Architectural Cases

In the heart of Rome, the Palazzo Borghese, a structure steeped in centuries of history, has been reimagined through the creative lens of Ramdane Touhami. This celebrated interior designer, in collaboration with his wife, Victoire de Taillac-Touhami, has meticulously crafted their new residence into a captivating blend of historical grandeur and contemporary artistic expression. Their home serves not merely as a living space but as a testament to diverse design eras, from antiquity to mid-century modernism, reflecting Touhami's ambition to create an environment as compelling and intricate as a museum exhibition.

Details of the Roman Architectural Marvel

The journey into Ramdane and Victoire de Taillac-Touhami's Roman apartment, nestled within the illustrious Palazzo Borghese, reveals a dialogue between past and present. The palazzo itself boasts a rich heritage, with its initial construction overseen by the esteemed Mannerist architect Giacomo Barozzi da Vignola in the 1560s. Subsequent expansions by Cardinal Camillo Borghese, later Pope Paul V, in the late 16th century, cemented its iconic status. Today, the Touhami's 3,014-square-foot F-shaped apartment maintains much of its original splendor, featuring soaring ceilings adorned with intricate frescoes and paintings that whisper tales of bygone eras. Historical nuances, such as the 19th-century 'B'-shaped handles (for Borghese) on the dining room doors, add layers of authenticity to the space.

Upon entering, guests are greeted by a gallery-like atrium and hall, where Touhami's bespoke geometric white oak furniture coexists with statuettes and busts crafted by local art students. The walls and floor are adorned with images from the 1940 publication, Roman Portraits, which Touhami notes for their strikingly contemporary feel. The formal dining room presents another intriguing fusion, with portraits of Italian Socialist Party founders Andrea Costa and Pietro Nenni, acquired from a flea market, commanding attention. Touhami's design philosophy embraces the harmonious juxtaposition of different periods, evident in the principal bedroom's 19th-century Neapolitan metal bed, which exudes a modern sensibility despite its age. Further exploration into a more casual dining area showcases a playful arrangement of pieces, from a 1917 De Stijl armchair by Gerrit Rietveld to designs spanning the 1930s, '50s, and '80s. This eclectic yet balanced approach, a hallmark of the couple's collaborative design process, avoids academic rigidity, instead creating a fluid and inviting atmosphere. Even a hidden window in the guest bathroom, offering a playful vantage point for observing departing guests, reveals Touhami's irreverent spirit, adding a touch of humor to the palatial setting.

This Roman palazzo represents a profound statement on how historical architecture can be revitalized and made relevant for modern living. It challenges conventional notions of interior design, promoting a fluid, personalized approach that honors the past while boldly embracing the present. The Touhami's home encourages a deeper appreciation for the interplay of art, history, and personal expression in creating truly unique and inspiring spaces.

Transform Your Bedroom: Find Your Dream Duvet Cover Today!

Embrace Winter Warmth: The Ultimate Guide to Cozy Duvet Covers

As colder temperatures arrive, finding the right duvet cover becomes essential for a comfortable night's sleep. This selection focuses on soft, inviting options that seamlessly blend with your bedroom's aesthetic, proving that coziness doesn't mean sacrificing style. Even bedding expert Ariel Kayes, founder of Parachute, incorporates a variety of duvet covers into her home, from vibrant, textured linens to light, airy percales.

Selecting Your Perfect Duvet Cover: Style Meets Comfort

Whether you prefer a minimalist, structured look, trendy patterns, or luxurious high thread counts, the market offers a wide array of choices. Brooklinen's Classic Duvet Cover stands out for its diverse patterns, crisp feel—reminiscent of high-end hotel bedding—and effortless maintenance.

The Classic Choice: Brooklinen's Signature Duvet

Brooklinen's Classic Duvet Cover consistently ranks as a top recommendation. Made from 100% long-staple cotton percale, it offers a crisp, smooth texture and comes in 20 colors. Its Oeko-Tex certification ensures it is free from harmful substances, making it a safe and stylish choice. The design versatility allows it to complement various bedroom aesthetics, particularly coastal themes.

Linen's Lived-In Charm: Quince's European Elegance

For those who appreciate a relaxed, lived-in aesthetic, the Quince European Linen Duvet Cover is an excellent option. Crafted from 100% European Flax Linen, it is available in an impressive 35 colors and offers an affordable way to introduce luxury into your bedroom. This linen softens with each wash, providing lasting comfort and a casually elegant look.

Warmth Without Weight: Coyuchi's Organic Flannel

Ideal for cooler climates, the Coyuchi Cloud Brushed Organic Flannel Duvet Cover provides exceptional warmth and softness. Made from GOTS and Made Safe certified organic cotton, it features a brushed finish for a plush texture. Its seven muted color options are perfect for creating a soothing, cozy bedroom atmosphere, especially when paired with matching flannel sheets.

Textural Intrigue: Brooklinen's Ribbed Matelassé

Brooklinen also offers a unique Ribbed Matelassé Duvet Cover, combining a textured, quilt-like front with a crisp percale back. This dual-sided design provides a subtle weight and cushioned feel, perfect for adding depth to your bedding. Its robust construction ensures durability, though some users note it can be prone to snagging if you have pets.

Sustainable Luxury: Boll & Branch Organic Cotton

For eco-conscious consumers, the Boll & Branch Signature Hemmed Duvet Set is a standout. Crafted from 100% organic cotton, this duvet set is praised for its exceptional softness and durability, improving with every wash. Available in 23 colors and prints, including botanical patterns, it offers a sophisticated yet breathable option for both warm and cool nights.

Cool Comfort: Cozy Earth Bamboo Duvet

The Cozy Earth Bamboo Duvet Cover, a favorite of Oprah Winfrey, is renowned for its cooling and moisture-wicking properties. Made from 100% viscose derived from bamboo, it boasts a delicate yet sturdy fabric with a smooth, non-slippery texture. Its innovative snap and hidden zipper closures ensure your comforter stays perfectly in place, making it an excellent choice for hot sleepers or those seeking effortless bedding maintenance.

Patterned Perfection: Piglet in Bed Gingham Linen

For those who love vibrant patterns, the Piglet in Bed Gingham Linen Duvet Cover offers a thermoregulating design that keeps you comfortable year-round. Made from Oeko-Tex-certified European flax linen, it comes in 28 colors, including charming gingham prints perfect for a rustic or cottagecore aesthetic. Its soft, airy feel makes it a delightful addition to any bedroom.

Minimalist's Dream: Cozy Earth Linen Duvet

Cozy Earth's Linen Duvet Cover, made from 100% Belgian Flax linen, is an ideal choice for minimalists. Available in serene mist and natural white, it offers a smooth, breathable feel that resists bunching. Its hidden snap and zip closures provide a clean look and secure fit for your comforter, combining functionality with understated elegance.

Unparalleled Softness: Garnet Hill Flannel

Experience luxurious softness with the Garnet Hill Signature Pear Garden Flannel Duvet Cover. Made from weighty, six-ounce flannel, it provides exceptional warmth and a plush feel, perfect for cold sleepers. Its unique pear print adds a whimsical touch to traditional bedrooms, while its resistance to shedding ensures lasting quality.

Temperature Regulation: Luxome Bamboo Viscose

The Luxome Duvet Cover, crafted from 100% Viscose from Bamboo sateen weave, features patented 37.5 Technology for optimal temperature regulation. Its silky-smooth texture mimics silk at a more accessible price point, making it perfect for hot sleepers. Available in five rich colors, it offers a glamorous yet functional addition to any bedding collection.

Making the Right Choice: Duvet Cover Buying Guide

Choosing the best duvet cover involves considering material, comfort, and design. Natural fibers like linen and organic cotton are preferred for their breathability and softness. When it comes to aesthetics, align your choice with your room's style—whether minimalist, bohemian, or maximalist. Practicality is also key; assess closure types and ease of washing to ensure your duvet cover is both beautiful and functional.

Our Rigorous Testing Process for Duvet Covers

To provide accurate recommendations, we extensively test duvet covers in real-life home settings, evaluating their performance, durability, and comfort over time. We routinely wash each item to monitor wear and tear, ensuring that our selections offer excellent value across various price points, designs, and materials. Our goal is to present a diverse range of options, from organic cotton to sustainable bamboo, all backed by eco-friendly certifications like GOTS and Oeko-Tex.

Do You Really Need a Duvet Cover?

While not strictly essential, a duvet cover is highly recommended. It protects your duvet insert, extends its lifespan, and allows for easy updates to your bedroom's aesthetic without needing to purchase an entirely new comforter. Always check the care instructions for your duvet insert, as some may not be suitable for machine washing.

Effortless Duvet Cover Installation

Installing a duvet cover can be simple with the right technique. Begin by turning the cover inside out and laying it flat with the opening at the foot of the bed. Place your comforter on top, securing its corners with the duvet ties. Roll both the duvet and cover together from the head of the bed, like a burrito. Finally, fold the duvet opening over the rolled edges and unroll, allowing the comforter to settle perfectly within its new cover.

Maintaining Your Duvet Cover's Freshness

For optimal hygiene and longevity, duvet covers should typically be washed as often as sheets—about once a week. If you use a top sheet, you can extend this to every other week. Always follow the manufacturer's specific care instructions. When machine washing, use a gentle detergent and cold cycle, and zip any closures to prevent snagging.

How Architectural Digest Selects Products

Architectural Digest's product selection process prioritizes quality and trusted brands such as Brooklinen and Boll & Branch. We focus on items made from organic and sustainably sourced materials like organic cotton, European flax, and bamboo, ensuring eco-friendly certifications. Our experts also emphasize design versatility, choosing products in a variety of colors, patterns, and prints to complement diverse bedroom styles.

Optimal Cleaning Frequency for Duvet Covers

It's generally advised to clean your duvet cover with the same frequency as your bed sheets, ideally once a week. However, if you use a top sheet, you can extend the washing cycle to every other week, helping to maintain freshness while reducing wear on the duvet cover.