Art is all around, you just need to know where to look. As you may recall, a few months ago, I began working with Lauren and Cheryl of Time for Design, an interior design group based in Doylestown, to freshen up my front sitting room. We collaborated on a fresh look for both my room and their new logo and marketing pieces. Our creativity flowed brilliantly into my dining room where we created this dramatic picture window. As you will see, we pulled our creative natures to build something fun, and a little bit unique.
I chose a striking blue and gray print from one of my favorites, Calico Corners, to frame and add depth to my window while Lauren crafted the panels and provided inspiration for the sheer Linen Romans inside the windows.
Time for Design picked up on my love of vintage, and suggested I use antique buttons and necklaces to accent my new window treatments. I did just that. I made an immediate run to Vintage in Doylestown, where owner, Debi, helped me rummage through every gorgeous button, earring and pin available! We found fantastic glass, metal and plastic gems, which soon became mine, or I should say, my curtain's possessions.
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I then went right upstairs to my own stash of vintage jewelry and pulled out 4 silver charm bracelets which belonged to my dear mother and my great aunt, Grace. They were perfect, nostalgic and lovely. Strung together, they made the tie backs I've always dreamed of! I attached a little cup hook to my wall, and pulled the curtains back easily.
Next, I took these lovely buttons, earrings, and pins from time gone by, and hand-sewed them to the tops of the Linen Romans. We velcroed the romans to the window frame to avoid nail holes and permanent damage, and to provide what I call, "style flexibility". The pretty buttons, pins and earrings appear to be holding the Romans in place, but this is just an illusion.
button windows
close buttons
The blue panels are attached above by 6 decorative iron hooks I found at Pier One for $2 each! I just love how they show off the iron work around the room. They are also very versatile, as Lauren simply placed 3 loops behind the panels, to attach to the hooks. This trick allows me to easily change fabric/panels as seasons or styles change, which is important in my world.
hooks for panels
Ultimately, I am very pleased with the collaboration and results. Not only do I have pretty windows, but I can remember my mom and aunt every time I look outside. And that alone makes me smile. Remember to reuse and rescue fabulous items when decorating, designing, and dressing yourself, your business and your home. ~ Heirloom
window from afar