5 Things Interior Designers focus in on when it comes Textiles

Jeanette Scarboro, CEO of Scarboro Designs and The Hive Experience

Textiles. That word is being used more than ever. I know people in the interior design world who have graduated from places like the School of the Art Institute in Chicago — in Textile! I didn't even know that was a major. 

When I thought about what I would write in this post, my mind raced; I knew I wanted to share all of the increased textile knowledge that has just soared over the past years. Because no matter the client or project, fabric always comes up. When discussing textiles with clients, they’re amazed at the knowledge that flows — I can’t help it because textiles are game changers. Here are five things I love about textiles.

Textiles are super easy to add to your home. First, and foremost, let’s establish that adding texture to your home, in the form of textiles, is super easy, and they’re so welcoming. Textiles include: rugs, pillows, linens, and drapes. I hope I didn’t lose you at drapes! There are so many wonderful, updated fabrics that really frame your windows, and the view you see through your windows. No matter the textile — they bring a home to life! They also wick moisture, add comfort, absorb sound acoustically, and keep colors vibrant.

Textiles perform. Durability is such a hot topic today. So, when dealing with upholstery fabric, be aware that there is a durability test — a rub count. The manufacturer uses a machine to apply a standard amount of pressure and rubs it across the face of the fabric. If the fabric says 3,000 double rubs, that means it will first show wear at that count. The rub count is listed on all the fabrics in my studio, so it’s fun to see a client searching for the number to narrow their choices. Both natural and synthetic fabrics can also be rubbed in a way that provides superior durability. 

In the past, most of my clients never would have dreamed of using a nice fabric with kids and sippy cups around. But even a mother of four, with three of those being boys, can now find fabrics that withstand the wear and tear. And, the right textiles on a pillow can handle people who drool while napping on a pillow; I know, we hope it won’t happen, but you can plan on it!  Rugs will be walked on and unplanned spills are guaranteed, and I won’t even get started on our furry friends that keep homeowners on their game. Still, I have recommended outdoor rugs for indoors many times, because of their durability and the fact that they really no longer look like the outdoor rugs of yesterday.

Textile technology protects. Technology that was previously only available to the trade, and used strictly for commercial, is now available residentially. And that’s only the beginning of how technology has been applied to textiles. There are so many options to be used indoors and outdoors--UV and fade-resistant, mildew-resistant, and even bleach cleanable fabrics. Fabrics are engineered to combine the highest level of design and performance. Other textile technologies are Crypton, where most liquids just roll off, and microbial resistance to control fabric odor and is easy to clean. Nanotex is another fancy name that resists spills and still maintains the natural hand of the fabric as well as being eco-friendly in all its technology. And, finally, did you know there are upholstery and drape flammability tests?

Textiles enhance. When designing a piece of furniture, we always include Frame – Finish – and Fabric. Just trying to land the frame style can be difficult with a custom seating piece such as a chair or sofa, then we have to select the wood finish. Each of our manufacturers has well over 25 or more finish samples. Next, we get to the textiles where we have more specifics such as cotton, polyester, leather, or a blend. Then you have solids and patterns. Creating luxurious vibes can be illuminated through modern-feel textures. 

My favorite for the past few years has been Ombre -- a fabric made by laying in wefts of yarn that are closely colored hues, and that after weaving created a shaded effect. It is purely described as a color fade. When I held an alpaca hombre pillow at market I was in heaven! Botanicals are sophisticated and they are rich in colors, or very tone on tone. Plaids are making a comeback and they are popping up everywhere. Solids are classic and the updated weaves add texture. 

Textiles have sustainability.  Sustainability has led to greater awareness on organics and textiles that are friendly to our environment. I was interviewed about the interior design world’s lean towards going green. Eco Cradle to Cradle Green Organic is the buzz. 

So, with all of this info about textiles in interior design, you are now ready to go into nerd mode! But all of this textile knowledge isn’t just for the cool factor of knowing it, but it’s to help you select the best for your space.

Information on LEED, consult the U.S. Green Building Council at www.usgbc.org

ACT & ACT Guidelines: www.contracttextiles.org

Bella-Dura: www.bella-dura.com

Sunbrella: www.sunbrella.com

Crypton: www.cryptonfabric.com

Crypton Green: www.cryptonfabric.com/eco-friendly-fabric

Sensuede: www.sensuede.com

To learn more about textiles from our lead designer, visit https://www.scarborodesigns.com and read the blog “5 Things Interior Designers focus in on when it comes Textiles”

Get a Room

Have you ever meandered and wondered about the purpose of a particular room and what was it was used for in your own home? I have been in many homes and I am always up for a game of “Name That Room”. With my clients, I will usually ask questions such as “Where did you get that piece of furniture? How is the flooring working out in here? Who hangs out in this area? If they answer with only their cat or dog, then we are in for some serious trouble.

I have always enjoyed thrilling mysteries. You have to piece it all together to figure out what is going on. A room in your house should definitely not be a mystery. I am amazed to hear when people fully decorate a room, have spent some serious money… and it’s an unused space… What?!

Once a plan is in place the mystery of the room can be solved. I have seen this over and over. As life changes take place, rooms need to be re-evaluated.

It’s optimal to come up with a room plan by first dividing it into three categories: Room, Purpose, and Function, and writing them down. One time I was discussing the purpose of a client’s family room (Room) and the husband disagreed on the space being used for homework. He considered the office a more suitable option, but the wife did not want to give up her real estate of doing business in the office and have kids competing for time in her area. They reasoned and came to an agreeable conclusion that they would make the family room a place for children to play, while accommodating an area for study activities (Purpose). It was a success and completed with each child’s individual desks that ran across one wall, a sofa to watch movies and shows, and a game table for activities (Function). They were both on the same plan.

Merriam Webster’s definitions:

Room
A particular portion of space appropriated for occupancy.

Purpose
That which a person sets before himself as an object to be reached or accomplished; the end or aim to which the view is directed in any plan, measure, or exertion; view; aim; design; intention; plan.

Function
The act of executing or performing any duty, office, or calling; performance.

After the task of writing those down is complete, the joy and fun of designing and individualizing the room can begin! Sometimes a room is not being being put to proper use simply because there is not enough light. Limited seating can become a problem if you have a main entertainment or dining area. Flooring can also be problematic and prone to progressive damage, if there is a high amount of foot traffic that flows through a space over time. The elements of design are not only important for an outstanding look, but also go hand-in-hand with functionality. When solid communication takes place it always makes decisions easier and it is well appreciated by every family member. It is a pleasant feeling to know the purpose and function of each room.

What’s Your Project?

This is the question I try to answer on the daily with clients. When I come home and am seeking aesthetic improvements for my personal space, I must ask that question and it can be absolutely daunting!

Many times I listen to the ramblings of all that needs to be accomplished, accompanied of course by several tangents. The ranting continues as I wander aimlessly throughout the house with dissatisfaction in certain areas. Many times there is a blame game and the refereeing skills are needed to calm spousal disagreements.

The value of using a journal is key in so many areas as it can provide clarity for your goals. Projects are goals for your home! I’d like to say I’m competitive and always enjoy turning anything into a sporting match. Create a list of things that you would like to see changed for the better.

Introspectively jot down as many of your projects that come to your mind. After they are written down, the next step is to evaluate and prioritize on whether to tackle smaller or larger projects first and the amount that you can handle at a time. Take note of the estimated costs next to each one, even if it is just a guesstimate.

What’s your budget?
The first thing I do when meeting with a brand new client is ask them, “How much money do you have set aside or what’s your budget?” Rarely do I get a straight answer… [crickets chirping]… because most people simply have not given it much thought. The state of some people’s finances can be a low due to unfortunate or current circumstances or other people just do not want you to know. Many years ago, at the design company I used to work at, I sold a fine quality sofa by credit card for $35,000… Oops! I made the mistake of adding an extra zero while running the card. Designer math can be a little crazy! A few days later, the proper credit was made for the $3,500 sofa. Days and years passed and I still laugh at the thought that at least they were good for the money. Hee! Hee! It’s pleasant to know how much money you have and how you can allocate that into your life.

How much money will be dedicated to this specific project?
The word ‘dedicated’ sounds all-around more welcoming than ‘budgeted’. Spouses can disagree on these things. The wife wants drapes and then suddenly that is not a line item on the budget. I enjoy asking the husband to show me his line item for “techy” gadgets throughout the home by saying “Hey! What cool items are you dreaming of installing in the family room?“ The conversation then progresses to the size of the TV screen and there is no putting this lid back on the bottle. I then begin the negotiation process in order to achieve equal money distribution.

Let the projects begin! Coming up with a Project Plan is your next step, but first get out a pad and pen and write them down.

Why Need a Designer?

The past several years, I’ve been intrigued by this question—or maybe it’s a statement!

With all the articles written, I wonder if people scratch their heads and think if they know whether or not to hire a professional designer. When I show up, I have every intention to fill those shoes. People generally spend a well amount of money on their home and they desire to have it look its absolute best. Clients have intuitive and thoughtful ideas, but soon discover to run into the problem they don’t have the time to finish a design style in a timely manner. They need assistance pulling it together. Interior design is a skill and an art that enhances the quality of your life in that space. They can turn a house into a comforting home and they help tell a visual story. It is a wise and sensible choice.

Many people that I’ve seen make a statement that they can make it on their own, but even you may have a change in directions after reading through a few points.

1. Save Money
   You home is one of the most expensive assets you own. Hiring a designer can assure to keep a plan in place and provide direction were things are to go. Once a space is pulled together, stop the shopping and enjoy. People run out and keep hauling in “stuff” to their home and it fails to produce a showcased design style. Costly mistakes can be avoided by using a professional.
   

2. Plan of Action
   This is where a professional assessment of your situation comes into play. Designers are trained to think spatially and out of the box. They can creatively visualize the end product and the best path on how to get there. A trained eye will notice things that you may miss. Having an initial action plan helps progress your timeline to move along, so there is a clear end result. Make sure to remember to plan your space to fit the way you live life. Your home should reflect your personal style, lifestyle, and attitude towards life. If you look around and your space does not accomplish this, you may want to consider hiring a professional. Due to life changes in your family or moving to brighter seasons, you may need assistance to tweak your space. Some people have time to pull together color, décor, and finishes, while others become quickly overwhelmed. Anyone can purchase resources and move around items in a room, but an interior designer will sit down and connect your personal style and/or along with your family lifestyle to determine the absolute best selections. They can plan your space to fit your life. A layout of the necessary components will help bring that visual story together.
   

3. Resources
   There is a myriad of selections out there in the current marketplace. Frustration and stress can come from the abundance of choices and deciding which ones will complete the desired design decision. This could also lead to a halt and give rise to indecision. It is great to take advantage of resources, but there is so much time wasted researching products, brands and price. There are sources available to designers that are not open to the general public in terms of connections, resources, and general merchandise. The goal is to use the right resources and make sure it pulls things together for a right look. Many times, I have showed a client a product, only to have them pricing me all over the internet. Your ‘designer’ appreciates the fact that they can have the opportunity to inject new products and ideas. When that is done by a professional, there is more value than ordering it online. If you do however decide to order it online, there is still value. I would recommend TheHiveExperience.com as a place for picking curated products to customize your space.
   

4. Connections
   A designer will be able to build stronger bridges between you and your architects and/or contractors. The best results are when this happens early in the process, so there are no mishaps in the overall plan. They speak the same language. Designers are trained to think on a timeline. You do not want to think about where the coffee maker is plugged in after the kitchen is remodeled. The key in today’s marketplace is identifying the most reliable contractors.
   

5. Budget
   Know the amount that you wish to allocate at the beginning of a project. While you can have a low realistic amount and a must-not-go-over amount, a designer will need to know if they are considered in the budget. It allows your designer to allocate time to meet expectation that will be required to complete your project. As a professional, they will move around their schedule to be there when important decisions have to be made. A written contract is wise, so that everyone is communicating and there are no unmet expectations. Designers will look for products that fit your design for your lifestyle, but will also meet your budget expectations. With all the resources out there, it is much easier to achieve goals of excellent design and budget.

The decision to hire an interior designer can seem challenging, but in reality it is not. Hiring a skilled designer will require you to figure out how much help you need and what you enjoy doing yourself. It can be the most rewarding decision you make for a design job of your living space to have quality. Use these tips to guide your decision. It is now yours to make!