Every home has a story, and every design choice within it helps tell that story. When I was entrusted with creating draperies for this remarkable formal sitting room, I knew that every detail needed to align with the grandeur and elegance of the space. My approach, as always, was to balance beauty with functionality — ensuring that the drapes not only enhanced the aesthetic of the room but also served their intended purpose seamlessly.
The homeowners had a clear vision for this room, known as the parlour. They wanted to respect the architectural integrity of the space while modernizing it with a transitional aesthetic. But beyond that, this was no ordinary sitting room — it was to serve as a display for their incredible collection of replica royal crowns, which they had been collecting for over 20 years. The collection features a museum-quality replica of the Imperial State Crown, containing over 3,300 individually set stones, crafted by Martin Adams, a renowned U.K. stage jeweler who has created crowns for every current production of Hamilton, as well as jewelry for many other well-known films and stage productions.
To ensure the crowns remained the focal point, the entire room was “dipped” in a single color, enveloping the walls, ceiling, and cabinetry — including all moldings — in one unified hue. This monochromatic approach allowed the intricate details of the crowns to pop while creating a dramatic yet harmonious backdrop.
The homeowners also refined the space by replacing the existing wooden fireplace mantel (which was not original to the home) with an elaborately carved white marble mantel, adding a timeless elegance. Above it hangs a stunning gold “soleil” mirror, which reflects light from the circular flush-mounted crystal chandelier, a glamorous focal point that echoes the circular black marble coffee table below.
In keeping with the royal atmosphere, the furnishings were selected in deep jewel tones of rich blue and burgundy, complementing both the artwork and the ornate details throughout the space. Special-ordered brass cabinet grills from London were chosen to coordinate with the original brass hardware of the pocket doors on the opposite side of the room. Adding to the sense of grandeur, two white marble Medici lion sculptures sit atop the cabinet arches, standing as silent guardians over the crown collection.
The Drapery Design
With such a regal and historic theme in play, every design choice, especially the drapery, needed to be intentional, ensuring that each element—color, texture, and placement—worked together to highlight the collection without overpowering it. With such an opulent setting, the draperies needed to feel as regal as the rest of the room while providing essential privacy. For this, the client selected a deep blue velvet damask fabric, a luxurious choice that perfectly complements the jewel-toned furnishings and the regal theme. Velvet always brings a level of richness and depth, and the damask pattern adds an extra layer of sophistication.
I paid particular attention to the pleating and construction, ensuring that the drapes would hang beautifully whether open or closed. Paying great attention to how each room blends into the next, the client and I meticulously thought through the craftsmanship of the pleats. We wanted the pleats crafted to create a full, plush effect, enhancing the depth and movement of the fabric, while also maintaining their form and crisp appearance. In addition, since the draperies are drawn closed each evening for privacy, functionality was just as important as form.
To achieve effortless movement, we mounted the drapes on gold-tone metal iron hardware by Lundy’s. The elegant rods and rings allow the heavy fabric to glide smoothly, making daily use a breeze. The acorn finials were a special touch, chosen to reflect the towering oak trees that frame the property — an intentional nod to nature’s presence in this otherwise highly curated space.
While the crown collection provides a regal focus, the homeowners were equally intentional about bringing in elements of modernity and playfulness. One of the most striking features of the space is the nearly life-sized pop art portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, painted on commission by Amilcar Ferreyro of Barcelona. This painting does more than just complement the room — it dominates it, watching over the crowns with a stately presence, yet maintaining a contemporary edge.
What makes this piece even more special is its interactive quality. Many elements, including the Queen’s jewelry, have a 3D effect, inviting guests to not just admire the artwork from afar but to physically engage with it. In contrast to the traditional museum experience — where touching is forbidden — this piece was designed to be both seen and felt, making it a perfect juxtaposition to the room’s historic undertones.
Despite its formal nature, the homeowners find themselves using this room far more than they initially anticipated. Whether it’s for cocktails with guests before dinner or quiet evenings by the fire, the space is not just a showcase — it’s a place to be lived in and enjoyed.
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