Choosing coffee table décor can be an exciting but daunting task. There are so many things to consider, like how to work with the shape of your table, how much surface area you have to play with, your existing style choices — the list goes on! No matter what you’re working with, we’ve rounded up some coffee table décor ideas that marry aesthetics with functionality.
Wondering how to style a coffee table set-up worthy of a magazine photoshoot? Read on.
Team to the theme
While styling your coffee table is a great opportunity to get creative, you shouldn’t totally abandon any existing themes you have going on in your living space. Take into account colour schemes and general vibes that you have already curated, then use these as inspiration to get started.
The long and short of it
When collating your coffee table décor ideas, one key thing to consider is the visual journey that your objects will showcase. Playing with objects of different heights and textures can create a dynamic landscape without looking too busy.
Keep your centrepiece tall, then build around it with items like candles, chunky book stacks, and decent-sized trinkets. If you have smaller items you would like to showcase, opting for a tray to keep them neat and contained is a good option.
Going green
To say indoor plants are having a moment would be doing them a disservice. Lush greenery truly never goes out of style, but there’s no denying that the pandemic has seen a surge in popularity for home horticulture. Opting for a living centrepiece can bring colour and life to your coffee table décor.
If you’re working with a smaller surface area, hardy plants like succulents and small cacti can be an eye-catching but low-maintenance option that won’t take up too much space. Got a bit of room to play with? Go for bigger (but still manageable) options like spider plants, pothos plants, or ZZ plants.
Balance
Balance is important with all coffee table decorating ideas. A handy tip is to mentally section your surface so you can compartmentalise your styling. Choose one central feature like a plant, stack of books, or sculpture to ground your display, then get to work on creating harmonious arrangements within your sections.
Your aim should be for each section to carry equal visual weight in terms of size and tone – from there, the choice of items is up to you! Think crystals, candles, vases, or smaller books and sculptures.
Packed with personality
As with all interior styling, what matters most is that you are happy with the outcome – which is why it is crucial to inject some of your own personality. Selecting sentimental pieces like souvenirs from a favourite holiday, big glossy books that highlight your interests, and treasured pieces from friends and family can help to create a space that is uniquely yours.
Just remember that you don’t have to make it a shrine to memories – clutter isn’t a good look, so swap out pieces seasonally to keep things fresh.
Making shapes
The shape of your coffee table can affect your styling choices. While there are no hard and fast rules, we’ve assembled some quick tips to keep in mind for both curved and angular surfaces.
How to style a round coffee table
. Go for the rule of three – three large objects of differing heights is a simple and dynamic look.
. Trays can look awkward on round coffee tables. If you do go down that road, make sure you opt for a round tray.
. Balance is key – keep your objects clustered in the centre of the table.
How to style a rectangular coffee table
. The rule of three can work for rectangular tables, too – section your space lengthways but don’t feel like the compartments must be equal.
. Keep your feature piece to the middle section.
. Factor in depth of field – have some objects closer to the front of the table and others further back.
How to style a square coffee table
. There are a couple of sectioning options for square tables – go for quadrants or a rough triangle shape.
. Using a rectangular tray in one of your sections keeps with the angular theme.
. Prefer a bit more contrast? Pop a decorative round bowl in one of your sections.
How to style an oval coffee table
. For an oval table, you can opt for roughly the same styling principles as a circular table or venture into more formal territory.
. Not feeling the rule of three? Pick a major moment as your centrepiece, then craft two smaller scenes of a similar height on either side.
You do you
At the end of the day, your coffee table décor should be a reflection of you and your space. If you have a coffee table that you love and a sense of personal taste, you can’t go wrong. Play around with different arrangements and concepts – you have the freedom to change and tinker as often as you want. Happy decorating!
Kitchens are the heart of a home, and depending on the household, they can either be a source of inspiration or a place for routine. Keeping a clean, inviting kitchen can make a home feel whole, so it can be rewarding to dedicate time out of our busy lives to improving the space—and that doesn’t have to mean renovations. Use these styling tips and ideas to invigorate your kitchen and allow this space to flow with the décor throughout your house.
How To Decorate Your Kitchen
Kitchens are particularly challenging to decorate as you tread a fine line between form and function. Countertops, for example, can be tricky to decorate as you want to ensure décor items and accessories don’t get in the way of food preparation. The key to decorating your kitchen is finding a balance between what looks good and what works well, even when that’s easier said than done. We’ve compiled a list of stylish ways to garnish your kitchen walls, benchtops and even floors to inspire you on your decorating journey.
Kitchen Wall Decor
1. Open Shelves
There’s something charming about open shelving—but make sure you’re being selective when it comes to what’s on exhibit. Pantry items should be concealed, whereas quality kitchenware should be displayed.
2. Pot Displays
Not only are pot displays incredibly space-saving, but they also elevate the kitchen aesthetic by introducing an industrial feel. Turn your kitchen tools into kitchen décor by displaying your best copper and stainless steel pieces.
3. Hanging Plants
Plants bring a lively, happy feeling to any room, so try hanging one from a curtain rail or pot rack. Not enough light in your kitchen? Opt for a realistic-looking artificial plant instead.
4. Pegboards
Pegboards aren’t just for the garage; they also come in handy in the kitchen! Vertical storage helps keep cabinets and drawers uncluttered and tools at the ready.
5. Vintage Wall Art
If you’re in a love affair with all things retro, add some character to your kitchen walls with some vintage signage or framed posters.
6. Rustic Shelving
If you’ve got wall space, experiment with timber shelving to bring warmth into your kitchen. You’ll have extra storage space to display essential (or non-essential) items as an added bonus.
7. Printed Wallpaper
Wallpaper can bring any room to life—and your kitchen is no exception. Make a statement with patterned, floral wallpaper or pick something more subtle to create a sense of ease.
8. Eye-catching Backsplash
While tile is the obvious choice for a kitchen backsplash, it doesn’t have to be boring. Allow yourself to explore a range of colours, designs and even textures to find something special to make a statement in your kitchen.
9. Faux Window
Struggling to get light into your kitchen? It may be unconventional, but a wall mirror may help to bring light into the space through reflection. Opt for a frame that complements your kitchen colour and décor schemes.
Kitchen Bench Decor
10. Prioritise Essentials
Avoid over-cluttering your kitchen. Use what you already own as decor before filling in the gaps with newly purchased pieces.
11. Produce Baskets
Keep your fruit and veg organised with attractive produce baskets that can stack for additional counter space.
12. Retro Appliances
Vintage lovers rejoice—the kitchen bench is the perfect place to unleash your retro affinity. From kitchen timers and scales to fridges and stovetops, the sky’s your limit.
13. Kitchen Lamp
It may be unconventional, but a table lamp on the kitchen counter can bring warmth and style to the space. It’s practical and great for task lighting, yet unexpected.
14. Layered Boards
Provide contrast against your backsplash by inviting the homeliness of timber serving or cutting boards into your styling. Lean your boards in a stack against your backsplash to bring in some much-needed warmth.
15. Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is modern, sleek and stain-resistant—perfect for messy kitchens! Stainless steel appliances and kitchen cookware are the common choice and pair well with almost any other material.
16. Upcycle Objects
Many household objects could come in handy in the kitchen. Rather than throwing away an old vase, repurpose it as a unique utensil holder.
17. Mix Textures
You’ve heard of colour schemes, but what about texture? Choose two complementary textures, such as copper and timber or bamboo and glass, and stay consistent when decorating your kitchen.
18. Storage Canisters
Sleek, clean storage gives your kitchen a sense of freshness. Stay organised with matching food storage canisters that can be easily tucked away or displayed on the countertop.
19. Herb Garden
Consider a small herb planter to add some greenery to your styling if your kitchen is flooded with light. It will look good and come in handy when cooking.
20. Bigger Picture
Take a step back at your countertop and look at the bigger picture. Create interest by layering items of different heights, colours and textures such as salt and pepper shakers, serving boards and utensils.
6 More Stylish Kitchen Décor Ideas
21. Breakfast Nook
Turn a corner of your kitchen into an inviting breakfast nook. Keep things minimal—a small counter table and pair of chairs should do. Decorate with a fruit basket or pillar candles.
22. Runner Rug
If you’ve got a narrow or long kitchen, consider a runner rug to help add character and colour to your space. It may add some much-needed contrast to a neutral kitchen, making the space feel personalised.
23. Statement Lighting
Centre an eye-catching pendant light above your kitchen counter or breakfast table to centre the attention of the room away from the dishes piling up in the sink.
24. Sink Skirts
They may have sprung into popularity in the 50s, but sink skirts are still as chic as ever. They’re a sweet way to conceal cleaning items and under-sink hardware.
25. Bar Stools
Invest in stylish and quality bar stools that are stain-resistant for regular kitchen use. Whether they’re upholstered or solid timber, backless or with armrests, a well-designed stool strikes the perfect balance between handy and chic.
26. Kitchen Island
Kitchen islands are great for a multitude of practical reasons, but they also happen to look fantastic. They also double as the perfect surface for fresh flowers or decorative bowls.
A bedroom isn’t complete without the perfect bedside tables to frame it. Unfortunately, finding nightstands that not only look great but function well, are within budget and fit in your bedroom isn’t always as easy as it should be. The last thing you want is to be getting out of bed to reach your night-time essentials, so we’re hoping to get you inspired to make shopping—and enjoying your new nightstands—a little bit quicker. Whether you’re looking for function, style, or a little bit of both, we’re excited to share twelve bedside table ideas that are sure to suit any décor style.
12 Creative Bedside Table Ideas
Creative nightstand ideas aren’t necessarily hard to come by, but choosing one that compliments your home décor is. We’ve provided a comprehensive list of bedside table ideas to broaden your options and give you some furniture hunting motivation. Happy shopping!
1. Practical Drawers
Sometimes, classic is best. Drawer nightstands strike a great balance between form and function, complementing your bed beautifully. Whether you’re a bohemian dreamer or more into industrial décor, drawer bedside tables come in a wide variety of styles to suit any bedroom style.
2. Shabby Chic Stool
A hallmark of shabby chic is upcycling, so why not try one of these upcycled bedside table ideas? Find a footstool around the same height as your bed (or slightly shorter) and use it in place of a bedside table. This switch is unique and fun but best suited to those who won’t miss the bedside storage.
3. Textured Pouf
Nothing says comfort quite like a pouf, and as a bonus, they’re often around the ideal height for a bedside table. Simply set a tray on top with a few essentials to stabilise the surface, and you’re done! Choose poufs in fun matching or mismatching colours and textures that complement your bedding.
4. Storage Trunk
If there’s one thing pirates and lovers of farmhouse interiors have in common, it’s an affinity for chests and trunks. There’s no reason why this handy storage space can’t double as a bedside table. Make sure to limit items sitting on top of the blanket box to night-time necessities for easier access to the inner compartment.
5. Odd Couple
They say that opposites attract, and that’s definitely true when it comes to your bedside tables. Mix and match your nightstands to create an ambience that radiates ‘effortlessly undone’. If you’re short on space, substitute one of your nightstands for a lowboy, chest or even desk to save square footage.
6. Handy Baskets
You don’t have to compromise on function to have style. Some bedside tables won’t offer much in the way of storage—which is where storage baskets come in. Tuck a basket under your nightstand to conceal blankets, remotes and other items best kept out of sight.
7. Faux Floating Shelf
Accessible and renter-friendly floating nightstand ideas can be hard to come by, but they are a must-have in any minimalists home. Create the illusion of space using a nightstand with a dainty, sleek base that disguises itself among your walls and flooring. This will allow your shelf or drawer to take the spotlight and appear as if it’s floating.
8. Step Stool
No, we don’t mean the one in your garage. Decorative step stools are a quirky bedside table option, and they double as a boost for changing light bulbs in a pinch. Dual-purpose items are space-saving, clever and environmentally friendly, and not to mention, incredibly chic!
9. Rustic Tree Stump
Let’s strip it back to basics—literally. Bark-stripped teak wood tree stumps make chic bedside tables, and as a bonus, they’re incredibly sturdy. Channel a bohemian look by choosing decorative pieces that show off the wood’s natural character.
10. Accent Stool
One of our favourite ways to spice up an otherwise neutral-toned bedroom is by adding a pop of colour and interest via the bedside tables. Look for an accent stool or side table with an eclectic geometric pattern or bright colour to offset your muted textiles.
11. Classic Side Table
Less is more, and sometimes all you need to complete your bedroom is an understated side table that will last you through many design phases. With a neutral base, feel free to get experimental with display trays and bedside lamps to pull the room together.
12. All-In-One
A nod to the mid-century, headboards and beds with built-in side tables are not only chic, but incredibly trendy. A low-profile platform bed is perfect for those with minimal bedside table storage needs.
Bedside Table Decor Ideas
The sky’s your limit when it comes to decorating your bedside table, but a good rule of thumb is that less is that simplicity is king. Here are some common pieces found on a bedside table for your consideration.
Lamp
Unless you’re planning on installing sconces, a lamp is a bedside table essential. Use it as an opportunity to add a subtle touch of style to your bedroom suite.
Flora
Flowers and greenery will inject a pop of colour into your bedroom as well as an organic touch.
Decor Accents
Choose one or two decor accents that make you smile and reflect your personality. Think sculptures, vases or picture frames.
Books
If you’re a book lover, why not make them a focal point in your room? Stack up a few books and prop a trinket dish on top for a chic touch.
Candles
After a long day, nothing helps you unwind more than relaxing in candlelight. Add your favourite candle to your bedside table for easy access.
While it may look effortlessly undone, bohemian style isn’t always easy to nail. Striking the perfect balance between carefree, quirky and stylish can be tricky, especially in a space as intimate as your bedroom. If you love all things natural and colourful and want to turn your bedroom into boho bliss, get inspired with these ideas for how to shop for, decorate and style your bedroom.
What Is Boho Style Furniture
Bohemian style is best known for its use of colour, patterns and texture. Current-day bohemian style takes influence from history many different cultures, but it was initially inspired by the artistic and nomadic travellers from ancient Bohemia. This style sprang into popularity during the 60s and 70s with the rise of counterculture. But while most may associate boho style with long, patterned skirts and flowy blouses, it also took the world of interior design by storm.
Much like what’s seen in boho fashion, bohemian furniture is free-forming, eclectic and a melting pot of influences. It’s hard to pinpoint what boho style furniture is because there are no hard rules, but thankfully, there are some common elements.
When it comes to materials, unfinished timber, bamboo, cane and rattan are mainstream choices, but copper and gold accents are also often seen. An arched wicker bed head or mirror are staples in a bohemian bedroom. Upholstered chairs are also typical, with boho style favouring bold patterns in a warm colour palette. Mixing and clashing prints and colours is also a common theme across bohemian furniture design.
How To Style A Boho Bedroom
There’s more to bohemian bedroom style than just buying a rattan occasional chair. Achieve the laid-back ambience of your dreams with these five bohemian bedroom curation tips.
1. Timber, Timber, Timber
Driftwood, refurbished wood, hand-carved bed frames and cane are a must in bohemian bedrooms. By bringing these natural elements inside, you’re nodding toward the origins of bohemian style—the nomadic travellers walking across arid landscapes.
2. Get Thrifty
While travelling the world and collecting unique artefacts to showcase in your bedroom may sound wonderful, it’s much easier said than done. Celebrate the different cultural influences that make up bohemian style by collecting embroidered, fringed and jewelled items to decorate your room with. A coloured glass vase, for example, would work well here.
3. Utilise Patterns
Oriental rugs, tribal textiles and mandalas are all trademarks of bohemian style. The look of organised clutter that comes with mixing patterns will work well to suit the boho aesthetic.
4. Choose Complementary Colours
Bohemian style often uses a warm colour palette, but not all warm colours work well together. Choose a handful of shades to get started and take care when layering with patterns. Bohemian bedroom style is forgiving, but it’s better to start limited and work up to introducing new colours.
5. Don’t Ignore White
While most of us will associate bohemian style with jewel tones and warm colours, white isn’t to be overlooked. White bed linen or curtains can bring out the patterns and hues in your accessories and furniture and tie everything together.
Boho Bedroom Furniture
Looking for inspiration for boho furniture that would look great in your master, guest or even kid’s bedroom? We’ll dive into the four main classes of bohemian style so you can let your imagination run wild with furniture and styling ideas.
Middle Eastern Boho
Distressed paint, lanterns and oriental rugs are what Middle Eastern and North African boho is known for. The idea is to evoke the feeling of a Middle Eastern bazaar, so don’t be afraid of integrating rich colours and leaning into maximalism. Dark timbers and leather upholstery are standard for Middle Eastern bohemian style, so experiment with leather bed heads and mahogany nightstands. Anything with an arch or mosaic tiling will be your best friend.
Modern Boho
If you like bohemian style but aren’t ready to commit to a total cultural makeover, modern boho interiors may be a good fit for you. Botanicals, natural materials and floral patterns are trademarks of this bedroom style, helping create a laid back ambience. Rattan bed heads are a great statement piece for the bedroom and are neutral enough to allow you to adorn your bed textiles with bright hues and rich textures. If you’re not a fan of colours, white on white is also fantastic for boho interiors. When it comes to final touches, nothing says modern boho quite like a butterfly or wicker armchair in the bedroom corner.
European Boho
Dating back to ancient Bohemia, European boho embodies the spirit of the gypsy wagon. Trims and details make a European bohemian bedroom feel whole, such as beads, tassels and gemstones. Choose bedroom furniture with rich textures and dark and moody prints that make a statement. This branch of bohemian furniture style allows you to be more impulsive and scrambled, so it’s best suited to those who don’t mind a bit of clutter. Tie the room together with trinkets from your travels, an oriental rug and a beaded curtain.
Western Boho
Weathered elements and vintage leather creates a space to soothe the cowboy or cowgirl at heart. Western boho takes elements from the Wild West—warm tones, reclaimed wood and cacti—and combines it with the casual elegance of bohemia. A blend of masculine and feminine characteristics, a Western boho bedroom may feature a canopy bed and tribal rug, as well as any other distressed furniture pieces. Modernise this style by swapping prints for textures, such as a jute rug.
Bar stools — they’re sleek, they’re handy and they’re space-saving. But whether you’re enjoying a drink at a restaurant bar or perching at your home breakfast nook, no one wants to be sitting on a dirty seat. Like any other piece of furniture, bar stools require maintenance and care to keep in good condition. No matter the material and construction of your bar stools, we’ve got you covered with some expert tips for keeping them in top shape.
How Often Should You Clean Your Bar Stools?
Unlike mattresses and couches, no hard-and-fast rules dictate how often you should clean your bar stools. Rather than cleaning on a schedule, aim to give your stools some care when you notice stains, odour or general discolouration.
The frequency of bar stool maintenance will also depend on the material of the stool itself. For example, timber stools may be fine with a wipe down every now and then, while leather upholstery may need additional conditioning every couple of months. In general, as long as you’re avoiding harsh cleaning chemicals and over-scrubbing, there’s no such thing as too often when it comes to cleaning.
How To Clean An Upholstered Bar Stool
1. Wipe The Bar Stool Clean
Before you target stains, it’s essential to see what will come off using a mild cleaning solution. If the dirt and stains aren’t set in, wipe down, blot or gently rub the upholstery with a soft cloth and warm water. For more stubborn discolouration or stains, create a diluted soap solution for an overall clean. Allow the seat to completely dry before moving on to the next step.
2. Conduct A Smell Test
It may seem unusual, but it’s important to check your bar stools for odours to make sure you don’t have issues with mould or mildew. If you notice any unpleasant smells, treat the whole cushion by sprinkling a generous layer of baking soda onto the cushion and allowing it to settle for up to a few hours. For more pungent odours, consider mixing lavender essential oil into your baking soda mixture. After you’ve let the baking soda sit, vacuum the surface of the stools.
3. Treat Grease Stains
Removing oil and grease stains from your upholstered bar stools isn’t always easy, especially if you can’t remove the cushion cover. Using a soft bristle brush and a cleaning solution of mild detergent and water, rub circles into the stain until it lightens. It’s important to be gentle with stains as too much scrubbing can damage or warp some types of upholstery, such as PU leather or linen. Allow the affected area to dry before retreating if necessary.
4. Consider Scotchguard
If there’s one thing new parents and bar owners have in common, it’s regularly cleaning upholstery. If you’re finding yourself blotting stains more often than you’d like, try a stain guard such as Scotchguard on the seats. After all, prevention is better than cure.
How To Clean Leather Bar Stools
Leather has the power to make any piece of furniture feel high-quality and timeless, and bar stools are no exception. The good news is that leather is naturally stain-resistant and holds up well over time when properly maintained.
Newly-purchased leather products often come with cleaning instructions and a cleaning solution, but if you don’t have that handy, consider purchasing some designated leather cleaner. Regular soap should be avoided due to its drying qualities, which can cause cracks in your upholstery. In case of small spills, a damp, soft rag is all that’s necessary to treat the stain.
To really extend the life of your seat and prevent it from dirt-attracting cracking, condition your leather bar stool with a petroleum-free leather conditioner or polish and a microfiber towel.
How To Care For PU Leather Bar Stools
Leather’s affordable doppelganger, PU leather, should be cleaned and cared for similarly. Rather than using leather cleaners, faux leather can be treated with household products.
Using a heavily diluted soap and warm water mixture, wipe down the surface of the PU leather bar stool. After stains are removed, make sure to wipe away any soapy residue and allow your stools to dry. Follow this process by treating it with a gentle conditioner such as baby oil.
How To Clean A Bar Stool’s Base
Don’t toss out your older bar stools — a simple refresh and rust removal will have them looking as good as new in no time! Given how many bar stools have a metal base, it’s important to know how to remove rust when it inevitable forms. Here are some methods to try using common kitchen products.
Aluminum Foil Method. One of the most effective methods of removing rust from your metal bar stools is with foil. Soak the aluminium foil in warm, salty water and crumple it into a ball. Gently rub the ball over the rusted areas of your bar stool to clean it.
Vinegar Method. Spray WD-40 onto any rusted areas of your bar stools and wipe it off. Spray white vinegar onto the same areas and allow it to sit for a few hours. Using a foil ball soaked in vinegar, scrub the surface until the rust is completely removed.
Baking Soda Method. Sprinkle baking soda onto the metal base and spray with water. Repeat these steps until a thick layer has formed, and then leave for around two hours. Using a brush, scrub the rusted areas until the surface is smooth and rinse away the remaining residue.
Should I Clean Or Replace Old Bar Stools?
For particularly old, damaged bar stools, no amount of cleaning will be enough to restore them to their former glory. If you’ve followed these steps and are still unhappy with how your pieces look and function, it could be time to invest in a new set.
With two-thirds of Australians working from home, having a functional, ergonomic and stylish home office is more important than ever. From increased efficiency to overall wellbeing, having a workspace you actually want to spend time in will set the tone for a positive and productive workday. If you’ve been working from home for the last few years and are yet to upgrade your space, now could be the time for you to finally take the plunge.
But because we know overhauling a room can be a little overwhelming, we’ve decided to share some tips and tricks for making home office design a breeze.
8 Essential Home Office Ideas And Tips
Ready to be inspired? Here are eight home office design, decorating and practicality tips you need to know.
1. Think Carefully About Location
It’s number one on the list for a reason — where you place your desk is the most important variable in designing a practical and stylish home office. Before settling on a location, consider:
. The nature of your work . Your work habits . Household noise levels . Power outlets and WiFi signal . Personal preferences (e.g. natural light)
Whether it’s a separate study, a corner in your bedroom, your garage or a sunroom, the perfect space for a home office will be different for everyone. An accountant with clients may need a separate room with an area for seating, while a person working part-time may feel most comfortable in the living room where you can watch young kids.
2. Select An Appropriate Desk And Chair
If there’s one thing people working from home have in common, it’s back pain. Choosing a good chair and desk for your home office is not just important for your work — but for your health, too.
Start with an office desk that’s wide enough to fit your needs without overwhelming your space. Something within the range of 150cm + wide and 70-80cm high is a good range. Your next consideration should be desk type. If you work for long periods, a standing desk could help you get some physical activity in. If you need close access to files or stationary, a desk with a hutch may be a good solution.
There are similar considerations when it comes to choosing an ergonomic office chair. Look for something with an upholstered back, adjustable height and arms for ultimate comfort, and explore features such as swivel and stackability according to your personal needs.
3. Ensure You Have Ample Storage And Shelving
Whether you’re working in a tight corner or an entire room, proper storage is an essential part of a work from home space. Fit out your home office with storage like you might have in an actual office. That means file cabinets, cupboards and even shelving.
Take your workflow into consideration when planning out your storage. Keep current work in the drawers beside your desk and anything seldom looked at in a well-organised file cabinet. Be flexible and willing to adjust your storage needs as you use the space.
4. Keep Things Minimal And Uncluttered
Clutter is productivity’s worst nightmare. One way to make a huge difference in how you work is by starting with a clean, simple workspace. What does that mean?
Storage to hide paperwork, stationery and personal items
Hidden cables to keep the space free from disarray
Keeping only the bare essentials on display
While these habits won’t work for everyone, there’s research behind the idea that less desk clutter makes you more productive. With that in mind, there’s no harm in simply giving minimalism a try.
5. Consider How To Light Your Home Office
Lighting in a home office is just as important to your health as a good chair is. Staring at a screen all day can strain on your eyes, and proper lighting can help mitigate any damage this causes. Natural lighting is always the best option, so position your desk close to a window if possible.
Where natural lighting isn’t abundant, supplement with ceiling lights. If you’re only occasionally working into the night, soften harsh light with a floor lamp or small pendant light. For better task lighting, a desk lamp is a good investment.
6. Make Your Office Comfortable
One of the best parts of working from home is that you’re at home! Gone are the harsh fluorescent lights, grey and white desks and too-cold aircon. Unless you’re going for a contemporary look, you can make your study space as homely as you’d like. Here are some ideas for bringing a little bit of personality to your home office:
Let’s face it — technology can be a bit of an eyesore. Unfortunately, there’s not much you can do to improve the appearance of your two-monitor setup, but what you can do is hide unsightly cables. We’ve found some tried and true ways to reduce tech clutter in your home office space.
Move your desk closer toward power outlets if it makes sense
Opt for a wireless router, mouse and printer to reduce cords
Purchase a desk with grommets to guide wires away from the desktop
Invest in a fabric cord tamer to both protect your cables and keep them together
Attach wires to the underside of your desk or down a table leg with adhesive hooks
8. Introduce Greenery
Whether that’s one indoor plant or ten is entirely up to you. Numerous studies have shown the benefits of office plants, including stress relief, indoor bacteria balance and fighting formaldehyde exposure. A devil’s ivy potted in a decorative planter is a good choice for dark spaces or for those who don’t water their plants often. If you’ve got plenty of indirect light in your home office, there’s no limit to the plants you can spruce with.
If you’re not much of a green thumb, opt instead for an artificial plant or tree to add a natural element to your room.
How To Organise Your Home Office
Now that you know how to design your home office, it’s time to learn how to organise it. Here’s our quick five-step guide to organising your home home office:
. Toss it. Start by recycling any papers you don’t need and tossing/repurposing accessories that don’t get used. Wipe down all surfaces.
. Organise office equipment. Keep printers, waste baskets, desktop filing cabinets and spare office supplies in their separate command centre.
. Introduce extra storage. Shelving, file cabinets and even cubbies can help you keep your workspace organised. Work within your budget to keep clutter off your desk.
. Create an organisational system. Wall calendars will help you track your time; Corkboards will inspire creativity; Whiteboards are great for visual problem solving and brainstorming.
. Maintain your procedures. There’s no point organising if you’re not committed to the upkeep. Using filing systems only takes an extra second of your time and will save you more down the track.
Bring These Study Design Ideas To Life
When it comes to home office furniture and supplies, we have you covered. From the comfiest ergonomic chairs to every kind of desk imaginable, we stock a vast range of home office necessities. No matter your preferences or budget, you’re sure to find the right home office equipment to get you started on your design journey here.
Design is tricky enough—but what if you’ve got a space that’s a little unusual? Loft bedrooms are the cool kids of the bedroom world, but decorating them isn’t always a piece of cake. With low hanging or sloped ceilings and unconventional windows, traditional bedroom design ideas may not cut it. To make things a little easier, we’ve got 15 loft bedroom ideas to inspire you on your decorating journey.
What is a loft bedroom?
In the world of interior design, the word loft is used to describe things that are elevated. A loft apartment has high ceilings, a loft bed is designed to raise you off the ground, and finally, a loft bedroom is a sleeping area that’s off the ground floor.
A loft bedroom most often refers to a raised platform in a home, where stairs or a ladder are used to access the sleeping space. Loft bedrooms are often separated by the rest of the space simply by elevation, but they may also have a door, railing or wall. An attic space could be considered a loft bedroom, as well as a bedroom that’s positioned on the top floor of a home.
15 trendy loft bedroom ideas
With so many variations of this unique bedroom style, it can be challenging to decorate loft bedrooms stylishly. Here are 15 loft bedroom ideas to get you inspired.
Modern loft bedroom design ideas
1. Place focus on the floor
Where there may not be abundant wall space for decoration, look to the floor. Modern bedroom design emphasises simplicity, but don’t be afraid to choose a few signature art pieces or even a statement rug to spruce up the space.
2. Brighten up the space with mirrors
It’s a trick that interior designers love—mirrors are a great way to introduce natural light to a dark space. A floor mirror will not only reflect natural light into your loft bedroom space but also make it seem larger.
3. Choose a low profile bed frame
They’re cool, they’re contemporary and they’re incredibly practical—which is why they’re so popular in loft bedrooms. Low ceilings love low profile bed frames are a match made in heaven. There’s no need to ditch the bed frame in a tight space while platform beds exist.
4. Embrace every nook and cranny
Whether it’s an attic or simply a platform in a studio apartment, there’s bound to be some architectural quirks in your loft bedroom. Don’t dismiss these spaces as useless, but instead, use your imagination to transform them into functional spaces. An accent chair can turn a nook into a reading space, while a desk can convert it into a home office.
5. Plan out your lighting
Bedroom lighting plays a crucial role in how a room feels and how it functions. In a small space, having multiple light sources can make a loft bedroom feel bigger. In addition to the bedside table lamps or wall sconces to help you read in bed, a table lamp or floor lamp on the other side of the room will create the illusion of more space.
6. Create a cool guest bedroom
Every good host knows that the secret to a happy guest is privacy—especially for extended stays. A loft bedroom conversion is a great way to keep both you and your guests happy with little effort. Most guest bedrooms won’t require large wardrobes or drawers, so common loft bedroom storage challenges become irrelevant.
7. Go bold with a glam makeover
If rustic isn’t your style, that’s perfectly fine! There are no rules dictating that loft bedrooms need to be either minimalistic or modest. Add just the right amount of luxe to your loft space with gold accents, velvet textures or a jewel-toned feature wall.
8. Have fun with colour
From bedroom textiles to the wall shade, a little colour goes a long way. Bring life to an otherwise plain space with pops of colour in the form of decorative cushions or a playful throw blanket.
A-frame loft bedroom ideas
9. Let natural light guide you
When it comes to bedroom feng shui, windows are something that should never be overlooked. Good feng shui suggests that beds should never be placed directly under a window, and loft bedrooms are no exception. Utilise natural light best by placing a desk, plants or statement artwork near it to draw attention.
10. Carefully consider safety
Whether it’s a low ceiling or A-frame space, you’ll need to consider safety as part of your loft bedroom design. If your bed is high up and therefore close to the ceiling, try to allow at least sitting room to avoid any late-night head bumps. Where possible, position storage under short ceiling areas rather than beds.
11. Convert it into a kids space
With their adventurous spirits, the little one’s will no doubt love nesting up in the attic. For an A-frame loft space, place two single beds on either side of the walls to allow the room’s centre to function as a play area. See more kids bedroom ideas.
Loft bedroom storage ideas
12. Go short on storage
While tallboys and wardrobes are certainly functional bedroom pieces, it’s better to consider scale where ceilings are low hanging. A low chest of drawers or even a sideboard can be used for storage in tight spaces. By keeping furniture pieces low profile, you’ll create the illusion of more ceiling space.
13. Lean into minimalism
The good news is that minimalism is almost always in style. The main principle of minimalism is functionality. Choosing furniture and décor pieces for their practicality will help keep the small space from seeming even smaller in a tight, lofted space.
14. Consider under bed storage
While some loft bedrooms won’t allow it, if you’ve got the ceiling space, under bed storage is a smart way to store your belongings without overcrowding your area. Whether it’s a trundle bed or a frame that comes with side/end drawers, you’ll be happy those extra pillows and blankets have a home that’s not the floor.
15. Go with the flow
Let the pre-existing elements in your loft bedroom influence your furniture and décor choices. If you’ve got exposed beams in your attic, tie your room together with a timber bed frame or chest of drawers.
When it comes to home design, the word ‘modern’ can conjure up images of cold, stark spaces without character — but that couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, a modern bedroom design can be effortlessly warm, friendly, and exciting by inviting a sense of light into the space. With the right cocktail of colours, textures, and furnishings, you can transform your bedroom into a stylish, modern resting space where you can feel perfectly at home.
What is modern style?
Modern style keeps things simple with the aim of making spaces feel airy, fresh, and new. That philosophy is at the heart of what modern design is. Often confused with ‘contemporary’ design, which is trend-driven, modern style is a collection of style principles that have been interpreted since as early as the 1800s. They include, but certainly aren’t limited to, straight lines, glossy textures, natural light, neutral colours, low profile furniture, and unembellished materials.
Want to refresh your bedroom but aren’t sure where to start? Here are 10 unique and exciting modern bedroom ideas.
Modern master bedroom ideas
1. Keep the colour palette neutral
One of the supporting pillars of modern bedroom design is neutral colours, such as black, white, grey and pale beiges. In this bedroom, neutral colours and natural woods dominate, lending to a sophisticated and sleek overall ambience. The room still feels vibrant, thanks to the addition of art pieces in the same colour family.
As a bonus, keeping your bedroom neutral will allow you to switch up parts of your bedroom décor without the added stress of matching colours and shades.
2. Get playful with art
As noted, art pieces have a way of bringing life and interest to a blank slate. Low profiles are an essential part of modern bedroom design, and we can see that reflected in the choice of placement for the frames in this bedroom. Rather than hanging your art, consider propping large pieces on the floor to evoke a cool, laid-back feeling.
Take a moment to consider how other decor elements, such as lighting and bedside tables, can also work to spruce up your space with an artistic flair.
3. Add a touch of softness
While it’s true that modern design favours sleek lines and neutral colours, there’s no reason why it shouldn’t also feel warm and inviting. Once you’ve chosen your minimal furniture pieces, opt for an understated pop of colour or texture that falls under the modern umbrella.
The bedroom above showcases a low profile bed with a soft, tufted bedhead in a neutral colour. The extra elements, such as the berry-coloured quilt cover and shaggy throw, bring a personal touch to your contemporary space.
4. Experiment with different finishes
Interior decorators have long used mirrored, reflective and glossy surfaces to increase the sense of space in a room, which lends itself to the airy, spacious feeling the modern bedroom design aims to achieve.
The subtle pops of gloss add an exciting touch to the boxy black bedroom furniture set in this bedroom.
Modern small bedroom ideas
5. Think carefully about storage
With minimalism as one of the main philosophies of modern design, storage is essential to avoid overdoing it. This certainly comes in handy for those limited on space in their bedrooms, as it means less furniture to make your room feel cluttered.
A bed with an end drawer is a great space saver and allows you to hide away any bits and bobs that are crowding your space. Here, under-bed storage works in place of a linen cabinet or ottoman to store sheets and pillows.
6. Choose minimal furniture pieces
While ornate, luxurious headboards and carved wooden drawers have a beauty of their own, modern bedroom design trades that in for pieces stripped down to prioritise practicality. In this bedroom suite, functionality is supreme, with each piece of furniture modest and straightforward.
The dark walnut stained bed, bedside tables and tallboy feature sharp lines and the absence of accessories such as knobs. The minimalism of these pieces should help even a small room feel more contemporary and spacious.
7. Invest in a space-saving platform bed
Sleek modern bedroom furniture pieces such as a platform bed can go a long way in making your space feel more contemporary. While the bed above is pictured with matching bedside tables, those low on floor space can omit these pieces and instead use the bed trim to rest a book or phone.
Boasting clean lines and a low profile, a platform bed is a no-nonsense alternative to the embellishments of a more traditional bed.
8. Embrace the asymmetrical look
Let’s face it, if your bedroom space is tight, there’s a good chance you’ll have to reconsider the position of your bed. The good news is that there’s an opportunity to modernise your space where having your bed in the centre of the room isn’t possible.
Push your bed closer to the wall and bring in a sleek and stylish bedside table on one side. Leave a gap between your bed and the wall to allow access to the bed from both sides. The asymmetry and extra floor space will ideally add a cool and sophisticated touch to your bedroom.
Kids modern bedroom ideas
9. Stick to a simple colour scheme
Kids love all things bright, colourful and fun — and it would be a shame to deprive them of that in favour of choosing a modern design aesthetic. Rather than choosing neutral colours for your kids’ room, pick one or two muted shades in their favourite colours to bring a vibrancy to the space.
In the bedroom above, pastel blue adds an interesting touch to modern kids furniture pieces without detracting from the light ambience of the space.
10. Pick texture over prints
Rather than defaulting to polka-dots and stripes, use a modernist approach and add charm to your kids’ bedroom by introducing texture to their space. In modern design, bedroom textiles are kept neutral and muted, helping the room appear uncluttered — even with toys everywhere. This bed uses a waffle weave to bring interest to an otherwise simple quilt set.
This one may work better for older kids and pre-teens, as younger tots may still be too attached to their Frozen-themed bedspread.
After a long day’s work, there’s more relaxing than getting comfortable in your own private sanctuary — your bedroom. Given that most of us spend at least some time before bed unwinding, it’s important that our bedroom environments feel cozy. One of the key elements to creating a comfortable space is lighting. From statement pendant lights to sleek downlights and classic bedside lamps, there are options to suit any bedroom aesthetic. In this article, we’ll show you some great bedroom lighting ideas and delve into why having the right lighting is essential.
The importance of the right bedroom lighting
When it comes to creating a certain mood, lighting is a powerful tool — often just as important as the decor itself. The perfect bedroom lighting seeks to create a calm ambiance, where you can unwind before you take a rest. The right lighting will also complement your bedroom furnishings, providing balance to your room and accenting your other decor.
But more than just a way to create a relaxed atmosphere, the right bedroom lighting can have a desirable impact on your sleep. Dim lighting before bedtime can help with the production of the sleep hormone melatonin, allowing you to achieve a more deep, restorative sleep.
10 bedroom lighting ideas for any room in the home
From your master suite to your little one’s room, lighting is something that needs careful consideration. Here are 10 great ideas for bedroom lighting to inspire you on your home decor journey.
1.- Table lamps
They’re a classic for good reason. Bedside table lamps are incredibly convenient, allowing you to control the light in your room without having to get out of bed. Given their proximity to your eyes, these lamps typically come with a decorative lampshade, allowing only enough light to seep through for sleep-conductive activities such as reading.
Choose bedside table lamps that are either matching or complement each other in terms of size and style. They should be able to sit on your bedside tables while still allowing room for other decor and essential items.
2.- Floor lamps
While floor lamps are more conventionally seen in larger spaces, they also do an excellent job at providing good lighting for your bedroom. Coming in a wide range of styles, from tripod legs to two-light designs, there’s bound to be a floor lamp that’s fitting to your home decor.
Don’t disregard the importance of bedroom ambient lighting — select a floor lamp that faces down for versatile task lighting, or up for general illumination.
3.- Sconces
They’re stylish, unique, and multipurpose — wall sconces are a chic alternative to bedside table lamps. These lights can be installed to face up to better light the room, or down for more direct task lighting. Mounted to the wall rather than on any surface, they’re also great for tight spaces.
When installing sconces, make sure you’re fixing them at a height that’s above your eye line when sitting up in bed, so they’re not too harsh on the eyes.
4.- Downlights
When looking at bedroom lighting ideas, ceiling lights shouldn’t be overlooked, particularly downlights. They’re modern and sleek and highly customizable, allowing you to concentrate light wherever it suits you.
Some downlights also come with a dimmer switch so you can change up the level of light in your bedroom at night. Downlights can also replace the need for alternative lighting for those looking to save space or keep their bedroom decor minimal.
5.- Reading lights or desk lamps
If you’re looking for warm and functional bedroom reading light ideas, look no further than desk lamps. For those that love to read, write, or even knit before bed, an adjustable light such as a clamp lamp or desk lamp could be a great way to go.
These lamps come with opaque shades and typically face downward, providing you with concentrated light when you need it, and diffused light when you don’t. With a wide range of muted and bright colours, you’re sure to find something that enhances your furnishings.
6.- LED lighting
Those looking to do their bit for the environment and keep power costs down may be drawn to LED bedroom light ideas. LED lights come in globe form, ideal for use in lamps, as well as strip lights or cabinet lights that can be applied in a variety of creative ways.
LED lighting can be incredibly customisable, from the brightness of the lights to, in some cases, the colour. They also work well as kids' bedroom lights as they don’t overheat and can be dimmable if your little one likes to sleep with a light on.
7.- Pendants
For a designer touch, pendants are an obvious lighting choice. Coming in an assortment of styles, from coastal to luxe, they’re a great way to add a bit of drama to your bedroom with minimal effort.
Hang your pendant light directly above your bed or over another piece of furniture, such as an occasional chair, to create a focal point in your bedroom. Read more about pendant lights in our Pendant Lights Guide.
8.- Ceiling fan lights
In warm climates, having a fan in your bedroom isn’t so much of a luxury as it is a necessity, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be both functional and stylish. Fan lights merge breeze with utility, replacing uninteresting ceiling lights with something more visually appealing and practical.
Nothing says cool sophistication quite like hanging pendants above each bedside table. This lighting option is certainly unique, with two mini pendants on each side of the bed to provide mood lighting.
Install the switches close to the bed to mimic the convenience of bedside tables, with the added bonus of allowing only one light to be on for when you’re staying up later than your partner.
10.- Chandeliers
While there is a whole suite of master bedroom lighting ideas, few match the luxury of a chandelier. This show-stopping light fixture adds interest and bling to even the most basic of bedrooms, with function still at the heart of the design.
Chandeliers come in a range of traditional and modern styles to complement any bedroom. The only rule to abide by is to keep your chandelier proportionate to your other bedroom furniture and decor.
From modern to colonial, there are hundreds of decor styles to look toward for inspiration when it comes to decorating your home. However, we’re not all design experts, and pinpointing your personal style can seem daunting when you’re not familiar with all of the buzzwords. While there are too many home décor styles to reasonably list, in this article we’ve provided a brief explainer for some of the most popular styles in the country.
What is a home decor style?
Home décor refers to everything from the furniture to the accessories that make up your space. Ergo, home décor style simply refers to the consistent elements in the room that can be defined under a certain style umbrella. Lovers of white, simple furniture may define their style as Scandinavian in influence, whereas those who have a fondness for rustic wood may resonate more with country style.
Here are 14 mainstream home decor styles for you to take inspiration from.
1.- Boho style home decor
Characterized by a laissez-faire attitude, bohemian, or boho, style is best described as natural and carefree. By combining natural textures with a warm colour palette, this home décor style appears effortlessly chic. Materials such as rattan and cane are often seen in this home décor style, as well as layered rugs and small details such as tassels, fringing, and macramé.
2.- Modern home decor styles
Clean lines, uncluttered interiors and sleek furnishings what modern home decor is all about. Colours are kept neutral, with black and whites repeatedly commanding the space. Modern home décor applies simplicity to every element of the home, including furniture, in which materials such as glass and steel are often used. Although in design ‘modern’ is frequently used interchangeably with ‘contemporary’, the latter is more fluid and will change according to current trends, whereas ‘modern’ was born in the 20th century.
3.- Hamptons style home decor
Hamptons, or coastal style, gets its name from the upscale seaside communities along America’s east coast. This home décor style brings a touch of luxury to an otherwise natural and breezy atmosphere. Light colour tones are a consistent element among furniture, home décor items and walls in a Hamptons style home. Blue is also prevalent, often seen spattered over cushions and kitchen accessories.
4.- Mid-century modern style home decor
It’s all in the name. The ever-popular mid-century modern style is influenced by home décor in the mid-century, or the 50s and 60s. During this time, functionality was at the heart of home décor, resulting in a range of no-frills, sleek furniture pieces — a deviation from the ornate decorations of the early century. Thanks to the almost minimalist qualities of mid-century style, it has remained relevant even in our current day.
5.- Antique style home decor
For lovers of all things vintage, antique style home décor is the ultimate nostalgic choice. While antique may technically refer to pieces that are more than 100 years old, this style can certainly be captured with readily available vintage and modern pieces. Gilded mirrors, tiffany lamps, lace curtains, intricate wallpaper and clawfoot tubs are all celebrated antique style home décor features, proving an old-world feel.
6.- Lodge style home decor
From tartan throw blankets to log chairs, lodge style home décor embodies a rich coziness. This home design style is rustic by nature, working well with handcrafted timber furniture and natural textiles such as leather. The colours prevalent in lodge home stylings are distinctly warm and earthy, with reds, browns and beiges dominating. This makes leather armchairs and leather couches great additions to lodge style homes.
7.- Art deco style home decor
With a nod to the roaring twenties, art deco style takes inspiration from old Hollywood. Characterised by repeating patterns, such as chevrons, circles and cubes, textiles in this style are often black and gold with vibrant pops of colour. Materials such as brass, glass and chestnut wood are also dominant in furniture pieces within the art décor umbrella.
8.- Industrial style home decor
With a sense of rawness, industrial style distinguishes itself from the rest. Seeming almost unfinished, industrial style homes showcase structural elements that are often concealed; exposed brick, pipes and ductwork are not uncommon in this style. When it comes to furniture and home décor elements, a mix of natural and manufactured materials are standard, such as leather, rustic wood and neutral-toned textiles, art and tapware.
9.- Resort style home decor
When a tropical holiday is out of reach, bring the tranquillity home with resort-inspired home décor. Resort style should capture the feeling of being on holiday, using bright whites, natural textures and pops of colour to evoke memories of sandy beaches and blue skies. Linen is essential in resort-style home décor as it captures the breezy feeling of a coastal holiday, so choose this material for anything from bed linens to tablecloths.
10.- Urban chic style home decor
It’s hip, it’s modern and it’s laid-back all at once, urban chic home decor is wildly popular — and for good reason. A blend of other home decor styles, urban chic home decor borrows exposed beams from industrial homes and the comfortability of contemporary furnishings. Somewhat cosmopolitan in appearance, this decor style showcases both natural textures and man-made materials such as copper and steel.
11.- Colonial style home decor
Hailing from the US Colonial era (the 1500s to 1700s), this decorating style reflects the fashions of that time period. Sometimes described as rustic, and at other times traditional, this early American style boasts muted, warm colours and intricate furniture carvings. Perhaps one of the most distinguishing features of this style is that things appear to be handcrafted, from furniture pieces such as tables to the sconces casting a dim light throughout the home.
12.- Scandinavian style home decor
Nothing captures the simplistic comfort of Scandinavian/Scandi style as much as the Danish word ‘hygge’, meaning cozy contentment. Functionality plays a defining role in Scandi style, with furniture and home decor pieces often sleek and minimal. Colour takes the back seat, allowing natural textures such as linens, jute and natural wood to really create the atmosphere. In general, Scandinavian style is uncluttered and relaxing, making for a soothing ambience.
13.- Baroque style home decor
Gaining momentum in the 17th century, particularly thanks to French Kind Louis XIVs lavish style, baroque home décor can only be described as grand. Furniture is oversized and intricate, with bed heads and sofas often featuring hand-carved trimming clad in gold. Chandeliers, large mirrors and rich, printed textiles are also prevalent in baroque style.
14.- Rustic farmhouse style home decor
Otherwise known as country style home décor, farmhouse interiors have a likelihood to cottage-style homes. Weathered wood is the essence of this decorating style, with distressed white furniture and panelling taking the centre stage. Gingham textiles also play a defining role in farmhouse interiors, as well as patterns such as plaid and stripes. Rustic-looking home accessories such as decorative vintage suitcases complement this home décor effortlessly.
Finding your perfect style
Your home is the one space you get to decorate exactly how you’d like. There’s nothing stopping you from borrowing from a range of pre-existing styles to create a space that’s uniquely yours. At the end of the day, as long as you’re happy with how your home feels, whatever style you tend toward is perfect.
