Margrethe Odgaard designs curtains for Kvadrat that take cues from wainscoting

Curtains, while essential for window treatments, offer versatile applications in interior design, extending beyond their primary function to zone, soften, conceal, divide, and reveal spaces within a home. This exploration delves into various projects from the ELLE Decoration archives, showcasing innovative uses of draped textiles, from opulent velvet drapes to ethereal sheer fabrics, to inspire new approaches to home aesthetics. In a Parisian apartment, daring ombre sheer curtains by artist Justin Morin transform a 'fumoir' into a stylish nook, complemented by a re-upholstered 'Bellini Camaleonda' sofa. This demonstrates how artful curtain choices can elevate a room's elegance and define specific areas within an open-plan layout. Similarly, in a Melbourne home, Studio Doherty utilized a blue sheer curtain made from Kvadrat's 'Rocket' fabric to separate a conversation pit from an adjacent study. This strategic placement highlights the curtain's ability to create intimate zones without fully enclosing a space, maintaining an open feel while providing a sense of division. Designer Lee Broom's New York apartment features a bespoke pleated Dedar muslin curtain on a curved rail, ingeniously separating the living room from the kitchen. This curved design not only provides functional separation but also introduces a sculptural element, enhancing the room's contemporary aesthetic and mirroring architectural forms visible from the windows. In a Sonoma, California residence, luxurious deep-green mohair curtains by Pierre Frey, in 'Mousse' provide a serene and enveloping atmosphere in the living space. This illustrates how the texture and color of curtains can significantly contribute to the overall mood and tactile experience of a room, creating a cozy and inviting ambiance. Claude Cartier's Lyon home showcases curtains as artistic installations, with Métaphores Paris velvet drapes and a silk installation by Justin Morin defining the living room. This approach emphasizes curtains not merely as functional items but as integral components of a home's artistic and design narrative. A London home by designer Sam Buckley features a continuous sheer curtain across windows and walls, employing Peter Saville for Kvadrat's 'Technicolour Flux' fabric. This design creates a soft, cocooning effect, providing a pastel backdrop that unifies the space and enhances its tranquil character. In a Reggio Emilia loft, homeowner Alessandra Guidetti masterfully uses sound-absorbing curtains to zone an open-plan living area, allowing for flexible layout adjustments as needed. This highlights the practical utility of curtains in adapting living spaces to varying requirements, offering both privacy and spatial fluidity. Johanna Rosén's Copenhagen home uses curtains of varying weights to both zone and decorate. Heavy pink velvet separates the bedroom, while a pale blue sheer curtain by Arne Aksel covers the living room window and conceals the front door, offering privacy and a sense of retreat from the outside world. Finally, the home and office of design studio Masquespacio in Valencia employ curtains extensively to soften and divide large industrial spaces, and to diffuse light. A custom yellow curtain from Vescom, separating a courtyard from the hallway, exemplifies how curtains can create a soft ambiance and manage natural light effectively. These diverse examples collectively demonstrate that curtains are far more than simple window dressings. They are powerful design tools capable of transforming spatial perception, enhancing privacy, controlling light, and adding significant aesthetic value to any interior, functioning as flexible architectural elements that adapt to the evolving needs and styles of a home. #CurtainDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #TextileArt #SpaceZoning #ArchitecturalTextiles #ModernInteriors #DecorativeCurtains

This article showcases eight vibrant window coverings designed to introduce color and visual interest into a room. Each featured product offers a distinct aesthetic, ranging from classic floral patterns to modern geometric designs and subtle textures, catering to diverse interior design preferences. The first highlight is the Lent Lily Fabric in Plum/Bayleaf by The Huntington for Morris & Co.—Sanderson. This fabric, a result of a collaboration with The Huntington library and art museum, draws inspiration from William Morris's archives, featuring pointed tulips and wild daffodils in a rich color palette. It brings a historical and botanical elegance to windowscapes. Next, the Glimmer Windowcovering Fabric from Hartmann&Forbes; offers a more earthy and shimmering appeal. Available in ten shades including Azure, Saffron, and Cinnabar, this fabric adds a subtle glow and natural texture to a space, making it suitable for various design schemes that emphasize organic elements and soft light. Kravet's Haywood Embroidered Panel in Multi by Lee Jofa is presented as a vibrant showstopper. This drapery is characterized by polychromatic crewel-embroidered petals and leaves, offering an elaborate and decorative option for those looking to make a bold statement with their window treatments. Its intricate embroidery provides a rich visual texture. The Ondra Fabric in Mehndi by Black Edition—Romo is another striking option. This boldly banded jacquard weave is offered in four eye-catching hues, designed to make a significant impact in any room where it is installed. Its strong patterns and color combinations provide a contemporary and energetic feel. Élitis contributes the Nilsa Fabric in Havre de Terre, which features an undulating chevron pattern. Flamed weft yarns give this fabric a sense of rhythm and movement, adding dynamic visual interest to windows. The design is modern and sophisticated, playing with texture and subtle color variations. Sanderson's Musafir Fabric in Mineral/Coral draws inspiration from an archival document, showcasing a two-tone warp-printed ikat pattern. This striped fabric offers a blend of historical reference and modern execution, providing a unique and sophisticated look with its intricate dyeing technique. Marcus William's Guideline Fabric in Aloe offers a more understated yet impactful option. This semi-sheer cotton-linen curtain upholstery casts a subtle seafoam green glow, providing a serene and airy ambiance. It is ideal for spaces that aim for a gentle infusion of color and natural light. Finally, the Monolith Fabric in Jasper/Zircon by Harlequin—Sanderson is highlighted. Composed of pure silk and hand-printed, this fabric is available in four multitonal colorways, including verdant Jade/Kyanite and cerulean Jasper/Zircon. Its luxurious material and artisanal printing technique offer a high-end and artistic window treatment solution. Each product featured in the article is sourced from Business of Home’s ‘Collections’ vertical, which showcases new product debuts from prominent industry brands. #WindowTreatments #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #FabricDesign #TextileArt #ColorfulInteriors #MorrisAndCo #Kravet #Sanderson

This article explores the emerging interior design trend of using borders and edging on curtains to enhance the aesthetic appeal of a room. Traditionally, curtains were often viewed as functional elements for privacy and light control, meant to blend into the background. However, contemporary designers are reimagining curtain borders in new colors, patterns, and styles, transforming them into subtle yet impactful design features that can make a space feel more luxurious and characterful. The article highlights that this trend offers a balanced approach for those who appreciate pattern and color but are hesitant to commit to a fully patterned curtain, which can often dominate a room visually. By adding a border, designers can introduce a dose of visual interest without overwhelming the space. The concept of 'curtain edges' is introduced as a modern reinterpretation of traditional borders, moving away from fussy or ornate designs towards sleek and simple accents. Several design applications of this trend are presented. One approach involves edging simple curtains with interesting shapes, such as wavy patterns, to introduce texture and subtle focal points within a minimalist interior. This method allows for a pop of color or an intriguing silhouette that complements a neutral color scheme without overpowering it. For instance, a bold red wavy edge on a white curtain can add detail and mirror other sculptural elements in the room, maintaining a sense of calm. Another application is to integrate patterns from other elements in the room into the curtain edges. This technique ensures a cohesive design, as the curtain border picks up on existing motifs, tying the space together. This is particularly effective in rooms with ample natural light, where lighter curtains are preferred, and allows for the introduction of pattern without pushing the room into a maximalist aesthetic. Designers emphasize that edged curtains provide an ideal starting point for experimenting with color, offering a low-commitment way to elevate the room's perimeter. The article also discusses how fringing, when executed with sophistication, can become a refined design choice. Instead of traditional, heavy fringes, modern applications feature sleek, texture-rich fringes that add a noble heaviness and French style without appearing anachronistic. The key is to balance the decorative edge with the simplicity of the main curtain fabric, or even match the fringe color to the curtain for a more subtle textural effect. Furthermore, contrasting curtain edges can effectively enhance windows and frame views. By drawing the eye to the drapes, these borders highlight the window opening and any views beyond. This method is particularly useful for making large windows a central feature or creating the illusion of larger windows by extending the drapes from floor to ceiling. The article suggests that a custom-printed stripe on the leading edge of curtains can achieve this effect while allowing light to filter through. Finally, the trend offers a solution for injecting detail into spaces that already feature busy walls or extensive art collections. In such environments, heavily patterned drapes might create a cluttered feel. Curtain edges, however, allow for the introduction of vibrancy and design without adding competing patterns, ensuring the window treatment complements rather than distracts from other significant elements in the room. This approach maintains a playful yet balanced aesthetic, as demonstrated by the use of distinct fabric sections as borders. #CurtainTrends #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #WindowTreatments #TextileDesign #CurtainBorders #LuxuryInteriors #DesignTips

This article explores the resurgence of window treatments in home decor, drawing insights from Karen Hardy, owner and founder of Accent Interiors. Hardy, who started her interior design journey by creating custom drapery for personal use and then for friends and family, eventually transitioned her passion into a full-service interior design studio. The article highlights that window treatments are experiencing a significant comeback, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. This renewed interest is not solely for aesthetic purposes; functionality plays a crucial role. Homeowners are increasingly seeking window solutions that address practical needs such as light control, privacy, and ease of operation, moving beyond merely decorative panels. Popular trends in window treatments include designs with beautiful banding along the leading edge and specific pleat styles. Valances are also noted for their popularity, with clients preferring tailored options that reflect their personal style. Layering, a trend prevalent in the 1990s, is also making a return, albeit in a sleeker, more refined manner, often incorporating elegant trims. Hardy advises homeowners to first consider their specific needs and goals for dressing a window. This involves determining whether the treatment is primarily for aesthetics or if it needs to serve a functional purpose, such as brightening a room, darkening it, or enhancing privacy. Understanding these elements is crucial for selecting the most appropriate type of drapery and achieving the desired outcome. The article also provides a glossary of key terms related to window treatments to help readers understand different styles and components. These terms include distinctions between drapes and curtains, explaining that curtains often come in pairs or panels and are installed over blinds, while drapes are typically made from lined, heavier fabrics with a more formal appearance. It clarifies the differences between Roman and balloon shades, with Roman shades lifting neatly into folds and balloon shades featuring more formal, pouf-shaped bottoms. Definitions are also provided for swags and jabots, where swags are lined fabrics hanging in a drooping curve and jabots are folded fabric pieces creating a zig-zag effect down the window sides. Furthermore, the article differentiates between a valance, a short fabric piece covering the uppermost part of a window, and a lambrequin, which is a longer valance with sides extending further down. Lastly, "fabric repeats" are explained as the measurement of a fabric pattern before it reiterates, both horizontally and vertically. In essence, the piece emphasizes a shift in consumer preference towards thoughtful, functional, and aesthetically pleasing window treatments, guided by professional expertise. #InteriorDesign #WindowTreatments #HomeDecor #AccentInteriors #KarenHardy #DecoratingTrends #FunctionalDesign #Textiles #HomeFurnishings

This article, part of the 'Design Talk' series for Daily AD, features an interview with Manhattan designer Miles Redd, who shares his insights into the growing popularity of unlined curtains in interior design. The conversation aims to explore current design ideas and trends, offering practical tips and trade secrets. Redd addresses the common perception that curtains can appear overly 'Victorian,' 'heavy,' or 'fussy,' suggesting that unlined curtains offer a refreshing and modern alternative. He observes a shift towards lighter window treatments, which he attributes to a potential reaction against periods of high color and elaborate designs, emphasizing the 'lightness' these curtains bring to a space. Contrary to the notion that sheer curtains might be reminiscent of dated styles, Redd highlights the variety of contemporary options available. He cites an example from architect Gil Schafer’s country house, where a paper-thin handkerchief linen fabric from Rogers & Goffigon called 'Gasoline' was used on every window. This choice created a cohesive and masculine aesthetic throughout the home, demonstrating the versatility of unlined fabrics. The discussion also touches upon specific design details, such as the use of contrasting tape or ribbon stitched along the edge of linen panels, simply tied back. Redd appreciates this detail, noting that it adds a 'graphic sharpness' to a room, likening it to a precise, elegant detail in fashion. While Redd expresses a personal preference for unlined silk taffeta, he provides a practical caution: this material does not hold up well in bright, intense sunlight due to its tendency to rot quickly. For sunny areas requiring curtains, he subtly suggests considering fabrics that incorporate polyester, indicating a balance between aesthetic preference and material durability for different environmental conditions. The article concludes by inviting readers to explore further topics related to news, prominent designers, and interior decor. #InteriorDesign #CurtainTrends #MilesRedd #HomeDecor #WindowTreatments #FabricSelection #ModernDesign #DesignTalk

The article explores the anticipated curtain trends for 2023, offering insights from interior designers and fabric experts to guide readers in making design-forward choices. It acknowledges the challenge of selecting curtains that will remain stylish over time, often leading to choices of plain, neutral designs. While neutral options like greige wool or floaty linen are effective for sophisticated or casual aesthetics, the article emphasizes that for those seeking more personality, certain trends can add pizzazz. One significant overarching trend identified is an increased emphasis on curtains, extending beyond traditional window coverings to encompass doors, cupboards, walls, and even ceilings, suggesting a "more is more" approach. This maximalist perspective views curtains as central to interior design. Delving into specific trends, the article first highlights "pared-back patterns." This trend focuses on subtle, small-scale prints such as checks or tiny florals on solid backgrounds. These patterns aim to add personality without dominating the room. Drawing inspiration from design history and global aesthetics, these prints are intended to offer a contemporary feel. Gingham or check fabrics are noted as particularly versatile and enduring, suitable for various home styles from cottages to city pads. The second trend discussed is "handcrafted details." This involves incorporating bespoke elements like embroidered patterns, hand-quilted panels, or scalloped leading edges on drapes. Such details are seen as a way to make curtains distinctive without overwhelming the overall space. Embroidered details also contribute subtle texture, enhancing coziness in living rooms or bedrooms. Trims are suggested as a means to add pattern and color to plain fabrics, with examples including contrasting color pairings like pink and red or yellow and lilac. "Alternative pelmets" constitute the third trend, moving beyond traditional curtain rails to introduce more dramatic and decorative options. The article notes a departure from old-fashioned pelmet associations, with new designs offering fresh ways to add interest. Lath and fascia in matching fabric are presented as a modern alternative to traditional pelmets, transforming hidden tracks into decorative features. Gathered pelmets are also highlighted, adding a decorative element that can be customized with patterns like gingham or stripes for children's rooms, or plain fabrics for more sophisticated adult spaces. The fourth trend, "new graphics," emphasizes bold graphic prints in textiles. This trend, exemplified by Kvadrat's 'Quote' collection, balances hard lines with soft textures and neutral palettes. The key to successfully integrating striking graphic prints is maintaining balance; straight edges of squares and triangles can be toned down with lighter materials and pared-back palettes, while curved shapes accommodate bolder colors and more opaque fabrics. Bold vertical stripes are also mentioned, with versatility in width and spacing to control their impact. Finally, "disappearing acts" represent a minimalist approach to curtain installation. This trend involves integrating drapery into suspended ceilings, creating a custom and luxurious look that draws the eye upward and streamlines the space. This can be achieved by creating a recess in the ceiling or using a solid pelmet painted to match the walls, effectively concealing the curtain rails for a seamless, architectural finish. For living rooms, a key trend is "layering." This involves combining different window treatments, such as woven wood blinds with solid-colored drapery panels. This technique adds texture and visual interest. Experimentation with structure, by pairing flowing curtains with solid panels, or with texture, by layering different fabrics like wool drapes with linen on a double curtain pole, is encouraged. Even with a single pole, contrasting linings can create a layered effect, offering a flash of color when curtains are drawn. #CurtainTrends #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ParedBackPatterns #HandcraftedDetails #AlternativePelmets #GraphicPrints #MinimalistWindowTreatments #TextileLayering

Martha Stewart, despite not using curtains in her own home, has created a line of curtains available on Amazon, currently on sale. Her personal preference for not having curtains stems from a practical need to wake up early with the sun, as she lives and works on a farm, requiring her to be active by 7 a.m. This lifestyle choice allows her to embrace natural light and the routine of farm life without obstruction. However, recognizing that curtains are an essential element of home decor for most individuals, Stewart has designed a collection catering to diverse needs and aesthetic preferences. Her collection features a variety of lengths and thicknesses, ranging from delicate sheer options to blackout curtains, suitable for different rooms and desired levels of light filtration and privacy. The article highlights several selections from her collection, all of which are currently discounted. One featured item is the Martha Stewart Water's Edge Tufted Rod Pocket/Back Tab Window Curtain Panel Pair. These lightweight curtains, part of her Lily Pond Coastal Window Collection, are designed to softly filter sunlight, creating a light and airy ambiance. They are particularly recommended for kitchen windows, envisioning a serene morning coffee setting. The Sherwood Velvet Grommet Window Curtain Panel Pair, from Stewart's Skylands Traditional and Elegant Window Collection, offers a blend of comfort, warmth, and maximalist style. These velvet panels are ideal for spaces with transitional or traditional decor, adding a dramatic and cozy touch. For those seeking a traditional, cottagecore aesthetic, the Martha Stewart Jakarta Rod Pocket/Back Tab Window Curtain Panel Pair, from the Bedford Country Farmhouse Window Collection, provides floral curtains with a blackout lining. These are suitable for living rooms, dining spaces, or bedrooms, offering both style and practicality with their easy hanging options and machine-washable fabric. The Glacier Sheer Rod Pocket Window Curtain Panel Pair presents a versatile and fashionable option. These sheer curtains subtly filter light, making a room feel bright and spacious, and can be used as a standalone treatment or layered for a more dramatic effect. Another option from the Bedford Country Farmhouse Window Collection is the Lido Linen Blackout Foam Lined Rod Pocket/Back Tab Window Curtain Panel Pair. These foam-lined curtains are designed to block unwanted sunlight, reduce noise, and minimize drafts. They also help protect furniture, rugs, and floors from fading due to sun exposure, while adding textural interest to a room. Finally, the Laguna Stripe Tie Tab Window Curtain Panel Pair, from the Lily Pond Coastal Window Collection, features yarn-dyed, semi-sheer fabric with a soft pinstripe. These curtains offer subtle decorative interest and are well-suited for contemporary living rooms, entryways, or landings where ample sunlight is desired. #MarthaStewart #CurtainDesign #HomeDecor #AmazonDeals #InteriorStyling #WindowTreatments #CelebrityStyle #HomeFurnishings

The perception of window valances as ornate and outdated is being challenged by contemporary designers who are reinterpreting them with modern sensibilities. The article highlights a shift from traditional, froufy designs to more whimsical and trim variations that complement minimalist aesthetics while retaining a touch of classical elegance. This modern approach to valance design focuses on clean lines and subtle details, proving that they can indeed enhance a room without overpowering it. Designer Katie Ridder, for instance, has incorporated highly tailored valances in her Hamptons designs. These valances feature a straight top and boxy sides, with a gently dipping bottom line, reminiscent of classic cornice shapes. Ridder's designs are upholstered in floral fabrics and adorned with unique elements like a hand-sewn grosgrain ribbon swirl, inspired by artist Michele Oka Doner. This fusion of traditional forms with minimalist silhouettes demonstrates how valances can add a refined finish to otherwise ordinary windows. Another example is seen in a London home, formerly an upholstery factory, where crisp blue valances feature a playful, curly bracket-like edge. This design, while traditionally inspired, is wholly modern in its execution, showcasing how subtle architectural details can elevate a room's character. These instances indicate a broader trend where designers are embracing classical elements but adapting them to fit contemporary interiors, moving away from heavy braids and tassels towards cleaner, more artistic expressions. Designer Nick Olsen also champions this modern reinterpretation, referencing classical forms in his work. His notable yellow window treatments in the Kips Bay House offer an elaborate appearance at first glance but reveal a coy illusion upon closer inspection. Olsen explains that he draws inspiration from Baroque and Chinoiserie-inflected curtain pelmets found in historical European estates. To update these classical forms, he manipulates dimension and scale, opting for flat appliqués of contrasting fabric instead of traditional heavy embellishments. Olsen's Kips Bay valances, inspired by sketches from Christian Bérard and with a hint of Elsa Schiaparelli, use rich duchesse satin and swirling French curves to create a trompe l'oeil shadow effect against wood-grain wall coverings. This design approach allows the valances to appear to float or lift off the window frame, contributing to the room's aesthetic without dominating it. Olsen describes this style as "pastiche with a wink," embodying the essence of Postmodernism, where historical references are playfully and cleverly integrated into modern design. Ultimately, the article demonstrates that window valances are undergoing a renaissance, shedding their outdated image to become sophisticated and stylish elements in contemporary home decor. Designers are achieving this by simplifying forms, using modern fabrics, and incorporating subtle, whimsical details that pay homage to tradition while firmly placing them in the modern design landscape. This trend reflects a broader appreciation for tailored details and refined craftsmanship in interior design. #WindowValance #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #ModernDesign #KatieRidder #NickOlsen #ArchitecturalDetails #Postmodernism #TextileDesign

Margrethe Odgaard, a Copenhagen-based designer, has cultivated a rigorous and innovative approach to color and textile design since launching her independent studio in 2012. Her body of work includes textile designs for prominent companies such as Hay and Georg Jensen Damask, as well as collaborations with other Danish creatives, including furniture designers and chef-brewers. This extensive output is underpinned by a meticulous methodology, particularly her unique color index. Odgaard developed her own 280-color palette as an alternative to existing mathematically-derived systems like Pantone, RAL, and NCS. She found these traditional systems to lack complexity and aimed to create hues that possess an immediate sensory appeal beyond just sight. Her criterion for a successful color is its 'edibility' – if one is willing to put the color in their mouth, it effectively relates to the body. This approach led to a rich spectrum of colors, from a color-shifting cocoa to an ultra-saturated neon purple, which she meticulously painted onto popsicle sticks to visualize and categorize. Her design philosophy is deeply influenced by her upbringing in pastoral western Denmark, where the natural environment fostered an attraction to opposition and a drive to make a significant impact through her work. Odgaard, an alumna of the Rhode Island School of Design and the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, describes her constant striving to not merely 'make noise' but to 'make a difference' as a designer. Beyond her color index, Odgaard's diverse portfolio showcases her inventive spirit. She created 'Navajo Drawings,' which are wooden 3-D stick drawings inspired by Native American art, envisioned as three-dimensional wall decorations. Her 'Fold Unfold' tablecloth design features patterns that appear to flow out of its creases, demonstrating an innovative use of textile form. Additionally, her design for the 'Yolk' bowl for Kähler exemplifies her ability to translate her color and form sensibilities into various product categories. Odgaard's studio in Copenhagen serves as the hub for her multifaceted projects. Her consistent output and distinct approach highlight a designer who not only understands the technical aspects of color and material but also imbues her creations with a deeper, sensory connection. Her work stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful design that engages both the intellect and the senses. #MargretheOdgaard #TextileDesign #ColorTheory #DanishDesign #ProductDesign #InteriorDesign #DesignInnovation #CopenhagenStudio

A British woman has shared an innovative and cost-effective method to achieve perfectly pleated curtains, utilizing empty toilet tissue rolls. Kelly Rowland from Bolton demonstrated how these common household items can be used to maintain evenly spaced folds in curtains, a technique that has garnered significant attention and praise from home decor enthusiasts on social media. The hack involves threading the cardboard tubes between the curtain eyelets or loops along the curtain rail, effectively creating a uniform separation that prevents the fabric from bunching unevenly. Kelly initially shared this idea on Facebook in July, and it has since resurfaced and gone viral across various cleaning and interior design groups. Her post included photographs illustrating the before-and-after effect, showcasing how the toilet rolls contribute to a neat and structured appearance for the curtains, both when they are open and when closed. This simple solution offers an alternative to more expensive curtain styling accessories or specialized curtain designs that inherently provide pleating. The technique gained further traction after being endorsed by popular social media cleaning personality Mrs. Hinch, who shared it with her extensive follower base. This endorsement significantly amplified the reach of Kelly's hack, leading to thousands of shares and numerous comments from users eager to try it themselves. Many expressed their enthusiasm, describing the idea as "genius" and a "bloody great idea," noting how it could transform the look of their own curtains without requiring complex tools or significant financial investment. However, not all reactions were entirely positive. A segment of social media users voiced skepticism, particularly concerning the practical implications of using toilet rolls to space curtains. These critics raised questions about the functionality of the curtains when opened, suggesting that the rolls might impede the ability to fully draw back the drapes. Some preferred the natural fall of curtains or found the idea of using toilet rolls to be an unconventional and potentially restrictive solution for window treatments. Despite some reservations, the overall response highlighted the widespread desire for simple, effective, and budget-friendly home improvement tips. Kelly Rowland's curtain hack offers a creative approach to enhance the aesthetic appeal of curtains, transforming a common household waste product into a functional tool for interior styling. The virality of this tip underscores the power of social media in sharing practical domestic solutions and fostering a community of houseproud individuals seeking innovative ways to organize and beautify their living spaces. #CurtainStyling #HomeDecor #DIYHomeHacks #InteriorDesignTips #BudgetDecor #HouseproudCommunity #SocialMediaTrend

The article introduces Bengt Thornefors, the creative director of Sahco, a nearly 200-year-old textile brand, and his innovative approach to integrating fashion and interior design. Thornefors, known for his work in the fashion industry with brands like Acne Studios and Saint Laurent, was appointed to his current role in 2022. His background includes co-founding the bedware brand Magniberg, which, like Sahco, is now under the ownership of Kvadrat. This experience has equipped him with extensive expertise in fashion, which he now applies to the realm of textiles. Thornefors's appointment by Kvadrat's CEO, Anders Byriel, reflects a desire to inject fresh perspectives into Sahco, moving beyond traditional textile manufacturing to embrace broader cultural and artistic influences. Thornefors views interiors as having a special appeal, and his ability to navigate both fashion and interior design was a key factor in his selection. He aims to explore the interplay between historical textile traditions and contemporary design, creating collections that embody the essence of a true textile maison. For Sahco's inaugural press presentation at Kvadrat's New York City headquarters, Thornefors adopted an unconventional approach. He transformed the space into a white-box gallery, showcasing fabrics tailored into garment bags and hung on rolling racks, reminiscent of a fashion show. These textile displays were artfully combined with fine art photographs and furnishings from the esteemed Swedish institution Svenskt Tenn, demonstrating a fusion of art, fashion, and home decor. This presentation strategy was a deliberate effort to blur the boundaries between different creative disciplines, emphasizing the emotional and artistic value of textiles rather than just their functional aspects. The reception to Thornefors's innovative presentation was highly positive, even from discerning figures like Jonathan Olivares, the architect of the presentation space. His new collections for Sahco are characterized by a blend of heritage sensibilities, retaining Sahco's traditional decorative florals, with a contemporary Scandinavian aesthetic. Thornefors highlights examples such as lime-green embroidery on a jet-black background, which illustrates his modern interpretation of classic motifs. This design philosophy underscores his belief that Sahco sells more than just fabric; it sells emotions, aiming to evoke feelings and experiences through its products. The article concludes by noting that this story originally appeared in the September 2023 issue of ELLE DECOR, emphasizing its relevance and timeliness within the design world. #TextileDesign #InteriorDesign #FashionInfluence #BengtThornefors #Sahco #Kvadrat #HomeDecor #ScandinavianDesign #CreativeDirection

Kriskadecor's aluminium chain-link hangings, a design patented by the Spanish brand in 1932, offer diverse applications in interior design, particularly for striking ceiling installations. These versatile chains are available in a broad spectrum of colours, finishes, shapes, densities, and alignments, allowing for extensive customization to suit various aesthetic and functional requirements. Beyond their traditional use as space dividers, wall coverings, and facade cladding, architects and designers increasingly leverage these chains to create visually impactful ceiling features. Several projects exemplify the creative potential of Kriskadecor's chains in ceiling applications. For instance, the 61 Osteria restaurant in Fort Worth, Texas, showcases an opulent geometric gold chain arrangement that crowns the interior. Similarly, the Ecla Paris Villejuif youth co-living residences in France feature vibrant loops of chains suspended from the ceiling, adding a dynamic and colourful element to the shared spaces. In the Barcelona offices of Papernest, a colourful installation of circular chain arrangements defines the ceiling, enhancing the office environment. According to Kriskadecor, the ceiling presents a significant opportunity in interior design to instantly capture attention and inject a sense of surprise and charm into an environment. The brand notes that an increasing number of interior design professionals are focusing on the creative possibilities of ceiling treatments, utilizing these chains to achieve original and striking designs. These installations can dramatically influence the perception of space within an interior. The reflective properties of the aluminium chains contribute to the ambiance by diffusing natural daylight or accentuating the glow of artificial lighting, thereby enhancing the overall brightness and visual depth of a room. The lightweight nature of the aluminium material is a key advantage, enabling the creation of a wide variety of large-scale hanging sculptures and intricate designs. Designers can form soft waves, dense volumes, or even create the illusion of falling rain with the chains. These installations also serve practical purposes, such as altering the perceived height of a ceiling, making large rooms feel more intimate, or clearly delineating different areas within an open-plan space without erecting solid barriers. Kriskadecor offers an extensive colour palette for its chains, including various anodised finishes and the option to match any RAL or Pantone hue. The brand further provides a custom in-house design tool that can reproduce any picture, pattern, or logo by treating each individual chain link as a pixel. This capability allows for highly personalized and detailed artistic expressions. In terms of sustainability, Kriskadecor's aluminium chains are durable and low-maintenance, resistant to corrosion and wear. Furthermore, aluminium is an infinitely recyclable material, and the chain links themselves are composed of 20 per cent recycled content, supporting circular economy principles. Kriskadecor's technical office collaborates closely with clients on each project, ensuring that every installation is custom-designed to meet the specific requirements and aesthetic vision for the space. This tailored approach allows for the maximization of the chains' decorative and functional attributes, ultimately contributing to unique and impactful interior environments. #Kriskadecor #CeilingInstallations #InteriorDesign #AluminiumChains #DecorativeMaterials #SpaceDividers #CustomDesign #SustainableMaterials #ArchitecturalDesign

The concept of using curtains instead of traditional doors to delineate spaces within a home has emerged as a divisive yet stylish trend in interior design. This approach offers a departure from both rigid traditionalism and the open-plan layouts that are gradually losing favor, providing a middle ground for homeowners seeking both separation and fluidity. Proponents of curtain doors, such as Lauren Saab of Saab Studios and MK Bokyin Smith of Smith Interior Design, highlight several benefits. Saab emphasizes the softness and texture curtains bring to a space, allowing for a gentler transition between rooms compared to solid doors. She notes that curtains can offer separation when needed without creating a complete shut-off, making movement between areas feel more relaxed and less formal. Smith echoes this sentiment, stating that curtain doors are a deliberate design choice for her firm, contributing to definition, softness, texture, and warmth within an interior. Unlike doors, they are not rigid or permanent, preserving flow while fostering intimacy. The versatility of curtain doors is another key advantage. Designers can choose from a wide array of fabrics, colors, and textures, ranging from deep jewel-toned velvets to soft neutral linens, to match specific aesthetic goals and create varied moods. This flexibility allows for significant personalization, enabling the curtains to actively shape the space rather than merely serve as functional barriers. However, Saab cautions against using flimsy fabrics, advising that substantial materials are crucial to ensure the curtain doors appear intentional and add personality without looking like an afterthought or weighing down the room. Conversely, some design professionals, including Sara Swabb of Storie Collective, express reservations about the trend. Swabb believes that while curtain doors can possess a whimsical quality, they often compromise a home’s architectural integrity. She prefers to layer spaces with lasting materials and meaningful details, advocating for timeless elements over what she perceives as trend-driven fabric overlays. Swabb argues that natural materials age gracefully and gain character over time, a quality she finds lacking in fabric doors, which she feels rarely age as well. This perspective underscores a preference for enduring structural elements that contribute to a home's long-term design value rather than temporary, decorative solutions. This trend is observed in various settings, from residential primary suites where curtains section off reading nooks to commercial spaces like clothing retailer Tuckernuck’s Madison Avenue store, where fringed curtain doors subtly divide garment sections while maintaining an inviting atmosphere. The discussion surrounding curtain doors highlights a broader ongoing debate in interior design regarding the balance between functionality, aesthetics, and permanence, with designers weighing the benefits of flexibility and softness against concerns about architectural coherence and material longevity. The choice ultimately depends on individual preferences and the specific design goals for a given space. #CurtainDoors #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeDecor #RoomSeparation #DesignDebate #ArchitecturalIntegrity #FabricDecor #ModernLiving #FlexibleSpaces

The year 2025 emphasizes the creation of characterful rooms, with textiles, texture, and color playing a significant role in personalizing living spaces. Curtains, often overlooked in discussions about soft furnishings, are highlighted as an underrated method to achieve this. Drew and Jonathan Scott, widely recognized as The Property Brothers, aim to shift this perception with their celebrity home decor collection, launched in partnership with Kohl's in 2019. This collection features a variety of curtains designed to suit different rooms and aesthetic preferences. The Scott Living range includes options from blackout to sheer curtains, all offered at competitive prices. The materials used are noted for their high quality, contributing subtle texture while maintaining a neutral color palette and overall feel, ensuring adaptability to diverse interior design schemes. Jonathan Scott expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating that it allows families to furnish their homes with their exclusive line of furniture, bedding, bath, and home decor items. Drew Scott further elaborated that Scott Living integrates modern, stylish home design with the essential functionality and value that families require. The article showcases several specific curtain designs from the Scott Living collection available at Kohl's. The Wallis Sheer Window Curtain, priced from $44.99, is described as an ideal neutral option with a slubby material that imparts a Mediterranean warmth. The Verge Geometric Window Curtain, starting from $47.99, incorporates a polka dot pattern, identified as a popular trend for 2025. These semi-sheer curtains allow light to filter through, offering an understated way to introduce pattern. The Tulin Watercolor Print Curtain, available from $55.99, is presented as a beautiful gray and white option suitable for adding a patterned touch to a living room, particularly complementing a white sofa. For those seeking a more distinctive style, the Scott Living Atlantic Ombre Open Weave Sheer, also from $55.99, features an open weave with an alternating light and dark ombre pattern, suggesting a chic and playful element for rooms with brightly colored furniture. The Scott Living Rafaela Woven Pattern Curtain, a 100% blackout chenille option starting at $99.99, is recommended for bedrooms to effectively block light while maintaining an airy and stylish ambiance. Lastly, the Scott Living Renato Semi-sheer Curtains, a linen blend available from $77.99, are highlighted for their breezy quality, making them suitable for a coastal chic room design and delivering significant visual impact through their simplicity. When styling modern curtains, the article advises balancing design with functionality. For instance, more opaque curtains are suggested for bedrooms to maximize light blockage, while sheer curtains are recommended for living rooms where less light control is needed. The choice between solid and patterned curtains should consider existing patterns and colors within the room. Curtains are also presented as an excellent means to participate in the 'pattern drenching' trend, allowing for the comprehensive application of vibrant and bold patterns throughout a home. The Scott Living collection is positioned as an accessible starting point for various styles. The article concludes by emphasizing that curtains, despite sometimes being an afterthought, become an obvious choice for enhancing a space due to their ease of installation, simplicity, and affordability. #CelebrityHomeDecor #CurtainDesigns #HomeTextiles #InteriorDesignTrends #ScottLiving #KohlSCollection #WindowTreatments #AffordableDecor #PatternDrenching

The project "Knowing the Ropes," initiated by designers Brynhildur Pálsdóttir, Þuriður Rós Sigurþórsdóttir, and Theresa Himmer, delves into the ubiquitous nature and varied applications of rope, challenging conventional perceptions of this utilitarian material. This artistic endeavor explores the cultural and structural significance of rope within a Scandinavian context, specifically focusing on its dual existence in interior design and maritime industries. The designers utilize two historical production facilities, Hampiðjan in Reykjavík, Iceland, and Aarhus Possementfabrik in Denmark, both established in the early 20th century and employing similar machinery. These facilities represent the divergent paths of rope production: one for marine use and the other for interior textiles. The core of the project lies in highlighting the unexpected aesthetic and functional intersections that arise when examining a material with such diverse applications. The genesis of "Knowing the Ropes" dates back to 2017. Over time, the project evolved from its initial conceptualization into a comprehensive body of work, culminating in a publication and an exhibition featuring objects and video installations. The initial exhibition was held at the Reykjavík Art Museum in 2021, showcasing the designers' innovative interpretations and creations. The artists further developed their project by presenting an evolved version at the Hallwyl Museum in Stockholm. This particular venue, a meticulously preserved Victorian home from the turn of the 20th century, provided a unique juxtaposition for the contemporary design pieces. The museum's ornate and traditional environment offered a striking contrast to the modern and unconventional objects crafted from rope, creating an unexpectedly modern aesthetic within a historical setting. The exhibition features a range of objects that reimagine the use of rope in everyday items and art installations. These pieces include floor lamps with rope-wrapped bodies and exposed light bulbs, demonstrating how rope can be integrated into lighting design to create a distinctive texture and form. Pedestals made entirely from rope showcase the material's structural capabilities and its potential as a sculptural element. A standing round mirror, framed and supported by intricate rope work, highlights the material's versatility in creating decorative and functional home furnishings. A modern three-legged table also utilizes rope in its construction, presenting it as a primary material rather than a mere accent. Additionally, arch-shaped shelving units, crafted with rope netting, illustrate innovative approaches to storage and display. Through these creations, Pálsdóttir, Sigurþórsdóttir, and Himmer prompt viewers to reconsider the inherent qualities of rope and its potential for artistic and design expression. The project not only celebrates the craftsmanship and heritage associated with rope making but also pushes the boundaries of how textiles can be perceived and utilized in contemporary design. The juxtaposition of modern designs with a historic setting further emphasizes the timeless appeal and adaptability of this fundamental material, inviting a deeper appreciation for the overlooked elements of our material world. #TextileArt #RopeDesign #ScandinavianDesign #MaterialExploration #ContemporaryArt #ExhibitionDesign #InteriorFurnishings #DesignInnovation

Traditionally, interior design has dictated that curtains should gracefully "kiss the floor," a standard that has largely persisted since the 1990s when shorter curtains fell out of vogue, deemed old-fashioned. However, recent sightings in homes of influential creatives, such as the founders of the Danish fashion brand Ganni, Sophie Rowell of Cote de Folk, and Reath Design, suggest a potential resurgence of short curtains. This trend, possibly influenced by the cottagecore aesthetic, challenges the long-held design principle. Interior designer Sophie Rowell of Cote de Folk is a proponent of shorter curtains, advocating for their use when appropriate for the space. She highlights practical benefits, such as accommodating radiators beneath windows, and aesthetic advantages, noting their playful nature. Additionally, shorter curtains require less fabric, making it feasible to use more luxurious or expensive materials without exceeding budget, as demonstrated in a client's room with Décor Barbares fabric. Rowell advises that the key to successfully incorporating short curtains lies in precise measurement; they should extend slightly beyond the windowsill to avoid looking "skimpy" or disproportionate. Conversely, Rebecca Constable of Rebecca Constable Design firmly favors traditional long curtains. She argues that long curtains contribute to a room's perceived height and do not create the horizontal line that shorter curtains do, which she believes can visually cut off the space. While long curtains require more fabric, she points out that affordable options are available from retailers like The Pure Edit, Zara Home, and La Redoute. Olivia Caplan of Olivia Caplan Design shares this sentiment, expressing a strong aversion to short curtains. She believes they disrupt the visual flow of a room, creating a muddled appearance, and advocates for curtains that gently touch the floor to enhance elegance and height. Caplan also suggests positioning curtain poles as high as possible to maximize the illusion of height. For situations where short curtains are a practical necessity, such as bay windows with built-in seating or in children's rooms where avoiding yanking is important, designers offer alternatives. Caplan recommends cafe curtains or blinds, particularly relaxed Roman blinds, for their organic feel and movement. Constable concurs that Roman blinds can be a stylish and practical solution where full-length curtains are not viable. Both designers emphasize that if short curtains must be used, they should be intentional in design, with playful fabrics and dimensions that complement the window's shape, rather than appearing as an afterthought. This ongoing debate reflects a broader discussion within interior design about balancing traditional aesthetics with contemporary trends and practical considerations, challenging designers and homeowners to reconsider long-standing rules. #InteriorDesign #CurtainTrends #HomeDecor #WindowTreatments #DesignDebate #Cottagecore #ModernInteriors #DecoratingTips #HomeStyling

The article discusses the growing trend of using curtains as room dividers in both commercial and residential spaces. This approach, referred to as 'soft architecture,' offers a flexible solution for managing open-concept living by creating temporary, intimate zones without the permanence of solid walls. The trend originated in modern office environments to balance open workspaces with the need for private areas, and it has since been adopted in homes to offer similar benefits. One effective method for integrating curtain room dividers is to link them with existing window treatments. This ensures a cohesive design, preventing the divider from appearing out of place. By matching the curtain fabric and style to window coverings, the divider becomes a natural extension of the room's aesthetic. An example cited is an apartment where a curtain divides the kitchen and living space, mirroring the window curtains to create a harmonious look and frame a decorative glass screen. Curtains are also highly beneficial in studio apartments or other open living arrangements where defining public and private areas can be challenging. They offer a soft division that can be easily opened or closed, providing privacy for sleeping quarters or storage areas. This flexibility allows for the transformation of a small, open space into distinct zones, enhancing both functionality and comfort. Studio AC, a Canadian architectural firm, used full-height sheers in a loft-style apartment to conceal a bed box, offering privacy and acoustic dampening while maintaining an open feel when desired. For a sleek and modern look, recessed curtain tracks are recommended. These tracks are installed into the ceiling, minimizing their visual impact when the curtains are not in use. This method allows curtains to serve as a spatial element rather than merely a decorative one, providing a visual boundary without creating a complete auditory barrier. This technique is particularly effective in spaces that require adaptable visual separation without permanent structural changes. Curtains can also be combined with solid room dividers, such as glass doors, to enhance privacy and acoustic insulation. While glass dividers maintain an open aesthetic, they often lack the privacy and sound dampening of solid walls. Adding curtains to these dividers provides the flexibility to create concealed spaces when needed, balancing openness with intimacy. Point Supreme, an Athens-based architectural firm, utilized curtains alongside sliding glass doors in a studio apartment to achieve this dual benefit. Furthermore, curtains can be employed to create temporary rooms or enhance the ambiance of specific areas, such as a dining room. In an open-concept ground floor, track-mounted sheers can encircle a dining area, creating a magical and intimate atmosphere for events like dinner parties while also offering privacy for the kitchen area. This temporary division allows for versatile use of space, adapting to different occasions and needs. #InteriorDesign #RoomDividers #Curtains #HomeDecor #OpenPlanLiving #SpacePlanning #SoftArchitecture #DesignTrends