Kuba Textiles

Nothing makes a space more interesting than authentic, handmade accessories. Here's something that is trendy right now that has been around for a very long time, so it is sure to stand the test of time. This little design tip is something that we think would make the perfect flourish for pretty much any design style, from modern to traditional. We happen to be using it in our most recent project, a contemporary interpretation of the classic French chateau.

Kuba cloth is a handwoven textile that comes from the Congo basin in Central Africa. The Kuba people have been making these gorgeous cloths for hundreds of years, primarily for ceremonial events. The process actually has a great significance in Kuban culture and can involve whole families and clans.

The Kuba people weave their cloth from the fibers of the Raphia Vinifera Palm, which they collect and strip by hand. The various patterns – made through weaving dyed fibers into the base cloth – traditionally distinguish different ethnic groups from one another, but the Kuba people have also made this cloth for export for many years.

[TIPS ON HOW TO DESIGN WITH THE CLOTH]

You can pick up Kuba textiles at several places, like Malabar Coast Living, even online at places like Wisteria.com and at Horchow. The cloth works in all sorts of ways, whether you are looking for runners for your table, pillows or art to display, the intricate patterns and geometric designs of Kuba cloth really bring a room to life.

I personally used it in my Dining room as Art / Window treatment.  You can't tell there's a window there can you?  Instead all you see is a wonderful piece of art work.

If you're interested in seeing Kuba cloth, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art has a collection of some of this amazing craftsmanship.

12 Designer Kitchens ...Get the Look for Less

Check out these budget -savy tips on HGTV's blog post featuring a couple of the kitchens we designed amongst other gerat kitchen designs.  Some great tips on how to get the look for less.

Do you want the look of a designer kitchen without emptying your wallet?   click here to read.

Jewelry for Cabinets

When dressing up for a night on the town, you always make sure to look your best, right? You'd never just pick up that oversized bag /purse you got to go with the brand new Armani dress you have on. There's a time and place for that oversized bag /purse; usually that time is when you have to rush out the door to a jobsite or pick up your kids from school, not when you want to dress to impress.

If you wouldn't skimp on accessories when you want to look your best, why would you when you're redesigning your kitchen or bathroom? Whether you're talking about fashion or design, we all know that accessories look cheap and out-of-place – even if they are small – can ruin a whole look.

That's why, when I'm getting ready to dress up a new kitchen or bathroom, one of my favorite places to find cabinet hardware is Anthropologie.

       

 You can never go wrong with Anthropologie's amazing selection of cabinet knobs. They have some for every style and taste. Just take a look at these accessories!

Like when choosing what to wear, you choose your accessories to complete your look. They are precious and add fun color to your room.

I think hardware can be like jewelry for your cabinets. Take a look at Anthropologie's great selections.

Thankful for our Good Shepherd Donors

Thank you to our Vendors and Tradesmen for your Generous donations of time and product.
TO see "before and afters" of this project , including some really great press, click our Newsletter here. and be sure to subscribe for future newsletters.