Every profession has a specialized vocabulary. Sometimes the words are understood by the general public and sometimes the same word has a very different meaning for various professions. My sister, the actress, is excited to show off her new head shots. Our cousin, the military veteran, cringes when he hears this term as he imagines a fatal wound to the head.

  Specialized vocabulary is not always so extreme. In the case of interior design terminology, the following words should present no difficulty to decipher. I’m betting you know more about design than you thought. Answers for the Word Match can be found at the end.

  Vignette. The dictionary meaning is “a brief, evocative description, account or scene.” However, Interior Decorators use the term “vignette” to refer to a collection of items which create the idea or essence of a completed room. Vignettes are used to ‘sell’ a room design.

  To achieve these vignettes, Interior Decorators might utilize memo samples, paint chips, drapery fabrics, woods and carpeting to demonstrate color palette recommendations. Setting determines appropriate selections. The “hand” or feel of the fabric is important to comfort. Accessories demonstrate shine, matte finish and textures which are needed to create interest. Wood stain samples or small scale, bench-made pieces of furniture additionally support the idea of a finished room’s style. The perspective or viewpoint must always be considered.

  So much for the WORD. Now for the SEARCH.

  Make this your personal mission to see what a designer sees. Starting in your own facility, search for examples or vignettes containing:

•         Safe, firm seating

•         Cozy conversation areas

•         Patterns and colors designed to comfort

•         Lighting that dispels gloominess

•         Soft window treatments

•         Appropriately-sized accessories

•         Easy-to-navigate floor plan

•         Reflected light from glass and/or metal

  After you have examined your own space, you’ll be ready to search for appealing vignettes at the upcoming NFDA International Convention. Be sure to consider hotel facilities as well as other common spaces, too.

  Added incentive – while touring the NFDA show, find an example of great design. Take a picture of it and report to Booth 2830 for a gift.

  Here’s a look at some snapshots of past booth designs. Some are better than others. That’s art and that’s life.

  Hope to see you in Philly!

Key: A-5, B-4, C-7, D-2, E-9, F-6, G-8, H-1, I-10 J-3