Do I Really Need a Boxspring?

We hear this question all the time and without fail, the answer is the same, it depends on what type of bed you have.  Elaborating on the topic, beds typically come in three styles:  Headboard only, headboards with rails, and platform beds. 

Headboard only beds are exactly that, Headboard only. With headboards you will need to use a standard metal frame, typically purchased through your local mattress dealer, and attach the metal frame to your headboard with screws. In this type of configuration you will need to use a boxspring. Having a headboard only will also require you to use a bed skirt.

Headboards with rails are also a style that requires you to use a box spring. The bed rails will typically have a metal support system built in (sort of like the metal frame you would use for your headboard) for the box spring but this support system is not designed to hold the mattress. No bed skirt is needed with this style bed but you will want to buy a decorative box spring cover in case a portion of the box spring peaks above the side rails and footboard.

Platform beds are the most popular style bed and tend to have the most contemporary and streamlined look. Platform beds are unlike any of the above mentioned configurations since most platform beds have a box springs built into the platform itself. Depending on the style of bed you purchase, it may still be considered a platform bed but only have slats rather then a built in platform. With these styles of platforms, your use of boxspring depends on the type of mattress that you own. Most mattresses will not require a boxspring in either of these types of platform beds.

Inspire relaxation and rest with a properly dressed bed.

Let’s get in to some pillow talk. There is nothing better then coming home to a bed that’s inviting and sets the mood of calmness and relaxation. We all work hard so it’s important that we treat our bedrooms with a sense of style and comfort that we deserve. These tips on dressing the perfect bed are sure to capture that feeling of rest and relaxation.

The number one rule to remember when creating a luxuriously styled bed is Layer, Layer, Layer! Layers give your bed the look of being full and sumptuous, inviting you to jump in and get cozy.  Layers are what make your bed comfortable and most of all, a place that inspires relaxation and rest.

Here are the bed linen components we are going to use in making our bed:

Fitted Sheet
Flat Sheet
Euro Shams, Standard Shames
Blankets, Quilts and Duvet Covers

We're going to start with the bottom layer and work our way out. The first pieces we are going to work with are the fitted sheet, flat sheets and pillow cases. You can usually find these in sets which is recommended or feel free to mix and match but most importantly, this is the only layer that touches your skin directly so make sure that you get something that is soft and comfortable. Place the fitted sheet on the mattress followed by the flat sheet loosely draped and a pair of pillow cases. 

Now let’s put your creative juices to the test as we start to pull together colors and textiles to match the rest of your room. The bed is the focal point for your room so make use of any other design elements such as rug or drape colors and utilize them to influence your color palette.  Next you will want to add Euro Shams. Euro shams are a large square decorative pillow usually measuring 26”x26”. Typically you will want 2 Euro shams for a queen bed (we like to use three) or 3 euro shams for a King.

In front of your Euro shams you will want to add a pair of Standard shams.  Standard shams are smaller in height than Euro shams which allows you to easily see the larger euro shams which make up the back row of pillows on your bed. Mix and match patterns and materials on your standard and euro shams to create texture and interest. Remember that prints, florals, and strips can go together as long as there is at least one unifying color in each pattern.

Now let’s talk about blankets, quilts, and duvet covers.  The next layer over top of your flat sheet should be your blanket or quilt.  For added luxury and warmth a duvet cover can be added on top. We recommend using a duvet cover in addition to your blanket to add fluff and make the bed look full. To maximize the presentation of your bed fold the flat sheet and blanket 1/4 of the length back and tuck in under the mattress with the fitted sheet. Then fold your duvet cover in half and place on top. Using a thin, feather duvet insert is best, especially when layering.

If the style of your bed requires a bed skirt make sure the skirt grazes the floor but doesn’t drag on the ground.

For a final finishing touch add a boudoir pillow or accent pillow in a coordinating pattern or color. So, get creative and dress your bed to impress!

Sweet dreams!

Designing With Nature.

Nature inspires so many of our greatest contemporary artists. Furniture is no different then art in that today’s successful furniture designers set themselves apart by using nature as their canvas to create masterful pieces of livable art.

When it comes to organic and sustainable furniture design and manufacturing there are only a few we consider at the top of the heap. At the top of our list we find Environment Furniture whose design and dedication to sustainability defines the meaning of what it is to, design with nature. 

"Imaging a place where casual sophistication meets sustainability - this is Environment. More then a furniture company, Environment is, as the dictionary suggests: conditions of the natural world that surround people and affect the way they live. With innovations at its very core Environment, applies an astute sense of aesthetic to a diverse mix of sustainable materials and textures to excite the furniture consumer."

"Eco-friendly design has come a long way. Said to have 'created functional pieces of art that are monuments to sustainable living' it is Environment’s successful experimentation with uncommon woods and textiles that quickly established Environment as a design pioneer. The materials used in Environment's collection are either reclaimed, recycled or repurposed wood and canvas, providing true diversity in both appearance and texture."

With a full line of case goods, you’re sure to find the right piece to adorn your home. Start small, one piece at a time is all it takes to start transforming your home to the sustainable enclave you want it to be.

View the entire line of Environment Furniture at http://www.LOFTHomeDecor.com. 

'Going Green' more like 'Greenwashing'

These last couple of years have seen a shift in manufacturing in the furniture industry. Manufacturers have begun to be more conscious regarding materials and manufacturing practices. Sustainable stewardship and socially responsible business practices are permeating the industry benefiting the communities and natural resources surrounding them. It has been rewarding to see that efforts are being recognized by big business, but there is reason to be cautious. 

As of recent, 'Going Green' has become more of a fashionable trend then a movement. We are surrounded by messages of 'buy green', 'live green', 'go green'. At what point does a consumer break through the deluge of 'green' messages and propaganda? Marketing over substance has begun to take over and consumers have begun to take notice as to what is truth, and what is 'spin'. By all means, we need to continue supporting the cause but with a grain of salt. 

Beware of those 'greenwashing' rather then those who 'go green'. 'Greening' your home is one of the best things you, as a consumer, can do for the environment. The differences though subtle, are meaningful to those who truly support the cause. 

Comments always appreciated.