Whether you’re a work-from-home stalwart or a die-hard gamer, anything that requires you to be in front of a screen for an extended period of time means your body needs proper support. According to osteopaths, sitting in the wrong chair can lead to a whole host of ongoing problems including pain in your back, neck, hips, wrists and (of course) your bum. So how do you know what chair is right for you? Is a gaming chair better for your health than an office chair? And what’s the difference between them anyway! Fear not, dear reader — we are here to guide you on the path to comfort with our breakdown of gaming chairs vs. office chairs.
How is a gaming chair different from an office chair?
There are several key differences between gaming and office chairs. The first thing most people notice is aesthetics — gaming chairs tend to be big, bright and bold, while office chairs come in a variety of styles and colours that are designed to blend in with your interior landscape. These visual differences aren’t just a stylistic choice, however — the sloping edges, tall back and bucket-style seat of a gaming chair are all designed for optimal lumbar support. Other features include adjustable armrests, additional cushioning and advanced reclining capability.
On the other hand, office chairs tend to be smaller and less flashy. Office chairs usually still have lumbar support built in, but favour a flatter seat and a wingless back. The chair backs are still able to tilt and move with your body, but don’t have a super steep recline. Office chair armrests typically only move up and down to adjust to your desired arm height, while gaming chair armrests are able to move at more angles.
Round one: comfort
Based on our assessment above, it’s pretty clear that gaming chairs are generally more comfy to sit in than standard office chairs. Gaming chairs are designed for comfort and durability, as most hardcore gamers spend long sessions in front of the screen. Even cheaper gaming chairs are equipped with memory foam padding on the seat and back, compared to the more rigid foam that is generally found in office chairs. Sure, you can get an office chair that’s decked out with more cushioning, but it will naturally cost more.
While gaming chairs win on the padding and size front, some office chairs have a winning advantage at one comfort element — temperature control. The more open-back or mesh-back styles of office chairs allow for more airflow and regulated temperature. In contrast, the faux leather of some entry-level gaming chairs can become quite sweaty, not to mention it doesn’t last as long as the real deal.
Round two: ergonomics
While ergonomics sounds like a confusing science, it’s really just a fancy way of explaining how much your set-up can be adjusted to personally cater to your body type or chosen activity. Gaming chairs are built with customisability in mind — as we covered off earlier, you’re able to adjust the back, arm rests and neck rest far more than you can in a conventional office chair. While these features are standard in even entry-level gaming chairs, to find the same in an office chair will be reflected in the price. In short, if you want a super-supportive and ergonomically sound office chair, it’s going to cost more. That being said, the steep recline and raised lip of the seat on a gaming chair may not be ideal for office work — the straighter back and flatter seat of an office chair have been designed that way to promote a healthy sitting position.
Round three: aesthetics
As we’ve previously mentioned, the visual differences between office and gaming chairs are immediately apparent. If your gaming chair is tucked away in a specific gaming room or study, you’re likely to be less bothered by it clashing with your existing decor. However, if your workspace is carefully curated to achieve a certain aesthetic that fits with the rest of your home, you are highly unlikely to find a gaming chair that will match. Their larger, bulkier and bolder design means they don’t really blend in with conventional furniture.
Round four: price
While gaming chairs overall are more expensive, some office chairs can creep into the thousand-dollar bracket. Extra support features and certain materials like genuine leather can mean a higher price tag for an office chair. Overall, quality gaming chairs tend to start retailing at around $500, while you can get an office chair starting at around $100.
Which one wins?
When it comes to choosing between a gaming chair and an office chair, it’s really a matter of personal preference. Can gaming chairs be used for office chairs? Absolutely. If you prioritise comfort and support, a gaming chair is your best bet as they have been specially designed for long stints in front of a screen. For those more concerned with finding furniture that’s easy on the eyes, an office chair is a better option — and while you won’t necessarily get the same level of ergonomic support that you would from a gaming chair, there are still office chairs with additional features for your comfort. If you combine your traditional office chair with a standing desk, you’ll even further decrease the strain on your body.
Whether it’s for creating your ideal WFH space or somewhere cosy to create in your downtime, finding the right desk for your individual needs can be a daunting task. There are several things to consider before investing in a desk — shape, size, ergonomics and aesthetics all come into play. We’ve assembled the ultimate guide to help you find the perfect desk that ticks all your boxes, whether it’s for work, play or both.
Eyes on the size
First things first — you need to make an assessment about what size your future desk will be. Getting a desk that’s too big for your space or too small for your needs is an all-around hassle, so it pays to be thorough in these initial planning stages.
Your first step is to consider where your desk will be placed, taking into account things like existing furniture, access to power points, ideal lighting and the shape of the room. Next up is the measuring — get an accurate read of the height, width and depth of your desired desk space, adding room for things like your chair and storage (if desired).
Taking shape
As well as being an important aesthetic consideration, the shape of your future desk should be informed by how much available space you have. Let’s break down the common shapes available and how they might best work for you.
Rectangular desks: The holy grail of desks is the humble rectangular shape, as it is available in a wide variety of dimensions to suit your needs. You can pop them in a corner, up against a wall, keep them free-standing in the middle of a room or group several together to create a bank.
Standing desks: If you’re a WFH warrior and spend a lot of time in front of the screen at home, a standing desk could quite literally save your bum (and your neck, back and body overall). Featuring mechanisms that allow your work surface to be easily elevated, standing desks give you the option to change up your posture, which is hugely beneficial for your overall health.
Corner desks: Corner desks are ideal for those rocking a double-screen situation or a particularly involved set-up. They also make a great space for hobbies and crafting as they allow you to keep different surfaces easily separated from each other without compromising on accessibility.
Stack on the storage
If you’re short on space or just love furniture that does double duty, consider looking for a desk with storage features. A desk with drawers can be a space and organisational saviour, with compartmentalised storage to keep documents and stationery all in one spot. Even if you’re not so keen on the idea of a two-in-one desk and storage combo, there are plenty of stylish office storage options like filing cabinets, hutches, credenzas and bookcases that can take your office or hobby space to the next level (while keeping things neat and tidy).
What you’re made of
Here comes the fun part — what colour or finish tickles your fancy? Desks come in a huge variety of colours and finishes to suit your personal taste and the existing decor of your home. Let’s break down some of the most popular ones below.
Wood or veneer: Keep it classy with a wooden or veneer-style desk that invokes images of charming old-world studies. While solid wood desks look amazing, they do tend to be heavier and more on the expensive side. They are ideal for lighter use as they can be prone to nicks. If you like the wooden look but are on a tighter budget, a veneer desk gives that oaky effect without the higher price tag.
Laminate: Laminate desks are a classic choice for a home office set-up, providing a layer of protection to a wooden core. This process means you end up paying less for a product that still looks great, not to mention it’s more stain and scratch resistant — ideal for everyday use. Laminate also comes in many colours, so if you want something a little more bold, you can find a funky finish.
Metal or steel: All at once classic and futuristic, metal and steel desks have come a long way from being a simple utility choice. They have the strength and versatility to act as either a standard desk for your WFH set-up or a workstation for your hobbies and projects. Their steel legs mean they are strong enough to support a decent heavy load, like your computer and all its accessories.
Glass: Going for a modern, sophisticated look? An office desk with tempered glass is just the ticket. A tempered glass top won’t scratch easily and is resistant to nicks and cracks, meaning you can achieve a chic look without compromising on durability.
Take a seat
Selecting the right seat for your desk is crucial for your comfort, health and wellbeing. Your chair is just as important as your desk, so it’s best not to overlook it. It’s crucial to invest in a chair that offers various functions like swivelling and height/back support adjustment capability. These features will allow you the freedom to alter your position as and when you choose, saving you from unnecessary back pain or strain. Luckily, oodles of chairs offer support and functionality without skimping on style, so you will be spoilt for choice.
There are few things as satisfying as seeing a perfectly curated bookshelf as the star of a beautiful living space. Evoking feelings of nostalgia, calm, intelligence and clarity, bookcases are so much more than just a practical place to store your reading material. When styled correctly, your bookshelf can act as an aesthetic masterpiece that anchors your design aesthetic. So, where do you begin? We’ve assembled our top tips on how to style a bookshelf like a pro.
Scale it substantially
Before you even think about what to stack your shelves with, it’s important to consider the placement of your bookcase (or bookcases). You want the size of the furniture to fit with the room where it lives — for example, two twin bookcases placed next to each other in your living room will create the grand feel of a built-in, while a tall and narrow standalone bookcase gives off a completely different vibe. You can also use your bookshelves to flank an item like your TV or fireplace to create a vignette and draw attention to a centre focal point.
Less is more
While the ample room on a bookshelf may seem like it’s begging to be filled, leaving some white space can help to break up the overall look and prevent it from becoming too busy. Select your favourite items and disperse them amongst clusters of books, being sure to leave some gaps to let the scene breathe.
Pick cohesive colours
Colour blocking is an extremely effective tool in interior design, so it makes sense to employ this method in your bookshelf decor. You don’t necessarily need to colour-code your books, but it can help to pick one or two hues to use consistently throughout your accessories. This will be easier on the eyes than a scene of randomly jumbled colours — but if you like a bit of mismatched colour chaos, go for it! Grouping books by colour per shelf can also create a rather striking visual effect.
Go for green
One of the easiest ways to add some life and colour to your bookcase is with an indoor plant or two. Not only do they have a stack of wellness benefits (cleaner air, anyone?), but they also provide an opportunity to get some varying textures into your decorating scheme. If you can't commit to real plants, artificial plants and flowers work too. There are so many different pots available, from cheap-and-cheerful to more artisanal styles. Mix up your plants and pots for a cute, clashing vibe or stick with one material throughout to keep things uniform — whatever works for your personal style.
Make it meaningful
Your bookshelf is a perfect place to display sentimental pieces you’ve collected over the years — artwork, trinkets, glassware, pottery and all of the other special things you’d like to showcase but aren’t sure where. You want to be able to smile when you look at your bookcase, so why not pepper it with things that are meaningful to you?
Dabble with depth
There are so many ways to play with height and depth in your bookcase layout. You can lay your books both flat and horizontally, or place some decorative pieces closer to the back and layer some in front. For example, you could lean a photo at the back of the shelf and pop a small object in front of it. Things like large bowls and vases are great for adding height and texture to the look, or you can stack some books and then add an object on top. Varying heights and depths creates visual interest and draws the eye — it’s one of the most classic decorating techniques.
Balancing your books
You may have so many books that you struggle to fit anything else on the shelves of your bookcase — and that’s okay! There are ways to style your bookshelf using just books. You can visually break up the space by alternating how you display your books — some can stand up, some can lean and some can lie flat. You can also make room to put trinkets or objects in front of areas on the bookshelf with smaller books and extra depth — this helps to create some interest and can make the wall of books look less cluttered.
Edit your masterpiece
When you’re finished curating your bookshelf, take a step back and cast a critical eye over it. Don’t be afraid to edit your end product when you see the whole picture put together. Certain configurations of objects can look different or busy from a distance, so removing some items can help to create a more balanced aesthetic.
Have fun with it
At the end of the day, you’re the one who is going to be spending the most time looking at your bookshelf — so do what makes you happy. Whether you’re a matchy-matchy minimalist or live by a more-is-more philosophy, there is no right or wrong way to style a bookshelf. Stay true to your personal taste and decorate in a way that brings you joy!
When it comes to style, sophistication and versatility, pendant lights tick all the boxes. As an easy and affordable way to bring new life (and new levels of illumination) to a room, pendant lighting is a timeless choice that never goes out of vogue. However, with so many options comes a lot of questions — what types of pendant lights are out there, where is the best place to put them, how do you install them? Fear not — we’re here to give you the ultimate guide to pendant lighting so you can move forward and decorate fearlessly.
What is a pendant light?
Let’s start from the top by explaining what a pendant light actually is. The name ‘pendant light’ draws parallels to the pendant on a necklace, and it’s not hard to see why — a pendant light is a type of light fixture typically mounted to the ceiling and suspended using a chain, rod or wire. Pendant lighting is far from just a hanging bulb and a lampshade — there are plenty of variations on the theme. You can get single or multiple lights, large or small, colourful or neutral tones, even vintage or modern styles. There is bound to be a pendant light out there to suit your tastes and needs.
Choosing the right pendant lights
Much like any other home decor decision, finding the right pendant lights for your space can be quite the journey! As much as playing with themes and aesthetics is fun, there are some less glamorous but equally important decisions you need to factor in to find the right lights for your situation. We’ll talk you through it.
How much lighting do you need?
Are your pendant lights going to be the main source of illumination, a sheer statement piece or something to pop on to set a specific mood? If the room you’re decorating has other light sources, such as downlights or spotlights, you can be as cavalier as you’d like with the brightness of your pendant light. However, if a room is relying on that pendant lighting, you need to take that into account, as some pendant lights are brighter than others.
Pendant light placement tips
Because they are so highly visible, the placement of your pendant lights is crucial. If you go too low, too high or just don’t pick the right spot in the room, it can throw off your whole decorating scheme. There are some failsafe locations where a pendant light will always look its best — hanging above an island bench or a dining table are two classic examples. Feel free to experiment and go outside of the box — you might be surprised to learn that a pendant light can look great hanging above a bed or make the centre of your living room pop.
Getting the specific placement of your pendant light correct is crucial. The last thing you want is to be bumping into it because it’s hung too low, or getting annoyed because it’s obscuring your view of the TV. Being mindful of these everyday flow issues should inform your sizing, styling and shape-related decisions regarding your pendant light.
Getting the right look
It’s the moment we’ve all been waiting for — aesthetics! Pendant lights are known to make a statement, which affords you a lot of creative freedom, but there are still some questions to consider when choosing the look of your lights. Do an audit of the room you are decorating — think about existing colours, themes, styles, and any other pieces that might compete with statement lighting. That being said, sometimes a good clash can look fantastic — just stay true to your personal taste.
The practical stuff
The shape and size of your pendant light will help determine the role they play in your room. Something smaller probably won’t go the distance in regards to being a primary light source, while larger pendant lights can sometimes crowd a smaller space. Once you’ve sorted out your needs and how much room you have to play with, go nuts!
How to install pendant lights
Installing your pendant lights correctly is a matter of both style and safety. Here are some common areas where people choose to place pendant lights and our tips for a stress-free installation.
Above the floor
First thing’s first — measure the ceiling height of your room before any installation occurs. Ceiling heights in Australia average 2.4 metres, but there are variations when it comes to add-ons and renovations. Interior designers tend to follow the guideline of “add 8 centimetres to the length of a pendant light per extra 30 centimetres of ceiling height”, which means your lights should ideally end up sitting between 30 to 50 centimetres from the ceiling. If you’re feeling stuck, try measuring from the floor up to envision how your pendant light will hang.
Above a table
A pendant light above a table can add a gorgeous glow — if you install it properly. As a general guide, suspending your pendant light about 70 to 80 centimetres above the table top works well — this ideally means no wayward head-bumps or obscured vision across the table. For nice, clean spacing, ensure that the pendant light sits 20 to 30 centimetres from the edges of the table.
Above a bed
Nothing says cool, calm and ambient like a stunning pendant light in the bedroom, whether you opt for an above-the-bed placement or err towards the bedside tables. For a seamless and non-obstructive look, hang your pendant light between 35 to 50 centimetres above your bedside table. If you’re keen on a pendant light above the bed, hang it at least 2.1 metres above the floor.
Above an island bench
It’s crucial to consider the height between your pendant light and the top of the kitchen island bench to really pull off this classic aesthetic. Hanging too low, your pendant lights can create an overwhelming and crowded atmosphere. On the flipside, pendant lights that sit too high will be disproportionate to the kitchen island.
A rough guide to follow is hanging a pendant light around 70 to 80 centimetres above your island bench as a starting point, adjusting accordingly depending on your ceiling height or light style.
Spacing hint
While the spacing of your pendant lights is totally up to you, there is a general rule of thumb that multiple pendant lights should be spaced about 50-80cm apart. This is just a guideline — if you’re creating a cluster, making a statement or have limited space, you can afford to be more flexible.
Sideboards and buffets are the unsung heroes of the furniture world. Endlessly practical, these useful storage units also double as an opportunity to really showcase the personality of a space. The surface of your buffet or sideboard is a perfect place to get creative, as the right styling can really elevate your dining, living or entertaining space. Whether your dining room buffet needs some sprucing up or you have a sideboard that needs some love, we’ve assembled some chic decor ideas that are bound to suit your taste.
Everything is illuminated
When it comes to creating enviable ambience in a dining room, lighting is absolutely everything. Using your buffet as an opportunity to showcase a lamp works well for two different reasons – the lamp creates visual interest as a piece of decor, but it also provides a softer pool of low light ideal for entertaining. With so many different types of lamps available, you can afford to get creative and you won’t have trouble finding something that complements your existing decor.
Pretty and practical
Who says you have to sacrifice style for something to be useful? Get your buffet doing double duty! A glass buffet will act as a storage saviour whilst also showing off your best dining ware, not to mention the clear panels help to open up smaller spaces. If you don’t have cookery and crockery that you’re keen to showcase, a clear-panelled sideboard can also be a great option for displaying any trinkets or curios that you love but don’t have counter space for.
Mirror, mirror
One of the oldest tricks in the decorating book is using mirrors to open up a room. If you’re short on space, hanging a gorgeous mirror behind your buffet will make your dining or living room feel like it goes on for miles. Mirrors also have the advantage of brightening, so they are an excellent decorative choice for sideboards in darker rooms.
Art attack
Looking to make a statement, add a bit of drama or create a fierce focal point for your dining space? Hanging art directly above your buffet in the centre position and following it up with your dining table placed centrally in front makes for a truly dynamic look. You can keep it contrasting with a large piece of abstract art or opt for something in the same colour palette as your existing decorating scheme. As a general rule, it’s wise to opt for a piece that is about two-thirds the width of your buffet – those are some visually appealing proportions!
Try it tiered
One of the best tricks for styling sideboard decor is to use items of varying heights to add some visual interest to your look. It’s not always about placing the largest item in the centre, either – playing with asymmetrical arrangements allows you to build height and a focal point wherever you choose. Take smaller items and weave them between taller or oversized statement pieces, like a pile of beautiful books or a unique sculpture.
Layer upon layer
Want your buffet decor to look immaculately curated like something out of a lifestyle magazine? Don’t be afraid to let your layers overlap a little. Use larger anchor pieces like a vase or lamp, then select some foliage or twigs that can spread across your central focal point. This creates a cohesive and interactive look as opposed to something more stilted and flat.
The rule of three
This tried-and-true decor technique is a classic for a reason. Dividing your buffet into three equal sections and treating them as separate focal points is a fantastic way to create a balanced yet aesthetically pleasing display. The rule of three keeps things from looking cluttered, leaving you with a curated effect that looks effortless.
Glass is class
If you want your buffet to do double duty, use it to display your glassware. Treating your buffet or sideboard like a mini cocktail bar means that your best pieces are easily accessible for after-dinner drinks, while acting as a decorative piece when not in use. Pick up a couple of bottles of your favourite tipples and intersperse with your prettiest pieces of glassware, then finish with other attractive accoutrements.
Feature presentation
To turn your buffet decor into a sophisticated showcase that blends form and function, select a sculptural piece to anchor your display. Things like oversized vases, lamps and, yes, sculptures are an ideal way to make a statement and create a unifying focal point. Build your buffet display around your feature piece and you can’t go wrong – look for items with similar tonal vibes or textures to really tie it all together.
Made for each other
Feeling a bit lost at the prospect of styling your buffet decor ideas? Create a tableau – put simply, it’s a group of objects that look like they belong together. A cluster of candles, a stack of your favourite oversized books, or a selection of beautiful greenery – you don’t have to fill the whole surface, just keep it simple and fresh.
There is nothing quite like a good meal to unify people – so it makes sense that your dining table should act as a hub of happiness within your home. It’s the place where you gather to share meals, celebrate over a feast, sit down to a quiet Sunday breakfast … the list goes on! Whether your dining table is perpetually in use or more of an ornamental outfit, making sure it reflects your personality is crucial. We’ve assembled some creative styling tips to up your dining table decor game – so every day will feel like an event.
Going green
One of the quickest and easiest ways to add life to your dining table is with plants. While fresh flowers are gorgeous, not all of us have the budget to splash out on a new bouquet every other day. Opting for a lush, compact plant or even a self-foraged bunch of native greenery arranged in the middle of your table can bring colour and style in a classic way without being too bold. Not into the idea of maintenance? There are some very realistic-looking artificial plants and flowers available these days, so shake off the stigma and embrace the illusion.
Everything is illuminated
When it comes to lighting a room, you really can’t beat the ambiance of candles – and it turns out that they make quite good dining table decor! There are so many different options for candelabras and candle holders that you are bound to find a configuration that works for your specific space. Whether you want to use a set of mismatched candle holders to create a bohemian feel or go all-out with a luxurious candelabra that accommodates multiple flames, there are plenty of styling options to choose from. Plus. it gives you the excuse to dine by candlelight when the mood strikes – how romantic!
Down to earth
If you’re the sort of person who wants a dining table centrepiece that whispers rather than screams, it’s best to keep things earthy. Who says minimalists can’t enjoy dining table decor? Keep it simple with rustic textures, items with raw timber finishes, and oversized vibes to draw more attention to your pared-back space. Not into naturals? Opting for a monochromatic look is also in keeping with understated (but still very chic) aesthetics – something like a trio of ceramic vessels or vases in a shade that complements or matches your existing colour scheme.
Serve it up
Are your kitchen cupboards stocked with stunning serving ware that only comes out when you’re entertaining? Make the most of what you already have by incorporating some of these pieces into your dining table decor. These pieces can stand alone as a visual point of difference, creating a mini sculpture-scape in the middle of your dining table. They are also thematically on point, as they play a key role in dining and entertaining.
Mix and match it
Much like the art of decorating a coffee table, creating vignettes on your dining table can completely transform the look and feel of your space. Clustering your favourite pieces together to create a centrepiece is just as effective on a larger surface – think books, candlesticks, vases, and smaller plants like succulents. This also gives you the opportunity to play with colour, texture, and height – you can select items with matching tones or blend into hue of your table, or make a statement with some contrasting elements. Generally speaking, if you keep your items in a tight formation, they will look related and like they belong together.
The case for a vase
Vases are one of the most striking items you can use as dining table decor, with endless options to create the perfect centrepiece that suits your style – and who says you have to stop at just one? Select a handful of vases within the same tonal family that complements your existing dining room palette, but feel free to go rogue with sizes and shapes. If you go for a multiple-vase centrepiece, remember that yo don’t necessarily have to fill them all – plus, dried arrangements in neutral brown tones are a classic option that you can set and forget.
Feelin’ fruity
Fruit is one of nature’s most beautiful ornaments, so why not use it to decorate your dining table? If your household members are big consumers of fruit, you can kill two birds with one stone by creating tasteful displays in a fruit bowl on the dining room table. Citruses like orange and lemon provide a zesty pop, while bananas give off a glorious tropical vibe. You don’t necessarily have to heavily curate your fruit bowl either – just go with what’s in season and have fun with it.
You do you
At the end of the day, these styling and decor tips are just suggestions to get you inspired. If none of these ideas speak to you, why not mix it up? Combine some of these elements together or leave your table totally bare – you will know best what works with your existing space and style.
Never underestimate the power of outdoor lighting to illuminate and transform a space. Besides serving a practical function, outdoor lighting can double your kerb appeal and turn your backyard party into an ambient, memorable experience. From outdoor patio lighting ideas to outdoor wall lighting ideas and everything in between, here are our top 30 outdoor lighting ideas for you.
1- Candles
Drawing inspiration from the very beginnings of outdoor lighting, candles are traditional, accessible, and trustworthy when it comes to lighting your outdoor space. Perfect for creating that hygge feeling, just make sure the flames are away from any foliage!
2- Pathway lights
There’s nothing worse than stumbling on your way in and out of a home. Help guide the way with pathway lights that will illuminate the space and look good. You can choose from various fittings and designs to find the perfect pathway lighting that suits you.
3- Colourful lighting
Colourful lighting is fun, versatile lighting for any outdoor space. Colourful lighting usually comes with an adjustable setting, so you can change your lighting to suit the mood.
4- Ornamental lighting
One of the newer trends in outdoor lighting is incorporating an ornamental feature or novelty lamp. Doubling as an ornament for your garden and a lighting solution, it’s a perfect idea if you love all things kitsch.
5- Bollard lights
The ideal outdoor lighting solution, no matter the style or size of a space, bollard lights are easy to install and can be placed along paths or anywhere in the garden to illuminate your favourite plants and flowers.
6- Lanterns
The original outdoor lighting solution, lanterns create the perfect soft glow for that outdoor ambience. Their traditional appeal also makes them timeless and suitable for all types of outdoor spaces.
7- Festoon lighting
Festoon lighting has always been a popular choice for gardens. Easy to hang wherever you please, whether over fences or amongst trees, festoon lights are subtle and trendy, effortlessly adding ambience to your garden.
8- Bulbs
Get creative with your outdoor lighting by using light bulbs. Gather large bulbs, vintage bulbs, or even mix-matched bulbs and decorate your garden with them. The finished look will be fun and quirky.
9- Light-up plant pots
Get your hands on planters with built-in LED lighting. Not only do they light up the surrounding area, but they also illuminate and draw attention to your plants, combining feature lighting with practical solutions.
10- Fairy lights
Fairy lights are not only reserved for Christmas time but are one of the easiest ways to add light and ambience to your outdoor space. Easy to find in most stores, you can drape or weave fairy lights in trees, along walls, or around a pergola—the options are endless!
11- Light-up sculptures
Like light-up plant pots, this lighting solution is another practical option that doubles as an artistic statement piece or feature.
12- Layering
The best thing about an outdoor area is the larger sense of space available for you to get creative. That is why layering works so well. By using an assortment of lights at different places in your garden, you can add texture and excitement without appearing overbearing.
13- Tea lights
Another classic way to light up an outdoor living space and add ambience is with tea lights. Place them on surfaces or pop them in jars and hang them from trees for a soft, romantic touch.
14- Front door pendants
First impressions count, so adding some pendant lighting to your front door is a beautiful, stylish way to illuminate your main entryway and welcome guests.
15- Uplights
For a more subtle outdoor lighting solution, uplights are understated and provide a soft glow effect. Uplights are perfect for highlighting your flowerbed, placing beneath potted trees, or for built-in benches.
16- Beam lighting
For something a bit more permanent, beam lighting is a smart way to light an outdoor area or table with a chic, industrial edge.
17- Hanging lights
If you have a pergola or a covered outdoor area, hanging lights from the roof is a trendy, easy way to light the space. You can hang lights at different heights for an edgy look.
18- Overhead deck lights
Installing overhead deck lights is another way to light up an outdoor space if you’re not a fan of hanging lights. They are so subtle you won’t notice them during the day but provide just the right amount of light during the night.
19- Tree lighting
Trees should be celebrated for being perhaps one of the best accessories for outdoor lighting! Use trees to light your outdoor area by hanging fairy lights, lanterns, or whatever light takes your fancy amongst its branches. Use solar power lights for minimal effort and the perfect soft glow.
20- Wall lights
Adding wall lights to the outdoor walls of your home is a practical lighting solution. Take advantage of a range of different methods and designs to match your style and elevate your space.
21- Fitted downlighting
Fitted downlighting on outdoor ceilings is a great solution for providing soft lighting and enhancing the exterior design aesthetic of a home by illuminating textural qualities such as brick detailing.
22- Floor lamps
Traditionally reserved for the indoors, bringing indoor floor lamps outside will add extra lighting to your outdoor space. Just ensure the lamp is in a covered area!
23- Rope lights
Rope lights come in all colours and are another easy way to add light to your outdoor area. You can add rope lights to fences, trees, or porches, and use them along landscape edging.
24- Integrated lighting
Integrate lighting into furniture that is already there for a practical outdoor lighting solution. Use small LED lights to wrap around permanent fixtures like outdoor couches and benches.
25- Landscape spotlights
If you love your garden and want to show it off, garden spotlights are an effective way to highlight the very best your green space has to offer.
26- Table lamps
Easily add light to your outdoor table setting by placing a lamp or two on the table. Great outdoor lamps include small glass lamps such as mosaic glass lamps.
27- Floodlights
When you need outdoor lighting to illuminate a big space, floodlights are the perfect option. They are extremely efficient and look great!
28 Pendant clusters
Mix things up and install a pendant cluster in your outdoor space. They can be fitted on roofing and will effortlessly elevate your decor.
29- Dome lights
There are plenty of dome lights being sold in stores that perfectly complement any outdoor space. Reminiscent of a moon, they create a mystical, zen-like atmosphere.
30- Sensor lighting
Essential for navigating the outdoors once the sun goes down, sensor lighting is a practical and energy-saving way to light pathways, front entrances, and backyards.
Side tables are not to be underestimated, for they have plenty of potential to add personality and style to your home. Gone are the days of simple side tables that are just a place to put all that random stuff — say hello to the side table as a design feature in itself that deserves to be celebrated! With so much time spent going unnoticed, it’s no surprise that many of us don't know where to start when it comes to side table décor. Luckily, we’re here to provide some much-needed inspiration on how to spice up your side table with these 8 side table décor ideas.
1. Think about colour
Side table décor can help create cohesion in any room through the choice of colour. Choose a side table that’s tones and texture complement the room, and decorate it with items that match the rest of your home's colour scheme. Whilst a continuous tonal palette is key for a cohesive home, remember — don’t be afraid to add a pop of accent colour here and there.
2. Pick a theme
Whether it be luxe, rustic, romantic or boho, picking a theme when decorating a side table is essential for keeping cohesion in your home. Choose décor that reflects the overall vibe and stylistic choices you have going on throughout the rest of your home — side tables have the potential to help accentuate and complement other, bolder design choices.
3. Add a touch of greenery
Side tables are the perfect spot for your plants and flowers. A bit of greenery throughout the home goes a long way in adding a nice organic touch and a fresh feel. We recommend an easy-to-maintain plant such as a hardy sculptural succulent like a string of pearls. Flowers also look perfect on a side table and help inject that extra warm, homey feeling. Just make sure it's one or the other — flowers and a plant on one side table is definitely a bit over the top!
4. Space for scents
Do you have an endless collection of candles and nowhere to put them? Well, candles are what side tables were born for! Place a candle on a side table to add a luxurious feel to your home, as well as a delicious scent that suits the mood of your space.
5. Light it up
Not only extremely functional but also a beautiful design feature, adding a lamp to a side table is a match made in heaven! Add a light that corresponds with the design of the space and use it as an anchor point for the rest of the side table décor. If you choose a fairly big lamp, you won’t need much else, if anything. This makes adding a lamp a go-to, simple side table décor idea.
6. Make use of all those accessories
Little bits and bobs we love seem to accumulate over the years, and it is often hard to find somewhere to put them. Whether it’s that vase you collected on your travels or a handmade ceramic ornament, they deserve to see the light! Adding these sentimental pieces to your side table is the ideal way to show them off while injecting some personality into your home.
7. Get arty
Gone are the days of art only hanging on the walls — leaning your art against walls or upon side tables is now a huge design trend. Showcase your favourite art and jazz up a side table simultaneously! Small pieces work best, but larger ones can also work as a stand-alone feature on a bigger-sized side table.
8. Stack some books
Books are another one of those things we seem to have an endless supply of with nowhere to put them! Rather than overflowing the bookshelf, pile a few of your prettier books on a side table and make them a design feature. Stacked books are also great for layering with other décor items.
The sky is the limit when it comes to decorating your side tables. Always remember that less is more, and side tables can easily spice up any place, so it’s time to give them the attention they deserve!
Gone are the days of anchors and seashells as the archetype of coastal-style décor in people's homes. Nowadays, coastal design is an interior style in its own right and is more sophisticated and popular than ever. With dedicated coastal design furniture, colour palettes, and go-to coastal-inspired materials, you can easily transform your home into a seaside getaway. With so much to gain from relaxed, coastal living, here are our top tips to help you create the coastal home of your dreams.
What is coastal furniture?
As the name implies, coastal furniture is a category of furniture that encompasses coastal design trends and draws on inspiration from the coastal lifestyle. As the beach and the ocean typically inspire the coastal style, there are a few motifs that coastal furniture tends to lean towards. The core features include earthy tones, natural materials, nautical motifs, and colours inspired by the coast. Designed to evoke the slow, sleepy beach lifestyle, the overall vibe of coastal furniture has a relaxed feel.
How to create a coastal-style home
Whilst there are plenty of ways to create your dream coastal home, here are some of our favourite ways to imbue a seaside feel that we hope will set you on the right track.
Embrace the natural
One of the keys to nailing coastal living furniture is keeping things as natural as possible. Choose furniture made from rustic, natural materials such as wicker, bamboo, straw, rattan, or light, weathered woods and fabrics. Embrace the laid-back, coastal vibe by incorporating plenty of timber – think blonde timber flooring or light timber finishes on your furniture, such as your dining table and chairs.
Keep it light
Letting as much light as possible in your home, or creating the illusion of light, is one of the most common themes across coastal interiors. Start by ensuring walls are painted white, which creates the feel of a larger and brighter space. To let in as much natural light as possible, fit your home with curtains that are a sheer, light neutral colour or even consider getting plantation shutters.
Choose colours wisely
The best colour palette for your coastal-style home is a neutral, soft, white scheme with touches of blues and pale green. Not only do these colours work great with natural light to create a relaxed, peaceful setting, they also subtly reflect the tones of the beach and the ocean. If you like bold touches, draw on bright pops of colour inspired by coral and sea plants for a more exotic coastal style.
Open up the space
The coastal style lends itself to a minimalist design aesthetic favouring plenty of space and open floor plans. To effortlessly achieve this pared-back vibe, avoid clutter by keeping accessories to a minimum and not incorporating too much furniture in one space.
Accessorise, but not too many shells!
Keep things simple and as natural as possible by adding a few seaside-inspired accessories. Adding a few shells, glass vases or bottles, and woven baskets gives a soft, beachy touch, but avoid going overboard or using beachy clichés like anchors or beach prints. A little bit of striping here and there also doesn't go amiss, but once again, don't overdo it. Adding some plants is also a great way to bring the outdoors in and help create that natural, outdoorsy feel.
Remember, there are no rules!
Like the beachy, seaside lifestyle, the coastal style is just as relaxed. This means that at the end of the day, coastal style can be whatever you want it to be and lends itself to endless possibilities and versatility. Coastal-style homes often have a relaxed, mix-and-match use of furniture, collected or upcycled over the years. By following whichever coastal furniture and design trends feel most right to you, you're bound to create the coastal-style home of your dreams.
The hallway is the entry into your home, so making the right impression and one that reflects your style is vital. The key to developing an impressive hallway is creating space and ensuring it's functional whilst also looking the part. Just because a hallway may be small doesn't mean it lacks the potential to be a standout feature in your home. If you're stuck for inspiration, these hallway ideas are bound to help you create the perfect portal to your precious home.
1- Add a console
Perhaps the most long-standing hallway feature is the humble console. Adding a small or narrow console is a space-efficient storage solution and design feature. For hallway table décor ideas, lean art or add lamps, plants, or ornaments.
2- Pendant lighting
One easy and simple way to brighten up a hallway, literally, is with lighting. Adding a single statement pendant light in your hallway not only illuminates the space but can also provide that 'wow' factor as soon as you step into the home.
3- Gallery wall
Looking for somewhere to hang your art? The hallway may be the answer! Not only a way to showcase your favourite pieces of art, creating a gallery wall in your hallway also adds just the right amount of excitement without overwhelming the space.
4- Floating shelves
Functional and aesthetically pleasing, floating shelves may be the hero your hallway needs. If you have a wider hallway and need somewhere to keep your stuff, adding floating shelves won't take up any floor space, will help keep things organised, and adds depth to the space.
5- Accessories
Just because your hallway may be small doesn't mean you can't add accessories! Spruce up the space with baskets that double as storage, little knick knacks, or even a house plant. These small contributions will help bring that extra life hallways yearn for.
6- Mirrors
The oldest trick on the book for creating space, mirrors are ideal for narrow hallways and also help keep things trendy. Add a hanging mirror or lean one against a console to create a sleek feel in your entryway. They are also great for checking yourself out as you walk out the door!
7- Bench
A small, simple bench may be the answer to your storage solution dreams, adding a convenient place to put on your shoes or drop your bag without taking up too much space. Choosing a bench that complements your style will also immediately inject some personality into the hallway.
8- Picture ledge
An ingenious combination of a gallery wall and floating shelves, a picture ledge means you can display your favourite photos and art, as well as all the other bits and bobs with nowhere else to go that still deserve to see the light of day. It also provides great options for storage.
9- Wallpaper
Bare walls are begging for wallpaper—a simple, easy way to zhuzh up a space. Use bold wallpaper with geometric, striped, or botanical patterns to immediately add life to the hallway, or just roll with whatever suits your personal taste. If your style leans towards something more subtle, we guarantee it will still add some much-needed spice to your hallway.
10- Bookshelf nook
If you're lucky enough to be blessed with a hallway with nooks and crannies, transforming one of these into a bookshelf is a charming storage solution that effortlessly adds personality to the space.
11- Hooks
Need somewhere to hang your bags, coats, and hats? Your hallway provides the perfect spot whilst also enabling you to create a trendy feature that complements your style. Using floating hooks or a hook rack is functional and will look great holding your cute straw hat and best-looking coat.
12- Add colour
Never underestimate the power a pop of colour can bring to a space. The same goes for hallways—adding a feature, whether it be bold wall colour, ceiling colour, or painted door, will transform the space from ordinary to something memorable and exciting.
13- Rugs
The rug has remained one of the most ingenious and common décor entryway ideas for generations. Laying down a runner will define the hallway space while adding character and a touch of your style.
14- Tiles
Tiles are a safe and easy way to add personality and open up the space. Choose tiles that complement the rest of your home, and select bold patterns if you're looking to really liven up the traditional stale hallway stereotype.
15- Make use of what's already there
Before you go on a hallway décor rampage, get creative with the features that you already have access to. Just like the bookcase nook, make use of any ledges, finishes, light fixtures, or wallpapers. Adding a few simple touches can easily inject your style and some extra pizazz.
