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.
Whether you’re looking to perch peacefully in a brekky nook or live large with an at-home bar, bar stools offer you endless casual eating, drinking and general sitting opportunities. But before you jump right into setting up your flexible seating space, there are a few things you need to know about how to choose the right bar and counter stool. Read on for our complete bar stool buying guide.
How to choose the right bar stool
It’s not rocket science, but it definitely poses its challenges! When picking out bar stools, you’ll need to take into account a few different measurements and select a style you’re into. We’ve put together a bar stool buying guide to make it easy to choose the right stool for your home.
1. Measure your counter height
When it comes to bar stools, the colour, style and feature choices are endless. The only real consideration you’ll have to factor in is the height of your counter or bar space. In Australia, residential kitchen counters and commercial bars have standardised measurements, which are:
. 90cm for the kitchen bench . 105cm for a commercial bar
That being said, anything old or DIY’d may have different measurements, so it’s best to grab the measuring tape just in case. Tall tables, kitchen islands and dining tables also all have varying heights.
Take height by measuring from the floor to the underside of the counter or bench. The height of your kitchen counter, for example, will determine how tall your counter height bar stools should be.
2. Determine the ideal bar stool height
Once you’ve figured out how high your counter or bar is, you’re in the best position to choose a height for your bar stool. How high a bar stool should be will come down to counter height, the surface’s intended purpose, and personal preference.
As a general guide, most people prefer between 20 and 30cm clearance between the top of a seating surface and the underside of a table, bench or counter. Remember that counter height is measured to the base of the surface, while bar stool height usually refers to the distance between the ground and the top of the seat. So, if your kitchen counter is 85cm tall, look for a bar stool that’s around 60cm high. This should enable you to comfortably rest your elbows on your kitchen or dining surface, allowing you to eat, drink or work with ease.
When working outside of these guidelines, keep in mind that you may lose some functionality of your counter, bar or bench if your stool is either too low or too high.
3. Consider bar stool size
From large, cushioned and backed bar stools to sleek and minimalist designs, there are bar stools in a whole range of sizes to suit any space. Some may prefer a larger bar stool with more sitting room for comfort, while others may opt for a few narrow stools for a more minimalist aesthetic. Your decision will come down to personal preference.
You’ll also need to consider the size of your seating area before settling on bar stools. Keep in mind that chairs will ideally have 60cm of space between them to allow each person to move comfortably. In a 2m wide area, you may be able to fit three smaller sized stools, but only two larger seats.
4. Pick your bar stool colour, comfort and other features
With height and size covered off, all there’s left to do is to get shopping! Select the material, style, shape and colour of your stools and place them by the kitchen counter, bar, island or table. Here’s a quick guide for all your styling options.
Bar stool materials
Whether it’s polished stainless steel or decorative rattan, your options for bar stool materials are plenty. Match the style of the rest of your furniture or change it up by choosing bar stools in a different material. Here are some common bar stool materials:
Dreaming of a casual Scandi dining space? Or is mid-century style more up your alley? Spruce up your bar or kitchen counter space with bar stools in your choice of decor style. Here are just a few styles to get you inspired:
Referring to the shape of the seat, bar stools come in a small variety of shapes to suit any preference and style. We’ve listed some common shapes for bar stools:
. Round . Square . Rectangular . Abstract
Other bar stool features
From plush, tall backrests to bar stools with gas lifts, there are many bar and counter stool features to factor into your buying decision. Here are a few questions to ask throughout the buying process:
. Do I want a backrest? . What colour do I prefer? . With arms or armless? . Does it need to be stackable? . Is adjustable height/gas lift important to me? . Do I need it to swivel?
If you’re buying bar stools for the home, the decision to include or exclude these features will come down to personal preference, but it’s a little more tricky in a commercial setting. The ability to adjust the height of the stool may be important in a restaurant or bar, where patrons may have vastly different heights. If you’ll be using it in a business environment, make sure your stool is commercial grade and designed to stand regular use.
Whether you’re outfitting a kitchen bench, dive bar or casual workspace, this bar stool buying guide should help you pick the right piece (or more likely pieces) for your space.
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.
It’s out with the old and in with the new – contemporary furniture is making waves in the world of home décor, replacing frills and buttons with clean, geometric lines. If you’re eager to replace your 80s floral couch with something a touch more modern but are stuck on what to look for, you’ve come to the right place. From your bedroom to the dining room,we’re here to help you make your contemporary style dreams come true.
What is contemporary style?
In the world of design, contemporary style is defined by a deviation from the traditional decor. What does this look like? Clean lines, simple spaces, and a neutral colour palette. In a home, contemporary style can have just as much to do with space as the furniture.
While modern-style may get a bit of a bad rap for appearing ‘cold’, this could not be further from the truth. While furniture may lack overt warmth and cozy components, a good contemporary style achieves a harmonious balance between fresh and homey.
In practice, contemporary style looks uncluttered, with decor elements kept somewhat minimal. Sofas and beds usually omit design elements like ruffles, skirts, or tassels. Tables avoid intricate carving, favouring bold structural lines instead.
12 ways to decorate with contemporary furniture
As mentioned above, contemporary style is characterised by an overall simple aesthetic. While furniture is just one element of overall style, in itself contemporary furniture possesses features to complement the overall contemporary style. These include:
. Strong straight and curved lines . Unadorned furniture which avoids excessive carving . Colour palettes commanded by black, white and neutrals . Upholstery avoiding busy prints and clashing colours . Minimal, simple decor pieces
Read on for contemporary furniture design inspiration for any space in your home.
Contemporary bedroom furniture ideas
1- Experiment with texture
When it comes to contemporary bedrooms, it’s hard to look past black and whites. Get back to black (and white) while still keeping your room feeling warm by incorporating modern textures to compliment your space. In this bedroom, woven leather brings a natural touch to an otherwise muted space, while still keeping things looking trendy.
2- Consider muted colours
For colour-lovers, the good news is that colour can certainly be made to look modern. Play it safe by choosing muted colours, such as pastels and light wood grains, to keep your room looking modish. Here, a headboard is omitted to allow baby pink and grey cushions to take centre stage, and two minimal bedside tables tie the space together.
3- Mix and match materials
Whereas more traditional bedroom designs may feature matching sets of furniture, contemporary spaces favour mix and matching materials. The trick is to keep furniture elements simple in pattern and texture, allowing decor features to draw attention. In this bedroom, an upholstered beige bed frame is balanced with modest, light timber bedside tables. The room is tied together with black metal lamps and photo frames.
Contemporary dining room furniture ideas
4- Keep things light and airy
When it comes to contemporary style, what you don’t do is almost as important as what you do. Modern dining rooms avoid over-cluttering and keep both decor and furniture sleek and streamlined. White walls, furniture and modern rugs make this dining room feel spacious, and the pops of black, green and wood keep it grounded.
5- Introduce glass elements
Glass is rooted in the modern style movement, as glass coffee tables, hall tables and even dining room tables replaced their heavy timber counterparts in the early 2000s. Polished and sophisticated, glass furniture is still considered the epitome of modern style today. Here, a glass tabletop is held up by angular metal legs, giving this room a contemporary feel.
6- Incorporate hard lines
Nothing says contemporary quite like hard lines and geometric shapes. Moving away from the plush, scalloped interiors of the 80s, modern style prefers to make a statement through its silhouettes. This dining space combines hard lines with soft. While the table and chairs feature sharp corners, round decor elements and a shag rug offset the harsh interiors.
Contemporary living room furniture ideas
7- Consider geometric patterns
If you’re looking to update your living space, introducing some structural lines in the form of geometric upholstery fabrics is an easy way to go about it. Cushions, rugs and even throws featuring basic geometric shapes such as triangles can elevate your living room, giving it a more modern feel. In this funky living room, the textiles feature pops of colour and visually interesting patterns to help animate the space.
8- Choose natural materials
Contrary to what some might think, furniture and decor made of natural materials don’t always have to lean into a bohemian style. In fact, natural textures and finishes have the power to root a piece of furniture into the current day. Here, jute, timber, leather and suede are used to create a pleasant, warm atmosphere without detracting from the clean modernism.
9- Go dual-toned
While bold colours are sometimes shied away from in contemporary design, you’ll be glad to learn there is a modern way to use colours you may not have thought of. Choose two main colours to liven up your space with, such as warm yellow and grey as pictured here, and keep things consistent across your living room.
Contemporary outdoor furniture ideas
10- Bring in modern touches
A straightforward way to inject a bit of contemporary style into your outdoor setting is by accessorising with modern-looking decor items. In this transitional outdoor space, throw pillows, vases, bowls and candle holders have been introduced to transform the scene. Sharp and geometric patterns offset the curved sofa profile to shift this space from classic to chic.
11- Keep furniture balanced
Balance is key to both a healthy life and a stylish outdoor dining area. Modern outdoor furniture should allow a space to feel spacious through a harmony of colours, textures and lines. The fun and fresh colour palette paired with the linear furniture and natural textures in this outdoor dining space strikes a good balance between warm and contemporary.
12- Go sleek and simple
Contrary to popular belief, outdoor furniture doesn’t always have to be bulky in order to be durable. Sleek furniture always looks elegant and contemporary, whether it’s inside your living room or on your back deck. The outdoor sofa in this entertainment space features slim legs and arms, making the space look fresh and airy.
Remember to keep an open mind
Whether you’re looking for subtle updates to your current home decor or are looking to strip down and start from scratch, we hope you’re inspired by our favourite tips and tricks. Keep in mind that our ideas aren’t hard rules, and you’re free to experiment with any decor features and furniture that your heart desires. Contemporary is, after all, ever-changing.
When presented with the choice of regular beds or bunk beds, kids will choose bunk beds every time. That’s because bunk beds make sharing a room with an annoying sibling fun - and then climbing up and down part probably has something to do with it, too. So if you’re ready to make your kid’s dreams come true, read on for everything you’ll need to know about buying a bunk bed and bunk bed safety.
Are bunk beds a good idea?
Sometimes, what kids want and what’s good for them don’t line up. A certain level of caution should be taken with bunk beds, given they’re not suitable for kids of all ages and temperaments. That considered, for most families, bunk beds are a perfectly safe and rewarding investment for everyone involved.
With a bunk bed, you’ll have more floor space for storage, and your kids will have more room for their hobbies and homework. Your kids will also appreciate the independent zones a bunk bed has when they need a little bit of time out from each other.
How to choose a bunk bed
If you’ve decided a bunk bed is a good idea for your family, the next step is choosing the right one. From trio bunks to slides, there are many options to consider, and it’s not always obvious what’s best for you. Here are eight steps to help you choose the perfect bunk bed for your little ones:
Consider the height of the top bunk to the ceiling
How far should a bunk bed be from the ceiling? Well, it depends on the height of your child, but to be safe, you should leave at least 60cm from the top bunk to the ceiling. So, for example, if the bunk bed is 180cm high, make sure your ceilings are at least 240cm high, to prevent your child from hitting their head.
Check to see if the bunk beds separate
If your kids will eventually have their own bedrooms, consider whether bunk beds that separate into two single beds would be a good option for you. With a little bit of forward-thinking, you’ll be able to save money on new beds in the future. As a bonus, two single beds are likely to sell for more than a bunk bed on second-hand marketplaces when your kids have outgrown them.
Decide between metal and wood bunk beds
Weigh up the pros and cons of metal versus wood. Wood is sturdy and long-lasting, but metal tends to come with a lower price tag. Another consideration is how these styles of bunk beds will fit in with the rest of your decor. If the rest of your kid's room furniture and decor accents are made of one material, it could be best to pick a bunk bed that will complement the other pieces.
Choose between stairs and ladders
Deciding between stairs and ladders is for the most part simply personal preference. Some may consider stairs safer for curious younger children who may attempt to climb the ladder when your back is turned. Stairs do, however, take up more space than a ladder, which could be a deal-breaker for those that have limited space.
Think about adding a trundle
Many families who choose bunk beds do so to maximize floor space, and another way to do that is with a trundle. Trundles fit conveniently underneath the bottom bunk and accommodate either another mattress or can be used to store bedding, reading material, and pajamas.
Plan for the future
When it comes to choosing the most appropriately sized bunk bed for your kids, you’ll need to consider your future plans. If you know your kids will have their own bedrooms before they are teenagers, single bunk beds will probably be fine until then. However, if your kids will be sharing a room when they’re older, a trio bunk bed may be a better option.
Match your bunk beds to your decor
From black metal bunk beds to pink princess bunks, there’s certainly no lack of style options. Find a bunk bed that will complement the rest of your kid's room decor. If you’ve got a certain theme in your kid's room, keep things consistent with your choice of bunk beds,
Explore a few different options
Before you commit to one style of bunk bed, take a moment to consider a few other options. Whether that’s a kids bunk bed with a slide, a kids bunk bed with a desk, or a kids bunk bed with storage, you and your kids may be happier with something that wasn’t in the original plan.
Top 5 bunk bed safety tips
You may just see a bed, but to kids, bunk beds are essentially indoor playground equipment. And while it’s impossible to police their every move, certain measures can be taken to make sure your kids will be safe on their own. We’ve suggested five ways you can make sure your bunk bed is as safe as it can be.
1- Check the safety standards: The ACCC (Australian Competition and Consumer Commission) has set standards for the design of bunk beds. Compliant bunk beds will have a label to indicate it has met these safety standards.
2- Assemble with care: Don’t assume you can assemble a bunk bed without instructions - make sure you’re properly putting your bed together, as poorly assembled beds can be dangerous.
3- Place the bed in a good position: Position your bed in the safest possible spot in the room. This means the bed will be away from any ceiling fans, windows, lights, air conditioners, or blinds.
4- Use guard rails: Bunk beds should not be used without guard rails installed on all sides of the top bunk. Make sure your bed has rails on all four sides.
5- Set clear boundaries: Reinforce that a bunk bed is exactly that - a bed, and not a place for playing. Let your kids know of the dangers of improper use to discourage them from hurting themselves.
Bunk bed safety FAQs
What is the recommended age for bunk beds?
Kids are naturally adventurous and will probably want up on the top bunk as soon as they can ask, but unfortunately, it’s probably not a good idea for the very little ones. It’s generally recommended that kids not be allowed up to the top bunk until late primary school, or around nine years old.
What is the weight limit on a top bunk bed?
A properly assembled bunk bed should easily support one child on the top bunk. It’s not advised that more than one child be up on the top bunk at any given time, so keep any sleepovers to the bottom bunk of a trio bed.
What is the maximum height for a top bunk mattress?
The mattress on a top bunk bed should be relatively low profile in order to maximize the efficiency of the guard rails. For this reason, keep the mattress to a maximum depth of under 18cm.
Can adults sleep in bunk beds?
Aside from the fact that it would probably be quite uncomfortable to fit in any kids-sized bed, it’s not advised for adults to sleep in bunk beds made for kids. If your little one wants to sleep next to you, it’s a better idea for them to join you in your bed rather than the other way around.
How to build a safe bunk bed
Assembling a bunk bed safely shouldn’t be difficult. Make sure you’re carefully reading the instruction manual and firmly tightening each screw to ensure the sturdiest possible build.
Kids are a source of endless joy and creativity, but their visions may be a little hard to make a reality when it comes to their bedrooms. And while you may not be able to recreate Elsa’s icy castle, there is indeed a sweet spot where a child’s imagination meets adult sensibilities. In this article, we’ve collected some kids bedroom decor ideas that we hope you and your little darlings will love.
What do kids need in their bedroom?
What your kids think they need and what they actually need are two different tales (with one being far more realistic than the other). When you strip it down, kids only really need a bed and some storage space. Whether it’s for doing homework or drawing fridge-worthy pictures, most kids will also benefit from some sort of table or desk in their room.
All else varies depending on your personal circumstance. If you have a baby, a cot is essential, but if you have pre-adolescents, necessity may come in the form of a gaming chair.
Whatever your predicament, we’ve got kids' bedroom storage ideas and decor inspiration for it all.
Kids bedroom ideas with bunk beds
To kids, a bunk bed isn’t merely a place to sleep – they’re monkey bars, a climbing wall, and even a trampoline. However, to adults, they’re the perfect solution to a bedroom that doesn’t magically grow with the family. Bunk beds are a great small kids' bedroom idea because they also allow room for what matters to children most: playtime. Here are a few ways in which you can brighten up your little ones’ room with bunk beds.
Use a neutral base
In this bedroom the neutral-coloured bunk beds allow the decor to take the spotlight. The white bunks provide free reign to personalise your girls’ or boys’ room as you wish. Here, colourful bed sheets, blue pillows and stools add some character to the room, but don’t forget that these can be swapped out for accessories in any colour scheme!
Consider storage
In a kids bedroom, you can never have too much storage. From sports equipment to school supplies, you’ll need all the shelving, drawers and baskets you can get to stop things from ending up on the floor. This bunk bed comes with built-in shelves and extra space underneath. It also comes with a backboard that can be flipped around to reveal a different colour, making it perfect for growing families.
8 more cool kids bedroom ideas
Collaboration is key when it comes to designing your kids bedroom, and they’ll be much happier with a space they’ve contributed ideas to. Here are some more ways in which to convert your kids’ wildest decor dreams into practical, safe realities.
Space dreamer
There’s no doubt about it - kids love outer space. There’s something about the magic of the stars and galaxies that allows their imaginations to wonder. The blue walls of this bedroom are the backdrop for the star and moon-shaped wall decor elements. Complete this look with space-themed bedding for an added cosmic touch.
Desert living
It’s unique, it’s fresh and it’s girly. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different themes, styles and colours in your child’s bedroom. The desert theme here is made alive by fake cacti, a canopy bed and pink tassels. The addition of a trundle bed will come in handy when your little one starts begging you to have sleepovers.
Blanket forts
If there’s one thing that kids love, it’s blanket forts. Set up a teepee and keep things comfortable with a printed rug, such as this stain-resistant sailing ship rug. Your little ones will love the option of privacy, especially if they’re sharing a room. This room keeps things consistent with animal plush toys and blue storage baskets to keep toys off the floor.
Magical kingdom
A dashing bedroom for your little prince or princess. This medieval-times bedroom will fulfil your kids’ fantasies of living in a world with magic and dragons. There’s ample room for sleeping, storage and play in this room, meeting functionality with frivolity. The green hilly walls tie this design together, giving it a whimsical flair.
Cool and compact
This captain bed has all of your kids' storage needs to be covered. Whether you’re hosting sleepovers every weekend or simply need extra space for various bits and bobs, this sleek bed does it all. Pushed up against a wall, this bed also allows room for your growing child’s hobbies.
Industrial chic
When your little guy grows out of his obsession with Ben 10, it may be time to change up his bedroom. This matching wooden and metal bedroom set provides all of your kids’ sleep, storage and study needs. Tie the room together with grey, black and red accents for a sophisticated touch. Don’t be afraid to incorporate a few textile prints, like this noughts and crosses duvet cover, to keep things cheerful.
Graphic prints
Striking patterns, colourful prints and animals, what more could a kid want? Adding some bold textiles to your kids’ bedroom will both add a fun touch and make things cozier. This fox print rug serves as a statement piece, allowing for the rest of the room decor to be somewhat minimalistic.
Australian outback
Bring nature inside with this delightful camping-themed bedroom idea. Your little scouts will love the tent-shaped bed tree printed pillows, reminding them of the great outdoors. Soften the look with fabric home accessories such as storage baskets, carpets and bunting for a homely feel.
Letting kids be kids
Designing a bedroom that both you and your children will be happy with doesn’t have to be hard work. Take into consideration these design tips, but don’t forget to let your kids put their stamp on the space, even if it’s not what you had in mind originally.
Compromising and striking that balance between your guidance and their imagination will result in a creative space both you and your kids will be proud of. Preferably with everything neatly packed away at the end of the day.
Home decorating is one of life’s simplest pleasures. The opportunity to create a space that’s so uniquely ours should spark joy, but having a vision and executing it well isn’t always as black-and-white as it may seem. But don’t fret, with a little bit of help from us, you’ll be ready to be your own interior decorator andtransform your home into a stylish and personal haven.
Home decorating 101
Before you’re ready to don the painting overalls, you’ll need to understand the basics of home decorating. We’ve compiled a few tips and tricks to get you going on your home decoration journey.
1. Measure, measure, measure
Knowing what you are working with is the first step in decorating any home. Measure both the size of your rooms and any furniture you may already have to create a floorplan and paper cut-outs. Taking the extra time now will help you experiment with furniture placement without having to ask your significant other to try the bed against every wall.
2. Look for inspiration
From Pinterest to interior design magazines to furniture stores, there are thousands of resources available that may help you to narrow down your ideas. Find a few images that you like and compile them into a vision board, and then carefully note any consistencies across them.
3. Make some considerations
When living with others, compromise is essential, and there’s no exception when it comes to decorating. Whether you’ve got a limited budget or strict landlords to factor in, knowing what you can’t do right off the bat will avoid any disappointments down the track. If you’ve got a baby on the way, consider how some decor accents may be a hazard when that baby grows into a curious toddler.
4. Work from big to small
When it comes to picking out decor, you’ll want to start with interior renovations first. Large furniture comes next, chosen to compliment the wall and floor colours. Once you’ve got your essentials in place, you’ll be in a better position to find decor items such as lamps that match what you’ve already got.
20 chic home decor ideas by room
When you’ve got a big task ahead of you, it’s best to break it up into smaller, more digestible tasks. That’s why we’ve broken down our home decor ideas into the many spaces that make up your home. From your home office to your bathroom, we’ve got you covered with decoration inspiration for any style.
Living room decor ideas
1. Decorate the coffee table
If all that’s sitting on your coffee table is a remote and old mug, it’s time for that to change. Books, small indoor plants, decor bowls and paperweights all look great piled up, and won’t restrict the view of your favourite TV show.
2. Introduce pops of colour
Grey couches may be all the rage, but without a textured sage green cushion or terracotta throw, they run the risk of looking a bit sterile. Use the neutral baseboard to have some fun with colour, textures and patterns in your living room.
3. Bring the room to life
Since you’ll be spending a good portion of your time in your living room, you’ll want it to feel uniquely you. What better way to add some personal style to your room than with greenery, vases, floor lamps and sculptures that you’ll enjoy looking at every day.
Bedroom decor ideas
4. Mix and match bedroom textiles
Your bed linen should first and foremost be soft and comfortable, but on the other hand, there’s no harm in having some fun with it. Match a patterned duvet cover with neutral pillowcases and a textured blanket.
5. Make the room relaxing
Your place of rest should feel restful. Opt for mood lighting with some bedside table lamps, and choose soft-coloured linens to create a peaceful atmosphere.
6. Add an interesting headboard
While you should probably avoid neon colours and overstated wallpaper in your bedroom, feel free to really express your style through your headboard.
Bathroom decor ideas
7. Introduce indoor plants
Many varieties of indoor plants, such as ivy’s, ferns and peace lilies, thrive in humid environments and look great against white bathroom walls.
8. Add matte or brass accents
Swap out old bathroom accents such as taps or cabinet knobs with modern and chic brass or matte black hardware. It’s an easy way to modernise an old bathroom.
9. Consider closed storage
If you’re introducing extra storage into your bathroom, make sure your cabinet or drawers have doors. Face, body and hair care products and tools can easily look cluttered when left in the open.
Kitchen decor ideas
10. Embrace quirks
No two kitchens are the same, but no matter what you’re dealing with, lean into the quirks of your space. If you’ve got an unfortunately-coloured countertop, choose kitchen accessories that will complement it, rather than trying to detract attention away (it never works).
11. Choose neutral storage
Whether it’s a pot rack or rolling kitchen island, you’ll need to make considerations for not only space, but also style. Neutral colours will make your space appear more tidy and chic.
12. Upgrade old cabinets
The simplest way to upgrade your kitchen is by giving the cabinets a paint of coat and some new hardware. Matte hardware looks really clean and comes in a range of colours to suit any style.
Home office decor ideas
13. Think practically
Functionality is paramount in a home office. Think about how big of a desk you’ll need, the type of chair and how much storage you’ll require.
14. Warm up the room
Your home office needs to be functional, but given you’ll be spending most of your day in there, it should also feel warm and homely. Picture frames, a bookshelf and even an armchair to unwind in are great additions to this space.
15. Avoid facing walls
Contrary to what most of us are inclined to do, if you have the option, try to avoid facing your desk against a wall. Instead, face your desk toward a window or in the middle of the room to create visual interest.
Hallway decor ideas
16. Double the functionality
If you’re considering adding a console table to your hallway, consider it another opportunity for storage. Choose a model with built-in drawers to store your odds and ends in.
17. Keep it light
By nature, hallways are dark, so when furnishing them, you’ll want to avoid heavy, dark colours. A hall table in a light colour, or even a large mirror, will help to open up the space.
18. Create a gallery
Your hallway is the perfect place for prints, paintings and other wall art. It will encourage you and your guests to slow down and appreciate an area of the house that is often rushed through.
Home entrance decor ideas
19. Make a statement
Make a lasting impression on your friends and family with a portrait of your family, relatives or even your pet pooch directly in the entryway. If portraits aren’t your style, a wall sculpture would also look stylish.
20. Get practical
From shoe cabinets to hooks to benches, there are a number of things that can make your life easier when entering and leaving your home. Mirror your living room decor style for consistency.
Remember to enjoy it
Decorating or redecorating your home shouldn’t be stressful. When deciding on furniture, decor accents and lighting, keep in mind that you’re creating a space that feels comfortable and good for you, not anyone else. We hope that our guide can help you feel inspired and confident in your choices every step of the way on your home decor journey.
Here at LivingStyles, we absolutely adore decorating with rustic and casual country chic inspired furniture. This relaxed yet stylish look works well with so many other interior styles. You might have a completely new modern build with a very simplistic white base interior but adding imperfect, reclaimed timber decor finishes can instantly bring character - it's so versatile!A highlight of working with such accents and furnishings is that you can mix and match and nothing has to look uniformed. This articulates a warm, comfortable and welcoming setting. Celebrate this trending style by incorporating galvanised metals through lighting designs, aged looking timber furniture pieces, earthy braided rugs, neutral colour schemes and warm fabric accessories. Remember to keep it minimal-everything should have a purpose.
