outs of the
furnishings you're considering. That way, you can be sure ahead of time that everything fits and that the scale of various pieces
complements each other.
4. Don't Skimp on Storage
When you picture a private sanctuary, do you envision piles of newspapers and drawers too stuffed to shut properly? We didn't
think so. Clutter equals stress, so the bedroom should be clutter-free. The key element for creating a no-clutter zone: good
storage.
Having a place to stash everything imparts a sense of calmness and order, so integrate hidden storage wherever you can:
Instead of puny bedside tables, choose generously sized nightstands with drawers or doors that let you hide books, magazines,
reading glasses, lotion and other sundry items out of sight, but within easy reach. In fact, small dressers on either side of the
bed serve the same function as nightstands, but have much more storage space.
Opt for a trunk or a storage bench at the foot of the bed to conceal extra bedding and throw pillows when they're not in use.
Consider a bed with slide-out drawers underneath. Some clever new models even have mattresses that lift to reveal a large
storage cavity.
And though it can be pricey, a built-in closet system will utilize every inch of potential storage in that space, helping you keep
clothing chaos contained and out of the bedroom proper.
If new furniture or a closet re-do aren't in the budget right now, storage boxes that slip under the bed and are hidden by a dust
ruffle are a good solution.
5. Don't Overcrowd It
Having to navigate an obstacle course of furniture to get to the closet, or sharing the bedroom with an abundance of dusty
accessories are not elements that lend themselves to the tranquil, soothing vibe you're trying to create. Instead, keep the
bedroom simple and serene. Remember: The look you're going for is beautifully spare, subtly sophisticated and elegantly
understated.
For smaller bedrooms, use only the furniture you absolutely need: A bed, nightstands, maybe a cozy chair and a small side
table. Put your dresser in the closet so it doesn't take up valuable space in the bedroom. When placing furniture, make sure to
leave at least three feet between the bed and walls or tall pieces, such as armoires, and at least two feet between the bed and
low furniture like tables and dressers. Do your best to keep traffic paths in the room unobstructed, too — if you have to circle
around the bed to get from the bathroom to the closet, for instance, you may want to consider repositioning the bed.
When it comes to tchotchkes in this space, less is definitely more. A lot of people over-accessorize in the bedroom. Be really
judicious with accessories — one great piece of art and a few simple accents are all you need. And make sure that accessories
work with the style and theme of the room. That means simple, minimal accessories in a modern bedroom, and maybe a
beautiful seashell or two in a coastal- or beach-themed space. You may want to also stay away from heavily tasselled, fringed
and gathered window treatments and pillows which can be visually disturbing.
6. Don't Forget a Cozy Sitting Spot
A quiet place to sit and read — or to sip your morning tea while you gaze out the window — is a wonderful gift to yourself. If the
space in your bedroom allows, tuck a cushy armchair and footrest (or a pair, if you can fit them), a small table and a reading lamp
into an unused corner or at the foot of your bed to create a reading or sitting area.
Not enough room? Window seats save floor space and make the most of natural light and views, so consider a built-in bench
under the bedroom window. I would recommend an upholstered headboard to make the bed more comfortable for sitting up. At
the very least, put a bench at the end of the bed so you have a place to sit down and untie your shoes.
7. Don't Leave Yourself in the Dark
A single, glaring overhead light creates harsh shadows and doesn't do much to help you see what's in dresser drawers or make
out the words in the book you're trying to read. A light mounted from the center of the ceiling is, after all, directing light behind
the place you need it to, plus, the down light casts under-eye shadows that would make even Gisele Bündchen look bad.
Instead, layer lighting throughout the room. In a bedroom, just as in any other space, you need ambient (general, ceiling-
mounted) lighting to illuminate the entire room; task lighting (on bedside tables and vanities) to provide focused light for
reading and other activities; and accent lighting (in the form of wall sconces, torchieres or art lights) to add drama, wash the
room in soft illumination and lend a cozy, welcoming vibe. Lights at different levels and in different areas create a mood that's
pleasing and romantic.
Make sure lighting is adjustable, too: Bedside lamps with pivoting arms let you direct light exactly where you need it. Dimmers
allow you to adjust wattage depending on the time of day and the mood you want. And having lights on separate switches lets
you customize the level of illumination; you can turn on lights in just one area of the room without fear of waking your
slumbering mate.
8. Don't Forget to Indulge in Luxurious Linens
The bedroom, more than any other space in your home, should be a tactile and sensual wonderland. We spend a third of our
lives in bed — we might as well do it in luxury. Outfit yours with textiles: Adorn the bed with plush pillows, sumptuous sheets,
cozy covers and oh-so-touchable throws that make it a place you can't wait to melt into at night.
When it comes to sheets, designers are unanimous in their preference for natural fibres like cotton (don't settle for less than
100 percent) or linen, and for high thread counts (aim for 350 or more). Synthetic fabrics don't breathe. Satin sheets may look
great in movies, but they have two problems: They make you sweat like crazy and slide off the bed.
Tactile wall coverings and textured curtain panels add to the sensual feeling in a bedroom.
Bedding isn't the only place for tactile treats in the bedroom: Drape a sinfully soft cashmere throw over the arm of your reading
chair; upholster the walls with fabric or textured wallpaper; hang silk sheers or substantial curtains from a canopy bed; and
create a soft landing by placing a plush rug at your bedside or by splurging on soft, natural-fibre carpeting for the bedroom.
9. Don't Short change Windows
What's standard issue in even the cheapest motel rooms, yet usually overlooked in our own bedrooms? Blackout window
treatments. Thin curtains that let the rising sun peel your eyes open at first light or poorly sized shades or blinds that allow light
to seep in around the edges don't allow for that most decadent of weekend indulgences: sleeping in. Instead, designers say,
choose curtains or shades with sewn-in blackout linings, or opt for thicker, more opaque fabrics that block the sun's glare
when you need them to but can be swept aside or pulled up when you want natural light to pour in. If you like the look of gauzy,
transparent curtains that filter light and billow in the breeze, pair them with opaque roller blinds that can be pulled down to
maintain privacy at night and to block morning light.
Another advantage of a beautifully dressed window is that drapes frame the window and the view and offer another opportunity
to incorporate texture, color, pattern and softness into the room.
10. Don't Bring the Everyday Into the Bedroom
A beeping cell phone; the ping of incoming e-mail; exercise equipment that seems to stare at you in silent judgment; and the
drone of the nightly news turn the bedroom into yet another space where you have things to accomplish and responsibilities to
fulfill. So check your cell phone, pager and PDA at the bedroom door. While you're at it, banish your treadmill, laptop and work
files. Consider moving out the TV, too. The less you can plug in, the better. The only things that should be going on in the
bedroom are reading, sleeping and romance.
Be vigilant about keeping out these nagging reminders of the outside world, and you'll create
a cherished place to relax and renew. In other words, a true sanctuary.
Welcome to our October 2008 Newsletter from Wall Huggers
In this issue we will discuss Bedroom Design Don'ts.
Ten typical mistakes people make when designing a bedroom — and how to avoid them.
Even the most decorated houses often have a dirty little secret: a dull and dreary (or cluttered and chaotic) bedroom. Because
it's a private space, this room is sometimes the last to get our decorating attention, making it the poor stepchild to the rest of
our lovingly designed abode.
Neglecting to make the boudoir something special is mistake number one, interior designers say. This is a place you should
love to spend time in, an indulgent oasis and welcoming haven from the stresses of the day. The bedroom should not be
overlooked; in fact, it should be the best room in the house. You deserve to come home to a beautiful, relaxing space where
you can close the door to the world.
1. Don't Go Color Crazy
Don't get us wrong — color is a powerful design tool, and should absolutely be used in the bedroom. But experts advise opting
for restful shades and a soothing, monochromatic palate to keep the mood subdued. Soft greens, blues and lavenders create a
feeling of calmness and serenity, while rich, lush hues like persimmon, brown and amber envelop you in cozy warmth.
But save the bright reds, yellows and oranges for other rooms. Anything too vibrant will distract from the relaxing feeling you're
trying to create. Use toned-down versions of your favourite colors in the bedroom. That might mean choosing mauve instead
of eggplant, or pumpkin instead of tangerine.
2. Don't Overlook the Ceiling
Do you see a bland, blank surface as you lie in bed gazing up at the ceiling? If so, you're not alone. Everyone ignores the
ceiling. Instead, make it a celebrated space by adding eye-catching detail, subtle pattern or soft color. A good trick is to paint
the ceiling a slightly lighter version of the wall color. Ask the paint store to knock down the color 20 percent for the ceiling.
Besides dressing it up, color visually lowers the ceiling and gives the space a feeling of comfort and intimacy.
You could also stencil or wallpaper the ceiling, add architectural elements in the form of beams or mouldings or use a
decorative paint treatment. Other options for adding interest to the "fifth wall": Torchieres and up lights that wash the ceiling
with warm pools of light; a canopy or tented bed that ensconces you in warmth and comfort as well as bringing color, pattern
and texture to the surface above you; and an intricate medallion and sparkling chandelier that add to the room's ambiance and
create a focal point.
3. Don't Choose Out-of-Scale Furniture
Another common problem that designers often correct is bedroom furniture that doesn't fit the space's size. Unless your
bedroom is huge, over-scaled furniture is a mistake. If your ceilings are only eight feet high, for instance, opt for a low
headboard instead of a four-poster that reaches for the rafters (and dwarfs the room).
Too-small furnishings can be a problem as well, getting lost in a large space and falling short on functionality. Beds keep
getting taller, and nightstands need to be taller, too, so you don't fall out of bed when you reach for a sip of water in the middle
of the night. Before buying furniture, make a simple, to-scale sketch of your bedroom as well as paper cut-outs of the
furnishings you're considering. That way, you can be sure ahead of time that everything fits and that the scale of various pieces
complements each other.
4. Don't Skimp on Storage
When you picture a private sanctuary, do you envision piles of newspapers and drawers too stuffed to shut properly? We didn't
think so. Clutter equals stress, so the bedroom should be clutter-free. The key element for creating a no-clutter zone: good
storage.
Having a place to stash everything imparts a sense of calmness and order, so integrate hidden storage wherever you can:
Instead of puny bedside tables, choose generously sized nightstands with drawers or doors that let you hide books, magazines,
reading glasses, lotion and other sundry items out of sight, but within easy reach. In fact, small dressers on either side of the
bed serve the same function as nightstands, but have much more storage space.
Opt for a trunk or a storage bench at the foot of the bed to conceal extra bedding and throw pillows when they're not in use.
Consider a bed with slide-out drawers underneath. Some clever new models even have mattresses that lift to reveal a large
storage cavity.
And though it can be pricey, a built-in closet system will utilize every inch of potential storage in that space, helping you keep
clothing chaos contained and out of the bedroom proper.
If new furniture or a closet re-do aren't in the budget right now, storage boxes that slip under the bed and are hidden by a dust
ruffle are a good solution.
5. Don't Overcrowd It
Having to navigate an obstacle course of furniture to get to the closet, or sharing the bedroom with an abundance of dusty
accessories are not elements that lend themselves to the tranquil, soothing vibe you're trying to create. Instead, keep the
bedroom simple and serene. Remember: The look you're going for is beautifully spare, subtly sophisticated and elegantly
understated.
For smaller bedrooms, use only the furniture you absolutely need: A bed, nightstands, maybe a cozy chair and a small side
table. Put your dresser in the closet so it doesn't take up valuable space in the bedroom. When placing furniture, make sure to
leave at least three feet between the bed and walls or tall pieces, such as armoires, and at least two feet between the bed and
low furniture like tables and dressers. Do your best to keep traffic paths in the room unobstructed, too — if you have to circle
around the bed to get from the bathroom to the closet, for instance, you may want to consider repositioning the bed.
When it comes to tchotchkes in this space, less is definitely more. A lot of people over-accessorize in the bedroom. Be really
judicious with accessories — one great piece of art and a few simple accents are all you need. And make sure that accessories
work with the style and theme of the room. That means simple, minimal accessories in a modern bedroom, and maybe a
beautiful seashell or two in a coastal- or beach-themed space. You may want to also stay away from heavily tasselled, fringed
and gathered window treatments and pillows which can be visually disturbing.
6. Don't Forget a Cozy Sitting Spot
A quiet place to sit and read — or to sip your morning tea while you gaze out the window — is a wonderful gift to yourself. If the
space in your bedroom allows, tuck a cushy armchair and footrest (or a pair, if you can fit them), a small table and a reading lamp
into an unused corner or at the foot of your bed to create a reading or sitting area.
Not enough room? Window seats save floor space and make the most of natural light and views, so consider a built-in bench
under the bedroom window. I would recommend an upholstered headboard to make the bed more comfortable for sitting up. At
the very least, put a bench at the end of the bed so you have a place to sit down and untie your shoes.
7. Don't Leave Yourself in the Dark
A single, glaring overhead light creates harsh shadows and doesn't do much to help you see what's in dresser drawers or make
out the words in the book you're trying to read. A light mounted from the center of the ceiling is, after all, directing light behind
the place you need it to, plus, the down light casts under-eye shadows that would make even Gisele Bündchen look bad.
Instead, layer lighting throughout the room. In a bedroom, just as in any other space, you need ambient (general, ceiling-
mounted) lighting to illuminate the entire room; task lighting (on bedside tables and vanities) to provide focused light for
reading and other activities; and accent lighting (in the form of wall sconces, torchieres or art lights) to add drama, wash the
room in soft illumination and lend a cozy, welcoming vibe. Lights at different levels and in different areas create a mood that's
pleasing and romantic.
Make sure lighting is adjustable, too: Bedside lamps with pivoting arms let you direct light exactly where you need it. Dimmers
allow you to adjust wattage depending on the time of day and the mood you want. And having lights on separate switches lets
you customize the level of illumination; you can turn on lights in just one area of the room without fear of waking your
slumbering mate.
8. Don't Forget to Indulge in Luxurious Linens
The bedroom, more than any other space in your home, should be a tactile and sensual wonderland. We spend a third of our
lives in bed — we might as well do it in luxury. Outfit yours with textiles: Adorn the bed with plush pillows, sumptuous sheets,
cozy covers and oh-so-touchable throws that make it a place you can't wait to melt into at night.
When it comes to sheets, designers are unanimous in their preference for natural fibres like cotton (don't settle for less than
100 percent) or linen, and for high thread counts (aim for 350 or more). Synthetic fabrics don't breathe. Satin sheets may look
great in movies, but they have two problems: They make you sweat like crazy and slide off the bed.
Tactile wall coverings and textured curtain panels add to the sensual feeling in a bedroom.
Bedding isn't the only place for tactile treats in the bedroom: Drape a sinfully soft cashmere throw over the arm of your reading
chair; upholster the walls with fabric or textured wallpaper; hang silk sheers or substantial curtains from a canopy bed; and
create a soft landing by placing a plush rug at your bedside or by splurging on soft, natural-fibre carpeting for the bedroom.
9. Don't Short change Windows
What's standard issue in even the cheapest motel rooms, yet usually overlooked in our own bedrooms? Blackout window
treatments. Thin curtains that let the rising sun peel your eyes open at first light or poorly sized shades or blinds that allow light
to seep in around the edges don't allow for that most decadent of weekend indulgences: sleeping in. Instead, designers say,
choose curtains or shades with sewn-in blackout linings, or opt for thicker, more opaque fabrics that block the sun's glare
when you need them to but can be swept aside or pulled up when you want natural light to pour in. If you like the look of gauzy,
transparent curtains that filter light and billow in the breeze, pair them with opaque roller blinds that can be pulled down to
maintain privacy at night and to block morning light.
Another advantage of a beautifully dressed window is that drapes frame the window and the view and offer another opportunity
to incorporate texture, color, pattern and softness into the room.
10. Don't Bring the Everyday Into the Bedroom
A beeping cell phone; the ping of incoming e-mail; exercise equipment that seems to stare at you in silent judgment; and the
drone of the nightly news turn the bedroom into yet another space where you have things to accomplish and responsibilities to
fulfill. So check your cell phone, pager and PDA at the bedroom door. While you're at it, banish your treadmill, laptop and work
files. Consider moving out the TV, too. The less you can plug in, the better. The only things that should be going on in the
bedroom are reading, sleeping and romance.
Be vigilant about keeping out these nagging reminders of the outside world, and you'll create
a cherished place to relax and renew. In other words, a true sanctuary.
