Saturday, October 24, 2009
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
The world of fashion and interior design often walk hand in hand. But as Madeline Weinrib, painter and designer, says – “I’m not sure I want to walk around looking like my favorite pillow.” That said, I have created “my” space influenced by the emotions that I feel from fashion. I am a traditionalist at heart. But, I enjoy the trends of every season. The drapery and chair design reflect my traditional side. But, the colors pulled from the fashion certainly speak of the color palette from the 2010 color trends. “My sitting room” reflects the subdued grays, blacks and muted yellows of the fashion design. Yet, the crisp, bright yellow used on the chair as well as the crystal beads used on the drapery and chandelier invoke a feeling of warmth that I could sit and enjoy a cup of coffee and my favorite design book every morning. –Carol Collins, WFCP, Expert- Carol’s Custom Draperies & Interior Design, Denton, TX
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Decorating To-Do List
Try these updates to perk up your house for Fall:
What better way to start than the front door. Purchase an inviting Fall Wreath with beautiful fall leaves and berries.
Add a warm new coat of paint in the kitchen, family room or any room that needs freshening.
Order window fashions that let in natural light - and provide energy efficiency and cut down on heat loss - including Duette® Architella® honeycomb shades, Silhouette® window shadings and more.
Buy throw pillows, accent pieces, towels and table linens in fall colors, floral patterns and textures.
Remove the summer slipcovers and see if the fabric on your furniture pieces needs updating with new upholstery.
Candles and center pieces in Fall colors and scents help to set the mood.
Rearrange the furniture in your living spaces to create a more warm and cozy feel for the winter.
What better way to start than the front door. Purchase an inviting Fall Wreath with beautiful fall leaves and berries.
Add a warm new coat of paint in the kitchen, family room or any room that needs freshening.
Order window fashions that let in natural light - and provide energy efficiency and cut down on heat loss - including Duette® Architella® honeycomb shades, Silhouette® window shadings and more.
Buy throw pillows, accent pieces, towels and table linens in fall colors, floral patterns and textures.
Remove the summer slipcovers and see if the fabric on your furniture pieces needs updating with new upholstery.
Candles and center pieces in Fall colors and scents help to set the mood.
Rearrange the furniture in your living spaces to create a more warm and cozy feel for the winter.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Custom Interiors
From a basic pinch pleat to a sophisticated top treatment for your windows, we can help you design the perfect finishing touch for your blinds, shades and shutters. We offer a full range of custom fabric window treatments including traditional draperies, swags, cornices and valances. Many fine fabrics are available in a wide variety of colors and textures. We can also reupholster that favorite sofa or chair or create beautiful pillows to enhance the beauty of your existing furniture. Let our experienced staff help you select the style and fabrics that best meet your needs, at a price that fits your budget. Our combined experience spans 35 years. We are the experts for your project. Let us start today - Call 940-565-8337
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
"Stop Throwing Money Out The Window"
Wikipedia defines Energy Efficiency as using less energy to provide the same level of energy service. Energy Conservation is broader than energy efficiency in that it encompasses using less energy to achieve a lesser energy service.
Hunter Douglas is the worldwide leader in creating innovative, energy-efficient window fashions that save valuable energy resources and reduce greenouse gas emissions. As Hunter Douglas products serve this larger purpose, they also make home interiors brighter, more beautiful, more private and more comfortable.
In 1985, with the invention of the Duette honeycomb window shade, Hunter Douglas took energy conservation to a whole new level. Recently, Hunter Douglas took energy conservation to an even higher level with the development of the Duette Architella honeycomb shade - a honeycomb within a honeycomb. This new design forms three air pockets to dramatically reduce heat flow at the window.
Installing Hunter Douglas window fashions in your home can reduce heating, cooling and lighting energy needs in three significiant ways:
*Reduce heat flow (heat loss and heat gain) through the windows.
*Control solar heat (heat energy from the sun) by allowing it in winter but reducing it in summer
*Enhance daylighting (the use of natural light) by diffusing and dispersing sunlight deep into a room
When you choose Hunter Douglas for your windows, you're doing more than saving energy resources and money. You're also enhancing the look of your home with remarkable beauty and style at the window.
As a Hunter Douglas Gallery Centurion Dealer, I am committed to offering you the products you need to "Stop Throwing Money Out Your Window" As a decorator I am committeed to offering you the most beautiful dressings for your windows that are also energy efficient to help save you money.
To learn more about energy efficiency and conservation please visit hunterdouglas.com or carolscustomdraperies.hdwfg.com. We are here to show you your options and to help you "Stop Throwing Money Out Your Window" and to help you "Dress Your Windows For Savings.
Hunter Douglas is the worldwide leader in creating innovative, energy-efficient window fashions that save valuable energy resources and reduce greenouse gas emissions. As Hunter Douglas products serve this larger purpose, they also make home interiors brighter, more beautiful, more private and more comfortable.
In 1985, with the invention of the Duette honeycomb window shade, Hunter Douglas took energy conservation to a whole new level. Recently, Hunter Douglas took energy conservation to an even higher level with the development of the Duette Architella honeycomb shade - a honeycomb within a honeycomb. This new design forms three air pockets to dramatically reduce heat flow at the window.
Installing Hunter Douglas window fashions in your home can reduce heating, cooling and lighting energy needs in three significiant ways:
*Reduce heat flow (heat loss and heat gain) through the windows.
*Control solar heat (heat energy from the sun) by allowing it in winter but reducing it in summer
*Enhance daylighting (the use of natural light) by diffusing and dispersing sunlight deep into a room
When you choose Hunter Douglas for your windows, you're doing more than saving energy resources and money. You're also enhancing the look of your home with remarkable beauty and style at the window.
As a Hunter Douglas Gallery Centurion Dealer, I am committed to offering you the products you need to "Stop Throwing Money Out Your Window" As a decorator I am committeed to offering you the most beautiful dressings for your windows that are also energy efficient to help save you money.
To learn more about energy efficiency and conservation please visit hunterdouglas.com or carolscustomdraperies.hdwfg.com. We are here to show you your options and to help you "Stop Throwing Money Out Your Window" and to help you "Dress Your Windows For Savings.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
I Believe in Window Treatments
Well, you might say “Of course she does, window treatments are her business.” But, let’s face it, a bit of fabric in any and every room gives a softening effect. And, the right window treatment can harmonize an interior, provide a needed focal point and offer more than just privacy.
We have a variety of windows here at Robson – there are the Arched and Eyebrow windows, the Bay windows, Corner Windows, French doors and Sliding glass doors. What works best for your window? Here are some recommendations:
Arched and Eyebrow: Many times I’m asked if the arch or eyebrow should be covered. There is no right answer to that question. A blind or shade can be put in the rectangle part of the window and the arch can be left open to allow light to flow into the room. Drapery panels mounted on a beautiful rod to either side of the window can be added to further enhance the beauty of the architecture of the window. For those who would rather cover the shape, add a fan shaped or solid wooden treatment to the top of a blind or shade. Another alternative is a shutter built into the shape of the arch. In any case, don’t forget the fabric.
Bay windows can be dressed with fabric inside the bay or along the front of the bay. Depending on the size and the amount of space above the bay many different types of treatments can be placed inside the area. Panels between the windows work well with swags, tailored valances, gathered valances and cornices as a few suggestions. A drapery panel on either side of the opening with a top treatment can add softness and frame the bay itself without putting any fabric inside the bay itself. Depending, again, on the size of the bay, too much fabric can be overwhelming.
Corner windows can be a beautiful backdrop for a seating area. Panels in the corner as well as on either side of the windows frame the area. Add a cornice treatment covered in a companion fabric to add the crowning touch.
French doors and sliding glass doors often seem to be the hardest windows to drape. When covering the entire glassed area it is wise to extend the drapery past the door on the side that does not open. This way you do not loose too much of your view. Panels hanging from a beautiful wooden pole with rings will serve to enhance any room with a set of French doors or a Sliding glass door. There is always the option of hourglass sheers on the French doors, but you must decide if you want the doors covered at all times.
Fabric at the windows is an important statement. Whether they be for privacy and protection, light and/or sound control, or for color and glamour, choose your fabrics to best suit your needs and desires.
Choosing fabrics can be so much fun. But if you find yourself in a situation that you just can’t make that decision, give me a Window Fashions Expert a call. She will be glad to help you make those choices.
Yes, I believe in Window Treatments – they are my passion.
If you have a designing question or ideas, please don’t hesitate to give me a call or email me at carcollins@msn.com. I invite you to also visit my website at carolscustomdraperies.hdwfg.com for other ideas for your interiors.
And as always - Happy decorating.
Well, you might say “Of course she does, window treatments are her business.” But, let’s face it, a bit of fabric in any and every room gives a softening effect. And, the right window treatment can harmonize an interior, provide a needed focal point and offer more than just privacy.
We have a variety of windows here at Robson – there are the Arched and Eyebrow windows, the Bay windows, Corner Windows, French doors and Sliding glass doors. What works best for your window? Here are some recommendations:
Arched and Eyebrow: Many times I’m asked if the arch or eyebrow should be covered. There is no right answer to that question. A blind or shade can be put in the rectangle part of the window and the arch can be left open to allow light to flow into the room. Drapery panels mounted on a beautiful rod to either side of the window can be added to further enhance the beauty of the architecture of the window. For those who would rather cover the shape, add a fan shaped or solid wooden treatment to the top of a blind or shade. Another alternative is a shutter built into the shape of the arch. In any case, don’t forget the fabric.
Bay windows can be dressed with fabric inside the bay or along the front of the bay. Depending on the size and the amount of space above the bay many different types of treatments can be placed inside the area. Panels between the windows work well with swags, tailored valances, gathered valances and cornices as a few suggestions. A drapery panel on either side of the opening with a top treatment can add softness and frame the bay itself without putting any fabric inside the bay itself. Depending, again, on the size of the bay, too much fabric can be overwhelming.
Corner windows can be a beautiful backdrop for a seating area. Panels in the corner as well as on either side of the windows frame the area. Add a cornice treatment covered in a companion fabric to add the crowning touch.
French doors and sliding glass doors often seem to be the hardest windows to drape. When covering the entire glassed area it is wise to extend the drapery past the door on the side that does not open. This way you do not loose too much of your view. Panels hanging from a beautiful wooden pole with rings will serve to enhance any room with a set of French doors or a Sliding glass door. There is always the option of hourglass sheers on the French doors, but you must decide if you want the doors covered at all times.
Fabric at the windows is an important statement. Whether they be for privacy and protection, light and/or sound control, or for color and glamour, choose your fabrics to best suit your needs and desires.
Choosing fabrics can be so much fun. But if you find yourself in a situation that you just can’t make that decision, give me a Window Fashions Expert a call. She will be glad to help you make those choices.
Yes, I believe in Window Treatments – they are my passion.
If you have a designing question or ideas, please don’t hesitate to give me a call or email me at carcollins@msn.com. I invite you to also visit my website at carolscustomdraperies.hdwfg.com for other ideas for your interiors.
And as always - Happy decorating.
Monday, April 13, 2009
PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
LOCAL DECORATOR SELECTED TO
TEST INTERIOR DESIGN SOFTWARE
Denton, Texas – April 3, 2009 – Carol Collins, the owner of Carol’s Custom Draperies & Interiors in Denton, has been selected as one of 58 national interior designers and decorators to test a new version of Minutes Matter Studio software. There are about 4,000 users of this software in the U.S. Collins is the only designer in Texas participating in the beta test.
Minutes Matter Studio is a computer software program that allows designers to digitally create custom designs that can be individualized by importing actual fabrics, wallpapers, paint colors, and pictures of furniture into the program. Decorators can design directly on a photograph of the client’s room or import specific elements from the room into a custom drawing. The software also has a space planning program for designing room layouts.
Carol has been using the software in her business for the past 5 years. “It’s an incredible program that enables me to show my clients how a new window treatment will look on their windows, what a specific color might look like on their walls, or even how different furniture would look in their rooms - before any fabrication or work begins. It is really exciting to actually have a voice in the development of this software!” For more information on the software, visit www.minutesmatterstudio.com.
Carol’s Custom Draperies & Interiors offers a full array of interior decorating services including Custom Window Treatments and Bedding, Custom Decorative Pillows, Design Services, Room Layouts, Designer Wallpaper, Upholstery, Shutters, Blinds and Shades. If you’d like to see some of Carol’s designs and examples of the computerized renderings, please visit her showroom in downtown Denton or her website at www.carolscustomdraperies.hdwfg.com, or call 940-565-8337.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
LOCAL DECORATOR SELECTED TO
TEST INTERIOR DESIGN SOFTWARE
Denton, Texas – April 3, 2009 – Carol Collins, the owner of Carol’s Custom Draperies & Interiors in Denton, has been selected as one of 58 national interior designers and decorators to test a new version of Minutes Matter Studio software. There are about 4,000 users of this software in the U.S. Collins is the only designer in Texas participating in the beta test.
Minutes Matter Studio is a computer software program that allows designers to digitally create custom designs that can be individualized by importing actual fabrics, wallpapers, paint colors, and pictures of furniture into the program. Decorators can design directly on a photograph of the client’s room or import specific elements from the room into a custom drawing. The software also has a space planning program for designing room layouts.
Carol has been using the software in her business for the past 5 years. “It’s an incredible program that enables me to show my clients how a new window treatment will look on their windows, what a specific color might look like on their walls, or even how different furniture would look in their rooms - before any fabrication or work begins. It is really exciting to actually have a voice in the development of this software!” For more information on the software, visit www.minutesmatterstudio.com.
Carol’s Custom Draperies & Interiors offers a full array of interior decorating services including Custom Window Treatments and Bedding, Custom Decorative Pillows, Design Services, Room Layouts, Designer Wallpaper, Upholstery, Shutters, Blinds and Shades. If you’d like to see some of Carol’s designs and examples of the computerized renderings, please visit her showroom in downtown Denton or her website at www.carolscustomdraperies.hdwfg.com, or call 940-565-8337.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Kitchens
Do you remember as a child when you came home from school – opened the front door – and the smell of the evening’s meal met you? As you entered the kitchen, mom was busy enjoying the preparation. One glance to the countertop and there was the chocolate pie – there was always an evening dessert. Now look ahead 20, 30, 40, even 50 years ahead and how do we see our kitchens? Well, things have certainly changed. We have become so busy – even those who have retired – that we opt for the quick and easy meals or take-out and eat-out. But that doesn’t mean our kitchens shouldn’t be ready for those days when we do prepare the meals. But, kitchens have changed! Energy efficiency is at the top of the list for consideration. Below are a few things we can do to be energy conscious yet have a pleasant atmosphere in which to work.
Energy efficient appliances – the first place we should start. Check your appliance manuals to make sure you are following guidelines for efficiency. i.e., some dishwashers have internal heating elements that allow you to set the water heater at a lower temp. Secondly, make sure your refrigerator door seals are airtight. Vacuum the condenser coils of the refrigerator once a year (unless you have no-clean condenser coils.)
Gas ovens and ranges with automatic, electric ignition systems save gas because a pilot light is not burning continuously.
Recycle, Recycle, Recycle – Kitchen recycling centers take the mess out of managing your recyclables. Modified kitchen cabinets neatly conceal recycling bins. Check out your local home improvement store for options. Stand alone double and triple bins can be purchased at Target.
Energy efficient task lighting and lighting controls – whole house, programmable controls that allow lighting fixtures to perform as task, safety or mood lighting can often offset the cost by the first year’s energy savings.
Always leave the faucet lever in the cold position when using small amounts of water. Left in the hot position energy is used even though the hot water never reaches the faucet.
All that said – cooking can be fun and energy efficient in a well appointed kitchen. Give cooking a try – I do once in a while!
Energy efficient appliances – the first place we should start. Check your appliance manuals to make sure you are following guidelines for efficiency. i.e., some dishwashers have internal heating elements that allow you to set the water heater at a lower temp. Secondly, make sure your refrigerator door seals are airtight. Vacuum the condenser coils of the refrigerator once a year (unless you have no-clean condenser coils.)
Gas ovens and ranges with automatic, electric ignition systems save gas because a pilot light is not burning continuously.
Recycle, Recycle, Recycle – Kitchen recycling centers take the mess out of managing your recyclables. Modified kitchen cabinets neatly conceal recycling bins. Check out your local home improvement store for options. Stand alone double and triple bins can be purchased at Target.
Energy efficient task lighting and lighting controls – whole house, programmable controls that allow lighting fixtures to perform as task, safety or mood lighting can often offset the cost by the first year’s energy savings.
Always leave the faucet lever in the cold position when using small amounts of water. Left in the hot position energy is used even though the hot water never reaches the faucet.
All that said – cooking can be fun and energy efficient in a well appointed kitchen. Give cooking a try – I do once in a while!
Thursday, March 12, 2009
There's More To Life Than Ordinary
I'd like for you to take a step back, look around your home and tell me what you see! Does your home look the way it did 10 years ago, 5 years ago, or how about 1 year ago? Well, maybe it's time to do something out of the ordinary!
If it has been 10 years or more since you spruced up your home, then let's start by looking at the paint on your walls. Many times we paint our walls a neutral color just to be on the safe side. Well, let's get out of that mindset! Neutrals are fine but let's get away from white and off white. Sherwin Williams has a slelection of paints called "Fundamentally Neutral." These neutrals range from Snowfall to Black Swan. Some have brown undertones, others have anywhere from pink to yellow to green to gray undertones. Pick one that will pick up the tones in your furnishings. Then, you might think about adding an accent color to a wall in one or more rooms. It is amazing what a fresh coat of paint can do for your interior.
Now, let's move on to the hangings on your walls. Is it time to replace one or more pictures? Not quite sure you can part with any of them? Well, just move them from one room to another. How about your mirrors? Mirrors can be very inexpensive and add so much depth to any room. Changing the frames on pictures and mirrors will help to refresh the look of your home. Michael's and Hobby Lobby have great half price off framing sales. Watch your Sunday newspaper for these deals.
Accessorizing can make any room look new and refreshed. New pillows and throws on sofa's and chairs add a little spice to any room. And, don't forget about decorative pillows for your bedrooms. Luxurious tassels hanging from lamps, armoires, or door knobs are always an elegant touch.
What about your window treatments and draperies? Whew, how long has it been since they were updated? With the emphasis on energy efficiency today it is important that we put thought into what we have on our windows. There are many energy efficient products on the market that help "Stop the Great Energy Giveaway" as Hunter Douglas puts it. Draperies and Valances not only help with energy savings but also add a beautiful setting in every room. Fabric of any amount on windows help to give warmth and softness to any decor.
Overshelmed by the thought of bringing your decor from ordinary to spectacular? Give Carol a call to help you pull it all together. Carol or any one of her designers can get you started or see you through the entire project. Call 940-565-8337 for an appointment and visit Carol's website at carolscustomdraperies.hdwfg.com - You'll love what you see! Happy Decorating!
If it has been 10 years or more since you spruced up your home, then let's start by looking at the paint on your walls. Many times we paint our walls a neutral color just to be on the safe side. Well, let's get out of that mindset! Neutrals are fine but let's get away from white and off white. Sherwin Williams has a slelection of paints called "Fundamentally Neutral." These neutrals range from Snowfall to Black Swan. Some have brown undertones, others have anywhere from pink to yellow to green to gray undertones. Pick one that will pick up the tones in your furnishings. Then, you might think about adding an accent color to a wall in one or more rooms. It is amazing what a fresh coat of paint can do for your interior.
Now, let's move on to the hangings on your walls. Is it time to replace one or more pictures? Not quite sure you can part with any of them? Well, just move them from one room to another. How about your mirrors? Mirrors can be very inexpensive and add so much depth to any room. Changing the frames on pictures and mirrors will help to refresh the look of your home. Michael's and Hobby Lobby have great half price off framing sales. Watch your Sunday newspaper for these deals.
Accessorizing can make any room look new and refreshed. New pillows and throws on sofa's and chairs add a little spice to any room. And, don't forget about decorative pillows for your bedrooms. Luxurious tassels hanging from lamps, armoires, or door knobs are always an elegant touch.
What about your window treatments and draperies? Whew, how long has it been since they were updated? With the emphasis on energy efficiency today it is important that we put thought into what we have on our windows. There are many energy efficient products on the market that help "Stop the Great Energy Giveaway" as Hunter Douglas puts it. Draperies and Valances not only help with energy savings but also add a beautiful setting in every room. Fabric of any amount on windows help to give warmth and softness to any decor.
Overshelmed by the thought of bringing your decor from ordinary to spectacular? Give Carol a call to help you pull it all together. Carol or any one of her designers can get you started or see you through the entire project. Call 940-565-8337 for an appointment and visit Carol's website at carolscustomdraperies.hdwfg.com - You'll love what you see! Happy Decorating!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
