The Revival of Tufted Furniture

July 24, 2015 by Stoney Creek Furniture

Let me state at the outset that I’m biased. I love tufted furniture – it’s timeless, tailored and exudes elegance. Tufting is incredibly popular right now as we continue our fascination with earlier styles. But wait, let’s go back and learn more before we look at some gorgeous tufted pieces…

History. Furniture tufting began in the late 1800s in Victorian England, as much as 100 years after Philip Stanhope, the Earl of Chesterfield, commissioned the first piece that would take his name. Tufting actually coincided with the advent of the coiled spring and plushier sofas as a means to hold the horsehair stuffing in place. How it’s evolved since then!

Maxwell Collection

Maxwell Collection

What is Tufting? Tufting involves tightly pulling upholstery back and anchoring it with a knot or button. The buttons can be close or farther apart, but are always uniformly placed, usually creating a diamond pattern over the fabric. Typically the buttons match or are covered in the main fabric, but can be in a contrasting colour for more punch.

Condo Tufted Sofa

Condo Tufted Sofa

What are the Advantages? Tufting does anchor a sofa’s stuffing, but its primary function is aesthetic. It creates a very ‘buttoned-down’ traditional look that is wonderfully appealing. It adds depth and visual interest, the indentations creating shadows that highlight the texture of the upholstery – think of velvets or leathers. Never slouchy, tufted furniture has a genteel quality – but also very comfortable.

Tufted Leather Sofa

Tufted Leather Sofa

What’s Available? A tufted sofa is attention getting and usually becomes the focal point of a room, but it’s easily integrated. There are so many styles available – from a very traditional gentlemen’s leather chesterfield to contemporary pieces with minimal tufting. There are scrolled backs, straight backs, squared arms or rolled arms – and of course, every colour, fabric and pattern imaginable, including leathers and suedes. The legs are a great guide to determining the style of a tufted sofa and how well it will fit in your space. Metal, tapered or taller legs are typically more modern while stubbier or balled legs, or a skirt, are definitely traditional. You can mix and match modern pieces with a traditional tufted sofa, but do find a commonality in colour or pattern to ground everything.

Vanna Collection

Vanna Collection

Beyond Sofas. We associate tufting with sofas, but there are many other options too. Accent chairs, dining chairs, ottomans (great as a coffee table!) and headboards are often tufted. I especially love tufted headboards – what else could possibly add so much old world Hollywood glamour to a bedroom.

Elena Collection

Elena Collection

Renaissance Collection

Renaissance Collection

Tufting is incredibly popular right now, but it’s not a trend – it’s a true classic. Invest in a tufted piece and it will bring elegance to your home for years and years to come.

Headboards: What’s new and exciting – and how to decorate the space above.

July 17, 2015 by Stoney Creek Furniture

No doubt the bed is the focal point of your bedroom – and the headboard is the focal point of your bed. If there is one piece of furniture that should be spectacular in your bedroom, this is it. In keeping with that, the diversity of options now available is extraordinary. Of course, a matching headboard that is part of a bedroom suite is always elegant, but your headboard can also stand alone. Here’s an opportunity for contrast: for example, an ornate metal headboard with sleek contemporary furniture or a white uphlostered headboard with dark wood furniture.

Upholstered. Four poster. Metal. Wood. Modern. Runged. Sleigh-style. White. Grey, Black. Oak…with such variety available, it’s hard to know what to choose. Here are some of my favourite new headboard styles. I’m confident that you’ll find your inspiration here.

Gorgeous dark wood and a sloped back make this headboard ideal for traditional/transitional rooms. Note the window above – this placement looks wonderful if your room design/shape permits it.

Westbrooke Collection

Westbrooke Collection

Don’t you love the mix of tones in this wood headboard? The design is simple, classic and timeless.

Madera Collection

Madera Collection

If your preference is modern, this white/chrome headboard is gorgeous; add the upholstery and it is stunning.

Imperia Collection

Imperia Collection

Speaking of stunning, the white inset against this bleached/slightly distressed grayed wood is the type of contrast that’s totally on trend now.

King & Main Collection

King & Main Collection

Say yes to grey with this sleek headboard. Simple and uncomplicated, the framing and unexpected colour creates plenty of impact.

Tivoli Collection

Tivoli Collection

Looking for something more traditional? This King sleigh bed is fit for royalty with just the right amount of detailing and a sophisticated antique finish.

New Lou Collection

New Lou Collection

Do most of these headboards look large for your space?

Don’t worry, there are fabulous options that fit condo living. This Queen Spencer bed and Queen Devon bed are both grand in styling, but scaled a little smaller. Bonus: the Queen Spencer even has built-in storage!

Spencer Collection

Spencer Collection

Devon Collection

Devon Collection

How to decorate the wall above your headboard.

Many of the headboards featured here are dramatic and tall – and as you can see from the images – most look spectacular with absolutely nothing above them. If your headboard has a lower profile, however, there are many choices to accentuate the wall space above:

  • One large print. Fill the space with a single, large art statement.
  • A series of smaller prints. Choose a series of evenly-placed, same-size prints, or create a more random gallery. (Hint: A series of plates works well too)
  • A wall message. Stencilling or vinyl letters enable you to create a custom message (how about your wedding date or you and your partner’s initials?) or perhaps choose an inspiring quote.
  • A mirror or series of mirrors. As with art, one large mirror (I love round mirrors!) or a series of small mirrors will open up the room beautifully.
  • A rug or quilt. Let it hang below the headboard to the floor to add colour and texture.
  • A shelf. A small décor shelf can hold framed prints or other bric a brac. Be sure everything is properly anchored and that the shelf is at the right height to avoid accidents.
  • Whatever! Hang what you love or collect. A collection of hats, an antique window, even a fence gate – don’t limit your imagination to the traditional.

An important note: Always work with the curves and silhouette of the headboard when hanging items above it to give a fitted look.

Fabulous Furniture with Sunbrella Fabrics: A New Era in Upholstery

July 9, 2015 by Stoney Creek Furniture

Every now and then, something comes along in the design world that’s truly unique and exciting. Such is the case with Sunbrella – indoor upholstery that sets a new standard for cleanability and durability. Did I mention that it’s also incredibly beautiful? Read on and learn more…

Origins. As the name implies, Sunbrella has its roots outdoors, where fabric has to withstand the punishment of the elements. For the record, their outdoor furniture performs incredibly well, lasting season after season while still maintaining its vibrancy and integrity.

Now, finally, you can bring that same sturdiness and rugged beauty to indoors…

Introducing Indoor Furniture featuring Sunbrella. Sunbrella states that they are ‘closing the divide between indoors and out’, combining the ‘durability of the best outdoor fabric with the beauty of the most stylish indoor textiles’. Forget everything you know about outdoor fabrics that look and feel like plastic or are stiff and uncomfortable. It feels as good as it wears. There’s no compromise – it’s strong and long-lasting, yet supremely attractive, comfortable and pleasant to the touch.

Sunbrella Upholostery. Photo courtesy of Sunbrella

Photo courtesy of Sunbrella.

Cleanability. One of the best things about eating outdoors is that your upholstered furniture is so simple to clean. Now, imagine indoor upholstered furniture with that same resilience and easy clean up. With Sunbrella, it’s a reality. No more worries about children making a mess, a wine spill or a pet accident. And don’t forget, it looks as beautiful as it performs.

Durability. Furniture is an investment that should last for years without looking worn and tired. Made under strict manufacturing conditions and employing only top notch materials in all aspects of construction, you can be confident that you’ll be enjoying your Sunbrella furniture with family and friends for years.

Selection. The options are as diverse as your taste and décor theme. Anywhere there’s upholstery, Sunbrella offers the perfect alternative – sofas, loveseats, chairs and sectionals.

Sunbrella Upholstery. Photo courtesy of Sunbrella.

Photo courtesy of Sunbrella.

Colours and Patterns. There is a wealth of options – plain or patterned, bright or neutral. Choose from florals, plaids, jacquards, stripes, geometrics and beyond. There are numerous palettes to mix and match within the collection and to coordinate with your existing pieces.

Interested in learning more? Start with this video – it will answer many of your questions:

Sunbrella Indoor Durability Challenge from Sunbrella on Vimeo.

Want to See Sunbrella in Person? Drop by Stoney Creek Furniture and talk to our no-pressure sales associates. I am certain that you’ll be impressed with the quality and fall in love with Sunbrella style.

Trend Alert: Metallic Accents For The Home

July 1, 2015 by Stoney Creek Furniture

Metallics have always been a gorgeous part of home décor. They add sparkle and opulence and reflect light beautifully. Normally, one or two metals are popular as home styles change – but right now – everything goes. It’s wonderfully eclectic and fun. Here are some ways to incorporate the beauty of metallic accents into your space:

Lighting Fixtures. Chandeliers remain a classic, but recently, industrial chic light fixtures have also become very trendy. Unexpected globe placement, unique geometric designs, cast iron construction and even medieval touches are showing up on the best ceilings. Choose something spectacular for your foyer.

Lighting options available at Stoney Creek Furniture

Lighting options available at Stoney Creek Furniture

Hardware. Cabinet and door handles have been low key recently – but that’s changing. A great way to add instant bling to your kitchen and bathrooms is to update your faucets and cabinet hardware. The in colours are brilliant brass, gold and copper.

Walls and Ceilings. There’s a renewed décor focus overhead – giving ceilings centre stage. Light fixtures (like the ones we’ve shown) are making huge statements, but the ceiling itself is also a metal opportunity. Paint it pewter or gold. Wallpaper with metallic touches is also extremely popular, particularly in bedrooms.

Paint and Repurpose. If buying new accessories isn’t in your budget, simply buy paint. Bright gold or silver paint transforms flea market items and gives new life to your find. Consider painting clay flower pots, picture frames (consider a gallery of silver and gold frames), mirror frames, lamp bases – even chair legs! Just a little metallic lights up a room. HINT: Showcase your bling near glass, mirror or crystal for maximum shine.

Furniture. Nickel, cast iron, polished gold and brushed silver elements are incredibly popular on furniture right now. If you aren’t ready to invest in a substantial piece, choose an accent table, curio or even a bar cart – the options are so diverse. Go industrial, contemporary, geometric of glamourous – or something adventurous.

Metallic furniture options available at Stoney Creek Furniture

Metallic furniture options available at Stoney Creek Furniture

Accessories. Be a little daring and amp up your home with bright, bold accessories. Large metal wall clocks make a strong urban statement. For a warmer touch, look for gold vases, metal edged bowls, even metallic cushions and poufs!

Metallic clock available at Stoney Creek Furniture

Metallic clock available at Stoney Creek Furniture

What’s great about today’s metallic accents is the huge, exciting selection. Whatever your home style, whether you like a warm or cool effect, whether you want shine or not – there’s something for you. And because you’re working with smaller pieces, you don’t need to spend a lot to make your home glow!