We had a great time pouring over House Beautiful‘s colorful May issue, especially when top designers shared 101 of their best secrets.  Who knew that the best dog-proof floor covering is cowhide or that the only time white curtain lining should be used is with white curtains?  Well, we decided to put some of these designers to the test and see if they take their own advice when they design a space…

Jan Showers' Black Accents and Antiques

“Every room needs a touch of black. just as it needs at least one antique piece.” ~ Jan Showers

Tobi Fairley's Bench

“A bench at the foot of the bed should be no less than 2″ shorter than the mattress width.” ~ Tobi Fairley

Ann Wolf's Collection

“Make sure you display everything in your collection together.” ~ Ann Wolf

Lindsey Coral Harper's Wallpaper

“Use wallpaper in unexpected places: on the ceiling in a paneled room, in closets, hallways, and small foyers.  A great pattern or tecture in small spaces can be a prodigious twist!” ~ Lindsey Coral Harper

Christopher Peacock's Island

“I typically suggest an island 5′ wide by 8′ long.  You don’t want it to look like an aircraft carrier.” ~ Christopher Peacock

Peter Dunham's Curtains

“Hang curtains.  They make a room seem finished.  Think of them as the lipstick of decorating.” ~ Peter Dunham

Have you seen the issue?  What is your favorite design secret?

Photos via Jan Showers, Tobi Fairley, Ann Wolf, House Beautiful and Traditional Home