Get the Look for Less: Blue Velvet

This year, one of the biggest trends in furniture has been texture. Combining buttery soft fabric with rich jewel tones makes for an opulent statement piece that will easily become the talking point of your living room.

Hold up…that sounds expensive.

Yes, it can be! But when you want to keep your look updated without draining your bank account, we’ve got your back. While we’ve seen some luxurious-looking sofas at luxurious prices (would you believe over $6000?), we at Red Knot have curated some beautiful new pieces that embody the trend of touchably soft fabric.

Among these is the Bliss sofa by Actona, priced at an incredible $799. This sofa combines our signature modern style with the “it” texture of the year, in a stunning sapphire hue. We still can’t figure out what the name describes: what you feel when you sit on the sofa, or your relief when you don’t break the bank buying it!

The best part? There’s a matching chair.

What do you think about the texture trend? Let us know in the comments below!

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Image credits: Clockwise HOUZZ Reginald SofaLUXEDECOR Innovation Cassius Sofa2MODERN Gus Margot SofaHOUZZ Bowery Petite Velvet Sofa

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The Nailhead Trend

A traditional design that goes back over 400 years is still getting a ton of attention.  Since its appearance in the 17th century, we’ve seen it all over- in all works of furniture, decor, and even fashion.  And trust us when we say it is not tacky.

It’s actually… nailheads.

Nailhead

The nailhead trend was introduced primarily in upholstered furniture as a practical way for craftsmen to secure fabric or leather to the wooden frame.  Trims such as gimp were also added beneath the nails to conceal tacked upholstery.  Attention to detail is important as craftsmen need to ensure each nail head is perfectly spaced.  The first puncture of the nailhead is vital to avoid damaging the upholstery.  Think, the timeless Chesterfield sofa.

Today we see nailhead and rivets as decorative elements, evoking history and allure in any piece.  From modern to traditional design styles, it is no longer just for upholstery. The nailhead trim can be seen in occasional tables, headboards, dressers, and other accent furniture.  It gives definition to the shape, texture and color of the piece, accentuating the space.

 

Here’s some of our lineup from Red Knot:

NailheadTrend

Aren’t they absolutely stunning?  It’s no wonder decorative nailheads continue to be a growing trend in the furnishings industry.  It’s an extra detail that makes a statement, adding glamour with a little bit of edge.

So if you want your furniture to be a stud, go nail ’em.

To Sectional or Not to Sectional

– that is the question.

For most furniture shoppers, this is one of the most common questions one ponders before finalizing their living room seating of choice.   Different factors come into play when making this decision such as looks, size, room layout, comfort, lifestyle and personal preference.

Let’s take a crash course on sectionals – defining common terminologies and identifying their pros and cons.  When we’re done you’ll be well on your way into making the right decision to sectional or not to sectional.

SECTIONAL 101

RandallSectional

sectional
[sek-shuh-nl]
n. a sofa composed of several independent sections that can be arranged individually or in various combinations.
(www.dictionary.com)

Sectionals come in a variety of shapes- L-shape, U-shape, or semi-circular.

SectiionalsModular

In regards to design, there are two types – stationary and modular.  Stationary sectionals are the most common. They are a set shape, and are locked in place by hooks or latches. The pieces cannot be separated besides for moving purposes.  Modular sectionals have pieces with finished edges, offering endless configurations and each section can be setup as a standalone piece.  They are basically big comfy lego blocks.

BASIC LINGO
Chaise – An extra long seat offering full leg room (great for lounging)
Corner Chair – A sectional piece that looks like a wedge intended in to be placed in a corner
Armless Chair – A single seat sectional piece with no arms
Ottoman – A footstool without arms or back. Primarily used as a footstool but in modular sectionals can be used as a seat or table.
RAF – (Right Arm Facing) When facing the piece or section, your arm is on the right. i,e. RAF chaise means the chaise is on the right when you are looking at it.
LAF – (Left Arm Facing), opposite of RAF 😉

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Photo by Rogi Ramil, Red Knot Aiea

PROS
*Multiple seating looks cozy and inviting.
*Creates a nice setup to watch television without craning your neck (having a sofa and loveseat will do that to ya!)
*Offers lots of room not only for the whole family but also for guests and entertaining.
*The chaise is a great place for lounging, cuddling, sleeping and videogam-ing. 🙂

CONS
*Some sectionals (stationary) only have one configuration, which limits future rearranging plans.
*They can take up a lot of room visually and physically.
*The stationary sectionals also limit furniture add-ons.
*The wedge and corner seats can be awkward.

SOME QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
*Does my space allow for the size and flexibility of a sectional?
*Where is it going and what will it be used for? (Family room? Parties?)
*How many people do you need to accommodate?
*Am I planning on moving homes in the near future?

So now the last question is … sectionals – yay! or nay?