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I scoured the library, the bookstores (on and off line) and, unfortunately, I did not find examples of 1800’s interiors or saloons. Nor did I find an example of a grand piano that was in a room with contrasting furnishings. I did find two good online articles about eclectic design. Here are descriptions and links.

1. "Mixing Styles, Old Gives New the Softer Look." This article discusses how to keep a balanced look by watching color and lines.
2. "Some Tips for Pulling off the Eclectic Look." From the Holland Sentinel. This is an article about how to succeed in combining objects, by utilizing a single unifying factor, such a color.

So, what to do about your specific situation? Perhaps your could use lace, similar to what is hung over the mirror by the sideboard, to adore the piano? This would tie the objects together. I am unsure of how this will work when the piano is open. Perhaps you could use a lightweight material that could be folded and stored when the top is up? Here are 3 suggestions for how to drape the fabric, (a) like a table runner, (b) like a table cloth, or (c) as a fabric cut to the outline of the top, with finished edges.

I checked my Architectural Graphic Standards book for the dimensions of a baby grand. It said the piano is 4’-5" deep, by 4’-7" wide. (Architectural Graphic Standards is one of the best references for dimensions for interior planning. I have provided links, below, to different editions reader’s can view online.) Because of the size of the piano, and the limitations of fabric widths, here are some ideas on materials that could be used, in addition to those you’d find in fabric stores. (Susan, I know you probably have access to lace, locally. But, other reader’s may have similar needs, and need resources.)

1. As mentioned above, a ready-made tablecloth, or table runner.
2. A drapery panel.

In closing, I hope I have answered your question, and given you some ideas to work with.

Sincerely, Catherine McGivern,

Here are the links to Architectural Graphic Standards, I mentioned above. There are three different editions:

1. Architectural Graphic Standards, 9th Edition, Hardcover, $210 (wow!)
2. Architectural Graphic Standards, Student Edition, 8th Edition, Paperback, $85
3. Architectural Graphic Standards for Architects, Engineers, Decorators, Builders and Draftsmen: A reissue of the classic 1932 edition. Paperback, $49.95.
   
   RETURN TO COMBINING STYLES IN ONE SPACE: PART 1
   
   Permission is granted to print or reproduce e-zine material if the following is included:
   Author: Catherine Foust McGivern, NCIDQ Certified, Principal
   CatherineMcGivern.com, http://www.CatherineMcGivern.com

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