Design Tips & Ideas

Over the years, Pate-Meadows Designs has become known for our specific style we like to call "southern casual elegance". Our customers are always asking how they can infuse that style into their own homes and we are happy to share our ideas and encouragement to achieve that special look. Here are a few of our design ideas and tips:

Panel Styles:

The Grommet Top looks great in a loft or industrial setting or if your style leans more toward the minimalist look that is popular today.

The Cuff Top is perfect for a more casual, yet sophisticated look. It's simple, yet interesting lines go great in a family room, den or bedroom.

The Floppy Top is definitely elegantly casual. Its ballgown look fits perfectly in a dining room, living room or master bedroom.

The Julie Anne Panels are a showstopper in almost any room. The dressmaker details of pleated top give any room that designer touch.

Rod Location:

The location of your rod makes a difference in the look as well:

• To show off higher ceilings and make your room seem more spacious, place your rod closer to the ceiling. This works great in rooms with 8-foot ceilings
• For a style that's popular now, place your rod halfway between the top of the window and the ceiling. This works best in rooms with 9 foot ceilings.
• For a more traditional/classic look, place your rod directly above the top of the window. Be sure that your pole is up high enough so that the bottom of the ring is higher than the top of the window molding.

Break or Puddle?

At Pate-Meadows, we tend to like a 1-2 inch break, however, in more formal settings with less traffic, we tend to like a little more on the floor-about 4-6 inches would be perfect. Click here to see examples of the different puddling techniques.

If You Need Privacy:

All of our panels are made to be stationery (non-functional) panels; that is, they are not intended to be opened and closed, but are to be used more for a decorative effect, not for privacy. If you need privacy, all of our panels look fabulous when paired with a set of shutters or wooden blinds. Or if your taste leans more toward the casual, pair them with a woven wood or bamboo shade which is so popular today.

Color Trends:

We often have calls asking what colors to use and this is the most difficult question to answer. For example, dark brown can come in a million different shades and hues. So when trying to decide upon a color we recommend:

Don't try to "match" a wall or fabric color exactly. Our silk panels just need to blend and compliment. Most of our silk panels blend perfectly with the colors that are popular in homes today.

Use darker fabric colors for drama or to add coziness to a large room. Browns, reds, etc. work well with lighter color walls.

Use light or neutral colored fabric for smaller rooms or to open the space up and give a spacious feel. Light or neutral colors work well with a wide range of color schemes

Neutrals are a safe choice and always very versatile.

Embellishments:

Our silk panels are great alone, however, when that extra punch is needed or desired, trims and banding are easily applied to the leading edges for that special custom look. It will definitely make a good thing even better.