Lookiloos had the opportunity to sit down with the owners of ISLG Laura Moore and Joan Tesauro in Campbell to talk briefly about trends in interior decorating and ideas for decorating for less.

Q: What is one trend that really stands out that Lookiloos readers should be aware of?

A:  Wallpaper and murals!  They are back, but they are not like awful paper of the 70s.  There are many types these days from fabric to natural weaves to toile.  They come off easily, so you don’t need to worry about being committed forever.

The wallpaper in this sample is done by Lee Jofa’s Tema E Variazione.  Inspired by a French woman the artist saw in a magazine, it is made up of different images of the same woman.  It is unique and interesting for a small space like this bathroom we did for a local client.  It is fun, but not over the top. Cole and Son made this wall covering and their collection is exquisite.

You could do a whole room or just one wall.  The possibilities are endless and could be cost effective on a tight budget.

Q: Are there trends in furniture that someone who is looking for a great bargain should pay attention to?

A: It may not be a trend, but there are a lot of new coatings that can be put on sofas these days to make them last longer and stain resistant.  We see more commercial grade fabrics in homes more often.  It is easy to buy a cheap sofa, but will it last?  So spending a little extra can have big dividends.  People with pets, children or actually sit on their furniture need sturdy, easy to clean materials.  Yet, they should feel good, not stiff.  It is not impossible to find.  A designer can usually connect you with reputable reupholsters and can help you choose the kinds of materials that match your lifestyle.

On another note, a slipcover can change a dated piece of furniture in an instant.  You can have them custom made or buy one at a department store.  It can change the look of a room completely.

Check out the ISLG gallery of ideas for more decorating tips.

ISLG
287 East Campbell
Campbell, CA 95008
(408) 378- 2075

This entry was posted on Tuesday, November 25th, 2008 at 12:15 am and is filed under Decorating, Home Decor, Q & A, Q and A, Sheila, Shopping. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.