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To dress or not to dress? Answered simply if you have extra space and a little time to spare. Think hotel‐style and dress to impress for your guest room.

This is your chance to create an Aladdin’s cave of gorgeousness and a place of sublime whimsy that doesn’t have to withstand the chaos and mess of everyday living.

Welcome Guests

Making a cosy nest is a primal human desire. It offers you the chance to go all‐out and create a space where your loved­‐ones will want to linger.

The trick to mastering this space is to combine luxurious surfaces and finish with sensitive details to ensure a look that is arresting and uplifting.

Your decorating solutions are waiting for you to get out your brushes and toolkit. Whether you want to create a look that dabbles in romance or will apply a minimalist approach, decorating the guestroom with love show just how much you care for your dear ones. Just don’t make it too exquisite, or they may never leave!

Bed -­ time

When putting together a boudoir, go all‐out. Why? Because the beauty of the guestroom is that once guest’s leave, the room can be a spare haven to inspire and an opportunity to show off your decorating finesse.

Indulge in a selection of heavenly tactile textures, contrasting patterns in a myriad of colours and weaves to create a seriously on-­trend layered look.

Think chunky knit throws, soft-­to-­touch sheep skin rugs, velvet cushions and gauzy fabrics to set the tone for how you want your space to feel.

For best results, mix colour and pattern freely, contrasting bold graphics with blocks of carefully selected tones to add more depth and warmth to the boudoir.

The key to creating an effortlessly styled bedroom is by dressing with an alchemy of layers and tactility.

Scene Stealer

Once you’ve got your style down pat, you will need to start thinking about how you will piece the furniture and look together. Before you commence any project you should always ask -­ what role do you want your space to play?

For example, you may want to decorate your guestroom in hotel-­style. Think soaps on pillows, fluffy cotton towels rolled in whitewashed shelving, and coordinated, striped bedding.

Alternatively, you may favor a homespun fusion of handmade delicacies. Here, a mismatch of patterns and textiles, and an array of vases with the latest seasonal blooms will hit all the right notes.

Step back and take a moment to consider the space, notice how the layers are conversing – loud, subtle or harmonised. Addressing the key elements of function style and composition will be crucial here. The most important element is balance.

Get the look…

• When decorating a guestroom, go about it as if you were decorating a sanctuary -­‐ a refuge to while away and recuperate from hectic everyday life.

• Creating the perfect guestroom is all in the details. This is an opportunity to go-to-town/over the top with style and theme. Think of this space as a holiday getaway.

• An alchemy of layers and textiles is a mainstay in the bedroom. Look to chunky knit blankets and intricate weaves to add instant impact on the bed.

• Fanciful details like candles and flowers always wake up a space, so be generous with an array around the room.

• Be thoughtful and place handwritten notes, soaps and chocolates on pillows to indulge your guests.

• Balance is key when trying to pull off a successful look and to ensure it is not overly saccharine.

We recommend...

- Boss Bed Inspired - Queen - Black

- Autumn Stripes - Quilt Cover Set - Queen

Image Sources:

#1 - Skona-­hem

#2 - Elle Interior

Whether you are looking to refurbish a space, ditch colour from your floors and walls or decorate a newly constructed space, you can’t go wrong with an all-­‐white scheme. A favourite base to work with for professional decorators, white will always enhance space and elevate an interior.

Reigning White

White space living calls for interiors that herald purity and simplicity. Evoking cool and calm, white adds freshness and is naturally a foil for other colours.

Think whitewashed floorboards and walls decked out in translucent whites; envisage sheer textures that ooze effortlessness and authenticity; and imagine rooms bathed in invigorating natural light.

White is a colour that always delights the senses and creates peacefulness in any space.

Right on White

For a harmonious atmosphere, ensure you keep the bones of your home simple.

Embrace clean, crisp whites over the floors and walls. Consider materials such as whitewashed wooden boards, stone or specially treated white cement. Bricks painted white can also look serene in an all white-­‐scheme.

Your walls and floors also offer you plenty of choice when decorating. From matte to glossy finishes, textured or muted surfaces, you can apply a chosen finish to just one wall or bathe the whole room.

Careful consideration of these vital surfaces sets the tone for how you want your room to feel, so getting this right is an important task.

Clean Mix

Once you’ve achieved surroundings of pure white, furnish with things that enhance and lift a room from sterile to magical.

An easily styled room could feature white space furnished with sumptuous materials -­‐ so splash out and layer pallid textures and accessories together.

Think whites in exquisite silks and chiffons, chalky greys and milky whites in wool and luxurious linens. Add whimsical elements through details such as lace, tulle and braided trims, or embellish with fabric flowers and beading.

Texture is an important element in an all white scheme and adds deep comfort to an atmosphere.

Paired Accents

A neutral atmosphere may call out for a colour injection, so engage your poetic licence and work some accent tones into heavenly white domains.

Pastels with pizzazz are defining the colour trends of the year -­‐ so consider girlish tones and interplay calming greys to enliven your all-­‐white scheme. Think soft shades of pinks, powder blues, violets and gelato tints and experiment with lighter and darker tones of colours.

Consider layering colourful cushions and textures on beds or sofas, dressing a coffee table with wonderful paraphernalia or turning a boring shelf into awe-­‐inspiring shrine of treasures.

Adding colour to a space through details is a great way to decorate a white space, especially when walls and floors need to be left plain.

Get the look…

• Cool, calm and honest, white never fails to delight the senses and creates peacefulness in a space.

• White and neutral tones create an illusion of space, so they are fabulous to use in small spaces.

• Keep the confines of your interiors minimal; deck out the floors and walls in the pale whites of the sea.

• Steer away from brilliant white paint as they contain a blue cast that will make rooms appear dull and grey. Instead, opt for a shade that includes a touch of pinky pigment for pure whiteness in the home.

• Introduce colour splashes via small details such as your accessories and artworks to garner greater depth out of your white surroundings.

We recommend...

- Barcelona Chair White - Premium Version - Replica

- Vintage Metal Cafe Chair - Xavier Pauchard Reproduction - White

Image Sources:

#1 - 79ideas

#2 - 79ideas

A very big thank you to our fans and customers for helping make Milan Direct one of the top 20 online retailers in Australia!

Thank you for supporting us whilst we have pioneered selling furniture online in Australia.

We love sharing our passion for designer furniture and home wares with you every day!

Read the article here.

Is your home begging for love and to be refreshed? Do some rooms need added warmth? Placing decorative emphasis on the confines of your abode is a smart way to transform bland walls into striking and visually engaging visual points of interest.

Think about how you can make the decorative details work together. Hunt around for great objects and artwork. Get creative with organising and mixing abandoned, timeworn, and treasured pieces.

Appreciating Impact

Once you have furnished your space with the things you love and yearn for, shift your thoughts to the decorative details and creative touches. Wall space is a crucial aspect of the home that deserves your attention. Whether it is a decorative display of ceramics, a bold display of artwork or simply a delightful arrangement of vintage mirrors, paying attention to walls is a great way to lift a tired room.

Start off by looking around you and sort through your treasured items to consider what will create the impact and add the details that your walls deserve. Consider objects that you remind you of great memories. The details and finishing touches are what transforms an ordinary room into extraordinary!

Artful Display

Consider displaying artwork and photographs. Start off by selecting pieces that create cohesion between the elements of style, colour, texture or shape.

For example, grouping items together by theme, such as an array of floral portraits or display of black and white prints, is the perfect way to create an engaging visual feast.

Grouping art collections on a wall fosters the meaningful elements that make a space a home and ultimately create that all-important touch of individuality and personality.

Housing Objects

Be innovative with your walls and shrewd with your space.

Maybe you could make a feature of one wall and dress it head to toe with shelving? Can you create a DIY box‐shelving unit to house your collections? Alternatively could you utilise mantels and window ledges as display space?

Unexpected artifacts, heir loomed pieces or a collection of vintage trophies can be creatively arranged with the assistance of shelving and display units on walls.

Spread your objects out across one wall or lean artwork over a mantle.

For example, discarded signs and vintage posters make a quirky yet cohesive display on a mantelpiece.

Soulful interiors are furnished with pieces that tell stories and create a statement about who you are.

Get the look…

• Place decorative emphasis on the confines of your abode. Transform tired walls into eye-catching statements to inject life and personality into your space.

• Start by examining your treasured items and objects. Whether you choose a decorative display of ceramics or a collection of found objects, your walls offer countless opportunities for visual adventures.

• The art of arrangement is in creating interest and impact through a variety of elements that hold one aspect of cohesion. Choose items that are cohesive either through colour, style, shape, texture or theme.

• On a mantelpiece, group a collection of ceramics according to height, function, style or colour, and play around with the positioning until you are satisfied that you have the perfect arrangement.

• Using your wall space well and decorating with artwork and treasured objects make a space into a special home.

We recommend...

- Union Jack Cushion 60 x 40

- Range of Wall Art Decals

Image Sources:

#1 - 79 Ideas

#2 - Assouline

A well thought out lighting scheme transforms any space. It is much more than the finishing touch,lighting is central to creating your desired mood in a space.

The key is to incorporate lighting into thedesign plan from the start, which involves scouring through a huge range of light fittings fromcontemporary pendants to drama queen chandeliers, to add instant impact into your interiors.

Let it shine

Achieving a perfect balance between natural light and the decorative is a delicate feat. Lighting canchange the entire mood of a room and influences ambience.

You first must assess the amount of natural light bathing through the windows. Windows should be kept bare when light is sparse to amplify sunshine in the room. Alternatively, you can dress your frames with sheer fabrics such as linen and voile, to filter light in scantily.

The key to decorating with lighting is to remember that light is always in a state of transition. Use a combination of natural and artificial lighting -­‐ the two vital tools required to create a welcoming, warm interior.

Lighting Tricks

Choosing the right lighting can be complex. Aim for a selection of different light fittings to anchor a room and allow the furniture, textures and colours to come to the foreground.

A general mantra is to implement at least three types of lighting in each room; ambient lighting, to set the background scene and mood; statement lighting, to add instant glamour and impact to a room; and task lighting, for reading and writing purposes.

Layering a room with lighting involves dressing different fittings asymmetrically around the edges of the room to create rhythms of contrasting shadows and highlights, and to create impact.

Playing with scale is the trick to any room looking its best and at the flick of a dimmer switch you can suddenly alter a mood, transform a space and enhance an emotion.

Light Fittings

Deciding which type of light fitting is best suited in each room is the ultimate choice when it comes to decorating with lights. Light fittings options are relatively easy to chose once you’ve grasped the basic functions for how each fitting works and distributes light.

Consider the space you are lighting carefully. For example, a room bathed in natural light requires dimmers that can alter the mood instantly and change throughout the day.

However, if you have a dark space but no budget to install new windows, you will need to consider installing down-­‐lighters and a few floor and table lamps to brighten a room.

Get the look…

• Decorative chandeliers make all the difference to a living space, yet you must be sure the size will compliment your interiors. A larger chandelier creates drama and impact. Ensure you include accent lights on either side of the chandelier, or add floor and table lamps to provide extra additional light in a room.

• Downlights cast directional light from the ceiling downward and are either recessed or surface mounted. They are a popular choice in most homes and work as general task lighting to illuminate a work area such as a kitchen or office.

• Spotlights are similar to downlights except they only use one light point and are perfect for highlighting special features around a room such as decorative objects or paintings.

• Pendant lighting only ever works with a combination of other light sources as they cast a dim luster and create harsh shadows. There are heaps of decorative styles to choose from and they provide a stunning decorative element to any room.

• Wall lighting provides gentle, soft light around the perimeter of the room. They are perfect for providing ambient lighting and work well with dimmers.

• Uplighters cast light onto the ceiling. They are fixed into floors and highlight areas of space.

We recommend...

- Lighting / lamps

- Industrial Lighting

Image Sources:

#1 - Contemporist

#2 - Yellow Trace Tumblr

Stir up your emotions with feminine aesthetics and poetic fabrics. New Romantics interiors take to tone‐on‐tone colours, decadent textiles and embellishments that garner greater depth out of the simplest settings. New Romantics embodies a peaceful, practical way of living that embraces the treasured bits and pieces of our lives that we hold dear, and flaunts them at the heart of our homes.

Simplicity and Purity

Your living space is your shelter, refuge and nesting space which personifies you. For a sumptuous space that reigns in romance, think of pure white and off-­‐white shades, neutral tones of taupe’s and grays, and add into the mix clean lined furniture in smart but simple fabrics.

The palette for New Romantics is soft and neutral, with enriching pastels, gold’s, purples, faded deep colours and stain-­‐washed timbers.

Lend the pale seas of white on floors and walls for a neutral backdrop that will create an ease of simplicity.

Fabrics with heart

Mounds of textures are key for a feminine aesthetic.

Imagine romantic florals reclining against pure white linens, ruffles of chiffon, crocheted lace and a nesting of white cottons to enhance a feeling of deep comfort and soul.

These fabrics embody classic beauty which is decadent and poetic at the same time, and importantly these fabrics will never go out of fashion. They inspire romance and effortlessly create a relaxed atmosphere – that inherits both faith and beauty.

Aim for contrast and play with smooth versus coarse, embellished versus matt, and vice versa to create a visually exciting and whimsical space.

Furnish with found objects

Work some glamour alchemy by furnishing your space with the things you love and long to surround yourself with. Look around you and sort through your treasured pieces that resonate within you. It may be a vintage trophy or a ceramic vase that is screaming out to be displayed.

It is the personal treasures and collections we possess that reveal the real character and love of the home the all-important details that provide a sense of harmony and transform a room from ordinary to extraordinary.

Squashy period sofas, generously filled cushions and luxurious velvety throws will create the tapestry of this look.

Let flowers flourish

Flowers are the icing on the cake in the home. Adding wonderful warmth and charm to any room, flowers can transform and lift the atmosphere of a mundane room into a magical, romantic space.

Think of peonies, hydrangeas and clusters of roses to instill into your interiors and experiment with floral arrangements.

Scout interesting vases and containers for display purposes, such as; jugs, teapots, trophies, bottles and jars ‐ that can simultaneously double up as vases as well.

Have fun matching flowers to containers and keep in mind that contrast looks best! Place brightly coloured flowers in plain white vases for a bold impact, or, use a rustic curvy vase for displaying red roses.

The key is to compliment florals boldly into a relaxed setting.

Get the look…

• New Romantics is all about peaceful atmospheres that echo feminine aesthetics such as florals, lace and bits and pieces that are close to our hearts.

• Pay attention to detail when furnishing. Think of floaty fabrics, embroidered and pleated, with swathes of chiffon for a poetic feel.

• Invest in mounds of candles from tea to pillars and container to tapers.

• Decorate with flowers to add warmth and charm. Display in quirky vessels -­‐ found or recycled, and be sure to create contrast with arrangements and colours.

 • A chandelier is an essential element for a romantic aesthetic. Choose carefully and look out for ones with heavy crystal teardrops and sparingly strung crystal bead strings.

We recommend...

- Industrial Leather Arm Chair - L'usine Vintage

- L'usine Vintage 4 Drawer Trunk

Image Sources:
# 1 Desire to Inspire

# 2 Desire to Inspire

If you want your home to be clean but not boring, simple yet textural and if you have a fondness for white, then naturalist style is the décor for you.

Naturalist takes cue from salvaged materials; think warm woods, stone and an abundance of white throughout the home.

Natural is a style that lends itself to an air of calm and sublime comfort. Perfection is not required; instead create a home that celebrates the wholesome and native in all its pure, unique glory.

Enchanted Wood 
 

From its coarse dark cladding to its smooth polished planks, timber in the home celebrates the natural beauty of earth.

Timber cladding instantly creates a rustic feel and is a natural bedfellow to any shade or colour scheme. Think dark walnuts, pale birch or whitewashed pine for an invigorating yet composed look. Mixing shades of timber adds energy to a room and can work wonders on floors, furniture, shelving and cabinetry.

Placing decorative emphasis on timber and texture, you can create the dramatic forest backdrop that is at the crux of any natural home, so go on -­‐ work some grain into your domain!

Work with Neutral

Neutral tones may imply simple but it certainly does not mean boring. Instead, a clever combination of accent tones in autumnal hues such as chalky off-­‐whites, minky, mole-­‐like browns and soft greys in one-­‐colourway make a sophisticated statement.

With a neutral backdrop, you will find that the mix of woods and natural materials will provide flashes of warmth and interesting textures and, inevitably, create a talking point.

Neutral schemes imply restraint rather than drama, calm over daring and feature soothing shades rather than strong colour. A soft, neutral palette provides the tranquil backdrop that natural style requires.

Go Green

If you have a soft spot for greenery, introduce nature into the home in the forms of small potted or hanging plants, or displaying potted flowers on mantelpieces.

Greenery promotes tranquility in the home, so if you’re the kind of person who enjoys looking after plants, go loco and create your own indoor garden. Be sure to mix and display different types of plants for a contrast in shades, shapes and densities.

Texture Me

Finally, texture is a vital element to any natural interior.Textured fabrics provide comfort. Think pure Egyptian cottons, warm wools and linens, lustrous silks and crisp bamboo fabrics to compliment the coarse, timber interiors.By decorating with accents of textures and different fabrics, you can create a gentle layering of materials that result in a welcoming feel.

For example, mix different shades of lush linen cushions such as our Natural Harvest range cushions for an elegant, individual touch that will add softness and interest to natural aesthetics.

Get the look…

• Timber gives a suitably rustic and natural feel.
• A soft, neutral palette of autumnal hues and whites works best for dramatic effect in natural interiors.
• Reclaiming and reusing materials is a necessity in eco-­‐aesthetics, place emphasis on natural materials that purvey strong texture.
• Mix a different variety of woods together to add energy into a space. For example consider placing walnut timber dining chairs such as our Replica Hans Wegner Wishbone chair, beside a pine dining table for an eclectic look that celebrates grain.
• Add some easy elegance with plenty of natural textiles such as silk, linen and cotton to add depth in a neutral space.

We recommend...

- Noguchi Coffee Table - Natural - Replica

- Set of 4 - Replica Arne Jacobsen Series 7 Chair - White

Image source:

#1 - DesiretoInspire

#2 - DesiretoInspire

To celebrate the launch of our new Industrial Collection, we are running a special promotion giving you the chance to win a Coffee Table Cart (valued at $499) simply by showing us your idea for the ultimate Industrial inspired room. 

Here's how it works:

1. Follow @MilanDirect's Pinterest boards.

2. Create a Pinterest board on your Pinterest page that includes 'Industrial' in the title. This allows us to search for all submissions on Pinterest.

3. Pin up to 20 images on the board to create a room that best conveys your Industrial style. 
You must use a minimum of 5 Milan Direct products from the new Industrial Range which can be found on our Industrial Range Pinterest board.

4. Tag each image with #MilanDirectIndustrial.

5. Share your completed board by emailing the link along with your contact details to competitions@milandirect.com.au.
We will share some boards on Facebook.

6. Competition closes Friday October 26th and the winner will be announced on Facebook and notified via email on Tuesday October 29th.

Best of luck!

The MD Team

At the heart of every happy home is a dining area, a space in which friends and family gather, and where entertaining and eating take place. It’s all about creating and planning a layout that suits both your personal style and your lifestyle needs.

Whether you love boho or deco, vintage or retro, French provincial or contemporary; a dining space can be as formal or as casual as you like. Make your space fun and functional by following the basic rules of a good layout, and then add your own personal touches to bring your dining area to life.

Work to function

The best dining areas are those that combine function, personality and good design - you want to create a space that makes family and guests gather and linger in conversation, whilst being practically laid out.

Firstly, think about your priorities.  For starters, do you use it everyday? Do you want to revamp the area? Will your living room be open to the kitchen and dining area? How many people do you need to seat?

Dining room layout is dependent on the space available so it is crucial to plan ahead and work out your personal priorities, then plan your space around them.

Shaping Space

Making a furniture plan is a simple step that pays dividends in bringing function and life to a room.

Look at the many different types of kitchen and dining layouts available. Create a floor plan of your space and play around with different furniture configurations on paper. For example, an L-shaped kitchen bench works wonders in a kitchen area that is large enough for a rectangle dining table. Whereas, a dining island in the kitchen is great for compact space - not only do they double as a food preparation area and eating space, they are a smart, yet cosy way to approach functional design.

The decorating trick for integral dining and living areas is to make sure each space melds harmoniously together, rather then making too much of a statement with each zone.

Talking point pieces

We eat with our eyes as well as our mouths, so invest time in finding the right shape and style table, as well as comfortable dining chairs.

When searching for a dining table, consider size, material and style. A dining table must adhere to your specific household needs. How many people will be regularly sitting at the table? Do you want it to double as a work area during the day? Or would you like the option of elongating the table for entertainment purposes?

Chairs are important too; the more comfortable the better. For an unexpected look, add some luxurious patterned or coloured chair cushions. They echo sophistications whilst upping the comfort factor.

The type of material you choose for your table will be dependent upon its durability and purpose for your home. For family dwellings, natural materials such as wood are perfect hardwearing surfaces and are making a big comeback in dining tables. Rounded, glass top dining tables are great for compact spaces. Square tables serve to open up a space and can be used for multiple functions, such as a working or dining.

Light Matters

Decorative lighting can be a significant point of interest in a dining room. Lighting changes the entire mood of the room. Look at a range of fittings from contemporary to vintage lighting, chandeliers to simple bulbs.

Be sure to incorporate lighting into a decorating scheme from the beginning.

Get the look…

• Consider the size, purpose and function of a dining table before buying so that it satisfies the specific needs of your household.
• Measure the space of the room available. If you have a large area, consider a long rectangular table that can entertain big gatherings. Alternatively, rounded tables work best in compact spaces.
• The purpose and function of a table will be dependent on material durability. Natural materials such as wood or stone are great hardwearing surfaces for longevity.
• Decorative lighting makes all the difference to a dining space. Add drama with statement piece chandeliers, dimmers, or pendant lights to add a welcoming feel to a room.
• Open plan living and dining capitalises on a multi-function purpose space. Consider installing room dividers to block off zones.

We recommend…

- Replica Hans Wegner Wishbone Chair

- Noguchi Cyclone Dining Table Replica

Image Sources:

#1 - New + Vintage

#2 - Elle Interiors

Splashing pattern through the home is a delightful way to inject personality, warmth and a little joyfulness and life into a space.

It is about finding pieces that spark your imagination in countless directions; it may be vintage fabrics and prints, a collection of antique floral vases, or statement furniture pieces such as a mid-century lounger that is covered in a striking pattern.

Decorating with pattern isn’t always about creating one feature point. Deciding to feature pattern can provide a great reason to go bold, whether it is on the walls, floors, furniture or accessories. There are endless variations of how to successfully decorate using pattern.

Let pattern flourish in your space

Pattern injects energy into a space, so don’t be afraid to mix up prints and contrast colours.

Use vibrant textures and graphics in a myriad of stylised designs to heighten the mood.

You can bring your living space to life by mixing intriguing art, colourful textiles and beautifully patterned upholstery.

Think laterally and look to your treasured items for inspiration. Can you curate a feature wall with a collection of floral China plates? Can you decorate a mantelpiece with a combination of striking patterned vases? Or could you layer up a sofa with intricate and embellished throws and cushions to add some visual impact - with a touch of warmth and sophistication?

Using your space well requires thinking carefully about surfaces such as floors and walls and focal points, as it is the decorative details that create wow factor.

When using a multitude of bold patterns throughout your home, try to minimise clutter as pattern works best in chic, organised rooms - otherwise you may be left with a sensory overload!

Wonder Wall

Patterned wallpaper reflects the mood of the moment, and never has there been so much variety to pick and choose from than today.

Walls can make or break a space, so picking the right covering can be quite a hard task. Whether you want a breezy, whimsical pattern, a textured grass-cloth covering, a geometric design, or a tribal charm pattern – make wallpaper as bold or subtle as you like.

Dress with pleasure

The perfect way to decorate a room is by using textiles and upholstery to soften a space – be it in the bedroom or living room!

Introducing floral patterns, stripes, checkered patterns, toile de jouy, or geometrics is a great way to inject life and colour into a space. Strike a cohesive note using similar fabrics, colours or designs so there is gentle coordination between elements.

Additionally, don’t just look to fabrics for pattern - think creatively.

Can you display pattern in the bedroom with luxurious damask curtains? Or perhaps with display patterned wallpaper at the back of bookshelves? Alternatively, can you cover an ottoman or bed-head in a striking design?

Textiles bring individuality to a space. Create a sense of intricacy and texture captures the heart of a decorating story.

Make a splurge and celebrate pattern in all its glory!

Get the look…

• If you have lots of pattern, try to keep your palette simple – as too many patterns are difficult to work with. Instead, stick with patterns that are cohesive in colour and type of fabric.
• Let the wallpaper do the talking and cover the walls of an entire room for a bold statement, or for a subtle approach, cover one wall to make a feature.
• For a feminine statement in the bedroom, use delicate floral fabrics, or decorate a bed-head in a pretty design.
• Stripes and florals work well together, especially when similar colours are repeated in one to the other.
• Classic Toile de Jouy designs look striking and rural in the bedroom. Look at classic wallpaper designs or soft curtains to showcase these prints successfully. 

We recommend…

- Mademoiselle Chair Replica

- Verner Panton Inspired Stripe Rug - Rectangle

Image Sources:

#1 - Homelife

#2 - Desire to Inspire

Spending time with friends, socialising and sharing stories in beautiful surroundings are some of life’s simple pleasures. Whilst we are still enjoying the warmer weather, what better way to make the most of it than hosting a special dinner outdoors?

Take inspiration from inside your home

Create an extension of your living space by reflecting the colours and materials you already use, as this will carry a cohesive feeling from the inside of your home to the outdoors.

 
There are an incredible variety of themes and moods to choose from - femininity, secret garden ambience, natural and rustic or even clashing high voltage colours with vintage accessories.

Whatever look you choose it must create an enticing environment that will feast guests eyes before they feed their mouths. Be savvy with what you have and be innovative with how you mix and match items to create a sophisticated story.

 
For example, a vintage assortment of china plates with an embroidered linen tablecloth rests beautifully against an outdoors timber dining table for an inviting yet sublimely comfortable setting.
The key to achieving the perfect garden party setting is in the detail.

Consider fabrics when setting the mood

Mix textures and prints, for example by layering crochet placemats against sheer fabrics and comfy knitted cushions. Soft linens and cottons create a poetic and romantic feel whilst contributing to a relaxed and tranquil atmosphere. Using vibrant colours and interesting textures adds depth and life.

Playing with colours is essential to creating a captivating look

Choose colours that you are drawn to, a palette that will make you smile and make your heart swell.

 
The perfect way to create a succinct look is by coordinating colours; select a base colour, a few accent colours and stick within their tones.

 
What colour combinations do you respond to? Perhaps a mix of stonewashed natural tones and timeworn colours? Or alternatively a complementary colour scheme such as verdant greens and crimson reds with blushing pinks?

 
Don’t be afraid to experiment!

Table wear, accessories and flowers are the icing on the cake

Revel in mixing up materials, items and decorations.

 
Mixing and matching crockery also adds richness. By using a variety of clashing patterned plates, you are inviting your guest to engage in the atmosphere.

 
Your choice of flowers influences the tone of the occasion. Flourishing native flowers, tropical blooms and tea candles embellish a chic dining table setting. Hydrangeas, magnolias and roses create a seductive and feminine mood. Native flora and wildflowers are ideal for a country vibe, or evergreen foliage makes an area feel refreshingly lush. Or perhaps you can you gather a collection of flowers from your very own garden! Make a floral splash and collect a variety of unusual vases or jars for display.

 
A beautifully set table with thoughtful detail and attention transforms a meal into a whimsical and elegant occasion.

Get the look…

• Get creative, use what you have and create an atmosphere that reflects your own personal style.
• Collect fabrics that evoke romance and drift in the steamy summer afternoons.
• Mix and match crockery to achieve an eclectic look, it adds personality and engages with guests.
• Blossoming flowers, candles, patterned crockery and endless layers of fabrics and materials are the quintessential elements for dressing a chic dining table.
• Chairs and outdoor tables make great statement pieces; mixing timber settings such as the • Palma Majorca setting with crispy white linens is understated yet very sophisticated.
• The key to a perfect garden party is all in the detail. 

We recommend…
- Palma Majorca Outdoor Timber 7pc set

- Sunset 5pc Outdoor Bar Set - Wicker Furniture - Black

Image Sources:

#1 - Loliver.com

#2 - Desire to Inspire.

Australia is well known for wide expanses of space. A perfect Australian summers evening should be spent in the open space of a backyard, soaking it all in whilst sitting on stylish and comfortable furniture.

You don’t need the expanse of palace grounds, just a great imagination

Embracing nature is one way to create a soothing retreat whilst escaping from the world in your very own enchanted garden of lush green foliage.

If you are starting from scratch, approach it as you would a room that needs redecorating. Outside furnishings and materials must be tailored to the weather. For example, colder conditions require soft furnishings and layers to keep warmth in, and for damp weather, wooden furniture must be treated.

Think about surfaces and materials you gravitate towards. What materials and furniture do you have indoors, that can seamlessly seep outside and create unity between the two spaces? What feel or mood do you want to generate? Have you been on any recent trips that can spark your interest? Taking climate into consideration is also important when creating a scheme.

Work with what you have and build it up with plants, lighting, furniture and accessories.

The crucial elements for a relaxed space are soft furnishings and functional outdoor furniture

Chairs take precedence here - the more comfortable the better. Extendable or folding chairs that allow you to cater for extra guests are a must; as you never know when unexpected guests will arrive.

Low-level lounges are a great addition to any contemporary garden. They create an informal vibe and add to the comfort factor.

 
If you’re on a limited budget choose a patio set that is already coordinated, and furnish generously with soft cushions in earth tone colours to evoke a sense of richness and poise.

Choose plants that complement your climate

Add plants and flower pots and hang outdoor wall art to create visual impact.
Be savvy and saturate your walls with climbing plants to connect the interior and exterior of your home.

To create a relaxed ambience, think about greenery and complimenting existing foliage

 
Soft neutral colours of crispy whites, pastels and earth tones, will create an atmosphere of harmony and laid-back chic against the backdrop of greenery and flourishing blooms.

For a sophisticated look, stir the senses with a variety of clashing shades and tones

A cohesive spectrum of colours will add some contrast and life into an outdoor setting.

 
Throw comfy cushions in vivid turquoise fabrics, burnt oranges and vibrant fuchsia embroidered throws. Layering furniture with soft textiles and embellished materials is a great way to warm up an area and decorate a space.

More than any other place, the outdoors gives you a chance to slow down and unwind in the company of friends or even on your own; a sanctuary to revive the senses and just be.

Get the look…

• Create unity between the indoor and outdoor by staying consistent with style.
• Take inspiration from the garden and look to flowers for colour inspiration. Alternatively, make a feature of your garden with plants, sculptures, furniture and soft furnishings along a theme.
• Think about your climate in relation to what furniture is best suited.
• Comfortable and functional chairs are vital. Choose expandable or folding chairs that allow you to cater for different needs. Our Encore wicker day bed is a great lounger on which to while away a sultry summers afternoon or separate and enjoy an appetizing banquet with friends.
• Decorate with comfort and rejuvenation in mind.

We recommend…

• Sorrento Patio 4PC Set- Outdoor Rattan Wicker
• Encore Outdoor Wicker Day Bed

 Image Sources:

#1 - Decor8

#2 - Decor8

Have you ever considered using a bookshelf in a non-traditional way? Thinking outside the box is key. Everyday objects such as china vases, ceramic plates and treasured items are pieces that deserve special attention.

 
More often than not, we look to the bones of the home and furniture to provide impact, yet forget the essential elements that elevate a room – the details, the stories behind the assortment of items you have collected, and how you curate them around your home.

Keep it clean

 
Walls define a space so take time choosing the backdrop for your precious treasures.
Can you add impact to a room by bathing walls head to toe with shelving? How about integrating bookshelves to meld into a room?

 
To create a functional and harmonious atmosphere, make sure you keep the confines simple and neutral.

 
For example, an overall white scheme increases the sense of space, enabling light to bounce off pale and glossy surfaces. If your room is bland and box-like, embellish it with an interesting focal point such as a mantelpiece or shelving units full of treasured items. 

 

Curate your treasures

 
The finishing touches make all the difference.

The difficult process is how to build up a collection of items you love whilst displaying them in a balanced and cohesive harmony. Look around you and gather items that ignite feelings and important memories.

It may be a collection of old family portraits, an array of vintage books with distinctive dust jackets or miniature vases with dried-up flower stems.

A pleasing arrangement of objects is all about injecting a sense of humour and life into your display.

Make sure there is consistency in your presentation - balance here is essential. Harness elements that unify such as colour, shape and materials.
 

Books do make a space

 
For an avid book collector who pines to have their very own bibliothèque, amuse yourself and play with book configurations.

When displaying books on shelves, place them in a variety of contrasting alignments. Vertical, horizontal or crisscross a few sections of books on-top of each other, leave gaps and place a small artefact or object in between them.

A bookshelf will provide countless opportunities for showing off your wondrous curiosities and interests.

With a wide range of options to choose from such as purpose-made modules to basic open shelving, you can create the perfect framework to house your belongings.

The art of arrangement

 
Natural objects such as seashells, flowers, rocks and stones are awe-inspiring examples for enhancing collections.

When grouping together pieces, the general rule is to always group items in clusters of three rather than pairs.  A third piece adds narrative to two seemingly disparate pieces.

Consider adding wallpaper to the back of shelves to add a theme or to personalise a particular shelf.

Enjoy the moments where you step back and observe how the disparate converse with each other.

Your home is a place to be filled with inspiring pieces that invigorate you.
 

Get the look…
• Let your creative side loose and be innovative with novel display configurations to uplift a room. 
• Attention to detail is key. 
• Build a collection of pieces that inspire you and tell stories around your treasured memories.
• Curate your treasures in clusters of three. Once you discover a sense of unity between the pieces, take a step back and watch them mingle amongst each other. 
• An inexpensive bookshelf such as our Florida shelving unit is a perfect framework for displaying endless amounts of design opportunities.
• Play around and add wallpaper to the back of shelves to personalise a theme or bookshelf.
• To achieve a clean-lined look that is easy to digest, arrange items that have unifying elements such as colour, texture, shape or materials. 

We recommend…
- Q Box 4X4 Shelving Unit - Natural
- Florida Shelving Unit - 2 Tier

Image Sources:

#1 - Weekday Carnival ‘Susanna and Kristina’

#2 - Murray Mitchell ‘Large Bookshelf with Ornate Ceiling’

Rugs are a vital ingredient for providing decoration, colour and comfort. They bring a sense of luxury to a room and make a good alternate to carpet, especially in popular areas such as the living and dining room. Think contrast; choose a shape that will balance the layout of a space.

 

Pick and choose

 
Selecting a rug can be a challenging feat. You must take into account colour, texture, material, shape and size, whilst opting for a piece that keeps with the overall look of the room and is appealing yet practical.

 
When selecting a rug first decide whether you want a piece that will act as a ‘feature’ or as ‘backdrop’. Pattern and texture are key aspects to consider here.

 
If you want a statement piece, look to rugs with striking patterns and colour combinations. Beautifully patterned rugs always lift a space and become the focal point of the room.

 
Alternatively, if you are settling for the rug as a backdrop, look to texture and tactile rugs. A textured piece will enhance and complement an atmosphere whilst welcoming the furniture.
Go with your instinct, be meticulous with your choosing and roam through a diverse range of styles and designs until you find the one that is just right.
 

Delve into colour

 
Colour is just as important as other aspects to consider when selecting a rug. You must decide what shade suits your interiors, what tones harmonise and heighten a space, and what colours are most practical for your lifestyle.

 
For example, light tones are not ideal for a family dwelling. Instead, opt for patterned or dark colours that will accommodate a busy lifestyle and growing family.

Hues of blues, greys and silvers are ideal for any room. They sit quietly amid any interior setting and are neutral colours.

 
As a general rule of thumb, white and neutral tones will always enhance space, whilst dark tones will add intimacy and drama.

Shape it up

 
Use a rug to define an area and choose a shape that will complement your space.
The essential element regarding space is to go for contrast.

If you have a square room and an L-shaped seating arrangement, circular rugs will be crucial here. You need to break up structure and allow for harmony and balance to co-exist.

Narrow spaces yearn for elongation, so use runners in hallways to provide an illusion of depth, or alternately, contrast with an oval-shaped runner. 

Flaunt quality

 
Rugs are not only the finishing touches to spaces; they also add warmth and welcome.

Look for handcrafted rugs made of the highest quality wools or silks, to ensure their longevity and allure. Shags and thick woollen woven rugs elevate a vibe of cosiness and extravagance, whereas plush silky rugs rest beautifully against wooden floorboards.

Be thoughtful about placement and take into account the level of foot traffic. Hallways will be trampled over constantly, and most likely with dirty footwear, so go for hardwearing materials such as sisal and wool. Areas such as living rooms and bedrooms can take more delicate fibres such as jute and polyester.

When decorating with rugs think with practicality in mind and choose materials that will fulfil their purpose.

Get the look…

• Always use a liner underneath your rug to keep it from slipping and sliding. Choose one that is practical depending on the rug type and flooring.
• If you have two rugs in the one room, make sure that they are not the same shape, as this will cut a rooms size in half. Instead opt for alternate and contrasting shapes.
• Choose patterned or dark tone rugs in areas of heavy use. They will disguise stains and markings better than neutral coloured rugs.
• Always leave 0.6-0.9m of space between rugs and walls. It will enhance spaciousness and extend length. 
• Use tapestries to add a statement to your walls. 

We recommend...

- Shag Rug White - Classic Version 160x230cm

- Verner Panton VP III Rug - Reproduction - Rectangle

Image Sources:

#1 - Design Attractor

#2 - Hege Greenall-Scholtz Blog ‘Eclectic Mix’