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Guide to Choosing Rugs

The perfect rug will pull your room together, so many designers start rooms by choosing the rug.  To get you on your way, here are a few practical tips:

Choosing the Right Size and Shape

– Start by making a floorplan.  Measure your room and add all the furniture you’re planning to put in it.

If you’d like a smaller rug, center it under the dining table, coffee table, or main lighting fixture in the room.

If you’d like a larger rug, block out any areas that you know will get a lot of floor traffic and place it in the middle of the space that’s left over.  Sofas and chairs can be placed either completely on top of the rug,  just with the two front legs on the rug, or a mix of both.

Courtesy Safavieh
Courtesy Safavieh

– Allow one to two feet between the edges of the rug and the perimeter of the room. For example, if your room is 12 x 14 ft, and you want a large rug to cover the room, go with a 9 x 12 ft rug.  Let the floor frame your rug.

Courtesy Maria Killam
Courtesy Maria Killam

– Larger rugs will make rooms feel larger. They visually embrace the space better.

Courtesy Emily Henderson
Courtesy Emily Henderson

– Rugs typically come in the following standard sizes: 3 x 5 ft, 4 x 6 ft, 5 x 8 ft, 6 x 9 ft, 8 x 10 ft, 9 x 12 ft, 12 x 14 ft.

– Rectangular rugs look best in rectangular rooms, square rugs look best in square rooms, and round rugs look best in foyers and kids’ rooms.

– In bedrooms, place rugs either completely under the bed or have them cover the bottom 2/3 of the bed. Choose a rug that’s at least two feet wider than your bed so that you can step onto something soft when you get up.

Courtesy Phoebe Howard
Courtesy Phoebe Howard

– In kitchens, use 2′ x 3′ rugs in front of the sink.  In larger spaces, a runner can instantly warm up a room.

– In dining rooms, rugs, should always be centered under the dining table.

Courtesy Annie Selke
Courtesy Annie Selke

Choose the Right Material

– Entryways: in high-traffic entryways, choose a flat-weave rug that can easily be cleaned.  For more formal settings, a wool rug sets an elegant tone for the rest of the house.

– Hallways: synthetics and flat-weave rugs

– Living rooms and dining rooms: cotton or wool rugs

– Kitchens and outdoor: synthetics and flat-weave rugs

Dash and Albert Samode Coral Indoor/Outdoor Rug
Dash and Albert Samode Coral Indoor/Outdoor Rug

– Bedrooms: soft textures like wool and chenille

Choose the Right Design

– Solid rugs are more calming, and they work with either solid or patterned furniture.  Choose a color that complements other accessories in the room, like your artwork or your pillows.

– Patterned designs energize a space, and they look stunning with solid furniture.

– In colder climates, go with rich, saturated colors to create a cozy and intimate mood.  Warm colors like yellow, orange, and red add warmth to rooms with indirect light.

Ralph Lauren's Bedford Living Room, Courtesy Architectural Digest
Ralph Lauren’s Bedford Living Room, Courtesy Architectural Digest

– Lighter colors open up smaller spaces and make them feel larger.  In warmer climates, use ivories, blues, and greens to create a soothing atmosphere.

Garrison Hullinger Interior Design
Garrison Hullinger Interior Design

Caring for your Rug

– Use a rug pad.  This will extend the life of your rug and make sure it does not slip around.

– Vacuum regularly.

– Rotate rug periodically to even out the wear.

– Trim any loose threads with scissors.

– Clean spills immediately by blotting with a clean cloth or paper towel.  Test rug cleaners on an inconspicuous spot before using.

– Professional cleaning recommended on wool rugs.

Looking for a rug?  To view our entire selection of rugs, click here.

 

 

 

 

Product Review: L’Objet Turtle Candle

/ DecorateGift Ideas

Beauty, elegance and imagination are embodied in L’Objet‘s unique style, and their stunning and sensuous Turtle Candle is no exception. But what makes this candle so different?  We asked Eve to tell us after she received hers:

L'Objet Turtle Candle
L’Objet Turtle Candle

 

What were your first impressions when you received the package?

The presentation was beautiful. It was wrapped in a black box with gold trim, in L’Objet‘s signature packaging.

candle6

What did you think of the Limoges porcelain exterior?

I was so impressed by the canister. It has the real shape, color, and texture of a turtle shell! Moving your hand across the top, it feels like it really could be one. The intricately painted details and 14k gold edges really make it unlike any other candle.

just right

How did it smell?

The Pink Champagne scent truly is intoxicating. The candle is very richly saturated, but the fragrance is light and sweet. While slightly floral, the smell was very fresh and crisp, like rain.

lifestyle

Did you light the candle right away?

Of course! I like candles because they make my home feel warm and relaxed, so I lit this one as soon as I got home from work. The scent is very clean and soothing, and within only a minute of lighting the candle, it filled the whole room with fragrance. It was the perfect way to unwind at the end of the day.

fixed

Would you recommend this candle to others?

Absolutely; I say buy two! It is so beautiful and unique that it makes a perfect gift, and it already comes so nicely packaged. But the minute you see or smell it, you will be glad you got one for yourself, too. The best part is, while it will burn up to 50 hours, the gorgeous box will last years after the candle is gone.

For more from L’Objet, click here.

Guide to Choosing Lighting

The key to creating a comfortable lighting environment is to use a mix of general lighting (also called ambient), task lighting (for specific activities, like reading) and accent lighting (to highlight objects or architectural features).

Ambient Lighting

What are recessed lights?

Starting from the ceiling, the most common type of lighting are recessed lights, which are usually installed by a contractor.  Also called can lights or downlights, they look clean overhead and they offer a practical and affordable way to light up a room, but don’t overdo it … you can always add task and accent lighting later.

Courtesy Melanie Freundlich Lighting Design
Courtesy Melanie Freundlich Lighting Design

What are ceiling mounted fixtures?

Ceiling mounted fixtures include chandeliers, pendants, flush mount fixtures.  They can cast light upward or downward, and they add an important decorative element to a room.

– Generally, chandeliers work well in large rooms with high ceilings.  They are perfect for larger spaces like entryways, dining rooms, living rooms.  If you do not have any furniture underneath your chandelier, remember to hang it up high so that the bottom is at least 6’6″ – 7′ from the floor.

Courtesy Homebunch
Courtesy Homebunch

 

Pendants are great for hallways, especially on the first floor.  They light your pathways and add visual interest to these spaces.  Pendants will also make a kitchen feel more like a living space.

Courtesy Veranda Magazine
Courtesy Veranda Magazine

 

Finally, flush mount fixtures are ideal for spaces with lower ceilings.  We love them in secondary bedrooms, mudrooms, large closets, and laundry areas.  But of course, they can look good anywhere:

Kitchen by Zoldan Interiors
Kitchen by Zoldan Interiors

Where do you use wall lamps?

Wall lamps are frequently used in pairs – to frame mirrors, console tables, and sideboards.  They look smashing in powder rooms and master bathrooms.

Courtesy Lucas Studio
Courtesy Lucas Studio

 

As they are installed closer to eye level, it’s a good idea to look for fixtures that look beautiful during the day.  We love ones with mirrored finishes!

Alexa Hampton Madeline Sconce

 

Task Lighting

What are good task lighting fixtures?

For task lighting, the two most popular kinds of fixtures are floor lamps and table lamps.  If you are planning to install floor lamps in the middle of a room, remember to ask your electrician to install outlets nearby.  As for table lamps, this is a good way to bring in a bit of color into a room.

Courtesy Visual Comfort
Courtesy Visual Comfort

Accent Lighting

How do you light artwork?

The most common ways to light artwork is with track and recessed lighting because you have so much control over large areas and they are infinitely flexible.  But for lighting individual pieces, our favorite method is to use picture lights.  They can not only enhance the rest of the lighting fixtures in your space, but they will make your piece look precious.

 

Alexa Hampton Dean Picture Light
Alexa Hampton Dean Picture Light

Outdoor Lighting

What do I need to know about outdoor lighting?

Outdoor lighting is key in creating a welcoming environment as you come up to your home, but it also does something else: it adds an element of security.  Here are a few tips to get you started:

– Lead the way to your front door by using pathway lights that direct the light downward.  Do the same in the back as you move into your yard.

– Add bits of lighting around your flower beds.

– Welcome guests to your front door with a large ceiling mount fixture (pendant lamps are great for two-story homes) or sconces.

– Install sconces around your garage entrance and deck.

– Accent special trees or water features using spotlights.

– Use motion-sensor lights to increase security at night.

 

Courtesy Home Ideas
Courtesy Home Ideas

Energy-Efficient Lighting

What are LED lights?

LED (light-emitting diode) lights are super-efficient forms of lighting.  Compared to incandescent lights, they consume much less energy, last longer, and turn on more quickly.  As they are becoming the standard in residential lighting, you’ll probably be seeing them more frequently when you shop for lighting.

I’m confused by the kinds of LED lights available.  What should I get?

LED lights are available in different color temperatures so you can choose whether you’d like a warmer or cooler light.  The lower the number, the warmer the light.  Here are some suggested guidelines:

– 2700K (warm white) – ideal for homes, restaurants, and hotel lobbies

– 3000K (warm white, slightly cooler) – ideal for stores, offices

– 4000k (neutral white) – ideal for showrooms, offices

– 5000k (cool white) – ideal for museums, jewelry stores, hospitals

In the home, we usually recommend using 2700K throughout.  If you prefer a slightly whiter light for the kitchen, or if you have  a more modern style, then go with a cooler white.

And this is what they look like:

Image courtesy Superbright LEDs

 

Lighting Placement

KITCHEN LIGHTING

I’m designing a new kitchen and I’d like to learn how to light it properly.  Where should I start?

The best kitchens have a combination of overhead lighting (such as recessed lights) and task lighting (like undercabinet lights or pendants above the island) so you can avoid having strong shadows.  Aesthetically, pendant lights work well because they fill up the vertical space between the island and the ceiling.

Designer: Victoria Hagan
Designer: Victoria Hagan

How many pendants should I hang over my island?

Pendants look best in odd numbers, approximately 4 feet are apart.  So, if you had a 6 – 8 ft island, you could hang two lamps above it, whereas for a 9 ft island and above, you’d be better off with three.   For a modern look, choose a cluster of smaller pendants (around 5 in diameter); traditional rooms look best with larger lamps (around 14 in diameter).  Remember to hang them approximately 30 – 36″ above the island so that you can chat comfortably while you are seated.

How many recessed lights do I need in my kitchen?

If there are no tall cabinets in the perimeter of the room, place them 2 feet away from the wall, and every 6 or 7 feet apart.

– You do not need any lights right when you step into a room, so the first one can be placed about 3 – 4 feet inside a room.

– For hallways that are 9 – 14 feet, you’d need two recessed lights; above that, you’d need three or more.  The smaller lights look more elegant, so we usually use 4 in – 5 in diameter lights.

If there are upper cabinets, move them farther away from the wall so they are not shining directly at the edge of your countertop.  We usually center them along the walkway, so they are 3.5 – 4 feet from the wall.

Where do I need additional task lighting?

Under cabinets (to illuminate your countertops) and above the sink.

 

Image courtesy Fine Homebuilding magazine
Image courtesy Fine Homebuilding magazine

 

DINING ROOMS

How do I light my dining room?

We prefer dining rooms to feel more relaxed, so we usually just go with one ceiling fixture (like a chandelier) and two sconces on the wall on either side of the buffet or side table.  We do not used recessed lights unless the room is very large (more than 18 ft along any edge).

Courtesy Thomas Pheasant
Courtesy Thomas Pheasant

BEDROOMS

How much light do I need in a bedroom?

To determine the total number of watts you need in the room, multiply the width of the room (in feet) x the length of the room (in feet) x 1.5.

So for a 14 ft x 14 ft room (14 x 14 x 1.5 = 294), you’d need approximately 300 watts.   This is a lot of lighting, but you would spread this over different lighting sources so you can layer the brightness.  For example in a bedroom, you could do a flushmount ceiling lamp (for general lighting, with 2 x 60 watt bulbs), two bedside lamps (60 watt each), and a desk or floor reading lamp (also 60 watt).  Instead of the ceiling lamp, you could also install recessed lighting.

phoebe_howard_bedroom
Courtesy Phoebe Howard

What size chandelier should I get for my bedroom?

– Add the length and width of your room (in feet), and convert this number to inches.  This will be your diameter.

Example: for a room that is 20 ft long x 15 ft wide, you would need a 35″ rd chandelier.

– Measure the height of your room.  For every foot, allow 3 inches of height for your light fixture.  This will be your height.

Example: for a room that is 9 ft high, you would need a 27″ high chandelier.  But remember, when hanging your chandelier, leave approximately 6’6″ – 7′ clearance from the floor so that you and your guests have ample room to walk under the light fixture.

Courtesy Suzanne Kasler
Courtesy Suzanne Kasler

To view our selection of table lamps, floor lamps, wall lamps, ceiling lamps, bath lamps, and outdoor lighing, click here.

Guide to Choosing Table Linens

UPDATE: Based on your feedback, we’ve created a Tablecloth Finder to help you find the right sized tablecloth — try it out and tell us if you like it!

Table linens are essential for setting the right tone to your event and they can really transform a space.  Choosing a tablecloth is easy; here are answers to our most frequently asked questions.

Determining Quality

What should I look for in fine linens?

Fine linens are characterized by a combination of beautiful materials, expert construction, fine workmanship, and design. Most fine linens are made from linen or cotton because they are durable, absorbent, and soft.

Sferra Acanthus Table Linens

What material should my table linens be made from?

Because they are strong and absorbent, we recommend cotton and linen. While they do require ironing, they are long-lasting and have the most luxurious feel and appearance.

For ease of care, there are high quality easy-care table linen collections available which are either stain-resistant or wrinkle resistant.

What is the difference between linen and cotton?

Both linen and cotton are natural fibers. Linen comes from the flax plant, which grows in the cooler climates of western and northern Europe. Cotton comes from the cotton plant, which grows in hot, humid climates throughout the world.  Both fabrics are highly absorbent, durable, and become softer with use.

There are some subtle differences, however. Linen feels lighter and crisper and becomes whiter with use. It is also highly absorbent and lint-free. Cotton feels more substantial and is will shrink more than linen.

What determines quality in cotton fabrics?

Quality in cotton is primarily based on the length of the fibers. This is because longer fibers can be spun into smoother, stronger, and much finer yarns, which can then be woven to create fabrics that are softer and more durable.  In particular, Egyptian cotton is prized because the humid weather and rich soil around the Nile delta produce especially delicate and long fibers. Cotton grown in Egypt has a staple length of over 2 1/4″, twice the size of that in generic cotton and 60% longer than Pima cotton.

What determines quality in linen fabrics?

Like cotton, higher quality linen fabrics are made from longer fibers because these produce finer and stronger yarns. In addition, these fibers have a very consistent thickness with almost no coarse knots or uneven slubs, resulting in a smooth hand.  Irish and Belgian linen are widely acknowledged to be among the finest linen in the world.

Determining Size

What are standard table linen sizes?

Formal table linens are generously sized for elegant entertaining. Sizes will vary among different collections, but they are generally as follow:

Cocktail Napkin 6″ x 6″
Luncheon Napkin 18″ x 18″
Dinner Napkin 22″ x 22″
Placemat 14″ x 20″
Tablecloth 70″ x 90″ (seats 8)
Tablecloth 70″ x 108″ (seats 10-12)
Tablecloth 70″ x 126″ (seats 12)
Tablecloth 70″ x 144″ (seats 12-14)
Tablecloth 70″ x 162″ (seats 12-14)
Tablecloth 70″ x 180″ (seats 16-18)
Tablecloth 70″ round (seats 4)
Tablecloth 90″ round (seats 8)
Tablecloth 108″ round (seats 10-12)

For more information, view our basic chart of tablecloth sizes and the tables they would fit.

What size tablecloth should I buy?

For formal settings, tablecloths should hang down 10″ to 12″ around the table. More elaborate occasions may call for a drop of anywhere from 15″ to 30″ (all the way to the floor). The longer the drop, the more dramatic the effect. In contrast, casual events call for cloths that have 6″ – 8″ drops.

To calculate the size of the tablecloth you need, measure the length and width of your table and add twice the desired drop to each dimension. For example, if your table measures 48″ wide and 84″ long, and you would like a 12″ drop on each side, you would add 24″ to each dimension:
48″ + 24″ = 72″ wide
84″ + 24″ = 108″ long

For round tables, measure the diameter of your table and add twice the desired drop. Following the example above, 48″ round tables would require 72″ round tablecloths.

What shape should my tablecloth be?

Rectangular table – rectangular tablecloth

Oval table – oval or rectangular tablecloth

Square table – square tablecloth

Round table – round or square tablecloth

My table has several leaves. What size tablecloth should I buy?

If the table is extended and shortened often, purchase separate tablecloths to fit each size. If this is not possible, you can buy a cloth that fits the size of table that is used most often, and purchase more affordable banquet cloths for larger affairs. Another solution is to simply buy a cloth to fit the largest table, and use it at all times. A third possibility is to go with a nice set of placemats and napkins.

Are custom tablecloths available?

Yes. If you can’t find a standard size tablecloth that fits your table, we are happy to offer custom sizes in many collections.

Suggested Quantities

How many table linens do I need?

We recommend that a basic collection of table linens include the following items:

1 Formal Tablecloth
12 Formal Napkins (usually to match the tablecloth)
1 Casual Tablecloth
12 Casual Napkins
12 Placemats
18 Cocktail Napkins
1 Table Liner

Sferra Juliet Easy Care Table Linens

Design Tips

What design should I choose for my table linens?

Generally, formal linens are either solid, woven with a pattern, printed, or embroidered. White and ivory are the most traditional colors.  Printed designs and more colorful embroideries, more suitable for informal settings.

What is a damask?

Unlike a print, a damask or jacquard refers to patterns that are woven into the fabric of the cloth, creating a subtle, yet elegant look.  Although it is a common misconception that the term “damask” refers to a heavy cloth, damask patterns may be woven into fabrics of any weight.

Damask Table Linen

What colors should my table linens be?

White is the most popular color for table linens and it is always appropriate for formal dining. Ivory and off-white colors are a popular second, especially in rooms with warmer tones. Beyond these, colors are wonderful for highlighting special elements in your tabletop collections or to celebrate festive occasions.

Custom Color options by Sferra

What should I consider in choosing linens for a special event?

– Location: Choose colors to complement the existing décor of your dining room. For outdoor events, let the setting be your guide. Generally, bright colors look better in sunny locations, while pastels are wonderful in garden settings.

– Season: Spring and summer colors tend to be lighter, while bolder colors are more appropriate during the colder fall and winter months.

– Theme: Colorful linens are one of the most effective ways to set the mood you want to create. Vibrant colors add drama, while soft colors evoke a more refined atmosphere.

Garnier-Thiebaut Eugenie Candy Tablecloth
Garnier-Thiebaut Eugenie Candy Tablecloth

Protecting Your Tables

Why do I need a table liner?

Although designed to last a lifetime, fine table surfaces are often exposed to excessive wear and tear. To help protect your tables, thick felt table liners are designed to reduce noise and protect your tabletop against heat and scratches. Unlike ordinary liners, these are plush and generously sized (approximately 5″ larger than your table) to extend over the edge of your table in order to create a softer drape underneath your fine linens.  To read more, see Protecting Your Table with Felt Liners.

Felt table liner


What size table liner do I need?

We suggests choosing a table liner that is slightly smaller than your tablecloth (but larger than your table.) Following are our recommended sizes:

Tablecloth Felt Liner
70″ x 90″ 60″ x 82″
70″ x 108″ 60″ x 100″
70″ x 126″ 60″ x 118″
70″ x 144″ 60″ x 136″
70″ x 162″ 60″ x 154″
70″ x 180″ 60″ x 172″
88″ x 106″ 78″ x 96″
88″ x 124″ 78″ x 114″
88″ x 140″ 78″ x 130″
88″ x 160″ 78″ x 150″
70″ round 60″ round
90″ round 80″ round
108″ round 90″ round

Caring for Table Linens

How do I care for my table linens?

Most fine linens can be laundered at home. Cottons and linens should be washed with like colors in cool water using a regular (non-bleach) detergent. Stains should be treated as soon as possible using a stain remover such as our LeBlanc Linen Wash. Bleaching agents such as chlorine, peroxide, or sodium carbonate should not be used.

Linens can be dried, but should be removed from the dryer while slightly damp in order to minimize wrinkles. They should then be spread on a large surface and pressed with a hot iron. When ironing embroideries, place them face down on a towel and press on the reverse side.

Taffetas, silks and laces should generally be dry cleaned, especially if the items are delicate or have decorative fringes.

Are there specialty linen cleaning solutions?

LeBlanc Linen Wash is a specially formulated cleaning solution for laundering fine linens. Its gentle, pH-balanced formula may be used on all natural fibers, synthetics, and blends. We particularly like it because it is concentrated, so it is effective on linens (including vintage linens) without the use of bleach, caustics, or phosphates. LeBlanc Linen Wash has been tested to remove lipstick, jam and jelly, fruit juice, coffee, tea, chocolate, red, wine, grease, cola, ink, and oil stains.

Leblanc Lavender Linen Wash

Do I have to iron my fine table linens?

For formal dining, we do recommend that you iron your fine linens. After washing, simply lay your slightly damp linens on your table over large towels or a felt table liner and press with a hot iron. Of course, you may also have your linens professionally pressed for a small charge.

How do I store my table linens?

Preparing linens for storage is easy. Make sure linens are completely clean and dry. Avoid starching them prior to storage. Fold items gently and store them in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Do not store linens in plastic bags or cedar chests or in basements, attics, or garages to prevent large fluctuations in humidity and temperature. Check your linens periodically to ensure that they are clean and dry.

To view all our collections of table linens, click here.

Guide to Choosing Bath Linens

You use your bathroom every day, so it’s time to show it some love! Bath linens are an everyday essential, so here are some key factors to keep in mind when making your selections.

Sferra

Kassatex

Anali

Understanding Bath Linen Materials

What quality should I look for in bath linens?

Material is the most important consideration when purchasing bath linens. Almost all fine towels are made from cotton (especially Egyptian and Turkish) because it is very absorbent and strong. Microfiber (high performance synthetic fibers that resist shedding and piling) and bamboo are becoming increasingly popular because they are even more absorbent and lighter in weight.

What is terry cloth?

Terry refers to the looped pile you see on most towels. The longer and more tightly packed these loops are, the more absorbent and durable the towel. Terry cloth towels are absorbent because the looped pile in the terry acts like very small sponges.

What is microfiber?

Microfiber is an ultrafine fiber that naturally resists shedding and piling. Compared with other materials, microfibers are twice as fine as silk and three times finer than cotton. Items made from microfiber are extremely absorbent, soft, and lightweight.

Yves Delorme

Pine Cone Hill

Libeco Home

Choosing a Size

What are standard towel sizes?

Sizes will vary among different collections, but they are generally as follow:

Bath Sheet 47″ x 59″
Bath Towel 27″ x 55″
Hand Towel 24″ x 41″
Guest Towel 16″ x 24″
Washcloth 13″ x 13″
Bath Mat 24″ x 35″
Shower Curtain 72″ x 72″

 

Peacock Alley

Kassatex

Pom Pom at Home

How do I select a bathrobe?

When choosing a bathrobe, comfort is key. Pick a material that is soft and absorbent, but not too tight. You want to leave enough room for a bulky sweater underneath during the cold winter months.

Care and Suggested Quantities

How do I care for my bath linens?

You should always launder new towels before using them. Wash with a mild detergent in warm water and then tumble dry. Do not wash with other laundry, as shedding or “linting” almost always occurs with new towels. Avoiding using bleaches or fabric softeners.

How many towels do I need?

 

  • 2 Bath Towels or Bath Sheets per person
  • 2 Hand Towels per person
  • 2 Guest or Fingertip Towels per person
  • 4 Washcloths per person
  • 1 Bath Mat per bathroom
  • 1 Shower Curtain and Liner per bathroom
  • 2 Additional Towel Sets (bath, hand, guest) for each additional bathroom

Anali

Yves Delorme

Sferra

Guide to Choosing Pillows

Choosing the right pillow is essential to a good night’s rest.  In order to decide which pillow is right for you, there are two factors you need to consider:

1. YOUR FIRMNESS LEVEL

Your specific sleeping style will determine the firmness of your pillow.

Stomach sleepers should choose a soft, plump pillow to cushion and gently support the head and neck.

Back sleepers should choose a medium pillow to position the head and neck in line with the natural curvature of the spine.

Side sleepers should choose a firm pillow to provide more support and properly align the head, neck, and shoulders.

Mackenza White Down Pillows
Mackenza White Down Pillows

2. YOUR PREFERRED FILL TYPE

Down: Down is nature’s best fill and insulator.  The most luxurious pillows are  filled with white goose down.

– Because down is so lightweight, it’s one of the most comfortable fills for pillows and comforters.

Down pillows are shaped for comfort and support and mold to your head and neck.

– The higher the fill power, the higher quality the pillow.

– Down pillows last longer and hold up better than synthetic fills.

– Down breathes well, lifting moisture away from the sleeper.

Down/Feather Blend: Down/feather pillows are firmer than down filled pillows. They are an excellent choice for those who want a firmer support.

Comforel/Down Alternative Fill: A wonderful hypoallergenic microfiber fill that offers down-like comfort, loft and softness, at a more economical price than down.  This fill is perfect for sleepers who are allergy prone.

To view our entire selection of down and down alternative pillows, click here.

Guide to Choosing Comforters

It’s easy to find a comforter that’s just right for you. For an unparalleled sleeping experience, you should consider these two factors:

1. YOUR LEVEL OF WARMTH

To select the ideal comforter, you should consider such factors as season, climate, heating system and thermostat setting. Most of our classic comforters are now offered in three weights to best suit your needs.

Summer Weight: Ideal for the warm sleeper, warm climates or when the room temperature is above 70°F.

All Year Weight: The most popular choice, this all-season comforter is perfect for year-round use and for those who keep their bedroom temperature between 60°F and 65°F.

Winter Weight: Ideal for the cold sleeper, cool bedrooms, very cold climates and for those who prefer extra warmth during the winter season.

2. YOUR LEVEL OF QUALITY

Comforters are available with different qualities of fills and shells.  The most affordable generally feature more common fills and lower thread count shells, while the most expensive use rare, exotic fills and finer fabrics.

Introductory: Our most affordable down comforters features a 233 thread count cover filled with 560 fill power white down (example: Mackenza comforters)

Mackenza White Down Duvet
Mackenza White Down Duvet

Classic: These classics feature a soft, 300 thread count cover filled with high loft, and 600 fill power white goose down, guaranteed to provide many years of warmth and pleasure (examples: Cascada Summit, 3-in-1 Anytime, and Buxton comforters)

Cascada Summit White Goose Down Duvet
Cascada Summit White Goose Down Duvet

Best Value: Opting for lasting comfort and value? The comforters in this class offer remarkable quality and sumptuous softness. A high quality white goose down with large and plump clusters, our 650 and 700 fill power white goose downs, provide luxurious warmth with minimum weight. Choice of 330 or 383 thread count cotton sateen gives the finishing touch to this amazing selection (example: Nirvana, Continental, and Somerset comforters).

Somerset Down Duvet
Somerset Down Duvet

Supreme: Exceptional superiority, the 700 and 800 fill power is one of the word’s finest downs. Premium clusters of down deliver superior loft and maximum warmth with minimal weight. Moreover, our silky smooth downproof fabric is made in Europe using the exclusive SanProCare process, known to enhance temperature regulation, absorption and release of moisture, and superior durability (examples: Bernina, Himalaya, and Cardigan comforters).

Bernina Hungarian Down Duvet
Bernina Hungarian Down Duvet

Ultimate: When only the very best will do; our most magnificent comforters offer unparalleled luxury, warmth and craftsmanship. The very largest, softest 920 fill power Siberian, Canadian white goose down, or Eiderdown paired with a choice of Batiste lightweight fabric- or our 100% Pure Silk, Flowering Vine pattern cover, introduce you to the incredible lightness of warmth. These opulent comforters result in extraordinary comfort and promise luscious sleep for years to come (examples: Logana, Eliasa, Snowdon comforters).

Logana Canadian Down Duvet
Logana Canadian Down Duvet

Down Alternative: Filled with Comforel, Innofil, and other similar fibers, these hypoallergenic microfiber fills offer down-like comfort, loft and softness at a more economical price than down. Perfect for sleepers who are allergy prone (examples: Sierra, Astra, Arcadia, and Anti-Allergy Down comforters).

Anti-Allergy Down Alternative Duvet
Anti-Allergy Down Alternative Duvet

 

Tencel Ecofriendly: The combination of high quality 650 fill power white goose down and a Tencel® lyocell cover offers you easy-care comfort that’s soft on you and the environment. Tencel® lyocell is a natural fabric manufactured from wood pulp from Eucalyptus trees, which is extremely silky to the touch, has a very soft finish and is noted for its durability, light weight and strength (example: Innutia comforters).

Innutia Hungarian Down Duvet with Lyocell shell
Innutia Hungarian Down Duvet with Lyocell shell

To view our entire selection of down pillows and comforters, click here.

 

Peacock Alley’s Vienna: A Truly Dreamworthy Matelasse

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The first time I saw Peacock Alley‘s Vienna Collection, the stunning beauty immediately captivated my attention. The elegant pattern, the soft finish, the perfection in every detail – I knew wanted a piece for my own home. After ogling beautiful images and planning the perfect layout for my own boudoir, it became time to experience this perfect, plush cloud for myself.

While the name is inspired by the classic beauty of Austria’s largest city, the compelling medallion quilted pattern was derived from a 17th Century French uniform button. With a swirling, leaf-like pattern inside each perfect circle, the intricacy of this extraordinary collection is as refined and delicate as lace. Choosing the piece and color I preferred most was a difficult decision.

I carefully selected a coverlet in the Taupe color, and eagerly awaited its arrival. As soon as I got the box through my front door, I opened the package and unfolded this masterpiece; And just like a fine work of art, this matelasse was even more lovely in person than it appeared in the photographs.

The subtle sophistication of the pattern and smooth finish of the fabric were welcome additions to my bedroom. I carefully laid the dreamy coverlet across my bed, and waited for nightfall. As the hour grew later, just one yawn was reason enough to usher me to bed.

As I draped myself in the most luxurious beauty and comfort, my eyelids drifted shut, lulling me to sleep. The texture was soft, the fabric lightweight, and the color so subtle that nothing could keep me awake. I took a deep breath in, calmed my senses, and felt this soft, silent beauty cloak me in peace and tranquility.

And for just one moment, I was almost certain I could hear the faint melody of a Viennese Waltz, inviting me into the sweetest of dreams.

Celebrate Bastille Day and Save 20% off ALL Yves Delorme

With summer in full swing, Yves Delorme is helping us celebrate Bastille Day with their biggest sale of the year.

Offering beauty, sophistication and incredible comfort, Yves Delorme has all the finest indulgences for bed and bath. Whether you need something for that perfect summer birthday gift, or want to treat yourself to a little luxury, now is the time to act!  From July 11 – 19, enjoy 20% off all Yves Delorme items.  But hurry, this offer is as fleeting as a soft summer breeze, so be sure to place your order soon!

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Originel Bath Robe

 

Beaucoup Bedding

Losanges Silver Bath Robe

A La Folie Jaune Bedding

Jali Safran Bath Towels

Croisiere Beach Towels

Etoile Bath Towels

Solstice Bedding

Odeon Bath Mat

Spatial Ice Bedding

For more amazing summer styles from Yves Delorme, click here!

Five Easy Steps to Cleaning Your Indoor/Outdoor Rugs

Summer’s here, so it’s the perfect time to celebrate outdoors! Pool parties, barbecues, picnics and brunches are great ways to spend time with friends and family… but what do you do if your indoor/outdoor rug gets dirty? Fear not!  We asked our friends at Dash & Albert, and they shared these easy steps to cleaning indoor/outdoor rugs.

1) Roll up your soiled rug and move it to your cleaning space (showers and tubs are perfect spots!).

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2) Fill a bucket with cool water and your favorite liquid soap or detergent (like our Le Blanc Linen Wash).

Le Blanc Linen Care Original Fragrance

3) Lay the rolled rug in your cleaning space and unroll enough to access the soiled area; rub in your soapy solution onto the rug with a brush.

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4) Rinse the soiled area with clean water.  If the stain has not gone away, keep brushing with your soapy solution until it disappears.

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5) Once the rug is clean, roll it up and lean it against a corner so the water can roll off the carpet and down the drain. When it’s dry, roll out your newly clean carpet and enjoy!

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Love how easy care these are?  To view our entire group of indoor/outdoor rugs, click here.