Where do you begin?
Boston Design and Interiors begins every project with a client in a dialogue that helps them discover those specific elements of interior design they are most drawn to. In addition, I have found that exposing clients to elements of architectural detailing and “objets d’art” rooted in a historical style helps them to discover their own sense of style. This process helps us to do a better job in every aspect.
What feature in a rug is most important to you?
The feature that is most important to me as a designer is the degree to which its pattern and color composition will balance out the overall design scheme. Sometimes a rug can take center stage and provide that sense of balance to the overall design scheme by incorporating a large scale pattern and give the room a burst of energy it might be lacking. In other cases, the rug needs to calm the space and can be used as a foil against a preponderance of pattern and color. The rug is essential in connecting all of the design elements in the space as a cohesive whole.
How often do you purchase a custom rug?
Whenever I am purchasing rugs for clients, I consider three key factors: the rug needs to fit the envelope of space, the interior design style, and the color palette. It also needs to fit the level of intensity it needs to bring to the overall design when the space is completed.
I will purchase custom rugs only when two of the three factors are satisfied after a thorough search. If the style and color palette is right, but it won’t fit the spatial requirements, then a custom rug might be in order. I have also ordered custom rugs when the style and pattern is right but desire the colors to match the dyes in the textiles more closely. There have been times when I custom design rugs, as well, using high quality broadloom by Masland or Radici to create custom banded stair and hall runners, so as to tie colors together from other design elements and other rugs.
Do you have a favorite style or fiber?
I do like Tibetan rugs for the lustrous feel of the wool itself due to the lanolin. In general I prefer wool as a fiber. Wool rugs are durable, evaporate moisture naturally and are anti-static by nature.
Are there any design rules you like to follow or like to break?
The design rules I like to follow are making sure the rug or rugs are appropriately-sized for the spaces. Sometimes a combination of rugs is the solution to filling the floor space proportionally. The other rule is to make sure the correct padding is being used. I usually specify rubber padding for residences, as it is a natural eco-friendly material and will not release toxic fumes in the event of a fire.
