Workhorse Fabric: Warm Earthy Botanical

Kelli and her husband opted to downsize to a condo, leaving behind the hassle of yard work, snow shoveling, and home repairs. As they began the process, they analyzed the furniture in their large home, choosing furniture that fit comfortably in their new condo. Two comfy black leather recliners and a fabulous black plaid chair and ottoman were moved to the condo. Their mission dining room furniture and midcentury end tables also made the move.

They loved what they brought but soon realized they needed help designing a functional yet beautiful living environment.

They needed Buffy’s vision.

During a visit to their condo, Buffy knew they needed an inspirational fabric that tied it all together. What she calls a “workhorse” fabric. See Choosing Inspiration Fabric. The workhorse fabric will have all or most of the colors in a home — including the wood, flooring, paint, and textiles for furniture, rugs, and accents. When beginning the decorating process, Buffy usually helps a customer choose the “workhorse” fabric and then coordinates furniture, rugs, and art. The furniture and wood colors were already established for Kelli, so Buffy found a fabric that incorporated the existing colors. This fabric ties the various wood colors and black furniture together.

Existing fabrics were an excellent start.

This Kalida fabric is described as a multipurpose drapery fabric with a stunning combination of warm, earthy tones, including faded black, rusty rose, nutty brown, and sandy ochre. The simple material comes to life with an antiqued botanical print of floral branches and birds, echoing the look of a time-worn or vintage rug. It is sure to add a rich and worldly layer to any space. What a fabulous choice for Kelli’s condo.

Their condo features light oak flooring and cherry cabinets in the kitchen. Kelli’s furniture was perfect for their condo, but she needed additional furniture, rugs, and window treatments to tie everything together. A studio-sized sofa provides extra seating, and a narrow console table and new brass lamps provide contrast in the entry hall.

The studio-size sofa adds needed seating

Wool sisal rugs add texture and protect the flooring

The grey wool sisal rug in the living room ties in with the colors of the fabric and furniture. A caramel wool sisal rug took the heat out of the dining room furniture’s “orangish” wood.