At CMFTO, we always enjoy personalizing our clients’ homes by creating curated, layered looks. Spring is the perfect time to refresh your space, as the shapes, colors, and textures of the season offer endless design inspiration — and a literal breath of fresh air!
After more than 25 years as an interior designer, our founder, Claudia McLaughlin, has a wealth of resources — from award-winning artisans to luxury linen designers and more — allowing us to source unique items that enhance your space. In this post, we’re sharing some of her best-loved resources, including perennial favorites and a few new discoveries.
An Award-Winning Glass Artisan
In 2016, Claudia was visiting a Seattle art gallery when she met Julie Conway, a local glass artist who creates one-of-a-kind illuminated installations. The two hit it off immediately and have been collaborating ever since. We adore Julie’s dynamic, eco-friendly designs, including this stunning chandelier we commissioned for a client’s foyer. Currently, Claudia is working with Julie to create a bespoke fixture for the entranceway of her home. (She’s leaning toward a brushed brass finish — stay tuned for updates on the final design!)
Courtesy: Illuminata
Concept for a new design
Luxury Linens & Textiles
Dressing the bed with fresh, crisp bedding is one of our favorite ways to welcome spring. Bedside Manor creates elegant linens that are always at the top of our list. Designed in Chicago by husband-and-wife team Meg and Michael Carroll, their styles range from pristine white bedding and tailored looks to botanical prints.
Fabrics from Raoul Textiles, which we’ve featured in a previous design post, add a pop of color to any room in your home. Claudia adores their whimsical, hand-blocked linens (“My favorite fabric on Earth!”), which are made by a family-owned company in Santa Barbara. Happily, they’re now available at The Mart in Chicago.
Bedside Manor sheets & pillowcase
Decorative Objects, Books & More
Celebrating the beauty of Nordic and Japanese design, Moth is a Chicago store focused on nature and simplicity, and a perennial favorite of ours. Their thoughtful collection caters to those looking for design-focused and limited-run items, many of which are not carried anywhere else in the United States. We always enjoy perusing their home accessories, art, and books.
Finally, Passenger in Evanston is an exciting new resource primarily dedicated to a single, sustainable medium: paper. They have a beautiful collection of handmade wrapping paper, cards, and even lamps and jewelry.
Courtesy: Moth
Courtesy: Moth
At CMFTO, we love creating personalized spaces that make your home feel a sanctuary. Whether you’re looking for a simple refresh or have a larger project in mind, please reach out to us with any design needs you may have!