August 2012

AUGUST 2012

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HOW-TO HOW-TO recently moved into a new high-rise apartment with large, cold windows, so when it came time to design my bedroom, I knew I wanted to somehow soften the space. A bed canopy, I decided, would do the trick! After a bit of research, I realized that a custom canopy frame is well out of my budget, so instead I made my own. The process was surprisingly easy, and the outcome made a huge impact on my room. If you’re wondering how to warm up your own bedroom, I hope you’ll enjoy this sneak peek into the process of creating your own canopylike structure with just a few curtain rods and a bolt of fabric. L I Fabric Panels From the start, I knew I wanted to make the fabric panels from my favorite Schumacher print, Pyne Hollyhock in charcoal. For the lining, I chose a super-soft velvet from Kravet. Keep in mind, however, that ready-made panels will also do the trick. You’ll need six panels total— four with a standard width of 50" and two with half the standard width—to achieve this look. When determining length, consider whether you want your panels to just barely brush the floor or to gracefully puddle. Pyne Hollyhock Print in Charcoal (174450); Schumacher (to the trade; call 800-253-1200 to purchase) Versailles: $109.80/yard; Kravet (to the trade; call 212-421-6363 to purchase) Curtain Rods Since custom canopy rods can easily cost more than $1,000, I instead looked for an inexpensive curtain rod without finials. I love West Elm’s Industrial Pipe Rods, as they take up little ceiling space and allow for a nearly seamless look. Industrial Pipe Rods: $69–$99; West Elm Power Tools Many apartment buildings have cement ceilings, so installing curtain rods will require a hammer drill. I found this Ryobi model at The Home Depot. It’s effective, easy to handle, and appropriate for a variety of household projects. Ryobi 18-Volt One+ 1/2 in. Cordless Hammer Drill: $69; The Home Depot To anchor my bed, I chose two of Calico Corners’ beautiful Zoe Ottomans upholstered in their Jamil velvet. These pieces are attractive, versatile, and reasonably priced. Zoe Ottoman in Jamil Fabric: $589 + $29.99/yard; Calico Corners Window Treatments; Lillian August Workroom (call 203-847-1596 or visit www.lillianaugust.com) AUGUST 2012 92 Lonny 2012 AUGUST Lonny 93