Category Archives: Tips

Discover the best organisational tips, decluttering tips, tips for entertaining, decorating and so much more here at Nunawading Homemaker HQ.

open plan kitchen and dining room for timeless look

How To Achieve a Timeless Look in Your Home

A timeless interior exudes a sense of quiet confidence. It’s sophisticated yet feels inviting. A timeless home is neither over the top or boring. Combining a multi-layered approach, the style balances the feeling of being lived-in and curated. 

In this guide, we look at what makes a home appear timeless. We share with you some of the key things to consider if you’re wanting to achieve a timeless look in your home from colour palettes and furnishings to great reads for inspiration. 

 

Consider your floor plan 

If you are renovating or building a new home, before you settle on your layout, consider an open-plan design. An open-plan living area offers greater flexibility and allows for a seamless transition from one space to the next. It also allows you to decorate in a unified aesthetic across the living, dining and kitchen areas. 

Open-plan interiors work best when you are carrying the flooring, lighting or colour palette throughout all adjoining spaces. You can use materials, colour or furnishings to define a space if you do require visual separation. 

open plan kitchen and dining room for timeless look

SOURCE: HOMELIFE.COM.AU

 

Focus on functionality  

The most successful interiors that withstand the test of time are those that consider the functionality of the home. It may not be glamorous to think about energy efficiency, storage and durable finishes but it will pay dividends to consider these more functional elements as well as those shiny and more beautiful things. 

Timeless interiors are also ones that are scaled perfectly and in proportion. Think about how large or small our rooms are. Consider how well your furniture fits without the space. A well-proportioned interior will have furniture that is neither too large that it crams the room or too small that it seems to get lost. 

 

Be inspired but not bound to interior trends 

Just like fashion, interior trends come and go. If you’re committed to achieving a timeless look in your home, you’ll want to look beyond these trends and focus on styles that last and that you love. Timeless interiors tend to resist the trends and focus on an understated, yet sophisticated, style.  

Don’t rush to purchase furniture, especially big-ticket items, or cover walls in the ‘colour of the year’. Instead, add these trendy colours and materials in accent pieces like tableware, lamps, cushions and bedding. These can be changed more easily when you get tired of the style. 

Sophistication is our speciality at Urban Rhythm. Our Lennox chair is a perfect small addition to a room. 

man in leather armchair

 

Decorate in a classic style

apartment living room with a view to the city skyline

SOURCE: FRESHOME.COM

Timeless interiors decorated in a classic style are both enduring and unpretentious. There’s an order, yet comfort and functionality are at the forefront. 

When creating a timeless feel in your home, consider how your aesthetic works with the architecture of your home. In a classically styled home, you’ll notice mouldings, discreet cornices and window outlines. Materials and furnishing will be of quality and the colour scheme mainly neutrals and light pastels. Velvets, cottons and canvas are some of the most popular fabrics to style within a classic, timeless interior for they are elegant without being too ornate. 

A timeless, classic interior is also well balanced and you’ll find there is a play of symmetry. Rooms will be centered around a focal point such as a fireplace. For example, matching occasional chairs will flank the feature element with a mirror or large artwork above. 

Avoid overly ornate furniture and architectural details and stick with clean, classic lines that won’t date.  

kent two person chair sofa timeless furniture piece kent white armchair sitting chair timeless look

At Urban Rhythm, you can find the classic Kent Sofa and Kent Armchair. The Kent sofa balances luxury with an everyday classic design. Its graceful waterfall arms are of a traditional style, yet its clean lines and simplicity provide a modern aesthetic. 

 

Stick to a neutral colour palette 

bedroom with a neutral colour palette for a timeless look

Photo Source: http://oharainteriors.com/ 

In timeless interiors, neutrals have a strong presence. Opt for a neutral colour palette with splashes of colour and texture to layer in interest.  

Beiges, greys and whites, in particular, have a way of accentuating an interior and creating continuity in an open-plan space. Unlike the 60’s where oranges and browns were on trend and where pastels came into their own in the 80’s, a neutral palette never dates. 

Opting for a neutral palette doesn’t mean you can’t add personality and feeling to a home. Warm whites, for example, create an inviting space and complement an interior that has a lot of texture and natural materials. Cool whites, on the other hand, are great for neutralising spaces that flooded with natural light and work well with those decorating in a minimalist style. 

Timeless interiors aren’t all painted in white though. Cool greys add a sense of glamour and warm greys create a more relaxed feeling. Then there are the navy blues, dark greens and blacks that are often used to complement a neutral palette.    

If you’re keen to add a splash of colour to your timeless home, do so through your decorative elements such as one large item like a buffet. Also rugs, artwork, throws or cushions. Layering colour in small doses will not be too overpowering. 

Try the Alma Buffet from Urban Rhythm for that WOW factor.  

alma buffet

 

Modernise with art and decorative elements 

modern living room decor

Photo Source: www.instagram.com/p/BeNEh_FBV9A/ 

When achieving a timeless look in your home, consider modernising the space with art and other decorative elements. This way, regardless of the period of your architecture or furnishings, your interior will feel classic and current. 

To help connect the artwork with the interior, use complementary colours. Even consider how the medium of the artwork impacts your space. For example, a glossy photograph of a landscape will create a fresh and modern feeling that a traditional oil painting of a landscape wouldn’t. Abstract art is always a good choice to add a modern touch. Try an artwork like Primary to add a modern pop of colour.

 modern art and decorative elements in burnt orange for a timeless look

Layering your interior with some worldly decorative elements can also enrich your interior and reinforce the timeless style. These items can be as small as a bowl on a coffee table or a link sculpture, like the Rufus Marble Sculpture on top of books or a pillow. 

Don’t underestimate a beautiful Australian-Made timber table as a perfect piece of art. Urban Rhythm’s Alpine dining table crafted from Australian Messmate has a natural, country aesthetic combined with a timeless design. It has a beautiful presence and adds to a space with its natural timber features. Paired with sophisticated dining chairs, this table will make a statement without being too ornate. 

alpine dining table

Avoid overcrowding

Editing becomes key when you’re aiming for a timeless interior. Homes of this décor style tend to respect space. There’s room to move and breathe. Furniture isn’t crowded together, and surfaces aren’t cluttered. Fixtures and fittings tend to be streamlined to allow for soft furnishings to take centre stage. Stick with quality over quantity. A well-balanced, yet sparse, room with quality furnishings and materials will present better than an overcrowded interior with poorer quality décor. 

Creating a timeless home comes down to the balance between filling the space and leaving areas open. It’s also a balance between the statement pieces and the clean simple design. 

A few simple, quality pieces can define the room with sophistication and simplicity. Urban Rhythm’s  Elle Round Marble Nested Coffee Tables paired with the Nellie Sofa Range and Jervis Buffet are for those who are seeking a timeless look yet enjoy a sense of luxury. The matt white marble top on the Elle offers a classic look, while the brushed gold (also available in black) frame adds visual interest. Check out our entire range of coffee tables at Urban Rhythm.  

living room sofa

Mix old and new 

Combining finishes, furniture, and features of different eras and styles can help to create a timeless space. That’s because your interior will not dominate a particular period or a design style that may be reminiscent of an old trend. 

Don’t be afraid to mix the old with the new. An antique furniture piece under a modern art piece on a crisp white wall can look incredible and very current. A beautiful old rug under a contemporary sofa of clean lines will create a timeless feel. 

Find the Maison dining chairs at Urban Rhythm. Maison Dining Chairs, Maison Carver Chair, and an Urban Rhythm Australian-made timber table are a great pairing.  Upholstered dining chairs in quality, performance fabrics offer a classic and sophisticated look. They’re also very comfortable. The Maison is an ideal chair for timeless interior mixing clean, classic lines with modern piping detail. Embrace natural materials in your finishes, fixtures and furniture such as timbers, stone, marble, cottons, linens and wool. 

Otway dining table in a timeless dining room setting

It is balance that is the essence of timeless interior design. By embracing timeless designs in your home, you are transcending trends and fads that will become old very quickly. Creating a space that resonates with enduring elegance, classic elements, thoughtful aesthetics, and a touch of personal style, you can curate a space that stands the test of time. Let your home reflect your timeless sophistication, where every detail tells a story, and the ambiance is pure comfort and beauty. 

 

Sourced from Urban Rhythm

warm deep hues cosy bedroom ideas

Embracing Warm, Rich Deep Hues: Creating a Cosy Winter Haven

With Winter’s arrival, it’s the perfect time to infuse your home with warmth and cosiness through the use of rich, deep colours. This interior design trend revolves around embracing warm hues to create a cosy and inviting atmosphere. By incorporating these colours into soft furnishings such as pillows, throws, and rugs, as well as utilising them in statement pieces like armchairs or artwork, you can transform your home into a comforting sanctuary. Let us show you how to incorporate this seasonal trend in your home to brighten up and create a cosy space during the Winter season.

1. Selecting Warm, Rich Deep Colours The first step is to choose a palette of warm, rich deep colours that evoke a sense of comfort. Consider hues such as deep reds, burnt oranges, golden yellows, or even jewel tones like forest green or sapphire blue. These colours create a visual warmth and make a bold statement in your home.

You can always look to decorate a room using one of these colours and then using shades of the same colour in different textures to add depth and interest to the space, rather than making it appear overwhelming.

2. Soft Furnishings: Pillows, Throws, and Rugs Soft furnishings play a significant role in adding warmth and texture to your space. Incorporate pillows, throws, and rugs in warm, deep colours to create a cosy and inviting ambiance. Opt for plush fabrics like velvet, faux fur, or chunky knits for extra comfort.

Arrange pillows in contrasting colours and textures on sofas, chairs, or beds. Drape a chunky knit throw, that you can find at House, over a couch or armchair to provide a sense of warmth and instant cosiness. Place rugs in deep hues beneath furniture or in high-traffic areas to anchor the space and add an extra layer of depth.

3. Statement Pieces: Armchairs and Artwork To make a bold visual impact, consider incorporating a statement piece in one of the warm, deep colours. An armchair in a deep red, burnt orange, or jewel-toned upholstery becomes a focal point in the room, offering both comfort and visual interest. You can find a great selection at Koala Living that are suited to fit any space. This piece can be complemented by coordinating pillows or a throw.

Another way to introduce warm colours is through artwork. Hang a piece of artwork with rich, deep hues on a prominent wall. This not only adds colour to the space but also becomes a conversation starter and a visual centerpiece.

4. Harmonious Colour Combinations While incorporating warm, deep colours, it’s important to create a harmonious colour palette. Consider balancing the rich hues with neutral tones such as cream, beige, or light gray. These neutrals provide a backdrop that allows the warm colours to shine while maintaining a balanced and visually pleasing environment.

You can achieve this through wooden furniture pieces, like a coffee table, bookshelf or buffet which helps to break up the space. Provincial Home Living features a great selection of wooden pieces.

5. Lighting and Accessories Enhance the warmth and cosiness of the space by selecting lighting fixtures and accessories that complement the rich colour palette. Choose warm-toned light bulbs to create a soft and inviting ambiance. Add metallic accents in bronze or copper finishes to provide a touch of luxury and further enhance the warm aesthetic, which you can find at Adairs.

Incorporate additional accessories like decorative vases, candles, or table lamps in complementary warm colours to tie the overall look together.

By embracing warm, rich deep colours, you can transform your home into a cosy Winter haven. Through soft furnishings like pillows, throws, and rugs, as well as statement pieces such as armchairs or artwork, you can infuse your space with warmth and create a visually stunning environment. Remember to balance the rich colours with neutrals and choose lighting and accessories that enhance the overall cosy atmosphere. Embrace the beauty of these colours to brighten up your home and make it a welcoming retreat during the Winter season.

rustic home decor

Creating a Nostalgic and Nature-Inspired Interior Space

The Apothecary design trend embraces a blend of natural materials, vintage accents, and a nostalgic charm to create a cosy and inviting interior space. Inspired by nature and rustic aesthetics, this trend features on earthy colour palettes with deep greens and browns. We’ll show you how to infuse this nostalgic trend into your home by incorporating elements such as natural materials, vintage accents, earthy colours, and wooden furniture.

1. Natural Materials and Rustic Charm Apothecary design emphasises the use of natural materials to create a connection with nature. Incorporate elements such as reclaimed wood, and stone accents to add a rustic touch and enhance the earthy ambiance. A table from Provincial Home Living features a wooden rustic charm that is perfect for any space. These materials evoke a sense of warmth and bring a cosy and inviting atmosphere to your space.

Consider incorporating natural fibres like jute, rattan, or sisal in rugs, baskets, or lampshades. DecoRug has a great selection of jute rugs in different sizes to suit all spaces. These elements add texture and enhance the overall natural aesthetic of the room.

2. Vintage Accents and Nostalgic Touch Vintage accents play a key role in this trend, evoking a sense of nostalgia and charm. Look for antique or vintage-inspired furniture pieces, such as a distressed wooden chest or a vintage apothecary cabinet with multiple drawers, which you can find at Koala Living. These pieces not only provide ample storage but also serve as focal points, adding character and charm to the space.

Display vintage glass bottles, apothecary jars, or old medicine containers on shelves or as decorative pieces. These items not only contribute to the aesthetic but also offer storage for smaller items such as spices or dried herbs.

3. Earthy Colour Palette To enhance the natural and rustic feel of the Apothecary design trend, opt for an earthy colour palette. Deep greens and browns are prominent colours that reflect the beauty of nature. Consider painting accent walls or incorporating these colours through furniture upholstery, cushions, or rugs. You can start with a statement armchair from Urban Rhythm encapsulates the trend perfectly, and serves as a great starting point.

Additionally, muted tones such as warm beiges, and creamy whites can be used as a backdrop to create a harmonious and calming atmosphere. These colours provide a neutral foundation for the other elements to stand out.

4. Wooden Furniture and Storage Solutions Wooden furniture is a cornerstone of this interior design trend, adding warmth and a sense of nature to the space. Invest in sturdy wooden pieces such as a farmhouse-style dining table, that you can find at Focus on Furniture, a rustic wooden desk, or a wooden coffee table. These furniture items not only offer functionality but also contribute to the overall aesthetic.

Emphasise storage and organisation by incorporating furniture with built-in storage options. Look for sideboards, buffets, or shelving units with drawers and compartments, allowing you to keep your space tidy and clutter-free.

5. Elements of Nature Bringing elements of nature into your space helps create a soothing and serene environment. Decorate your space with potted plants, dried flowers, or botanical prints, like our favourites found at Adairs. These natural accents add freshness, colour, and life to the room.

Consider incorporating soft lighting with warm-toned bulbs to create a cosy ambiance. Hang vintage-inspired pendant lights or use table lamps with fabric shades to add a gentle glow that complements the earthy colour palette.

The Apothecary interior design trend blends natural materials, vintage accents, and a sense of nostalgia to create a cosy and inviting interior space. By incorporating these elements, you can transform your home into a warm and rustic haven. Embrace the charm and storage-focused approach of Apothecary design to achieve a space that is both functional and visually appealing, allowing you to relax and connect with the beauty of nature within your own home.

communal space furniture

Creating a Communal Space with Furniture and Décor

In today’s fast-paced world, creating a sense of community within our homes has become increasingly important. By thoughtfully incorporating furniture and decor, we can transform our living spaces into inviting communal areas that foster connection, conversation, and togetherness. Let this seasonal trend show you how specific furniture pieces, natural colour palettes, and clever design choices can contribute to making a space more communal.

1. Choosing Communal Furniture To encourage interaction and conversation, select furniture that promotes face-to-face engagement. Consider incorporating a large dining table, like one from Harbour Lane that features with comfortable seating where family and friends can gather for meals and engaging conversations. A farmhouse-style table, for example, provides a warm and inviting atmosphere conducive to communal dining experiences.

Additionally, modular or sectional sofas offer flexibility and versatility, allowing individuals to sit together comfortably while facilitating group interactions. Focus on Furniture has a wide selection in a range of colours and fabrics to suit all spaces. Arrange the seating in a circular or semi-circular formation to create an inclusive and communal seating arrangement.

2. Embracing Natural Colour Palettes Natural colour palettes play a crucial role in creating a calming and welcoming environment that encourages people to gather and connect. Opt for earthy tones such as warm beige, soft browns, soothing greens, and serene blues. These colours evoke a sense of harmony with nature and provide a relaxed backdrop that enhances social interactions. You can incorporate these colours through soft furnishings like cushions, throws and rugs, which Bed Bath N’ Table has in abundance.

Integrate natural elements like wood, stone, and plants into your furniture and decor choices. Wood furniture pieces, for instance, can add warmth and a touch of nature to communal areas, while plants bring life and freshness to the space.

3. Open Concept Design An open concept design encourages fluidity within your home and allows everyone to be connected. Creating a seamless flow between different areas of the home, enables people to move around and connect effortlessly, especially when having guests over.

Utilise furniture strategically to define spaces within the open concept layout. For instance, a low bookshelf or a console table, that you can find at Urban Rhythm can act as a subtle divider between the living area and the dining space, maintaining an open feel while creating a visual distinction between areas.

4. Functional and Multipurpose Furniture To maximise the communal nature of your space, invest in functional and multipurpose furniture. Consider pieces like storage ottomans, coffee tables with built-in storage, or bookshelves that double as room dividers. These furniture items not only serve their primary purpose but also provide additional functionality, such as hidden storage, which helps maintain an organised and clutter-free environment, adding to the open layout and allowing for movement to flow.

5. Thoughtful Arrangements and Focal Points Arranging furniture with intention can enhance the communal atmosphere. Create conversation zones by arranging seating around a central focal point, such as a fireplace, a cosy rug, or a large coffee table that you can find at Provincial Home Living. This arrangement encourages interaction and makes the space feel more inviting and inclusive.

Incorporating furniture and decor strategically can transform any home into a communal space that nurtures connections and fosters a sense of togetherness. By selecting the right furniture pieces, embracing natural colour palettes, adopting an open concept design, investing in functional furniture, and arranging the space thoughtfully, you can create an environment that encourages social interaction and strengthens the bonds among family members and friends. Remember, a communal home is a space where cherished memories are made, and relationships are nourished.

home office decor

Designing a Productive and Comfortable Home Office

In the era of remote work and digital connectivity, creating a home office that combines comfort, functionality, and productivity has become essential. The Modern Academia interior decor trend draws inspiration from modern aesthetics while incorporating warm wooden furniture, cosy soft furnishings, ample lighting, and inspiring decor elements. This article will guide you through the key elements of the Modern Academia trend to help you design a home office that promotes a productive workflow in a comfortable and stylish environment.

1. Incorporating warm wooden furniture Central to the trend is the use of deep, rich wooden pieces which exudes a sense of sophistication and natural beauty. Opt for a sturdy wooden desk, like one from Provincial Home Living that has ample workspace and storage options, such as built-in drawers or shelves. A solid wood desk not only adds visual appeal but also provides durability and a connection to nature.

Complement the desk with wooden bookshelves or a storage cabinet, like one from Koala Living for organising books, reference materials, and office supplies. The combination of wooden furniture pieces creates a cohesive and timeless aesthetic in your home office.

2. Cosy Soft Furnishings To create a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere in your home office, incorporate soft furnishings that invite relaxation and provide support. Invest in a comfortable and ergonomic office chair that promotes good posture and prevents fatigue during long working hours.

Add plush cushions and throws to your seating area to infuse a cosy ambiance. Consider incorporating a comfortable reading chair or a small sofa, like ones found at Focus on Furniture for moments of relaxation or contemplation, further enhancing the academia-inspired atmosphere.

3. Adequate Lighting Proper lighting is crucial for a productive workspace. Embrace natural light by positioning your desk near a window to benefit from daylight and a connection to the outside world. If natural light is limited, complement it with ambient lighting options, such as a stylish desk lamp or pendant lighting, which you can find plenty of stylish options at Adairs. Consider a focused desk lamp or adjustable spotlights to illuminate your work surface effectively. Layering different types of lighting creates a well-lit and visually appealing home office environment.

4. Inspiring Decor Elements Incorporate inspiring decor elements that reflect you and stimulate creativity and productivity. You can make this a DIY project and find prints that you like to hang on the wall including motivational quotes, inspirational artwork, or framed prints of literary works on the walls. You can even incorporate interesting pieces from Bed Bath N’ Table to add flair to your space. These decorative pieces help to infuse your workspace with individuality.

Integrate a chalkboard or a whiteboard for jotting down ideas, reminders, or creating to-do lists. Additionally, display a collection of books, either as a backdrop for your workspace or on open shelves, to showcase add visual interest.

5. Minimalist and Functional Organisation Maintaining a clutter-free and well-organised workspace is vital for productivity. Embrace minimalist storage solutions such as sleek desk organisers, file cabinets, or wall-mounted shelves to keep your essentials within reach and maintain a clean aesthetic. Be sure to visit Howards Storage World for even more storage solutions.

Invest in functional storage options like boxes, baskets, or magazine holders to neatly store papers, notebooks, and stationery. A clutter-free environment helps reduce distractions and allows for a more focused and efficient workflow.

The Modern Academia interior decor trend combines modern aesthetics with warmth, comfort, and functionality to create a home office conducive to productivity. By incorporating warm wooden furniture, cosy soft furnishings, adequate lighting, and inspiring decor elements, you can design a workspace that reflects sophistication, supporting your work needs, and inspiring a productive workflow. Remember, a well-designed and comfortable home office enhances your focus, creativity, and overall well-being.

organising and decluttering

Storage Solutions for Organising and Decluttering Your Home

Dreaming of an orderly home? Let Homemaker Nunawading help you achieve it with storage solutions for everything from spice racks to linen cupboards. We know that organising and decluttering your home can feel like a big task, especially in spaces like the kitchen and bedroom. But if you follow our tips and approach the task one step at a time, you’ll see major results.

Home organisation is all about creating lasting change by implementing storage that’s easy to maintain and keep clean. So, once you’ve put in all the hard work by following our tips and tricks, you needn’t worry about revisiting another major spring clean anytime soon. Below we share our favourite storage solution ideas, where to purchase them, and bonus hacks for gaining more storage in your home!

Pantry organisation

The pantry is one of the most important spaces in the home that needs specific attention. Creating an effective storage system in your pantry will ensure everything has a home, is put back where it belongs, and will avoid the dreaded build-up. Luckily, there’re a variety of pantry organisation solutions on the market! We recommend starting with a trip to Howards Storage World. Check out their selection of sleek, clear containers – they stack neatly on top of each other allowing you to make use of your whole pantry. You can also add a variety of baskets to group specific categories – think children’s snacks, bulk-food items, pet food, and anything else that doesn’t require the packing to be removed.

Drawer storage

Drawer storage is often overlooked (out of sight, out of mind, as they say) but there’s a plethora of benefits to having neatly organised drawers. Whether it be in your bathroom, home office, kitchen, or bedroom, having clutter-free drawers is essential to creating an organised home and will be so worth it for the long term! Luckily, Howards Storage World has all the products you’ll need. Check out their array of drawer dividers and clear containers ideal for wardrobes, cabinets, and drawers.

organising and decluttering

organising and decluttering

Double-duty furniture

When working with small spaces, having furniture that doubles as storage is super helpful and not to mention incredibly practical. We recommend opting for sofas and beds that have built-in storage underneath them. This space is ideal for storing bulky items such as seasonal clothes, blankets, and cushions. When looking for furniture like bedside tables, coffee tables, and entertainment units be sure to choose pieces that have at least one drawer or cupboard – functional, practical, and if it’s from Homemaker Nunawading it’s bound to be super stylish as well.

Utilise vertical space

Vertical space is often overlooked when thinking of organising and decluttering storage solutions, instead, we always turn our focus on furniture and cupboard space. Why not step out of your comfort zone and consider using your walls as storage and display areas? We recommend adding floating shelves to your kitchen, study, bedroom, or hallway. These will create an additional decorative feature to the space, whilst allowing you to store books and baskets of items amongst home décor pieces for a stunning (and practical) styled look.

If you’re after more inspiration to get you started on your organising and decluttering journey, simply head into Homemaker Nunawading, and browse all the storage products on offer.

how to style a bed

4 Steps to a Pinterest-worthy Bedroom

Interior-designed spaces, there’s a reason we love them! There’s no denying that interior stylists have an uncanny ability to make any space look luxe, inviting, and comfortable (especially when it comes to bedding and bed styling). They certainly know all the tricks of the trade from the latest trend interiors right down to choosing the perfect pillow. But have you ever tried to recreate a perfectly styled bed in your bedroom without the help of a stylist? The outcome is never quite the same. So, here at Homemaker Nunawading HQ, we set out on a mission to uncover the best ways to achieve that effortlessly styled, yet totally Pinterest-worthy bed. The best part? All you have to do is follow the four steps below and your room will look like it’s straight out of a magazine or in your Pinterest board in no time.

Step one: what lies beneath matters

A luxurious bedroom starts with a comfortable mattress. We’re talking about the type that with just one glance you’re already subconsciously sinking into. But if you’re not quite ready to replace your mattress then opt for a mattress topper instead. Mattress toppers are a great (and affordable) solution to add the comfort you need for a good night’s sleep whilst also helping contribute to the overall plush look synonymous with a Pinterest-worthy bedroom.

Secondly, mattress and pillow protectors are a must all year round, particularly as our weather warms up. We recommend opting for a bamboo material because it’s naturally antimicrobial, breathable, and thermal regulating. You can find a variety of options from Bed Bath N’ Table.

how to style a bed

trend interiors

Step two: invest in quality sheets

Quality sheets are the hug you didn’t know you needed! Sheets not only feel great but when you purchase the right set, they’re bound to last throughout the seasons. We recommend steering clear from plain white sheets and going for a fun colour and pattern instead. Pair your bold sheets with a plain coverlet for a playful contrast that will suit any room. For those who are not a fan of ironing, we hear you! Try linen sheets from Adairs to achieve that unmade bed look that interior stylists always master.

Step three: choose the right bed cover

It’s time to roll away the heavy feather duvet and embrace a lightweight coverlet. This lighter counterpart to a duvet is cooler in the warmer weather but is still heavy enough for those who love being snuggled under a blanket. For neutral lovers, embrace a textured coverlet or quilt cover, this will add a subtle touch of luxury to your bedding. If you really want to lean into that luxury look, buy a size up in your coverlet or quilt – allowing the edge of your bedding to touch the floor.

Step four: layers and textures are a must

Finally, the ultimate way to achieve that Pinterest-worthy bedroom is with layers and textures! What better way to add more texture to your room than with throws and cushions? They’re always making an appearance on trend interiors lists. So, here’s how you can use them:

Throws

  1. Enhance your bedding by casually draping a lightweight throw at the foot of your bed.
  2. Avoid being too meticulous in its arrangement to achieve a more relaxed and inviting look.
  3. Add visual intrigue to a plain knit throw by opting for one with tassels.
  4. For a laid-back luxurious appearance consider a 100% cotton throw with raw edging

Throw cushions

You either love them or hate them, but cushions are here to stay – having become a staple in trend interiors! To create a luxurious and comfortable look be sure to mix and match cushions in similar tones and various textures. Whether you choose velvets or linens, a mix of both is sure to create a visually pleasing vignette. We recommend cushions with feather fillings to provide a plush and inviting feel.

Voila, you now have your own bedroom that looks like it came straight from a Pinterest board! No need to search “interior stylist near me,” instead follow our guide and head to Homemaker Nunawading for all your necessities! Once you’ve stocked up at all the furniture stores in Nunawading, be sure to share your new bedroom with us on Instagram – we’d love to reshare it! Don’t forget to tag us @nunawading_homemaker_hq.

6 Tips For Adding Texture To Your Living Room

For those of you who have downloaded and browsed through our Autumn Trends Report you will have noted that a huge trend for this season is ‘Texture on Texture’. This is a trend we are super excited about as it evokes a variety of senses through the use of touch and creating visual interest. Today we are sharing with you how to incorporate texture into your living room and create a cosy and welcoming space. We believe there are six key areas for where you can introduce texture in the living room, and we can’t wait to share them with you!

 

Cushions And Throws

This is the most obvious one, so we thought we would kick it off with an aspect you may already be familiar with. The easiest and arguably the most effective way to add texture in the living room is to opt for cushions and throw rugs in a variety of different materials. For autumn we are seeing fabrics such as thick linen, plush faux fur, and boucle in stores such as Adairs and Bed Bath N Table. We recommend choosing a mixture of textures and finishes to create a layered and cosy look. When it comes to autumn and winter decorating, the more the merrier is usually advised for cushions and throw blankets to create a comfortable and snuggly living room.

Statement Furniture

Furniture is an unexpected aspect of your living room where you can play with different textures and be adventurous. If you want to embrace the ‘texture on texture’ trend we love the look of a statement armchair in a boucle or linen fabric that creates the ultimate wow factor. A key trend for autumn is using these fabrics in muted tones such as soft blush, muddy green, or a creamy ivory. If you can’t commit to a furniture piece of this size, then we recommend dipping your toes in by opting for a textured ottoman or pouffe. Head into Adairs and Koala Living to see their gorgeous range of boucle armchairs and ottomans today!

 

Rugs

Rugs can be one of the simplest ways to add texture to a living room as they are just one piece, that makes a huge impact. When selecting a rug, we recommend choosing a large size that allows most furniture items to sit comfortably on top of the rug. For a coastal or Scandinavian style interior we love using jute or flatweave rugs to incorporate texture and add a natural touch. For a contemporary or Hamptons interior design style, we suggest choosing a luxurious fabric that feels soft underfoot such as a wool or silk blend. Our friendly staff at Decorug are here to assist you in finding the perfect rug for your living room, be sure to check them out on your next visit.

 

 

 

Coffee Table Styling

Texture can be created visually by using sculptural and natural elements and styled in an eye-catching way. Create visual interest on your coffee table by grouping a selection of home décor pieces in a beautiful rattan or wicker tray. Add in a vase filled with textural stems and blooms and finish by adding natural stone coasters and an autumn scented candle. If you are looking for some inspiration when it comes to creating a textured coffee table vignette, we recommend popping into some of our furniture and home décor retailers to spark your creativity.

 

 

Artwork

Artwork is another clever way to incorporate texture and visual interest in a living room. Not only does a beautiful artwork create wow factor and add depth to a room, but it also allows you to blend the pieces of the room together through the use of colour and texture. We love choosing artworks in muted and soft tones to ensure the textures of the painting shine through. Think soft washes of nude tones blended with mauve or taupe when creating a cosy space for autumn. Use timber frames to add another textural element and avoid any high gloss glass or metallic finishes for a more natural look.

 

Timber And Rattan

Timber and rattan furniture and home décor pieces have been growing in popularity the past few years and we are seeing new styles being released each and every season. Timber is a classic material that works with every interior design style to bring warmth and texture to a space. We love natural timber coffee tables and side tables when designing a living room to offset against the soft fabrics in the space. Rattan is the perfect textural material and is popular in furniture and home decorating pieces such as armchairs, coffee tables, lamp shades and trays. Head into Adairs to see their beautiful range of rattan pieces or pop into Focus On Furniture or Koala Living to view their gorgeous timber pieces.

 

 

Incorporating Muted Tones When Designing A Bedroom

Using muted tones when designing a bedroom creates a tranquil and calming space. Our lives are so busy, and we are under what feels like constant stress, so it is essential that we create a calming environment for where we rest our heads at night. Muted tones are a huge trend this autumn and we are seeing them be particularly popular within bedroom design. Inspired by nature and organic elements, in today’s post we are sharing how you can incorporate these into your bedroom space to create the ultimate retreat.

The Colour Palette

When thinking about the colour palette for a bedroom using muted tones, it is important to think back to nature and natural colours. We recommend using a base colour palette of soft white, light beige and warm grey in your larger furniture pieces and decorative furnishings such as the bed linen. These will create a soothing and calming backdrop for any muted colours to pop against. Next, you can add soft furnishings and decorative accessories in colours such as sage green, blush pink or a muted brown to bring life through in a subtle way. Head into stores such as Provincial Home Living and Koala Living to see how they have used a muted toned colour palette in their displays.

Decorating With Muted Tones

Our biggest tip when designing a bedroom space is to keep the large furniture pieces such as the bed, bedside tables, chest of drawers and occasional chairs in a neutral tone. This then allows you to inject some colour in a subtle way through the use of soft furnishings. Soft furnishings can include items such as cushions, blankets, throws, curtains, and rugs. We love using warm muted tones for the curtains and rugs for example creamy white, light beige, warm grey or soft brown. Cushions and throw blankets are where you can have fun with colour in a soothing way and use tones of soft green, blue or pink to inject personality. We love the gorgeous range of soft furnishings on offer at Bed Bath n Table and Adairs and be sure to head into Deco Rug to view their amazing rug options too.

Using Texture

When decorating and designing with a muted colour palette it is important to create interest through using texture. Natural and lightweight fibres are perfect to incorporate with this design style as they pair perfectly with the colour palette suggested. Use fabrics such as wool, textured cotton and linen for your bed linen and upholstered furniture pieces such as bed heads, ottomans, and occasional chairs. We recommend embracing texture when selecting your cushions and throw blankets and choosing items with a beautiful, soft fibre for a natural look. Provincial Home Living offer a wide range of furniture and home decorative accessories that use natural textures and finishes. We love their range of armchairs, rugs, and cushions in particular.

Setting The Tone For The Space

Once you have selected all your furniture and home décor pieces and your colour palette of muted tones is in check, then comes setting the tone for the space. This is the finishing element of a bedroom design and must not be forgotten when creating a tranquil and calming oasis. Finishing touches include ensuring you have a beautiful fragrance on hand through the use of candles and room sprays. We recommend going for a natural scent such as sage, cedarwood, jasmine or bergamot. You can pick up some beautiful home fragrances from retailers such as Adairs and Bed Bath N Table. Next, is to make sure the lighting in your bedroom is calming and allows for a soft and muted effect. We love using beautiful bedside table lamps or floor lamps for ambient lighting instead of the main downlights of an evening. It is also a great idea to install a dimmer to your bedroom, so you can adjust the lighting to suit your every need.

This Autumn at Nunawading Homemaker HQ we are embracing muted tones and creating calming spaces in your home. Make sure to head in store and view the beautiful range of furniture and homewares options on offer. You can also speak to our friendly staff to see how you can incorporate muted tones into your bedroom today!

The Best Practical Styling Advice For Your Home

Your home is not just where you live, but it is a place to relax, to entertain, to build memories and even to work (thanks COVID). This focus on our homes means that it’s now more important than ever to create a space that is not only multifunctional and practical but stylish and beautiful too. An area that makes us feel comfortable, but also makes us happy to spend time there.

One of the easiest ways to change the feel of your home is with styling. We’ve put together a list of practical styling advice that you can use when decorating or designing your home.

Finding the right furniture

Furniture is probably the easiest place to start when styling your home. It’s also one of the most important because the type of furniture you choose can dictate how you use the room, and the style of furniture will dictate the style of the room too.

When buying furniture for a space, measure twice and buy once! Furniture that is too big will impact how you use your room and will make it feel small, but furniture that is too small will make the room look unfinished.

Also, consider choosing furniture that is timeless and won’t date. Trends come and go, but good quality furniture that is simple but classic means that you can enjoy it for years to come, only needing to update the décor around your furniture to suit the latest styling trends.

When it comes to furniture, it’s always good to try before you buy so you can make sure you’re comfortable and it fits its purpose. Sit on dining chairs to see if they are the right height, lay on a bed to see if it’s big enough and look inside wardrobes to see if there is enough storage space.

Styling soft furnishings

A great way to change up the style of your home is with soft furnishings like throws, cushions and bedding. Easily changed and updated, use soft furnishings to dress up your room or refresh a tired space.

The trick to styling cushions is to consider pattern, texture, shape and colour, and layering them up to pull the look together. Pick a colour palette and then choose your soft furnishings with those colours in mind, mixing and matching textures and styles as you go.

The same goes for throws and bedding. While these don’t need to match each other, or your cushions, they should at least be complementary and be part of the same colour palette to create a cohesive room.

You can update your soft furnishings to suit the season. Florals are fantastic for spring and summer, while moody colours like plum and emerald green are best suited for Autumn and Winter. Also, think about colour combinations that work well together. We love blush pink and olive green, neutrals and burnt oranges or black and white with a pop of colour.

Choosing artwork for your home

There are lots to consider when choosing artwork for your home. While it can be an investment, you should think with your heart when choosing the right piece. Spend lots of time viewing different artists and note down artwork that grabs your attention. You may find you like abstract art more than realism, or you want a simple illustration rather than a splash of colours.

You should also think about the colour palette of your room when selecting artwork. As a general rule, you shouldn’t reference more than four different colours in your room, so look at paintings with similar colours to your wall colours or soft furnishings or neutral colours that won’t be too harsh in an already colourful space.

Also, think about sizing and placement. Always measure your space before you buy artwork and even consider using paper or masking tape to mirror the size of the piece on your wall. Oversized artworks (1m wide or more) will act as a focal point in your room while smaller artworks can be grouped together for the same effect.

Upgrading your lights

Changing the lighting in your home can give it an instant makeover. Even if your room has downlights, adding feature lighting like a pendant, wall light or floor lamp will provide you with more illumination and act as a feature for the room.

When placing lighting, you should measure your room to ensure it isn’t impeding on your space but will still provide the light you need for the purpose of the room. Pendant lights in a living room should be hung 30-50cm from the ceiling (on a standard 2.4m ceiling) while pendant lights over a dining table should sit 70-80cm above the dining table. If you’re choosing pendant lights over your bedside tables rather than table lamps, make sure they hang 35-50cm above so you get enough light for reading a book, but they don’t get in the way.

Floor lamps and table lamps can be added to your room if you don’t want something permanent. You can change the shade to complement the style of your room and move them around to create cosy reading corners or stylish décor displays.

Adding decorative accessories

We love using home décor accessories to style a room because although they may be small, they have the power to change the look and feel of a room in an instant! Think vases, candles, pot plants, baskets, mirrors and trinkets that can be placed on shelves, coffee tables, side tables and any surface that is bare.

When decorating with accessories, be careful not to overload the space. Group accessories with similar themes and varying heights to create beautiful displays and choose quality over quantity! Group items in odd numbers such as threes or fives so that your arrangement feels authentic and not too staged.

Plants add life to every room, so play around with different types of plants. A large Ficus Fig or Rubber plant in a statement pot will act as a feature, while succulents or a string of pearls will complement a smaller space. If you want more colourful plants, you can’t go wrong with an orchid or two. If you don’t have a green thumb, you can always use faux plants instead – don’t worry, we won’t tell!

Decorating with rugs

Rugs are often thought of as entirely functional, used to hide undesirable flooring or prevent furniture scratches, but you’d be surprised at how much a rug contributes to the style of a room, often tying the entire space together.

When choosing a rug, think about your lifestyle and the area where it will be placed. High traffic areas will need a hard-wearing material like sisal, jute or seagrass, while bedrooms won’t receive so much foot-traffic so tufted or shag rugs are suitable. You should also consider how easy your rug will be to clean, especially if you have children or pets.

When deciding on the best size, it is a general rule that part of your furniture should overlap the rug so that the space flows. Rugs under dining tables should be large enough so the dining chairs don’t come off the rug when being used and a rug in a bedroom should be positioned from the bottom 2/3 of the bed and extended out to the sides and end.

Play around with patterns and colours. If you already have a lot of features in your room, choose a neutral rug that won’t draw the attention away from those pieces. To avoid a clash, pick out a secondary colour in your rug and match it with a piece of furniture or the soft furnishings in the room.

Want to see your home styling come together? Check out our new Digital Mood Board Tool! You’ll be able to mix and match products to create a mock set up of your space while exploring different styles and colour palettes from the retailers at Nunawading Homemaker HQ. It’s free, and you can share your mood board with family, friends or design experts to get their opinions on your styling.

With over 25 stores, you can find everything you need to style your home at Nunawading Homemaker HQ. Shop from the best homewares, tech and furniture brands like Adairs, Bay Leather Republic, JBHiFi and more. If you’re looking to style your home from scratch, give your home a makeover or want to browse our wide range of stores, visit Nunawading Homemaker HQ today!