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Decorator Show Houses Are A Labor Of Love Part III

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Decorator show houses are a labor of love continues next month with a virtual presentation in collaboration with Historic Ellicott City (HEC).  On August 19th, 2021, Rhonald Angelo Interiors will transform historic Victorian parlor in Elkridge, MD.  Whether live or virtual you will experience all of the details I am known for in my creative designs.  Click the announcement below to access registration.

Decorator show houses

While there is no admission fee, HEC welcomes your monetary support of its ongoing historic preservation efforts in Howard County, MD.

About HEC

"Historic Ellicott City, Inc., commonly referred to as “HEC,” is a nonprofit volunteer organization founded in 1972 as a result of the merger of Historic Ellicott Mills, Inc. and the Ellicott City Bicentennial Association, Inc. Shortly after its founding, the organization began a long-term effort to restore and operate the B&O Railroad Museum which was damaged in the major flooding from Hurricane Agnes in 1972. At the same time, HEC was actively supporting an effort to establish the Ellicott City Historic District Commission and promoted the designation of the old portion of Ellicott City as an officially recognized member of the National Register of Historic Places."

History of American Victorian

After losing interest in Greco-Roman Classicism the late 19th Century, architects in the U.S. adopted to more domestic styles based on medieval and other non-classical forms of building.  New building technology/industrialization, the earliest forms and  of DIY, foreign inspiration, and plentiful raw goods,  spawned a new age in domestic architecture.   The period covers Gothic Revival and Italianate, through, Romanesque, French Second Empire, Exoticism, Shingle, Stick, and finally Queen Ann Colonial Revival styles. 

Before Image One: Fireplace wall

Before Image Two: Partial view of window wall opposite the fireplace wall.  Note the floor to ceiling windows.

Before Image Three: The bay window opposite the pocket doors. Note the filigree work in the detailed cornice over the window area. 

Preliminary Details

Brief:

  • A fresh look (not too modern or high Victorian) 
  • Comfortable seating
  • Antiques
  • Fine art
  • Piano music
  • Reading/relaxing
  • Entertaining

Finished Floor plan with Dimensions

This creative design will focus on circulation, select antiques, and high-quality furnishings for the activities listed above. What will be your next creative design project?  Joining us on on August 19th will give you a good idea of how Rhonald Angelo Interiors works. If you are ready now, connect with Rhonald Angelo Interiors to meet and discuss your plans. If you are not able to attend the live presentation, the completed design will be available in September 2023 as part of my new coffee table book "Through the Eye of Rhonald Angelo."
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Classic Furnishings From The Masters

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Classic furnishings from the masters that is hand-made or made using specialized equipment  continue to influence furnishings in the 21st Century.  All antiques are not from the 17th, 18th, and 19th  centuries because in our current time antiques exist from the 20th century.  

History

One furniture designer of this period, what I call the second golden age, is none other than Jacques-Emile Ruhlmann, the French furniture designer.  His name is synonymous with the French Art Deco movement from the 1920s.  Anyone who can remember, or has read about the Exposition International de Arts Décoratifs in Paris, will know of Ruhlmann's amazing work.

His designs feature extraordinary wood species, elegant lines, and masterful craftsmanship. I found this article in a vintage issue of Fine Woodworking Magazine article, which has been eloquently compsed by A.E. Chastain Chapman in my travels last year. I decided not and abbreviate the story with my own version, but rather present its original context.    Now, sit back and enjoy this extensive artcle on  a master!

Classic Furnishings

The beauty of fine wood inlaid with ivory details are characteristic of Ruhlmann's work.

Ruhlmann was not a trained as a cabinet maker, rather he was "an innovative designer, not a technician.  He was adament about what he wanted, and how it should look.  Most of his furniture was assembled using traditional joinery methods." Ruhlmann’s work is also celebrated for its veneering, as it presented no limitations in his designs.

Ruhlmann's favorite embellishment was pure ivory.  the fillet's were amazingly thin, 1/32 inches wide, and were inset into the arris where the facets meet.  

Materials

Amboyna wood was a one of the most popular wood species used in Ruhlmann's furniture. The online "Wood-Database" explains,  "Amboyna is technically not a distinct species, but is the name of the burl wood from any of the Pterocarpus species.

Most commonly this is Narra (Pterocarpus indicus), but burl sections of Burma Padauk (Pterocarpus macrocarpus) are also sold under the name Amboyna. The name is derived from Ambon Island in Indonesia, where much of the figured wood is believed to have been initially exported.

Amboyna is among the most expensive and sought-after of all burls, and is frequently sold as veneer or as small turning/craft blanks. Some suppliers specify “Red Amboyna” for material with the typical rich reddish brown heartwood, or “Golden Amboyna” for pieces with lighter yellowish brown coloration.

It’s not unusual for pieces to contain sharply contrasting yellowish sapwood. Amboyna is commonly used for fine furniture, turned objects, electric guitar tops, knife/gun grips, and other small specialty wood items."

"Rhuhlmann's carcase pieces are among his most spectacular works.  Large carcases frequently have oak frames top and bottom, with separate tops and plinths attached. Carcase sides, tops or plinths are veneered over lumbercore (most often pine or poplar with 1/8-in. mahogany crossbandings) or directly onto solid wood, usually oak. Curved carcase parts and doors are either lumbercore with a coopered core, or veneer over shaped solid oak."

Above, Nick Monjardo works on a late Ruhlmann desk in his shop.  The first piece of authentic Ruhlmann furniture found its way into his shop in the late 1970s. Since then, more than half of the work that comes are from Ruhlmann. His finish-preparation procedures are much like whose used by Ruhlmann's finishers.  Read below for the details.

"Ruhlmann wanted to build the best furniture in the world. As far as we're concerned, he did."

Shown above, is Ruhlmann's  "David -Weil" desk, made in 1918-19 for collector David Weil who collected 18th-Century art.   Unfortunately Decorative Arts Restoration is closed, but I can only imagine what their shop looked like on any given day.

New Interpretations

If you are seriously into Ruhlmann's work, there is a company that manufactures reproductions.    "Since 1988 Pollaro Custom Furniture, Inc. has been faithfully creating museum quality furniture of the master works of Ruhlmann. During this period, Pollaro has built furniture using the original proportions and specifications of Ruhlmann.

Pollaro has created strict reproductions of Ruhlmann’s most precious pieces, possessing the exact details of the originals that were produced in Paris during the period 1913 to 1934. From Pollaro Custom Furniture, Inc.’s New Jersey, USA workshop, you can confidently obtain furniture, which pays proper attention to the fine details that set Ruhlmann’s work apart from all others before or since. The essence of Ruhlmann’s lines, proportions and balance are captured."

I am planning a field trip to Pollaro in the near future.  Please contact me if you are considering making an investment, and would like to join me.

These lounge chairs look inviting and note the elegant use of wood and the ball feet.

Rhulmann Daybed

This daybed would be wonderful in front of a window, or bridging a large furniture grouping.

Rhulmann Bench

This bench has THE most elegant lines! Shown upholstered in floral cut silk velvet upholstery.

Decorator Show Houses Are A Labor Of Love Part II

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Decorator Show Houses are a labor of love, continues into 2021.  Again, under different circumstances, the 2021 Ellicott City Decorator Show House would host its grand opening on Thursday evening September 23rd, and on Saturday, September 25th, open its doors for opening day.

This year, there is the same silence as in 2020 with hopes for a return in 2022. HEC is actively searching for the right house. On a more positive note, HEC did host a series related to the show house, that began in March.  You may review the details on the Events page of this website.  I will present my version of a Victorian parlor, located in Elkridge, Maryland in August.  Look for updates in a July blog post.

In the meantime, here are images of the exterior, and interior BEFORE images at HEC’s 2018 Decorator Show House in Woodbine, MD in which I did not participate.

Decorator Show Houses
HEC Decorator Show House Wilderness Farm

This 1907 Victorian farm house is listed on the on the Howard County Historic Sites Inventory of the Maryland Historical Trust, and known as “Wilderness Farm,”  features eclectic architecture, and combines elements of the Victorian, Shingle, Queen Anne and Neo-Classical Revival styles.

The level one floor plan, provided by HEC reveals the octagonal shape of two rooms.  I liked the layout of the first floor because I favour balanced symmetry in architecture and furnishing arrangements. It just feels right in most cases.  However, asymmetry also works well and it depends on the room and selected elements.

Wilderness Farm Floor Plan – Level One

Evaluation One

After I toured the entire house, I settled on the dining room based on the shape, and the richness of the interior architecture. The octagonal shape of the room was a nice change from squares and rectangles.  However, after a second site visit and some discussions with the design chair, and one of my contractor teams, I realized that the work and expense involved in bringing the room around to my standard, could have been substantial.  “What would I do?”

HEC Decorator Show House Dining Room – Fireplace View

This room had, and still has great potential. Note the classical elements in the fireplace surround, and the paneled dado.  Can you see the potential?

This view looks toward the small hallway and into the living room on the other side.  I would liked to have seen a smaller mirror, more in scale with the distance between the dado and the ceiling, and I noted that the junction box location for the surface-mounted luminaire was not quite right. Further, the moulding at the ceiling line looked thin compared to the robust profile and height of the dado, but was typical in some of these farm houses; time for some research. I knew that the wall sconces will definitely change and fortunately the locations were pre-wired. It is interesting how something as simple a different wall sconce can completely change the feeling in a room.

HEC Decorator Show House Dining Room – Alternate View

Evaluation Two

In the second and third images above, you can see the existing condition of the plaster ceiling.  Repairs like these are usually at the designer’s or decorator’s expense, unless the owner agrees to handle some of it. When I designed the library at HEC’s 2016 show house, “Avoca,” I contracted with a team from the Eastern Shore to complete extensive plaster repairs. It was an excellent learning opportunity, however I did not feel the need to repeat it.

The construction was much more involved than I realized, because when you begin working with old plaster and paint, you never know what lies underneath the flaking and rough spots on the surface.  DYI renovators be aware!

Based on all things considered, I passed on this one and looked forward to 2019, “Bell Vue At The Chase,” which turned out to be another amazing journey.  In addition, the property was much farther from my Washington DC base location than the previous properties. In lieu of a 2018 show house room for Rhonald Angelo Interiors, I decided after returning to my design studio, to create a design concept for that dining room; it just spoke to me! I am using the term “concept,” because the show house did take place, and HEC awarded the dining room to another participant.

In my virtual concept of this room, I will maintain the overall feel of the room and house, but with some surprises in the decoration aspects.  One view will appear in my online portfolio at Rhonald Angelo Interiors soon.   I sincerely hope that 2022 marks the return of HEC’s live decorator show house, and I look forward to seeing all of you in person either again, or meeting you for the first time.

Growing Peonies

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Growing peonies begin their journey from shoots, that come from the roots which have eyes. In later winter, shoots appear if planted properly, rise turning to green.  Buds form then around late April begin to swell and to buds, then to blossoms.  It's magical!

My history with this amazing flower begins in the early 20th century when my mom brought peonies to Washington, DC from her original home.  Through the years, I added to them and soon created a substantial peony garden.  Pictured above, is a showing from May 10, 2019.

If you follow me on Instagram or Facebook, you have seen some of them in all of their glory. Growing peonies is one of the easiest plants to start your garden with.  Plant in well-drained soil, and in full sun for the best results.

Pictured below, one of my prized peony plants planted in 2017.  I discovered by accident, that this plant opens and closes according to the daylight.  This is one that I am hoping will come back.  Delicate white petals open to reveal a custard yellow/gold center.

History of Peonies

Judith Irven an accomplished Vermont landscape designer and garden writer, delights in helping people everywhere create beautiful gardens. You can visit her online at OutdoorSpacesVermont.com. She writes, "The people of China have nurtured and cultivated peonies for over two thousand years. Originally they used peonies as a flavoring for food. But since the time of the elegant Tang dynasty (618-907), they bred peonies for their beautiful flowers and grew them in the imperial courts of China. n. Then, about a thousand years ago, the people of Japan also took a liking to growing peonies for their beautiful flowers. In the eighteenth century, peony cultivation and breeding took hold in both England and France."

Because naturally-occurring peony species are genetically related, it means many of them can easily be crossed with one another. So, over the years, hybridizers have produced thousands of different ‘cultivated varieties’—or cultivars—all the plants that today we call ‘peonies’.

Herbaceous Perennials: Most peony cultivars are herbaceous and typically grow about three feet high and up to four feet wide, with blooms up to eight inches in diameter. These will die back to the ground in the winter.

Tree Peonies: There are also a number of beautiful woody-stemmed peony shrubs that stay above ground in the winter and are called ‘tree peonies’. These grow about five feet high and are highly prized for their sumptuous blossoms up to a foot across.

Itoh Hybrids: Toichi Itoh was a skilled Japanese plant breeder and in the 1940’s Itoh experimented with cross-fertilizing tree and herbaceous peonies. The outcome was a totally new class of peony, the lovely ‘intersectionals’ or ‘Itoh hybrids’. Although Itoh hybrids die back in winter like their herbaceous peony parentage, they have also inherited the enormous blooms and finely divided leaves from their tree peony parentage."

My Peony Garden

I have many varieties, and through the years I have become fascinated with the blooming habits and fragrances the emanate from each of them.  Some are more fragrant than others.  The size of the petals and how long they last also depends on the species.  Alas, the one downfall is the wind, but some can withstand more wind than others.  Once the stalks shoot up from the eyes as early as February in some areas, the buds form, then swell.  Often, just as most have burst open, a storm rolls up and at times beats them down.  I have staked them before, but I don't really care for the look as I prefer the casual arrangement they create in nature.  The garden also developed an intense week infestation which is driving me nearly insane by now. In 2021 I intend to try something different.

The Tragedy I (we) Survived

During the last week of March, I was on a mission to finally do something to kill the weed infestation in my back yard and under my peony garden.  Honestly, I don't know where it all came from, but year after year, the peonies triumph and give me the same spectacular showing of grace and beauty.

Unfortunately, as I employed help to deal with the weeds I came home from the grocery store to find that most of the tall stalks, were slumped over like half cooked pasta. WHAT?  What is going on?  After talking to the lawn guy, I found out that he sprayed weed killer underneath the peonies, after I specifically said "don't spray any closer than the edge of the bed (about a foot and a half).  Take a deep breath.  We quickly grabbed the Miracle Gro and attempted to flush out the ground...too late for that. So we had a discussion, in which I remained completely calm and civilized.  The agreement was, we would wait and see what happens, and he would replace what expired.  The white one that opens and closes with the daylight was one that expired (so I thought).

Over the next couple of weeks, I watched some of them attempt to continue growing, but several became gnarled and deformed; rigid like giant paper clips.  Ugh! In late April and early May, I had some blooms, but nothing close to the years before.  I ended up just digging up some of them, and four ended up in the trash can.  The image below is not the worst of them.

Damaged Peonies

Summer came and went and when September rolled around again, I was inspired to do what would ultimately be the best thing for all.  The only way to first, eliminate the weeds was to dig several inches under the ground.  Second, who knows how much residue was left on the peony roots.  So on November 28th, Edgar and his team came and we implemented phase one. 

After digging up the first two, I was surprised at how large the root system was.  I can only imagine what the roots system would look like on a 100-year old plant.

In the above video, you are seeing one of the blush colored plants, that has the highest number of petals.  As I washed away the old soil and weed killer residue, I was a little concerned because the roots were broken off in so many places.  I ordered square pots from Crate and Barrel, and we first placed some scraps of landscape covering on the bottom along with some twigs  so that water can drain.  Peonies must have well drained soil. Mixing two different soils, we carefully placed the roots in making sure that the eyes sit slighting above the surface.  If you plant them too deeply, they will not bloom.  I will have to look for some type of foot to elevate the bottom so that air can pass underneath.

I moved a total of about 25 of them either into the seven pots, or in some other garden areas (without weeds). Above is an image from spring 2021. Unfortunately my Fall 2020 image got deleted last year, but look closely near the blue arrows.  Just imagine the little brown stalks are what it looked like before the this year's growth began. The new shoots are burgundy red, and can appear as early as February if the weather is unseasonably warm.

If you have or desire to experience the beauty of peonies, feel free to reach out to me.  I am almost an expert at this point and would be glad to assist.  For more extensive guidance, reach out to Judith online at the link above.

In closing, just remember, September, October and November are the best times to plant bare root or transplants.  If planting in the early spring, set the ones that are are already budding in pots from your local nursery.

Look for an update in May and keep your fingers crossed for them, and for me!

Living with Antiques

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Are you living with antiques? Antiques range from the smallest teacup to the largest case good, or the most detailed period armchair.  What do these three have in common?  Each is functional and has aesthetic value.  Antiques always have a story behind it, either who made it, who lived with it, and how it fared throughout its lifetime. Antiques have many categories from casegoods (armoires, book cases, linen presses, secretaries, and sideboards), seats (armchairs, side chairs, settees, tables, and sofas), to supporting elements (benches, ottomans, and stools just to name a few.

Rosewood Writing Table

19th Century writing table courtesy of Knightsbridge Charleston, SC

Living with antiques not only means adding depth to an interior setting; many of them are functional.  The writing table featured above has strong and masculine form, and constructed of one of the most beautiful woods available.  This table would work well in the parlor, library, salon, study, bedroom, or foyer.

Finer antiques have lived more than 100 years with minimal damage:

  • Mellowed Gilding to the Bole (pleasing to the eye)
  • Original Hardware (always good)
  • Elegant Patina (balanced or kept out of direct sunlight)
  • Intact Veneer
  • No Chips or Breaks in Glass
  • Absence of Splitting (veneer and solid wood)
  • None to Minimal Liquid Damage (careful owners)

Other antiques have lived more than 100 years and suffered damage:

  • Loss of gilding (this can be attractive depending on the extent)
  • Loss of Hardware (original hardware is best)
  • Sunlight Fading (one sideboard was enhanced from sun fading)
  • Broken legs/feet/glass (never good)
  • Inappropriate Marriages
  • Veneer Splitting (repairs are possible but choose wisely)
  • Liquid Damage (repairable, see above)
  • Unskilled Repairs

 

Regency Chandelier

19th Century Regency chandelier courtesy of Spurgeon Lewis Antiques

Pictured above is an exquisite 19th Century crystal chandelier.  The drops are finely chiseled and tone of the metal is in excellent condition; all original.  This would work beautifully in most rooms that contain antiques and also in modern rooms.

Regency Spoon Chair

19th Century Regency spoon chair courtesy of Klismos Gallery, NYC

Pictured above is a Recency Period (1811 - 1837) spoon-back chair.  The general taste in furnishings during this period in England was that of refinement and elegance.  Antiques of this late Georgian period featured mostly straight lines, dark woods, veneered decoration, and metal accents.  The shape of this chair is appropriate for any modern interior space.

KLISMOS GALLERY

Finally, choosing to live with antiques is a wise investment.  In today's marketplace there are all levels of quality so conduct enough research and buy from an reputable entity.  I have purchased, sold, and traded with numerous companies over the years such as Grant Antiques, Knightsbridge Charleston, Hunters & Gatherers, Spurgeon Lewis, Sparrows French Antiques, and many more.  The gallery shown above, located in New York City, is a wonderful resource for high-quality antiques.  Make an appointment with the proprietor, Collier the next time you are in New York City (Brooklyn).

If you are in, near, or traveling to England, Lennox Cato Antiques & Works of Art is an excellent resource.  "Lennox Cato Antiques and Works of Art was established in 1978 and has matured over the years to become one of the countries most recognised and leading antiques establishments. Always with a keen eye on quality and design, Lennox Cato has built up an international reputation with clients from around the world, selling to both private clients and interior decorators. And, as members of both the BADA (British Antiques Dealers Association) and LAPADA (The Association of Art and Antiques Dealers), clients know they can buy with confidence as a code of practice is abided by."

Lennoxcato George III Side Cabinet

19th Century George III Side Cabinet, Courtesy of Lennox Cato, England

Pictured above is a c. 1810 George III rosewood break-fronted side cabinet.  The color of the rosewood has mellowed into a glorious honey-colored surface and has excellent proportions for a creative design in flat, apartment, or small house.

Lennox Cato Logo

Do you have a new design project on your mind and would like to incorporate high-quality antiques?  If so book your Discovery Call with me and let's talk about it.    

Reupholster or Buy New?

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Reupholster or buy new is an often asked question by many. A woman called me last week to inquire about a sofa she had seen in a friend's garage.  She said it reminded her of something similar she had seen online, and whether she should buy new or reupholster.

Her husband had wanted to sell it, but his wife was still in the deciding mode.  I told her to see if she could find out what the inside looked like, meaning if it had coil springs or sinuous springs, and whether the arm and leg construction was all in one piece. As of this writing, the husband sold it without consulting his wife! I don’t want to know what happened after that, but the point is I would have recommended buying it and having it reupholstered. Why is this?

Because, depending on the age and manufacturer, she could have purchased a sofa with a high-quality construction method that combined coil springs, a kiln-dried hardwood frame, and legs and front of the arm cut from one piece of solid wood. The next question I have received on more than one occasion is “why is reupholstery so expensive?”

There are numerous reasons for this perception:

Accurate knowledge of the upholstery trade is required

        Specialized knowledge and apprenticeship is required for master upholsterers

Someone has to remove the old welting/gimp, tacks, stuffing by hand

It requires practiced skills in using the correct tools

Repairing/securing joints and frame repair requires skill

Retying/replacing springs requires skill

Arranging the stuffing by hand to achieve the proper contour/crown/pleating requires specialized skill

Inserting/applying new nailheads/passamenterie requires skill

 

The Beginning

The video above of my upholsterer at work is why some would say reupholstering is so expensive.  If you think of it this way.  A timeless frame style, made from high-quality materials will last a lifetime.  You only need to reupholster it depending on the wear and tear it receives over time, or as your taste changes.  

Weigh the cost of three "inexpensive" sofas against one "expensive" sofa and in the long run, it is much better to make the investment once.  As for the work involved, I won't deny that as in kitchen and bath renovation, the demolition phase requires the most labor.

Further, there is often the luxury of options, meaning, change a pleat, or add or delete welting, buttons, or other trim. If an upholsterer is really good, he can also make small alterations to the frame, changing the contour, seating configuration, providing it is not an antique with great value. Again, it you start with something timeless, there will be no need for alteration; only enhancement through the use of materials and suitable fabric and trim.

In addition, If you are fortunate to find a good sofa or chair that has coil springs, buy it over a new model with sinuous springs. Coil springing is what you ride on in most automobiles, and when is the last time you took it to the repair shop and they said, "Oh, it's just as we thought, the springs are gone."

Coil springs along with down and feathers or down and high-quality Dacron are what give your furniture that "cloud bounce" as I have termed it.  I had a friend once, who had the most wonderful sofa from Henredon. When you sat on it, it was as if it opened its arms to you and took you in, yet left you assured you were properly supported.  Alas, he sold it and I could have...well I will leave it alone.

The cost depends on who is doing the work, and the amount of work needed.  Sometimes, upon stripping down the piece, the springs are in good condition, so it's only the stuffing that needs work. Other times, the springs may be bent, or the twine might have snapped leaving an uneven contour on the horizontal.

An American Empire Settee's Rebirth

Pictured below is the settee I was called about one evening. My clients wanted something to fill the dining room bay window to provide overflow seating.  The style fits in perfectly, and although it was the perfect size, something about it bothered me initially.  "What was it?"

I thought at one time, something was missing, but upon closer inspection that did not appear to be the case.  I explained I would have a better look once Chris, my upholsterer picked it up.  That was on a Wednesday afternoon.  I got a call on Friday from Chris to come over and take a look.  

When I arrived, he had already begun working on it.  Now what do we have here...?  It only took about two minutes to recognize the error in the prior upholstery job.  The fabric and its button tufting flowed over the seat, and over the front rail.  We looked inside and saw no damage to the frame from the inside, or to the front rail.  

This is why upon first sight, I recognized that something was not quite right proportionally speaking. The frame's surface only needed work on the back side. My client also wanted the new upholstery to be something more contemporary and and absent of all of the Victorian style tufting. 

Shown below is the final result.  It turned out well, and my client was very happy with it.  I specified a blended fiber fabric from Kravet, with a complementary gimp.  Pillow fabrics are Brunschwig et Fils.  Elsewhere in the dining room, a Lee Jofa damask similar to the pillow, covers the mahogany dining chairs.  

When You Own a Highly Valuable Antique

If you own a period antique, you may want to think carefully before sending it out to just anyone. There is a master upholsterer named Bruno Paulin Lopez in New York City. He studied in France and is affiliated with the British School of Upholstery in Great Britain.

His workshop is a place of serious business, with all of the tools of the trade and various projects in progress.  His methods are historic, meaning he only uses horsehair, twine, coil springs, burlap, cotton, and fine fabrics.  To meet a man behind the upholsterer's needle, you can read more about Bruno Lopez here.  

This 18th c. walnut side chair seen on 1st Dibs, and pictured below retails for $42,000.  It would only benefit from the most highly regarded and expert upholstery work.  However, a successful room design does not always require the highest end in seating and upholstery. Good design/upholstery is present in many ranges.

What If you do not own a highly valuable antique?  Regardless, do your best to find a good upholsterer. Sometimes a piece will appeal to you, but you feel that something is not quite right, as i the case of the settee above. Also, consider where it is going, and how you will use it.

Finally, beware of the "70% off sale" and "free shipping" online for new upholstery.  My question is always, "70% off from what?" At least if you go to someone's garage or yard sale you can actually sit on it (depending on condition) and get a better feel for what it is and could become.

In the end, you want to choose something that has classic good lines, will work in your space, and will hold up to continued use. When you secure your "find" contact me to help you make that final decision that you will be happy within the long run; not just for six months.

Oriental Rugs Are Still Desirable

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Oriental Rugs still desirable, and why are they considered by some to be expensive?  The exact origin of rug weaving is unknown, but the oldest pile-woven rug dates back at least 2500 years.  “The Pazyryk carpet was excavated in 1949 from the grave of a Scythian nobleman in the Pazyryk Valley of the Altai Mountains in Siberia.  Radiocarbon testing indicated that the Pazyryk carpet was woven in the 5th century BC.”  Try doing that math!

Antique Pazyryk Carpet Courtesy of Wikipedia

History

Pakistan, Turkey, Russia, and Iran are among the largest exporters of oriental rugs.  Often these rugs feature traditional styles and designs, and chosen carefully, they can enhance or set the stage for an interior design scheme.  Before construction begins, let’s look at colors.  Weavers use blue or indigo, green, yellow, red, rose, white and ivory as the main colors.  These colors also represent various aspects of emotions or society.

For instance, red is for happiness and courage, blue is for honesty or solitude, and brown represents earth and soil.  Directional lines create shapes that can repeat symmetrically or asymmetrically, similar to fabrics. Harmony is the key and these weavers know what they are doing.  Remember, this artform began in the 5th century BC.

The fibers consist of mostly wool, while some include silk, which adds incredible luster and increases the cost.  However, rugs that contain silk, are best placed in low foot traffic areas.  If mostly silk, either use it in the bedroom or hang it on a wall.  Weavers usually use cotton for the base (foundation), known as the “warp and weft”, and you will find rugs with pure silk or wool foundations, as well.  The warp is the vertical and the weft is the horizontal.  Antique and vintage rugs produced before 1856 use natural dyes:

  • Madder root creates red/orange
  • Indigo plants create blue
  • Larkspur creates pale yellow/brown
  • Oak bark creates brown
  • Oak tree galls create black
  • Larkspur combined with indigo produces green
  • Insect secretions and carapace creates reds and purples

Construction

Oriental Rugs

Construction of the knots begins with the warp (vertical) and weft (horizontal) as the base and is usually cotton or wool.  The knots can be ghiordes, jufti, kilim/flatweave, or Senneh.  Next, the detailed weaving begins, using hundreds, sometimes thousands of yarns together to form a pattern or design.  The warp threads become the fringe at the top and bottom.  In some villages, a cartoon or drawing is what the weaver works from.  The over and under the process of weaving is what forms the number of knots per square inch.

In addition, the more knots a rug has, the higher the quality, and the denser the pile.  A high-quality woven rug will look exactly the same on the reverse in terms of the pattern.  If you are shopping by auction or outside of a reputable establishment, examine the backside.  The pattern (not the sheen)  should look exactly like it does on the front. If it looks too different from the front, move on to another rug, or maybe another rug gallery.  Next, examine the warp threads (horizontal).  This forms the rug foundation that terminates with a fringe and should be an extension of the rug ends.

Terminology

Know the terminology.  Hand-knotted is not the same as hand-tufted. Hand-tufted rugs employ someone to (tuft) punch a design into a canvas backing stretched behind a stencil.  This process does not require much training, and you have no investment potential.  What is the point of that?  The lifetime of a hand-tufted rug is about seven years, or less depending on use, while hand-knotted rugs have an average lifespan of 50 years.

Style, Pattern, & Color

Depending on the room design, and the furnishings the rug will make or break the final reslult.  I prefer less of a clash in patterns and it all depends on how it all looks together.  Differing patterns and motifs can look great together as long as there is some common denominator that ties them all together.  I personally like the look of the Kazak.  In ancient times, Kazak rugs represented luxury, prestige, warmth, comfort and were highly regarded status symbols in elite class homes.

These rugs were originally woven with gold and silver strands between the warp and weft threads.  They were placed in churches, palaces and within homes of the elite class.  Rugs were most often used as floor coverings but they also hung from walls and placed on the throne or at the feet of the king.  Kazak rugs are well-recognized for their striking aesthetic, durability and highly saturated naturally-dyed color tones, and have long been collected for their rugged authenticity.

Before what was called a resettlement, Afghan weavers only had access to; black, white, gray, and deep red dyes. After the resettlement, additional colors like deep indigo blues, jewel-toned teals, ivories, and the classic rusty reds became popular. Once dyed with pure vegetable dyes, after the year 2000 synthetic dyes became the norm.

MOR Kazak Courtesy of Main Street Oriental Rugs

In answer to the second question, it takes manpower and skilled craftsmanship, and time to weave a “work-of-art.”  There is no push-the-internet button and receive it in three or four days (instant gratification).  This is an era that I foresee coming to an end because many people will soon realize that throwing away their money on so many disposal goods and design, not only takes its toll on one’s bank account, it’s not good for the planet either.

Investment

The higher the knot count, the more the rug will cost.  It is why Persian rugs are expensive.  Higher knot counts are what create lasting investment value and durability over its lifetime.  Good hand-made rugs also hold their value well, while some greatly appreciate in value.  Finally, there is one important factor that you cannot ignore; individuality.  These rugs add a layer of art, history, and elegance to a room with fine hardwood flooring that is different from any other method.  You certainly won’t walk into your neighbor’s home and see your rug on their floor. Contact me and let’s work together to find the perfect rug for your home.

Hardwood Flooring is a Valuable Asset In Your Home

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Hardwood flooring is a valuable asset in your home. The structure is rising. The foundation is solid, framing is connected, walls, windows, and doors are in.  Next, the plumbing, electrical, and mechanical systems are connected and working.  Now what?  If you are fortunate enough to have genuine hardwood flooring in your home, you will want to refer to this post often. Hardwood flooring is one of the most desired hard surfaces in residential home construction according to most Realtors.

Hardwood Flooring is a Valuable Asset in Your Home

Genuine hardwood flooring is a wise investment in your home.

Construction and Renovation

Spring on its way and that means you might have pending thoughts about enhancements to your home, inside and out. In this first 2021 post, lets focus on the interior of home construction.  If you are building new and have the option, choose hardwood flooring. If you are renovating, choose hardwood flooring. Did you know that hardwood flooring adds lasting value to your home? 

Genuine hardwood flooring offers a lifetime of value with proper care. Furthermore, of all the flooring surfaces in our industry, hardwood is the easiest to keep clean.  What is the best wood floor? Typically, you want to choose a wood that is hard and most available.  Oak, cherry, walnut (my favorite), and mahogany flooring are all excellent choices.

Care 

Daily sweeping or vacuuming is all it takes initially. Choose your brooms wisely by finding one with the exploded ends. If using a vacuum cleaner, use a brush attachment, not the beater bar. If you are a duster, choose a good mop with a 12” to 18” head on it, and if using any special dust mop treatment, apply it to the mop head 12-24 hours before dusting the floor.

I have been inside many homes and was horrified that no “walk-off” mat was present. Of course, I could not keep my thoughts on it to myself. If I come to your home and there is no walk-off mat, you will hear from me (smile)! As you live in your homes, life happens, and with use, your hardwood floors can scratch, dent, stain, gouge, or split.  Grit is worst enemy of hardwood flooring. Why is this? Grit functions like sandpaper against the finish. In my own home, there are two walk-off mats outside, and a third mat inside the entry door.

These classic style walk-off mats from American Floor Mats offers several options, and it depends on the size of the entry and whether you have stone preceding hardwood flooring. If you entertain often this is a must.

Yet, under the best intentions, there will come a time when hardwood flooring needs a more thorough cleaning. The easiest way to clean is with a damp mop. A recommended cleaner is beyond the scope of this post but as a general suggestion, use a good neutral PH cleaner, or one recommended by your flooring installer/product manufacturer. If your floor is sealed with wax or polyurethane and in good condition, water will not penetrate the surface (if it does it is time to refinish). Just be sure to squeeze all of the water out of the mop completely before mopping. Rinse well and repeat.

Perils and Pitfalls

Avoid dragging furnishings across the surface. If you are not able to lift them, be sure you have good felt pads under the legs and change them as needed. Hire professional movers for the big jobs.  Further, wipe liquid spills, including paint spatter quickly, and be aware of long/sharp nails on pet paws, as they can seriously damage hardwood flooring over time.

The pine flooring shown below is long past needing attention.  The finish is completely absent in some areas and the telltale signs of dragging are obvious.  Only a thorough and professional refinishing can restore these floors.  

Before image of damaged pine (softwood) flooring - Avoca - 2016 Historic Ellicott City  Decorator Show House

Maintenance

To best preserve hardwood flooring over the years, first maintain an even balance of humidity (around 40%) in your home to keep boards from developing squeaks, or splitting. Second, pay attention to the sun’s orientation especially during the warm months, or shall we say the roasting months! Pictured above is a beautiful room, but over time that hardwood will fade and dry out.  This is where you may want to think about professional installation of high-quality window film, shades, or solar panels.

Furthermore, in heavy traffic areas, a good wool rug or runner will help protect floors while offering art that you can walk on. Finally, there may come a time when your floors need refinishing. Over the years, grit from the exterior, sunlight exposure, spills, dents scratches and gouges will dull the surface and penetrate into the wood as seen above.  Also note, that pine flooring often found in American historic homes is a softwood and are more susceptible to dents and scratches.  

On the other hand, a old, well-preserved farmhouse would welcome more imperfections. Depending on use, refinish every six to eight years; hardwoods eight to twelve years depending on use. Speaking from experience, I have seen some of the best and worst refinishing jobs. My first advice is to hire a professional company.

The hardwood flooring pictured above passed my finger test, and is an example of floors done well by Tao Contracting, who "...builds additions, remodels existing spaces (kitchen, bath, basement) and can complete repairs and other home improvement projects for residential and small business owners." Look for a new blog post soon highlighting this company.

Professional floor refinishing

DIY is all over the internet, and while I don’t have all of the evidence, I know that the results vary.  There are some who can handle this job, and achieve positive results; I applaud them.  I have also seen the work of some professionally refinished floors, which varies according to skill. If it doesn’t feel like a fine piece of furniture, it wasn’t done properly.  However, if there is any doubt whatsoever; just hire the professionals. Why? First, the equipment is heavy and it is so easy to either hold the sander improperly, or hold it too long in one spot, which leads to dips and valleys in the floor boards; not repairable if too deep.

Second, it is a messy job; the dust is very fine (it seeps through some bags), and careful preparation is important. Why not take a mini vacation to the beach house or to the mountain cabin? When you return, it’s a whole new world inside your home. If needing to make a choice, I recommend waiting on a rug, and paying good money to have the flooring refinished correctly by a professional.  You will cherish your decision 20 years from now.

For further information, access the Hardwood Manufacturers Association.

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