On a recent trip to the mall I was walking past a newly remodeled Victoria’s Secret store when my inner “girly girl” was inspired. I began to imagine a walk-in closet bigger than most people’s bedrooms so that there would be plenty of room for my ridiculous amount of clothes, shoes, purses... well, hopefully you get the picture.

Along the intensely black walls would be floor to ceiling lacquer cabinets in a gorgeous black cherry, high gloss finish. They most certainly would provide the perfect backdrop for my never-ending wardrobe. On the opposite end of the room would be an entire wall dedicated to my shoe collection. A fully lit display rack with slanted shelves will make choosing which ones to wear even harder since they would all look too nice to touch.

A gorgeous crystal chandelier along with extra track lighting would provide more than enough ambiance to do my hair and make-up at the custom mirrored vanity. With a zebra print chair on casters to sit on, I would feel like a movie star.

A fabulous white shag rug would consume the center of the room that I could run my toes through as I pondered what would become my day’s attire. And although it would probably never be sat on, there would still have to be a hot pink leather chaise lounge in case I ever needed a rest.

Always remember to be on the lookout for inspiration because it is always around! It can come from the smallest things whether it’s nature, a magazine, or even at the mall.

By Bridget Bueche
Interior Designer
Grand Rapids SSI

Dress for Success

Dressing yourself and outfitting your home are strikingly similar processes. While you may select all well-made, high-quality pieces, the look can still fall flat without the correct accessories. Just like your LBD isn’t complete without your keepsake oyster pearls, killer pumps and silk-chiffon shawl, your home too needs certain touches and trinkets to make it – well – homier.

A home should speak to your personal style, just as the outfits you assemble do. Without those hand-picked accessories, knick knacks, and special pieces that you adore, spaces appear generic. Instead, make it pop. Whether it’s a large Christo vase, Maitland Smith table lamp, or an ornate 5’x8’ area rug, accessories are dual-purpose. Primarily, they will connect together design selections you’ve made throughout your room and home, and relay a cohesive message. They also serve as unique, individual representations of your personality, so choose wisely!

Accessories, just like your jewelry and shoes, should work together. That doesn’t mean that they should match, but that they shouldn’t be competing for attention or drawing unwanted attention (you know, the kind you get when you wear that Christmas sweater with the bells that jingle). 

At Scott Shuptrine Interiors we have an array of lighting, area rugs & home décor, and we’ll help you “dress” your home in a way that best exudes your personal style. Come by and see me, I’ll be looking for you. 

By Jacqueline Neil
Interior Designer
Royal Oak SSI

Today I had the pleasure to work with Anne Whitcomb of Eastern Accents.  As we made the beds with layers of bedding we began discussing the luxury linen business.  The one room in my home that I love is my bedroom.  Always cozy and with layers of bedding.  Fine sheets, six down pillows, two euros and two decorative toss pillows.  There is nothing better than coming home from a hectic day and jumping in my luxurious bed. 

Have you ever slept on fine Italian linens? There’s nothing better!  Your bedroom is where you should feel most comfortable and truly be able to relax. Many people overlook the importance of great bedding. A great deal of our life is spent in bed. Sleep is the healthiest thing we can do for ourselves. And you deserve the best.

Eastern Accents has been in the luxury bedding business for 20 years. They specialize in fine crafted fabrics and trims and have some of the most beautiful linens in the market.  Their sheets are the finest Italian milled fabrics.  They’re made with the longest staple Egyptian cotton and provide years of comfort and durability.

Customers are increasingly paying more attention to their bedrooms, the furniture and linens they choose. Eastern Accents makes the process easy by providing coordinated ensembles and options to customize. They offer layers of bedding and accessories such as drapery panels, ottomans, throws and table runners to truly complete the look.

You owe it to yourself to check it out, touch the fabrics and learn about what makes Eastern Accents bedding truly luxurious. 

Sweet dreams! 

By Shannon Growney
Interior Designer
Grand Rapids Gallery