Date: September 27, 2017 | Photography: Courtesy of vendors and contributors; Rett Peek | Producer: Tiffany Adams |
Three Arkansas designers share their fabric philosophies along with a few of their favorite selections for draperies, upholstery, and more
All fabrics featured above are available through Cynthia East Fabrics, Little Rock, (501) 663-0460, cynthiaeastfabrics.com
Shayla Copas
Describe your signature aesthetic.
I love classic design elements, and I enjoy layering in a glamorous flair. I like to say that I am a Southern Glam designer to the core!
Are fabrics generally a starting point for you in a room?
We tend to start with textiles when designing a space. Textiles tell a story, and I believe that the first chapter in your design story should be with fabrics that allow inspiration to begin.
Do you have certain materials or textures that you feel work well in specific spaces of the house?
In kitchens, we tend to use stain-repellent fabrics such as Crypton® and indoor/outdoor fabrics. In dens, I love to add drama and warmth with textured velvets, such as Thibaut’s “Etosha” animal-print velvet.
Thibaut’s “Imperial Dragon”
Is there a fabric you are currently excited to try?
Yes, I recently specified Thibaut’s “Imperial Dragon” in coral/turquoise for drapery, and I am excited to see it after installation. The grand chinoiserie dragons and large-scale pattern on this textile make my creative heart sing!
Do you have any advice on using pattern and color?
I would encourage readers to have fun with pattern. Many homeowners are timid when tackling color and pattern. In such case, it is safe to start with a neutral sofa and layer with patterned pillows to add drama to the space. This is noncommittal and can be transitioned effortlessly to something else when the homeowner tires of the pattern.
Shayla Copas Interiors, Little Rock, (501) 258-7396, shaylacopas.com
Alisa Herron
Describe your signature aesthetic.
I love designing with color, pattern, and texture.
What is it about textiles that make them important to the design of a space?
I think textiles are so important to completing the overall design of any project because they soften lines or furnishings, add color, bring in texture, and also help absorb or lessen noise within a room.
What are some of the current trends you see for drapery fabric?
Organic fabrics are very popular. We are also continuing to see light, airy selections that have clean lines, along with doses of pattern and color. We have a huge selection of fabric books in-house and our own workroom for draperies, so I get the opportunity to work with a lot of different styles.
Thibaut’s “Sunburst”
What are some of your favorite choices for upholstery fabric?
I love woven textiles in timeless patterns, such as herringbone. Selections like this will provide comfort and perform well over time.
Is there a fabric you are currently excited to try?
I can’t wait to use embroidered sheers and linens in one of my upcoming projects.
Embellish Interiors by Alisa, Little Rock, (501) 223-6965, myembellishinteriors.com
Laura Bass
Describe your signature aesthetic.
After dressing homes in Central Arkansas for a decade, we are known for exclusive designs and luxurious simplicity. Our designs blend original with polished, while infusing color, sophistication, and a spirited whimsy. I strive to revolutionize the look, feel, and meaning of draperies.
What palettes tend to show up in your work?
For as long as I remember, shades of blue have appealed to me. However, when my clients seek my expertise they are hiring me to recommend a color palette that is determined by their preferences and by the interior architecture of each project. For me, there is really no trend to this. Color signifies the soul of a homeowner, a room or a house, and—as I said and you can see—blue sings to my soul.
Thibaut’s “Mykonos Key”
Do you have any all-time favorite or go-to fabrics?
Thibaut’s “Mykonos Key” is a favorite. This fabric offers a classic version of a Greek key with enriching, bold colors and visual, textural interest for days.
Do you have any rules or tips for choosing drapery fabric?
The fabric I choose for a drapery can set the mood of your entire room. Draperies can make a space feel light and airy, formal and stately, or opulent and luxurious. With that being said, I rarely complete a project without having introduced a linen blend. Linen’s textured weave feels casual yet tailored and filters just the right amount of light.
Laura’s Draperies & Blinds, Little Rock, (501) 256-6725, laurasdraperies.com
