After a large home renovation, two kids and some major career changes, Creative Director Mandy Milks decided she needed a place to escape the daily chaos. That, and a major roof leak, really kick started the project!
Before: "Originally, I blanketed the space in a rich dark charcoal – from the feature wall to the drapery to the bedding (not shown) – thinking it would create a cozy cocoon, but it ended up feeling heavy, dark and closed in. I may or may not have had sheets hanging as temporary sheers for many years!" Recently, there was a leak in the roof that damaged the wall and ceiling, so Mandy decided it was time to makeover the entire space.
The Inspiration: Mandy is drawn to the colours and natural elements of Georgian Bay, Ontario. She used that inspiration as a starting point, and when a sample of Cleary Fabric, Mist landed on her desk, she knew she found the right drapery fabric. "Since I work with colour and pattern all day, I chose more muted, earthy hues and decided to focus on texture."
The Wall: The site line of the wall behind the bed juts out awkwardly, so Mandy made it look more intentional by creating a feature wall. "I really did want the room to feel like a cottage, so I DIYed a simple board and batten style wall and, to ground the space, I painted it one of my favourite Farrow & Ball Paints, Shaded White (201)".
The Reveal: From the custom linen drapes to the woolly Kakisa rug, the theme of this space is layered texture. "The modern platform bed loaded with textured bedding and beautiful Tonic Living pillows is a perfect 'marriage' of both mine and my husband's style."
The Drapery: The focal point of the room are these double, inverted pleat drapery panels hung on a channel track system. "Making the drapery higher and wider completely changed how the space felt. It looks and feels bigger and airier, completely changing the entire room."
"During the day, I use the sheers (made in Ida Embroidered Sheer Fabric and lined with Aura, Cloud) and they filter in the most beautiful light but still provide privacy. At night, I close the Cleary Fabric, Mist panels, which are lined with blackout fabric to knock out the city lights, for a good night sleep."
The channel track, professionally installed by our partner Elegant Installations, supports the heavy weight of the drapery and makes opening and closing smooth and seamless. "I am a channel track convert for life".
The Pillows: By opting for classic white bedding, Mandy can mix and match her pillow combos to suit her mood or change them up seasonally. "My husband has a less is more attitude towards pillows (pffffft), so we kept it pretty simple with two 24" Kenmare Linen Pillows and one of Tonic's new oversized bed bolsters in Viceroy. The rustic linen textures keep things from getting too pretty."
The Details: To help achieve her goal of a calming and streamlined space, Mandy matched the style and wood finish of her bed, bedside tables and wall sconces. "I often mix and match pieces, but in this space it felt better to make it all cohesive and symmetrical. The light oak keeps the space feeling bright and warm." She added simple accessories like the Nicola Marble Tray and the Wilma Planter. "These little Norfolk Pines are a subtle nod to the Jack Pines in Georgian Bay. It truly feels like an escape."
To get a quote on custom drapery for your own space, find more information here.
