Home Decor BCWJ ~ Page xx October/November 2009

Turning Your Home into a Cozy, Winter Retreat

By: Jennifer FanelliPresident

Signature Design Creations, LLC

P.O. Box 127, Holicong, PA 18928

Experience your desired atmosphere. Using strong architectural detailing, innovative application of materials and creative space planning we create your signature look.From custom designed cabinetry, wall finishes and windowtreatments, to fine furnishings, art and antiques we craft interior spaces that are truly personal and livable. Let us transform your interior visions into reality.

Residential~Commercial~Yacht Interiors

Contact Jennifer Fanelli at 215.796.4943 for a design consultation or email her at Fanelli55@msn.com.

Signature Design Creations215.796.4943

JenniferFanellihasbeendesigninganddecoratingforaslongasshecanremember.Sheturnedherloveand enthusiasmforinteriordesignintoasuccessfulbusiness.SignatureDesignCreations,isan interior design firm that specializes in residential, commercial and yacht interiors. Jennifer creates interiors that are sophisticated, timelessandverylivable.Sheworkshandandhandwithallofherclientstocreateinteriorsthataredistinctlydifferentandunique.Withchoicefabrics,furnishing,architecturalelements,antiquesandfine artworks she has crafted interiors that truly reflect her client’s idealsandtaste.JenniferisanalliedmemberoftheAmericanSocietyforInteriorDesign(ASID)andtheInternationalInteriorDesign Association (IIDA). She graduated from Philadelphia UniversityandholdsaBachelorsofSciencedegreeinInteriorDesign,withaminorinArtHistory.JenniferalsotravelstoEurope on a yearly basis for new ideas and artistic stimulation, to incorporate into her interior design schemes.

1. Upholstered Headboards- The master bed is inevitably the focal point of the master bedroom. By adding an uphol-stered headboard the thought of comfort and softness comes to mind. They can be a very welcoming and stylish feature in a master bedroom. Upholstered headboards are extremely versatile and can be made into a multitude of shapes. Plus they can absorb cold temperatures making your bed extremely cozy and inviting.

2. Decorative Pillows- Place accent pillows in a variety of shapes and sizes on the master bed or accent chairs. Avoid using pillows that are all the same shape and size, remember variety is the spice of life. Even consider using a bolster pillow to add an extra level of interest to the master bed. 3. Accessories- By adding luxurious accessor-ies such as a faux-fur throws or silk pillows you can add an extra level of glamour and comfort to any area of the master bedroom. Faintly scented candles are another great way to create

Oneof themostmagnificentseasons in Bucks County is the fall. The landscape is dotted with colors of red, orange and gold. Pumpkins are popping up on door steps throughout neighborhoods. The smell of pumpkin pie fills the air withthe wonderful aroma of nutmeg, cinnamon and other fragrant spices. With all this natural splendor, however, seasonal changes bring with it a lot of work to prepare for autumn and winters cold and long stay. From raking leaves to chopping firewood,organizingourhomes,storing summer décor and furnishings, and pulling out the winter clothes (fall is all about preparation) preparing ourselves of for what lies ahead. When we think of preparing our homes for the colder season ahead, we begin to think about what room could we transform into a more cozy, warm and inviting retreat for us to enjoy until the spring? Any room in the house can be turned into a cozy winter retreat just by following some of these ideas. For this article, however, we will be focusing on the Master Bedroom and how to transform it into a luxurious, winter escape.

The first thing that you aregoing to need to do is to take a survey of your bedroom and determine what items should stay, what items should be removed, and what items can be added to the room. Sometime relocating the bed to a different area within the space can completely open up and transform a room into a new environment. Keep in mind that the master bedroom should be open and clutter free not confining.Thegoalistocreatea space that is inviting, intimate and extremely comfortable.

Next think about color. What kind of feelings do you want to evoke when you enter the room? Choose your bedroom colors with care. A very dramatic color may seem like a great idea, but youwillprobablyfindithardtorelax and sleep next to a vibrant color every night. Stay away from aggressive colors such as red or bright yellows. I would suggest selecting soft, warm and muted colors because they tend to be more conducive to rest and relaxation. Think of colors like muted yellows, pale blues or greens, soft peaches or pinks. Rich chocolates are also great too.

Once you have selected your color scheme, you can now select the fabric for your window, bedding and upholstered items. Fabrics that are neutral in color with nubby textures tend to lend themselves to a more contemporary feeling. Velvets and silks can create a bedroom that has an air of luxury, opulence and sophistication. While cotton florals and toilestend create a more traditional andrefinedfeel.

Once you have selected your fabrics and colors for your Master bedroom, how do you tie the room together? You can tie a room together by simply by repeating the fabric. For example you can edge the draperies with the fabric that was used on the bed, or repeat the fabric that was used on the curtains on make throw pillows, or pick up the colors on the bed and curtains and use it elsewhere in the room.

Adding a great upholstered piece of furniture such as a comfortable chair and ottoman or chaise lounge will also help to create a more relaxing and inviting atmosphere. They not only add a cozy area for reading with a cup hot of tea but also provide a great place for a cat nap on a cold afternoon.

Finally, let’s now consider the details and accessories that you may want to add to your master bedroom. Details and accessories add interest and movement throughout a space. Selecting the right ones can truly make a room unforgettable. Listed below are my top three items to consider when converting your master bedroom in to a relaxing, cozy winter retreat.

Remember, any of these steps can be applied to any part of your home to create a comfortable and cozy retreat. Chose your colors carefully, select fabrics that inspire you and most of all have fun because creating a happy and welcoming home is what seasonal decorating is all about!

added ambiance and relaxation. Bedding sheets are extremely important feature to consider in any bedroom. Consider buying high treads count cotton sheets and down filled pillows. Thesesheets not only have a soft, satiny feel when next to the skin but add another level of comfort and luxury. Plus they are extremely durable.