You pull out all the stops when guests come to stay, anticipating every need and having it at hand. But why not treat yourself like a pampered guest all the time? Think of it: being like a visitor in your own home, surrounded by all the small, gratifying pleasures that you like to offer others.
Julia West, the mastermind behind the Julia West Home collections of furnishings, linens and custom designs, could be described as a comfort expert. And as with all her projects, she has given considerable thought to both the aesthetic and practical aspects of the cozy new guest wing at her family's 1850s country home in the Caledon Hills of southern Ontario. It's the perfect example of guest-house comfort, with ideas you can use in your own home.
COMFORT CONNECTION
Tucked into a corner niche, a small bed makes a perfect window seat. (An idea to apply in city or country.) Layered on the bed are Julia West Home linens – a denim and striped coverlet (from her Teen de Nimes line), throw cushions in toile and striped cotton with button accents. When the urge to nap arises, a curtain provides privacy. In the winter, more blankets and throws emerge.
COVER TO COVER
Reading material and chairs for company are essentials. This Louis XVI-style chair (above) is one of a suite, which came already upholstered with Napoleonic motifs. West collects eclectic fabrics for her own pleasure as well as for her business, finding that even the small scraps can be used in inventive ways – as a dust jacket for a favourite book, for example. Jug, Putti.
OVER THE TOP
A room with a pastoral view makes every room seem like a haven. Guests can step out from Julia West's upstairs bedroom onto the balcony, gracefully screened by the branches of an apple tree. The upper railing's Union Jack-style woodwork was inspired by designs at Monticello, Thomas Jefferson's home.
AIR APPARENT
Add living fragrance to your rooms. "We grow lavender at the door," says West. "It's as close as we get to the south of France!" Dish, basket, French Country
0 Comment