Home & Design

A mustard-hued sofa defines this DC living room by Hannah Charlotte Interiors. PHOTO: JENN VERRIER

Rebecca Penno used the rug to anchor the furniture arrangement in this Yorktown, Virginia, living room. PHOTO: ANGELA NEWTON ROY

All The Trimmings

Advice from the pros

Our Experts

Bonnie Ammon - Bonnie Ammon Interiors  Hannah Goldberg - Hannah Charlotte Interiors

Laura Hildebrandt - Interiors by LH  |  Rebecca Penno - Penno Interiors


How do you choose a rug?

“Look at how it will be used and the level of foot traffic it will see. This informs both the material and pile height, ensuring the rug is not only beautiful but also practical.”

Hannah Goldberg

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“In rooms with unique dimensions, I recommend a custom-size rug. It’s an elegant way to outline the room and give it a tailored, polished feel.”

Bonnie Ammon

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“Consider the fiber content based on the location. synthetic or silk-like fibers do not always hold up to High-traffic areas. Natural fibers, such as wool and grasses, are preferred for heavy use.”   

Rebecca Penno

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“The right size and shape are critical. Too big and it will look like the room is being swallowed; too small and it will look like you’re sitting on a postage stamp.”

Laura Hildebrandt


Tips for picking the right sofa profile?

“Let the architecture lead. Make sure the sofa’s silhouette complements your interior style. A classic English roll-arm might feel at home in a traditional setting, while a low-profile piece may better suit a more contemporary space.”

Hannah Goldberg

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“Consider other shapes in the room: Is everything a rectangle or square? Then a curved sofa will add a nice softness. Lots of mixed shapes? A lovely, strong track arm will ground the space.”

Laura Hildebrandt

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“In smaller areas I often recommend a tight-back sofa with slender arms and exposed legs—it feels lighter and helps maintain an open, airy look. In larger rooms, you have the freedom to go for deeper seats, broader arms or even sectionals.”

Bonnie Ammon


Favorite paint to color-drench a room?

“Portola Paints Lone Cypress is a dark and robust stone green. Deeply saturated with cool undertones, it feels both earthy and sophisticated.”

Hannah Goldberg

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“Sherwin Williams Obi Lilac is a beautiful, serene color that can read as neutral in the right setting.”

Laura Hildebrandt

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“Benjamin Moore Newburyport Blue has a jewel-tone quality that makes a statement.”

Rebecca Penno

 

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HOME&DESIGN, published bi-monthly by Homestyles Media Inc., is the premier magazine of architecture and fine interiors for the Washington, DC, Maryland and Virginia region.

The company also publishes an annual H&D Sourcebook of ideas and resources for homeowners and professionals alike. H&D Chesapeake Views is published bi-annually and showcases fine home design and luxury living in and around the Chesapeake Bay.

The H&D Portfolio of 100 Top Designers spotlights the superior work of selected architects, interior designers and landscape architects in major regions of the US.

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