As October arrives in haste, with it comes darker nights, and it is during this time, when it feels great to snuggle up at home with a cup of cocoa, draw the curtains, switch on the fire and settle down with a good book or movie.

Dressing a cottage to look cosy and comfortable is vital for that perfect winter evening, and also important because you don’t want to ruin the style and character by bringing in modern furniture & doing so, will disrupt the status quo. When dressing a cottage to look cosy, think of deep oak wood surfaces, deep shades of colour and lots of textures in the form of throws and cushions, as opposed to glass surfaces, white walls, and a bare minimum style.

Here are the secrets you need to create a warm, welcoming cosy cottage: 

Earthy woody colours are made for cosy cottages

Traditional country cottages are decked in natural, earthy colours and are generally in several shades of warm browns. Often the palette for other parts of the house range from sage and spring greens, pale yellows and duck-egg blues, and quite often these are found in cottage kitchens and bathrooms.

Floors are almost always kept to a natural state, so are often thick oak wooden floorboards or stonework. If you want to add cosiness to the floor, opt for a gorgeous neutral toned rug which will provide a softer surface to walk on.

Invest in some traditional oak furniture for your cosy cottage

The furniture used to decorate traditional country cottages has bags of character and can be mismatched to create a lived-in earthy look.

Warm coloured oak wood is a country cottage essential. Oak Dressers, oak cabinets and oak dining tables look particularly good in cottages, when made from wood with a warm tone, and can help to add extra cosiness to rooms too.

Oak furniture is a homely, stylish and rich decoration solution for any home, especially if you are looking to create a warm cosy feel. Oak has been used in furniture manufacture for centuries; it is one the most durable wood types, meaning your piece of handcrafted furniture will last a lifetime.

When you are buying oak wood furniture for your cosy cottage, think about the shade of your furniture – as you can get light yellow, darker or light brown shades in oak depending on the way the wood has been conditioned or treated. There are also numerous patterns available in oak that will fit with your interior tastes so take a look at a few different items before deciding on what you want to buy.  

Any room can be made over with an earthy oak wood feel – such as in the kitchen, you could replace the standard splash-back kitchen worktop counters with traditional oak counters. Wooden counters add an instant sense of warmth to your kitchen that can’t be achieved by any other countertop material.

Or if you are looking to cosy up your bedroom style, invest in an intricately carved wooden bed frame as the centrepiece of the room. And in your living room, an oak cabinet, side tables and shelves can really add character to the place. The possibilities are endless when it comes to decorating your home with oak.

Throws and blankets in different textures and patterns

Lounging in a relaxing way is important in your home, and that’s why we all love cushions, footstools and throws so much. Provide yourself and your guests a comfortable area to snuggle up, with a range of blankets, throws and quilts that can be accessed with ease. Achieve an effortless look by displaying two or three types of throws or blankets in different textures draped over a cosy armchair. Alternatively, you could store your blankets in a beautiful oak furniture blanket box like this one.

Follow our guidelines for creating the perfect cosy cottage, and furnish your home with warm and natural tones of finely crafted or antiqued oak furniture, use warm tones for your rugs, throws and cushions and ensure you have the fire on to ramp up the cosiness.

Your oak furniture is built to last and look good and, thanks to the natural beauty of the grain, it's easy to enhance its comfort with any style of soft furnishing accessory you like. Let's take a look at fabrics for cushions and throws in this year's trending fabrics.

On trend colours for your home furnishings

Almost everyone, including Vogue, says that green is big this year, as are tropical prints. Very dark inky blue is also a favourite for walls this season, especially matched with brilliant white woodwork and accessories.

Speaking of accessories, many home décor experts talk about metallics, especially copper, being the epitome of the must-have when you're buying a table lamp, so for some individuality why not hack the trend and choose shiny fabrics for your cushions and throws.

If you're a dedicated follower of fashion and like to experiment too, mixing prints and designs in any colour is in too, in particular petite floral designs. Even if you're a novice at matching up different prints within the same room, don't worry: being adventurous seems to be the idea. Oak furniture that has a warm, wax-lacquered grain like the Eklund Oak range looks good matched with almost anything, from plain to patterned and floral.

Throws generally tend to be rectangular, with the largest types you can lose yourself in coming in at around 2m in length (good for keeping handy on cooler autumn nights). On the other hand, cushions come in a whole range of shapes and sizes. Novelty shapes like donuts and hearts are fun for kids. Traditional styles like squares and bolsters (the long cylindrical shapes) look classy and, more often then not, are the most comfortable and will probably look better for longer.

If you like to make your own covers and throws and have spare fabric, you might make matching table mats and runners, cushions for your dining chairs, or cover a footstool.

For comfort and sheer indulgence, faux fur will always be best. It never seems to go out of fashion either and it's available in all colours, pile types and designs – including animal prints (which also never seems to lose popularity). Fur and fleecy throws are very Hygge, which some designers are suggesting is very much last year. But if you really want luxury you might choose velvet, which is another timeless classic and a perfect accompaniment to the grandeur of oak furniture.

Whether your study or home office is your bedroom, a box room, an attic conversion or even on the upstairs landing, we know a few tricks to help you turn it into a space that works for you.

Assess your space – and your home working or study habits. All spaces, small or spacious, have positives and negatives. Even if you're working with a tiny space, like a corner space or a nook, you can still have everything you need, as well as some of what you want.

Is there ample light and fresh air? Will people be bumping past your chair? Do you need surfaces to spread papers? How much leg room will be enough? Where will you keep your books, notepads and pens? How many plug sockets do you need nearby? Would a pinboard be useful? Do you prefer to sit at a desk, or with your laptop on a tray on your knee?

Do you mind if your study area looks like a home office, or would you like a relaxed, attractive area that looks fully integrated into your home's style? And finally, are you looking for a fresh, modern plastic finish or do you want to invest into something that will last for years, like oak furniture?

For the purposes of these tips, we'll mostly assume you want to study at a desk and you like the idea of the furniture blending into your home's style. If you prefer to work on the couch or easy chair, with your laptop on a tray on your lap, don't forget incidentals like lamp tables, a coffee table or a nest of tables. These can be very useful, if only for your cuppa!

Dining tables are versatile – you get a lot of space to spread out (essential if you're a creative type) and you can choose from a wide range of sizes and finishes. The Cube range is a fine example: pieces designed to help you use space cleverly, like dining tables 90cm and 160cm in length. The style of this range also lends itself to practicality while looking good: it has smart, simple lines and its soft lacquer finish is hard-wearing.

If you're looking for something more compact but still want to sit at a table, the Cube Oak range includes a stunning petite console table. This has enough space to get your legs under, while not taking up too much floor space.

Cube offers a choice of shelving to help you organise your essentials. Bookshelves come in all shapes and sizes, so you could easily fit the compact Slim Jim into your study area. If you have the luxury of more space, you might be interested in a wider open bookshelf style.

Why not check out the full Cube Oak furniture range for all the possibilities. Because Cube has such crisp lines and a light, warm veneer, it can accommodate all the desk accessories you need without looking cluttered, busy or untidy.

If your idea of buying furniture is to buy items to last a life time, and to ensure they don’t go out of style fast, then you can absolutely achieve this wish, by ensuring you buy some of the recommendations we make for buying timeless home furnishings and accessories.

Have you ever looked through a magazine from another age and thought to yourself that you could be looking at something from today? Why do some homes look old-fashioned and weary while others always look fresh and contemporary?

You might try a hot, summery Pink Yarrow, or an ageless neutral like Pale Dogwood, depending on your room, or a pairing of both on walls and windows.

To achieve a timeless look in your living room, opt for a warm shade of wood as your central theme for furniture. The homely qualities and usual patterns of traditional oak furniture, as well as the way it lends itself to be painted, upcycled or made to look completely different, will allow for most items in the oak furniture range to be timeless.

You can invest in a gorgeous wooden coffee table, which will last years to come, and set the character of the living room as warm and cosy.

Pair that with an arrangement of botanicas, from willowy plants to little bouquets of flowers and your room will look fresh and modern, yet pleasing to the eye.

To create a room that is ageless try to avoid large poufy couches as well as those which appear to be overly modernised. Timeless design, also avoids sofas in overly quirky pattern, shapes and spaces. When it comes to this aspect of your living room or lounge, less is often more.

When you are choosing art deco for the rooms, you will do well to keep things simple once again. Art deco was popular from the 20s through to the 40s and is a modern style focusing on linear design and durable bold colours. It has seen a revival in popularity in modern designs as well. This style works exceptionally with clean clear silhouettes of oak furniture.

Timeless design is an easy one to achieve. Your background should be neutral, and not busy. Highlight clean lines and shapes and your home’s natural architectural details. Add classic colours such as dark green, navy and black as they balance the neutrals very well. Invest in a few pieces of solid oak furniture.

If you find it hard to choose between traditional (even rustic) and contemporary décor, remember: it's possible to encourage both styles to live together in harmony. Here are a few tried and tested ideas.

The warm tones and natural patterns of traditional oak furniture, as well as the bold, squared-off silhouettes of the Rustic Oak design, will complement the most modern of colour schemes. The shortlist for Pantone's Colour of the Year included some very bold hues, some of which hark back to a traditional palette while others look distinctly 2017.

You might try a hot, summery Pink Yarrow, or an ageless neutral like Pale Dogwood, depending on your room, or a pairing of both on walls and windows.

Once you've decided on a colour scheme that captures your mood – in this case, a mix of warm wood and fresh colour – consider your accessories. The Scandinavian lived-in look is still in, which gives you an ideal opportunity to utilise (and even update) your book collection. Stack ratty-cornered paperbacks with glossy coffee table publications and famous hard-back editions of milestone novels and poems from the last couple of centuries.

Quirky lighting is in; Vogue suggests choosing something "memorable". A larger contemporary lamp could be displayed on a sideboard or table as a feature piece or to transform a dark corner. Geometric shapes are on trend too: bear this in mind when choosing your mirrors, rugs and cushions. Rustic oak furniture is very geometrical, which can be enhanced by symmetrical patterns or softened by throws and cloths, depending on your tastes.

If you don't feel completely comfortable mixing up-to-the-minute trends with rustic styles, Victorian designers have offered us a perfect compromise: the industrial look. It's particularly effective in dining rooms or kitchen-diners, and easily achieved through replica vintage lighting and other period metallic accessories like pans and trivets.

You could also check out the stunning faux Victorian tiles around at the moment, which are very colourful and provide a dramatic, colourful, high-gloss juxtaposition to the lovely warm tones of a Rustic Oak furniture range.

While there's sometimes a risk of rain, there's no doubt British summers can be magnificent. Rich greens and florals, swaying textures and rich sunshine are right around the corner, if they haven't arrived already. So it's the perfect time to make the most of the summer mood by dressing your rooms, whether you're setting the scene for family entertaining or lazy days.

Tropical and other wallpaper designs inspired by nature are right on trend this summer. And while tropical designs will give you a feel for foreign climes, heritage wallcoverings are distinctly English.

Modern and period homes alike will be complemented by these elaborate patterns, though if you have an older property you might try a heritage wallpaper based on original archive designs.

Nature-inspired designs bring a charming backdrop to your rooms. However, if you don't want to change the whole room in this way, try accessorising with cushions and curtains. These patterns can be intricate though, so beware of making your rooms look too busy by mixing them with others. The heritage designs look especially good alongside furniture in a traditional design, like our Barham Oak range, while the tropical designs would look good against a more modern style of oak furniture.

Green is a popular colour with interior designers this year and summer offers us plenty of inspiration, from the paler colours of unfurling leaves to the deeper hues of mature trees and grass. You really can't go wrong with any shade.

It's particularly lovely for this season, as it helps to bring the outdoors indoors. For a vibrant look, accessorise with bold shades of orange, red or coral. For a cooler look, try paler highlights. In north facing rooms, and if you like metallic details, select lamps and other items in warm bronze or brass that will reflect sunlight.

And if you really want to bring the outside inside, colourful flower displays and wood textures are classic must-haves. Top interior designers are using logs as accessories this year – it's more practical, and just as effective, to make the most of the natural texture and shading of your oak furniture.

Try swapping out your heavy winter rugs for more delicate styles with a lighter texture. Materials like Jute and Seagrass can give a summerhouse feel in neutral shades, or you could go for a manmade fibre flatweave – these have a greater colour range to choose from.

Colour wise, you can use your rug to create a blaze across a room that has been painted in neutrals, or pick out an accent colour from your wallpaper. If you're lucky enough to have cooling terracotta tiles – for example in your kitchen or hallway – a kitchen rub or a hallway runner is a must if you want to highlight contrasting textures. The same goes for wooden and laminate flooring.

Accessories aside, if you're thinking of completely refreshing a room for summer – like your living room, for example – it's easier on your pocket if you choose a style of furniture that will look good all year round. Oak furniture is versatile – a classic wood that looks fabulous across all ranges and in all finishes, from wax to lacquer.

The average Victorian home has a lot going for it: high ceilings, lots of natural light and – if you're lucky – some original period features. One issue owners of Victorian homes have is updating the look without losing their charm. Just because you own an old house, you don't have to stick to tradition. It's okay to update the rules on period furnishings. Oak furniture, with its reliable timelessness, is perfect for creating a classical yet modern look in your period home.

You don't need to let your dining room be dominated by a bulky table and chairs. Modern dining sets in oak have a more refined silhouette, in keeping with the sleek contemporary look favoured by interior designers. See what these designers achieved in their Georgian home – though you don't have to go as ultra-modern as they did.

For example, the Hayman Oak furniture range includes a dining set in a simple, unfussy style inspired by Shaker. The table opens out to admit up to eight diners comfortably, yet with its rounded corners and tapered legs it doesn't take over your living space. Another contemporary example is the Cube Oak dining table: an understated, minimalist centrepiece to one of your busiest rooms.

If you have a larger Victorian home, your dining room will probably also have space for an oak sideboard. These are handy for storing your best dinner plates and glasses, and can be used set out a buffet, desserts or drinks when you have a special occasion. They are not the bulky pieces from yesteryear – they come in all lengths and different widths, so you can make the most of your floorspace and the extra storage they offer.

The Hayman Oak Winerack Sideboard is a flexible, contemporary piece that complements the other oak furniture in the range. There are many other styles too, like the Constance Oak Large Sideboard, which has a hardwearing, light wood finish and clean lines.

Another key feature piece of oak furniture that we recommend is a good coffee table. Depending on their size, they can be used to display books, photos, flowers and anything else you fancy. As an essential addition to your living room, a coffee table can be small and high or long and low.

The Shaker-inspired Hayman Oak range has a small, high coffee table in a light-coloured wood, ideal for placement beside your sofa. On the other end of the scale, the Scandinavian Eklund range offers to bring functional elegance to the centre of your living area. Scandinavian styling is still very on-trend in 2017, and the shelf beneath could be accessorised with books or used to store your latest hygge knitting project.

If your living room is small, a nest of tables might be more useful to you. The Victorians liked to use small tables to display items including pieces of art like vases and figurines, and leafy plants.

Because you're updating the look of your period home, you might also want to consider different kinds of oak furniture like TV cabinets, and CD and DVD units. If you find yourself struggling for inspiration, it might also help to explore the original Victorian style like this example, and substituting contemporary pieces from these ranges.

Do you like a tidy bookshelf – or would a casual look suit you more? If an organised A-Z of authors and titles turns you cold, here are some tips on how to create an artistic ambiance in your living room.

Choose your books well

Solid, well-built oak furniture is classy so you can afford to let your imagination roam without it looking messy. Choose shabby second hand books, pristine special editions and copies signed by the author. Choose books you love – from Pride and Prejudice to Game of Thrones. It's okay to have an eclectic mix, so these two genres would be great placed side by side. And here's a secret – we all have impressive books on our shelves we've never opened. If you want your friends to think you're well-read, stock up on some pre-owned classics!

Arrange in blocks, both vertically and horizontally. You might even lay a couple on top here and there, within easy reach if you get a quiet half-hour to yourself. An alternative way to arrange your books is to colour-code them so your shelves look like a rainbow.

Select ornaments, accessories and lighting

If your bookshelf is a from a Scandinavian oak furniture range, you might consider creating a hygge look with your accessories. Hygge is a Danish trend that exudes timelessness, comfort and style. To achieve this look, choose natural materials (no plastics), a muted colour palette and retro or reproduction items. As well as hygge, other on-trend accessories this year include climbing plants and butterflies.

Try softening the sharp edges made by your shelves and books by butting other items up to them: a soft toy from your childhood, a curved photo frame, a bowl of dried roseheads or a candle enclosed in a lantern. Speaking of lighting, if you don't like the thought of using candles near your precious books, there are many different types of electric or battery-powered lights you can choose from. Try strings of tiny LED lights, which you can stretch across the shelves, lay on top of the books themselves, or clustered in a glass vase. These pretty and powerful points of light will create interesting shadows and patterns on the wood grain of your oak furniture and on your books.

Minimise The Dust

One potential downside of a creative, loosely organised bookshelf is keeping it clean. Some oak furniture ranges include bookshelves with glass-fronted doors. These will keep the majority of dust out for longer, as well as keeping sticky fingers off your books and ornaments. Glass doors can also help to frame the look you've created. Take a look at this example, a Hayman oak glazed bookshelf, which also has a handy under-drawer (ideal for storing game controllers, remote controls and spare batteries).

If you don't mind an open shelf, the best way to keep it clean is to dust lightly on a weekly basis. If you keep on top of the dust, you'll only have to empty the shelves for a full wipe-down every couple of months. A feather duster or microfibre cloth will be gentle on your oak furniture, your books and your ornaments.

Ultimately, while oak furniture has plenty of personality, it also has the ability to be whatever you want it to be. So whether you choose a bookshelf that is long, narrow, tall or small, it's the ideal blank canvas to let your imagination run wild. What do you think you could do with these bookshelves?

Buying a new wardrobe is the beginning of a beautiful working relationship. In fact, aside from your bed, it's the most important piece of oak bedroom furniture you'll own. Here are some important things to consider before you make your final choice.

What size do you need it to be?

If you're sharing a wardrobe, have a lot of clothes, or you'd like to store your winter and summer clothes together, you will probably need a three-door wardrobe. On the other hand, if you're not sharing and you tend to throw an old garment out when you buy a new one, you might comfortably manage a two-door or even a single wardrobe.

Don't guess on size – measure your space carefully so you can make the most of it. A roomier style means your clothes will hang straight and benefit from good air circulation, so they'll always smell fresh. Also, be kind to your evening gowns and choose a wardrobe that's tall enough to keep your hems off the floor.

Also measure your stairs and landing, and assess any awkward turns. Larger items can be assembled inside your room, but you still need to get the individual components in there. If in doubt, ask for guidance from our customer service team.

Do you need drawers?

This partly depends on the other oak bedroom furniture you've got. If you can fit a separate chest or drawers in, you might prefer this. But there is something very satisfyingly organised about being able to store tops and jumpers alongside your trousers, skirts and dresses. Smaller drawers might take those awkward items you never know what to do with like scarves, gloves and silk handkerchiefs. Or even a memento of a special occasion; it's a lovely surprise to reach to the back of a drawer and discover an old ticket or dried buttonhole.

Check you – and your wardrobe – always look your best

Wardrobes can be made from many types of wood, but oak is one of the best because of its robust nature. Clothes weigh quite a lot and your wardrobe – like the rest of your bedroom suite – will be used every single day. You might be happy with an oak façade or veneer for looks, though a full, solid oak construction will ensure your oak bedroom furniture will look good for years.

While we're on the subject of looking good, if you've ever gone without a full-length mirror until now, don't think twice about the opportunity to have one on your wardrobe door. If you're short on wall space or floor space, an integral mirror is an excellent idea. However, if you have a larger room, you might prefer a full length stand-alone mirror in a style to complement the style of your oak bedroom furniture.

While there are no rules when it comes to putting your personal stamp on your living space, it's understandable if you want to stay true to the period style of the building. Fortunately, oak is timeless, so whether your home was built in 1850 or 2010, here are some tips for choosing furniture that will help you achieve your ideal look and feel.

The classic Victorian terrace (or even a modern mill conversion apartment) is all about space and light and can easily handle chunky, traditional pieces of oak furniture, preferably with a finish that shows off the natural beauty of the wood. Our Barham range is a good example of this style.

If you prefer a more ornate design, you might consider solid sheesham wood furniture. It's not oak, but with portcullis features, metal handles and wrought iron inserts, ranges like Jali Sheesham create an exotic, colonial feel that can complement your period property.

Should you have a smaller mill-workers or weavers cottage, you will have less floorspace to work with but your rooms should easily accommodate carefully selected pieces.

Modern rooms, from the 1950s onwards, tend to have fewer stylistic characteristics like elaborate coving or high windows, so they can feel more like a blank canvas. You might need to remind yourself not to get distracted by period details that are at odds with the decade your home was built in.

While you might find the lack of interesting features potentially boring, in fact it gives you plenty of flexibility. Suitable designs will bring a contemporary feel, modernity with clever details.

Good examples would be the contemporary Cube oak furniture range or the Hayman, inspired by the popular Shaker style. Scandanavian-influenced furniture is also a good choice, like our Eklund Oak range.

And don't worry if you fall in love with a style of oak furniture that doesn't strictly match the period of your home. There's probably at least one room you can secretly style to be whatever you want it to be – your bedroom, study or even a guest room.

We know how hard it can be to want to redecorate with limited budget. We have a few tips to make sure you can get the look you want with a few simple yet effective ideas.

Change the wall colours

A very fast and effective way to transform any room is to give it a lick of paint! Whether you choose a statement wall or you go and paint the whole room in a striking colour, the ambiance of the room will change instantly.

Move your furniture around

Re-assessing your furniture arrangements will make a huge difference. Move your furniture around the room to create a different look and feel as well as potential more space.

Lighting

Lighting is very important for any room in the house. To keep the cost down, opt for table lamps which can be added to side tables in any room and will transform the mood immediately.

Update your cushions

It is extremely expensive to buy a new sofa, so why not up-cycle your sofa by treating yourself to new cushion covers. This will instantly transform the look and feel of your sofa. Try to incorporate your wall and floor colours which will make the room tie in beautifully together.

Mirrors are amazing

Mirrors will add light to any room and are extremely cost effective. They reflect all the light around the room and can bring a lovely elegant feel. It will also make the room look much bigger as well, try to put the mirror behind a source of light as this will ensure the light is truly reflected.

Furniture

We stock a range of low cost furniture which are amazing quality. Have a look at our pine furniture ranges for more inspiration.

If you’d like more tips on how to make a room look bigger, visit our blog on our website for more hints and ideas for your home.

Oiling oak furniture brings out the depth and warmth in the natural grain of the wood. The oil seeps deep into the wood which keeps the protection on the inside of the furniture as well as the outside.

How to apply oil to your oak dining table:

• Use Linseed Oil or Tung Oil
• Sand the table lightly along the grain of the wood with fine sandpaper (400 Grit)
• Apply a light amount of oil with a dry, soft cloth.
• Apply the oil evenly around the dining table
• Repeat 3 to 4 times once it has dried
• Leave to dry for 15-20 minutes and wipe up any excess oil
• Buff the dining table with a dry, soft cloth
• Leave the dining table to fully dry for a minimum of 24 hours

General maintenance advice:

If your dining table is exposed to heat or damp for a prolonged amount of time then you may need to oil your dining table on a regular basis. We would suggest once or twice a year.

Avoid wiping your oak dining table with a wet cloth as this may remove the oils and leave a mark on your piece of furniture.

Try to keep your dining table out of direct sunlight or away from any heat sources such as a radiator as this can damage the oak wood easily as it can dry out the wood and cause it to potentially crack.

Try to use place mats where possible to protect the table from heated objects and if an accidentally spillage occurs, mop it up with a slightly damp, soft cloth as soon as possible.

Avoid using strong cleaning detergents on your oak dining table as this can react with the oiled finish and leave a cracked finish on your table.

As oak furniture is relatively easy to maintain, it does not damage easily and is naturally stain and scratch resistant. We suggest regular dusting as well as wiping down with a soft cloth.

Avoid dragging the table along the floor as this may cause damage to the joints of the table as well as your flooring.

We hope these tips will keep your oak dining table to its best condition and we hope you enjoy your furniture for many more years to come and if you need more information, visit our website. You can also have a look at our range of dining tables here.

Sideboards are often extremely underrated pieces of furniture. They are a beautiful addition to any home which offers extensive storage options, why would you not want one?!

Many people keep their sideboard in the dining room as they can hold those special plates which only come out at christmas and the extra cutlery set which are saved for extra guests. Another common place for a sideboard is in the living room where many people use it to keep all the kids toys hidden and to store the old DVD’s and CD’s we all still have. We have a range of oak and sheesham sideboards available, such as our Cube Sheesham Large Sideboard which would suit any dining room.

We have a few tips to make your sideboard a re-loved piece of furniture which you will want to show off to everyone.

Whether you love the country rustic look or strive to achieve the minimalist and modern feel, every sideboard can achieve your desire.

Symmetrical Asymmetrical Displays

Symmetrical displays: Perfect for the more formal look, twin lamps or two large vases filled with fresh flowers either side of the sideboard for an elegant display. The symmetric display is easy on the eye and offers a sense of calm immediately due to the brain understanding symmetry very quickly.

Asymmetrical displays: More of a casual look which offers interest and energy. You could scatter framed pictures, candles and trinkets around to keep the focus all around the sideboard. Try to create height by placing flowers, a lamp or a stack of books to keep the eye-line varied, otherwise the display may look rather ‘flat’. If you’d prefer small trinkets on your sideboard then think about hanging a picture above it to balance out the appearance. You should also keep in mind the scale and size of the objects you are using, the more varied, the better as this will keep the excitement there.

Whether you choose symmetrical or asymmetrical, do not forget to mix up your textures to create layers and and interest. For example, glossy with matt, rough with smooth and fibres with metals.

We hope our ways to style your sideboard will restore your love for your sideboard. Have a look at our range of sideboards here. If you would like more information, don’t hesitate to get in touch with one of our team here at Quercus Living.

Having a small living room can be frustrating when it comes to placing furniture and decorating. We have some great tips to make your living room feel and look more spacious. From mirrors to furniture, have a read at our small living room ideas.

Mirror, mirror on the wall

Mirrors are a small room’s best friend. They are a perfect focal point in any room in the house as well as reflecting natural light around a room. If you place a mirror behind a source of light, such as a lamp or a candle, it will reflect this and create a beautiful ambiance. If it is possible, you can hang the mirror opposite your window to give an illusion of another window which will make the room seem much larger.

Vertical dimensions

If you are lucky enough to have high ceilings in your living room then make sure you’re making the most of it. Floor to ceiling drapes over the windows are a beautiful way to draw the eye upwards whilst giving a glamorous and elegant feel to the room. If your living room hasn’t got high ceilings then add high shelves and pictures to your walls so they eyes are immediately drawn upwards, this will make the room feel larger than it actually is.

Neutral colours

Off whites, greys and creams are the perfect wall and ceiling colours for a small space as they tend to reflect the natural light more easily. They also manage to ‘push back’ the walls from your furniture rather than bringing them in like dark hues do.

Furniture choices are important

Choosing furniture that has a pale colour rather than a darker one will keep your living space looking bigger, opt for pieces with plenty of storage space so you have less clutter around. Our Hayman Oak Small Sideboard and Hayman Oak Corner TV Unit are light in colour, will blend beautifully into any small living space whilst offering prime storage space.

If you’d like more furniture inspiration, visit our website to view our complete ranges of oak, pine and sheesham wood furniture. We know how important it is to have great furniture for both small and large living spaces so we ensure to cater for both needs.

Having a cluttered home can make it hard to relax and unwind after a hard day at work. We have a few storage saving ideas for you to keep your home clutter free and organised.

Living room storage

Many of us have lots of trinkets and old dvd’s and books hanging around which we don’t want to get rid of but have no where to store them. Our Cube Sheesham Geometric Bookcase will keep all your treasured collectibles on show and in an organised fashion. This will look stunning in a living room and is also a great talking piece as it is thriving with character and charm.

Hallway Storage

Keeping the coats, wellies and shoes in order in a hallway can be difficult, especially if the entranceway is only a small space. Our Barham Oak Hall Shoe Storage Bench is the perfect addition to any home. With plenty of space to store your shoes, a seat for you and the kids to easily put your wellies on and a perfect area to keep your keys and handbags, this storage bench will be a piece of furniture which you will adore for many years.

Dining Room Storage

The dining room is one of the most used rooms in the home so we know all too well how important it is to keep this room decorated beautifully and having great storage pieces to store all your dinnerware. Our Rustic Oak Large Dresser has plenty of storage drawers, space to show off your ornaments and even large cupboards to house your special occasion dinnerware.

Bedroom storage

Having a clutter free bedroom is extremely important for the mind as it will immediately unwind and relax if you have an organised space to fall asleep in. We have a range of storage options to keep your bedroom a stress-free haven. Our Jali Sheesham Thakat Coffee Trunk and Drawers is a great addition to any small bedroom as it has a large storage area for all your extra blankets, towels or even bedding as well as addition drawers for smaller items. If you team this with our Jali Sheesham 5 Drawer Drum Chest then you will have your bedroom clutter free in no time.

If you’d like more storage ideas for your home, visit our website to view our full range of oak, pine and sheesham wood furniture. We offer unique, distinctive pieces of furniture which are truly stunning.

Small bedrooms can be transformed into cosy little havens with a few simple changes. It’s difficult to fit all the basics such as a bed, wardrobe, chest of drawers and a desk into such a small space, but with these tips, you will love your small bedroom again!

Downsize your bed, a tad.

A kingsize bed will take up so much space in a small room, whereas if you get a double, you will not feel the difference yet it will look so much neater in a small bedroom. It will clear up extra space for a bedside table such as our Hayman Oak Small Bedside Cabinet with Drawer which is slim line and has plenty of space for those little trinkets.

Double hangers

Double hangers are a life saver for small bedrooms, they show off your wardrobe options and make space to hang extra things such as handbags, scarves and coats.

Get a risen bed

A risen bed means you can have plenty of under bed storage whilst avoiding storage boxes being everywhere. You can also get beds which are much higher that have the option for a desk, cupboard or a cosy chill out space underneath, perfect for a kids bedroom!

Use the wall space

Shelves are perfect for storing books, pictures and anything else that you can put up high to spare any floor space. Keep them quite high on the walls as this will draw the eye upwards and will make the room seem much higher than it actually is.

Big statement mirror

We all love a beautiful, big mirror. Buy a big mirror to fit in your small bedroom as this will reflect light around the room and will therefore make the room look so much bigger than it is.

Use your bed as a desk

We all have a desk in our bedroom ready to sit down and do some work, which we never use as we snuggle up in bed and do it there. Save the space of having a desk by adding a bedside shelf to store your laptop.

Choose a light wall colour

Light colour creates the illusion of more space. Think light greys, whites, creams or pastel colours. You can aways accent these with dark furnishings if you prefer the darker hues.

We hope our top tips will recreate your small bedroom into a much loved haven! If you would like more information on storage tips, head over to our website to view all of our oak, pine and sheesham wood furniture ranges.

Hallways are the first thing we see when coming into a house, so it’s important to keep it looking fresh, homely and welcoming, here are a few tips to transform your hallway.

Hard flooring is a saviour

Hard flooring such as wood, stone and slate are more robust than carpet, it will be easier to clean and can handle many people treading in and out of the house.

Add a mirror

Mirrors are a life saviour for dark hallways as they will reflect any natural light around a room, making the space seem bigger and brighter. It is a simple and decorative addition which is extremely effective.

Add bold lighting

Statement lighting sets a glamorous and stylish feel as soon as you walk through the door. A large, bold light will transform any hallway immediately.

Add furniture

Slim console tables such as our Cube Sheesham Console Table look great in hallways and are a perfect fit for such a slim space. You could also add a stylish telephone table such as our Jali Sheesham Lamp Telephone Table to store all your trinkets and keys.

Add scent

Adding a welcoming scent is both welcoming and warming. Put a fresh bunch of flowers on your hallway furniture to keep your hallway fresh and scented. You could also use potpourri or a plug in air freshener if you want it to be more discreet.

Our top five tips will transform your hallway into a mini haven. Your hallway will look stylish, bold, brave and welcoming to all of your guests and you will adore coming home to your newly loved hallway. For more tips on how to make space in your home, have a look at our website to view all of our oak, pine and sheesham wood furniture ranges.

Coffee tables can complete the design of a living room. We will give you all our tips on how to design your coffee table with flair, style and function. Decorating your coffee table is only a small space to work yet and should be decorated with careful consideration.

Storage Coffee Table

A storage coffee table is extremely important for odd bits that may lie around the house, it can hold magazines, dvd’s, books and objects that you don’t necessarily want on show. We have a range of storage coffee tables available, such as our Cube Sheesham Long John Coffee Table . If you have a coffee table with a storage bench underneath then use vintage storage boxes to hold your items that you want to keep out of sight.

Magazines are a great addition

Magazines and books are a simple and effective addition to any coffee table. Your guests will have something to flick through and it also gives a welcoming look to your room. Create various heights with stacks of magazines and a couple of books, teamed with a plant will add more visual interest for your guests.

Add Accents

Real plants are a refreshing addition to any room, they keep the decoration looking fresh and give off a lovely scent. Try to refresh your flowers or plants once a week or month to keep the scene. You could hold them in a glass vase, wooden bowl or various bottles to set the scene in your own style.

Use different materials

Different materials which wouldn’t necessarily match such as rustic wood and metals work brilliantly and the clash of texture create a stunning, eye-catching centrepiece. Feel free to combine two or three different distinct textures to complement each other.

Surface space

Trays are an extremely popular addition to coffee tables as they limit the amount of space you use for decorating, whilst leaving the correct amount of space for cups, plates and various usable objects. Trays give a clean, organised feel to the coffee table whilst looking great!

If you’d like more hints and tips on how to create more storage space in your home, visit our website.

Oak furniture is bought as an investment for many individuals which will last a lifetime if it is properly maintained and cared for. If you are interested in buying oak furniture but would like a bit more information on what to look for and maintenance of the products before buying, have a look at our guide.

Why you should buy oak furniture:

Oak wood is beautiful and extremely durable. It does not damage easily and is stronger than many wood types. Oak furniture can be painted, stained and coated so your house style can change instantly if you wanted to up-cycle your furniture. If the oak furniture is maintained correctly then it can last a life time.

What to look for:

Many manufacturers offer oak veneer instead of proper oak, you can shop with ease with Lifestyle Furniture UK as we only offer solid oak furniture across all of our site. Our furniture is high quality and correctly constructed.

Oak furniture should be extremely sturdy and when assembled correctly, there will be no gaps in-between the pieces.

Maintenance

It’s important to keep your furniture in good condition to ensure its long lifetime. Here are a few tips to make sure your furniture will be kept well for many years to come:

Oak wood is susceptible to change in heat and humid areas, so ensure your piece of oak furniture is set away from radiators or direct sunlight. Heat can cause your oak furniture to crack, shrink and its natural colour can fade.

Removing dust and dirt can be done by damping a clean cloth ever so slightly and work with the grain of the furniture to clean it. Make sure you do not use heavy duty cleaners as this can damage the finish of your furniture.

If there is a spillage on your oak furniture, wipe it up immediately with a clean, dry cloth. Try not to rub it in as this can damage the wax finish on the product.

If you need more information on buying oak furniture, view our website for more hints and tips. We offer a huge range of oak furniture which are handmade and expertly constructed.

Painting oak furniture is a great way of making your piece of furniture loved again! Many of us get bored of the look or style of a particular piece of furniture and painting it can give it a new lease of life! Although, these projects don't come easily and we are here to give a few tips before you begin painting your beloved piece.

Allow yourself enough time

Painting a piece of furniture takes a minimum of four days due to the amount of prepping and coats necessary. Make sure you give yourself the right amount of spare time before you begin painting a piece, if you don't, you may start rushing it and it might not turn out how you expected.

Clean the oak

You may not think your furniture has grease and grime all over it but it's more than likely, it does. Make sure you thoroughly clean the wood with a grease remover (especially if it is a unit from the kitchen)! If you don't clean the oak properly then the paint may not stick properly and will flake away easily.

Remove all of the doors and drawers

A crucial stage in painting your furniture. Take all of the doors, drawers, hinges and knobs off before you begin painting. Many people try to paint the furniture whilst these are still on but the reality is that you are bound to get a bit of paint on the hinges and knobs which, in time, will begin to show signs of wear and will need to be sanded down and repainted. To save time trying to figure out what goes where when you are putting it back together, add little numbered notes on the back of each piece so you know exactly where they go.

Sanding is very important

Sanding down your oak furniture will ensure the paint sticks to it correctly. Spend plenty of energy and time on this part of your renovation as it will be extremely worthwhile in the long run. Use between 150 - 200 grit sandpaper to remove any gloss from the furniture.

Dust your furniture

After sanding, it's paramount to make sure there is no dust left over before you begin painting. Dust the oak piece over and over again so you don't get unwanted grains during painting.

Use prime paint

It may be tempting to skip this step as by now you probably just want to be over and done with. However, if you don't use primer then in a few weeks or months the knots and character in the wood will start to bleed through the paint and will show up.

Wait for the paint to be bone dry

It's very frustrating 'watching paint dry', but it's also very important. Make sure you have left enough time in-between each coat of paint to completely dry before re-painting or moving your furniture. This is the last step and you do not want to mess it up by leaving finger print marks in your new piece of oak furniture! Give the paint time and try not to rush it.

We hope our tips will make you more prepared before painting your oak furniture, if you'd like more information, visit our website.

Styling an open plan living and dining space can create a beautifully bright, light yet cosy space which will can be linked seamlessly to the rest of the home.

To link two areas, it is important to keep the style and colour similar, a soft white and neutral wall colours are timeless and inviting. You can invite colour into your furniture and accents around the rooms.

Enjoy styling your room and think about creating zones for different areas of the room. Think about three different areas in the room, a dining area, living area and an office space (if you need it). Clearly identifying these areas will ensure the open-plan living works perfectly.

Furniture can be used to break up areas, use pieces such as our Eklund Oak Small Sideboard with Drawers to divide a room easily and incorporate handy storage space. You can place ornaments on top of the sideboard to create interest and substance as well as making sure you’ve created the ‘room within a room’ feel. Clutter can instantly ruin the feel and appearance of an open plan living space, incorporate plenty of storage units to keep the room clutter free and non distracting.

An L-shaped sofa is a perfect way to divide a room, it instantly creates a seating area in an open plan space. Use plenty of different fabrics and furnishings to soften the appearance and add the glamorous yet cosy effect.

Be bright with your accents and furniture as this will break up the light walls. Make sure you add plenty of splashes of colour around the open plan space to add fun and excitement to the area. Open plan living and dining areas are usually large spaces so keep in mind to add different styles, colours and prints together to show your own distinctive style as this can get easily lost in a large space.

If you would like to see what storage units we have, visit our website. We offer a range of pine, oak and sheesham furniture to suit and dining and living space, each piece of furniture will add character and charm to any living space.

Storage space and solutions are in high demand with many families growing without being able to move home for more space due to financial situations. We have plenty of alternative storage solutions available to you, find out more here.

Bedroom

Blanket boxes are a life saver when it comes to storage space in a bedroom. They are stylish, on trend and they can hold many items. They can be utilised for almost anything, shoe storage, sports equipment, children’s toys or to hold sheets and bedding. We have a range of blanket boxes available for any style bedroom.

Here at Lifestyle Furniture, we understand how difficult it is to find the perfect chest of drawers which hold enough for your clothes and belongings. Drawers are a vital storage aspect to any bedroom and will keep the room clutter free and tranquil. Have a look at our range of chest of drawers for more inspiration.

Living Room

CD and DVD Units are great to hide all those old dvd’s, cd’s and books we have lying around. They arrange and organise any space as well as looking great and being a perfect addition to any living space. View our range of cd and dvd units here.

Coffee tables are not only useful for drinks and decoration but they can be extremely useful if you invest in a storage coffee table, they will keep your living room in order as you can store trinkets and magazines in your coffee table instead of having them lying around, perfect for when you want to put your feet up with a hot cup of tea and have a read through a magazine. Have a look at our range of coffee tables.

Dining room

Dressers are a perfect addition to any dining room. They add character and warmth instantly with their stunning appearances. They are also amazing for storage with such large capacity, you can hold all your special occasion dining ware as well as tea towels, place mats, christmas decorations and glasses. You could even create your own bar and store all your favourite tipples inside. Check out our range of dressers for more inspiration for your dining room storage solutions.

Hallway

Hallway storage is a must have. Any family with shoes, coats, wellies, umbrellas and bags will know how hallway storage is a massive issue. We offer a range of hallway storage solutions which are beautifully created and extremely useful. They are a great addition to any home, it will declutter your hallway and will instantly transform your home into a welcoming and cosy space.

If you’d like any more tips on storage solutions, visit our website for more information.

Every piece of furniture here at Quercus Living is totally unique as they are hand made right from the beginning. Every piece of furniture have difference markings and imperfections as they are completely natural due to the stunning appearance of the grain in each piece of furniture. The charm and appeal of solid wood furniture is its totally natural look and rustic feel which ensures the piece of furniture will be a great addition to any home.

Natural imperfections are part and parcel of solid wood furniture, here is a list of what you may experience with hand made solid wood furniture:

Graining

The grains in each piece of wood may vary in colour. It is completely natural and happens during the tree’s maturing process. If the grain patterns are thicker and clearer in a piece of furniture, it means that particular piece of wood was relatively old and mature.

Sap Markings

Sap markings are quite common in wood furniture, they are a natural occurrence in real wood and can cause slight pigmentations in the wood.

Knotting

This is one of the most common occurrences in natural wood. The knots can vary from shape, size and colour which can make a piece of furniture extremely stunning.

Staining

Staining is very common is Sheesham wood, it is the natural staining of the grains within the wood and can add a lot of character within a piece of furniture.

Natural Markings

These types of markings can look a lot like water marks which are completely random markings within the wood.

Medullary Rays

As a natural product, the colour and grain of oak can vary from one piece to another. Medullary Rays is a natural occuring also referred to as pith rays or wood rays, a characteristic found in most woods but most striking in hard woods such as oak and will add character, beauty and uniqueness to your furniture.

Medullary rays (also known as Pith Rays or Tiger Marks) are sometimes mistaken for damaged, repaired or water marked wood but are in fact a natural feature of the timber and a sign that what you have bought is real wood that will last you for many years.

If your living space isn’t set up for a varied amount of guests, your get-together could potentially go from fabulous to slightly awkward as soon as the party moves to the living room. Since there are plenty of summer events happening this year, get all your friends together and have that perfect summer party! Here are a few of our top tips to ensure your living room is guest-ready:

1. Lighting

Create the perfect mood lighting. If there is poor lighting in your living space, whether top dark or too light, it can cause an instant mood killer at any gathering. We suggest layering different types of lighting, you can do this by bringing in lamps at alternate heights, lighting some candles around the room and dimming your overhead lights. This will make the perfect combination of keeping your guests comfortable and ensuring the room is light enough for everyone to see.

2. Seating

Arrange your furniture in a way that is sociable and allows group conversations. You want your gathering to feel natural with smooth, flowing conversation. Ensure the chairs are at the same height for guests to see each other at eye-level.

3. Decorate for comfort

Keeping the room fresh, comfortable and easy on the eye is simple to achieve with some fresh flowers and scented candles. If you have a fireplace, plan on keeping the fire roaring all night for that rustic charm feel.

4. A sense of entry

Keep the entry clutter free so your guests walk into the room and feel a sense of space. If you have a path leading down your living room, it is fabulous for entertaining.

5. Intimacy

If you have a large space then it is important to keep the furniture in small groups. This is to keep your guests from shouting over to each other across the coffee table!

6. Introduce Nature

Bring the outdoors, in! Give everyone that summer feel with some well placed plants and trees. Open the windows and doors to keep your living space light and airy.

7. Space for drinks

Keep in mind that your guests may want to place their food or drinks down so ensure you have plenty of tables dotted around. These can include side tables, a sturdy tv stand such as our Rustic Oak TV Unit which will compliment our Rustic Oak Open Coffee Table.

Our 7 tips to ensure you living room is guest ready will give you living room great space, perfect lighting and will make sure your guests are comfortable throughout their whole stay. We have a range of beautiful oak living room furniture on our website so you can redecorate your living space to create that easy talking point!

Links:

http://freshome.com/2011/01/17/how-to-prepare-your-home-for-guests/
http://www.achicaliving.com/2013/09/achica-guide-to-christmas-how-to-get-a-guest-room-ready/
http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/1029041/list/5-ways-to-get-your-living-room-ready-for-entertaining
http://www.houzz.co.uk/ideabooks/33818285/list/living-rooms-10-ways-to-prepare-your-living-room-for-guests

Although interior design and decorating tastes are subjective there are a few general rules and simple tips that can help make a space not only look better but also flow and work better, too.

Get your colours right.

Painting a room light doesn’t mean that it will seem larger and equally painting it dark won’t make it seem small and dingy. Choosing the right colour for your space will, of course, depend on your personal tastes but it’s also important to consider the actual room, too. How large is it? How high are the ceilings? What’s the aspect? How many windows do you have and how large are they?

Think about how you’d like the room to feel. Light colours are usually fresh and calming, but you could also think about trying something new and more daring. Dark colours are great to offset colourful art as well as hiding imperfections on your walls. Bold and dark colours aren’t for everyone but they can make a huge design impact and if you end up not liking the result it’s also one of the easiest things to change, too.

Choose something unfashionable.

Interior styles and designs come in and out of fashion so often that it’s hard to keep up and our tastes change over time, too. Choosing a decorating scheme doesn’t mean it has to be forever but it’s a good idea to plan ahead of the latest trends and be sure to choose something that you will like in a couple of months or years, too.

This doesn't mean that you can’t include the latest new interior must-haves. Try to include them in a more flexible and less permanent way by adding objects that can easily be changed. Artwork, ornaments and lighting can easily be updated and moved, and won't mean that you completely need to redecorate for the next home interiors trend.

Get the scale right.

Obviously, it's important to choose furniture that will actually fit in your space, so it’s vital to get your measurements right before you head out to buy something new. There’s nothing more annoying than ordering a fantastic new sofa or sideboard only to find that it’s too large to even get through the door of your home.

Getting the size of your furniture right, doesn’t mean that you have to stick to things that are perfectly in scale with the rest of your furniture and home, though. On the contrary, sticking with items that are all the same proportions can result in a boring and uninspiring space. So have some fun and add a large piece of artwork or mirror, an oversized lamp or a statement piece of furniture.

Improve your layout.

Think about how the room will flow and how you use your space. Have enough space to move around the room but equally, don’t leave lots of empty and unused areas which can quickly seem boring.

However large or small your space is you can almost always create a more inviting room by not pushing furniture against the walls. Yes, it may not always be possible, but moving your armchair and sofa away from the wall by just a few inches can help to create a much more inviting and sociable sitting and entertaining area. After all, there’s no point in having a load of empty space in the middle of the room, so use it!

Style over substance.

Beautiful interiors in homes in magazines are often inspiring but aren’t necessarily practical for real life. Think about how you will actually use the space on a day to day basis. There’s no point having a bookshelf that you can’t reach because the sofa is in front of it and there’s no point buying the most amazing bed if it’s too uncomfortable to actually get a good night’s sleep.

Also, consider the practicalities and choose furniture to suit your needs. If you have children or pets your choice of sofa fabric, for instance, is probably going to have to be particularly hard wearing.

At the end of the day, rules are there to be broken. It’s your home, do what feels right for you but a few simple tweaks can sometimes make a huge difference and make a space come together.

At Quercus Living, we have everything you need to furnish your dream home. We offer outstanding furniture at outstanding prices for all over your home, with every piece crafted from natural Oak, Pine & Sheesham wood.

Little House On The Corner / Florence Finds / Design Sponge (Abigail Ahern) / Lonny (Photographed by Thomas Kuoh) / House & Garden by Paul Massey

There are countless interior design trends that seem to come and go quicker than you can say “coat of paint” and whilst most of them are quick trends that will disappear within just a short space of time some of them are here to stay.

Open plan spaces.

The biggest current trend in interior design has to be the tendency towards open-plan living. Creating sociable and multi-purpose spaces is high up on the wishlist of many homeowners and is definitely an interior design trend that’s here to stay.

Open-plan spaces, especially in kitchen-dining areas, are particularly popular and practical for family living and entertaining. It’s a great way of making your home feel larger and adding value to your home, too.

How to do it in your home:

Knocking down walls isn’t for everyone and is something that has to seriously be considered and planned. The minimum you’ll need to remove a wall are structural calculations and building control approval. Whilst the actual work is a fairly quick and easy project to carry out, don’t underestimate the amount of dust and dirt it will create and budget time and money to make good all adjoining areas, too.

If you’re unsure if open plan living is for you, you can still partly include the trend in your home. Making your door openings wider and higher or installing large patio doors or bi-fold doors will connect the inside with the outside of your home can already make your space feel much more open without going to the extreme of knocking down half of your house.

Industrial chic.

Industrial style furniture and accessories are everywhere at the moment. It’s been a huge trend in 2016 and is set to continue for the foreseeable future. Materials like concrete and steel are fashionable yet really hard wearing and durable, too.

How to do it in your home:

If you love the industrial look and really want to go all out, exposed brickwork and reclaimed wooden furniture are great industrial statements that will look good great in almost any space.

It’s the mix of industrial materials that makes this look so try to introduce a few interesting textures and materials. Shiny copper and rough concrete, sleek steel with soft velvet. By combining rough and cool materials with softer textures like rugs and throws it’s easy to create a coherent scheme and comfortable space. Even just a nod to the industrial trend can liven up any space, though.

Mixing and matching furniture.

The times of the matching three-piece suites and fully coordinated furniture are long gone. Homes have evolved and are used in a more flexible and multi-purpose way than ever. The current trend towards mixing and matching furniture styles, colours and materials is definitely here to stay.

How to do it in your home:

Ditch the outdated idea of ordering all of your furniture in one place and think about combining different styles, colours and fabrics. Incorporate different textures and materials, add fun and surprising elements and be more daring with your colour choices.

The easiest and safest way to start creating an eclectic interior is by combining different finishes and textures. Don’t feel like everything always has to match - it’s all about having fun with your space and letting your own personal style develop over time.

Make the most of period features.

If you live in an old property you may still have some period features. Particularly in the 60’s and 70’s covering up or even removing original period features in older homes was popular but if you’re lucky enough to still have original mouldings, cornicing or fireplaces it’s now all about making the most of them. They add so much character to a room and can easily be the central feature of your space.

How to do it in your home:

If you live in an older property you may find that you still have original panelled doors hidden under boards or period fireplaces that have been boxed in. All of these features are fairly easy to restore. Doors can be dipped to remove decades of paint and fireplaces can be stripped and polished. And if you don’t have any features left? Well, add them! There are many reclamation yards and specialist antique shops selling reclaimed products and they can advise you which type of feature will suit the period of your home.

The Design Chaser / Little House On The Corner / Sfgirlbay by Louis Lemaire / Cosas de Palmichula / Little House On The Corner

Magazine shoots, interior design books, lots of design-focussed websites always seem to have one thing in common: they refuse to admit that anyone actually watches television. If you look at inspirational design, for some reason, you’ll rarely if ever see the big black box staring at you in any living room scheme. The reality is, however, that most of us have at least one television, if not more. And trying to find ideas for decorating around that big black box can be difficult when you can’t see any inspirational examples of how to do it.

So today, let's lift the lid off the mystery. Yes, of course, you can have a television in your living room and while interior designers may refuse to believe it, it can actually look stylish and work within your own interior tastes.

In my own living room, I simply purchased a television with a white bevel to allow it to blend better against the pale grey walls and the white vintage cabinet that it’s seated upon.

Of course, there are plenty of other ways to incorporate a TV into your design or disguise it within the scheme so that it doesn’t create an eyesore in a well-designed space.

Create a Gallery Wall Around It

One of my favourite ways to disguise a television is to place artwork around it, making it look as though it’s part of a bigger collection and removing the attention from it. Clearly, the TV is still visible but it’s no longer the main focus in the room.

You can hang it on the wall as shown here…

Or put the television on a stand and fill the walls behind it.

In both examples, they used larger artwork or similarly scaled artwork to the TV. Larger pieces will draw the eye and using images with some black in them will make the TV work as part of the larger scheme.

Flank It with Bookshelves

Whether you decide to use a built in shelving system or pair of freestanding bookcases as in the example above, flanking the television on either side is another way of detracting the eye and making the TV just a smaller part of a whole. Using decorative accents on your bookshelves will create a pleasing symmetry and create a stylish look, minimising the importance of the television in the room.

Disguise it in an alcove

If you have an alcove in your living room, consider placing the television within it. This allows the TV to visually recede from the space. I love the effect here where marble patterned paper has been installed inside the alcove, creating a feature of what could potentially be an eyesore in the room.

Make it into a feature

Of course, there's always the option of creating something fun and different in your interiors by using an ornate frame to create an ironic piece of artwork with your television as done in this bedroom. Be sure to use a frame that's slightly larger than your flatscreen and hang it behind it so that it looks as though the TV is a piece of art!

Hide it On a Shelf

On a light coloured wall, any large black box (ie the TV) is going to stand out. Why not hide the television in plain sight? Painting out a built in bookshelf in a dark colour and placing the TV in one of the openings is a great way to disguise a TV when it’s not in use.

Hide it within a piece of furniture

This one will require a bit of custom design work or a carpenter but being able to simply hide the television within a base unit so that it appears when it's being used is a great way of ensuring your TV is not the star of your living room. This clever idea can be utilised in a bedroom or a living area and will definitely impress your friends on film nights!

Be sure to check out our full range of TV cabinets here! How will you be decorating your room around a TV?

Image sources: Quercus Living / Swoon Worthy / Stadshem via Décor Dots / Homey Oh My / Emily Henderson / The Design Confidential / The Decorista / Turner Pocock via Achica Living /  Entrance

With summer and the holiday season finally upon us most of us are busy planning our lazy days in the summer sunshine and are dreaming of travelling to new and exciting destinations.

Something that often gets forgotten amidst all of this fun planning is making sure that our homes are safe and secure for the time we’re away. No matter where you live and where you’re traveling to, no one wants to come home to find that their home is not as they left it. Luckily there are a few simple things you can do to ensure that your home stays safe and secure.

01 Holiday: Making sure your home looks lived in when you’re away.

This is one of the easiest but also one of the most effective ways to deter burglars. Add programmable timer switches to your lights so that they go on and off automatically. Ideally, they should switch your lights on at different times rather than at exactly the same times. This will help make it look like someone is home.

02 Lamp: Get to know your neighbours

Not only are they the best people to keep an eye on your property while you are away but they’re also the ideal people to ask if you need plants watering or pets feeding. Also, ask your neighbours to collect your post. This will also help your home look more lived in as there’s nothing that screams “empty home” as much as a pile of visible post sticking out of your letterbox.

03 Front Door: Make it safe

It’s the middle of summer now, but if you decide to take a winter holiday another great way of making it look like someone is home is getting someone to walk along your path a few times if it snows so that the footprints will create the illusion that someone’s home.

The easier your home is to get into, the more tempting and more likely it is that you could get burgled. Always make sure to lock your windows and doors. Make sure you have good locks and never leave tools and ladders outside. Movement activated security lights have also been proven to deter burglars.

04 House Exterior: Install an alarm system

Even the best alarm system isn’t going to guarantee that you’re not going to be burgled but if anyone is going to break into a house they’re probably going to choose one without an alarm over one with a burglar alarm.

Many burglar alarms can be connected to your phone line and can automatically call you if the alarm is triggered. If you’re away on holiday, you probably can’t rush home to check if everything is okay, but you can get a neighbour to check and you can be fairly certain that everything is still okay if your alarm doesn’t call you!

Another choice that’s getting more and more popular is installing a CCTV camera. These can be connected to your internet connection so that you can even monitor your home from your holiday destination.

05 Alarm System: Consider a house sitter

The best way to make your house look lived is obviously to have someone living in it. If you worry about your home when you’re on holiday, you could consider asking someone to stay in your home while you’re away.

At Quercus Living, we have everything you need to furnish your dream home. We offer outstanding furniture at outstanding prices for all over your home, with every piece crafted from natural Oak, Pine & Sheesham wood.

Looking for ideas to keep the kids entertained this summer? Set them the challenge to try something brand new every week

Wimbledon on the telly and a note from school reminding you about sports day next week can only mean one thing – it's not long until the school summer holidays. Whilst the children whoop and cheer, the reaction from parents can be more of a panicked ‘What are we going to do for six weeks?'

Staving off boredom and keeping the kids happy doesn't have to mean spending a fortune on theme parks and day trips. Instead set them, and yourself, a challenge this year to create a summer full of happy memories by trying something new every week.

The key to success is not to be too ambitious and make your challenges suited to your child's age and abilities. You can chat to your child and choose to do absolutely anything at all as long as it's something you've never done before, but here are six of our ideas to get you started:

WEEK 1: Try a new sport

With the country gripped by Olympic-fever, it's time to inspire a new generation to get active by trying out a new sport. You could spend some cash and try archery or horse-riding, or hold your sporting challenge in your own back garden for free with a challenge to bounce 100 times non-stop on the trampoline – it's up to you. The Lawn Tennis Association runs free six-week courses across the country for kids aged 5-8, take a trip to your local golf course for a juniors lesson or if the weather is bad, head indoors for a sport like climbing.

WEEK 2: Become a nature detective

Visit your local park to look for nature or travel further afield to a National Trust garden or a nature reserve. Why not create your own scavenger hunt to make the walk into a game – hunting for colours or simple shapes for younger children or spotting different birds, plants or animals for older kids.

WEEK 3: Pick up a needle and thread

If your child has enjoyed The Great British Sewing Bee why not encourage them to pick up a needle and thread and have a go. You can buy large, relatively blunt needles in sewing shops that are easier for little fingers and create stitches using bright embroidery silks and loose-weave embroidery fabric that has handy holes to make it simple. Older children can have a go at a more ambitious project, and you'll find plenty of free patterns online.

WEEK 4: Read a new book

However old your child, head to your local library to choose a new book to read. Got a reluctant reader? Perhaps they'd enjoy reading tricks and tips for Minecraft or enjoy a comic strip – libraries carry a wide range of books and if your child can't find something they like the look of, it's free to order books from other libraries nearby. Or sign up for the library's free Summer Reading Challenge, which offers lots of rewards to collect along the way.

WEEK 5: Cook up a storm

Set your child a Junior Bake Off challenge to create something new. Encourage them to either try cooking with a new ingredient (a great way to get them to try a new vegetable!), try following a new recipe or simply to experiment with a twist on something you've cooked before. You'll need to help with anything dangerous or hot, but try to let them do everything else themselves, even if the kitchen does become a bit of a mess for a couple of hours.

WEEK 6: Explore somewhere new

Make it your aim to visit somewhere you've never been before, so you can both enjoy exploring a brand new place together. This could be a beach, famous sight or city, or even just a playground on the other side of town that you haven't ever been to. You could also try using a form of transport you don't normally use, so ditch the car in favour of a bus or bike so you can enjoy the journey as well.

Congratulations – you've made it

Encourage your child to keep a record of their achievements by either writing a few lines in a diary or drawing a picture. You could consider offering a simple reward like a homemade rosette each week or at the end of the six weeks.

At the end of the six weeks you'll both feel like you've achieved something during the holidays and might even have stumbled across a brand new hobby they'll want to continue enjoying into the new term. One thing is for sure, they will definitely have lots to say when they start the new term and are asked what they did in the school summer holidays.

At Quercus Living, we have everything you need to furnish your dream home. We offer outstanding furniture at outstanding prices for all over your home, with every piece crafted from natural Oak, Pine & Sheesham wood.

f you're not jetting off to exotic climes this summer holiday (or you're just yearning to go back), don't worry. The biggest interior trend to hit the high street this season brings you a rainforest full of lush greens and tropical prints, so you can transform any corner of your own home into an island paradise with ease.

Bold Naturals

The tropical botanical look is bold but surprisingly easy to live with because of its natural palette of whites, creams, greys and beiges offset by plenty of verdant greens.

Dress your room your way

Getting the look is all about introducing nature and natural materials to your room. As with all trends, you can introduce as much, or as little, as you like. Even the subtle introduction of some classic botanical prints on the wall or some elegant, green-toned glassware filled with an opulent leafy display will give your room an instant, on-trend lift. Or go all out and with an artfully co-ordinated room featuring bold planting, bright cushions, textiles and co-ordinating richly toned natural wooden furniture.

Walls

If you're feeling brave, dark walls give a sophisticated twist to the trend or crisp whites and greys keep the look light and elegant. You could even treat your walls to some tropical style with wallpaper featuring palm or banana leaves, like the classic Martinique print. If your rooms are smaller, or you want to create a focal point, opt to cover just one wall to avoid the look becoming too overbearing, or even frame smaller rectangles of wallpaper as an inexpensive artwork.

Cushions and textiles

Cushions and textiles are a fun and easy way to introduce the tropical look to your living space. They can instantly enliven a neutral sofa, and help achieve the look at a relatively low cost. Choose from green fern and palm prints or add even more drama and colour with the introduction of playful toucans or flamingos.

Tropical planting

Bold ferns, palms, and succulents all add a welcome shot of natural green and make a strong statement with their architectural lines. Place them in opulent copper or gold planters, or opt for monochrome white, grey or black ceramic. Decorative planters not only add to the completed look but are also a practical way to avoid water damage to your floors or furniture.

Fake it

If the idea of caring for a living plant brings you out in a cold sweat, don't worry. Fake plants have come a long way from the scratchy plastic and nylon roses of the past. Today's faux plants need no water or special care, other than the odd dusting, and look amazingly realistic – some might say even more real than the real thing!

Keep it natural

Using natural wood for pieces of furniture is key to achieving a harmonious look. The exotic hardwood Sheesham (also known as Indian Rosewood) is tough and beautiful and instantly injects a deluxe feel to any living space. The distinctive graining is a feature of this precious and durable wood, which has a rich colour and has been used for centuries in exclusive homes in India and Iran.

Colonial chic

Handcrafted to bring classic colonial elegance to any modern or traditional home, the Jali Sheesham range has been skilfully made in India to last and features ornate wrought-iron work that looks like it's just been taken from a Maharaja's palace.

Timeless, contemporary style

Or pair your tropical room accents with the timeless Scandinavian-inspired, Danbury Oak, which features delicately tapering legs and uncluttered lines.

Ultra-modern

For interiors with an uncompromisingly modern style, Cube Sheesham completes the look. The richly grained Sheesham wood balances the square designer styling for a modernist flair that will endure for years to come.

Quirky accessories

Add some easy drama to your space with the introduction of striking accessories. From gold pineapple lamp bases to faux taxidermy birds, a few carefully chosen accessories gracing your side table can add a more personal touch to your room's style and provide an interesting talking point.

With the introduction of a few key pieces that celebrate nature in all its glory, you can recreate your own flourishing, green paradise in your home that you'll continue to enjoy long after the heady days of summer have past. For more inspiration, take a look at our ranges of exotic Sheesham furniture.

Now that nights are growing shorter and the days are growing longer, it's the time of year when we all get excited about spending more time enjoying the outdoors. Planning the perfect summer entertaining area can seem daunting, but luckily you don't need much to create a lovely outdoor space to enjoy all summer long - the key is to keep it casual.

Comfortable seating is a must for creating a space where you'll want to spend time. Make sure to choose durable outdoor furniture that can stay outside in all weather and choose cushions and fabrics that are hard-wearing and can be washed.

Other great and less formal seating alternatives are picnic blankets and hammocks. Picnic blankets are especially useful if you suddenly find yourself with more guests than seats as they can quickly be dotted around the garden for some additional and casual areas to sit and relax.

Ideally, you'll have everything in easy reach and ready to take outside for the days when the sun is out without having to spend time looking for everything. A weather proof storage box to store cushions and other soft furnishings is an ideal solution for keeping everything in one place.

Create somewhere that's comfortable, somewhere to relax and somewhere to cuddle up under a blanket on those chilly summer evenings. Adding cushions, throws and even an outdoor rug is something that will quickly and easily make your outdoor space more welcoming.

To make your summer entertaining area feel even more inviting think about adding a fire pit. A fire pit is a great focal point for an outdoor entertaining area as well as being practical, too! There's also something about a log fire that's both romantic and cosy. It'll give you an instant wow-factor as well as some much-needed warmth on a chilly summers evening.

As well as some warmth, a fire pit will also introduce a lovely soft glow of light but don't stop there. Add tea lights, lanterns, torches, candles, hurricane lamps and festoon lights. More is more when it comes to garden lighting and a mixture of different light sources and candles will all help create a cosy, relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

It doesn't matter if you have a huge garden or a tiny balcony, plants are a must for any outdoor space. Introducing some lush greenery will instantly make a space feel more alive and vibrant. There is an almost endless list of plants to choose from and if you don't have much space there are amazing vertical gardens that will give a luxurious and plant filled feel without taking up too much space.

You don't need a huge garden to be able to create an inviting entertaining area. A couple of chairs on a small balcony or even just a comfortable and cosy area next to an open window can connect inside and outside and be a perfect summer entertaining area.

There's no need to plan anything too complicated. Have things ready to go. Keep things relaxed and fuss-free so that it's easy to enjoy the sunshine, summer parties and spontaneous get-togethers.

Lonny / Polka Dot Bride / Emily Henderson / Lonny / Ikea / Better Homes & Gardens / Hayneedle

The undeniable natural beauty of wood makes a statement in both traditional and contemporary homes. With its attractive graining, affordable prices and environmentally friendly credentials, there's no wonder pine is one of the most popular woods to choose for everyday furniture.

Better for the planet

Pine is naturally fast growing. Large expanses of sustainably managed forests are planted to meet the need for pine furniture and other uses in construction. That means pine is considered more sustainable (and better for the environment) than slower growing hardwoods such as oak or wood that has been harvested from unsustainable rainforests. Producing it also uses less energy than products like MDF, so if you're looking for furniture that is better for our planet, pine is a great choice. For more information on sustainable forests visit The Forestry Commission.

Lasting Quality

Pine might grow quickly but that doesn't mean it isn't solid and strong. A quick peek in any antique shop at the pine wood chest of drawers, dressers and tables that are 200 years old (and older!) is proof of its durability. Pine is also almost always used for bunk beds – evidence again that it is tough.

Your style now and in the future

The look of natural wood is timeless, but pine can also be painted or stained easily to achieve an individual style or if you want to refresh your interiors in the future without investing in brand new furniture. Because of this, pine is often a popular choice in children's rooms, where you might want more frequent updates than in the rest of your home.

Contemporary but classic

Painted or left natural, pine is a versatile material and can be used around the home to achieve a number of classic and on-trend looks:

Scandi-style

Using natural materials is key to nailing this laid-back Nordic look, so use statement pieces of pine furniture, such as a wardrobe, mirror or bed, with a minimal design like our Devon Pine range. Whilst the look should be uncluttered you can create a warm and inviting atmosphere with the addition of a sheepskin throw or other natural textiles and materials like copper. Keep the walls and floors simple in shades of pale grey or white and you'll have a beautiful, Scandinavian-inspired space.

Rustic Country Living

Used in cottages and farm-houses for centuries because of its ready availability and affordability, pine furniture is the effortless way to achieve the timeless rustic country look. Choose traditionally styled pieces with turning and detailing and a matt lacquer to highlight the warm, honey-colour of the wood like our Essential Pine range and you will instantly get a look like it's been passed down through the generations.

Modern Contemporary

Standout modern design is all about keeping it simple and good craftsmanship. The natural tones and the texture of the grain in pine wood furniture brings depth and interest to your modern scheme and is the perfect contrast to sleek chromes and high tech gadgets. Alternatively, you can easily paint your pine wood furniture a minimalistic white or grey or get funky with a bright colour-pop of acid yellow or orange.

Why should I consider pine furniture instead of oak?

Both pine and oak furniture will be a beautiful natural addition to your home. Faster growing, pine is a lighter alternative to oak, easy to paint or stain and a good choice if you're looking for a budget-friendly piece that will last.

With dependable quality, pine is the perfect choice for bringing the luxury of a natural product into your home whilst its budget–friendly appeal makes it the ideal option if you want to update your interior with the latest design trends. Whether you're looking for a piece of furniture to effortlessly slip into your current scheme or are looking to completely overhaul your interior space, take a look at our range of beautiful and affordable pine wood furniture now.

Our bedroom is normally our sanctuary – a place we start and end our days, the last thing we see as we close our eyes, the first thing we see when waking to a new day. If your bedroom isn't quite up to the images you see in magazines or online nor the picturesque thing of dreams just yet, never fear. Creating a beautiful bedroom is really about paying attention to the details.

Today, I wanted to walk you through each element of your bedroom and how you can style it just like the professionals, making it both liveable as well as beautiful. Each part of the room requires a little bit of attention but after following these steps, your room will look chic and pulled together – and you might just want to get an early night to enjoy it for a little longer!

The Bed

Naturally, the bed takes up the most 'real estate' in any bedroom, making it the natural focal point of your space. Taking your bed to the next level in the style stakes means you'll want to lavish some much needed attention on it. The general rule of thumb is a duvet, 2 housewife pillowcases, 2 standard pillowcases and a decorative throw cushion at the minimum. If you want to further embellish your bed, consider adding a textural throw, a long bolster cushion or 2 more decorative cushions. Be sure to tie in the colours to the rest of the space for the most inviting mix.

The Bedside Tables

In this instance, having a matching set of tables normally works best. By allowing your eyes to see the same piece on both sides, it gives a room an instant feeling of calm as it's easy for our brain to process symmetry. Consider matching table lamps on each side as well, further emphasising the symmetry. With those two matching pieces, you can then have a little fun with styling smaller displays on each side (which certainly don't have to match). Consider things like a stack of favourite books to read, a small bud vase of fresh flowers, a little decorative bowl or tray to hold your everyday jewellery or a few personal pictures.

The Chest of Drawers

For a fully functional and beautiful chest of drawers, consider hanging a large mirror above it to make getting ready in the morning easier. On the surface, a table lamp will softly illuminate the room in the evenings or early mornings and provide visual height. Consider as well a tray for displaying pretty perfume bottles or creams and lotions that you may use on a daily basis as well as a jewellery display area to finish it off.

The Curtains

Your curtains should always be hung as near to the ceiling as possible and should go all the way to the floor. This gives the whole room an illusion of much higher ceilings as your eye is drawn the full height of the room. They should end either just on the floors or have a simple 1” break. You should also hang your curtains wide so that when the curtains are drawn back, the entire window is visible, allowing as much light into the space as possible.

The Wardrobes

There's something rather anxiety-inducing about a wardrobe that is stuffed full to the brim. Studies have shown that we only wear 20% of our wardrobe 80% of the time so if yours is causing you to spend much more time in the morning sorting through what you don't want to wear rather than what you do, it may be time for a clear out. Be ruthless in your editing and if you haven't worn an item in the last 6 months to a year, consider donating it to charity or selling it online. For out-of-season items, use large clear storage boxes or vacuum storage bags and store these under your bed or inside a divan to make some space. Shoe organisers or clear boxes will keep your shoes at their best rather than knocking around in the bottom too.

The Walls

Now that your room is tidied and styled to perfection, it's time to lavish a little attention on those blank walls. As your bed will be the attention-grabber in the room, consider a large piece of art or a few coordinating pieces of art in a gallery style above the bed. Choose other pieces of art that speak to you first and that you truly love and consider those that marry well with your chosen colour theme second. Ensure your pieces aren't too small to command the size of the walls that they are placed – if they are small or medium sized, gather coordinating pieces together in a gallery wall.

The 'Bonus' Extras

While your room will look perfectly pulled-together with the six steps above, if you want to go above and beyond for a gorgeous look, then consider these few additions to your space. For style and comfort, include a soft upholstered arm chair in a corner or a bench at the foot of your bed to make putting on your shoes each morning a little more enjoyable! A soft rug underfoot that compliments your design will create some texture as well and the addition of some plant life or flowers will always look chic in any space.

If you'd like more furniture inspiration, visit our website to view our complete ranges of oak, pine and sheesham wood furniture.

Images: Quercus Cube Sheesham Range / Quercus Devon Pine Range / Hanna Blackwell Photography for Adore Magazine / Driven by Décor / Querus Constance Oak Range / Swoon Worthy / Swoon Worthy / Skona Hem

It doesn't matter if you're a keen cook who spends their weekends trying new recipes, if regularly feed a hungry family or if you can barely find time to heat yourself something to eat in the microwave. The best kitchens are the ones that work around you and your lifestyle. There's no point in having a gorgeous space picked straight from a home magazine or catalogue if it's not tailored to your needs.

How do you work?

Designing a kitchen that works for you is all about working out how you use your kitchen. It’s important to plan a kitchen around your way of cooking and your family. If you have a large family it's likely that you'll have different needs to someone who mainly eats takeaways.

If you’re a keen cook, for example, you may need a double oven, a warming drawer or other fancy equipment. Are you adding a wine fridge, a dishwasher or any other gadgets? If you have a large family you'll probably need a lot of storage and seating.

Will there be more than one person cooking and how much work surface will you need? Work out your exact requirements before you even think about designing your kitchen - knowing exactly how you're planning on using the space will make it much easier to design a kitchen to suit your lifestyle.

How much storage do you need?

One of the most important aspects in any kitchen is storage. Being able to find things and have them easily accessible not only saves time but also helps keep your kitchen clutter free. Think about adding deep drawers instead of plain cupboards. They have a huge storage capability and there'll be no more rummaging at the back of the cupboard for out of date cans of food because you can easily see everything in one go.

Thinking vertically can also be a great way to make more of your space. By hanging tools on the wall there in easy reach for when you need them and you'll be creating more space in the drawer for storing other items, too.

What kind of layout do you need?

When planning the layout of your kitchen try to remember the work triangle. There have been studies done on the ideal kitchen layout and ideally, you should create a working triangle between the three most used areas of your kitchen – the sink, the cooker and the fridge.

Following this basic kitchen planning rule should ensure that your kitchen has a great workflow.

In addition to creating a great cooking space, it's also important to consider if you'll be using your kitchen for entertaining. Will you be incorporating a breakfast bar? Will it be a kitchen-diner, or will you have a separate formal dining room? Do you want the kitchen to be the hub of your home? How much seating will you need? Do you have enough space for an island? It's also always a good idea to plan a kitchen so that you can hide the mess and dirty dishes after cooking - especially important if you're designing an open plan space.

What kind of style would you like?

Once you've decided on the practicalities of your kitchen it's time to start thinking about style. Are you planning something modern or rustic? Do you want to hide everything or are you considering open shelving? What colours and materials do you like? Every decision you make will influence the overall look, feel and functionality of your kitchen.

It's likely that you'll not be able to realise all of your kitchen dreams, so sort your wishes and priorities. If you follow the basic rules, consider practicalities and add your own personal touches you'll end up with a kitchen that will not only look great but will function great, too.

The Jungalow - Photographed by Danae Horst / Lonny / Rock My Style / Decoholic / Robinson Residential / Sköna Hem / Swoon Worthy

One of the rooms in our home that we all spend a lot of our time in is our bedroom yet it's often one of the most neglected rooms in the house. With just a few simple and quick updates you can refresh and personalise your space, transforming it into a relaxing retreat where you can escape from the day's stresses.

1. Mirrors, Art & Wall Decor

Just because you're the only ones that see the room, doesn't mean that it can't be special. Mirrors are great for bouncing light around and making the room seem larger.

Hanging art on your walls or placing personal items around the room can really make your space come alive. Personal artwork and photographs help to create a bedroom that's personal to you.

2. Introduce Texture & Pattern

More is more when it comes to the bedroom - add throws, cushions and curtains. It doesn't matter what time of year it is, give your bedroom a cosy and welcoming feel by adding some fabrics and textures that will make it feel relaxing and inviting.

But don't just stop there. Adding shiny, shimmering textures and metallics will instantly add glamour and create a more luxurious boutique feel in your room.

Original floorboards or classic parquet may be gorgeous surfaces, but by adding a soft rug you'll instantly create a cosier and more welcoming space. You'll also have somewhere soft to land when you jump out of bed in the mornings!

3. Invest In Your Bedding

There's nothing that's more luxurious and sets you up for a great nights' sleep than comfortable, crisp and clean bedding.

Whether you opt for some luxurious Egyptian cotton or just a fresh new throw. Nothing's quite as welcoming as a fresh and clean bed.

Try to also have a selection of pillows. You don't need to go all out and have a pillow menu like in fancy hotels, but a couple of different types will ensure that you always have the right pillow for a good night's sleep.

4. Update Your Storage

Keeping clutter at bay is a must for creating a calm and tranquil space. Utilise the space under your bed to hide items you rarely use or to store your seasonal wardrobe.

Built-in storage is a great way to get the most out of your space, but even the addition of an extra shelf or a blanket box can make difference.

5. Get The Lighting Right

Getting the lighting right is key in any room, but in the bedroom it's particularly important. Having a mix of mood lighting and task lighting is an essential part in making the most of your room.

Lighting can be expensive, so if you can adding dimmer switches to the lights you already have can be an inexpensive way to give your lighting an instant update.

6. Paint

Paint is one of the cheapest and easiest ways to completely transform a room almost instantly. It doesn't matter if you're aiming for calm and soothing or bold and vibrant feel - a can of paint and a few hours of work can have a huge impact on the look of the room.

When choosing a new colour for your walls (or even your ceiling, furniture & floor) why not step out of your comfort zone and choose something completely new. A bedroom is a fab place to go bold and use a dark colour which will transform the room into a cocooning and moody space.

7. Seating

A bench, a comfortable arm chair or just an extra deep window sill. Having somewhere to sit in your bedroom will give the room a more generous and inviting feel. It's no longer just a space to sleep, but also an area where you can relax, read a book, drink your coffee and take your time while getting ready in the mornings.

If your space is limited, try to include seating that doubles up as storage. A built-in bench for example is a great way of adding storage as well as including somewhere to sit.

8. Declutter

One of the most effective way to create a calm and tranquil room is by decluttering your space. Give clothes you no longer wear to a charity shop, tidy away the books on your bedside that you've already read and clear away anything that shouldn't be in your room.

By getting rid of clothes you no longer wear you'll not only create a tidier wardrobe, but you'll be more likely to put things away again when everything has a designated space, too.

9. Ban Technology

Do you really need a TV in the bedroom? Do you really need to check your emails before you go to sleep? Can't that Facebook status update wait till the morning?

It's been proven that blue light which is emitted from things like TVs, phones and tablets mimics daylight and will keep you awake. Blue light can even disrupt your brain's natural sleep and wake cycles which is why banning technology is one of the most important yet easiest ways to help ensure that you will have a restful night's sleep.

Image Sources:Emily Henderson / Decorative Bedroom / Lesley W Graham / Miou / Home Adore / Emily Henderson / The Guardian - Photo by Ingrid Rasmussen / Lonny / House & Garden / House To Home

How to Incorporate Pastels in Your Décor

So the sun is shining, the flowers are beginning to bloom and the buds are finally making their appearance in the trees. With temperatures rising, it may be easy to shove those winter boots and coats to the back of the closet but what about our homes? Creating a spring look without having to fully redecorate isn’t difficult and one of the easiest ways to bring spring into our homes is by welcoming in the palette of the season. Soft pastels create a wonderful airy look that lifts our moods and can be easily blended with our current tastes.

So with that in mind, here are a few tips to incorporating the colours of Spring into your home.

Combine them with brights

A wall of soft green combined with bold blue bedding may not be our first inclination but when used with cushions that complement the colour scheme, it’s hard to ignore how well this works. Bring in bright colours through artwork and textiles and ensure there is a balanced mix for the most successful eclectic pairings.

Lift a neutral palette

For a room that uses mostly neutrals, consider bringing a hint of colour by way of pastel cushions and accessories. The room will continue to feel calm and airy but with that touch of softness, the palette is quietly uplifted without overwhelming the senses.

Brighten a dining room scheme

Consider painting small furnishings in a cheery hue to really make a statement. Here, pale blue chairs add a charming touch to a modern space. Consider if the chairs were white, it just wouldn’t have the same impact, would it? Small touches like this are fairly easy to replicate with primer and spray paint and can be done in a single weekend.

Embrace blush pink walls

The palest pink is no longer reserved for nurseries and was named one of Pantone’s Colours of the Year for 2016. Using blush pink in combination with black gives it a bit of edge and makes it easy to live with. It also combines beautifully with warm metallics like brass and copper to add a subtle glow.

Combine with black and white

Soft colours can go too sugary very quickly so the easiest way to maximise their impact is by combining them with monochromes. Black and white will balance out the softness of pastel colours and create a wonderful contrast that’s both inviting as well as exciting.

Mix and Match

Combine various pastels with each other for a fun liveable look that’s easy to achieve. Using art as the basis for your palette, tie in plain and patterned pastels of similar saturation for easy going style.

A few choice touches

Finally, the easiest way to incorporate a few pastels is with smaller accessories. Here, a plain white desk is given an injection of spring hues with accents in spring colours. Just a few simple touches are all that’s necessary for any area of your home to look ready for Spring.

Remember, our oak furniture ranges work beautifully with pastels. Check out our Rustic Oak Range which pairs perfectly with the soft colours of Spring and brings a little bit of an organic touch to this colour palette.

Image Sources: Real Living Australia via Bed Nest / Ivan Solls for Design Love Fest / Apartment Therapy / Bolig Liv / Ida Interior Lifestyle / Bright Bazaar / Ever and Anon Photography for The EveryGirl

With the days growing longer and the fresh scent of spring in the air, it’s the season when we’re all starting to look forward to enjoying some warmer weather and sunshine. Putting the dark and cold wintery days behind us is always uplifting. It gives us a new lease of life and inspires us to set ourselves goals and motivates us to tackle new projects.

If you’re looking to give your interior a spring makeover, too, here are some quick and easy ways to refresh your home for spring.

1. Introduce Colour & Pattern

Adding just a few touches of colour can instantly lighten and brighten your space. A few colourful accent pieces dotted around a room, a bright piece of art or a bold cushion will add fun splashes of colour and spring vibrancy to your home.

But don’t just stop with colour and introduce some pattern to your home, too! Mixing and matching different textures, colours and patterns is a great way to provide interest and liven up any room.

There’s no need to go overboard with floral prints (although they do add an instant spring factor to your home), botanical patterns and bold prints will also create a fresh and lively feel.

2. Bring The Outside In

There’s nothing that says spring quite like the smell of fresh flowers and by adding just a touch of plants and greenery to the inside of your home you instantly create a connection to the outside.

Adding something living to your room is a trick that interior designers use to make a space feel more alive. Plants are also great for introducing a softer texture and some more colour to your room.

3. Declutter & Clean

It may be a bit of a cliché to spring clean, but a there’s nothing quite like a tidy and clean home.

Clean your windows to let light in, touch up any chipped paint and give the areas of your home that you tend to neglect a thorough clean.

Give your floors a scrub, clean your carpets and most of all declutter. Spring is all about freshness, so think about adding more storage to keep clutter at bay. If you don’t have much space try to use multi-purpose furniture like this coffee table with built-in storage where you can hide unsightly items.

4. Update Fabrics

Now's the time to get rid of the heavy throws and store your wintery items before replacing them with something fresh and bright. At this time of year you refresh your wardrobe, so why not refresh your home, too?

There’s no need to buy everything new, just a few lighter touches can make all the difference to your room.

Linens, cottons and silks have a much lighter look than velvets and furs. If you like to switch things up regularly, you could think about building up a selection of pillows and throws that you can swap around for the seasons.

5. Add Scent

Fresh flowers, candles or diffusers - nothing says spring like the scent of something fresh in the air.

6. Fresh Paint

Whilst painting a room or just a wall is slightly more work, there’s nothing quite like a crisp and clean coat of paint to make an impact and a space feels new and fresh.

It’s easy, affordable and in just a few hours can completely transform a room.

7. Let In The Light

With the gloomy and dark weather now behind us, it’s time to make the most of the sunshine. Pull back the curtains and let in the light!

Although the days are getting longer, darkness still sets in early in spring, so as well as letting more natural light into your home think about updating some of your interior lighting, too.

Every room should have multiple light sources for different occasions. Lighting can have a dramatic effect on your space and make it feel bright & airy or cosy & seductive. Adding additional light sources gives you more flexibility and you can easily create a mood and atmosphere to suit the occasion.

Image Sources: Archzine / Decocrush / Christina Kayser Onsgaard (Styling by Rikke Graff Juel) / Apartment Therapy / Laura Ashley / Lapin Blu / Looks Like White / Planete Deco

The clouds are finally parting and the sun is shining so of course, it’s time to pull out those lighter jackets and put away our heavy winter coats and boots. While we may be familiar with swapping our winter wardrobes at this time of year, it’s not just our closets that need a bit of a refresh. Our homes should also transition and change with the seasons to make the most of the coming dose of sunshine and warmth.

Of course, I’m not encouraging you to completely redecorate every 3 months – that would be impractical as well as get rather expensive! But visually lightening our spaces doesn’t actually have to mean spending a lot of money and with a few simple ideas and some furnishings that do the hard work for you, your home can feel as fresh and new as those spring buds outside your window!

Spring Clean

I don’t know about you but once I start seeing my home in beams of sunlight, I also tend to notice with horror where I’ve failed to dust! When it’s darker, we may not be able to easily see where dirt or dust has settled but in the bright light of a higher sun, your home may not be as clean as you think! So it’s time to give your home a good deep spring clean, taking time to tackle all those little areas that may have been neglected. It’s not just under furniture or along the skirting boards that will need some attention – make sure you thoroughly clean your windows (inside and out) to ensure you take advantage of all that extra daylight! You may just notice that your home will look brighter and fresher without changing a thing!

Get Organised

With winter, it’s easy to collect lots of additional items with the subconscious instinct that we need to build our ‘nest’ to keep warm. You may have found that your collections of things like cushions and throws and additional bedding is starting to get a little out of hand. Or perhaps your kids’ have received lots of new things from the family over Christmas to the point where you think their toys may be breeding! It’s time to consider a little additional storage for your needs. If your storage is inadequate, consider looking into practical solutions that look great as well. Our Constance Oak Range not only looks great with its natural oak finish and works just as hard to store everything away and out of sight!

Strip Back On Clutter

As a self-confessed ‘maximalist’, I do love to display treasured objects around my home. Accessories add life and personality to a space and create a sense of home. But if your beloved collections have started spilling onto every surface of the house and your bookcases and shelves are bursting at the seams, then perhaps it’s time to clear out the clutter to let those items you love the most shine. Consider editing your accessories and packing them away for safe keeping for the next time you want to do a little refresh. For those things that no longer excite you or don’t work with your chosen style, consider donating them or selling them so that someone else might enjoy them.

Swap out Your Textiles

With Spring nearly here, it’s time to lose the heavier fabrics of winter. Thick knits, velvet and anything heavily embellished is wonderful in Winter but for Spring, it’s time to start looking at lighter, fresher fabrics like cottons and linens in lighter colour palettes. Swap out the heavily lined curtains for voiles and remove the additional throw from the bedding. If you don’t need 12 cushions on your sofa (and really, no one does), edit that collection to just a few that you love. Removing those additional layers and bringing in paler shades like white, light greys and soft pastel colours will immediately give your space an airier Spring look.

Add in Some Greenery

Finally, one of the loveliest things about this season is that nature begins to wake up and with that, the world becomes awash with green. Consider bringing the outdoors in with some houseplants or cut flowers. With the trend for houseplants growing only stronger, it’s time to let go of the idea that we have a black thumb and bring in some hardy varieties that anyone can take care of. Consider succulents, cacti or air plants if you are wary as they hardly need watering. If you are a little more confident, consider larger leaf varieties like Peace Lillies, Snake plants or Monstera Deliciosa which bring a beautiful organic feel to any space.

Image sources: Idha Lindhag for My Scandinavian Home / Quercus Living Constance Oak / Emily Henderson / Emily Henderson / Chris Patey for My Domaine

One of the most exciting trends for 2016 is the well-travelled home. Curating a unique style based on your travels creates both a positive feeling in your home through the memories they create as well as a personality-packed showcase of the places you've been.

However, if getting to the souks of Marrakech are simply not in the budget this year, fear not. It’s actually not as difficult as it may seem to get a global look in your home. With so many retailers offering goods from far-reaching lands or creating items with a heavily-global influence, you can still get that 'well-travelled' look without ever having to leave your sofa!

The beauty of this look is in its eclecticism. There's no need to stick to a specific region of course - goods from India, Morocco, Africa, Mexico or India can all play rather nicely together and really, layering those looks means a less-fussy and planned look which, let's be honest, really best suits fancy hotels rather than somewhere you can truly put your feet up and relax.

The most important aspect to get this look right is in mixing your textiles and patterns. Consider a strong bohemian influence on your design - pile thick Moroccan rugs on the floor, a colourful straw basket in the corner filled with heavily textural cushions, perhaps a woven wall hanging on the wall or a macramé plant hanger in a corner. It may be better if you decide on colourful fabrics to leave the walls in a white or pale neutral colour to allows the patterns to pop rather than fight against colourful walls.

Your lighting should play into the design as well. Dot lanterns on the floor, hang colourful or clear globe string lighting along the ceiling or use a simple Moroccan pendant for an exciting and unique space and bring in plant life to add organic flair and a relaxed style.

Even in the kitchen and bathroom, ethnic and geometric prints are taking centre stage. Encaustic, cement and patterned tiles add movement, texture and colour in what can normally be a very utilitarian space and including these patterns will allow the kitchen to flow seamlessly with your living spaces.

When choosing furniture, consider using pieces in darker wood finishes. Our Sheesham ranges marry well with textural fabrics and the deep wood colours bring a sense of richness and history to a space.

For a more contemporary take on global style, the Sheesham Cube range bookcases and dressers are perfect for displaying your global finds and their clean lines allow your objects to really shine.

If your tastes veer more towards traditional or ornate, our Indian crafted Jali Sheesham range with its wrought iron accents and luxurious finish will perfectly blend with more ornate designs from across the world.

Whatever your style, consider bringing in the texture, history and colour of far off lands to create a perfectly curated and well-travelled look.

About Author - A freelance writer and content marketing expert, Kimberly Duran is an award-winning Interior Design blogger who chronicles her decorating journey in her blog, Swoon Worthy.

Image sources: Justina Blakeney / Conde Nast photo by Anna William, Prop styling by Amy Wilson / Amber Interiors / Emily Katz Magic Dream Life / Julia Chapman for One King’s Lane / Apartment Therapy

What do Viking longships, Salisbury Cathedral and HMS Victory have in common? The answer is oak. It was integral in the construction of all three. More than 6000 oak trees were used in the construction of HMS Victory and substantial parts of Salisbury Cathedral are made from oak that dates back to the 13th century.

The mighty oak tree is the national tree of numerous countries, including England and Wales. The standard bearer for strength, endurance and durability and sacred to many Gods, including Zeus and Jupiter – its importance in history and mythology cannot be overstated.

Native to the northern hemisphere, oak belongs to the genus Quercus from the beech family, Fagaceae and there are over 600 extant species of oak. It's the most common tree in the UK and oak woodlands are home to hundreds of species of insects, birds and small mammals, as well as mosses and fungi. As an oak tree ages its bark develops deep fissures that provide shelter to thousands of insects during the winter months. In autumn, badgers and deer snap up the fallen acorns to feed themselves. And while on the tree, they provide nourishment for squirrels, mice and birds.

The timber from an oak tree is one of the hardest and most durable timbers on the planet and has been used in construction for thousands of years. Most ships were built from oak until the middle of the 19th century and in modern times it's used for architectural beams, wine barrels, flooring and, of course, high quality furniture.

Oak is a dense hardwood with attractive grain patterns. It grows slowly to develop its strength and density and a tree needs to be at least 150 years old before its timber is suitable for use. Its ability to survive the colder seasons is a major factor in its longevity. During the summer months an oak tree gets all its energy from sunlight via its leaves, then as the days shorten and the temperature drops, it undergoes changes to its stem, roots and leaves in order to prepare it for autumn. Chemical messages known as hormones are sent and received and the tree begins to redistribute its resources. It breaks down pigments and nutrients in the leaves and they change colour, eventually dropping to conserve energy and water. The complex root system relies on fine fungal threads to extract phosphates and nutrients from the earth and store them. Eventually, stripped of leaves and using hardly any energy, the tree goes dormant. But there are still challenges to come. Freezing must be avoided so the tree dehydrates itself leaving behind cells high in sugars which act as a natural anti-freeze to protect it until spring when it bursts into life again.

Oak can be made into all kinds of furniture that will last for years, is naturally warm and beautiful and looks better as it ages. It's also ideal for both traditional and modern homes. Oak furniture is easy to maintain – it can be stained, varnished, waxed and sanded down and refinished if it gets scratched or marked, and its imperfections and other natural markings only add to its character. Most supplies of oak come from sustainably managed forests where every tree that's used is replaced. Oak is relatively easy to process, which also lessens its detrimental impact on the environment. It's naturally self-sustaining too, dropping more acorns some years than others to discourage reliance on its bounty from animals who will then seek other sources, meaning that some of the surviving acorns can germinate and eventually grow into mighty oaks themselves.

Furniture made from solid oak is an investment. It may be more expensive than other woods but it will repay you many times over with its longevity, resilience, and timelessness. All of our oak furniture is crafted using traditional techniques such as dovetail joinery on the drawers and tongue and groove backs to ensure its strength and durability. We have furniture in various styles and everything has been finished by hand to ensure its quality. From our French-influenced Constance Oak range to the ultra-modern styling of our Cube Solid Oak range, oak is the ideal material to bring warmth, luxury and style to your home and we're sure you'll find just what you need among the ranges on our website. Take a look.

Useful links:
http://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/visiting-woods/trees-woods-and-wildlife/british-trees/native-trees/english-oak/
http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b06fq03t/oak-tree-natures-greatest-survivor

In the run up to the holidays, gathering together with friends and family in the comfort of your own home is one of life's little pleasures. But planning a dinner party can lead to a lot of stress with cleaning, cooking, wanting your home to look its best, taking care of guests, the fear of things going wrong and of course, making sure the party is one they won't soon forget.

There are a few things to keep in mind in both the run up to and during your dinner party that will ease the pressure to create a "perfect" evening and these things will ensure that everyone - including the host! - has a great time. The last thing your guests want to see is a stressed out frazzled host and so following these tips will mean a relaxed and enjoyable evening will be had by all.

Tip #1: Plan ahead

I know this seems obvious but the more you can do before the party starts, the less stress you'll deal with on the day. Buy drinks in bulk when they go on sale at the supermarket, chop any veg and make dessert the night before, set the dining table, create your playlist - all these things can be done in the run up to your night rather than trying to fit everything in on the morning of your party.

Tip #2: Invitations

If you're planning something formal, paper invitations should be sent 3 weeks prior to your party but if you are just kicking back and relaxing with friends over a meal and some wine, a phone call or email 2 weeks before is just fine. Ask your guests to RSVP within a week of your party, however, so you have the full head count before you start shopping and always prepare enough food for 2 to 3 additional people to ensure you don't run out or if someone unexpected arrives.

Tip #3: Keep it Intimate

A great dinner party doesn't need more than 6 – 8 people. Make sure you invite those who make you feel relaxed and who would get along well with one another. If this is your first party, don't invite the person that makes you feel awkward or nervous (like your boss!) or the person who always says the really inappropriate thing at the wrong time that will make other guests feel uncomfortable.

Tip #4: Dietary Requirements

Be sure to ask guests if they have any allergies or dietary requirements before you start menu planning and make sure everyone has something nice to enjoy (not just an undressed salad) during your party. The last thing you want is to find out your guest has coeliac disease before you plate up your legendary pasta bake.

Tip #5: Lighting

Using a lot of candles and tealights is a great way to create atmosphere. Turn down the main light (a dimmer switch is always a good idea in the dining room!) and create a sparkly glow that makes everyone look their best. Consider fairy lights in hurricane lanterns or led flameless candles if you are afraid children (or guests!) may knock real candles over. Use a fragranced candle in the bathroom but stick to unscented ones in the other rooms so the scent doesn't interfere with the food.

Tip #6: Set the tone with music

Your playlist should include a good mix of styles for guests to enjoy, no matter what their tastes. Start off with something mellow for the early evening then build up slowly and return to something mellow again towards the end of the night. Never have the music so loud that guests have to shout above it – ensure it's simply background noise and set the mood you wish to evoke.

Tip #7: Don't take risks with food

You'll only add to your stress by cooking something you've never made before. It may be tempting to try that exotic Japanese meal you read about in Bon Appétit but the truth is, there's more of a chance of increasing your stress (at best) or ruining the food (at worst!) if you've never made it before. Stick to simple foods that don't take too much time and energy away from entertaining your guests and don't leave you chained to the kitchen all night.

Tip #8: Buffet Style

If you don't fancy serving a multi-course meal, consider serving buffet style. Allowing guests to mingle is one of the greatest parts of entertaining and having food set up so guests can help themselves is a great way to remove some of the stress of serving from you. Serve food that can be eaten in a single bite and leave out plenty of plates and napkins.

Tip #9: Create a signature cocktail

Creating your own cocktail can be a fun way to make your night more memorable. Print out and frame your instructions on a barcart or makeshift bar area with all the supplies ready and available – from a cocktail shaker to a bucket of ice to cut up lemons or limes and plenty of glasses. Or if you don't fancy yourself much of a mixologist, consider serving some kind of spiked punch so that guests can help themselves to a drink without having to ask.

Tip #10: Stop apologising

Pointing out to guests that things aren't tidy enough or you still need to paint that room or the food just wasn't as good as the last time you made it only highlights these faults! Stop saying you're sorry and allow your guests to enjoy their evening and concentrate on everything you did get right. And if things go wrong? It's likely no one will even mind or notice.

Also checkout our Dine In Style This Christmas Infographics! for tips on choosing a dining table.

About Author - A freelance writer and content marketing expert, Kimberly Duran is an award-winning Interior Design blogger who chronicles her decorating journey in her blog, Swoon Worthy.

Image sources: Passports & Pancakes (banner image) / Spoon Fork Bacon / Elegance & Enchantment / Anna Delores Photography for Style Me Pretty / Jamie Oliver / White Loft Studio for Style Me Pretty / Gather & Feast / Damn Delicious / Oh Joy / Super Golden Bakes / Coco + Kelly

We all tend to put so much thought into planning the other rooms of our homes, so why not spend a bit more time planning your hallway, too?

Make The Most Of Features

If you're lucky enough to have period features like high ceilings with delicate plasterwork, a beautiful stained glass window or gorgeous wood panelling it's a good idea to make the most of them. Keeping everything clean and simple will accentuate the features and help create a stylish entry.

Add Interest

Don't worry if you don't have any period features, you can still add personality to your space. Consider adding some character by adding wallpaper or a splash of colour.

Painting a wall, a piece of furniture or even your stairs a bright colour is also an easy, cheap and instant way to add some fun personality to your room.

Just remember to coordinate the overall colour with the other rooms leading off it and try to minimise too many clashing colours for a coherent feel.

Somewhere to Sit

If you have the space think about adding somewhere to sit while you are putting on your shoes. A chair, a small bench or a storage box with a cushion would all work well and will make the space feel more lived in.

Floors

Inevitably the floors in your hallway will get a lot of wear and tear. A hard wearing floor like a tiled floor or a wooden floor is a must. They're easy to keep clean and will last much longer than a carpet.

Adding a runner or a rug is great way of adding some texture, warmth and personality to the entry while still keeping everything easy to maintain.

Storage

Storage is important to get right in a hallway. Shoes, coats, scarfs, hats bags - the list of things that live in your hallway is seemingly endless.

If you don't have much space consider using baskets to store the smaller items. It's a great way of keeping things together in one place but still looking stylish and tidy. No one wants to come home and open the door to a messy room!

Also think about going vertical and adding shelves and wall hooks.

Adding clever and functional storage is a great way to make the most of the space and keep on top clutter.

Lighting

If you don't have a lot of space, think about adding a statement with some lighting. Having good lighting is always important, but it's also a great way of introducing warmth and personality.

Consider adding a table light that you leave on in the evenings (with an energy saving bulb of course). Having a hallway with a dimmed light and a relaxing atmosphere is welcoming when you go from room to room.

Art, Mirrors & Soft Furnishings

Don't forget your walls. A hallway is a great place to display mementos and artwork. Personal photos will instantly make your hallway more inviting and will make guest want to take in the space instead of just using it as way to get from one room to another.

Adding soft furnishings like a cushion to the bench or chair will instantly make the space more inviting and cosy. Mirrors will reflect the light and make the space feel bigger.

Little House On The Corner / Boston Magazin / Earnest Home co / My Old Country House / House And Garden / Nordic Leaves / Quercus Living / Home Life / BHG

It's official! Autumn is here and for many people, it’s a favourite season due to the lovely warm gold and rusty red colours of the leaves on the trees and the mellow sunshine. But of course it also means that winter isn't far behind, so today we're taking a look at our top five inspirational home products that will help to add warmth and cosiness over the colder months to come.

Solid Wood Dining Table for Christmas

Christmas is all about bringing family together and a dining table is an essential item. It's where everyone likes to sit and talk for hours on end, over a delicious meal or Christmas cake and coffee. There is something for everyone in our extensive collection of dining tables, which range from oak to sheesham wood. A particular favourite for Christmas is our Barham Oak extending dining table. Oak is such a durable and beautiful wood, it makes an ideal table surface. Strong and with attractive natural markings that make each table unique, it offers a warm and inviting look to your dining room.

It's a piece of furniture that will last for years and years and you can watch your family grow up around this table, able to look back on many fond Christmas memories in years to come! Whatever size your family, there's ample room to seat everyone, too with the Barham as it comes in a choice of sizes, and leather upholstered seating to accommodate 4, 6, 8 or 10 people. You can even buy an additional pair of chairs if you wish. The simple and smart elegance of the Barham means it suits virtually any décor and will give your space warmth and character.

Area Rug for Added Warmth

Cedar Rugs 24605 in Chilli by Scion, from The Rugseller.

With the ongoing trend for wooden or laminate floors, particularly in our living areas, it can feel cold underfoot in the winter. Not a problem if you have underfloor heating, but not all of us have it installed, so the next best thing is a large, cosy rug. A thick pile wool rug will give greater insulation than a thin, synthetic rug. They are more expensive, but generally better quality and will last.

You can look for a plain or patterned design that picks out colours from the rest of your room, such as your wallpaper or cushions, for a co-ordinated look.

Layer up with Throws and Blankets

Gotland Wool Blanket from Urbanara.

Treat yourself to a couple of toasty throws or blankets that you can wrap around yourself while watching TV on a winter’s evening. If you do this, you may find you can even turn down the heating a little and save on fuel bills! Not only are they great for guarding against the chill, they look gorgeous draped on your sofas and chairs, adding some texture and warming layers to your living room when you need it the most. As with a rug, a woollen blanket or throw tends to be warmer than a synthetic one, although some modern polar fleece blankets are very effective too.

A Welcoming Fireplace

The Hulanicki Art Deco by Barbara Hulanicki at Chesney's.

If you are lucky enough to have an attractive fireplace, whether an open fire with a traditional surround, or a sleek and modern multi-fuel stove, it is a key feature to add warmth and a real focal point to a room in winter. If you have a mantelpiece, don't use it as somewhere merely to put your keys, phone and loose change! It deserves to be styled with some framed photos or pictures and lovely candle holders - you could try scented candles with the smell of winter berries, cinnamon, apple and spice to add a seasonal fragrance. With modern central heating, many of us have an empty space where a fireplace used to be, but it is still possible to make it a welcoming sight; if there is a stone hearth or an opening, why not use it to display candles in gorgeous lanterns to give a beautiful evening glow? Or what about this rustic idea to use logs as tea light holders?

Image via Pinterest

Lamps and Lighting – the Finishing Touch

Cotton Ball Lights: http://www.cottonballlights.com/uk

It's important to create the right ambience in your home to make it feel extra cosy in winter and lighting is a great way to do this.

For a gentle and warm impression, these great Cotton Ball Lights give off a subtle glow and you can choose the colours of the cotton ball shades to ideally suit your décor.

With the growing trend for vintage style lighting, ambient vintage light bulbs can be just right to give a warming atmosphere and the filaments look beautiful too. So much so that you can leave them without a shade and suspend them from vintage-style cotton cables in lovely autumnal colours.

Vintage Light bulbs & accessories: http://www.dowsingandreynolds.com/

We hope these ideas have inspired you to think about the ways you can add some extra warmth and cosiness to your home. If you are interested in looking for additional ways, Pinterest - the online pinboard - https://uk.pinterest.com/ is a great source of ideas, for example you might like to create a hot chocolate station in your kitchen – great fun for the kids! And you may also find this very practical guide from netmums.com about keeping warm in winter useful: http://www.netmums.com/lifestyle/money-and-debt/keep-warm-this-winter

About Author - Antonia writes the blog Tidy Away Today and is passionate about home interiors and creating a warm and welcoming family home.

While we may wistfully look at some grand rooms with soaring ceilings and enough space to have a party for 70 in our favourite interior design magazines, the truth is, most of us live in much more modest spaces.

In fact, the average size of a home in Britain is shrinking. New builds are the worst offenders which on average, are now 2 square metres smaller than they were just 10 years ago. A report by the Royal Institute of British Architects showed that the average 1 bedroom home is only 46 square metres and a 3 bedroom home is only 88 square meters. Both fall short (4 sqm and 8 sqm, respectively) of their recommended minimum home size.

For those who live in flats, the reality is even harsher as more and more of us are trying to squeeze a normal lifestyle into smaller and smaller quarters. The number of families now living in flats increased by a whopping 25% from 2008 to 2013.

And for those of us living in the ‘average’ 3 bedroom semi-detached home, around 1 in 5 of us have been forced to make use of any additional space they have – converting lofts, cellars and garages into useable living space.

Thankfully there are tricks that interior designers have been utilising for years to make smaller spaces appear larger – both visually as well as functionally and these are tips that nearly anyone who finds themselves outgrowing their own space when it comes to changes in our lives. You may need to carve out additional office space to work from home, you may be expecting a new baby or you may be joining the ranks of a generation of adults whose parents have moved in to care for them in their older years.

So when choosing how to decorate your home to take into consideration the changing needs of your family or situation, it’s important to ensure your space works for you. My post today will take you through a few things you can try to make the best of the space you have, utilising it to the full and visually creating what will appear to be a larger space even if you can’t take down a wall or add that extension!

I believe strongly that our home can make us feel a certain way – whether that’s being filled with a sense of security and familiarity or warmed by the memories we make there – there is much to be said about the psychology of home. When the space around us feels cramped, we lose some of those good qualities and feel a bit claustrophobic. So visually creating what appears to be a larger room can promote the feelings of freedom, openness and space that we value.

When planning a room design, the first step that any interior designer will employ is to measure of the space you have – this takes into consideration where windows and doors are, electrical outlets, ceiling heights and any other architectural details that would be difficult to change. Working with these measurements keeps you from making a very easy mistake – buying furniture that is much too large and not having the room to actually use it!

So if you are planning on some furniture purchases, take the time to measure where these items will be going. It may be that the L-shaped sofa that looked great in the enormous showroom of your favourite retailer will never fit through the door of your Victorian two up – two down! One of the easiest ways to do this is to use masking tape on the floor to measure up where something will go before purchasing it.

Can you walk around the item? Is it blocking any doors from opening or is it sitting up against a radiator? Can you still open the window nearby? Is there still a traffic flow from one room to the other? It may be that your chosen sofa, table or chest of drawers is simply too large – in this case, it’s almost always better to scale down the size of your furniture to fit. Visually, this allows more ‘negative space’ around your room, psychologically making the room look larger. Functionally, you’ll get better use of the space when you can actually walk around in it! Consider smaller scaled pieces such as found in our very own Barham Oak range. These pieces are perfectly scaled for maximum storage in a more petite size.

Utilising any square space available is vital in small scale living. If you are a bibliophile, consider built in shelving to use vertical wall space or an alcove to create a small home office.

Remember pieces are multifunctional, too. A chest may do double duty as a coffee table, a day bed as a sofa can become a place for guests to sleep and trundle beds can be perfect for the kid’s sleepovers. Having a dining table where you can remove or fold down leaves when it’s not required to be at full size will also save on much needed space. Look to some architecturally creative ideas in small-space living where every available space is used for inspiration.

One other idea is to use furniture that stands up on legs. When you can see under furniture, your eye is drawn to the idea that the floor space is actually larger than it is. Combining a number of pieces with tall legs is a great way to visually increase the size of your room.

A simple trick to employ is the use of mirrors. Mirrors will visually double the width of any room with its reflection, giving a sense of the room being much grander than it is. It also bounces light around, reflecting back the light that falls on it – and a light, bright space is something many homeowners are keen to have.

To make ceiling heights appear higher and grander, consider another visual trick by hanging curtains all the way from the ceiling to the floor. Your eye will be drawn upwards, creating the illusion of more height. Too-short curtains (ones which do not hit the floor) will interrupt your eye, making a room look squatter so don’t fall into the trap of using curtains that go only to the windowsill. Ensure you hang them all the way to the ceiling and to either side of your window by at least 6-12 inches. This way, when you draw back the curtain, the entire window is exposed, allowing as much light into the room as possible.

Consistency in wall colours and flooring is something else to keep in mind. When every room is painted a different bold colour, your home will feel more disjointed. Using a neutral, pale palette throughout your home with only slight variations in tone will keep things looking more consistent. The same goes for your flooring – if you use the same flooring throughout, your home will look larger as a result without the chopping up effect that different floor patterns, materials or colours may have.

For a fresh approach, why not consider acrylic or Lucite furniture in your room? Using ‘see through’ pieces is another trick to making a space appear larger than it really is. Acrylic furniture can be used to great effect in a smaller room because visually, your eyes do not register it as being there at all. So the room appears to be larger and lighter with less furniture – consider using the now classic Louis Ghost Chair in an office space or dining room and acrylic or glass console tables or coffee tables to give the illusion of more space.

I hope these tips today give you some more ways to expand both visually and functionally the living space you have. Do you live in a smaller space? What have you done to maximise it? Be sure check out our high quality Bahram oak and Rustic oak ranges for all your petite living needs!

Image sources: Lonny / 79 Ideas / Style Me Pretty / The Decorista / Barham Oak / Frency Fancy / Index Ventures / Design Sponge / My Domaine / Planete Deco / Burlap & Lace

About Author - A freelance writer and content marketing expert, Kimberly Duran is an award-winning Interior Design blogger who chronicles her decorating journey in her blog, Swoon Worthy.

“My aim is to encourage people to bake at home, and get children involved.”- Mary Berry

Make your way to the cookery section in any high street bookshop (if you can still find one) and you’ll discover a huge range of titles devoted to baking. A quick search on Amazon brings up over 30,000 results. Britain has become a spatula-wielding nation of kneaders, stirrers, mixers and sifters and its undisputed Queen is Mary Berry.

Back in 2010, on the 17th of August, the first episode of The Great British Bake Off was aired. And its huge success has been credited with kick-starting a resurgence of home baking in the UK, as well as reviving the fortunes of the Women’s Institute, which is now enjoying its highest membership since the 1970s. Millions watch every week to see which of the amateur bakers will become Star Baker and who will succumb to a soggy bottom.

Since Bake Off began, sales of baking equipment and accessories have rocketed, baking clubs such as The Clandestine Cake Club have sprung up, and the aforementioned bookshelves are groaning under the weight of title after title about baking in all its forms. Independent bakeries selling artisan breads, cakes and biscuits are everywhere. Plus there are the numerous websites, blogs and magazines devoted to the subject.

But why? Lets’s face facts. Everyone loves cake. A lovely big slice washed down with a cup of tea or coffee is one lifes’s great pleasures, isn’t it? And how much better does it taste when the cake you eagerly devour has been baked by you? Bake Off started when the country was in the midst of recession and has inspired people all over the country to save money by baking at home and then get together with friends to share their recipes and creations.

Baking is a great way to relax, too. There’s something meditative about the process; the weighing, the measuring, the sifting. The kneading and shaping if you’re baking bread. And nothing beats the aroma of a home-made loaf or cake baking in the oven. Plus it won’t contain any of the nasty additives, preservatives and chemicals you find in most supermarket versions.

The beauty of home baking is you’re in control. You know exactly what’s going in to every cake, loaf and biscuit that you feed your family – so important when every day we are told of the damage too much sugar, salt, fat and artificial additives are doing to our bodies.

And it’s not only home baking that’s on the rise. The success of the Nutribullet and juicing in general, coupled with the trend for healthy eating means that we are becoming more aware of how important it is to stay healthy now that we are all living longer.

People have become more interested in the provenance of their food. And the growing popularity of bloggers like Ella Woodward of Deliciously Ella and food writers like Anna Jones who promote a cleaner, healthier way of cooking and eating that does away with the need for chemicals and overly processed foods shows how keen we are to embrace this new way of living. Even Jamie Oliver’s new book, Everyday Super Food, is on board.

But it’s important to inspire the next generation of bakers and cooks too. And the best way to do that is to let your children help out in the kitchen. Teach them to bake and decorate their own cakes. Let them knead and roll and shape their own bread rolls. Help them make healthy choices for their lunch boxes and tell them where ingredients come from. And remember, there’s nothing wrong with cake. In moderation.

And where does all this baking action take place? Your kitchen of course. We have everything you need to kit out your kitchen and keep all your spatulas, wooden spoons, mixing bowls and cake plates organised in style - sideboards, dressers, dining sets and more – all designed to help you achieve a country-style look and create the right atmosphere for getting your bake on.

With a cold chill in the air and October just around the corner it’s that time of year when we should all be thinking about getting our homes ready for autumn and winter.

Just a few quick projects and home updates can make a huge difference in keeping your home warm and safe. They could even save you money, too!

1. Clean Your Gutters

Talking about gutters may not be the most exciting topic ever, but they are one of the most important areas of your home to keep well maintained.

It’s essential to keep them clean and free of dirt and leaves. Just think of the amount of water that runs off your roof - if it has nowhere to drain to it’s inevitably going to cause problems like damage to your pointing or damp areas in your home.

Luckily clearing your gutters really couldn’t be easier! All you have to do is scoop out any dirt with your hands.

If you don’t fancy going up the ladder yourself, call in a professional. It’s a quick job and any money you spend now could save you much more by avoiding any damage in the future. If there’s only one thing you do before winter - this is the one!

You can find more information on clearing and maintaining your gutters here.

2. Have Your Chimneys Swept

If you have a fireplace or log burning stove in your home, you will have to get your chimney swept at least once a year. It can even be a requirement of your home insurance to do so. Having a clean chimney will ensure that everything is safe and reduce the risk of having a chimney fire. A clear flue will also ensure that all fumes can safely escape through the chimney and will allow your fire to burn better.

Now’s also the time to get any coal or wood ordered. Remember - if you live in a smoke control zone (most cities in the UK fall into that category) you can only burn approved fuel.

3. Service Your Boiler

Regular maintenance can extend the life of your boiler. Have it checked and serviced now - there’s nothing worse than having cold showers in the middle of winter!

Regular servicing will ensure that your boiler is working to the specifications of the boiler manufacturer and will reduce the risk of repairs in the future. Make sure that you use a reputable Gas Safe registered engineer to carry out any checks. You can find a list of Gas Safe engineers here.

If you want peace of mind, you could consider purchasing boiler cover. Just be sure to check what you’re purchasing as some covers may limit the amount you can claim. You may also be automatically covered by your boiler warranty or even your home insurance.

4. Fix Noisy Heating Pipes

If heating pipes haven’t been correctly fixed or insulated, it’s likely that they will make a banging noise when they heat up and cool down during the time your heating is on.

Luckily it’ a really easy problem to solve. All you have to do is lift your floorboards to access the pipes and then carefully insert some pipe felt around the areas where your pipes touch the joists. When you’ve finished it’s just a matter of nailing the floorboards back into place (watch out for the pipes!). You can read a full guide on how to stop heating pipes from making noise here.

5. Insulate

If you’ve not yet insulated your home, now’s the time to do it. Adding insulation will not only help you keep warm, it can also save you a load of money.

As so often, it’s little things that make a big difference. Just filling the gap between your floor and skirting for example can help you avoid draughts and save you money!

The top areas to consider insulating are your loft, under your floorboards and gaps under doors.

Somewhere that should also be insulated are your water pipes. In the cold weather it’s possible that the water could freeze in the pipes, expand and cause them to burst. To make sure that this doesn’t happen, just insulate them with a pipe sleeve (they’re available at all DIY stores) which you just push over the pipes. You can find a step by step guide on insulating your ceiling here or more advice on general advice on saving energy here.

6. General Check

At this time of year, it’s a good idea to give your home a general check.

Take a look at your roof, walls & pointing, painting and paving.

Check for any cracks or blisters in paint work and concrete and get it repaired now. Make sure that you have no broken roof tiles or slates that may have moved. Now’s the time to get them repaired and replaced. While you’re checking your roof take a look at the flashing, too. Are there any cracks or visible gaps in it? If so, it’ll probably need repairing sooner rather than later.

If you have cracks in your paint finishes or any concrete surfaces, you should also repair them now. If water enters the cracks and freezes in winter, it will expand and cause much more damage. A quick repair now, will save you having to tackle a much bigger repair later.

7. Outdoors

Give your garden one last big tidy. Mow the lawn a final time, plant any spring bulbs and apply a generous layer of mulch to the base of your plants to protect them when it’s cold.

You’ll probably still have to stay on top of general maintenance like clearing leaves or weeds, but now's the time to get most of the work out of the way. When you’ve finished using your lawnmower and tools, give them all a thorough clean before storing them somewhere safe till next year.

When choosing dining room furniture, it is important to ensure that it not only looks great but also that it is functional and durable as we work, we plan, we craft, we meet and we chat at our dining tables. For those reasons, hard wood is the perfect material to choose for your dining room furniture. You can make great savings by choosing one of our amazing value Dining Sets which are available in many size and design options.

Elegant, timeless and comfortable. Considering these are the hallmarks to country cottage style, there's little wonder why its popularity continues to inspire so many to create this look in their own homes. There's a celebration of the imperfections and humble, ordinary treasures are mixed effortlessly with the quality furnishings of past generations, creating an atmosphere of relaxed creativity and unpretentiousness – qualities any one of us would be proud to imbibe ourselves.

If you feel more comfortable sat at a rustic old table found in a thrift store rather than the sleek hard edges of contemporary glass and metal and prefer a wild bouquet of flowers picked from your own garden dropped into a water jug rather than 12 long-stemmed roses in a crystal vase, this look is probably one for you.

But how do you create this timeless style for your own home? My post today will share a few tips on getting the look for your living room.

Accept the patina that occurs over time

Country cottage style is all about easy relaxed living and so the natural wear and tear that comes with well-loved pieces is not only accepted but welcomed in incorporating the style. Consider matt paint finishes or get a distressed look by lightly sanding the edges of painted furniture to imitate the patina of an older piece. Pick up lovingly used pieces from thrift stores and antique shops, display vintage coloured glass, used ceramic pieces or mercury glass to finish off the look.

Consider a slipcovered sofa

Borrowed by the shabby chic look but one that's steeped in practicality, slipcovered sofas are beautiful but also incredibly practical for country living. Children and pets are no match for the delights of this look which is part of its appeal - simply pop it in the wash to clean. The relaxed style creates a lived in elegance that's informal and comfortable.

Evoke a sense of history with antiques

Mixing and matching is another hallmark of country cottage style living and there really are no hard and fast rules to what you can marry within your living room although again, you'll want to stay away from anything that's too angular or glossy here. Adding in the odd antique piece of furniture will create a layer of timelessness within your scheme and evoke a sense that your room has been collected and created over many years.

Add in faded floral patterns or tartan fabrics

Given that country cottage style is all about comfort, then textiles are of paramount importance to this look. Faded florals give a feminine country edge and lend themselves perfectly to furnishings, curtains or cushions. Mix in some tartan fabrics or stripes for a traditional country look for balance and keep the colours soft, neutral or pastel. Avoid any bright or garish colours – this is all about relaxed simplicity that's easy on the eye.

Bring the outdoors in

Embracing a country look will always revolve around nature and bringing in the beauty of the outdoors is another must-have for creating this style in your home. Wild flowers, hydrangea and faded roses are perfect either in jugs, mason jars or vintage tins, loosely arranged and informal dotted around windowsills, coffee tables or along a mantle.

Embrace your inner maximalist

Country cottage style certainly does not allow for minimalism and you should be happy with a certain amount of what I like to call, 'artfully arranged clutter'. Certainly, you don't need to fill every surface with things if you aren't comfortable with that but it's really about allowing your collections to shine - especially on any kind of open storage – and is part of the beauty of creating a personality within a country style space. Displaying ceramics, glassware, books or vintage objects helps to tell the story of you and creates a busy, enjoyable atmosphere that only adds to this look.

Layer with natural textures

Finally, consider bringing in items like woven baskets and rattan furniture, rustic oak furniture and natural wood as well as smaller items like fallen branches, seashells, pinecones and other touch-me textures into your space. The rustic qualities of natural pieces creates visual layers within a space and makes for more interesting character and creativity.

I hope these tips will help you create your dream country cottage interior! Is this a style you love? How have you brought country cottage style into your own home? I'd love to hear from you in the comments!

Checkout Our Country Style Living Room Ranges

Rustic Oak Furniture	Hayman Oak	Skiena Oak

Image sources: Jody Stewart for Period Living / Michael Norman for Heart Home Magazine / Darren Chung for Period Living / Jeremy Phillips for Period Living / Darren Chung for Period Living / Brent Darby for House to Home / David Brittain for Country Homes & Interiors via The Room Edit / Border Oak

Written by Kimberly Duran@SwoonWorthy

Sunshine, blue skies and dishes of luscious strawberries and cream herald the leisurely days of summer. This is a time for relaxation, of recharging batteries, which is why giving a fresh summery image to the living room will help achieve that relaxed summertime lifestyle.

Summer is a time for relaxing and a pretty living room bedecked in summertime colours will certainly help that task. Whether entertaining guests at home or enjoying an evening with the family, giving a seasonal touch to the living room will add interest and a talking point.

Solid wood furniture can make a tremendous difference to the home. A natural product, the gentle golden timber sheens can echo the sunshine outside, or by choosing a pale or white painted wood give an impression of coolness. Top with some flowers, candles or combine with nautical colours to make a living room that will impress.

Holiday Palettes

A colour palette of white, cool blues and warm sunny yellows introduces a nautical flavour reminiscent of seaside holidays. Then there is nature’s own palette of soft greens, chartreuse, browns and whites that evoke images of gardens, and grassy tennis courts where the thwack of balls on rackets can be heard.

Complementing Colour Schemes

The clean, simple lines of solid wood furniture complement these colour schemes. Rustic Oak, the soft yellow of pine or the coolness of beech blends perfectly into natural, summertime palettes. Light woods help to emphasise the impression of summertime brightness. Combine this with neutral coloured carpets or bare floorboards for a crisp, fresh feel.

Signature Pieces

Simply bringing one new piece of furniture into the room or repainting an existing piece will change the way the room is perceived. The minimalist feel of oak corner units can brighten up dull corners while a Constance oak coffee table encourages thoughts of summer parties and entertaining. White painted furniture with a slightly distressed, aged look immediately evokes a cool, classical elegance that fits into any lifestyle.

Mirror Magic

Mirrors are an excellent choice for jazzing up a living room. Placed in slightly shadier spots, they bring additional light and seem to extend the room space. Look for mirrors that have a light solid wood surround or a white edging to maximise this impression.

Candles for Entertaining

Votive displays placed on top of solid wood furniture look wonderful for summer evening entertaining. Create a nautical touch by filling the base of tall glass vases with sand to hold narrow candles firmly in place. Dot some seashells on surface of the sand, and use raffia to tie a colourful flower, such as a dahlia, to the outside of the vase. A saucer of water placed under each arrangement will help keep the flowers fresh and blooming all night. The flickering candles help to emphasise the sunny warmth of the wooden furniture.

Colourful Rugs

Adding a colourful rug or soft furnishings is a quick way to give a seasonal theme. It immediately catches the eye when you walk into the room, and carefully chosen colours or designs make statements about your chosen theme. Striped cushions and throws in red and blue evoke the coast, while cheerful flower designs bring the garden inside. There are a vast range of flower styles that can be used, from big bold single flower heads to sprigs of lavender and rosebuds. For the finishing touch, add a vase of fragrant flowers.

Smooth, gleaming surfaces on wood furniture immediately indicate quality and stature. This is furniture of which owners can be proud. Achieving that finish is the final stage when manufacturing furniture.

Finishing wood is an absolutely essential task since it enhances the natural beauty of the wood as well as protecting the surface. If wood is not finished correctly, then it can crack, dry or swell making it hard to open doors or drawers. A good finish prevents this, and keeps the furniture looking and feeling good.

Wood finishes

	Natural oils like Linseed, Safflower and waxes like carnauba and beeswax are the most traditional form of wood finish. Materials such as beeswax have been used for centuries on wooden furniture. There are numerous references to beeswax polishes being used to clean furniture in household management books such as those written by Mrs Beeton who was referring back to established practices. These are natural products that are easily applied, protecting and nourishing the wood. It creates a transparent finish to the wood, which can be buffed to a shiny gloss if required.
	Wood stains are designed to change the colour of the wood usually by darkening it. The stain soaks into the wood and creates a decorative finish that helps to protect the furniture. The end result can be either a matte or a glossy finish especially when combined with a beeswax polish.
	Wood dyes will create a more subtle colouring. These can be mixed to match a desired shade, and are often used to even out the colour across a piece of furniture. It is a popular way of enhancing natural colours to create a matte finish.
	Varnishing gives a high gloss finish. These can be either coloured or transparent finishes that will highlight the colour of the wood and protect it. Varnish does take longer to apply, as it needs time to dry. Often several layers are applied to create the desired finish.
	Shellac and French polishing requires some skill in application. French polishing is a special technique used mainly with shellac. It was regarded as the best finish for fine furniture from the eighteenth century onwards. This is a technique that creates an extremely high gloss with a very deep colour. It basically involves applying lots of thin layers of liquid shellac (a natural product derived from trees and insects) using a cloth lubricated with oil. Each layer has to dry before the next layer is applied.
	Lacquer is another popular wood finish. It can be either transparent or coloured and creates a very hard, durable finish. Lacquer is stronger than shellac. Both glossy and matte surfaces can be created, depending on the amount of polish involved. Japanning is a special type of lacquer finish, which results in a darker, almost black wood.

Painting and upcycling

In recent years, there has been a trend towards painting furniture. This is partly due to the growth of up cycling techniques popularised on TV programmes, home interiors magazines and within the retro chic community. Changing the wood finish by painting the furniture in different colours often undertaken by interior designers who are looking to create a specific style or restoring older furniture. It is a way of changing the colour and finish of a chair, table, chest of drawers or other item. Best undertaken with solid wood furniture, it often involves painting furniture to give a classic shabby chic look, complete with hints of white or gold paint.

There are several methods by which wood finishes are applied. A clean cloth is used to apply beeswax or oil based finishes and then is gently rubbed into the wood surface. Paints and varnishes are applied using brushes, while a spray gun is sometimes used to create a paint finish, especially if only a thin covering is required. Before applying any finish, it is important to make sure that the surfaces are clean and free from any dust.

Maintenance of a wood finish

Regular polishing with a natural product such as beeswax will maintain the colour and finish of the wood. It helps to feed the wood, and keep it in perfect condition while resisting dust and dirt. Polishing furniture should always form part of a regular household cleaning routine as it enhances the lustre, and gleam of the wood while stressing its elegance and your own personal style.

Choosing furniture made from solid Acacia wood with sheesham is an ideal investment for the home. The gorgeous tones and shades ensure that the wood will blend into any furniture styles, while always looking sophisticated and elegant. This is furniture that evokes heritage, style and sophistication.

Acacia wood is one of the prettiest exotic woods used to make veneered or solid wood furniture. With shades varying from light amber to dark almost mahogany coloured wood, there are veneers to suit every type of décor. It is becoming increasingly popular due to the fact that it is an extremely versatile wood.

Acacia – a massive variety

There are actually over 1,300 different species of acacia trees grown worldwide. Acacia is native to Australia, but it is also found throughout Asia, Pacific Islands, America and Africa. There are many names under which Acacia trees are known such as the koa, Highland tamarin and the Australian Blackwood, Asian Walnut but all come from the same genus – Acacia.

By far the most valuable of all the Acacia trees is the Australian blackwood which grows to around 148 feet (45 m) high. With its light coloured sapwood and rich brown heartwood, the wood from these trees is regarded as highly desirable for furniture manufacture. Koa acacia wood on the other hand comes from Hawaii and is cut down when around 10 to 15 years old. Red acacia is another version and this comes from northern and western Africa. Acacia wood is incredibly durable and hard. It is often compared to teak or American Walnut due to its colouring and strength. It is long lasting, water resistant and has wonderful grain designs. Acacia wood is also very fragrant.

Ancient peoples used Acacia furniture

Acacia wood is well suited to the manufacture of furniture and has been used for this purpose for hundreds of years. Red acacia wood was used to make sarcophagi in Ancient Egypt – it is also said to be the wood used to make the Ark of the Covenant and Noah’s Ark! The fine texture, smooth finish and beautiful shades of gold, amber and browns make this a justly popular wood for furniture. It has a rustic, warm charm while its colour and lustre can vary according to lighting conditions. Rarer acacia woods are often used as a veneer, with a combination of acacia and sheesham wood being common.

Furniture made from Acacia wood will blend perfectly into any lifestyle or décor from shabby chic with its grandeur and whitewashed tones to antique, elegant and sophisticated décor. The beauty and smooth tones of the wood, combined with the lovely colours evokes images of respectability, professionalism and tasteful décor.

Fast growing and sustainable

A fast growing tree, Acacia woods are generally regarded as being an extremely sustainable wood source especially with regard to the lighter coloured woods. The speed of growth can be very fast indeed. An acacia falcate tree planted in Sabah, Malaysia is recorded as having grown 35 feet in just 13 months, averaging around an extra an inch per day in height. Such growth speeds reflect the fact that many of the Acacia species are growing in tropical climates that provide nutrition and rainfall throughout the year. This provides an almost perpetual growing season.

High quality, strong and long lasting – solid wood furniture is an investment. It will age well achieving a patina of age that will appeal to everyone. Hardwood is ideal for making furniture simply because it is so long lasting. It is strong enough to create any type of furniture and be carved into ornate patterns. Solid wood mahogany furniture is becoming rare due to environmental issues.

Softwood & Hardwood

Solid wood furniture is made from either hardwood or softwood. Softwoods such as pine and cypress have a lighter appearance, are easier to cut and lighter to move around. Softwoods will scratch much more easily than hardwoods. Hardwood comes from timber that has a dense, very heavy texture. Museums worldwide contain examples of hardwood furniture made hundred of years ago which was sourced from trees such as oak, sheesham and mahogany. The harder the wood, the more difficult it is to mark.

Unique Furniture

No two pieces of wood are ever the same. Even wood from similar species such as oak can vary slightly in colour depending on the age of the tree, the weather conditions that it has experienced and the way it was treated at the sawmill and by the furniture manufacturers. The size of an individual piece of wood varies considerably. Some trees are quite small, while others such as oak can grow to great heights. The older the wood, the greater the number of ring marks in the grain.

What To Expect When Buying Hardwood Furniture

Wood has natural variations in the grain depending on age and environmental conditions during its lifetime Knots look attractive against the grain. Medullary rays may be present. These are silvery lines or stripes, which give a distinctive appearance to oak hardwood. Holes, cracks and pin marks may appear over time especially if the wood is not cared for properly Solid wood will expand slightly when wet or damp, contracting in dry conditions. Consequently, most solid wood furniture contains tiny expansion gaps to allow for this expansion/contraction process. Do not expect a uniform appearance

Caring For Hardwood Furniture

Regular polishing will keep wood furniture in good condition. Solid wood will expand slightly when wet or damp, contracting in dry conditions. Most solid wood furniture contains tiny expansion gaps to allow for this expansion/contraction process. Cracks and scratches can be treated and restored to its original sparkling form Solid wood will expand slightly when wet or damp, contracting in dry conditions. Most solid wood furniture contains tiny expansion gaps to allow for this expansion/contraction process

Pro’s & cons of different furniture types

Is Solid Wood Sustainable?

Wood is a natural product. Sustainably managed forests situated worldwide are used to supply timber for furniture products. The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) ensures that for each tree that is cut down, another tree is planted. This now covers over 45m hectares of forests. This maintains habitats and meets the needs of local communities. Reputable furniture companies will know exactly where their furniture was sourced.

Choosing solid wood furniture is an investment that is worth making. This is quality furniture which will last a lifetime, always look good and creates the immediate impression of luxury. The stunning sheen of solid wood is incredibly beautiful, adding lustre to every room within the home. It ensures high quality, sustainable products which will look perfect in any home.

Sustainability is extremely important in the modern world. Trees are vital the continuation of life on earth so ensuring no timber is wasted is important. Combining veneers with solid wood makes sense.

How to choose environmentally friendly furniture

Furniture bearing the FSC logo indicates timber and the veneers have been sourced from forests and plantations that have been managed according to environmentally friendly criteria. New trees have been planted to replace those that have been cut down to provide the furniture.

However, some trees are rarer than others, and may grow much more slowly. This means that the wood is more expensive. Ebony is a beautiful dark brown, almost black wood, but trees are slow to grow. Manufacturing furniture solely out of ebony is not cost effective. For such woods, the alternative is to use a veneer.

What is a Veneer?

Veneers are composed of a very thin layer of timber cut in different ways from the timber log to create varying types of grain, some showing knots others showing growth rings. The majority of timber veneers are around 3mm thick. To create a veneer, the timber is cut into very thin slices and fixed to solid wood such as Pine, Oak, Ash, Larch or Wenge. The strips of veneer pattern matched, perhaps with a mirror image, or slip matched. All kinds of colour shades can be created including reds and yellows. Narrow strips of veneer are used around the edges of furniture to create a nice finish. A key advantage to this technique is that there is no waste involved. All the wood from a timber log is used. High quality veneers such as those sourced from Decopanel can even be used to create curved surfaces.

Technical specifications are now very high, involving glues that are not based on formhaldehyde. Thick veneers can be treated almost like solid wood, coping with sandblasting and even scratches can be removed. Veneers can be UV lacquered to protect the surface against damage or stains. This process oils the surface giving a very natural, warm appearance. It has enabled designers to use veneers in ever more innovative ways to make impressive items of furniture such as wrapping veneer cherry wood moulds to the top of granite columns at the Heaven Bent Ranch, Colorado.

Sustainability

This is a very sustainable option. It provides the consumer with the option of buying furniture made from very beautiful woods at affordable prices, yet without cutting down too many trees. Using a veneer involves using less wood. The amount of veneered wood needed to cover one side of a piece of furniture is far less than if used as solid wood. This makes the available quantities of a specific type of wood go much further. Recycling wood is another option. Decospan upcycles reclaimed wood by turning them into veneers. Oak railway trucks have become unique oak vintage veneers possessing an instant, authentic aged appearance perfect for furniture.

Proven Techniques

Using veneers in furniture has a long history. It is a proven technique that has been used for centuries as it dates back to the ancient Egyptian civilisations. Veneered furniture can be found in great houses, castles and manors worldwide as it has been used by top furniture manufacturers throughout history.

Perfect Choice

Wood is a naturally sustainable product as it has less impact on energy, air and water pollution and creates far less waste product. Incorporating veneers with solid wood is a sustainable option. The resultant furniture can look extremely stunning as it opens up a wider range of colours and shades when manufacturing products. Sustainable and beautiful, veneered solid wood furniture is an ideal choice for people wishing to choose unique, environmentally friendly furniture for their home.

So what exactly is meant by veneered wood?

A veneer is created from a very thin layer of timber. In some cases, the veneer can be almost paper thin. Hardwood veneers are as thin as 1/64 of an inch, with most veneers are around 3mm thick which look like typing paper, it is almost transparent, and can never be sanded, refinished or significantly touched up if damaged. Modern furniture is often made from manufactured wood products such as MDF or plywood that has been covered with a thin veneer of natural timber. This layer has been glued in layers to make it light weight and strong. Variations on the veneer is common and depends on where the tree is from and the climate conditions in that environment both affect the veneer’s structure and colour. All kinds of wood are used to create the veneer layer. Sometimes expensive, rare woods are used as a veneer on top of a cheaper wood. Typical base woods that are combined with veneers include Pine, Oak, Ash, Beech, Cherry, Larch, Maple, American Walnut, Teak, Fir and Wenge. The resultant material can only be used for flat surfaces such as the tops, sides and bases of furniture. Trying to shape or cut veneered wood will damage the veneer. Furniture made out of veneered wood possesses the outward appearance of wood complete with the grain and smooth finish but it’s not actually solid wood.

Long history

Using veneered wood to make furniture does have a long history. The Ancient Egyptians were the first to pioneer this technique. They used it extensively to create furniture and sarcophagi. Over the centuries, veneering techniques have also led to the creation of very beautiful marquetry designs in which furniture has been inlaid with a variety of light and dark woods to form pictures or geometrical images.

Ideal furniture

Veneered wood combined with a solid wood base makes ideal furniture as it gives strength and beauty. This is the most sustainable and environmentally friendly way of enjoying beautiful rare woods such as ebony within the home. Decospan are one of the top companies creating high quality veneers using woods like Hemlock, Iroko, Lacewood and Zebrano to be made into furniture.

Caring for veneered furniture

Wipe up spills quickly Use a soft cloth and beeswax furniture polish to maintain a good shine Scratches need to be carefully refinished

How to recognise veneered furniture

Looking underneath, behind and inside veneered furniture will show a different type of surface If you see a large panel that has a repeating grain pattern, it may be a veneer. Picking up the furniture and looking at the base will usually show a layered or thick cottonwool effect pattern indicating the presence of plywood or MDF timber. Veneered furniture will be lighter and much easier to move around Wood Identification Guide

Advantages of veneered furniture Extensive range of colours and finishes Very beautiful Opportunity to have rare woods in your home High quality veneers are very stable and long lasting Uses solid wood as a base Creates new design possibilities

Disadvantages Veneers may occasionally peel away. This mainly happens with poor quality veneers where the glue has lost its strength. Scratches and marks may be harder to remove due to the depth of the veneer and may need specialist attention

Such disadvantages can be overcome by buying quality furniture as any problems are due to poor manufacturing and workmanship.

Overview

Veneered wood is very eco-friendly as it allows more economical use of timber, especially unusual or rare woods. Every scrap of veneer is used. Unlike solid wood, veneers cannot be carved or ornamented. Instead attention focuses on the grain and the sheer beauty of the veneer. Often veneers can provide a wider range of colours and textures than might otherwise be available. Solid wood combined with a pretty veneer can create an eye catching piece of furniture possessing style and timeless elegance. Ultimately it is up to you to decide just what you prefer and what would suit your home best.

Veneered wood provides a wonderful way to obtain special woods and very special furniture for your home. Extremely eco-friendly, it allows you to enjoy the sheer beauty and grain of unusual, rare woods in a vast range of shades. Solid wood combined with a pretty veneer creates eye catching furniture possessing style, elegance and character. It is a winning combination.

What is engineered wood?

The answer is no - it is not solid wood. Furniture made from engineered or composite wood is a completely different product. This is wood that has been manufactured to look like wood. Appearances can be deceptive. It may have the outward appearance of wood with grain lines but unlike solid wood, it is not a natural product. Engineered wood is a product that has been created in a factory using a mixture of materials such as wood fibres, sawdust, glues and chemicals. The most basic type of engineered wood – MDF (medium density fibreboard) is simply sawdust and fibres held together with glue. All the materials are bonded together using extreme pressure and high temperatures and can then be cut and sawn like timber.

Plywood & Veneered wood

Plywood and Veneered wood are slightly different in that they are created from strips of wood. Plywood comprises several thin layers of wood that are glued together. Veneered wood is a thin layer of wood glued on top of a core material, which may be lower grade timber, plywood or MDF.

Problems with Engineered Wood

The problem with these types of wood is that they are much easier to damage. Scratches and water stains cannot be repaired. There is an added risk of cracking and warping occurring within modern centrally heated homes as engineered wood does not expand and contract like natural wood does. Nor can this type of wood be used outside the house for example on the patio. It will soak up water and may even start to disintegrate. Furniture made from engineered wood does not last as long as solid wood furniture, and has to be replaced much more frequently.

How to identify engineered wood

Apart from reading labels carefully, you can also identify engineered wood by the weight of the furniture. It will be much lighter than solid wood furniture. Look too at the grain of the wood. The exterior and interior of the furniture will not match. Lifting the furniture and looking at the base of the legs is another good indicator. A collection of uniform layers is common to Plywood, while a dense mix resembling cotton wool indicates the use of MDF.

Advantage of solid wood

Opting for solid wood furniture avoids these problems. Solid wood retains its appearance, achieving a lovely patina as it ages. Any damage that occurs can be easily repaired and the furniture restored to its original appearance.

Is Solid Wood Eco-friendly

Environmentally, solid wood furniture is much more eco-friendly. Apart from being sourced from managed forests, solid wood furniture uses very little energy during the production process. Engineered wood, on the other hand, uses a tremendous amount of energy as well as potentially toxic materials since formaldehyde – a known carcinogen – often forms part of the glue compounds used during the manufacturing process.

Why Solid Wood is best

Solid wood is by far a much better choice for homeowners. It may cost more than furniture made out of engineered wood, but will last much longer making it much better value for money. Engineered wood furniture, no matter how well made, can never possess that patina of age, and luxurious elegance that solid wood furniture achieves. It will simply never look as good. If you want to want a chic, upmarket homestyle that says quality and elegance to everyone who enters your home – then solid wood furniture is essential.

If you'd like more furniture inspiration, visit our website to view our complete ranges of oak, pine and sheesham wood furniture.

Sheesham Beds

Sheesham Bedside Tables

Sheesham Blanket Boxes

Sheesham Bookcases

Sheesham CD & DVD Units

Sheesham Chests

Sheesham Coffee Tables

Sheesham Console Tables

Sheesham Dining Sets

Sheesham Wood Dressers

Sheesham Lamp Tables

Sheesham Wood Mirrors

Sheesham Nest of Tables

Sheesham Sideboards

Sheesham Wardrobes

What Kind Of Wood Is Sheesham?

Sheesham wood trees take 22 years to grow to maturity. They are extremely large, rising to around 30 metres in height and can have a diameter of up to one and a half metres. The resultant wood is heavy, dense and water resistant possessing a natural rich straight grain, which explains why it is a favourite with artisans creating furniture. In a survey of the Wood Based Handicraft Industry in Rajasthan, it was discovered that 34.43% of furniture companies used Sheesham wood compared to just 8.60% for teak.

The colour of the timber can vary considerably depending on the part of the tree that is being used. The heartwood or centre of the tree provides the most dense timber possessing a gravity of between 0.7-0.8%. This can vary in colour from gold to dark brown, whereas the sapwood on the outside of the tree is white to pale brown. The majority of Sheesham furniture is made from the heartwood thus making it very strong and high quality. It is ideal for furniture evoking a sense of heritage and distinction.

Why Buy Sheesham Wood Furniture

Sheesham Wood is actually one of the strongest hardwoods anyone can buy. It is stronger than teak and is regarded as a highly desirable wood. With its subtle variations in tone and variable grain patterns, sheesham wood furniture will bring warmth and exotic style into your home. Perfect for creating a themed look or using as striking signature pieces in combination with other furniture, each of our two sheesham wood furniture collections has have their own unique characteristics. Our Jali Sheesham collection boasts ornate iron portcullis work and wrought iron insets on many pieces to add a bit of drama. While our Cube Sheesham collection is distinctly modern and would look incredible against lighter decorating schemes.

Is Sheesham Wood Sustainable?

Sheesham wood is widely grown within India and is sourced from carefully managed plantations. Timber is cut from the plantations on a rotation basis so that the wood supply is sustainable. New trees are planted to replace those that are cut down for use as timber.

Cube Sheesham

Jali Sheesham