Interior design trends tend to come and go. This includes fabric materials, paint colors, decor items, and more. Boucle is a material that has experienced a rollercoaster ride of popularity over the years, and now this unique and elegant fabric is once again enjoying its time in the interior design limelight. But to some, boucle furniture is timeless and will always be in style. So, what is boucle fabric upholstery, and how can you incorporate it into your interior design plans?

Let’s dive into the world of boucle fabric upholstery to help homeowners just like yourself better understand boucle furniture and determine if it is right for your next home design project.

What is Boucle Fabric?

The word “boucle” comes from the French language and means “curl.” Boucle is characterized by its looped, or curved, upholstery. It is often constructed with wool, cotton, or silk materials. Some boucle fabric upholstery can also be made from synthetic materials such as polyester. Many pieces of boucle furniture are made from boucle blends, which blend multiple materials together to optimize certain traits. For example, boucle fabric upholstery that blends wool with cotton can increase softness, while boucle upholstery that blends wool and synthetic fibers can enhance the fabric’s durability and stain resistance.

The materials are weaved together in a special pattern to create the distinctive texture of boucle fabric. Once weaved, the fabric is additionally treated by steaming, brushing, and other necessary steps to create its shape and design. The end result is a uniquely textured fabric that is soft, comfortable, and sure to turn heads. Boucle furniture is cherished for the warm and cozy feel it emulates, making it a popular choice for homeowners looking to create a welcoming and comfortable space.

The Benefits of Boucle Fabric Furniture 

Boucle is an excellent choice for your next interior design project or home makeover. One of the biggest benefits of choosing boucle fabric upholstery is its comfort. If you have ever sat on a boucle fabric chair or boucle fabric sofa, you know just how soft and cozy it is. Durability is also a hallmark of boucle. Its tightly woven materials and sturdy construction make boucle furniture suitable for both high-traffic and low-traffic areas.

Another benefit of boucle furniture is its versatility. While white and soft colors are the most popular, boucle fabric furniture is available in a wide range of colors and patterns. There are boucle options out there to match just about any room or style!

How to Care for Boucle Fabric Furniture 

Caring for your boucle fabric upholstery is not as complex as you might believe. Regular, preventative cleanings are necessary for maintaining its look and preventing unchecked wear or blemishes. This should be done at least once a month with a vacuum cleaner and soft brush attachment.

Stains should be cared for as soon as possible. Begin by blotting the area with a dry paper towel or rag in order to remove the source of the stain. Then, use warm water and a mild, bleach-free detergent to gently clean the area.

Boucle Fabric Furniture Costs

If you are looking for the most economical design material, boucle is probably not the right choice. Boucle fabric upholstery is considered by many to be a luxury item, and as such, boucle generally comes in at the higher end of the pricing spectrum. The cost of boucle fabric is often comparable to that of other high-end materials, including leather and silk. Not all boucle furniture is the same, however. Pricing can vary based on brand, fabric quality, and design complexity.

Working with an experienced design team like 5blox can help you find the best pricing on boucle fabric upholstery.

Alternatives to Boucle Fabric 

There are a few reasons you might need to consider alternatives to boucle fabric upholstery. For example, boucle furniture might not be the best choice for a home with an active cat or dog. The textured fabric of boucle fabric sofas and chairs can attract pet hair or entice animals to chew or scratch the material. Another reason you might need to consider alternative fabrics is the relatively limited availability of many boucle furniture pieces. Fortunately, similar fabric materials are available on the market.

If you like the look and feel of boucle fabric upholstery, some comparable materials that you should consider include chenille, sherpa, sheepskin, and tweed. By thoroughly exploring all your fabric options, you can rest assured that you are making the best decisions for your renovation.

Incorporating Boucle Fabric into Your Home Design

Boucle can open up limitless design potential for your home. Using boucle furniture as a centerpiece for a room, be it a boucle fabric sofa, chair, or ottoman, is a great way to make a statement. Accent pieces, including throw pillows, curtains, and blankets, are another functional way of incorporating boucle into your home renovation.

Boucle fabric also lends itself well to mixing and matching with other materials, including velvet, linen, or even wood. This can allow you even more flexibility and freedom when it comes to choosing the perfect furniture for your living space.

Another factor to consider is the overall design style of your home. Boucle is compatible with a wide range of styles, including mid-century modern, Scandinavian, contemporary, and bohemian. On the other hand, boucle furniture may clash with certain design styles such as minimalist or industrial.

Design Your Dream Home with 5blox

Whether you are remodeling a room or remodeling your entire home, boucle fabric upholstery can help take your living space to the next level. Adding boucle furniture to your home is a sure way to create that warm, inviting feel that so many homeowners covet.

Make your dream home designs a reality with our help! Boucle fabric upholstery is one of our favorite choices for furnishings, and we are excited to share that passion with you. Our full-service home renovation agency handles everything including design and renderings, project management, permitting, and construction. Tell us your vision and let’s get started today!

The popularity of accessory dwelling units continues to rise across California. An accessory dwelling unit, or ADU, is a residential unit that is secondary to a primary housing unit on a lot. Accessory dwelling unit is simply the legal term for what are commonly called granny flats or in-law suites. ADUs can provide much value to you as a homeowner. But to get the most out of your ADU project, careful planning and consideration are required, including strict adherence to California accessory dwelling unit laws.

Our design team has extensive experience helping property owners create the ADUs of their dreams. Here are some of the do’s and don’ts when it comes to planning your accessory dwelling unit in California.

Accessory Dwelling Unit Best Practices

Whether you plan to add an addition to your home, build a separate space on your lot, or convert a basement or garage into an ADU, here are some of the best practices for ensuring a smooth and successful accessory dwelling unit construction project in California:

Follow Local ADU Regulations

California is a very ADU-friendly state. In fact, recent legislation passed to make it easier than ever for property owners to maximize the value of their lots through accessory dwelling units. Still, it is vital to research local laws and regulations pertaining to accessory dwelling units in California. Regulations and requirements can vary significantly based on location when it comes to size limitations, parking requirements, setbacks, and other unit specifications.

Maximize Use of Space 

Maximizing the space of your ADU is essential for maximizing both its value and its function. One way to achieve this is by furnishing your unit with multifunctional furniture, such as futons and bunk beds. You should also think of ways to get creative with storage space. When it comes time to paint the interior, we recommend cool, light colors that can add depth and make smaller spaces feel larger.

Implement Universal Design 

California property owners commonly use accessory dwelling units for aging parents or other relatives who may be seeking the solitude of having their own space while having the safety and security of being so close to their loved ones. Even if you don’t plan to utilize your ADU for this purpose, it can be beneficial to design your unit with universal design in mind. This can increase its value and appeal to potential buyers down the line while also providing you with flexibility in the event that your plans for the unit change. Examples of universal design include accessible bathrooms, wide-frame doorways, zero-step entrances, and entryway ramps.

Work With Reputable Designers and Builders

Choosing the right partners for your ADU project can make or break its success. Working with qualified contractors who are experienced, knowledgeable, and insured is essential for ensuring work remains on schedule, stays within your budget, and follows all California accessory dwelling unit regulations and requirements. Our design professionals are your premier source for all things ADUs. Contact us today and let’s get started on planning the home of your dreams.

Accessory Dwelling Unit Faux Pas

There are many benefits of adding an accessory dwelling unit to your property, but it can be easy to get caught up in the excitement of your ADU project and overlook some of its crucial details. Here is what you must avoid in order to ensure you get the most out of your accessory dwelling unit:

Ignoring Aesthetics of Neighborhood

Your ADU shouldn’t just fit the style of your own home. Factoring the aesthetics and architecture of your neighborhood into your ADU plans is vital for not only being a courteous neighbor but also for maintaining the value of your own property. An unsightly addition can decrease its value and minimize the value of your investment. If your neighborhood has an HOA, it is important to learn the construction rules of your community, as they may differ from your local municipal regulations and requirements.

Overlooking Maintenance Costs

While it is true that accessory dwelling units create value for California property owners, that value still comes at a cost. In addition to the upfront design and construction costs associated with an accessory dwelling unit in California, it is important to not overlook the costs of long-term maintenance. Just like any other unit, an accessory dwelling unit will require both planned and unplanned repairs throughout its lifetime. Factoring in the costs of this maintenance is an important part of the planning process.

Using Cheap Materials and Furnishings

A common mindset we find California property owners falling into is that the accessory dwelling unit is a secondary unit, and therefore not worthy of being built with quality materials or outfitted with quality fixtures. Treating your accessory dwelling unit as you would your primary residence will not only ensure the best value for your investment but also ensure the best experience for those living in the unit.

Not Acquiring Proper Permitting

Even the smallest non-compliance can spell big trouble and big costs for your accessory dwelling unit project in California. Acquiring the proper permitting is essential for maintaining compliance and avoiding any unexpected interruptions or fines. This is where a reputable team like 5blox can help. When you work with us, you can rest assured that our team will maintain compliance with all California accessory dwelling unit laws and requirements, including acquiring all the necessary permits. 

Unlock the Benefits of Accessory Dwelling Units

It is no surprise that California continues to embrace the accessory dwelling unit trend. They create value for homeowners while helping to ease the housing shortage. If you are thinking about converting a space inside your home or building a new space on your property to be used as an ADU, you aren’t alone. California accessory dwelling unit construction has been booming in recent years, with a more than elevenfold increase in ADU construction between 2016 and 2023.

Speak with an expert from our 5blox design team and find out how we can make your ADU dreams a reality.