Create a Unique Space to Impress Your Guests

A half bath, powder room, or guest bathroom is the perfect place to have fun with wallpaper and paint. Here's how to create a space that stands out:

Choose Your Wallpaper: Select a wallpaper you love, then pick one of the colours from the pattern to use throughout the room. Avoid introducing new colours not present in the wallpaper, as it can add unnecessary elements.

Simplicity is Key: Let the colour and pattern of the wallpaper create a unique atmosphere. If the wallpaper is too intense, tone it down by reducing its exposure and adding wainscoting to match the trim and doors, rather than just applying wallpaper to one wall.

Freedom of Design: Since it’s a small space and not used frequently, you have the freedom to experiment. I recommend using a low-sheen or matte enamel finish for durability for the vanity. The wallpaper can be any paper finish, as there's no exposure to water like in a showering bathroom.

Neutral Elements: Keep window frames, doors, and architraves white or warm white to ensure any colourway will not clash. Similarly, opt for simple, neutral tiles for the floor to maintain harmony with the wallpaper's pattern and colours.

Stay True to Your Home's Style: Make sure the design aligns with your home’s overall vibe. For instance, a beach look wouldn’t suit a bush setting.  etsy.com   dunbarroaddesign.com karahebertinteriors.com

Mustard condiment is made from ground mustard seeds and vinegar. Love it or hate it, mustard yellow is a sumptuous colour that everyone is talking about. This vibrant shade represents hopefulness, confidence, creativity, and acceptance. The exact hue of mustard can vary depending on the ratio of yellow and brown pigments used. 

Mustard yellow can be utilised both inside and outside the home, perhaps opting for a slightly lighter shade indoors and a more brownish tone outdoors. Colour is influenced greatly by light. Mustard is proving extremely popular as it can work beautifully with many colour schemes. Mustard yellow pairs well with colours such as eggshell blue, teal blue, dark green, Bordeaux, warm grey, eggplant, burnt orange, vermilion and of course, warm neutrals and black.

As one of the most popular shades of yellow, mustard is often seen in interior design, clothing, and fashion. This darker shade of yellow belongs to the yellow colour spectrum and is renowned for its warm and earthy tone, bringing a unique charm and style to any palette. Painting some walls and furniture in mustard yellow creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. pinterest  pinterest  taubmans.com  hearthandpetals.com

1. This bedroom dresser combines refinement and style with meticulous attention to detail in its design and finish. 2. This versatile small-scale lamp is suitable for shelves, small side tables, or any space. The reflection from the brass base complements the soft light diffused by the acrylic shade. 3. This Art Deco Polished Brass & Bakelite Ice Bucket with a matching scoop is a beautiful piece from France, Circa 1930. 4. A unique design featuring two separate side tables, each with only two legs. This nesting side table set is crafted from cast blackened and waxed steel. 5. The Gaia chair is perfect as a dining side chair but can also be used as an accent piece or for convenient seating in any space. 6. This custom round mirror is a contemporary Italian piece, entirely handmade with a unique design in perforated lace brass. 7. A sturdy set of three American pottery vessels in beige, black striped, and natural colours with gilt gold highlights and crackling glaze. These beautiful pieces will add a unique touch to your home and belongings. 1stdibs.com 1stdibs.com  1stdibs.com 1stdibs.com  1stdibs.com  1stdibs.com 1stdibs.com

"Most sofas are upholstered in durable 100% polyester fabric because it is more affordable to produce compared to cotton and linen, and is tougher than natural fibres. Many sofas have fixed seats with loose back cushions, or fixed back cushions and loose seat cushions. Ideally, if you can get seperate back and seat cushions that are removable from the frame, it will be easier to remove and wash the covers. this feature should be listed when making the purchase: the ability to easily remove, wash, and put the covers back on. Generally, the loose back cushions are easier to remove, but some seat covers are impossible to take off and put back on, especially if there is a small degree of shrinkage. In that case, I would recommend having the seat cushions professionally cleaned in place. Stains will show up on fabric regardless of the colour, so try to purchase sofas that are easy to clean and choose the colour you love. Be aware that you only have half an hour to remove any spills or soiling: otherwise, it becomes a stain. Keep a bottle of unopened quality soda water in your laundry for such spills: the aerated water helps to lift the spill. Scrape off any food and then use the soda water, removing the water by firmly patting dry the fabric. Professional or home extraction kits using hot water extraction to rinse the fabric and remove the grime work best. Spraying your sofas with Scotchguard stops the soiling and liquids from penetrating deep into the fabric. luxoliving.com.au  livingstyles.com.au  livingstyles.com.au

Table lamps can provide ambient or task lighting or simply brighten up a dark corner. Look for a unique lamp that reflects your style and personality. Choose a lamp that is appropriately sized for its location; small lamps work well for dark corners on kitchen or bathroom benches, while bedside lamps should be at least 24 to 28 inches in height (61 to 71 cm). When selecting a lamp, consider whether you need it for reading or illuminating a larger area with a cloth shade. Table lamps are also great for buffets or credenzas near dining tables, rather than using an overhead pendant light.  radilum.com radilum.com thelightingoutlet.com.au  lampsplus.com  replicafurniture.com.au fentonandfenton.com.au 

It's easy to walk into a furniture store and buy all your furniture that matches, is contemporary, and is available. The only problem is that it is mass-produced, and furniture stores sell the same thing repeatedly. Let's say you have a piece of furniture that a family member gave to you. It's unique, but often the timber colour is orange, red, yellow, or dark brown, which may not be the colours you had in mind. The colour should be updated rather than giving the furniture to someone else (who may paint it). There is nothing wrong with stained timber, especially if you have a traditional style home, and the antique furniture piece fits beautifully with your aesthetic. Value antiques may be the exception to the rule.   pinterest  pinterest   thewoolacorn.blogspot.com  homebnc.com 

Remember the following information: The bed can be an expensive addition to a room. The base, mattress, and linen can add up. Considering how long we sleep each night, it's a worthwhile investment. When your toddler moves out of the cot, you might think about getting a small bed, like a single one. However, you would be better off choosing a king single. The king single is longer and wider, making it the perfect bed for when your child is pre-adolescent. A quality mattress should last around ten years, so it is a worthwhile investment. In early childhood, the bed becomes a play area, with kids generally jumping up and down on it. This can lead to injuries, as the frame of the bed is often made of timber or metal. That's why I recommend an ensemble, the firm base is further from being dangerous, and the headboard adds comfort and protects the wall. Drawers in the base offer storage solutions, and often the colour selection of the bed frame is limited, so you might want to choose a neutral colour like grey to go with most other colours. A waterproof mattress protector is essential against accidents, helping to keep the mattress clean from spills, sweat and stains. We should clean the mattress protector at least every other month to keep it hygienic. After all, mattress protectors are designed to protect and we don't want stains on our expensive mattresses.  bedsahead.com  fantasticfurniture.com.au tontine.com.au 

Elevate Your Home Decor with Cushions:

 Introduce a touch of elegance and comfort to your home with cushions crafted from luxurious linens, velvets, and rich tactile textures. Natural fibres seamlessly complement both modern and classic interiors, providing a versatile foundation for your decor. Cushions offer a splendid opportunity to experiment with stripes, florals, and various patterns, or even to match the fabric of your sofa for a cohesive look.

 When selecting cushions, it’s best to avoid those with decorative additions like sewn-on elements, bold patterns, shiny finishes, intense colours, or unconventional shapes. Instead, opt for cushions in classic square or rectangular shapes to maintain a harmonious aesthetic. Ideally, position two cushions at one end of the sofa and one at the other to ensure the space isn't overwhelmed.

foter.com yorkshirebedding.co.uk pinterest  pinterest  pinterest pinterest

"Whether it's a shop you're visiting or a home, the more dramatic the room, the more memorable it becomes. Navy and white, or black and white, create contrast and are especially effective when applied uniquely. A little black in a room is important to ground a room; a little black adds sophistication. Think outside the box and try the unexpected. Also, finding decor and furnishings that are rare and treasured takes time, and although it's not the most affordable path, it's worth it in the long run because what you've created is uniquely you."  homehop.com  essentialhome.eu  Images from Pinterest

Murals and prints have become increasingly popular, offering a fun and whimsical vibe. There are numerous high-quality images available to help you create a unique and personal touch. Prints are more affordable and easier to install and remove, which is especially convenient for renters. On the other hand, murals are more expensive since they cover an entire wall and require paste to adhere, although some are available as peel-and-stick options (it's important to have solid surfaces and walls in good condition, especially when removing the mural). Both options are great, but the choice depends on the size of the wall and the chosen image. A mural is perfect for a large wall and can create a stunning feature wall. ukposters.co.uk wallpapershop.co.uk ukposters.co.uk wallpapershop.co.uk 

I generally find black and white striped walls very severe and dominating. Here we have a selection of walls with stripes that show how the colors and the width of the stripes combined with the elements in the room can make a great impact. The layering in the first image makes the green and pink stripes a beautiful backdrop to a selection of art. The second image shows black and white stripes that are finer, like ticking material. Image three demonstrates how much nicer the stripes look when colour is used. It's important to remember that black and white are technically not colours, so the red and white stripes create a dramatic accent for this foyer. The navy and white horizontal stripes are a stunning addition to an otherwise simple passageway, and the colourful art adds an even greater dimension. It's important to be aware that vertical stripes add height and horizontal stripes add width, so use this knowledge to your benefit. Also, be a little braver in areas of your home that are typically dismissed and make them stand out.  smithhonig.com pinterest housebeautiful.com  hadleycourt.com washingtonian.com

"When you walk into a room and feel agitated because you think it's cluttered and can't wait to leave, it's easy to know where your preferences lie. On the other hand, some find the same surroundings exciting and are happy to view every piece. A maximalist is not a hoarder, but rather a collector who carefully plans each addition to create a cohesive room. It can take years to gather unique pieces of furniture and decor, some of which may be very expensive while others are thrifted. Aim for a layered, personal, and collected look. Maximalism doesn't mean having a lot of clutter, its not an excuse to be untidy, its showing off the beautiful things we have gathered over the years.  The first image features a mirrored ceiling, utilizing its reflective qualities to elevate the ceiling, or 5th wall, to a whole new level. The second image shows how easily two rooms can become one by removing a good portion of the wall, opening up the space, allowing light to enter, and making the rooms appear larger. The third image is a very controlled form of maximalism with a limited palette but all surfaces are fully utilized. Need a room for books? Simply add custom shelving to make use of what could have been wasted space. Bare walls are not even considered by a true maximalist." rugsociety.eu   soft-hummingbird  ahouseinthehills.com  smithhonig.com 

Faux finishes have been used for centuries to create the illusion of different surfaces, adding texture and dimension to a wall. Many grand homes economized by painting walls to look like timber rather than using the real thing. A faux finish is a painting technique that adds depth and interest to an otherwise flat surface. Once you see the finish, you realize how boring a plain wall can be. An easy way to update the look of any room is to use a colour wash technique that adds several thin layers of paint to your walls. Another option for a faux finish on walls is to use a glaze. A glaze is a medium you use to mix with paint to manipulate the depth and variations of colour. Choose rich, earthy colours to create a room full of character and style.  tisdalmanor.com marioninteriordesign.com  pinterest  billingsblessingbags.org  spatespainting.com

Here are some examples of sofa placements combined with an ottoman or a coffee table. Sofas come in various sizes and shapes, and we choose them for different reasons, such as comfort, to complete the lounge room, and to create a style that suits us. Sofas and occasional chairs are usually quite large, so it's important to have the right coffee table or ottoman to fit your layout for aesthetics and comfort. Our guide shows different configurations and the best-sized coffee table or ottoman to use. It's important to choose a size that complements the sofas; a tiny table with a huge sofa will not look right, and vice versa. Scale is an important factor to consider in order to get the correct proportions. The ottoman or coffee table should be at least two-thirds the length of the longest sofa. 

If you're looking for art with meaning, consider maps. Not only are they beautiful to look at, but they also showcase the history of navigation over the centuries as brave explorers ventured into the New World. Maps are perfect for an office, a rumpus room, or a bar and make great conversation pieces. Choose a map with a colour palette that matches your furniture and decor. You can also select a map representing where you live or a country you want to visit. When it comes to framing, you can go for a modern floating frame or a rich gold decorative-style frame – any style will work, as maps are timeless and classical.  childforallseasons.com antiqueprintmaproom.com antiqueprintmaproom.com happywall.com  happywall.com 

Rugs offer a variety of benefits—they define spaces or walkways, provide warmth underfoot with insulating properties, and add texture, colour, and pattern to the floor. Often, the style of a rug reflects its country of origin; for instance, a hand-knotted rug from Nepal showcases its unique craftsmanship. A well-chosen rug can elevate the appearance of a timber floor, breaking up vast expanses, and pairing it with a striking piece of art creates a cohesive and strong design statement.

When selecting a rug, consider the size and shape of your room, your colour scheme, and your flooring type. The size of the rug is particularly important—choose one that accommodates key furniture pieces such as a sofa, armchairs, and a coffee table. A rug serves as the anchor for your design, with its colours often echoed throughout the room.

Ask yourself: What type of aesthetic am I aiming for? This question will guide you toward a rug style that suits your vision. As you can see, the styles of rugs can vary greatly, from bold patterns and colours to muted, neutral designs, so take your time choosing as the range available is vast. For carpeted floors, placing a rug requires special consideration. Furniture legs can sink into the rug, causing edges to pucker and creating potential tripping hazards. Additionally, think about the material and maintenance requirements of the rug—while wool is luxurious, it is prone to absorbing stains easily. thesofaandchair.co.uk missamara.com.au  missamara.com.au  missamara.com.au therugcollection.com.au jennyjonesrugs.com iconicrugs.com.au  johnlewis.com  johnlewis.com   iconicrugs.com.au  iconicrugs.com.au iconicrugs.com.au iconicrugs.com.au  therugcompany.com therugcompany.com therugcompany.com janeclayton.co.uk  janeclayton.co.uk  janeclayton.co.uk

The best inspiration for a luxury bathroom often comes from those found in high-end hotels. If you have a generous budget and ample time to source stunning fixtures and tiles, you can create the bathroom of your dreams. It's uncommon to see white cabinets or tiles in a luxury setting; instead, materials like marble, granite, and porcelain tiles are frequently used, often reaching to the ceiling. A luxury soaker tub is essential, but be aware that many have rounded bottoms, which can make it difficult to stretch out your legs. It's wise to sit in the tubs at showrooms to ensure they suit your height, go to a showroom, take your shoes off and climb right in making sure you fit and are comfortable.  Luxury lighting is a crucial element in achieving a high-end look. Consider adding a statement light fixture, as well as lighting on either side of the mirrors.  Ambient lighting throughout the room can highlight unique features and create a warm atmosphere. Under floor heating and a towel warming rail plus an over heat heater and exhaust make make your time spent in the bathroom a pleasure.  Finally, don’t forget to include thick, luxurious towels and robes to enhance comfort.  luxurybathrooms.eu   artofit.org tv-darkside.blogspot.com au.pinterest.com 

Create a stunning focal point in your bedroom with a bespoke upholstered headboard. A headboard is a piece of furniture that attaches to the head of a bed or the wall, providing both comfort and style to your bed base and mattress. It plays a significant role in transforming the overall look and feel of a bedroom, creating an eye-catching focal point with minimal effort. Ensemble beds are a great choice for bedding because traditional frames can move and squeak, causing disturbances. An ensemble offers 100% comfort, as it remains stable, and the headboard is completely separate. This design also allows for easy cleaning behind the bed, helping to remove dust and access architraves. Additionally, headboards provide comfortable back support when sitting up in bed, making them far more inviting than a hard wall. If you enjoy reading, using a laptop, or watching television in bed, you'll appreciate the comfort of a padded and upholstered headboard. Once you experience this level of comfort, you'll never want anything else. Headboards can be wall-mounted using a French cleat, which is often considered the best option. Wall fixing is the recommended option for large headboards as it’s simple and secure. They come in a wide variety of types and sizes to meet your needs, along with an extensive selection of fabrics. It’s advisable to choose a durable fabric like velvet or polyester, which can be professionally cleaned if necessary. While there are many shapes to choose from, prioritise padding over hard surfaces. Keep the design simple and consider a plain fabric that complements the colours in the room. It's best to avoid patterned fabrics that may become dated, as well as tufted designs, which often have a more traditional feel. 

Enhance your entertaining experience with a stylish home bar. The size of your bar will depend entirely on the space you have available. Bars can take various forms, such as a sideboard, a cupboard, a corner of the room, or even an entire room. Here are four examples of home bars, from an entire room to an alcove. Where you place your bar doesn't matter as much as ensuring that it is comfortable and allows guests to help themselves with drinks. You want to avoid making your bar resemble a typical pub or a kitchen. Consider whether your bar will include a water source for a sink.  Although adding plumbing for a water supply can be quite involved, it is worth the effort. Additionally, think about incorporating a wine or beverage refrigerator. A wall-mounted glass and brass shelf for displaying bottles and glassware can add a touch of elegance to the space. Ambient lighting is a must so keep the lights subdued. By focusing on comfort, practicality, and style, you can create a welcoming area to unwind.  1stdibs.com  1stdibs.com 1stdibs.com pinterest 

Art is a wonderful addition to any room design, reflecting a personality and style that is uniquely yours. When it comes to art, it’s often a matter of love or hate; choose pieces that hold personal significance to you, and you will always appreciate them. In a bar setting, art can showcase your interests, transforming the space into a true man cave or woman cave. It serves as a conversation starter, allowing your guests to get to know what you enjoy. The images you select can provide inspiration that goes beyond typical sporting interests.  templeandwebster.com.au templeandwebster.com.au  templeandwebster.com.au templeandwebster.com.au  templeandwebster.com.au  templeandwebster.com.au wallartprints.com.au  wallartprints.com.au wallartprints.com.au 

No matter the size of your home, there is an ottoman that will meet your needs. Ottomans are essential for any living room, bedroom, spare room, office, or even at the foot of your bed. They combine stylish functionality and practicality. Ottomans are ideal for putting your feet up, creating extra space, and providing additional seating while adding character to your home. You can place a tray on top to convert it into a serving area as well. Ottomans offer extra seating without obstructing the view, making them a convenient addition to bathrooms or walk-in wardrobes, where they can serve as seating or a place to lay out clothes for the day. Designed to accommodate your home’s essentials, these ottomans come in various colours, sizes, and styles to match your taste and instantly elevate your living space. One of the key advantages of an ottoman is that it is the perfect height for putting on your shoes. Therefore, positioning an ottoman by your front or back door or in the mudroom makes it a practical item for everyday use. When selecting fabric, choose a hard-wearing option like polyester rather than cotton or linen. Cushion-top ottomans may lose their shape over time, so consider getting one with a fixed, well-padded top instead. If you choose a storage ottoman, keep in mind that once it is filled, it may become difficult to move, risking damage to the legs. This selection showcases different types of finishes, so think beyond the ordinary and consider creating something special by modifying and upholstering an old coffee table or small dining table.   chairish.com chairish.com  chairish.com  1stdibs.com  1stdibs.com  1stdibs.com  1stdibs.com  1stdibs.com

Square Ottomans 

450 x 450 x 400 H

630 x 630 x 400 H

900 x 900 x 400 H

Round Ottomans 

                                                        480 DIA x400 H

                                                        600 DIA x 400 H

                                                       900 DIA x 400 H

Rectangle Ottomans 

400 x 500 x 400 H

450 x 600 x 400 H 

480 x 700 x 400 H

600 x 1200 x 400 H

Bench Ottoman 

1500 x 450 x 450 H

Square Cushion and Rectangle Cushion 

500 x 500 and 400 x 600

Here, we present a selection of what we believe are perfectly sized ottomans. While custom-made options allow for any size you desire, these popular dimensions are designed for ease of handling, transporting, and moving around the home. I have not included storage ottomans, as the hydraulic arms often fail, they can be cumbersome when full, and the risk of the lid falling on little fingers is a significant concern. The style options are endless, and the range of fabrics is extensive, so feel free to be creative. Additionally, round ottomans should come with round feet, square ottomans with square feet, and rectangular ottomans can have either square or elongated feet. If you have an ottoman in your home, I can guarantee that you will use it daily, especially excellent for putting on your shoes, so one in the mud room is a welcome addition. 

pinterest urbanologydesigns.com  dgoi.co.uk contohsurat2mu.blogspot.com 

All-white bathrooms create a sense of space, reflect light, and provide a blank canvas that is calming, classic, and timeless. White is the most popular bathroom choice for a reason. Generally, white tiles and bathroom fittings are cost-effective and easy to redecorate; painting the cabinet fronts is a simple change. Here are four white bathrooms: if you are happy with a clean and crisp white bathroom but would like to add some colour, an option is to paint the ceiling a soft colour that complements the bathroom and maybe the adjoining bedroom. Paint only the flat ceiling and not the cornice. Add an extra punch of colour with towels. When painting the ceiling, clean it first with sugar soap. Use matt or low-sheen paint, and if the bathroom is constantly prone to steam, use suitable bathroom paint. Unless your bathroom is oversized, 500ml to 1 litre is sufficient. There are different types of white to choose from, and whether it’s warm or cool can affect your bathroom. Bathroom-ready-made cabinets are a particular shade of white, so consider that shade as a guide for your tiles. Also, try to add texture with the style of tile to add interest. After all, white is the perfect neutral backdrop for any range of colours and materials, so take advantage of that.  Sherwin Williams - Tidewater  Sherwin Wiliams - Oleander Sherwin Williams - Aivary Blue  Sherwin Williams - Gray Screen smalldesignideas.com  decoist.com  luxurybathrooms.eu  pinterest

Those who like red have a zest for life, are competitive, and are not afraid to take risks. Those who prefer deeper reds are often more subtle. Red is a brave colour to use, and you will be rewarded as red rooms make a statement and impress those who enter. Whether it be lacquer, high gloss paint, wallpaper, or just paint, red demands attention and stimulates the senses. Red can create an ambience and a decadent atmosphere. It's often claimed to be unsuitable for bedrooms as it is a stimulating colour that can make sleep difficult. However, since colour is light, once the lights go out, all you see is varying shades of black. Create an energising and warm welcome with a red-painted hallway, library, or powder room. Choosing the right shade of red for an interior can be quite tricky, but if you take your time to select the right one, it can bring energy and style into your space. Gather a selection of paint swatches, as many as you can, adhere the samples to the wall in question and view the swatches day and night, remove the ones that are not appealing to you, and you should end up with the correct red. Red has limited pigment in the paint, so use an undercoat before you paint your walls red. This will give the paint an even and rich red instead of a dull red if a darker colour is the base. Some reds are more orange, brown, or blue, so choose carefully, making sure the red is perfect for the room. Paint swatches on the wall are a great way to find the perfect red.  A little red somewhere in a home, like a chair, wall art or a vase, the perfect addition.  pinterest  pinterest  housebeautiful.com   pinterest 

1stdibs.com 1stdibs.com 1stdibs.com 1stdibs.com 1stdibs.com 1stdibs.com

Chartreuse is a French liqueur first produced by Carthusian monks in 1737. Chartreuse is the colour directly between green and yellow, it was named because of its resemblance to the French liqueur. The greener is cooler, more yellow is warmer, a consideration for either a cool or warm room.   mydomaine.com elledecor.com  splendidhabitat.com  pinterest pinterest

johnlewis.com 

johnlewis.com 

johnlewis.com 

Dark, warm shades like rich reds and browns create a cozy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for bedrooms, dining rooms, powder rooms, and studies. These colors add depth and warmth; while it's true that they can make a room feel darker, this effect is mitigated by large windows that let in plenty of natural light, as well as white ceilings, cornices, and architraves.

However, be cautious when using these shades in small spaces or rooms with low ceilings, as they can make the space feel even smaller. The darker and richer the colour, the better as dark colours recede rather than advance, so a room can look larger than it is, it's a fine line.  The key to using chocolate tones effectively is selecting the right shade—darker shades can add sophistication, but lighter chocolate, such as milk chocolate, might not achieve the desired effect.

When adding furniture and decor to the room, avoid colors with a yellow base and opt for those with a beige base instead. Chocolate tones pair beautifully with rich timbers like dark walnut and wenge, rather than light oak or European ash. Above is a selection of browns, all suitable for creating a stylish, classy, and chic room. If you love chocolate, consider painting one wall as a feature, chocolate goes particularly well with a warm white. 

plan-home.com samplize.com  thelivinghouse.co.uk  pinterest

happywall.com  sassytownhouseliving.com    dallasprolist.com

"Whether you're hosting a casual brunch or a dinner party, inside or outside, laying out beautiful place settings will elevate any dining experience. It doesn't take much to set up an attractive tablescape. A collection of dining plates, gorgeous glasses, a stunning tablecloth, beautiful cutlery, and flowers are essential for any set table. Try to keep the central decoration at a comfortable height so guests can see and converse with the person opposite. Don't overload the table with lots of decorative items other than the essentials. By the time glassware, napkins, serving platters, salt and pepper, cutlery, and plates are on the table, it will be full. Prepare as much food the day before so you can spend the maximum amount of time with your guests. Good food and plenty to drink, a recipe for success.   sandersondesigngroup.com  williams-sonoma.com.au