The Front Door Timeless Chambray High-Performance Fabrics Luxury Bathrooms and Powder Rooms Emerald Green Sloped Ceilings and Feature Walls Stunning Raspberry Large Windows can make the room Unique Coffee Tables Kitchen Stools and How Many
Rich colours stand out against a crisp white frame, beautifully complementing the exterior. The stone house image above has used a colour that tones in with the stones, also the last image, choosing the same colour rather than a contrasting colour, the alternative is a contrasting colour. If you're opting for colour—any shade, really—it will look stunning in a high-gloss finish. For durability, an oil-based paint is ideal. Keep in mind that gloss paint will highlight any imperfections, so ensure the surface is meticulously sanded and primed in white. This is especially important for bold colours, as their pigments tend to be thinner. You can do a matte, satin or gloss finish, the choice is yours.
Whites, greys, neutrals, and blacks remain popular choices, as they are timeless and unlikely to date. Their appeal lies in their simplicity and versatility, unlike nuanced shades, say, sage green, compared to Hunter Green.
Your front door serves as the first impression of your home, setting the tone for what’s inside. A bright, bold door suggests vibrancy and personality, rather than leading visitors into an all-white interior. To find the perfect shade, start by selecting paint swatches and placing them on the door. Ideally, a shade with enough intensity and strength to feel sophisticated. Remove those that clash with your home's existing materials—whether timber or brick—and observe the colours throughout the day in different lighting. Ask yourself: Is it too bright? Too dull? Does it harmonise with the house? Ultimately, the home itself will dictate the colour that works best.
Chambray Blue: A Gentle Hue with Timeless Appeal
Like denim, chambray comes in a spectrum of blues—from whisper-light to deep navy—making it a versatile accent across a range of interior styles: contemporary, modern, coastal, even country. When used in paint, textiles, or decorative accents, chambray blue brings a sense of warmth, friendliness, and lived-in comfort to a space. It’s the home’s equivalent of your favourite chambray shirt—easygoing, familiar, and effortlessly stylish.
Chambray itself is a lightweight, plain-weave cotton fabric that originated in Cambrai, France. Though it closely resembles denim, it’s softer and more breathable, lending its name and character to the colour we now associate with relaxed elegance.
Colour-wise, chambray blue sits within the sky blue family. It’s a medium-dark, medium-bright shade with cool undertones, balanced in lightness and saturation. What sets it apart from other blues is its gentle, calming quality—ideal for bedrooms, reading nooks, or any space designed for rest and reflection.
Psychologically, chambray blue is known to reduce stress and promote a sense of peace and stability. Like the daytime sky or the open sea, it evokes vastness and serenity. It’s a non-threatening hue, even shown to lower blood pressure and body temperature, making it not just beautiful but beneficial.
Blues have a natural ability to create tranquil, restorative spaces. Chambray blue, in particular, offers a unique blend of strength and softness—a timeless shade that embodies effortless elegance. Its relaxed character and subtle grey undertones make it a versatile choice for interiors, striking a balance between sophistication and serenity.
Darker blues lend depth and moodiness to a room, while lighter tones evoke calm and clarity. Chambray sits comfortably in between, often appearing as a light, powdery blue with a gently faded, washed-out look—much like the fabric it’s named after. This muted quality allows chambray blue to function as a neutral, adding laid-back refinement to furnishings, walls, and textiles without overwhelming a space.
Chambray’s versatility extends across a wide spectrum of shades—from deep navy and true blue to cornflower and whisper-light hues. This range offers endless possibilities for layering tones, creating contrast, or establishing a cohesive palette throughout the home. Whether used in a coastal retreat, a modern loft, or a bohemian hideaway, chambray blue brings a sense of ease and understated charm.
Performance Fabrics That Elevate Every Space
Solution-dyed acrylic fabrics are a top choice for upholstery, celebrated for their exceptional cleanability, fade resistance, and comfort. Whether you're styling a beach house, refreshing the backyard, or designing interiors, these versatile textiles adapt beautifully to any setting.
The collection spans whimsical prints, textured solids, symmetrical stripes, and mid-scale graphic designs—each crafted to coordinate effortlessly. Designers can layer plains, patterns, and stripes to create a harmonious story where colours blend seamlessly across indoor and outdoor spaces.
These high-performance fabrics are not only durable but also aesthetically refined. Brands like Sunbrella, Outdura, Crypton, and Fiberguard offer solutions that meet the demands of modern living—where style and resilience go hand in hand.
Outdoor fabrics today rival their indoor counterparts in variety and sophistication. From bold prints to subtle textures, they offer a sensory richness once reserved for interiors. And they’re remarkably easy to maintain—resisting stains, mold, mildew, and more. The protective qualities aren’t just surface-deep; they’re woven into every fibre.
While these fabrics are built to endure, it’s wise to store seating cushions out of the elements when not in use. This simple step helps prevent damage from animals, bird droppings, or unexpected weather—preserving both beauty and longevity.
Emerald Green
Emerald Green: A Jewel-Toned Classic That Transforms Spaces
Emerald green is a jewel-toned hue that exudes sophistication—especially when paired with velvet textures and gold accents. Glorious and vibrant, this shade takes its name from the precious gemstone and sits between blue-green and yellow-green on the colour wheel. Its association with emeralds lends it an air of luxury and refinement, making it synonymous with elegance in both fashion and interiors.
In design, emerald green is a powerhouse. A single splash—whether through cushions, a statement sofa, or cabinetry—can energise a space and infuse it with freshness. Green, in general, is calming and restorative, echoing the serenity of nature. Emerald green, in particular, offers a deeper, more dramatic take on this tranquility.
Its versatility is unmatched. Emerald green pairs beautifully with greys, blush pinks, crisp whites, deep blacks, creamy neutrals, rich reds, and mustard yellows. Once introduced, it’s hard not to fall in love with its transformative effect. Take the kitchen, for example: Emerald Chic is a modern, colour-forward approach where bold green cabinetry meets neutral flooring, bright white walls, and simple gold drawer pulls. The result? A space that feels both cheerful and refined.
Emerald green is also a natural fit for bathrooms, where it can turn even the simplest layout into a serene, spa-like retreat. Whether you're aiming for bold drama or subtle elegance, this luxurious shade delivers. More than just a colour, emerald green is a mood—one that speaks of health, vitality, and hope. It reminds us of nature’s richness and offers a calm serenity that few other colours can match.
Sloped Ceilings and Feature Walls
Feature Walls: Creating a Focal Point with Character
A feature wall serves as the room’s visual anchor, ideally positioned directly in front of you as you enter. It draws attention to architectural elements like angled ceilings or generous height, setting the tone for the entire space. To preserve its impact, keep surrounding furniture and patterns understated—let the wall speak, guiding your choices in decor and furnishings.
Feature walls can also define and divide living areas, adding interest and a sense of distinction. When selecting a colour, consider the room’s natural light and orientation—north- or south-facing—as well as its temperature. Warm tones bring comfort to cooler rooms, while cooler hues offer relief in warmer spaces. Above all, choose a colour that reflects your personal style rather than fleeting trends. Timeless design stems from authenticity, not conformity.
Painting Angled Ceilings: A Seamless Approach
If your ceiling slopes or angles, painting it the same colour as the walls can create a cohesive, calming effect—especially when the angled section begins lower on the wall. This technique softens transitions and enhances spatial harmony, allowing the architecture to feel intentional rather than segmented.
Feature walls don’t need to be bold—but if you opt for a strong colour and already have another feature wall in your home, ensure both share similar tonal value and intensity to maintain visual continuity. As a general rule, limit feature walls to a maximum of two. In exceptionally large homes, three may work—but beyond that, the impact can become diluted.
When selecting paint, avoid low-sheen finishes on feature walls, as they tend to highlight imperfections. A matte finish is preferable—it softens flaws and prevents unwanted reflections, especially if the ceiling is white. A low-sheen wall beneath a white ceiling can catch and reflect the ceiling’s brightness, which is why a true matte finish is essential.
VJ board can add texture and charm to a feature wall, but it’s not essential. Once the room is styled with furniture and décor, investing in timber detailing may be unnecessary. Let the paint colour be the hero—it’s cost-effective and easy to update.
Rooms with sloped, vaulted, or angled ceilings present unique challenges. To avoid visually lowering the ceiling or emphasizing the slope, paint the entire room in a single colour. Interrupting the flow with contrasting paint or wallpaper at the junction between wall and ceiling only draws attention to the angles.
Choose a colour you love, then go three shades lighter if you're painting the whole room. Light neutrals—whites, creams, and pastels—create a sense of openness and help slanted ceilings feel less imposing. A single colour throughout can feel overwhelming, so err on the side of softness. While exterior colours benefit from going three shades darker, interiors thrive with lighter tones.
Dark colours like black are receding—they won’t make a room feel smaller, just moodier. They’re ideal for creating atmosphere, but only if the space has ample natural light. Whether your walls and ceiling are black or white, light is key.
Finally, let the room’s shape guide your furniture placement. Avoid positioning the bed where you might bump your head when sitting up. Instead, place it under the highest part of the slope. Slanted ceilings can shrink a space visually, but thoughtful colour choices can restore a sense of balance and openness.
Raspberry: A Bold, Sophisticated Hue
Raspberry is a vivid pinkish-red inspired by the fruit itself — a blend of red’s energy, pink’s softness, and a hint of purple for depth. Sitting between red and magenta on the colour wheel, it evokes richness and sophistication, much like a fine wine.
This bold yet inviting shade commands attention while remaining warm and approachable. Raspberry palettes mix reds, pinks, and purples, offering elegance, passion, and a touch of drama — ideal for interiors that span classic to contemporary styles.
Can’t choose between purple, pink, and red? Raspberry combines all three in one chic, on-trend hue. It’s more refined than most pinks, making it a favourite for updating spaces with flair.
In fashion, raspberry makes a memorable statement — Daniel Craig’s velvet Bond jacket is proof. In automotive design, luxury brands like Dodge and Ferrari embrace raspberry finishes for their sophistication and uniqueness.
Want impact? Pair raspberry with crimson and bright red in a striped or floral pattern — a daring, harmonious combination that turns heads.
Whether it’s fabric, paint, a rug, or furniture, raspberry stands out. Its shades range from delicate pinks to bold reds, adding drama or subtle warmth. It transforms any room — bedroom, kitchen, lounge, or powder room — with its welcoming glow.
Raspberry pairs beautifully with deep orange and soft pinks in an analogous palette, creating a deeply satisfying feel. Though not common, its uniqueness adds value and personality. Choosing raspberry isn’t just about colour — it’s about crafting mood, character, and a space that feels uniquely you.
Large windows are a wonderful asset for many reasons. The home will be flooded with natural light, and the room will appear larger, adding value to your home. Another great reason is to enjoy the view. A neutral palette with earthy tones will complement the beauty outside. Large windows allow more heat to enter the room, reducing heating costs. When you have large windows, it often means you have considered heating and cooling to compensate for both. The orientation of your home is an important factor; note the warm and cool sides of your home. Large windows can be very efficient, especially if made of the right materials and installed correctly. These days, there's a wide range of options for window coverings that cater to hot and cold conditions, so you only cover windows out of necessity. Take a look at the windows in your home: Can some be increased in size? Can some doors be changed out for sliding glass doors? Maybe you will love your home a little more with these changes.
A luxury coffee table is far more than a decorative flourish — it’s a living room essential. Whether you're entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet evening in, it keeps everything within arm’s reach, effortlessly blending practicality with style.
The size and shape of your coffee table should harmonise with your seating arrangement. If your sofas feature soft, curved lines, opt for a round table to echo that softness. For sofas with clean, straight edges, a square or rectangular table offers a complementary geometry. Scale matters: avoid tables that feel too large or too small in relation to your seating. And if your layout includes multiple sofas or chairs, consider adding a side table to spare guests the awkward reach.
At its core, a coffee table offers a convenient surface within easy reach — a resting place for hot drinks, chilled beverages, and everyday essentials like remote controls, books, and magazines. It protects your upholstery from spills and rings while anchoring the room with quiet functionality.
Coffee tables rose to prominence in the 1950s, when the advent of television transformed the living room. Their low profile suited modern life, allowing an unobstructed view of the screen even when topped with cups and glasses.
Today, the coffee table remains a quiet powerhouse of design: low-slung, stylish, and indispensable. It supports your lifestyle while elevating your space — a true hero in the art of living well.
Choosing the Right Stools for Your Kitchen Bench
When arranging stools at a kitchen bench, spacing is key. Allow approximately 15 cm between each stool to ensure comfort and ease of movement. A 30 cm gap between the seat and the bench provides ample legroom — anything less can feel cramped. If stools are touching, they’re too close.
A good rule of thumb? Odd numbers always look balanced and intentional. Three stools suit most benches beautifully, while five can work well for longer benches. If you do opt for five, consider placing three at one end and two at the other to avoid a crowded, bar-like appearance.
Kitchen Stools vs. Bar Stools
The main difference lies in height.
Counter-height stools (65–70 cm) are designed to tuck neatly under kitchen counters, offering comfortable legroom.
Bar stools (75–80 cm) are taller and better suited to higher surfaces like bar tops.
Take note of the height difference when selecting stools — one image might show a stool with no legroom, while another offers generous space beneath the counter. Always measure your bench height before purchasing.
Guidelines vs. Real Life
Design rules are helpful, but they’re not rigid. If you have five children, you’ll need five stools — practicality comes first. Just be mindful not to overcrowd the space.
Let the kitchen be the hero, with stools as a thoughtful, complementary addition. Choose stools that are comfortable, well-proportioned, and that reflect the style of your kitchen — whether sleek and modern or warm and rustic.
Above all, ensure there’s adequate space between the seat and the counter to allow for easy movement and natural posture. Insufficient legroom can lead to discomfort, especially during long meals or conversations.
Internal and external arches have been integral to construction for thousands of years, especially before the discovery of lime to create concrete, which revolutionized building methods by allowing for multiple floors. Curved furnishings are currently very popular, and the arches' curves blend well with this style. Adding soft curves to arched doorways enhances their sophistication and beauty. It’s not necessary to have arches throughout the entire home; a few feature arches can make a big style statement. Although passageways with arches are often chosen for more traditional homes, there's a shift, and arches are now a welcome feature in any part of the home. Ensure there is plenty of clearance as you walk from a room with an arch to the next space, allowing for adequate head height. Not all styles of arches are in vogue now, as some are associated with traditional-style homes. curatedinterior.com home-designing.com deavita.net shelterness.com pinterest pinterest pinterest pinterest pinterest massuccowarner.com curatedinterior.com
In the past, placing the stove in an alcove helped contain its heat, fireproof the kitchen, and reduce the buildup of grease and sticky residues. To effectively remove oils, it is essential to capture air containing oil within the alcove and exhaust it outside. A small alcove is usually tiled and easy to maintain. If you have space on either side of the stove, consider adding shelving for supplies you frequently use. It is crucial to keep flammable materials away from the stove and to ensure the alcove is equipped with fire-resistant materials to prevent accidents. The stove should serve as the focal point of the kitchen, so the size of the alcove should be proportionate to the stove itself. As traditional kitchen elements gain popularity, we’re shifting away from minimalist designs—which often integrate everything—toward kitchens that feature distinct cooktops and exposed refrigerators. Keep in mind that an alcove may eliminate any storage cupboards that could have been situated above or beside the cooktop, so be sure to consider this when planning your kitchen layout. pinterest pinterest decorpad.com
Colour Drenching is when the entire room is painted in one colour from the ceiling to the baseboard. It's a way to create drama in a room. This trend may come and go, but there will always be those who love the look and those who don't. I also like it, but it depends on adequate lighting and a room with architectural features to break up the walls. Choosing a mid-tone colour, not too dark and not too light, is a safe option as long as you love the colour. Also, consider if the room has a cold visual feel – it's best to choose a warm colour. If the room has a hot visual feel, choose a cool colour. An option is to paint just the ceiling with a high gloss paint for a luminous look that reflects the light and use matte paint on the walls for an affordable high-end look. Images Mylands.com Design Dispatch Benjamin Moore HomestoLove.com jamiekeefeinteriors.com
Remember the following: Most homes typically have cornices, (if you have cornices instead of a square set) doors, and architraves. It's best to keep the cornices the same colour as the ceiling, typically white, while the architraves and doors are best kept white or timber stained for continuity throughout the home. Keeping these elements neutral allows for different wall colours in each room without creating clashes or visual disconnections. It is recommended to keep the architraves and doors the same colour for a cohesive look. Images Apartment Therapy Veranda.com
Kitchen exhaust hoods are a vital component of any kitchen. Proper ventilation is essential for maintaining good air quality inside our homes. They are designed to eliminate smoke, heat, and grease from the air, and also provide lighting directly over the cooktop. If possible, it's best to have the cooktop against a wall rather than on an island. However, if you have an island in your kitchen, you may opt for an island range hood suspended from the ceiling directly over the cooktop, although they can be quite dominant. An alternative is a retractable downdraft hood, which is installed directly into countertops and vents air down into ductwork beneath the floor. Kitchen range hood designs now vary greatly in terms of shapes, materials, and sizes. They can be made of materials like plaster, wood, metal, and marble, offering a wide range of options beyond the traditional stainless steel appliances. Image one Pinterest Image two Zen Living Image three Viral Homes Image four Viral Homes
Small island bench, two pendant lights, or just one at one end of the bench, larger island ideally three, three I feel should be the maximum, again the odd number rule, 1, 3, or 5. Choose a sturdy style of shade, thin glass breaks easily. It is best to keep the cooktop and oven to a wall rather than the island. A proper exhaust is important to quickly remove airborne grease particles. Pendants placed over a cooktop will become greasy and dusty very quickly, as will open shelving. The first image is from Architectural Digest. There is no island but a timber table, over which is a stunning pendant, fitting in beautifully with the kitchen design. The next image from Thptlaihoa.edu.vn shows a stylish long island. If the three lights are spread along the island, they would look too far apart, so they have gathered the three at one end. These things are often just what looks right. Pendants too close will look just as bad. I would place the stools at the other end for balance. The third image is from The Spruce and is a perfect example of the correct number of lights and correctly spaced, hopefully there is ample elbow room between each stool. The next two images are from Decorilla. The three pendant lights are perfect for the space and the stunning white pendant light is a stylish addition. Decorilla.com Decorilla.com
Colour is making a comeback, so why not start with the bathroom or powder room—spaces where you spend less time, making them perfect for experimenting with bold choices? While tiling every wall can be expensive, prioritising the shower and vanity backsplash is essential. To add personality and depth, consider incorporating a gorgeous paint colour or vinyl wallpaper.
For inspiration, the first bathroom featured on HGTV is a stunning mix of tile and paint. The coral walls, brass hardware, and captivating artwork tie the space together beautifully. Another bold example is the yellow bathroom by Architecture Art Design, where white accents on the ceiling, doors, and window frames create balance and cohesion. A third design from Pinterest showcases an aqua-painted ceiling with walls in a quarter-strength variation of the same colour, maintaining harmony through tonal consistency.
The secret to choosing the perfect colour is to explore a variety of options and select one that speaks to you personally. This way, you’re sure to love your choice for years to come.
If you’re considering a bathroom renovation and plan to alter the layout, it’s wise to consult a plumber from the outset to avoid unexpected costs. Ideally, the toilet should not be the first thing you see upon entering. Even better, opt for a separate toilet with a small vanity. Additionally, keeping the toilet away from dining and kitchen areas is ideal—soundproofing may be a practical consideration in such cases. Bathrooms are significant investments, so thorough planning is key to achieving a space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. A professional installation is highly recommended, as it requires careful attention to pipe locations, water pressure, plumbing, and drainage. Ensure that the flooring can support a heavy bathtub and that proper waterproofing measures are in place. Water damage often means removing fixtures and even walls to find the source of the leak. You don't want your bathroom to become a termite spa. thespruce.com homedit.com katewalkerdesign.com.au digsdigs.com homedecorbliss.com lovelyharbor.com kbhwriting.com
What elements make a bedroom different or unique? Whether large or small, a bedroom can be special if you work with the space you have. A small bedroom should have minimal furniture, a basic bed, side tables, and maybe a dresser. For a larger bedroom with a walk-in robe, a dresser in the room is not necessary. Try to keep furniture away from the bed and consider separating the space into two sections for a more comfortable layout. In a large room, an oversized comfy chaise with a side table might be a great addition, creating a cozy corner for relaxation without disturbing the made bed. The rooms in the example above are spacious, and the structural design enhances the overall feel of the space. It's important to think beyond the standard bed when designing a bedroom. Roohome.com
Please remember the following points about displaying family images: Consider keeping family images private by displaying them in areas like an upstairs passageway, rather than showcasing them by the front door. It can feel intrusive to have personal family portraits on display as guests enter your home. A gallery wall, such as the one featured on thecreativityexchange.com, is a great example. It allows you to display personal items collected over the years in an office setting. Pay attention to the size of the wall when arranging your display, as seen in the large, tall wall example from thefinancialdiet.com. The images should reflect the size of the wall. Balance is crucial. The colours in the images can bring life to a plain white wall, but on a dark wall, they might be less effective. Finally, the neat and orderly format for a gallery, as shown in the fourth image, is a good example to follow. Be mindful not to overcrowd the display with too many images. Pinterest thecreativityexchange.com
A well-balanced room consists of three sections: the floor, walls, and the ceiling. This can often be observed in hotel foyers, where every element in the room is carefully considered to achieve a stunning design. Embrace every surface, as this style does not leave any walls, ceilings, or floors bare. Over time, acquire treasures for your home that serve as reminders of the places you have been and the people you have met, making it personal. Pinterest Elle Decor Decorilla.com
Furniture stores are typically spacious, and the items may seem smaller than they actually are. A $200 delivery charge can quickly turn into $1000 if the furniture needs to be dismantled or lifted up through a neighbour's veranda. Issues may arise at the front door, in the lift or stairwell, and finally in the intended room. Before making a purchase, use the measurements provided in the store, take them home, and assess whether the furniture can fit through each door, lift, or stairwell. This will help you avoid unnecessary stress and financial loss. To determine if the furniture fits inside your home, mark out its shape on the floor using, for example, a pack of cards. Imagine walking around the piece to see if it's too big or too small for the room. The room's dimensions should dictate your decision, rather than what you see in a spacious showroom. people.com ramsaysmoving.com
Many homes feature laundry areas discreetly located in a cupboard, often in the kitchen, hallway, or near an exterior door for convenient access to an outdoor clothesline. If you are fortunate to have a spacious laundry, this could reflect the needs of a family or a dedicated area for tasks like washing pets. In either case, it’s crucial to select durable materials that can withstand the demands of daily use.
For optimal functionality, consider a tiled floor and splashback, a stainless steel laundry tub, and matching stainless steel tapware. Most importantly, opt for a laminated benchtop. Although timber—even when sealed—can lend a warm aesthetic, it is vulnerable to denting, scratching, and water damage, making it less practical. While stone benchtops, such as granite or man-made composites, are popular choices for kitchens and bathrooms, they are not essential in the laundry. Laminates, on the other hand, are a cost-effective and resilient option, often lasting 10 to 15 years or more with proper care.
When selecting a laminate benchtop, opt for one that complements your kitchen's style. For example, pair a stone kitchen bench with a laminate in a contrasting or matching tone. Consider profiles like the squareform, which provides a seamless and modern appearance. However, avoid the bullnose profile, as spills can track underneath and damage the cupboard fronts, leading to swelling. Note that not all laminates are compatible with specific profiles, so double-check availability.
Lastly, remember that the laundry is a space you interact with frequently. Ensure it is practical, well-ventilated, and inviting—a place where daily tasks feel less like chores and more like routine ease.
Laminex.com Polytec.com Laminated Benchtopscom.au withinthegroove.com pinterest genevacabinet.com tricklecreekhomes.ca pinterest goodhousekeeping.com justinesterling.com elledecor.com pinterest courtneysworld.co pinterest decortrick.com pinterest pinterest
"If we are fortunate and choose wisely, we can have elements that will not date. A leather sofa is a classic example, and industrial lighting is essential for a loft. Rich browns and tans, the colours of nature, along with leopard skin cushions and luxurious velvets, as well as the warmth and beauty of brick, can be incorporated both inside and outside the home. Whether it's the interior decor or the exterior facade with the colours of nature, you can't go wrong." designconundrum.com amara.com lmhome.com.au lmhome.com.au
Avoid creating a statement wall or wallpapering only one side of a four-sided room. Opt for wallpapering the entire room instead of the dated ‘feature wall’ for maximum impact and a finished look. The only time I would use wallpaper as a feature wall would be in a teens or child's room or a nursery. However, certain wallpapers can be visually tiring and too busy. These types and patterns are best used above a wainscot rather than on all the walls. Intense wallpapers work well in less frequented spaces, like a powder room with wainscoting. Be cautious with patterns: avoid small prints in large rooms and large prints in small rooms, as a small pattern in a large space can become tiring quickly, and a large print can overpower a small space. Either way, you may become sick of the wallpaper quickly, so choose an appropriate design. There’s nothing quite like wallpaper for giving instant color and style to a room. If you’re not keen on busy patterns, look for wallpapers with texture, such as grasscloth. This will lend the room an interesting textural appeal. Remember the base colour should represent the depth of colour in the room, black base - dark room, white base, light room. You have to like colour and pattern to be a fan of wallpaper. etsy.com etsy.com etsy.com etsy.com
When choosing a rug for your dining room, consider the following guidelines:
Avoid mismatched shapes. Match the shape of your dining table. The rug's shape should complement the table. For instance, pair a round table with a round rug, a square table with a square rug, and a rectangular table with a rectangular rug. For example, using a round rug under a square or rectangular table can feel disjointed and out of sync with the room's overall look.
Ensure the rug is large enough to fit the table and chairs. Ideally, the rug should accommodate all table legs and chairs, even when the chairs are pulled out. This creates a balanced and harmonious dining area.
Prioritise style and comfort, but size matters most. While a rug can define the dining space and add elegance, it’s better to forgo one entirely than to use a rug that’s the wrong size. A too-small rug can disrupt functionality and appear out of place.
Factor in practicality. Consider the rug's care and maintenance, especially if it will be placed under a dining table or in a high-traffic area. Choose a material and style that are easy to clean and suitable for everyday use.
There are four main types of floor tiles: terracotta, quarry, porcelain, and ceramic. Each type has different qualities, but ceramic tiles are often preferred for their affordability, especially for large areas. When choosing ceramic tiles, opt for ones with a cushion edge rather than a rectified edge, as they are cheaper and easier to lay.
Tiles are graded from 1 to 5, with Grade 1 being the thinnest and Grade 5 being the thickest. It's recommended to aim for Grade 4. The body of a tile, also known as the bisque or biscuit, should have a light grey base rather than an orange clay look.
Ceramics are man-made to resemble natural stone or concrete, with some having minimal patterns and textures while others have a more pronounced appearance. Porcelain tiles are also durable and long-lasting, do not require sealing, so no maintenance and are non-porous and stain resistant. Real stone tiles require sealing, are high maintenance, are porous and stain easily and are prone to bacteria and mould.
If you live in a predominantly cold climate, tiles may not be the best option as they tend to be cold. Consider installing underfloor heating, especially in bathrooms and kitchens, where tiles are the best flooring option due to their durability and resistance to staining.
Keep grout lines to a minimum and opt for a soft grey colour that complements any tile colour. When choosing floor tiles, aim for a size that complements the overall design, such as the 600 x 600 tile. Select a tile that harmonises with the existing elements in the space, such as timber, kitchen and bathroom cupboards, carpet, and wall colour, for continuity. Choose a simple finish to ensure the tile doesn't quickly become dated, and ensure the surface has some texture for safety, especially in wet conditions. Some large floor tiles have an arrow impression on the back, indicating each tile should be laid in the same direction to counter any manufacturing edge discrepancies. Cement tiles are colourful, handcrafted tiles known for their high durability. Here, we have a combination of ceramic and cement tiles that work beautifully together. Colour variations are expected—lighter, darker, less or more intensely hued—making each tile unique. Cement tiles are porous, meaning they can absorb liquids and stains if not properly sealed. However, with proper installation and maintenance, including sealing before and after grouting and periodic resealing, cement tiles can last for decades. In moisture-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms, the porous nature of cement tiles can be a concern, so consider ceramic tiles instead. Combining ceramic and cement tiles can balance each other out with complementary patterns and plain designs. There is a new tile option now available, and it's a vinyl tile. LifeProof vinyl tiles are highly waterproof, scratch-resistant, and durable for long-lasting beauty with quick and easy application, a real game changer in the flooring world. wayfair.com lifeproofsflooring.com homedit.com mromavolley.co elledecor.com wayfair.com
Ideally, the bedhead should be placed on the largest wall that does not have windows or a door in it. Also when walking into a bedroom you don't want to see the side of the bed, rather the bed should be placed in front of you and placed in the centre. If possible, keep all furniture away from the windows, and allow for circulation of air and natural light, putting a bed in front of a window will make the room look smaller especially if the bed has a solid headboard. Make the placement of the bed a priority, other elements in the room must take second place. The first image by thediyplaybook.com shows the perfect style of bedhead for being in front of a window. The rungs allow plenty of light to enter and the windows are accessible. There will always be situations where the room dictates due to windows, doors, and cupboards, so do the best you can with what you have. The second image again shows the perfect headboard in this charming room bythespruce.com The third image from home-designing.com shows a room with lots in it, maybe more of an office than a bedroom. I feel that the head of the bed should be opposite the door where the cupboards are, though still a lovely style.
New Ravenna has established a reputation for having the world’s most exquisite collection of custom stone and glass mosaics, featuring luxurious designs of marble, glass, metals, and stone. Elevate your bathroom or kitchen with unique and stunning designs that stand the test of time. By using natural elements and timeless, cutting-edge designs, your space will never feel dated. These mosaics are durable for both floors and walls, offering exceptional quality. Why not create a little drama in the bar? The splashback is the opportunity to take your bar area style to the next level. The area is smaller than a bathroom, so a much smaller quantity of tiles is required and as a splashback install, it's very straight forward. newravenna.co revertilers.com.au newravenna.com newravenna.com newravenna.com courtneysworld.co instagram.com
"Modern powder rooms, despite their small size, are crucial functional spaces in the home. They should provide everyday convenience for families and guests while maintaining a stylish appearance. When deciding on a style, consider whether it needs to be in keeping with a nearby main bathroom or a standalone space. A separate room offers the opportunity to choose a gorgeous wallpaper, which is affordable as only a small amount is required. Don't just paint the walls a vibrant colour; consider adding wallpaper, perhaps painting the ceiling, choosing beautiful tapware, a toilet, a mirror, stunning lighting, and, of course, tiling the floor. Impress your guests with your creative talent." ctinstyle.com ctinstyle.com livinator.com wallmirrors.eu housebeautiful.com edwardgeorgelondon.com cruzinteriorsinc.com edwardgeorgelondon.com innovativedesignbuild.com lauraparkdesigns.com pinterest pinterest pinterest pinterest pinterest pinterest pinterest pinterest
