Tips from allegra

Adore your decor with helpful hints from Allegra Buffington of Highgate Manor 

 

“I want everyone to feel proud of their home, and enjoy sharing and showing off a bit with family and friends! Remember, there are no rules.  Have fun, take some chances, mix and match to achieve charming combinations.  Highgate Manor can get you there easily and affordably!”

 

We have a sumptuous array of affordable bedding, including glamorous comforter sets that already come with decorative pillows, shams and bed skirts. Lots of these choices have matching window treatments available.  Coverlet sets and stand-alone coverlets are also nice alternatives for an instant make-over for your bedroom. You can take an average seating  area and make it splashy with decorative pillows and throws.

 

Animal prints and rich textures such as beading and embroidered details are always luxurious. Faux fur is a year-round way to surround yourself with opulence that is also pampering! Gold accents are key for creating grandeur in your environment.. gold is a perfect contrast to the rich hues of deep reds, chocolate browns and black. (Gold also brings luminosity to fabrics.)

 

Enrich your atmosphere and warm the ambiance with candlelight and accent lamps.  It’s an affordable decorating touch and can alter your mood by bringing a relaxing sensation into your decor.

 

New sheets and elegant throws or a coverlet folded at the foot of the bed are fast, economical ways to update.  Also, think about accent rugs to freshen up your wall-to-wall carpet or hardwood floors. Add textures such as chenille or bamboo as soft and irresistible color enhancements to help redefine your decor.

 

Don't set aside your elegant dinnerware and flatware for special occasions. Dress up any meal or dining experience, whether serving friends and family or just having coffee and cake on your own!

 

Have fun when setting the table with bright tablecloths that add a new sophisticated twist.  Try animal print napkins or napkin rings.

 

For an alternative centerpiece, consider a large decorative or crystal bowl, float candles in water.

 

Set out water or fun beverages on the buffet or counter in a distinctive dispenser.

 

Setting a proper table can be effortless. You may choose whether your napkin is to the left of the dinner plate or on top of the dinner plate - either is correct.

 

Utensils are placed in the order of use, from the outside in ( with only a few exceptions). Forks go to the left of the plate and knives and spoons to the right.  The blade of the knife is always aimed toward the plate. Large wine goblets are for red wines and smaller for whites. Dessert spoons or forks should be brought out on or with dessert plates or bows. You may start with a smaller plate on top of the dinner plate for salad to achieve a layered look.  This allows you to mix and match patterns as well.

 

Fiber or feather beds are very beneficial to a fabulous night’s sleep, adding support as well as luxury.  Here’s something new to try… put one under your comforter set! All of a sudden you have a luxurious, lofty bed just waiting to be snuggled into. Keep in mind that pillows should be changed 1-2 times a year for frequently used beds. You’ll appreciate the head and neck support and at the same time the welcoming look of visibly fluffy pillowcases and shams.

 

“At Highgate Manor, we strive to provide you a range of elegant and affordable home options.  From matched bedding sets to individual accents, from gold-accented flatware to unusual serving pieces, we offer home goods that are simply…great.”