It’s no secret the furniture and home furnishings world has been flipped on its ear over the last few decades, with the evolution of inexpensive, disposable furniture. While not every consumer subscribes to this philosophy, there are plenty of young consumers who have fueled the growth of that sector. I grew up with a generation of “you bought it and had it forever.” Don’t get me wrong, I have vacillated a little over the years, but I am still of the type for investing in items that have lasting value.
But way too many times I work with homeowners who beat themselves up over a bad decision they can no longer live with. I am always happy to work in or around an item to salvage the investment, but sometimes it’s difficult. Depending on the piece, it can be reupholstered or worst case, repurposed! It’s usually only worth the former if it’s of high quality which goes back to the original old school philosophy of “buy it to last!”
So where does a girl who focuses only on a small segment of the design world going with all of this? Good question! One-word HARDWARE. Or maybe two words, DRAPERY HARDWARE. Here’s where I further espouse this philosophy. Purchase good quality, professional grade hardware. When chosen correctly (and that’s where hiring a professional comes in), it can look great and last for many years. Good design has staying power and style that can transition with many other styles and trends moving forward.
To much surprise, one doesn’t have to spend a fortune on custom drapery hardware to get a beautiful, timeless look. Continuous length rods – not telescoping – with rings and finials that fit and match, will look like you spent a fortune but didn’t! To that end, even using a moderate ready-made drapery, (given it fits properly), on custom hardware can make for well dressed beautiful windows that will last. Of course, there is no substitute for custom treatments!
Finally, as long as the hardware is hung properly and drapes are “dressed”, (the icing on the cake), your treatments will look fantastic! Many installers will do small jobs (and hang other items like art or mirrors while on-site) and it’s a lot less expensive than a divorce attorney! So if you love your home and it makes you happy to surround yourself with beauty, invest in it. You won’t ever regret making those modest investments and you’ll enjoy them for a very long time!
Examples below from left to right: Grommet top, two simple pinch pleated drapes on metal rods and last, a pinch pleated drapery with a french return rod.
