As the days get colder and the nights are cutting in, you may have been thinking of ways to decorate and accessorise your home to make it warm and cosy for Autumn. Choice of colour palette, fabrics, textures, lighting and accessories are essential in creating the perfect ambience in your home this season. Whether you’re planning on re-painting your living room, changing up the lighting in your bedroom, updating the cabinetry in the kitchen or wish to re-tile your bathroom, there are many different home decor design considerations to think about.
To find out which design elements we should be incorporating into our homes this Autumn, we speak to Oneflare Interior Designer Alison Leeder, of Melbourne based Leeder Interiors, to get her expert opinion on the top home trends for fall.
Colours
Autumn is renowned for its beautiful display of colours. Whether you choose to add these to your home through soft furnishings, art, or a new coat of colour to the walls, it will instantly create a different ambience.
Adopt nature’s example and bring in the hues of autumn with warm neutrals, rich reds, burnt oranges and mustard yellows to create a cosy and homely decor. The ombre tones of withering leaves or the blurred shades of an autumn sunset will always guarantee your home is in sync with the season.
Growing accustomed to the new season comes easy with warm cushion covers and sofa blankets. Get your indoors feeling new by updating your curtains, carpets and bedsheets with an autumn colour palette.
Choose curtain colours that showcase nature by drawing on shades of gold, burnt orange, rich browns and creamy tones. Neutrals colours and splashes of yellow can also contribute some autumn charm to your home.
Keep in mind that although it precedes winter, the autumn months have a different decorative element to winter. Remember to:
Opt for soft rugs and patterned cushions and throws that will accentuate the autumn colours
Make sure your window coverings are sufficient. Roller blinds let out so much heat, while lined curtains insulate your home much more effectively. Not only do they keep the warmth in, visually they add warmth to a room.
Lighting
You can never have too many lamps. Table lamps and floor lamps add a warmth and glow that overhead lighting can’t match. Make sure you’ve opted for warm bulbs instead of cool bulbs to add to the feel of the space. If you only have downlights, create a softer lighting scheme by using a dimmer.
Kitchens: Rustic kitchens have recurring elements such as open shelving or hanging pendant lights. Open shelves provide the opportunity to showcase rustic pots and pans, mason jars or even plants. Wooden textures and colours create an atmosphere that invites nature inside.
Living room: Your living room will be getting a lot more love as autumn settles in, be inspired by the colours and textures around you. Bring in rustic dried flowers, leaves and textural natives to enhance autumnal vibes.
Simple and natural decorations in your living room space can add an organic flair by bringing the outdoors in. Surround side tables and coffee tables with scented candles for an extra seasonal glow.
Bedroom: Play with rugs, throws and cushions to create a layered, warm and cosy adobe to embrace the season.
Contact local interior designers
Hiring an interior designer
If you’re still feeling a little stuck or undecided on which decorating trends to follow this Autumn, Oneflare have professional and accredited interior designers near you that can help you achieve your home design goals. Interior designers will be able to bring your decorating ideas to life through their expert training in creating rooms that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
When hiring an interior designer it is important to have a plan and budget in mind for the project you want to work on and make this crystal clear to the designer you hire. That way your designer can work to a spec that is appropriate to your budget. It is also a good idea to check out the designer’s past work and customer reviews to see if they have worked on similar projects, with the same desired outcome as your own.
Tiles play a pivotal role in defining the aesthetic of a space, but trends change, and sometimes, so should your tiles. If you’re wondering how to paint bathroom tiles or refresh your kitchen, having your tiles painted is an easy, affordable solution instead of a tile replacement. Here are some tips on how to paint tiles, ensuring a smooth DIY experience.
What is tile paint?
Tile paint is a type of paint designed specifically for painting tiled surfaces, including walls and floors. When you use ordinary house paint, it will not stick to the tiles. Even if the paint sticks, it will begin peeling away. Choosing the right type of paint is the first step in this DIY job.
What to know before painting tiles
Painting old tiles white using a paint roller | Source: iStock
Before diving into the paint cans, here are three important things you should keep in mind for a flawless tile-painting experience.
Choose the right tiles. Not all tiles are created equal, and you need to select the right type for their use and functionality. For instance, it’s ideal to get non-slip tiles for the bathroom. Meanwhile, ceramic or porcelain tiles provide a solid surface for the paint to adhere to.
Surface preparation is key. Give your tiles some TLC before diving into painting. Clean and sand the existing tiles to remove the glaze and ensure proper paint adhesion.
Select the right paint. Investing in good quality tile primer and paint for tiles from a reputable store is essential for a finish that stands the test of time.
Benefits of painting your tiles
Renew the look
Painting over tiles is an easy way to renew the look of any room. Many people choose trendy colours when they install tiles and later find that the tiles look dated and out of place. Choose from a myriad of colours to give your space a fresh, contemporary feel.
Changing your tile’s colour can have a dramatic effect / Source: Brightr Solutions
Cheaper than replacing them
Replacing your tiles and hiring a pro to do it costs a lot. You need to pay someone to remove the old tiles and check for water damage, and you also need to pay for new tiles and grout/other materials. Painting tiles is a wallet-friendly alternative to a complete tile replacement. You can also conceal dated or imperfect tiles, turning flaws into features.
Easy DIY
Knowing how to paint tiles can turn a weekend into a home improvement project with minimal time and readily available supplies. Depending on the size of the space, you might need as little free time as a few hours. Most jobs take a weekend or less and require supplies that you can get from any home improvement store.
Create custom and personal designs
Unleash your creativity by crafting personalised designs, making your space uniquely yours. While you can draw inspiration from what other DIY enthusiasts did, you don’t need to rely solely on their ideas. You can combine new colours and come up with your own designs.
What you’ll need
Gather the essential tools and equipment to ensure a seamless and successful project. Having these tools and materials on hand should prepare you well for your tile painting project with confidence.
Tile cleaner: To thoroughly clean and prep the tiles before painting.
Sandpaper and sanding block: Use fine-grit sandpaper to remove the tile glaze and use the sanding block to smoothen the surface.
Masking tape or painter’s tape: Essential for protecting surfaces you don’t want to paint, such as appliances and outlets.
Paintbrushes and rollers: A combination of brushes and rollers helps cover different areas efficiently.
Paint trays: To hold and distribute the paint while using a roller.
Drop cloths or plastic sheets: Protect your flooring and surrounding areas from paint splatter.
Paint stirrer: Ensure your paint is thoroughly mixed before application.
Tack cloth: Use to wipe away dust and debris after sanding.
Tile primer: Choose a high-quality primer for better adhesion.
Tile paint: Make sure it’s a durable paint suitable for tiles.
Sealer: For added protection, especially in high-traffic areas or if painting floor tiles.
Safety gear:
Protective gloves: Shield your hands from chemicals in cleaners and paints.
Safety glasses: Keep your eyes protected from dust and debris.
Respirator mask: If working in a confined space, ensure proper ventilation and protect yourself from fumes.
A step-by-step guide on painting tiles
Step 1: Repair any damaged tiles
Showing a cracked tile | Source: iStock
Begin the prep work by treating any chips or cracks with TLC to ensure a smooth surface. Caulk can repair any thin cracks or minor chips by applying a small amount while wearing gloves and levelling it with your finger.
For major flaws, use an exterior-grade waterproof spackle. Apply a little amount and wipe away the excess with a putty knife, bringing the filler down to the tile surface.
Step 2: Clean and sand the tiles
Fill a bucket with warm water and TSP cleanser (Trisodium phosphate). Wipe the tile down with gloves to remove dirt. Begin at the top and work your way down, changing the water as needed. Let it dry after rinsing with clean water.
Use sandpaper to scuff up the glazing without sanding down to the tile body while wearing safety gear. To prevent beeswax from embedding, clean the tile with water and dry it with a tack cloth.
Step 3: Protect non-paintable areas
Shield your furniture, appliances and other items from accidental paint splatters by using masking tape and sheet plastic. Protect outlets and appliances to ensure that your paint lands only where it is supposed to.
Step 4: Prime the surface
Grab your tile primer and fill a lined tray with bonding primer. Apply thin applications with a roller, and be careful not to press too firmly. Using a roller ensures that you don’t miss any parts of the tile and that the primer goes on smoothly. The primer can take a few hours or longer to dry or cure.
Step 5: Paint the tiles
Painting bathroom tiles to renew the look | Source: iStock
Choose high-quality tile paint and apply it evenly with a roller. You can also spray paint your tiles if it’s easier and you have the right equipment on hand.
Avoid overloading your roller or paintbrush to prevent drips. Fill in the gaps and smooth down the edges with a paintbrush.
If you want to create unique patterns, use a cut sponge, prefabricated stencil, or handmade painter’s tape stencil. Before attempting patterns, check the manufacturer’s instructions regarding drying times.
Enhance the overall aesthetic by delicately painting the grout lines. Use a fine brush or a specially designed grout paint to accentuate these details, creating a cohesive and professionally finished appearance.
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Step 6: Let the paint dry and cure
It is best to let the tile paint dry completely overnight, although it may only take a few hours. If humidity slows the drying process, operating fans and leaving windows open will draw moisture from the air and help the paint dry faster.
Step 7: Apply a second coat
When buying tile paint, make sure you have enough for multiple coats, as the exact quantity needed depends on the job. Darker tiles generally require more tile paint than lighter ones. Additionally, surfaces with accent tiles, patterns, or unique designs may need extra coverage. Using a primer to conceal old tiles reduces the overall tile paint required. If old tiles are visible through the paint, you may need multiple coats.
Step 8: Apply a sealer
Finally, apply two coats of polyurethane sealer after the paint has fully set. Allow the paint to cure for 24 to 48 hours before applying the sealer to ensure it is no longer tacky to the touch, promoting excellent bonding.
Preserve the beauty of your painted tiles with regular maintenance. Clean them gently with a mild detergent, and avoid abrasive cleaners to extend the life and vibrancy of your newly painted tiles. With proper care, your painted tiles will continue to enhance your space’s aesthetics for years.
Transform your space with fresh coats of paint
Tile painting emerges as a versatile and cost-effective home remodelling option. The possibilities are endless, and knowing how to paint tiles allows you to personalise your surroundings.
If you decide to let a pro handle the job, choose someone with the right qualifications. Painters in Australia need a Certificate III in Painting and Decorating, which goes to those who did apprentice programs and took the right classes.
Hiring a skilled painter can ensure that your house painting endeavour goes off without a hitch. They can assist you in selecting the right kind of paint and colour to complement your style and emphasize your tiles. With a single brush stroke, you may transform, refresh, and customise the style of your kitchen or bathroom!
FAQs on painting tiles
What kind of paint do you use on bathroom wall tiles?
Epoxy paint: Ideal for bathroom wall tiles, known for durability and moisture resistance.
Latex or acrylic paint: This option is user-friendly and especially effective with a bonding primer.
Oil-based paints: Suitable but requires proper ventilation due to fumes.
Tile paint or refinishing kits: Offers specialized formulations for tile surfaces.
Ensure thorough surface preparation, including cleaning and priming, for optimal paint adhesion and lasting results.
Does painting over kitchen and bathroom tiles last?
If you use high-quality paint and properly prepare the surface before painting, your painted tiles will last many years without needing to be repainted.
Can you paint over the kitchen splashback tiles?
Yes. Paint is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to remodel your home. A few cans of paint can transform your kitchen’s walls, cabinets, kitchen island, table, chairs, and even your splashback.
With a Hamptons style kitchen, you get the perfect combination of a room that is perfect for both family meals and entertaining. Inspired by the region of the same name, the style uses natural colours such as tan and blue that work with the coastal theme along with a tonne of natural light. This style gives you all the space that you need and creates a functional space for cooking and eating.
Benefits of a Hamptons kitchen
Functionality
As you look at Hampton kitchen designs, you’ll find that these rooms are highly functional. Not only do you have separate spaces for cooking and prep work, but you get space for entertaining and organising your foods and ingredients too.
Aesthetically pleasing
The most significant benefit of choosing this type of kitchen is that it is aesthetically pleasing to both your family and guests. While the natural light makes the room look larger, the bright colours turn the kitchen into the focal point or central hub of your home.
If you’re tired of redoing your home every few years as trends change, you’ll love that the Hamptons style is timeless. The colours and features that it adds never go out of style.
What makes up the Hamptons style?
Colour pallet
One thing to keep an eye on while looking at Hampton’s kitchen ideas is the colour combos used. White is very popular because it has a clean and refreshing look. If you worry that you can’t keep white clean, go with a deep navy blue and add some white accents. You might opt for lighter shades of blue and tan that work with the theme too. These colours are reminiscent of relaxing at the beach.
Materials
Wood is the most popular material that designers use for a Hamptons kitchen, both in natural brown colours and white. Marble and natural stone are also commonly used. Wicker also looks excellent in this type of kitchen. You can use wicker baskets for storage or opt for wicker furniture. Wire and metal accent pieces work well too.
Nautical and coastal themes
Nautical and coastal themes transform the kitchen into something special. You don’t need to go overboard with tons of decorations though as just a few pieces work to emphasise the style.
Specific features
Architecture
Now is the time to make the most of the architectural features in your home. If you have tall ceilings, consider adding wood beams. When you choose the right stain, those beams will work in the space without overwhelming your senses. Large and open spaces are common in this type of kitchen, but you don’t need to tear down a wall. You can try removing the doors on your cabinets or installing open shelving. New shelves and cabinets open up the room and make it feel larger and more inviting.
Benchtops
Benchtops usually come in marble or wood in a Hamptons style kitchen. Use a darker colour to make the benchtops the focal point of the room, or use a lighter shade to blend in with the surrounding space.
Flooring
In a modern Hamptons style kitchen, the flooring can make a big impression. Wood flooring is easily the most popular choice. A darker shade of wood hides stains but can make a small kitchen feel even smaller. When you select a lighter shade of wood, you get the beach feel every time you walk in the room. Not everyone likes using wood floors in kitchens though because the wood can develop scratches and scuffs. Consider going with tile in a soft and natural colour.
Contact local interior designers
Lighting
Hanging lights are a standard option for a kitchen in the Hamptons style. Also called pendant lights, they usually have a cord or bar that hangs from the ceiling and supports the lighting fixture. Many of the top Hamptons lights use shades of white and black, but some prefer the look of entirely white pendant lights. You can use lights that incorporate gold or silver too as these colours work with the theme.
Centre island
Adding a centre island is the easiest way to create a gathering space for your family. They’ll love pulling up a stool and taking a seat to share a quick breakfast and relaxing as you cook. The island also creates a place where you can read the newspaper or flip through a cookbook while your kids do their homework. It also comes in handy for entertaining and gives you extra storage space. Look for centre islands that have open shelving or cabinets for storing extra cookware and things that you need every day.
Kitchen stools
Don’t forget to look for Hampton’s style kitchen stools to go along with your centre island. Look for comfortable seats that people will want to sit on when they eat a meal, help you cook or stop by during your next party. Chrome stools have a shiny finish and usually feature a leather seat. If you think that those stools are too modern, go with wood stools. You can choose stools with a fabric covering that matches the Hamptons theme and is easy to clean. Just make sure that the seats are tall enough that people can pull them up to the counter or island.
Hamptons style kitchens use a lot of wood and marble / Source: Aspect Cabinetmakers
Splashback
A splashback prevents damage to the wall and catches the splatters and splashes that come off pots and pans as you cook. A Hampton’s style kitchen splashback can be simple or elaborate. A simple idea involves tile in shades of white and grey that blends with the rest of the room. Using tiles in unusual shapes can make the splashback more interesting. You can incorporate other colours too, such as pale blue and light brown.
When bringing home the Hamptons look for your kitchen, choose contractors you can trust who get the job done quickly. They can install Hampton cabinets, put down new flooring, install a centre island and hang new lights. Those accents help you create the perfect kitchen.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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 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.
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.
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.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Contact local interior designers
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
