Question: I live in an antique home. The home dates to 1775. I have swags and jabots in my living room and dining room. I am thinking of changing them. Several people I have talked to say the swags and jabot are out and curtains, drapes, are the in thing. I’d like to keep the tradition of the old home, what do you suggest?
Answer: First of all, to answer your question if swags and jabots out: No, swags and jabots are a traditional window treatment that dates way back to Colonial times and will never be out.
I do understand, however, that you would like a change. I actually just did a home that also dates back to the 1700s. My best advice to you would be to keep the fabrics in period, as much as you can. Use simple linens, raw silk, natural-looking fibers. This will give your rooms a warm and inviting feel. There are so many choices right now for fabric and hardware. Nice, clean lines with single panel draperies on wood rings and rods are a beautiful way to change things up a bit.
If you are using any kind of silk fabric, you must line the drapery. The sun will eat away the fibers if you leave them unlined. Have fun choosing your fabric and design. I also suggest that when making your decisions you call a designer to help choose the fabrics and styles. Designers have so many sources available to them, you will definitely get what you want.
Have fun, and remember to store your swags and jabot carefully; you may want to use them again.
Question: We live in a very contemporary home. There are no fireplaces and we would like to add one to our outdoor deck and also one in our kitchen/living area. We have priced out several ways to do this and each time we are blown away by the cost. Is there anything out there that would work for us?
Answer: Actually there is fairly new product called EcoSmart Fire. It is a new, very contemporary, innovative style of open fireplace. It is environmentally friendly, looks great, and is cost efficient.
The EcoSmart fireplace does not require any permanent fixtures, such as a flue, and does not require a connection for fuel delivery. Because it does not require a flue, all the warmth will stay right in the room where the fireplace is installed.
These can be installed almost anywhere -- apartments, single-family homes, terraces, patios, decks. They are designed to install easily without a lot of fuss. The EcoSmart fireplace is fueled by denatured ethanol. It is available at most home improvement stores. Do not forget to check with your local building department. You may need a permit to install one. Fall is the perfect time to warm up by a fireplace. Enjoy!
author: Linda Brigida