Category: Design & decor

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Design & decor

How to paint doors

Many homeowners in Australia want to know how to paint doors properly. If you want to paint your old door and give it a long-lasting finish, there are several simple steps you have to take. It takes the right tools and supplies, proper door preparation and good painting techniques to get quality results. Selecting the right type and colour paint also impacts the way doors look after being repainted. The following tips for painting doors or repainting doors can create doors that make a lasting impression on people entering any room or home.

Materials and tools

  • Ladder or stepstool: Use the ladder or stepstool to reach the top hinge holding the door in place. 
  • Drill/screwdriver: Use the drill or screwdriver to remove the screws holding the door in place, put lag screws into the top and bottom of the door and remove the hinges, doorknobs and other door hardware.
  • Sawhorse: Lay the door flat with the lag screws on each end on the sawhorse.
  • Tarps or sheets of plastic: Use the tarps or sheets of plastic to cover the floor under the area where you will be cleaning, sanding and painting the door.
  • Grease cutter cleanser and some rags: Apply liquid or spray cleanser to the door to remove oil, grease, dirt and stains using the rags. 
  • Sander/sandpaper/chemical stripper: Remove paint buildup on a wooden door with a sharp carbide or stainless steel scraper and smoothen with the sander. Using the best sander for doors is important. On metal doors use sandpaper. Use chemical stripper on doors made of fibreglass to remove flaking paint.
  • Filler: Fill door dents, cracks and holes with spackling compound, two-part filler or epoxy wood filler.
  • Door primer paint: Paint the entire door with door primer paint that’s grey or white primer whether you are painting internal doors or external doors.
  • Paint trays: Pour a little paint at a time into the paint trays. 
  • Paint, high-density foam mini rollers and paintbrushes: Using a paintbrush, edge in around panels and windows. Use mini rollers to paint the entire door. 
  • Painter’s tape: Cover weather stripping with painter’s tape so the door won’t stick when you re-hang an exterior door. 
A fresh coat of paint can make a huge difference to your home’s look / Source: Ozland Painting Group

What type of paint to use on doors

Oil-based paints are ideal to use when painting interior doors. Water-based paints are better for exterior doors and damp areas.

How to prep interior doors for painting

The following are some simple steps for preparing interior doors for painting.

  1. Clear the area and lay down a drop sheet: Remove furnishings from the area where the door will be cleaned and painted and cover it with protective tarps, plastic strips or drop sheets. 
  2. Remove door: Take the door off its hinges and remove the doorknobs, handles, locks, kick plates and other hardware.
  3. Wash the door: Apply spray or liquid cleanser to the door and use rags to clean and wash off the door.
  4. Sand the surface: An electric sander or sandpaper can be used to remove loose paint and smoothen out imperfections in the door’s surface.

How to fill cracks before painting

The first step in filling cracks is to clean the wall thoroughly to remove any debris. Then, use a putty knife to apply a filler such as spackle or joint compound over the crack, making sure to press the filler deep into the crack to ensure maximum coverage. Once the filler is dry, use sandpaper to smooth it down to a flat surface, being careful not to sand too much and cause further damage. Finally, wipe the wall with a damp cloth to remove any excess dust before priming and painting. By properly filling cracks, you can achieve a smooth and flawless finish for your next painting project.

Popular filler brands you can consider are Buidler’s Bog, Elmers, and Minwax.

How to paint a door

Here some simple steps and helpful tips for painting doors. 

  1. Apply a primer if necessary: When painting bare wood or putting a light colour over a much darker one, you should apply a primer. When using self-priming paint or painting over surfaces painted in a similar colour, primer isn’t required. 
  2. Apply an undercoat: When applying an undercoat, use a paintbrush to do the edges of the door. Then use a paint roller for doors in a ‘W’ pattern to cover the door with undercoat evenly. 
  3. Paint edges: Use a paintbrush to paint the door’s edges to seal it and keep moisture out. Apply the same number of coats as on the main surface.
  4. Paint the main surface: When painting the door’s main surface, use a paint roller for doors. Apply the paint using a ‘W’ pattern technique for a neater, more even coverage. Painting doors with a roller is the most efficient way to get the job done.
  5. Leave to dry and apply a second coat if necessary: Leave the painted door to dry for a few hours. If you see imperfections or incomplete or uneven coverage, apply another coat of paint.
  6. Reattach door when completely dry: When repainting doors, to prevent them from sticking, let them dry completely before reattaching them. That takes 6 to 24 hours depending on the paint, temperature and moisture in the air.

Contact local painters

How to paint door frames

When painting door frames, first put down a plastic drop cloth and use 7.6-10.2 cm painter’s tape to line the wall area around the door frame. Clean the frame with grease-cutting cleanser, sand it lightly, fill in any small chips and gouges using wood putty. When painting door frames, the right door paint is important. Use semi-gloss, latex interior paint or exterior trim paint, if the frame opens outside.

Use angled tip handheld brushes for efficiency, precision and to get into tight spaces. Hold the metal band below the bristles for better control over paint placement. Start painting from the frame’s upper inside corner using long, sweeping strokes. When you get to the interior surface’s bottom, repeat the process on the opposite side. Work your way outside the frame and paint the jambs on both sides. To avoid leaving seams, overlap your strokes. Let it dry for 2-6 hours and apply a second coat. 

How to paint a door without removing it

The best way to paint a door without removing it is first to wedge the door and cover the hinges, doorknob and lock with painter’s tape. Clean the door to remove grease, especially near the doorknobs and handles. Use a paintbrush on the top, edge and bottom of the door. Use a foam roller when painting doors with a roller. When you are done painting, carefully remove the painter’s tape. 

Before and after a new paint job / Source: BODEK Painting & Plastering

How to hire a painter

Hiring the right painter is essential. There are three main factors to look out for to ensure you hire the right professional for your job. 

Licencing and qualifications 

Make sure the painter you hire has the proper licencing and qualifications.

Years of experience

It would help if you chose a painter with years of experience painting and who knows lots about door paint and the best way to paint a door. 

Positive reviews and references

Do some research before you hire a painter to do door painting. Choose one that consistently gets good reviews and can provide a list of references for door painting they have done. 

Find out how much a painter will cost to hire in our guide.

Categories
Design & decor

How to make your own pallet bed

Buying a new bed frame can cost hundreds of dollars, even if you choose a cheaper material. As long as you can find wood pallets and have some free time, you can use the right tools to build a new frame out of that recycled wood.

What is a pallet bed?

Whether you want to do your part and help the environment through recycling or save some money, consider making a bed from old pallets. This type of bed uses the pallets to create both the base and headboard. While basic designs are suitable for most DIY enthusiasts, you’ll find some complex and intricate designs that you can try too.

Sourcing out a pallet

Where can you find pallets?

Home improvement stores now sell pallets that you can take apart and put back together again. However, finding free pallets can help you save money on your project. The best place to find free pallets is through small business parks in your area. Distribution companies often give away pallets too. Don’t forget to use the internet to find companies giving away pallets.

How many pallets do you need?

The number of pallets that you need to make a wood pallet bed depends on the size that you need. For a queen size pallet bed, you need at least four. Complex and intricate designs, as well as those with a headboard, will need more pallets. You only need two wood pallets to make a twin bed.

A bedroom with a desk and a pallet bed
You need multiple pallets to create a double bed / Source: Shutterstock

How to choose safe pallets

Companies often use pallets treated with chemical solvents that protect the wood from water damage. To choose safe pallets, look for any letters stamped on the surface. The initials MB stand for methyl bromide and indicate that the pallets aren’t safe for home use. You can also buy pallets from home improvement stores that are brand new.

Turning a pallet into a bed frame

Learning how to make a pallet bed is easy when you know what steps to follow. Check out the steps below and make sure you understand what to do before you start

Sand and wipe down

To make a DIY pallet bed, you need to sand the pallets first. Even if you choose new pallets, sanding the wood is important because it gives the wood a smooth surface and reduces your risk of getting splinters. An electric sander is the best tool for the job because it fits in one hand and works quickly. Make sure that you wear protective gear when sanding, including a mask and goggles. After you finish sanding, wipe off the pallets to remove any excess wood dust.

Paint

You do not need to paint a pallet bed base, especially if you have longer blankets or plan to use a bed skirt. Painting lets you add a personal touch though and make the bed yours. If you decide to paint, choose between spray paint or a brush application. Brushes allow you to add just enough colour that you can still see the natural wood grain through the topcoat. Using spray paint ensures that you get the even coverage that you want and will completely hide the wood grain.

Contact local interior design experts

Secure the pallets together

For a basic DIY wood base, you only need four pallets. Place the pallets on the ground in a two by two layout. Though you do not need to secure the pallets for this type of bed, you may want to use screws to keep the pallets from shifting as you get in and out of bed. If you use wood screws, make sure that the screws are long enough to go through the wood in two pallets.

Securing the pallets is necessary if you want a bed with some height. As pallets are relatively short, you can stack two or more and get as high off the ground as you wish. Use a power tool to sink the screws through the top of one pallet into the pallet below. 

When you get to the top level, put down some material that keeps your mattress from snagging on the wood. A thick piece of cardboard or some felt will work. Those who like sleeping on a firmer mattress can use a piece of plywood cut to the same size as the bed.

Create a pallet headboard

Though you don’t need a headboard for your bed, making one to go along with your wood pallet bed frame is as simple as securing a pallet to the wall. You’ll want to sand and paint the pallet to make it match the bed. Have someone hold the pallet flush against the wall as you sink wood screws through the surface and into the wall, which keeps the pallet bed headboard from falling. You can easily use the slats in the headboard as extra storage for everything from books and lights to clothing and decorations.

If you want to create a different look, try adding some fabric. Simply wrapping the wood in fabric before you hang it creates a fun and functional headboard. You can also secure slats of wood from a second pallet to the front of the headboard to create extra shelves. With another pallet, you can even make a matching footboard to go with your pallet bed base.

Optional decorations

Once you have a pallet bed frame, consider adding some optional decorations to make the bed look different from those that others created. You can go with something basic such as lights. Fairy lights add a nice touch of atmosphere and are small enough that you can weave them through the slats in the bed. If you don’t have a nearby outlet and don’t want to use an extension cord, look for fairy lights that run on a battery. Larger lights create a fantastic look too when suspended on the wall and above the bed. Twinkle lights placed inside the pallet below your bed adds a small amount of light also.

A bed with a pallet bedhead and lights
Lights can add a personal touch to the bedhead / Source: Shutterstock

Decorations can include extra wood that you source from other pallets. Consider cutting down some of the slats and turning them into tiny bedside tables that attach to the side of the headboard. You’ll have more than enough space for a glass of water and your cell phone. Some create beds that include a built-in section on the base for storing their shoes or slippers. You may add cutouts to the wood that lets you run cables through the bed too. Those cutouts are perfect for charging your phone or powering a laptop.

How to make a pallet bed with storage

Making a pallet bed with storage gives you more room for your belongings. It’s easy to make a bed that fits in a small room and has more storage space.

Leave extra room

Leaving extra room around the edges of the bed is the best way to make a frame with storage. Those spaces give you room for a potted plant or a few books. You also have enough space for a light and anything else you would display on a bedside table.

There are endless ideas for projects that you can do with a few wood pallets. Once you find pallets, you can make a DIY bed base and dozens of other items for your home.

Categories
Design & decor

Choose the perfect coffee table

A coffee table isn’t just a place to keep newspapers and remote controls. Instead, it forms the very heart of your living room. It defines the ambience of the room and lends a definitive character to it. An ideal coffee table must strike a balance between functionality and aesthetics. At the same time, it must complement the general decor of the living room and blend in with other elements. Coffee tables are available in different shapes, sizes, designs and materials. The key is to find a table that adds to the beauty of your living room.

How and when did coffee tables become popular?

Coffee tables originally emerged in the mid-19th century. They become popular commodities in middle-class households by the 20th century due to the growth of industrialization and mass production. As their popularity grew, new materials like chrome, acrylic and stainless steel were used. During the emergence of the Art Nouveau movement, coffee tables were usually clean and simple. This design gradually gave way to more geometric cuts during the Art Deco phase. Now, coffee tables are produced from inexpensive raw material, like pine wood. In fact, one can easily find replicas of classic vintage coffee table designs at regular furniture shops.

How to choose the perfect coffee table

While looking for a coffee table, what features must you look for? Ideally, your choice must be guided by two central concerns – the general decor of your living room and the current trends in coffee table designs. Remember the following pointers.

Coffee tables are a great addition to any living area / Source: DK Lifestyles

Consider use first

Before you commit to any specific type of coffee table, think about the ways in which you will use what you have. If you will be using it to hold a remote control or drink, you need something different than if you are adding this piece as a way to add style to your space. You may want to use it for storage, too, such as for storing magazines or batteries. In some cases, this little table can even work as secondary seating for the room. If you are looking for a coffee table for entertainment benefits like this, you need something that has features to make it comfortable.

Sizing matters

Before you purchase a coffee table, it is important to have an idea of the amount of room you will have in the space. Determine the size of the room overall. This will help you determine what type of material is best for your space. If the room is very large, then having a big, solid coffee table will work well. On the other hand, if the room is smaller or filled with a lot of belongings, choosing something that is streamlined and thinner can be a better option. You may want to consider glass, too, since this will create the illusion of more space.

Fitting well into your space

Keep in mind that when you choose a new coffee table for a room, it needs to fit well into that space. Consider the height of it. You will want something that will work well compared to the height of your furniture in the space. You will also want to consider the actual material. If you are using solid wood or glass, be sure it works well in the space overall. You may want it to look more interesting. If that is the case, using items like an old trunk can be a stylish statement for the room, but it will add a level of decor interest as well. It is a good idea to look for items that work well together or an item that will stand out and make a statement.

Contact local interior designers

Focus on the material 

Once you have zeroed in on a perfect size, focus on the material and design. Coffee tables can be made using wood, chrome, plastic, glass, bamboo metal, and wood veneers. If you are looking for something stable and affordable, wood veneer would be an ideal choice. The surface comes with wooden polish, but the material is not pure wood. These tables, often known as flatpack furniture, have become increasingly common in regular households. Alternatively, if you are willing to spend a few extra dollars, you could choose high-quality tables made of pure timber. Such a table is perfect for a living room with a country-style, provincial feel. A handcrafted wooden table looks particularly grand and could even become a family heirloom. 

Glass coffee tables

Glass coffee tables are not entirely made of glass as you might gather from the name. Rather, they have a glass top that sits on a metal or wooden frame. The glass is safe to use as a table because it has been toughened, which means there is much less chance that it will break. In the event that it does break, it will chip into large chunks rather than shattering or splintering into dangerous shards. Glass coffee tables are popular because they can add an uncluttered and clean look wherever they are used. They’re especially great in small areas because they don’t appear to take up a large amount of space.

Glass coffee tables have also become a popular choice because they come in a wide variety of styles. They can be very simple and minimalistic or much more ornate and detailed, and everything in between. Some of the more complex ones can even have stained glass inlays. The glass itself can also come in many different colours and finishes so consider all of your options before choosing the right one for your home!

Wooden coffee tables are a popular choice / Source: Visualising Interiors

Wooden coffee tables

Wooden coffee tables are also a very popular form of table. These are made from different kinds of timber, such as pine, cedar, oak, teak, mahogany and many more. While they can be made from any species of timber you prefer, rarer types will naturally be more expensive. Many homeowners choose wooden coffee tables because they add a warm and natural feel to a home and many people enjoy the texture of wood. They can be left natural, stained to bring out the grain and timber, or painted in any colour and finish you like!

Wooden coffee tables are available in so many different designs, sizes and styles that you’ll want to take some time exploring all your options before you settle on the right one. Opt for simple, classic coffee tables with symmetry and clean lines or else choose something exotic and ornate with a lot of detail to complement a room. Don’t forget that you can also add shelves and drawers underneath to increase the storage in your living room as well.

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Design & decor

Why you should choose a custom made rug

Even in homes that are fully carpeted, custom made rugs can add an extra sense of luxury and warmth. Of course, most buy rugs to cover up cold floors and protect hardwood, but rugs have many other uses as well. They also provide a more comfortable area to sit on the floor, they absorb sound so that rooms feel less empty, and they’re just simply beautiful to look at. While buying a rug off-the-rack is certainly an option, custom made rugs tend to be of higher quality, making them more affordable in the long run.

Types of custom made rugs

As the name suggests, custom made rugs can come in a wide variety of materials and styles. Common types of materials used in rugs include sisal, wool, acrylic, jute, silk, and viscose, just to name a few. You should choose your material based on the decor already in your home, as well as which room you plan to place your custom made rug in.

Custom made rugs can either be machine-made or handmade, depending upon your preference. Either way, there’s a huge selection of options when it comes to the design. Additionally, buying a custom made rug gives you the option to have it made in whatever shape or size that you desire. Rather than searching high and low for a rug that’s just the right size for your home, custom made rugs are always exactly what you need them to be.

A stylish, carpeted bedroom with a textured rug
Rugs are a great addition on top of carpet / Source: Ama Studio

Benefits of custom made rugs

While custom made rugs might seem like a big investment, the benefits far outweigh the cost. For example, instead of spending a great deal of time searching for a rug that fits your hallway perfectly, you can have a custom rug made exactly to your specifications. On top of that, the flexibility and freedom to choose the colour and design also allow you to turn your custom made rugs into a focal point for any room. No matter what you choose, you’ll also rest assured in the knowledge that your rug is completely unique.

How to choose a custom made rug

How will the rug be used? Above all else, the function is the most important consideration. If the furniture will sit on it, then you probably don’t want an ornate design that will just end up covered by a table or couch. How large is the room? Simple rug design is better for larger rooms since elaborate designs tend to make a space feel busy and cramped.

If you’re not sure exactly what kind of custom made rugs would be right for your home, but you know that you’d like to invest in one, many rug manufacturers have consulting services. Consultants will make a home visit, bringing sample rugs to serve as placeholders so you can get a better idea of what you want. They’ll also offer their opinion on what kind of rug might be best suited to the room, and they can give you valuable advice on materials and budget.

Measure the space you have

Before you decide on a rug, you need to make sure you measure the area you plan to fill with the new item. If you plan to put the rug underneath a coffee table, make sure it is at least as long and as wide as the piece of furniture in question. Even if you just plan to put the rug in the middle of a room, you need to avoid choosing one that is too big or small, which means you should consider the size of the floor. Then think about how much area you want the rug to take up.

Decide on colours

Take into consideration the colours, patterns and styles of your room, and decide whether the rug is to be the focal point of the room or not. A feature rug is one that can be used as a throw rug and a focus piece. Alternatively, you can try picking out the rug for the floor before you select stuff like paint, wallpaper and furniture. Then you can let the rug colours guide your purchases for the rest of the room.

Contact local interior designers

Considerations for kitchen rugs

Depending on the size of your kitchen and the type of flooring you currently have, adding a simple kitchen rug can create a new dramatic feel for your kitchen. 

Anti-slip rugs

These are possibly the best type of rugs you can purchase for your kitchen. Since the kitchen floor often gets wet or slippery from cooking, washing dishes or cleaning, having no grip on the bottom of your kitchen rug can cause it to move around, which can be quite dangerous. An anti-slip rug has a special type of rubber underneath that keeps it in place. This keeps the rug from moving all around the kitchen, and more importantly, it keeps you from sliding.

A kitchen with a small patterned rug on the floor
There are many choices for carpets in kitchens / Source: TexAus Design

Anti-fatigue rugs

Anti-fatigue mats are used to support your weight and to reduce some of the strain that’s caused from standing in place for a number of minutes or hours. These mats are made from special materials, but the most popular type of anti-fatigue rug is the memory foam mat. Although these mats come in beautiful finishes, they are relatively stain-resistant and easy to clean.

The braided variety

Braided kitchen rugs are made from synthetic blends or from material like wool and cotton. These mats are often plain; however, some are stained or have painted designs on them.

Plush rugs

Plush kitchen rugs are similar to the ones that people place in their bathrooms. They have a deeper pile so that your feet are more comfortable when standing on them. They take the impact of the hard flooring, so your feet don’t hurt after standing for prolonged periods of time.

Washable choices

Most kitchen rugs are washable, with the exception of braided rugs. Some can be cleaned by simply running them under the shower while others can be tossed into the washing machine with the rest of your clothing.

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Design & decor

How to decorate your walls with poster printing

If you’re trying to impress your guests when they come over to your place, make sure to decorate your interiors accordingly. Working on the wall colours is not the end of the story, as you have to focus on other ways to make that colour pop up. Wall colour will only speak when there are posters on them. Posters can emphasize more on the wall background and will portray a picture of your style or personality. So, next time you want to improve the condition of your interior design, then focus on the right posters you have to choose for the same.

Poster design trends

There are a myriad of poster designs that pop up with an internet search, including many intricate and detailed designs. Often simplistic design is a better choice, even when your heart goes for a complex one. Everything depends on the background wall, its colour, and more. To top it all, if the walls are textured, then the poster designs will vary quite a lot. The choice of poster printing depends a lot on other criteria.

Mix & match for the right options

Just because you have only one free wall, that doesn’t mean you have to go for a big portrait of a poster. Why not try to place multiple mall posters to create more as a collage feel? It is promising and can emphasize your personality and style well.

  • You can take your photographs from various trips, laminate them into some smaller posters, frame them and place them to a wall.
  • It helps in creating some perfect memories, whenever you look at those frames, and will oomph up your wall design.
Personalised prints allow you to display your favourite memories / Source: Sakari Design

Now let’s look at colour

There are two ways to use multiple shorter posters to decorate a wall in an Australian household. You can either opt for the black and white pictures or coloured posters.

  • The black and white pictures are perfect for the whiter wall shades. Even if you have beige or other subtle colours in-wall, these black and white pictures are perfect.
  • Then you have colourful posters to be placed on lighter shade walls. For example, if you have a light sea green wall, then colourful smaller posters can lift up the value of the place.

If you have a dull coloured wall, then putting up framed posters can enhance its beauty to a whole new level. It is incredible how few simple pieces of artwork can change the entire look of your dull wall.

Less is always more

Always remember that it is time to give a minimalistic approach to a style. If you are planning to revamp your old place, it is always wise to not go anywhere else and embrace simplicity. These designs focus more on balanced posters and furniture rather than dealing with the colours, textures, or shapes of the walls. So, keep that in mind as well, while using posters to decorate the interior walls of your place.

Art prints vs posters

Like everything else, there are acceptable and awful banners and workmanship prints. In any case, the principle distinction between them is that workmanship prints are typical of better quality and are more novel than banners. This is on the grounds that banners are made on a mass scale and everybody winds up having indistinguishable or nearly indistinguishable duplicates of a similar picture.

The best craftsmanship prints are distinctive on the grounds that they are made by authentic craftsmen. Getting them can likewise be a method of supporting rising nearby specialists in your general vicinity.

These aren’t the main advantages in picking workmanship prints over banners. Keep reading to find out more.

The benefits of choosing art prints for your home

The uniqueness of various workmanship prints absolutely makes them famous among inside planners and mortgage holders. Be that as it may, they have more advantages, including:

  • They come in different styles that can supplement any inside style or room
  • They can improve your mindset and even increment office confidence
  • Craftsmanship prints are moderate, not normal for gathering unique bits of workmanship – yet at the same time offer a decent degree of uniqueness
  • Gathering workmanship prints is a decent method of putting away recollections since the photograph collection has gotten obsolete for the majority of us

How to use art prints to style a home 

The entirety of the advantages above are magnificent motivations to utilize them to style your home – however, how might you use craftsmanship prints to style a room?

1. Set the mood

One of the advantages referenced above is the number of choices you get from craftsmanship prints. This empowers you to discover a craftsmanship print that you like and one that will coordinate your inside plan.

You can make use of shading to differentiate and complement a portion of the room or pick an indistinguishable craftsmanship print that flawlessly fits into your style. From dim to brilliant and from theoretical to nature, there is a craftsmanship print for everybody out there.

You can likewise use craftsmanship prints to mirror the room itself and set its pace. For instance, you could discover craftsmanship prints portraying waves or the sea for the restroom and find tranquil mountains or night falls for your room to assist you with unwinding before bed.

Contact local interior designers

2. Make a focal point 

For most homes, the TV goes about as the point of convergence in the front room with all the furniture encompassing it. This can be a disgrace since what is a dark mirror isn’t as fascinating as a bit of charming artistry.

You can utilize craftsmanship prints to occupy guests’ consideration away from the TV to your connecting with craft prints by setting them deliberately in the focal point of the room. The equivalent should be possible in your room by setting them over the bed or in a lounge area over a divider inverse the eating table.

By making them a point of convergence in the room you can change the style of the room, however, you can likewise cause the space to feel greater in light of the fact that it distracts from the room’s corners or dividers (for the most part where the TV is put).

Since many Australians are now spending their time on DIYs and renovating their home, make printed artwork your next DIY project. If interior design isn’t your thing, speak to one of our interior designers for tips on how to transform your home.

Categories
Design & decor

Choose the best bath towels

A bathroom towel is for more than just drying your hands or towelling off after a shower. Towels can and should be decorative bathroom features that reflect the style of the room and the owner. Emphasise and complement the bathrooms colour scheme, and show off your personal taste with the right towels. The colour should complement the bathrooms walls, curtains, and bathroom accessories, as well as your own stylistic sensibilities.

Look for quality

If you want the perfect bathroom towels, you need to look for quality. Bathroom towel quality is determined by the material the towel is made of and the GSM, which is the grams of material per square metre. The higher the GSM, the more absorbent the towel will be. The minimum GSM you should consider is 550 GSM; anything less will not be very absorbent. You will also want to purchase cotton towels because cotton does an excellent job of absorbing water and is extremely soft. Egyptian and Supima cottons are the best. Another good material for bathroom towels is a bamboo/cotton-fibre blend, which produces an absorbent, silky material.

Inspect the towels before buying

Don’t base your decision to purchase towels solely on the manufacturer’s tag. Towels can have the right GSM and be made of the right materials yet can differ in feel depending on the manufacturing techniques used. Unfold the towels and feel them. Do they feel soft and fluffy? Are the fibres sticking up or laying flat? Does the towel feel heavy? A good-quality towel should have a good amount of weight to it, should feel soft and fluffy and have fibres sticking out.

Two pink towels on a towel rack in a white bathroom
Coloured towels make a statement in a neutral bathroom / Source: Hando Homes

The price

You should expect to pay more for high-quality towels than poor-quality ones, but in the long run, you will actually be saving money because high-quality towels last much longer than lesser-quality towels. You can, however, save some money and get a good deal by shopping around. Look for sales at department stores and linen stores. With a little searching, you may be able to save as much as 50% on the purchase price of your new bathroom towels.

Colour

The colour of your bathroom towels should match the design of your bathroom. Classic white towels will match any bathroom, but the white colour stains easily. You can opt instead for neutral tans, browns or greys. However, if your bathroom is boring or dull, you might want to get bright-coloured towels. Bright greens, blues, pinks, reds, oranges, purples and the like may give your bathroom the extra boost it needs to look cheerful and fun.

If you’re still unsure, a good idea is to consider your shower curtain colour. Find a colour you like on your shower curtain and bring it out with towels that match. Emphasizing a pleasing colour in your shower curtain by placing other matching details around the bathroom can tie the whole room together.

Contact local bathroom experts

Patterns

Patterns should be used sparingly. Bathrooms are often small spaces, and loud patterns can loom large. If you find a pattern you like, you can tone it down by using it with other towels in solid, neutral shades.

Towel storage tips 

Keep accessibility in mind

Your home is where you should feel comfortable and where everything should be within easy reach. When storing your bath linens and towels, some handy tips to ensure easy access include investing in a decorative towel hamper or basket or a bath cabinet or drawers. Installing a stainless steel rack near your shower space is another option.

Save space by using the rolling method of storage

Try rolling your towels before storing them. The rolling technique helps save precious space and also reduces wrinkles. The rolled towels can then be neatly piled in a basket or an open shelving cabinet. To add a special touch, you can explore your creative side and install a repurposed wine rack to store your towels in.

A dark blue bath towel and hand towel in a bathroom with dark tiles
Dark coloured towels complement dark bathroom interiors / Source: Origin Bathrooms

Enlarge a small bathroom by installing a railed towel rack

Investing in a stainless steel rack for your bathroom is a good space-saving idea. The upper shelf can be used to store fresh towels, while the bottom rail can be used to hang the towels that are being used.

Store your towels in sets and make them appealing to the eye

A good idea, especially if you are using an open cabinet to store your fresh towels, is to pack them in matching sets. This can be achieved by rolling the bath towel, hand towel and washcloth with the largest towel as the cover. Tie them together with a ribbon to add an aesthetic touch. Having your towels in sets can save you the trouble of searching for a particular matching piece when required.

Store your towels according to usage

When using a chest of drawers or a storage rack, pile your towels with the most recently used ones at the top and the cleanest and freshest ones at the bottom. This method can help prevent dust from collecting and will ensure even usage.

Install wall shelves to save space and provide efficient storage

Use wall shelves liberally yet aesthetically, to maximise storage space in your bathroom. Various ideas include installation on an open wall, above the toilet or over a window or door. Install additional shelving units in your bath cabinets. Invest in wicker baskets to hold your towels, which can be placed on the shelves. Using adjustable shelves allows flexibility to add extra racks or rearrange your towels.

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Design & decor

How to achieve a French provincial bedroom look

French provincial style originated from, as the name suggests, various provinces in France during the 1700’s. People in Bordeaux, Brittany, Normandy and Provence began to incorporate the opulence of chateaux and estates into their own homes, with the style now being known for its warmth and elegance.

Key components of the French provincial style include marble, wrought iron, carved or rustic timber, stone and lightly distressed materials, mirroring the materials found in French villages. French provincial style can be considered feminine, favouring muted, soft colours and textured fabrics. However, the style avoids gaudiness, opting for sophistication instead.

Source: Lindy De Waal Interiors

Linen

Soft, high-quality linen and textiles are a hallmark of the French provincial style. If you can, opt for authentic French linen, as it’s guaranteed to be a worthwhile investment. French provincial textiles will often give off a “romantic” feeling, but try to avoid excessive frills and ruffles.

Muted colours

French provincial style is synonymous with muted colours like ivory, taupe, sage and other natural tones, with black even being incorporated into many French provincial homes. This colour palette will instantly create a warm and soft environment that embodies the atmosphere of the French countryside.

Statement furniture

Although French provincial style places an emphasis on subtlety, the furniture pieces are always prominent and commanding. Perhaps one of the best areas of the home to express the French provincial style is the bedroom. After all, no other area of the home is better suited to luxury, opulence and comfort than the bedroom. For this, invest in a French provincial bed as the statement piece in the room.

Eye for detail

Although showcase furniture items are key in the French provincial style, nuanced ornate moulding is also considered highly. This means fireplaces, walls, skirting boards or cornices with decorative details are preferred over bold prints and artworks. Furniture and cabinetry also tend to feature striking elements, which help to create an authentic vintage look.

Attention to detail is also important beyond just the furniture, with the French believing that everything in the home should be beautiful. Expect to find fresh flowers and thoughtful touches added to side tables throughout the home.

Wallpaper

Wallpaper is something you can choose to skip if you like how your walls look currently, but can be used to great effect when added to a French provincial style home. A faded fleur-de-lis or damask pattern, stripes or even country scenes can all add a creative touch to your home, but remember that subtlety is key.

A fleur-de-lis wallpaper design can add interest and colour to your muted palette / Source: In Design International Pty Ltd

Soft shapes

Like the colour scheme, shapes and lines are also soft in French provincial style. A distinctive feature of French provincial furniture are the curved legs, which provide a sense of elegance and femininity. French provincial chairs with curved, carved legs are particularly popular pieces.

Tasteful lighting

Lighting is an element that is sometimes overlooked when decorating a space. Wrought iron scones, brass lamps and those capped with glass or fabric lampshades will all bring a touch of the French countryside to your home. The most complementary of all lighting options, however, has to be the classic chandelier. Opt for a statement chandelier that will be the dazzling centre of your room when lit up. Also make sure to dot candles around the home for a constant sense of warmth.

Continuity

If adopting the French provincial style, ensure that each of your rooms tie together cohesively. Having just one room decorated in the style will look jarring and unsophisticated. Mix old and new items throughout the home to seamlessly blend the vintage style into the modern world.

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A touch of the rustic

Of course, the French provincial style is not all about pomp and circumstance. Integrating rustic elements allows you to honour the rural origin of the style while allowing for a more natural look. Try incorporating stone, metal (particularly wrought-iron), timber and distressed painted furnishings to add interest while complementing the overall style.

Be eclectic, not matchy-matchy

Your home should not look like it’s been taken out of a furniture catalogue. Naturally curate items over time, as opposed to buying all the items from a vintage replica furniture store at once. Mismatched yet complementary items add the sense authenticity and merry happen chance evoked by the French provincial style.

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Design & decor

Study room ideas for your home

Whether you have been a student for a while or you’ve decided to start studying again after a long break, creating the perfect study environment at home is imperative to better learning strategies, understanding your materials and passing with success.

There’s more to creating a study space than just setting up a desk in your home. While this may seem like the obvious first step for many people, there are a few factors that can help you to study more efficiently and have a learning space you can be truly proud of.

Create an ergonomic workspace

Having a safe and healthy study environment immediately means you have a productive study space. No matter what size room you have for studying, creating a space that is ergonomic will help you to study comfortably.

One of the keys to better ergonomics having the right chair. Choose a chair that can be adjusted to help you sit at your desk in the most natural position possible. Your wrists, hands and forearms should be straight, in-line and parallel to the floor.

Ensure your home study space is ergonomically set up / Source: RJ Design Studio

Adjustable desks are also a great addition to your space, particularly a desk that can also convert into a standing desk. These desks allow you to adjust their height so you can stand and work. Sitting for several hours at a time is bad for your body, so switch up your study routine. This gives you room to be more active and keep your circulation flowing throughout the day and lengthy study sessions.

Other items to consider include your mouse and keyboard. There are many ergonomic choices on the market. Most of them may look a little strange, but they’re actually designed to place the user in the best possible position that allows you to sit in a more natural position.

Finally, consider the lighting and temperature of your study area. Consult with an interior designer to get your lighting placed at a perfect spot. There is nothing worse than having to sit at a desk to study when it is either too cold or too hot and the lighting just isn’t right. By installing additional cooling/heating and extra lighting (if needed), you can have a comfortable and productive study space.

Adopt an agile work policy

Originally used in the software development industry, agile processes have been used by many companies, industries and now, homes, in order to get through difficult and/or technical projects. Studying can be an overwhelming task and if you’re studying via distance education or self-paced learning, the challenges can be quite difficult to conquer.

Adopting an agile work policy in your studies can mean:

  • You have a solid understanding of what is required of you and in what order of importance those tasks are
  • Transparency to see where your study efforts are going
  • Tracking your progress in real-time
  • Better focus on your tasks
  • A clear understanding of execution order

It can be as simple as using a whiteboard/corkboard or a large sheet of paper on your wall. Using three columns, you will have a ‘to do’ column, an ‘in progress’ column and a ‘completed’ column’.

The ‘to do’ column will give you a visual representation of the tasks you need to do for your studies and, if you use post-it notes to write your tasks down, you can easily re-arrange your notes to show which tasks are top priority, and which ones can wait.

As you complete tasks, you can move them to the ‘in progress’ column and when completed, the third and last column. Another great reason to use this method is so that anyone else in your family (kids or your partner) can see exactly what’s on your plate and whether they need to give you some space with your studies!

Scrum is an agile framework for completing complex projects. Whether you want to use Scrum as a way to get through your home tasks and studies, or whether you want to utilise that knowledge for the workforce, there’s no doubt that adopting an agile work policy at home can help you to stay focused on all of your tasks.

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Reduce any distractions

Studying at a university or education facility can be distracting at the best of times. At home, it seems anything and everything in the house is trying to lure you away from your good intentions of studying hard.

Whether it’s binge-watching Netflix all afternoon or simply just household chores like the laundry, there are several ways you can eliminate these distractions to help you study better.

When setting up your study space, choose an area of the home that is away from family members who may be moving through the house. Therefore, a corner of the main living room may not be ideal. If you have a space that is away from the main home (such as a granny flat or a basement), this could be a perfect place to set up. Just make sure your space is ergonomic with plenty of light and fresh air! This way other people (or pets) aren’t likely to distract you while you’re trying to study.

Creating your own “study hours” will also be helpful. Creating a schedule for your studies will help you to be more focused during those times, as they have been deliberately set aside for your studies. It can also help other family members understand that it’s an important time for you to catch up on studies and know not to distract you.

Stay up-to-date with the latest news, learning hubs & courses

Increasing your knowledge is something that will always pay off throughout your lifetime. A part of studying more means staying up-to-date with the latest in news, courses and resources that can help you with work and future studies.

Google have a number of handy resources, including Digital Garage. Here, you can indulge in free courses to help you stay up-to-date on everything from social media, emailing and Adwords certifications.

Reading articles and news stories from sites such as Copyblogger, Forbes, Entrepreneur and Tim Ferriss and the Four Hour Work Week will help you to stay in the loop with everything related to business, psychology, productivity and even how to improve your writing.

Whether you’re just a student or you’re studying towards starting your own business, keeping up-to-date with the latest news and views can help you understand more about your industry.

If you love studying but can’t find the time to go to a university or college every week, online studies may be the perfect choice for you. Because you have the perfect office and study area set up in your home and you know how to better manage your time and be free of distractions, studying online couldn’t be easier. There are a wide range of education providers who offer educational resources completely online.

Wrap up

It doesn’t matter if you plan on studying one course or a few, having the perfect set-up at home can give you a personal edge to help you study better and productively. From setting up your office in the best area of the home, to better time and activity management, ergonomic furniture and the right online course, you’ll be able to study efficiently, all from the comfort of your own home.

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Design & decor

How to nail minimalist home design

A minimalist decorated room exudes a contemporary and calm feel. It rides off the notion of ‘less is more’, and its style is all about restraint and simplicity. It’s an extremely popular and relevant style, yet it can be challenging to execute perfectly. Here’s how to nail a minimalist home design.

What is minimalist home design?

It is the art of making your interiors functional, comfortable and beautiful, while using as much empty space as possible. In this form of interior design, you play with outdoor views and light around the room, and create an eye-catching focal point. The concept of de-cluttering your home is meant to bring peace and harmony, and gives everything a supremely free-flowing look. It’s all about removing all of the headaches that come with the messes in a cluttered house, leading to stress-free, supremely relaxing living. Minimalism can bring about a very healthy, all-is-calm feel for everyday life. 

Source: Visualising Interiors

A completely minimalist lifestyle will include very few extra things around the house. You won’t see frilly, decorative window covers, heavy throw rugs, or lots of extraneous pillows, cushions or tablecloths around. Most of the walls and most of the floors will be clean and clear. There won’t be any rugs on top of carpets, there won’t be many wall treatments or floor coverings, and there will only be a few art pieces hanging around – and they will be very strategically placed. 

Selecting minimalist furniture

Cost is not an important factor in choosing furniture for a minimalist home. You will be buying only a few pieces, so assign a generous budget and focus on style instead. A single couch, perhaps supplemented by a couple of side chairs, should do in the living room. Avoid beds with headboards, as these are hardly functional but take up space. Give preference to beds with built-in storage drawers, so that you don’t have to buy a separate chest of drawers to hold your belongings. While picking minimalist furniture, ensure that their size is proportionate to your rooms.

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Minimalist flooring & walls

Flooring has a big contribution to the ambiance of a room. Generally in minimal design timber, bamboo and more recently, vinyl is used. For your walls, opt for neutral colours like white, black and grey, or subtle earth tones for some warmth and dimension. Minimalist furniture means that both the walls and flooring will be very noticeable, so choose colours that complement each other. For example, beige walls would look great with hardwood flooring. You can take away the drab, sterile look of a home painted white or grey by adding stone veneer wall tiles for a natural look. Alternatively, paint a short wall in a contrasting colour and texture to convert it into a feature wall.

Maintaining a minimalist home

The advantage of limited furniture is the ease of cleaning. You won’t have piles of magazines gathering dust on the coffee table, or a number of greasy appliances on the kitchen countertop. Cleaning is still required regularly, though, because even the smallest stain is clearly visible in the bright, open space.

Minimalist design tips

Keep accents to a minimum

While keeping furnishings to only the most functional elements is a plus, don’t think that you have to keep accent pieces to the bare minimum. Instead of filling your space with meaningless small pieces, choose just one or two statement pieces. One large piece of art on the wall is better than a dozen smaller pieces scattered around the room.

Source: Ryan Linnegar Photography

Inject subtle personality

When deciding if you want to decorate your abode in a minimalist way, it can be a difficult task in executing the right balance between having it too cluttered or even too empty. A cluttered space can make you feel stressed and confused, whereas an empty space may cause feelings of emptiness and sadness. To avoid your home not really feeling like a home, scatter some well-placed family photos or favourite books in different areas to make the space familiar.

Simple symmetry

Simplicity through symmetry in design and layout is another element of minimalist design. We naturally feel more calm with symmetrical visuals, and this principle gives your furniture pieces room to breathe.

Source: Lindy de Waal Interiors

Light & bright

Large windows are common in minimalist homes as it allows natural light to fill the room and the use of light colours for walls has the ability to make the room appear larger.

Source: Whitefox Interiors

Don’t be afraid of colour

A common misconception is that in minimalist design, the only colours that can be used are neutral hue colours – this is wrong. It’s true that a light, simple and neutral hue colour scheme should be adopted, but accent colours are also essential. Whether it may be a bright teal blue or a splash of green, an accent colour can give life to a room.

The use of some greenery in this bathroom is a clever way to liven up the space / Source: Visualising Interiors

A minimalist home has the appearance of simplicity, but when it comes to decorating your home to be simplistic, it may prove to be more complex than you think. Connect with an expert interior designer to help you nail the minimalist style you desire.

Categories
Design & decor

How to: Use bedroom décor to improve sleep

Sleep plays a substantial role in your health and wellbeing. People are not able to take the required amount of sleep every night. According to the Sleep Health Foundation, the amount of inadequate sleep in Australia was around $66.3 billion dollars in 2017 to 2018. So, how do we improve our sleep?

Researchers believe that the bedroom has a substantial impact on an individual’s sleep. Despite how frustrating having sleeping issues can be, one thing you can look forward to is refurbishing your bedroom décor. The idea is beneficial in several ways.

Your bedroom is not just a dominant place in your house to keep all your personal belongings. An individual spends most of the night in this single room. From the luxury lighting to the traditional furnishings, you must be conscious of everything. Keep on reading to learn how to improve sleep.

Bedroom decor can have a strong affect on sleeping habits / Source: DK Lifestyles

Things that affect your sleep

Here are some points to help you redesign your room. Learn how to improve sleep by acknowledging the significant obstacles and exclude them.

Electronics around you

Studies state that 75% of children and 89% of adults are most likely to carry electronic gadgets in their bedrooms. Such devices, like smartphones, laptops, and tablets, can harm our sleeping behaviour.

It happens because these electronics emit a blue light, which disrupts the circadian rhythm of people. It is the natural process that significantly estimates the sleep-wake cycle. As a result, the human body starts to think it needs to stay awake, and you later face difficulties in coping up with sleep.

Mattress in your bedroom

It is not essential to own a luxury mattress for your bedroom. Your primary focus must be on the quality of it. New beds are reported to have better sleep and lower stress as compared to sleeping on standard beds.

A mattress is a lifetime investment that can transform your health and body. Be sure to test out mattresses at a store or purchase one from companies that allow you to return it if you’re not satisfied. Beds can be an expensive investment, so be sure to look out for different mattress specials and deals to find the best one for you. A right bed will add to your hours of adequate sleep and keep you healthy and productive all day.

Room temperature

Whenever you slip in your bed for sleeping, the body temperature drops slightly. Henceforth, it is essential to have an adjustable bedroom temperature too. If this does not happen, your body does not relax, and you often have a hard time falling asleep.

Sleeping takes time. Researchers believe temperature has a stronger effect on sleep in comparison to light. In case you feel like struggling for a night of sleep, think of adjusting your thermostat. It may help you in relaxing back into a blissful slumber.

How to improve sleep with bedroom décor?

After a long, disturbing day, the essential thing you need is comfort. Most probably, people spend around eight hours in their bedrooms. These hours majorly impact the way an individual behaved the other day. For this reason, focus on your bedroom and plan to decorate every corner in the right manner.

Choose a worthy headboard

Often people believe that headboards are just for the decorative purpose. However, they create a sense of support to the room owner. Try to select a bedding style that has a stylish but sturdy headboard. Most probably, the wooden ones are preferable as they look comforting, and you can settle yourself on them smoothly.

Another option includes upholstered headboards as they can be soft and supportive. You can look forward to a headboard with Benson for Beds voucher codes as it offers a five-year guarantee.

It’s important to select a sturdy and supportive headboard for your bed / Source: Of Object Home

Select the appropriate colours

Colours have a substantial impact on the mood of an individual. Often the colour red attracts people from a far-off distance. It is why emergencies always prefer this shade. Similarly, blue and green and soothing and friendly colours. They create a sense of relaxation to the viewer.

Learn how to improve sleep by choosing the right wall paint for your bedroom. Preferring lighter shades in the room makes it look bigger and comfortable. However, darker ones can give a warm ad intimate guise to the room.

Focus on the air quality

Poor air quality in your room will lead to a night of poor sleep. Your bedroom has a lot of sources of indoor air pollution. People often overlook these and end up in trouble.

Take great care of the carpets, furnishings, upholstery, insulation, as well as the heating and cooling system. Try to introduce plants and fresh flowers in your bedroom. Make it attractive, appealing, and comfortable for a restful sleep.

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Exclude all electronic devices

The concept of a TV screen in your room may entertain you and assist you in watching your favourite shows effortlessly. Yet, it steals your sleep at night. The lights and sounds eventually stimulate your mind and keep you from resting.

Similarly, other electronics stated above also prevent you from sleeping all night. Try to ban these devices in your bedroom at least an hour before slipping in your bed. Activate the “do not disturb” mode in your phone while sleeping and block unwanted notifications all night.

Wrap up

Clutter is also a worthy cause for disturbing your sleep. A neat and tidy bedroom makes the best of a relaxing night. You must know how to improve sleep with a décor that you can handle and maintain.

Bedroom time is the quiet and soothing hour of your overall day. Henceforth, focus on your bedroom space and avoid turning it to a sanctuary. Here’s a recap of the tips mentioned in this article:

  • Remember to dim lights of your room to make a peaceful ambience for the slumber.
  • Maintain room temperature degrees for extra comfort and choose your mattresses, sheets, and pillows wisely.
  • Reduce all the noises and try to surround yourself with soothing scents at night.
  • Always focus on your bedroom, and it’s every corner if you ever face trouble while sleeping.

Try adding these tips slowly into your bedroom so it’s not overwhelming to your current routine.