Simply slip it on
Question for John Floyd, designer at The Second Yard: How do you pick the right slip cover for your couch?
Answer: “You know you’ve got the perfect slip cover when it looks like upholstery,” Floyd says. Whether you choose to have a slip cover custom made for your sofa or you’re in need of a quick fix, you’ve got to keep in mind the size of your piece. “A bigger piece with large arms and puffier cushions might call for something a bit looser,” says Floyd. He refers to this as “shabby chic.”
 A slip cover can be a time-saver, or a test run for a new idea. |
In terms of fabric, Floyd suggests lighter-weight stuff, especially if there are multiple layers. If you’re going prepackaged, Floyd says “go neutral and solid.” Of course, a room that needs a little excitement can be spruced up with a vibrant color or a sleek pattern—plus it’s removable. Removability also means washability. After washing, “put the cover back on when it’s still a little damp,” says Floyd. “That will give it a snug fit.”
 Treehouse Living |
Did we mention slip covers are way cheaper than upholstery? You can also think of a slip cover as a test drive for a more permanent decorating change. Another bonus: Once you’ve brought your new slip cover home, all you’ve got to do is throw it on. “With upholstery, you could be out of your furniture for weeks,” says Floyd.—Suzanne van der Eijk
Knob tweak
We usually get skeezed out by the word “adorable,” but that’s the only term for these hand-painted ceramic drawer pulls made in Deruta, Italy, and sold locally at Verity blue. Think how much fun it would be to replace all the knobs on your old dresser with an eclectic flock of these things. It’s practically therapeutic.—Erika Howsare
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Up in the atmosphere
Treehouse Living by Alain Laurens and fellow architects brings to mind the childhood thrill of being tucked away in a treetop. Hopefully as a kid you weren’t using those private quarters to sip champagne, but for adults a little niche among the branches has become the perfect venue for some much-needed privacy. You’ll peek into a writer’s sanctuary and a chocolate lover’s truffle shelter. But you’ll probably still be asking: How’d they get that up there?—S.V.