The Draper Effect

(Photo: Courtesy of the Collection of Dorothy Draper & Co. Inc. and the Carleton Varney Design Group)

Bright Colors, Big Chintzes: The Elements of Draperism

1. Intense color.
Forget white or even pastel. Draper went for intense; her living-room walls, seen here, were eggplant, and the lobby of the Hampshire House, left, was turquoise.

2. Plant life.
Well-maintained plants and flowers were obligatory. “They are as much a part of a decorative scheme as beautiful curtains,” she said.

3. Dense, textured carpet.
For homier ambience, Draper laid out thick, tactile rugs whose neutral colors wouldn’t compete with other elements.

4. Striking details.
Draper preached the value of a few bold accessories—but never clutter.

5. A roaring fire.
The fireplace “is the heart of any room and should be kindled on the slightest provocation,” Draper said.

6. Exuberant prints.
Decades before Buatta, Draper championed enormous florals and fringe.

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