Home Living & Lifestyle Blog from PineSolutions.co.uk

Nine Amazing Bookcase Designs

2012-01-23T11:48:00.001Z

How To Arrange Your Furniture. Properly.

2012-01-20T17:35:00.000Z

Let's be honest, reorganizing a room is actually quite fun. It's like creating a brand new room! But it's surprisingly easy to do it badly. Instead of refreshing the room and making it new again, you actually make it kind of awkward and inefficient. That's the last thing you want to come home to.

Try following these essential tips next time you want to have a reshuffle:

1. Know The Space

This is really important. I know plenty of people of who have designed rooms only to realise that the space where they put the bookcase in is actually the space they need to open the door. I'm not even joking. A similar thing can happen with radiators or power sockets. It's okay, we've all done it. So try drawing your room first. Measure the space, draw in all the non moveable fixtures (including doors and windows) then measure everything you want to put in the room. It's much easier to find out that something doesn't fit on paper than to discover the very same thing when trying it for real.

2. The Pathway

Not to get too spiritual here, but you need to know your pathway in order to achieve true inner harmony. No, wait, don't leave! Maybe I should rephrase. If your room is being used as a pathway to another room, then you need to consider space. Getting from the hallway to the kitchen shouldn't be an obstacle course so make sure you leave about 3 feet of space to walk in. It's not just about getting from one room to another either. A user at About.com has shared some useful specs on the amount of space you should leave between furniture pieces. Don't treat it as gospel, because you've got do what feels right, but it's a good starter for 10.

3. Symmetry vs Asymmetry

The mistake here is to think that your room should be one or the other. Okay, so technically if your room is asymmetrical then it can't also be symmetrical, but just wait! Let me explain. Most rooms can be divided into sections. Think about how your room is used, you'll find that the sections are self evident. Maybe your living room has some nice inward facing club chairs for coffee and conversation. That's one section. The sofa you use to chill out and watch TV, that's another. If you've got a dining table in your living room, that's another. Now, experiment with symmetry (or lack thereof). For a cool modern look, try to keep everything quite uniform and aligned, but for something more casual, you should try to break the mold a bit. It might be easier to explain if I draw it. It's going to be crude, so bear with me::

See how you've basically divided the room into 'living room' and 'dining room'? Now, there's absolutely nothing wrong with this design and it could work really well, but for me, it looks a bit too organised. From this plan view, it looks a bit too much like tetris. I much prefer something like this instead:

See how the asymmetry of the room on the whole creates a sense of motion which includes all the furniture pieces? Also, look how much space you've effectively freed up for accessories? Use those corners wisely to display artwork, lighting or flora. In the first example, any accessory you add to the room would have broken the hard symmetry. Tricky balance, isn't it? By the way, I did those floor plans on FloorPlanner.com which is hugely useful resource for that kind of thing.

4. Light Your Dining Table

When possible, always align your dining table with the light sources in your room. That means you line it up with your window and then place it under the lights. If you're lucky enough to live in a house with a nicely symmetrical room, then the lights and windows should line up anyway, you just need to place the dining table in line with them both. If you live in a nice country cottage where the lights and windows don't line up, then we'd say the lights are most important. Placing your dining table under this direct light will displace the light evenly and show off the table as the centerpiece of the room, as it should be.

5. The Right Focus

Creating the right focal point is really easy, but it doesn't always happen on its own. Sometimes your room is just dominated by the wrong elements. Usually unnecessary clutter. The primary focal point should usually be self evident; in the bedroom it should be the bed. In the dining room, it should be the dining table. But what do you do it your focus is drawn elsewhere? Rugs are a great way to anchor parts of the room. Try it in the living room to anchor your seating area and keep it separate from your dining area. Lighting is an easy way to draw the eye. Lamps beside the bed are a good way to draw attention to the bed. Symmetry is important in the bedroom too. Equal space either side of the bed draws the focus towards the bed itself. You could also put some stuff on the wall to draw the eye. Try to keep it appropriate, like a mirror in the bedroom or a clock in the living room.

6. Tables at Hand

Wherever you've got seating, you should have a table at nearby. This means side tables, coffee tables and console tables. It can be tempting to discard that coffee table and have all your surface space at the edge of the room, but you'll only find that you've boxed yourself in and made the room smaller. A coffee table should be about 14 to 18 inches from your sofa. End tables should nearly adjoin the end of your sofa (always leave a few inches of space between the sofa and any other object, be it the wall, a table etc). A table for each seat increases the effectiveness of a room. If you're sitting in a room where you put cups on the floor next to your sofa then I'm afraid you're doing it all wrong... In our opinion.

7. It's All About Flow

As a friend of mind insists on reminding me that interior design 'is like sculpting'. Though it pains me to say it, she's right in many ways. Scale, balance and depth are all very important elements to make your room flow. The best way to create this flow is by using furniture pieces of different sizes. Use them to triangulate. When I say 'triangulate', that's just a fancy way of saying put more furniture in one part of the room than the other. For example, imagine a large bed, two bedsides either side, and a painting on the wall above. You see the triangle? It works on the other axis as well. Think about small dining table with two chairs. Don't place them on opposite sides of the table! Put one at 12 o'clock and another at 3 o'clock et voila: triangle. It really works, give it a try.

8. Not Stealing; Adapting

Unless you want to create something completely off the wall, odds are you already know how you want your room to feel, even if you don't know how it's going to look. So draw upon everything you've ever seen. Movies and TV are a great resource. Maybe you're favourite TV character has a great living room that you wish you could have? Well, in reality, it's probably not so hard to replicate it. I kind of wish I had the same living room as Sherlock Holmes... Design magazines are great, but they tend to be a bit high end with expensive features, so instead try the internet instead. Specifically, try online retailers. It might sounds a bit odd, but most online retailers will have fairly down-to-earth photography on their site. I know we do. These photos are designed to show the best use for each furniture piece, so they're a great resource to draw upon.

That's all I've got for now. Add your own tips in the comments!

PineSolutions January Sale Starts Today!

2010-12-22T15:51:00.001Z

The Must Haves of Interior Design

2010-12-17T14:12:00.002Z

Everyone has dreams, and having a house with a supportive spouse and kids is common in every such dream. Despite this similarity, every house is different. Why is that so? If every home is like any other home, why do all of them not feel like the safe haven where we belong? Well the answer is simple…the following interior design ideas will help you.

Every person has a different choice, and when that choice is applied in decorating each house, it brings out different shapes for each one built from similar ingredients (concrete, cement, etc). Interior decoration beautifies your houses, thus making it your personal cozy heaven.

Interior decoration follows a systematic and coordinated methodology to achieve a structural interior environment. However, its goal is fulfilled if and only if the needs and resources of each client are satisfied. Keeping this in view, interior decoration must have the following qualities:

Creativity

Decorating is a form of art plus a creative process. It is a way to express your soul and bring out your ideas by applying them to the environment around you. Using your imagination, you can dress the space around you in such a way that it truly includes subtle hints of your personality.

Personalization

Interior decoration must have a touch that instantly reflects your personality. This is something difficult. The reason behind this is that most of the people sit back and let the societal norms overcome their personal needs. They give up on their preferences for something they might not like. So the best thing to do is to begin by exploring yourself because that will help you yield an environment that is much more powerful and inspiring.

Bring In Passion

Have you seen an image of a house that has made your heart beat a little faster, that makes your mind spark with new ideas and decorate your house with passion? To have that touch of passion, you need to be unpredictable and innovative. Bring in a hint of glamour in your house to give it a wow factor. This can be done by decorating each of your rooms with lavish fabrics, exotic colors and ground-breaking themes.

Vibrant colors

What would it be like if the world was colorless? The answer is “boring”. Colors do the same job as a smile to a sad face. Hence, the most common interior decorating dilemma is choosing the right colors for your home. However, there is no hard and fast rule to stick to particular colors. Pay attention to your own reaction to various colors and choose the color that truly defines you.

The Element of Comfort

While decorating your house, you need to understand the difference between empty and crammed. Leaving large spaces undecorated and cluttering small places with everything will give your house an insane atmosphere. Stick to your comfort zone and get it clear that decorating is not just about the items in a space. Rather it is about the design and the pattern that emerges when you arrange them.

The dream to have a house of your own is accomplished only when you step inside, and get the feeling that you are home. So, the expression of your inner being is what interior decoration must actually have!

Content provided by Design Shuffle which is a social media site filled with interior design ideas from top tier design talent around the world. Best of all, registration is completely free.

Free Delivery All Weekend at PineSolutions.co.uk

2010-12-10T13:03:00.003Z

This weekend we are offering free delivery on all orders. There is no minimum spend limit, so take advantage of this offer now and tell your friends!

Visit the PineSolutions website

12 Days of Christmas Sale Starts Today

2010-12-01T16:25:00.002Z

Today see's the launch of the PineSolutions 12 Days of Christmas Sale. Every day, until the 12th of December, we will be bringing you an exclusive offer on a wide range of products.

Today's offer features a fantastic 20% off all mirrors with discount code SNOW20.

Visit our 12 Days of Christmas Sale.

Warm up Your Home’s Decor For Winter

2010-11-17T11:35:00.001Z

As the nights draw in, and the temperatures drop, the light, airy feel you wanted in summer can start to feel cold and empty, so why not think about a few simple touches that could really warm up your home this winter.

Image: Michelle Meiklejohn / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

First, check out the fantastic range of modern textiles that are available online, and get some extra cushions and throws for your lounge, to make sure that comfort is always available. You can even invest in some funky draught excluders to match, and combine style and cosiness!

Why not invest in a new modern fireplace, with a funky gas-powered element to create a great contemporary look that is also practical and warm. Or, if you have a more traditional home, why not rearrange your furniture to make your fireplace the focal point, so that you and your family can gather round the fire for a pleasant evening of board games or film-watching.

So, as the winter creeps ever onward, make sure that you keep up, and ensure that your home doesn’t feel cold and uninspiring, and you’re sure to weather the coldest season in style.

Inspirational Lighting Ideas

2010-11-16T16:14:00.000Z

Lighting can be a great way to alter the look and feel of a room. There are so many different ways you can customise the lighting in your bedroom/living room to great effect. Take a look at these stunning room shots and see what can be achieved with various different lighting styles.

Spot lights add focus to a particular area

Under floor lighting idea

Bright, ambient lighting

Dark lighting idea

Colourful lighting

[Via]

How to Decorate with the Colour Red

2010-11-10T16:12:00.004Z

Decorating a room with the colour red can be a daunting task and can easily turn into something that resembles a horror film. Decorating with red can be as simple as adding a subtle accessory or you could go to the other end of the scale and paint a whole room red, either way there are a few helpful hints that can be applied when decorating with the colour red.

What does the colour red mean?

Are you ready for some psychology? The colour red conjures up different feelings for different people, but, the two main definitions of this are love, stimulating, warmth, emotion, passion and on the other side there is anger, danger, adventure. Red draws attention as it is a bold colour and can be quite overpowering. Subtle red accessories can draw attention and focus to a certain area (this works with clothes as well).

Which room works well with red?

Red has been known to work well in dining rooms as the colour promotes sociable moods perfect for entertaining guests. Living rooms with signature red pieces such as sofas, picture frames and accent walls work really well as they attract attention. This also applies to the bedroom as Red is a stimulating colour it should only be used sparingly as the colour evokes passion and energy, which may keep you awake for longer.

Using red with other colours

As any designer will tell you, red is opposite green on the colour wheel so these two work really well together. Red and black work well to create a bold and dramatic scene; red and gold is seen as adding a traditional charm to a room. Blues and yellows can be used with red for a more modern and lively feel. Different shades of red can work in any room. A dark red can be powerful and domineering whilst a soft red can be calm and welcoming. Do some research to find out the many different shades of red and which one will work best in your home.

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3 Easy Steps to Create a Modern Bedroom

2010-11-09T16:02:00.003Z

Are you looking to spruce up your bedroom and give it a modern look? Follow our quick and easy steps to give your bedroom that modern feel.

1) Space - Getting rid of clutter and creating space is the quickest and easiest way to give your bedroom a modern feel. Do you really need two chest of drawers, two bedside tables, wardrobe, dresser, TV and bed all in the same room? Make sure you can see at least 85% of the floor (Yes, you will have to pick your clothes up) as this will make the room look bigger.

2) Accessorise your Bed – A bed shouldn’t just have two pillows and a duvet. Small subtle changes can make a big impact on the look and feel of your bedroom. A crisp white linen set can be completely transformed with a signature cushion or a colourful throw. Don’t be afraid to try something different.

3) Colour – Give your walls a new colour. Changing the colour of the walls will be noticeable and can have the biggest impact on your bedroom. Consider light blues, greens, or grey as well as the crisp clean look of white walls. All of these colours look and feel modern and can be co-ordinated with your accessories.

Why Not Try Something Different In Your Hall

2010-11-03T11:31:00.002Z

The hall is the first room that visitors see when arriving at your home, and it can really set the scene for their experience of your home, so it’s worthwhile putting in some effort to make sure that you are really getting the most out of it.

Most halls are pretty drab in colour, which is a shame, since with a bold shade, you can conjure up a really dramatic effect – try eggplant, lime green, burnt orange or turquoise to really make an impact and welcome guests to your home in style. Another consideration is furniture – if you have the space, why not put in a comfy armchair where you can read your post? This will also have the effect of making the hall feel less like a corridor and more like an integral part of the house, where you may want to spend time instead of just bustling through.

So make sure you think creatively and don’t settle for a boring hall with monotonous colours and sparse furniture – after all, a hall is a room like any other and deserves your attention.

Top 10 Tips for a Good Night’s Sleep

2010-11-02T16:31:00.001Z

Getting a good night’s sleep is becoming even more essential now that the long winter nights have set in. Take a look at our top tips for a perfect nights sleep.

1. Use black out curtains/blinds to ensure that your room is totally dark. Your eyes can sense sunlight in the morning causing you to wake up early. Keep the light out and sleep through until it is time to wake up.

2. Take the TV out of your bedroom. Watching TV in bed keeps your brain active and awake which will it make it harder for you to drift off to sleep.
3. Invest in a quality double bed or king-size bed. A solid bed frame will provide maximum support throughout the night.
4. Combine a decent bed with the right mattress. A wide range of mattresses are available and offer different firmness ratings. Take time to read about the different features of each mattress as this is one of the most important elements of a good nights sleep.
5. Try and go to bed at a regular time. This will help train your body to recognise that it is time to switch off and go to sleep each evening.
6. Avoid cigarettes, caffeine and chocolate late in the evening as these will all perk you up when you need to be heading the other way and feeling tired.
7. Try and keep your bedroom relatively cool. The optimum temperature is around 16-18 Celsius. If your room is too hot or too cold this will make you uncomfortable in bed which means you will be awake for longer.
8. Have a warm bath 30-45 minutes before you go to sleep. The change in body temperature from hot to cool is what helps the body drift off to sleep.
9. Do some physical exercise in the evening. Sitting down all day at the office and then laying on the sofa all evening will make you feel sluggish. The lack of stimulation for the brain can actually make it harder to fall asleep.
10. Set an alarm as this will wake you up in the morning so you don’t have to gamble on waking up in time to go to work. Don’t set your favourite song as your alarm tone as eventually you will associate that song with waking up and will start to severely dislike that track!

Let us know below if you have any top tips for getting a good nights sleep.

Table Vase - Simple but Effective

2010-11-01T12:54:00.004Z

It is often the simple ideas that are the best, and this brilliant customisation is no exception. A flower and an empty glass jar has been used to create a unique 'table vase' that gives the impression that a colourful flower is growing out of the table. A really impressive modification that will brighten up any dining table.

*This will require drilling a hole in the centre of your dining table. Ask permission before drilling.

[VIA]

Not Your Average.... Bike Furniture

2010-10-07T11:13:00.003+01:00

What do you do with an old bike that you cant ride anymore? Well, a new range of furniture has been created by designer Andy Gregg who takes old bicycles and creates some really impressive pieces of furniture including tables, chairs, barstools and sofas. His designs use train and automobile windows for tabletops, and surplus automotive seat-belt webbing for seating upholstery. Some really interesting designs here and a great way to add an interesting peice of furniture into your home. Here are a few examples of his work.

http://www.bikefurniture.com/

A Real Narnia Wardrobe

2010-10-01T12:00:00.001+01:00

It appears that the film Narnia was real after all. Well ok it wasn't, but an amazing piece of design and creativity has seen a childs playroom hidden in the back of a wardrobe. This is an extremely cool customisation and brings to life everyones fantasy of opening a wardrobe to find a magical land (Or playroom full of toys).

[Via]

Autumn Clearance Sale - Up to 65% off Selected Lines

2010-09-28T16:09:00.000+01:00

The PineSolutions Autumn Clearance is taking place right now. With over £500,000 of stock included and upto 65% off selected items, this is one of our biggest ever sales. Head over to the PineSolutions website and take advantage of this fantastic offer.

Beautiful Loop Coffee Table

2010-09-27T17:16:00.001+01:00

This coffee table is such a simple an elegant design that really grabs your attention. This amazing design comes from Brazilian company, BaitaDesign, who have used a simple concept to create such a brilliant coffee table. The perfectly aligned spiral flows to create two seperate table tops to place the usual coffee table kit. A great design here and one that we are hugely impressed with.

[Via]

Choosing the Right Wardrobe

2010-09-27T17:02:00.002+01:00

The right wardrobe can provide you with a practical storage solution whilst bringing a charm and character into your home. Deciding on the right wardrobe can be tough due to the vast range of options available. Read on for our guide on how to choose the right wardrobe.

Double wardrobes – This style of wardrobe is one of the most popular choices due to its versatile nature. Double wardrobes are designed with men and women in mind, as gents double wardrobes tend to have a double drawer at the bottom and women’s wardrobes feature a full length hanging space to allow enough room for dresses and gorgeous ball gowns. Double wardrobes are perfect for medium sized master bedrooms or spare rooms as they don’t take up too much space and can add a certain style to a room, bringing it to life.

Triple Wardrobes – These large, three door wardrobes provide all the storage space you will need in your bedroom. Again, the triple is available in a ladies and gents style depending on whether you need full hanging space or extra drawer space. Triple wardrobes can be a great way to maximise storage space for you and a partner. The separate storage compartments will allow for both sets of clothes to be stored neatly but separately within the wardrobe.

It is also important to consider which type of wood you are going to choose, with Oak and Pine being the most popular choices amongst households in the UK. Oak is a classic and reliable choice and PineSolutions has many wardrobes made from sustainable forests in North America, where some of the best wood material is grown. Keep in mind that as the timber matures it will darken to a darker shade and expand slightly. A great alternative to wood is pine. Pine is more affordable than oak, but just as durable. It also has fewer knots, which means it will be less likely to splinter. PineSolutions also stocks a wide range of painted furniture which can create a rustic feel in your home and is a great alternative to the traditional looks of Oak and Pine furniture.

Visit our wide range of wardrobes.

A House Inside A Hill

2010-09-06T17:07:00.000+01:00

This house in the hills can be found in Vals, Switzerland and was created by Christian Müller Architects and SeARCH. This unique design has been designed to blend into its surroundings with the majority of the house built into the hillside. A large wooden terrace creates beautiful panoramic views of the neighboring mountainside landscape. Check out the photos below. [Via]

Another Animal Sofa

2010-08-16T16:12:00.001+01:00

A week after posting our first animal sofa we have stumbled across another one of these strange sofas. This time it is a rather large grizzly bear that has been turned into a sofa. I'm not too sure if this is becoming a worldwide trend for sofa's, but, we will keep you updated if and when we find any more. [Via]

Footprint Design Coffee Table

2010-08-16T10:48:00.003+01:00

Here is a fantastic piece of design from Bulgarian designer Svilen Gamolov. The "Step Coffee Table" features two foot prints mounted on top of each other along with another foot print providing the top surface of the coffee table. This table would look great in any living room or even a café bar in a city centre. Although this design is only a concept at present, it deserves to be made available to purchase for its originality and innovative design. [Via]

Huge Kitty Couch

2010-08-09T16:31:00.000+01:00

This sofa/cat is probably one of the most bizarre designs we have seen for a long time. The kitty-couch is a giant sofa in the shape of a cat which is big enough to seat even the biggest of families with ample seating space. A very interesting design if not a little strange. [Via]

Futuristic Home Furniture

2010-08-04T15:17:00.008+01:00

Today we were thinking about how technologically advanced could furniture become. We have already featured a home sauna which included a TV, DVD player and CD Player (the only thing that was missing was a built in Blackberry Torch), and now we have come across some amazing furniture designs that include: a 'Jetsons' (Cartoon series) style dining pod, a Japanese style set of fold-able rooms and a stack-able garden furniture set. These innovative designs are truly stunning and definitely point to a minimalist style of furniture in the future.

[Via]

Choosing the Right Dining Table

2010-08-03T11:21:00.003+01:00

A good quality dining table can last for generations and be used on a daily basis for a manic breakfast time before the school run and family feasts in the evenings. Picking the right one does require a little bit of careful research and planning. Read on for our top tips on what to consider when purchasing your next dining table.

Size

The size of the dining table is one of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a new dining table. Larger dining rooms require a large table but a small dining room would be dwarfed by a large table. It is important to measure up your dining room and plan how much room you have to play with and to ensure at the planning stage you include all the other furniture in the room including, dining chairs, sideboards, cupboards etc. Remember that you will need room to allow your guests to get in and out of the chairs. If space is at a premium but you like to cater for large parties an extending dining table may be the way forward as this allows you to have a small table for everyday use and then a large table for special occasions.

Materials

Wooden dining tables are the material of choice amongst households in the UK. Solid oak and pine lead the way due to the strong build quality that gives these materials durability but also the variation in styles available from traditional pine to contemporary modern oak.

Seating

Meal times with the family are a great way to catch up and share family news, which is why it is important to have comfortable seating for all of your family/guests. Solid wooden seats look very traditional but could become uncomfortable if your Sunday roast lasts for over an hour. Padded seats or leather seats can bring a contemporary look into your home whilst also giving your guests superior comfort. Cushions could also be added to wooden seats to improve comfort and also introduce some colour into your dining room. Buying a dining set which includes tables and chairs can result in some big savings so look out for these offers as you could save yourself hundreds of pounds.

Shape

Dining tables come in three main shapes; rectangular, square and round/oblong. Rectangular tables allow for more variation in the seating plan as more seats can be added to accommodate more guests. Square tables are perfect for intimate dinners for up to four people and can create a relaxed dining experience as the shape can encourage conversation as well as saving space which is also applies to round dining tables.

For more info and styles, visit our wide range of dining tables.

Exercise While You Work

2010-07-27T11:33:00.002+01:00

Do you find that there just aren't enough hours in the day left to exercise? Well thanks to a bizarre innovation from an American company called Steelcase, they have come up with a workstation that includes a treadmill allowing you to walk and work at the same time. The workstation allows you to carry out your normal office duties whilst you walk or jog on the built in treadmill. Most definitely a solution to the problem but we're not sure how practical this really is and you probably wouldn't be able to drink a cup of tea or coffee whilst on the treadmill. Via.

PineSolutions Dragon Boat Racing Team

2010-07-26T14:26:00.002+01:00

A big well done to the PineSolutions team that competed in a Dragon Boat race this weekend held at Whitlingham Lakes, Norwich. Our team reached the semi-finals of the competition which was held to raise funds for the Antony Nolan Trust. Congratulations to all that took part to raise money for this worthwhile cause.

Read the official press release.

Mattress Guide - Technical Bits Explained

2010-07-21T15:25:00.005+01:00

The world of mattresses is full of technical jargon and info that doesn't really tell you whether or not you are actually buying a soft or firm mattress. All we really want to know is whether or not a mattress will be comfy enough to spend a whole weekend in bed..... reading a good book. Read on for our breakdown of all the technical bits you will come across when buying a new mattress.

Spring Gauge

The gauge of the coils determines the firmness and support of the mattress. The spring gauge rating refers to how thick the spring is – the lower the number, the thicker the spring and the thicker the spring, the firmer the mattress. Technically referred to as 13.5 Gauge – Soft, 13.0 Gauge - Medium and 12.5 Gauge - Firm.

Pocket Springs

The springs are individually nested and sewn either side with calico whilst a flat steel isolating bar around the perimeter at the first spring keeps all the springs together. Fillings are placed on top and are tufted with several laces which is the most efficient and traditional way of keeping all the fillings together, which extends the lifespan of the product.

Gauge Rod

The gauge rod is around the perimeter of the mattress and provides extra strength and support.

Orthopaedic Mattress

Orthopaedic mattresses are designed to support the spine and back by holding your spine the correct alignment which helps to prevent the build-up of tension and pressure. These tend to be firmer than normal mattresses.

Memory Foam

This high density foam has been developed by NASA and reacts to temperature and your body. The foam has the ability to soften as it warms allowing your body to mould the perfect shape into the mattress. Pressure points are minimised and the spine is held in perfect alignment. Coolmax technology also allows you to stay cool in the hot summer months and remain warm on chilly winter nights. Memory foam also makes it impossible for dust mites to penetrate the mattress creating a cleaner and more hygienic mattress.

Depth

This refers to how deep the mattress is from the top side to the bottom side.

Selecting the right mattress is vital to having a good nights sleep. Check out these sleep related facts:

- Humans sleep on average around three hours less than other primates like chimps, rhesus monkeys, squirrel monkeys and baboons, all of whom sleep for 10 hours.
- A new baby typically results in 400-750 hours lost sleep for parents in the first year.
- As a group, 18 to 24 year-olds deprived of sleep suffer more from impaired performance than older adults.
- Experts say one of the most alluring sleep distractions is the 24-hour accessibility of the internet.

Visit the PineSolutions range of mattresses and buying guide.

Floating Staircase Designs

2010-07-19T15:07:00.007+01:00

The floating staircase creates an elegant and minimalist feel whilst looking very stylish. These modern staircases look great in urban apartments and are often used as the centrepiece in the downstairs living room. However, we have to admit, most of the staircases below aren't the most child-friendly designs we have ever seen. Via digsdigs.

Top 10 Living Room Furniture and Design Tips

2010-07-19T11:17:00.006+01:00

Give your living room a new lease of life with our top 10 decorating and furnishing tips. Whether you have a small or large area available you can maximise space and function with our living room guide.

1. Mount your TV on the wall – Placing the TV on the wall will save you space on the floor and can create a focal point in your living room. This extra space can be used for an extra chair, bookcase etc.

2. Shapes are good – Vary your shapes. Introduce round pillows, oval mirrors and tear drop vases to contrast the dominating rectangular shapes you find in all living rooms (TV, windows, rugs, sofas, coffee tables etc).

3. Quality carpet – The living room is the hub of all activity in most family homes which can mean the carpet can wear very thin in a short period of time. A Berber carpet is one of the hardest wearing carpets on the market and will stand up to several years of children running around. Investing in high quality Tredaire carpet underlay to maintain that soft underfoot feel.

4. Accessorise - If your living room is a bit on the small side, introduce a showpiece item such as a quirky table lamp, this will detract attention away from the size of the room.

5. Mirrors - Adding a mirror can make a room feel bigger and more open. Position the mirror opposite your windows as this will reflect light around the room making it feel more spacious.

6. Disguise your sofa - If you can’t bring yourself to replacing your 20 year old sofa, give it a new lease of life by covering it with a brightly coloured throw. There are various colours and styles available allowing you to totally transform the look of your sofa which is considerably cheaper than purchasing a new one.

7. Rug - If your carpet has endured a tough life and has a couple of stains or worn patches then invest in a bright and bold rug that can cover these up and compliment your existing colour scheme.

8. Colour scheme - Opt for light colours on the walls to create a warm and inviting atmosphere for your family and guests. Don’t just go for that standard magnolia; try out some bright greens, blues and purples to add interest to your living room.

9. Space is key - Don’t clutter your living room with several large pieces meaning you can no longer see the floor. Leave some space for people to walk around and to reposition other pieces if you feel it is time for a change. Less can be more.

10. Lighting - Draw focus and attention to particular areas with spotlights. Light up a picture or family portrait or vary the lighting in different areas of the room.

Let us know what your top tips are for decorating and maintaining your living room.

PineSolutions New Website

2010-07-15T09:44:00.011+01:00

Today sees the launch of the brand new PineSolutions website. The new site has a new clean look with easy to use navigation bars as well as an easy to use shop by wood type, range and room function. Take a look at the new website and let us know what you think of the new design. Email us here.

Exciting New Stuff

2010-07-13T17:20:00.000+01:00

Apologies for the lack of posts over the past week. We are working on some 'exciting new stuff' (more details to follow!) which we are looking forward to revealing soon.

Keep an eye on the PineSolutions website and here on the blog over the next few days to find out more.

Introducing Table Man

2010-07-07T11:22:00.002+01:00

Despite sounding like an all action super hero, Table Man, is actually an outdoor table and chairs set, but a lot cooler. The table acts as the body with benches making up the arms and legs and a neat little stool with a smiley face completes the set. Every pub should have a table man design in their garden!

Via Furniture Fashion.

Hot Summer Clearance - Up to 50% off!

2010-07-07T10:40:00.000+01:00

Our hot summer clearance is underway with up to 50% off many ranges including our popular Oakleigh, Calgary Oak and English Heritage ranges. Visit the PineSolutions website and check out this amazing sale.

*Offer valid only while stocks last.

The New Kristina White Painted Furniture Range

2010-07-06T12:32:00.000+01:00

We have recently added the new Kristina white painted furniture range to the PineSolutions.co.uk website. Featuring a wide selection of bedroom, dining room, kitchen and living room furniture, this distressed white painted furniture is proving to be very popular.

Nothing evokes a simple, relaxed elegance like beautifully designed white painted furniture, and because of its easygoing charm, it's possible to create a number of distinct looks by placing this style of furniture in any setting, from an ornate country getaway to an contemporary urban space. The nostalgic feel of the range has been inspired by the French countryside and features distressed looks and rustic tones.

Bedroom

The perfect way to create a fresh vintage look in your bedroom is to combine the Kristina white bedroom furniture with floral patterned accessories. The crisp white lines of the furniture allow an effortless contrast with floral designs that creates an atmosphere reminiscent of a lazy summer afternoon. Try floral curtains and duvet sets to complete the look.

Kitchen

Painted furniture is hard wearing, and because the paint protects the wood, you won't need to worry about sunlight bleaching the grain, so you can place white painted furniture anywhere in a room, or even in a conservatory. This gives you great freedom to rearrange if you want to try out a different style.

Living room

White painted furniture has a timeless appeal. It allows you to keep the furniture for many years allowing you to change the look of the room by redecorating instead of having to buy new furniture. White furniture allows you to switch between modern and classic styling so try floral designs or bright bold colours to bring that new look into your home.

Visit the new Kristina range and explore the beauty of white painted furniture.

No More Condensation With This Innovative Showerhead Mirror

2010-07-05T14:19:00.001+01:00

This morning we stumbled across this rather odd but inspiring shower head design. A shower head doesn’t usually warrant a post on the blog but we are willing to make an exception for this one. The showerhead is a mirror that doesn’t get affected by condensation and also a shower head. The science behind the mirror is that the warm water flows into the back of the mirror creating enough heat which prevents any condensation (lesson over). Shaving and checking your hair out in the shower have now become a lot easier. Via freshome.

PineSolutions on Twitter

2010-06-30T15:28:00.002+01:00

The PineSolutions Twitter page is up and running. Come and follow us and start tweeting!

Essential Items for the Perfect Office

2010-06-30T10:18:00.002+01:00

The office is a place where you spend almost a third of your day yet most offices look very unwelcoming and extremely depressing. Studies show that your office furniture and desk space can affect your productivity which is why it is important to create a positive work environment. Check out our guide to creating the perfect office environment.

1. Desk – introducing a solid oak or pine desk into your office can help to add a natural feel to the office. The desk you choose needs to be functional with plenty of storage options such as drawers and cupboards, which allow you to keep all of your documents and stationary neatly stored and not left on your desk in a mess. Visit the full PineSolutions range of office desks.

2. Chair – The Herman Miller Aeron chair is a seriously cool chair with its modern looks and superb functionality this chair is what every office needs. The contours of the chair adjust with your body as you move which has been designed to help improve circulation. This chair is also a bit of a TV star after being featured on the big and small screen. Visit the Herman Miller website for more info.

3. Plants – Add some colourful plants to your desk and office to improve the aesthetics and your health whilst you are at work. Having a plant on your desk will require some care, visit the Greenplants.co.uk blog for more information on choosing the perfect office plant.

4. Gadgets – Having the coolest kit on your desk is essential. The my cuppa mugs from firebox.com will allow whoever is making your tea or coffee to get the strength exactly right with its handy colour guide which is displayed on the inside of the mug.

5. Desk Fan – With the UK experiencing this strange phenomenon of ‘hot weather’ many offices around the UK are quite literally baking. Investing in a small desk fan is becoming a necessity for all offices without air conditioning.

The Perfect TV Stand and Viewing Distance Guide

2010-06-29T14:25:00.001+01:00

After buying your shiny new Plasma/LCD flat screen TV that would rival a cinema screen, the next step is to find the perfect TV stand. At PineSolutions we stock a wide range of solid oak and pine TV stands in a variety of styles including corner stands, wide stands and stands with storage. TV stands have become one of our most popular pieces of furniture so we here we have created the complete TV stand guide with all the information you will need when choosing your new TV stand.

TV Size

One of the most common questions that a customer needs answering is ‘will my TV actually fit on this TV stand?’ With TV’s getting bigger and bigger (the biggest commercial TV available to buy is a staggering 152”) it is important that your TV sits comfortably in the centre of your stand.
Here we have the manufacturer’s recommendations for the perfect combination of stand and TV size.

Straight TV Stand

1050mm width – Maximum flat screen size up to 42"
1200mm width – Maximum flat screen size up to 50"

Corner TV Stand

800mm width - Maximum flat screen size up to 32"
1050mm width - Maximum flat screen size up to 42"

When buying a corner TV stand it is important to factor in the size of the TV and how much space there is between each wall in relation to the widest points of the TV.

Visit our collection for a wide range of TV stands.

Optimum Viewing Distance

As the quality of TV’s increases and the picture quality becomes better, it is vital to factor in the position of your TV and stand in relation to where you will be viewing it from. With high definition viewing it is important to be sitting at the ideal distance to enable you to take in all of the clarity and rich detail that the TV has to offer. If you sit too far away you will be missing out on this impressive viewing and not gain all the benefits from a HD TV.

Here is our guide to the optimum viewing distances for average TV sizes found in many UK households.

TV Size	720p Resolution	1080p Resolution
32"	6'	4'
37"	7'	5'
40"	8'	5'
42"	8'	5.5'
46"	9'	6'
50"	10'	5.5'

*These guidelines are not definitive and can differ between different types of TV (eg Plasma, LCD, LED, 3D etc)

A Guide To Solid Oak Furniture

2010-06-24T15:52:00.002+01:00

Solid Oak furniture offers you a high quality wood finish with looks and character that will last for many generations. The quality is unsurpassed and is increasingly becoming a popular choice in households across the country. A solid oak furniture set looks distinctive and brings a timeless, elegant look that will retain its beauty for many years.

Oak furniture is available in various ranges and can fit effortlessly into any room. The quality look can be achieved by complimenting several pieces with each other for that complete look. The dining room is the perfect place to showcase your oak furniture. The dining table is the most popular piece as it is where families relax and eat together every day, which requires a strong and durable wood such as oak to withstand a hectic family lifestyle.

After a long week at work, winding down in your bedroom is the perfect way to enjoy the start to the weekend and. The warmth and character of oak bedroom furniture will give your room that welcoming feel and provide you with the perfect retreat to get away from the daily grind.

The majority of good quality oak comes pre-assembled which takes out the stress of having to build your furniture and ensures that the furniture has been expertly crafted. Oak furniture does require some care and attention to ensure that it retains its superior quality look and feel. You should dust your furniture with a soft cloth at least once a week to remove any build up of dust, and then apply a good quality oil product to the surface to maintain the oaks quality feel.

Your solid oak furniture can last you a lifetime with a little care and attention allowing you to enjoy your furniture for generation after generation. Visit our entire collection of Solid Oak Furniture.

The Coolest Home Sauna Entertainment Centre

2010-06-17T10:30:00.000+01:00

Home saunas have become far more accessible in recent years and it was only a matter of time before they were given a high tech makeover. This Far Infrared E Series sauna features a flat panel TV (which drops down from the ceiling), LCD screen with DVD player and a radio/cd player. Now you can watch the whole of the 2010 World Cup from the comfort and warmth of your sauna. Sitting in a hot sauna has never been so much fun! Via Furniture Fashion.

How to Protect & Maintain Your Furniture

2010-06-11T10:40:00.001+01:00

You live with your furniture every day so it is important to protect and maintain the quality look and feel of the furniture for as long as possible. Because your furniture is used every day it can become susceptible to spills and damage. Here are the PineSolutions top tips for protecting and maintaining your furniture.

- Wooden furniture expands and shrinks with the variations in temperatures and humidity. Be careful not to place your furniture directly next to a radiator or in full view of direct sunlight, this can cause the wood to split and crack and the rich colours of the wood to fade.
- If you accidently spill any liquids such as coffee, tea, coke and wine onto your wooden furniture, this should be cleaned up immediately with a clean dry cloth. Do not rub the wood until it is dry, this will spread the spill and cause further damage to the wax finish.
- Apply a natural oil (oak furniture) or wax product, depending on what your furniture is made from once or twice a year. This will add an extra level of protection to your furniture and can protect the wood from moisture damage. Ensure the product is applied to a cloth and not directly onto the wood.
- Never place hot dishes or cups directly onto the surface of the wood. Use coasters and placemats to avoid this scenario.
- Don’t slide objects across the surface of the wood. This can scratch the surface and will damage the wax finish of the wood.

By maintaining a regular routine of cleaning and caring for your wood you can prolong the beauty of the wax/oil finish and leave the furniture looking like new for many years. Read the full guide at the PineSolutions website.

Transform Your Living Room into a 2010 World Cup Heaven

2010-06-07T13:31:00.003+01:00

With the biggest sporting event of the summer only a few days away, the 2010 World Cup brings a huge buzz to many homes across the country, many of whom will be praying that England make it past the quarter finals this year under the guidance of Mr Capello. With Rooney and co already in South Africa preparing for their first game on June 12th, now is the time to start preparing your living room to host every game in your very own home stadium. Here are our top-tips on how to bring the stadium atmosphere into your living room.

1. To make the most of the game and to truly immerse you into the atmosphere and tension of the game, hardcore fans across the country are transforming their living rooms into home football stands. What better way to put yourself in the thick of the action then with a home built stand where you can sing your favourite terrace songs and cheer England onto victory. A simple two-tiered stand can seat eight of your friends just like this amazing home built stand below.

2. Now that you have got the seating sorted it is vital to be able to see the game on a big screen. Investing in a crystal clear HD television is the only way to watch your sporting heroes this summer.

3. To do your big screen justice, a decent sound system is the perfect way to complete the set. A sub-woofer and surround sound speakers are essential to deliver stadium like acoustics.

4. To keep your guests hydrated throughout the game a fridge stocked full of cold beverages is the perfect accompaniment to your world cup party. Combine this with a healthy selection of snacks to ensure no one gets hungry during a nail biting 90 minutes (don’t forget to stock up for extra time and the inevitable penalty shoot out).

5. It’s time to show your true colours and show your support for your favourite team. Replica shirts, face paints, foam hands, flags and scarves are all essential items to truly get involved in the spirit of the occasion. Why not? The World Cup only comes around once every four years!

Innovative Door Mat Flip-Flops

2010-06-03T15:20:00.000+01:00

If you are someone who forgets where they leave there shoes and flip flops in the summer months then this amazing design is perfect for you. Created by New York based designer, Anchalee Chambundabongse for Havaianas, this door mat features two built in flip flops that you can just slip on and walk off with. This beautiful designed piece is the perfect place to leave your footwear when entering your house or conservatory. Visit the rest of Anchalee Chambundabongse’s work at her website.

How to Create Extra Space and Add Value to the Price of Your Home

2010-06-02T11:00:00.002+01:00

Many households in the UK would benefit from some extra space in their home, but selling up and moving to a bigger house is not an option. An ideal way to not only gain some extra living space but a whole new room is to invest in a loft conversion. This extra room could be used to give one of your children a new bedroom or be converted into a fully functioning office for you your new business, there really aren’t many limitations for the ways in which you could use a loft conversion. Statistics even suggest that a loft conversion can add as much as 20% to the value of your home.

Once you have completed your loft conversion it is time to furnish your new room. One obstacle you may have to overcome will be space and the height of the ceilings. The dimensions of the loft will restrict whether some pieces can be added to the room. This can be overcome by varying the range of furniture that is included in the room. If a wardrobe is too tall then replace this with an extra chest of drawers which can be used to store all your clothes. Small items such as bookcases, blanket boxes, chest of drawers and dressing tables are all pieces that can make the most of a tight space or low ceiling. Your clothes can be stored in blanket boxes and chest of drawers, books and DVD’s can be stored neatly in a bookcase. With a little bit of planning and utilising what space you do have, you can turn your loft conversion into anything you like, without having to throw away any of your favourite things.

For more information on how to start planning a loft conversion visit About Loft Conversions.

Create Your Own Wooden Name Nuzzle

2010-06-02T09:30:00.000+01:00

Ever wanted to have your name up in ~~lights~~ wood? Well now you can with these super cool custom wooden name puzzles. Nuzzles allow you to have your name or phrase created using solid wood, with its own unique typographic style. These are very cool and would look great in the office or in the kids bedroom. Via Freshome.

Top Tips For Buying New Furniture Online

2010-05-26T14:59:00.006+01:00

Not sure how to start the process of buying furniture online? Read through our top tips on how to successfully shop online for new furniture.

1. What are you shopping for? – Begin with a walk around your house and make a list of what you need from each room. This will give you a good idea of what you need to replace and what you might like to introduce into the room. Make sure you know what pieces you are after and you know what your budget is.

2. Research – There are plenty of websites on the internet selling furniture but there is a definite difference in the quality of the service provided and the quality of the furniture between the not-so-good retailers and the top quality ones. Do your research! Check various websites to compare prices between furniture ranges and delivery costs. A beautiful piece of oak furniture locally sourced and produced is wonderful but not if that place is the Scottish highlands and they only offer a pick up only service, you could be in for a long drive. Wood samples are available, which allows you to see the quality of the wood before you make your purchase.

3. Visualise – Gone are the days of scribbling down a room plan with various pieces of furniture that resembles a three year olds masterpiece, these days it’s all about building your own room in 3D. Online furniture blog, Mydeco.com, have an amazing free 3D room builder tool that allows you to build your room and furnish it with beds, curtains, wallpapers, bedside lamps and everything else that could go in a room. A point-of-view camera allows you to walk through and see how the room looks from different angles.

4. Investigate - When shopping online you can take advantage of some great deals that you can’t get on the high street. Websites such as VoucherCodes.co.uk often feature discount codes for many online furniture retailers allowing you to make some great savings with offers such as free delivery or 10% off your order. A little bit of time spent investigating these offers could save you hundreds of pounds. Sign up to the online retailer’s e-newsletter. They will often send out special offers direct to their customers on their database before sending them out to the rest of the world.

5. Verify – As with anything in life there are safe places to buy goods from and places you shouldn’t really trust. Investigate the company you are buying from, read reviews, check that they have secure checkouts, look for verified and trusted tags on the website. Visit Trustpilot.co.uk and read customers reviews on thousands of companies. Check the company’s returns policy as you may wish to return your furniture if your unsatisfied with it. The majority of online stores these days are legitimate, but there are still a few dodgy dealers out there looking to catch you off guard.

6. Sit back and relax!

Join Us On Facebook!

2010-05-24T14:33:00.015+01:00

Join us on Facebook and tell all of your friends that you can now interact with members of the team and other Pinesolutions customers, read our latest news, upload pictures of your favourite pieces of furniture and receive exclusive discount codes.

We would love to answer any of your queries or hear any ideas you may have so come and get involved over at our Facebook fan page.

The Strangest iPhone Inspired Furniture And Accessories For Your Home

2010-05-20T16:30:00.000+01:00

The iPhone has become a worldwide phenomenon since it was released in 2007. With over 50 million units sold worldwide it is no surprise to see some strange pieces of furniture and accessories that are available to buy. We have found some wonderful accessories and furniture that are available to buy and show your dedication and love to this super cool gadget.

This fantastic ipod touch inspired bed cover, has been made available through an online Swedish store (Ellos). Featuring an exact replica of your favourite gadget on the duvet and a smaller version on the pillow, this is the perfect way to pay homage to the iPod. This next tribute to the iPhone was created by Tuan Nguyen and Ken Thomas, and is a full size coffee table which features built in, removable coasters. The iphone coffee table isn’t available to buy at the moment but if you like it enough, why not have a go and build your own one? All you need is a lot of time and a fairly empty diary. [Via iLounge]

And finally, we have this rather exquisite wooden iPhone case. Appropriately named the iWood, the high quality wooden case looks great and offers great protection for your iPhone. Costing €80 they certainly aren’t cheap, but if you like your gadgets and solid oak furniture, this is the perfect accessory. This is not only the perfect accessory for your iPhone but will also go superbly with the vancouver oak furniture range. The iWood is available from Miniot.

Ideas to Utilise the Space Under Your Stairs

2010-05-19T11:00:00.000+01:00

If you are looking for inspiration to transform that area underneath your staircase into something more useful than just a space for your old trainers and a hoover then check out this fantastic post from interior design blog Home-Designing. It features some great ideas on how you can transform this small space into anything from a wine rack to a bathroom. Check out the full post here.

Looking After Your Pine Furniture - Top Tips

2010-05-18T21:30:00.003+01:00

Pine furniture is a popular choice of furniture in the UK and features some of our best selling ranges at Pinesolutions. Pine is a naturally soft wood native to the Northern Hemisphere, and just like any other wood which is used for furniture, it requires care and maintenance to ensure that it remains a quality piece of furniture. Here are the Pinesolutions top tips for looking after your pine furniture:

- Never place your pine furniture next to a radiator or in full view of direct sunlight. The wood will reduce in size when it is exposed to heat which can cause the wood to crack.
- Do not place any hot or cold items directly onto the surface of the wood. Use a place mat and coasters to place hot plates and cold drinks onto.
- Any spills should be cleaned up immediately with a clean/damp cloth. Do not rub the spill as this will spread the spill to other areas of the wood. Carefully blot the liquid allowing the cloth to soak it up.
- Keeping your pine furniture clean is essential. Use a dust cloth to wipe the surface of the furniture at least once a week. Avoid using oil based polishes or aerosol sprays as these can remove the natural characteristics of the pine and give the wood a sticky finish.
- A block wax (unperfumed) can be used to re-treat the surface of the pine by rubbing the surface of the pine every 2-3 months. Apply the wax to the whole furniture once a year.

A little care and maintenance can go a long way in prolonging the character and beauty of your pine furniture. Visit our full range of Bedroom, Living Room and Dining Room pine furniture.

The Most Luxurious House On Wheels

2010-05-14T20:00:00.000+01:00

When you think of a house on wheels you immediately think of a dull camp site stuck in the middle of nowhere, but, the latest offering from American firm, Newell, redefines the whole meaning of luxury motor home. Their latest model is more expensive and more luxurious than your average semi detached home.

The luxury ‘Coach 1411’ model is hand built from start to finish and features unrivalled quality throughout. Key features include kitchen, dining room, bedroom and bathroom all of which have been furnished to the highest quality.

This amazing home will set you back a cool $1,549,300 (£1,031,198) but it doesn’t require mortgage, which is handy. So if you dislike your neighbours and want to get away from it all, this fully equipped house on wheels is for you. The only thing that this motor home doesn’t have is a back garden. Visit the Newell website for more info.

Why Don’t You Put The Kitchen Unit In The Living Room?

2010-05-10T23:00:00.000+01:00

It’s an interesting point, why do we put furniture in a certain room just because a website categorises it there? Of course, certain items like a sofa probably won’t replace a traditional dining table and chairs set in the kitchen, but, other items such as kitchen cabinets can be modified and placed in the living room to be used as a multimedia centre for your TV. It opens up endless possibilities when it comes to transforming your home with unique furniture that you wouldn’t expect to be there.

A fantastic furniture blog called IKEA Hacker, features posts from its readers on how they have transformed a piece of furniture or customised some materials to create stunning and practical pieces of furniture. There are some great ideas available on this blog and many posts feature instructions on how you can recreate their designs. This fantastic coffee table has been cut in half allowing you to re-use the table in a multitude of different combinations. So now you can have a coffee table, lamp table and side table all in one.

Have you ever painted/stained your Pinesolutions furniture? Or have you ever customised one of our pieces and transformed it into something completely different? We would love to hear from you and see the finished result. Get in touch with us over at our Facebook fan page.

Cushions To Transform Your Home

2010-05-10T19:30:00.001+01:00

An easy way to add a bit of colour and style to your living room or conservatory is to introduce some eye-catching cushions. Some have been designed to look elegant and sophisticated, others, like the ones we are featuring below, are not your average cushion designs.

These superb designs allow you to express yourself and bring an ostentatious element into your home. Check out the collection of weird and wonderful cushions.

These awesome cushions from digitexhome.com will really bring an old sofa to life. With cool names like ‘Chatty Cheetah’ and ‘Kapow’, these cushions are sure to be instant hits.

This inspirational design from South African, Ronel Jordaan, will create an impressive natural look in any room. Made from 100% merino wool, these ‘stone’ cushions look like solid boulders, but instead they are luxurious, soft and extremely comfortable. There are several different sized stones which gives you the freedom to create your own formation so you can create your perfect combination of comfy stones! These quality cushions dont come cheap, visit Vivaterra.com for more info.

Bring out your patriotic side with these Union Jack inspired cushions. Proud to be British, these stylish cushions will brighten up your room allowing you to display this iconic image. Visit mydeco.com for a wide range of Union Jack cushions.

If you needed further proof that the world of social networking websites such as Facebook, Twitter and Myspace have taken over the world, you can now buy social networking inspired cushions. This colourful collection of cushions will appeal to the hardcore facebook and twitter fans but we can’t see too many of these appearing in many living rooms any time soon. Visit the store here.

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How To Use Floors To Enhance Your Furniture

2010-03-12T14:50:00.000Z

The choice of flooring can totally define the look of a room - when visitors arrive, the floor will dictate how they perceive the size, shape, function and style of your space, and by selecting the right flooring choice, you can make sure that your furniture is properly presented and your home looks its best.

Choose a flooring option that is
sympathetic to your furniture's style

Changing your floor is not as expensive as you might think- there are a huge range of options to suit all budgets. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Although they aren't as hard wearing as traditional carpets, foam-backed carpet is very cheap, and allows you to make a quick, cheap impact on a room. Make sure that if you have heavy wooden furniture you invest in some rubber or foam pads for the bases to prevent them from permanently marking the carpet.

Carpeting can stifle the style of modern furniture, especially if the carpet has a bold pattern, but when combined with more traditional pieces can help to create a warm, cosy effect.

Modern furniture relies on clean lines, and to reflect this, it works best with a sleek wooden parquet floor. If you want a wooden floor, but haven't quite got the money to spare, try installing some click-system, wood-effect laminate - it's cheap, and properly fitted it can be almost indistinguishable from the real thing. Make sure you place any large items of furniture, such as coffee tables or sideboards, on top of rugs or rubber pads to prevent them from marking the floor.

If your room is split into different areas for differing purposes, like an open-plan kitchen with a lounge area or a lounge/dining room, then it can be very effective to vary the flooring according to function, using ceramic tile for kitchen areas, carpet for lounge, and laminate for dining. This also allows you to create differently styled areas within the same room - a sleek contemporary dining set nestled at the end of a more cosy carpeted lounge, for example.

Make sure you consider the consequences of your new flooring choice - Ceramic tiles have the benefit of being easy to clean and totally waterproof, but they can become dangerously slippy, so make sure to use rugs to provide grip and warmth. Likewise, laminate flooring looks great, but can quickly deteriorate if used in a damp environment like a bathroom or kitchen, or in hotter rooms like conservatories.

A real wooden floor is great in any room, and really brings out the best in any type of furniture. It's a practical option too, as the wood can be sealed against moisture, and can naturally expand and contract with changes in temperature. The only drawback with wooden flooring is the cost and difficulty of installation.

If you're feeling adventurous, and think you've got what it takes to lay your own wooden floor, check out this youtube video which will show you exactly how it's done and warn you of some of the most common difficulties you may run into.

How To Create A Contemporary Office

2010-03-12T14:44:00.000Z

With the ongoing recession causing salaries to be frozen, and with record numbers of applicants for vacant jobs, more and more of us are discovering our entrepreneurial spirit and starting businesses from home. If you have just embarked on a new commercial venture, you'll need surroundings that reflect your new business ideas, so we've come up with some great ideas on how to get maximum inspiration from your home office.

There's no doubting Sir Alan's business skills,
but what about his choice of decor?

If you've ever watched the BBC's show The Apprentice, you'll be familiar with the ultra modern glass-and-steel look of Sir Alan Sugar's boardroom. It makes a useful example of a contemporary work space, as your reaction to its super-sleek interiors will dictate the direction that you want to take with your own office. Some may find the reflective surfaces and unbroken lines of Sir Alan's office to be an inspiration, while others may still yearn for a modern look, but will want more warmth.

If the shiny, clean lines of Sir Alan's board room appeal to you, then you'll want to carefully plan your ultra-modern home office, otherwise it could end up looking like a cheap imitation, and your dreams of running your empire from a sleek, professional workspace may become a nightmare of peeling foil wallpaper and mismatched textures. The key to this style is to keep it simple - avoid flashy wall coverings and stick to a muted slate grey paint for the walls, and pick out a desk in glass or perspex. The only problem with a glass desk is that it works as a kind of display cabinet for clutter - invest in some stylish designer filing cabinets to make sure you have enough storage to keep surfaces clear. One of the keys to getting this look right is lighting - you won't be able to achieve that ultra modern look if you have a traditional lightbulb in the centre of the ceiling. Go for recessed halogen spotlights, with a separate switch for lightng over the desk.

This workspace mixes contemporary design and
lighting with traditional materials for an inviting feel.

If you want a modern workspace that is stylish while still being warm and inviting, why not mix traditional materials with modern style - look for a desk in oak or pine that has been made to a contemporary design, and you'll be able to achieve a harmony between sleek professionalism and homely comfort. Pick matching wooden filing cabinets and shelves to continue the harmonious feel. You can use your wooden furniture to select your wall colour by holding up a paint catalogue to the wood and finding a sympathetic tone. For example, oak contains hints of many different shades, and you can pick out burgundy, umbre, or even flecks of royal blue. This will create a unified and inviting room, where it is easy to concentrate and let yourself be inspired.

This home office manages to combine sleek
modernity with a hint of warmth

If you're having difficulty visualising your new workspace, head over to hgtv.com, where their designers have put together some truly inspirational home offices, including the two above. If you're working to a tight budget, then why not check out the BBC design inspiration site's range of affordable ideas for studies and home offices, and give an early boost to your profit margins.

Fresh New Wallpaper Ideas

2010-03-12T14:25:00.000Z

Wallpaper has fallen out of style over the last twenty years, with the focus shifting from patterned walls to simple, clean painted finishes, but the new generation of designers have dusted off the idea of papered walls, and come up with some innovative, striking and totally unique ways to create a distinctive look with your walls.

Designer wallpaper has revolutionised the industry, for example, artist Natalie Wright uses a hand silk-screening process to create the patterns shown on this page, and then hand paints in the detail, creating a multi-layered, opulent look that is sure to make your friends and family jealous.

Geometric patterns can have a dramatic effect

Exciting wallpaper can be a great way to make an eclectic style work, filling the room with a variety of texture and colour that would let you mix and match say, a contemporary coffee table with a traditional sideboard and some shabby-chic sofas and chairs.

Wallpaper has certainly changed

It's worth keeping an open mind when it comes to wallpaper, so trysearching the net for other examples of modern wall coverings and techniques, and dare to bring a bit of colour and detail to your home. Because this is such a new trend, you'll be among the first of your friends and family to give it a try, so if you long to be on the cutting edge of interior design, think designer wallpaper.

How To Turn Your Dining Room French

2010-03-10T11:00:00.000Z

Think of a French dining room, and what comes to mind? Furniture that is somehow comfortable, rustic and effortlessly chic all at the same time, carefully chosen colours that create an environment that is perfect for long conversations over bottles of wine. If this sounds like heaven to you, why not consider creating your own French-influenced dining room, and bringing some of that unique continental charm to your home.

The centrepiece of any dining room is the dining table and chairs, and to get that distinctive French look, you'll want to go for elegant high-backed chairs to really get that sense of chic. For the table, you have a choice - if you are after the look of a sophisticated Parisian apartment, then go for a dining table with slender legs and a delicate design, and accessorise with matching occasional tables and sideboards on which to place lamps and flowing plants. If you crave the rustic French countryside style of a Provence cottage, then go for a rustic table that accentuates the natural beauty of the wood - distressed furniture can help you to get that lived in look without having to pay the high prices of antiques.

This room uses pale tones and a simple
chandelier to maximise space

Once you've got your furniture sorted out, you'll want to think about the decor. French-style dining rooms can, if they are small, benefit from a traditional lemon yellow or powder blue, which will maximise the light and evoke the sense of space found in a refined French apartment. If your room is larger, why not go for something bold and daring like vertical stripes or even a trompe l'oeil painting (although with this you'll want to go to a professional, as an amateurish attempt is a real fashion faux-pas)

This room uses a rustic dining table to create
a relaxed yet stylish atmosphere

The crowning touch to a French-inspired dining room will be a chandelier, although that doesn't mean you should forget about subtlety. Pick a lighting centrepiece that is in keeping with the scale of the room - a small glass chandelier can be an imposing presence simply because it is the source of light, whatever you do don't go too big, otherwise the sense of space will be lost.

Once you've successfully incorporated a French influence into your dining room, you'll want the food to match. Check out the BBC's piece on the differences between French and British cookery, and create some marvellous dishes to serve to your friends and family.

Tips to Make the Most of Your Bedroom

2010-03-10T10:07:00.000Z

A bedroom is a place for rest, relaxation and indulgence, whether you're sleeping off the day's stresses or simply enjoying a lazy Sunday morning lay in with the newspaper and a delicious breakfast in bed. That's why it's so important that you make your bedroom a place that inspires restful feelings, where you can really get away from it all. This handy guide offers five tips that will help you to get the most out of your bedroom, so dive in and get inspired.

1. Make sure your bed is pulling its weight

The bed is the most important part of any bedroom, so it's worth your while taking a little time to make sure that you get the right option for you. Start with the frame, making certain that you pick one that is appropriate for the room - a four poster is great, but only if you have a high ceiling and enough floor space for it. If you make one investment in your bedroom, make it the mattress, as nothing else will have the same impact on your sleep and rest.

This beautifully dressed bed makes this
room inviting and relaxing

2. Get your entertainment options sorted

Sometimes, after a hard day, nothing's better than having an early night and watching one of your favourite films in bed, so it's a great idea to bring some unobtrusive entertainment to your room. Go for a small flatscreen TV, and mount it on the wall so that it doesn't take up floorspace. You can install an extendable bracket so that you can angle it closer to the bed when you want to use it, then fold it away when you don't.

3. Do you have enough storage?

If your bedroom suffers from an excess of clutter, then you may want to consider either storing some of your items elsewhere, or if your room is large enough, investing in some new storage solutions. If you can never find a place for spare blankets and pillows, try keeping a linen chest at the end of the bed. This not only provides great storage, but makes a great place to put a breakfast tray when you've finished with it.

4. Get the arrangement right

It doesn't matter how attractive your furniture is or how well decorated the room, if your bedroom is not arranged well, then it will never look its best. The BBC has a really handy guide to planning the layout of your bedroom, so if you're struggling to come up with ideas, it's well worth a look.

Even though this room is small, the
arrangement gives the illusion of space

5. Maximise your space

Often a bedroom can become overcrowded with furniture, as you cram a bed, bedside tables, wardrobes, chests of drawers and linen chests into the same space. If you have a spare room, why not try using it as a dressing room, so your bedroom can be stripped down to the essentials, helping to create a spacious, tranquil atmosphere where you can dream in peace and quiet.

10 Springtime Tips to Rejuvenate Your Living Room

2010-03-09T16:18:00.001Z

With spring on the way the time has come for a change - why not use these handy ideas to rejuvenate your living room and bring in the new season in style?

1. Pick a theme or motif. To avoid a mish mash of styles, pick a pattern for your textiles and continue it throughout the room, whether it’s an understated fabric or a bold animal print.

2. Add Visual Space. A simple trick like painting your woodwork and walls in the same light color will make a small room seem larger.

This room uses a carefully controlled colour
palette for an inviting and calming effect

3. Layer the Lights. Overhead spotlights are great for highlighting your favourite areas. But you also need table lamps for warm, eye-level light, as well as floor lamps to complete the effect. Occasional tables are a great way to make sure you have plenty of low level light.

4. Create a Skyline. Don't keep all the elements at the same horizontal level. It can be very effective to arrange pieces to establish an interesting contrast of heights so that the eye is led up and down as it travels around the room.

5. Pay Attention to Detail. When a room has a distinct architectural style, your furnishings should respect it, not fight against it. If there's no detailing to begin with, you can establish the spirit of a style by adding baseboards, window and wall casings, and other moldings suitable to it. These elements should give a sense of symmetry, of height and verticality, and of scale.

Lighting is a quick and effective way to bring
a warm atmosphere to any room

6. What about a mural? You can find wonderful reproduction antique murals in wallpaper books at your local DIY centre. Use them to cover an entire wall, or just as a large picture.

7. Vary the Shapes. When it comes to sofas, windows, rugs, and so on, rectangles rule, but all those corners and lines can prevent a room from looking its best. To balance them, try adding a few round throw pillows, an oval coffee table, a jar-shaped lamp, a round ottoman, a free-form sculpture, and accessorizing the whole lot with flowers and plants.

8. Make a Display Tray. To unify a collection of small items on a tabletop, cover the photo-backing cardboard of a wall-hung type picture frame with fabric that complements the display. Insert that in the frame, behind the picture glass, and arrange items on top.

9. Make a picture look bigger - if the painting you'd like to put above your sofa is too small to make an impact, create an illusion of scale by nailing a frame of moulding to the wall, then centre the painting within that space. Voila!

10. Divide and Conquer. To more clearly define the living and dining areas in a long room which must accommodate both, try installing two waist-high shelf units that project a few feet in from each side wall. The low units will keep air space open, add a much-needed horizontal element, and provide useful storage for both areas.

3 Inspiring Wall Ideas

2010-03-05T14:57:00.000Z

Walls make up the largest continuous surface in any room, but are often almost forgotten. Take a look at some of these creative ideas for how to make the most of your walls, and see what you can learn and apply to your own home.

Lots and lots of pictures, in various styles of frames give this room a great eclectic look. This approach is ideal if you live in rented accommodation, and aren't permitted to paint your walls, or if you simply want a way to display a lot of your favourite pictures in a fun and lively manner.

Far more interesting to look at than conventional paint, and much less expensive than wallpaper, why not use your imagination and go for a geometric painted effect? You can use shapes to make beds look their best, or as a way to tie together any room. Get the effect pictured with this handy guide by apartmenttherapy.com

Wall decals may sound gimmicky, but if you need convincing, check out the Lara Cameron collection from The Wall Sticker Company. The Wall Sticker Company are based in Melbourne, but ship to the UK, so if you use their products, you can be sure that you'll be the first of your friends to discover them.

Our Top 5 Contemporary Lamps

2010-03-04T16:12:00.000Z

Modern interior design is all about the interplay between light and texture, so today on the PineSolutions blog, we've scoured the net to find the best five cutting-edge lamps available online, so read on, and let us illuminate you.

The Cord Lamp is bound
to make guests look twice

The Cord Lamp from Design House Stockholm is an inspired design, using the iconic shape of a traditional light fitting, and literally turning it on its head with its cleverly designed base that makes it appear as if the lamp is rising up on its own cable. This lamp looks great in large rooms, where the effect of the base is maximised, and where its bright bulb won't be overwhelming.

The Flat Lamp is an innovative
approach that's sure to catch on

The Flat Lamp is a stylish and environmentally friendly lighting option with its own unique look. Arriving entirely flat packed, there's no need for bulky packaging, which drastically reduces its carbon footprint, and the range of designs means that you're bound to find the right lamp for your home.

The Brave New World Floor Lamp may
be expensive, but it's bound to be a
conversation starter

If you've got money to burn, you might be interested in the striking and totally unique Brave New World Floorlamp from Freshwest, which uses an intricate solid oak construction, combined with metal counterweights to create a gigantic variant on the classic anglepoise design. Standing at 6 feet tall, this lamp is an imposing presence, perfect for an up-to-the-minute loft or apartment.

This multifunction, rechargeable
lamp is perfect for students

If your space is a bit on the small side, you may want to consider this compact, practical, yet superbly stylish combination desk lamp and booklight, which is rechargeable via your computer's USB connection.

It may seem strange, but take a closer look

And if you're feeling the pinch, and can't afford to splash out right now, why not check out this guide to creating striking contemporary lighting from any translucent plastic container.

Using Distressed Wooden Furniture To Create A Lived In Look

2010-03-03T14:31:00.000Z

There is nothing more relaxing and meditative than the organic, flowing textures of antique wood, but it can be prohibitively expensive to refurnish your home with antique materials. This is where distressed wood comes in - with its distinctive, natural shapes and textures, it is an affordable and stylish way to achieve that timelessly chic lived-in look.

No matter what style your home is decorated in, whether it is a modern Scandinavian look, a traditional cottage style, or a cutting edge room filled with unusual shapes and textures, a distressed wooden coffee table, sideboard or dining table made can really bring a touch of the outside world into your home. Simply make sure that the style of the furniture matches the style of your room, and you will be fine.

With distressed wood, you get an antique
look at a fraction of the price

If your room is modern, make sure you pick a contemporary style for your furniture, with sleek lines and chunky legs to make sure it fits in with an up-to-the-minute aesthetic, and avoid overly intricate or old fashioned styles, otherwise you will only end up with a clash. The modern shapes with the texture of distressed wood will effortlessly introduce a touch of rustic simplicity to your home. Similarly, if you have an old-fashioned room, pick some time-honoured pieces with intricately turned and carved legs, and let the distressed finish underscore your home's timeless traditional feel.

Caring for distressed furniture is vital. Even though it may look like it has lasted for hundreds of years, it hasn't, and you'll need to apply a wax to it about once a year to make sure that it retains all of its charm and character. It's also worth your while to keep it out of moisture, so avoid using distressed wood near French windows, as the marks and cracks that are such an integral part of its charm can also allow moisture to get into the core of the wood. One way you can avoid this is by using a coat of varnish, or by buying pieces that have been sealed.

So if you want to take advantage of the superb effects that can be created by using distressed wooden furniture, then take a look around for some absolutely stunning pieces that are alive with the flowing, organic feel of rough-textured antique look wood.

Unlocking the Potential in Your Spare Room

2010-03-03T09:23:00.000Z

A spare room is often an unloved, under used space, only ever used for putting up visiting guests, or, more usually, as a dumping ground for household clutter that can't find a home anywhere else. Why not take a little extra time to turn your spare room into a room that your whole family can enjoy, a welcoming and inspiring space instead of an unused and unappreciated room.

First you'll need to decide what it is you want to use the room for - will it be a home office where you can work from home and where the kids can get on with their homework with no distraction, or will it be a den where they can watch DVDs, have sleepovers, and generally stay out from under your feet? It's worthwhile taking a moment to plan out your room so that you can be sure that it will meet the needs of your whole family.

A spare room is a blank canvas, so
get your imagination working!

Of course, you'll still need somewhere for guests to sleep, so why not consider investing in a sofa bed or futon and giving your spare room a dual purpose? A sofa is great in a home office as a place to sit and strategise, and if you're going for a den, it makes the perfect place to chill out in front of a movie. By making sure that your spare room is comfortable and inviting, you’ll maximize its use, and your home will feel even more welcoming and comfortable.

If you decide to go for a home office, then make sure that you take your time to choose a stylish and professional desk where you’ll enjoy working, and pair it with a chair that is comfortable enough to sit happily for long sessions. For a stylish extra touch, select a matching wooden filing cabinet and a sideboard for extra storage.

If you’re going to be going for a den, then treat it the same way that you would treat a living room – track down an elegant coffee table and matching TV stand, as well as bookshelves for storing DVDs CDs and board games, so that your den can become a joyful, inspiring place where your famly can get together to be entertained.

If you want some extra inspiration, check out this article by interior designer Rakesh Singh at thesoko.com, and set your imagination free

5 Ways to Brighten Up Your Windows

2010-03-02T14:10:00.000Z

It's easy to overlook how much of an impact a cleverly dressed window can create, so why not take a little time to create something truly unique? Let these simple ideas inspire you to transform your windows into the focal point of your room, and not just a source of light.

1: Give the frames an exciting new colour

A well decorated window can
really transform a room

Use an eggshell finish emulsion paint to create a cool, relaxed sheen for your wooden window frames, and don't just stick to boring white - whether you live in a modern or a traditional home, a bold colour can be really effective. Pick something that resonates with the upholstery or the walls, and you'll create a harmonious space, filled with charm. If you have furnished your room with white painted furniture, then painting window frames a matching white can help to create a real sense of unified harmony.

2: Treat the glass with a funky modern coating

Ideal for ground floor windows in modern homes where net curtains would look stuffy and old fashioned, simple paper-based window treatments allow light through, while providing the privacy of nets. Easy to apply yourself, this is a great way to get a unique feel for your home. If you're trying to avoid nets, but still maximise light, then you could also choose a polyurethane window application, for a crisp modern look.

3: Get the curtains right

Make sure that your curtains or blinds suit the decor - there is nothing worse than a beautifully decorated room that is let down by shabby curtains. If your room is modern, why not use blinds to maximise the space and create a real feeling of light and air.

4: Create a Feature wall

By painting a window wall a different colour to the rest of the room, you can create a real sense of space. Try painting the other three walls white, and then going for a rich colour, such as an olive green, a slate blue or a cochineal red, matched with white window frames for a cool, crisp look.

5: Accessorise your windowsill

It's important to choose the right pieces for your windowsill, and to remember who they are there for. If you love your house to look its best, you'll want to pick pieces that look just as good from outside as they do from the inside - vases and other cylindrical items are perfect for this, but you'll need to make sure that they complement any wooden furniture to avoid clashes.

Create Different Looks With White Painted Furniture

2010-03-01T17:12:00.000Z

Nothing evokes a simple, relaxed elegance like beautifully designed white painted furniture, and because of its easygoing charm, it's possible to create a number of distinct looks by using this style, from a clean, crisp country getaway feel to an up-to-the-minute contemporary space.

Painted furniture is hard wearing, and because the paint protects the wood, you won't need to worry about sunlight bleaching the grain, so you can place white painted furniture anywhere in a room, or even in a conservatory. This gives you great freedom to rearrange if you get bored of a style.

White painted dressing tables
create a classic, sophisticated feel

Modern interior design relies on simplicity and well chosen colours and textures, so white painted furniture forms a great base for creating the style you want. Combine white walls with white painted furniture and wooden flooring and you have a blank canvas - all you need to do to control the mood of the room is select your accessories, and because of the white theme, you can choose bright, bold colours without creating clashes. So if your favourite colour is difficult to incorporate into a room design - are you a fan of lime green, pillarbox red or ultramarine blue? - this makes a great way to create a room designed specifically for your tastes.

If you want to go for a vintage look, then white furniture makes a great start, but you'll need to track down some stylish vintage accessories and check out some traditional homes for inspiration. A great place to start is the Funky Junk Sisters blog, which collects tons of great pictures and information on using white painted furniture as the basis for a funky yet traditional look.

The best thing about white painted furniture is that if you want to switch from modern to classic styles, then all you need to do is redecorate - the furniture will look just as good in either setting.

Add Finishing Touches To Your Home On A Shoestring With Auction Sites

2010-03-01T09:43:00.000Z

It really is amazing what you can find on auction sites these days, so why not use these treasure troves to add the finishing details to your home and create the look you want without forking out a packet. All you need is a little know - how and you will be able to safely and effectively decorate and embellish to your heart's content.

Think out of the box when it comes to auction sites - you can get everything from front doors to fish tanks on them - so whatever it is that you want, no matter how obscure, take a look and see what options are available. You will be able to find things at a fraction of the usual retail price and often they will be fairly new and in great condition so you really could not tell the difference between an auction site bargain and the full price version. Furniture is a tricky one, as it is so important to the comfort and style of your rooms, so if you're looking for something imporatant like a bed or a sofa, it is often best to stick to a brand you are familiar with and buy new.

Online auctions are a great way to save on accessories

Always check the reputation of a seller on the feedback panel, before buying. And never be afraid to ask the seller lots of questions - it is in their interest to answer you and you can find out all the details they have not mentioned in the listing. Check the delivery options too, with larger items often the only option is local pick up so it is worth using the advanced search feature and narrowing your search to your own locality.

An antique door can really help to
perfect a country cottage look, and
they can be found cheaply online

One you find the blinds, vases or bathroom set you always wanted - set a maximum budget and stick to it. The temptation is to let your bidding creep up to beat others, but this will only eat into your budget for other items. Also, once you have bid, you cannot retract so make sure you are certain of your limit. Something to bear in mind is the 'auction sniper', someone who waits without bidding until the final minute or seconds of the auction before jumping in with a high bid, the best thing is to watch closely until the very end to avoid disappointment. Most auction sites offer multiple options for paying, a credit card will offer the greatest protection. And be reassured, many sites offer dispute resolution if anything goes wrong.

Make Your Storage Solutions Stylish

2010-02-26T16:42:00.000Z

While storage items are of course functional there is no reason why they can't be decorative too. Take your style cue from the interiors of the past and bring some ornate features to your bedroom white at the same time solving your storage needs.

A fabulous old fashioned storage solution that is much overlooked these days is the trinket box. Your dressing table no doubt has pots or basket for hair accessories and jewellery, but why not replace these with a gorgeous wooden box with a lid? The advantage of a box of course is that it keeps all clutter neatly out of sight, but at the same time close at hand. Auction sites, charity shops and antique shops and are a great place to find wonderful hand crafted and hand painted designs. And a trinket box also makes a great present for girls young and old.

Trinket boxes come in all shapes and styles

Blanket boxes also are often overlooked these days but are the ideal storage space for all the large extra items you have lying around - but again don't necessarily settle for a plain one. Either look for an antique old item, or you could embellish a more modern one yourself. If you don't have much time to spare, you can always use stencils or even stickers to decorate your blanket box - there are many delicate and sophisticated stickers available in the home section of many stores in both floral and more geometric designs.

This beautiful Metro Oak Blanket Box is a truly
elegant way to keep your room organised

A dressing table is something many girls go without these days, but there is a lot to be said for having a place for everything so that you can cut down on the time you spend getting ready in the mornings. You can find may gorgeous old fashioned designs on auction sites - and if they look a little shabby just give them a little lick of paint yourself. What is a great paint choice for that highly sought after shabby chic look. Another little perk of a dressing table, as well as looking refined, is that it will save you peering into a small mirror or perching uncomfortably, so it is better for your posture.

Get your bedroom in order, but don't think you have to opt for the plain and simple - take your time to seek out the more unique, stylish options and give your room a touch of class.

Paint Your Walls White For A Classic Look

2010-02-26T09:08:00.000Z

There is nothing more timeless than a white interior and it will imbue any room with a sense of opulence and luxury. It will also provide a much sought after calmness and a sense of space that you will find irresistible.

One of the best things about a lick of white paint is the multitude of sins it can hide! Even well picked flat pack items will look grand and sophisticated when you paint them white. When it comes to painting furniture there are a few things to think about – if you would like your furniture to have a gloss look, make sure you use a primer first on the furniture to enable the gloss to dry evenly and soak into the wood, so you can always sand it back later if you change your mind. If you want matt look, it is possible to paint matt emulsion on to wood. You can also save the bother of painting by searching for stylish white painted furniture.

White walls allow you to get creative with colour

Old tired furniture will look wonderfully inviting with white upholstery. But your don't need to feel limited to plain white fabric – there are many embroidered and textured fabrics that will still give the overall minimalist white look, while retaining a little character. A velvet pattern in the fabric will add sumptuousness as you sit and relax.

Nothing emphasises space like white walls

With white interiors you will, of course, need to be vigilant with the upkeep, but it really is worth it. You can use occasional throws to protect beds and sofas and if you opt for gloss finish on the paintwork you will have a hardier surface that is a cinch to clean as spillages will just wipe away.
And of course, you don't want to whitewash everything, take pleasure in the small splashes of colour you chose to incorporate into your white room. Flowers and plants are the perfect accompaniment as they add to the thoughtfulness of the atmosphere, additionally the occasional, well placed patterned cushion.

Finish off your room with white photo frames and vases and you will have created the perfect retreat – a place to curl up and let your thoughts spread out unencumbered and uninterrupted. A white room is a breath of fresh air and a place to escape from our busy lifestyles. If you want some inspiration, check out nicnacmaniac's blog, where you'll find plenty of beautiful images that really make use of white.

Worst Wall Designs

2010-02-25T14:39:00.000Z

At PineSolutions, we like to celebrate good design, but sometimes you can learn a lot from looking at the other end of the spectrum, so today we'll be looking at some of the worst decorated rooms around, and seeing what we can learn from them.

First up is this bizarre feature wall - is it supposed to be a tortoiseshell design, or an approximation of flagstones? Whatever the owners were going for, all they've achieved is an unpleasant and gloomy effect.

This feature wall needs to go, and soon

The next two pictures are from the same house, and while the owners should be commended for the effort hey have put in, the overall effect is headache-inducing. There's nothing strictly wrong with having a mural, but it's a good idea to show some restraint, otherwise it will dominate the room.

This room has all mod cons - you just have to
put up with the inevitable shark nightmares

Could you get to sleep in here?

Continuing the theme of unintentionally terrifying murals in childrens' rooms, check out this truly horrifying shark mural from a Dutch home:

There's a fine line between cute and disturbing

So if you've got an innovative idea for your walls, take a minute to think of the actual effect - the last image shows clearly that the idea may not match the reality.

Take Advantage of the Unique Properties of Pine

2010-02-25T09:10:00.000Z

Pine has a long and varied history as a furniture material, from the simple rustic furniture of 17th century cottages to the stridently modern lines of the Scandinavian design school that came to define the late twentieth century. We at PineSolutions have taken care to assemble an extensive range of pine furniture, with ranges reflecting the many faces of pine through the ages.

Pine furniture is now commonplace, and
with various finishes, can take on a variety of looks

As a fast-growing, low-maintenance wood, pine has always been a highly useful material, and has been prized for hundreds of years by carpenters due to its smoothness and the ease with which it can be worked. Pine furniture was often seen as practical and cheap, but in the 18th century it was combined with oak veneer and used to make high-class furniture for wealthy families. The subtlety and smoothness of the grain didn't fit with the 18th century's focus on dark stained woods with prominent grain, so solid pine furniture was often painted. Nowadays, Pine's delicate appearance makes it highly sought after for rustically styled furniture.

The delicacy and smoothness of pine's grain
makes it a great way to create beautiful
furniture at a reasonable cost

In the mid-20th century, Scandinavian designers began to create furniture, working from the premise that beautiful and functional everyday objects should not only be affordable to the rich and the powerful, but to all. Pine was the ideal material - its relative cheapness ensured that material costs were kept down, while its versaitility allowed designers to free their imaginations and create new, innovative forms.

8 Top Tips For Breathing Life into a Tired Living Room

2010-02-24T14:05:00.000Z

With spring just around the corner, now's the time to start thinking about a new look for your home. To get you started, we've assembled the top 8 ways to make an impact in your living room, so read on and see if you find some inspiration.

With a little planning, you can really
transform your living room

1: Try a new colour scheme

The quickest way to bring a whole new feel to a room is by giving your walls an exciting new colour scheme, filling your room with a refreshed atmosphere. To maximise the effect, go for a bold change – if your walls have been white, then go for a bold colour like slate blue or cochineal red, or if you've had floral wallpaper up, go for a minimal white. Check out the BBC's Homes site for some great articles on colour selection.

2: Rejuvenate your upholstery

You may still love your sofas and chairs, but sometimes covers can become boring and worn. Why not invest in some new fabric covers for your furniture, with some complementary throws and scatter cushions to complete the effect.

3: Invest in some new furniture

The best way to get a great new look for your room while also maximising your comfort is to invest in some new furniture. A new coffee table makes a great centrepiece that will make the whole room look different, especially if it is paired with a new matching sideboard.

4: Update your lighting scheme

One of the best ways to really make a difference to the way a room looks is to come up with a new lighting scheme. Try installing wall lamps, or even a chandelier to bring a whole new feel to your room.

5: Get creative with textiles

It's easy to make an impact by simply updating your curtains, throws and other textiles, and introducing a new colour palette that will really bring a new feel to your room.

6: Bring your fireplace up to date

Give your room a whole new aspect with a new fireplace or fire surround. Choose from the many innovative modern options that are available from suppliers, or go out hunting for that perfect antique fireplace, accessorised with a traditional cast iron tongs and poker set.

7: Find the perfect rug

When you find the right rug, it can really bring the whole room together, so why not go looking for a warm, thick new centrepiece for your floor. If you love the traditional look of a Turkish carpet, remember that you can find inexpensive copies from internet suppliers that retain the charming patterns of the originals, while adding a modern emphasis on long-lasting comfort.

8: Use some well chosen accessories

The right vase or occasional table can really make a difference, so why not take the time to pick out some carefully-selected pieces to complement your decor? If your home is modern, go for simple, clean lines and bold colours, while if you want a traditional look, use console tables to present some beautiful ornaments.

Achieve Some Great Looks With Oak Furniture

2010-02-24T11:56:00.000Z

Oak is best known as the wood of choice for traditional furniture designers, and it remains one of the most attractive and effective ways to create a traditional feel for your home, but today's designers have also noted oak's unique charm and imposing good looks, and adapted it to form the basis of a more modern sensibility that marries the warmth of oak to a more contemporary style.

Oak is best known as a traditional material

With such a variety of oak furniture available, it's worth considering how oak could refresh your home. For traditional looks, seek out rich, woodstained oak furniture to set the tone, while for contemporary spaces, it's a good idea to find pieces that make the most of oak's uniquely tactile texture.

The unique qualities of oak make it ideal
for contemporary furniture

From the traditional warmth of the Rustic Oak range to the sleek modernity of the Contemporary Oak collection, we've brought together a stunning selection of expertly made solid oak furniture that offers something to suit any home. Only the highest quality oak is used, from the rich tones of American Red Oak to the understated elegance of Russian White Oak, to ensure that every piece is one to be treasured.

Oak has a distinctive and unparalleled character

For more information on the unique qualities of oak, check out our oak information page.

Use Oak to Bring Warmth to A Contemporary Bedroom

2010-02-18T10:52:00.000Z

When most people think of oak, they think of heavy, ornate furniture that is unmistakably traditional in style, but the new generation of furniture designers have found innovative ways to use the distinctive character of oak to create contemporary furniture that makes use of its warmth and colouring.

Contemporary style is defined by sleek, flowing lines and the careful combination of textures, but in recent years, this has often resulted in rooms that are cold and in which it can be difficult to relax. Modern designers have turned to the uniquely warm and charming characteristics of oak to help to solve this problem, resulting in furniture that combines the up-to-the-minute cool of contemporary design with the appealing textures and colours of oak.

Surprisingly, oak can be a light, welcoming
presence in a contemporary room

Of course, too much oak can overpower the design of a room, so you'll want to pick your pieces carefully. Choose an oak bed and bedside cabinet, to create a focal point, but you'll need to vary the textures surrounding it. Use fabric to dress a four poster bed, or bring in an upholstered chaise longue to provide contrast.

If you want some more advice on how to use oak and other traditional timbers to create a contemporary bedroom, check out channel4.com's in depth article.

Bring A Little Romance To Your Bedroom

2010-02-16T15:17:00.000Z

Valentine's Day has been and gone, but there's no need to say goodbye to romance - check out these stylish and seductive decorating tips and keep the passion burning all year round.

While we often dress our bedrooms up for Valentine's Day, this usually amounts to a temporary change that would be impractical in the long term - rose petals strewn over the bed might be romantic, but it's hardly the kind of thing you can do every day. If you want to bring a lasting romantic atmosphere to your bedroom, you'll need to think of more fundamental ways to jazz up the space.

This room uses co-ordinated fabrics
for a seductive look

Use fabrics to create a sensual, dramatic feel

Flowing fabric is perfect for creating a sense of drama in a bedroom, so why not replace blinds or curtains with floor-length drapes in a soft, flowing material? If you have a four poster bed, then you can twist and drape a matching fabric around the posts and finials, and even hang a white muslin canopy for a really intimate feel. For a really romantic look, co-ordinate all your fabrics from curtains to bed-dressing to scatter-cushions and throws.

Use furniture to set the scene

If your bedroom furniture has seen better days, maybe it's time to pick a whole new set that will help to set a seductive mood. A four poster bed makes a great focal point, and for an extra sensual touch, a chaise-longue really makes an impact, especially when draped with a silky throw and a few scatter cushions. Bedside tables and occasional tables are useful for placing lamps, plants and ornaments on for a rich, opulent effect, while more functional pieces such as wardrobes and dressing tables can take away from the romantic effect, so it might be worth your while to convert a spare room into a dressing room so you can take full control over the style of the bedroom.

This room makes the most of simple touches

Lighting really makes a difference

No matter how romantic your decor is, the wrong lighting can totally kill the mood, so take your time to plan a lighting scheme. Dimmable switches are a must for main lights, and it's a good idea to have several lighting options, at different levels in the room - think a standard lamp in the corner behind a chaise longue, soft lamps on lamp tables in corners and alcoves, and stylish bedside lights that are bright enough to read by but not so bright that they make the room feel stark. It's worth getting a large bedside table, then placing a granite sheet on top so that you can light candles without damaging the wood.

If you want some more inspiration, check out apartmenttherapy.com's Romantic Bedroom Week feature, which has some really innovative ideas.

How To Choose A Wooden Bed

2010-02-16T11:30:00.000Z

No matter what style your bedroom is, whether traditional, contemporary, minimalist or eclectic, a solid wooden bed makes a beautiful centrepiece. Wooden beds have a character that will last for years, allowing you to hand down a treasured piece of furniture through the generations.

Wood is easy to care for, simply requiring the occasional wax or polish, and over the years it will mature, deepening its character and taking on a luxurious patina. If you'd like some advice on woodcare, check out this great article from the Telegraph.

The first thing to consider when choosing a wooden bed is the material - many woods are used in furniture making, and each has its own particular properties and characteristics that will influence how it affects the look of your room. Paler woods, such as ash, pine and oak, tend to look their best in contemporary surroundings, although oak can be given a traditional stain which brings out the reds and browns of its grain and places it alongside timbers such as mahogany and teak at the more traditional end of the spectrum. It's worth getting some wood samples to make sure that the wood you choose is right for your room.

This contemporary oak bed helps to
create a bright and breezy room

You also need to consider the style of bed - will you opt for a four poster or a traditional panel bed? do you want a low or a high foot end? A four poster can form a great centrepiece in either a traditional or a contemporary space - you just need to pick a design that complements the style of your room.

If your room is too small for a four poster, then it's a good idea to consider a simple framed bed that will not dominate the room, otherwise you could end up with more bed than room.

Once you've picked your bed, why not invest in some matching pieces, such as a bedside table, wardrobe or dressing table, to bring a sense of harmony to your room. If you're green-minded, then it's also a good idea to find beds that have been made with timber from sustainable forests, to make sure that you minimise you environmental impact.

Stylish Contemporary Bedding Ideas

2010-02-15T14:15:00.000Z

Creating a stylish, inspiring contemporary bedroom doesn't stop when you've chosen the decor and picked out the furniture - in fact, one of the most striking elements of a bedroom design can often be seen as an afterthought. Bedding has the ability to change the atmosphere of a room quickly and simply, and by having several alternate bedding options, you can create a variety of looks.

Buying bedding online can be significantly cheaper than on the high street, so search your favourite online stores for discounts. mydeco.com has a great selection of contemporary bedding available, so why not explore their site?

The important thing to consider when selecting your bedding is the colour - a badly chosen duvet cover can create clashes that ruin the relaxing qualities of your bedroom, while a well chosen set can make your bed even more inviting and create a sense of calm and restful elegance. However, choosing a colour isn't always straightforward, and some concrete guidance is often useful. If you need help to decide on your colour, why not check out the BBC's interior design colour wheel, which helps to sort calamitous clashes from complementary accents.

If you need some expert colour advice, head
over to the BBC's Interiors site, and try out
their interactive colour wheel.

One way to avoid the problem of colour clashes is to choose a monochrome colour scheme for your bedroom, with a white painted bed and bedside cabinet. This classic look is hard to get wrong, and can result in a fantastic room that is both invigorating and relaxing, such as this one, designed by Sir Terence Conran:

A monochrome look is always stylish

If you like Sir Terence Conran's design, you may be interested in reading this interview with the man himself, conducted by mydeco.com

Of course, as well as colour, there are other things to look out for. First among these is the feel and texture of the fabric - do you like velvety soft brushed cotton, or do you prefer the crisp and refreshing feel of expertly spun Egyptian cotton? This is a situation in which online retail can fall short - it's hard to get a sense of the feel of a fabric from a photo on a website. What you can do, is to visit the high street and check out the feel of the various materials avaiable. Then, armed with this knowledge, you can scour the web for the best deal.

Bring A Little Romance To Your Bedroom For Valentine's Day

2010-02-12T17:11:00.001Z

With Valentine's day fast approaching, it can seem like a desperate rush to get your presents, cards and romantic plans in order, but in all that bustle, it can sometimes be easy to forget the little things that really help to create a romantic atmosphere. Check out these handy tips to turn your bedroom into a romantic getaway, and let the one you love know that you really care.

1 Set the mood with some seductive lighting

Nothing creates a romantic atmosphere like soft, low lighting, so it's worth taking a little time out to make sure that your lighting options fit the mood - If you're limited to a bedside light and the main bedroom light, why not invest in some free standing dimmable lighting, such as paper-shaded floor lamps, to really set the scene.

Chocolates are always a hit, especially
when they're kept next to the bed!

2 Use bedding to add to the romantic atmosphere

One way to make Valentine's day special is to break out some new, sumptuous bedding to bring your bed to life, either in cool, crisp Egyptian cotton or silky and seductive satin. Bedding will also provide an inviting look to the room.

3 Get your music choices ready ahead of time

Music is the food of love, so it's a good idea to pick some romantic choices and get them set up in a playlist ahead of time - after all, you don't want to spoil the mood by having to fiddle with CDs or an iPod. Choose soft music that won't get in the way of conversation - if you really want to create some romance, why not line up a playlist of classical music, such as Chopin, whose Prelude in E Minor is a long standing romantic favourite.

This room is perfect for a Valentines Day to
remember - check out the soft lighting

4 Don't forget the details

Once you've got the basics in order, think of a couple of extra touches that will really show your partner that you care - why not set a some champagne in an ice bucket on the bedside table, with some expensive chocolates or other nibbles to share.

Top Tips For A Great Night's Sleep

2010-02-11T16:06:00.000Z

We spend nearly a third of our lives in bed, so it's worth taking the time to make sure that you've got everything in place for a great night's sleep. Check out these handy hints and tips, and you'll soon be slumbering soundly.

Is your bed large enough?

You should have enough room for both you and your partner to stretch out and have room to move about. Think of upgrading to a king size bed, especially if you toss and turn at night.

What's nicer than climbing into a comfy bed?

Do you have the right mattress?

Mattresses come in a bewildering variety of forms, materials and firmnesses, so it's worth visiting a mattress supplier and trying out a range of options, from memory foam to traditional pocket sprung mattresses.

Get the right duvet

There's nothing nicer than settling down for the night beneath a soft, billowing duvet, so it's worth spending a little extra to get one that really does the job - the warmest and softest option is Siberian goose down, which is prized for its exceptional silky-softness and insulating properties. Go for down pillows to really give yourself a night time treat.

What about bedding?

The choice of pillowcases, duvet covers and sheets is key, as these are the fabrics that will be against your skin. For maximum softness choose egyptian cotton sheets and bedding, and you're bound to notice the difference.

If you want some more ideas to improve your sleep, check out this article from www.helpguide.org

Bedding Tips For Traditional Bedrooms

2010-02-10T11:23:00.000Z

There are many different traditional looks that can bring a touch of time-honoured warmth to a bedroom, from a classic country cottage style that emphasises space, unfussy practicality and pale, natural wood tones to a more opulent feel, with flowing curtains, dark-stained furniture and luxurious soft furnishings, and if you're redesigning your bedroom, you'll want to make sure that you choose the right bedding to really get the look that you're after.

Bed dressing can have a dramatic effect on a room - Even the most beautifully designed four poster bed will seem lacking without a sumptuous bed covering.

This room uses bedding for a hazy, relaxed feel

Start with the duvet, as this will be a very personal choice that reflects the way you like to sleep. If you like to snuggle up in bed under a thick blanket, there's nothing warmer than Siberian goose down, although this can be a bit heavy for the summer months. One solution is to get an 'All-seasons' duvet- essentially this is two duvets, one four tog and one eight tog connected with buttons to make one thick twelve tog duvet. This allows three levels of warmth and should keep you cosy and comfy all the year round.

Next it's time to select your duvet cover. For maximum comfort go for fine Egyptian cotton in the design of your choice, although it's best to make sure that you pick a pattern that accentuates the style of your room, and for traditional bedrooms, there are many options. You can go for the full traditional valance, sheet, duvet cover and blanket/throw look, with carefully matched fabrics creating a sumptuous and opulent look. If you want the look but want to keep it simple, then go for a full set in white cotton, which is perfect for a spacious, airy cottage bedroom feel.

If your bed, wardrobe and other items of bedroom furniture are made of solid wood, it's a good idea to choose colours that reflect the natural qualities of the wood. Order fabric samples and hold them up to the timber to see how well the fabric can enhance your furniture's appearance.

If you need some more inspiration, check out this great feature from channel4.com

How To Give your Bedroom A Contemporary Twist

2010-02-02T16:46:00.001Z

If you're on the lookout for some stylish ways to revamp your bedroom in a contemporary style then check out these handy ideas, and create a cool, sophisticated haven that you will love to relax in.

The first thing to consider when designing a contemporary bedroom is how to create a feeling of space. Contemporary style is defined by its creative use of space, so this is a chance for you to flex your imagination and come up with something uniquely stylish that really expresses your individual personality.

This bedroom may be a bit too modern for some

Let's start by stripping the room right back - no fussy picture rails, wainscoting or other room features, remember, the watchword is simplicity. If your room is small, you face your first creative challenge, in selecting a colour and decoration scheme that will create the illusion of space. Pale colours such as ivory, white or even lemon yellow reflect light around a room, adding to the feeling of space. Choose curtains in plain colours that can be pulled right back to maximise light. You could also consider painting the floorboards for a Parisian-style feel.

Once you've got the room in order, it's time to furnish it. If your room is small, you may want to consider using a spare room to house your wardrobe, dressing table and chest of drawers, so that the bedroom can be dedicated to sleeping.

The bed is the most important part of any bedroom, and it's worth taking some time to consider your options. Even though your room is contemporary, a solid wooden bed can really help to introduce some warmth as well as some variation in texture.

For more great bedroom ideas, check out casa sugar's feature on the top bedroom trends for 2010

Double or King? How To Decide On The Size Of Your Bed

2010-02-01T15:02:00.000Z

Choosing a new bed is a serious commitment - it will be your partner for years to come, and if you're going to get on well, you'll need to make sure that you choose carefully. The first decision to make is on the size of your bed - will you go for a double, or opt for a king size?

It may sound obvious, but the main consideration in this case is the size of the room, although it is not as simple as it may seem. Even if your room is huge, you may have different ideas for the space - by going for a double over a king, you may be able to fit an extra wardrobe or a stylish and seductive chaise-longue into your room plan, or, conversely, you can minimise the furniture in a small bedroom, relegating wardrobes and dressing tables to a spare room, and dedicate the whole space to the bed.

If you have the space, a king size
bed can be luxurious and inviting

The difference in sizes between a double and king is not much, but it makes a difference in room design - a double bed measures around 4'6 in width, while a king size comes in at 5', but that six inches can mean the difference between having a bedside cabinet on either side of the bed and either you or your partner having nowhere to put their bedtime drink.

Minimise furniture to maximise your bed!

As well as the size of your room, another important consideration is your sleeping habits. If you and your partner both need your own territory at night, and fight over space, then a king could give you both plenty of room to toss and turn. If you're the kind of couple who like to sleep close, you may want the cosy feeling of a double, which can be just as luxurious and romantic, providing you select some beautiful bedding to complement it.

Using Bunk Beds to Create a Beautiful Kids' Room

2010-02-01T12:28:00.000Z

Picking beds for your childrens' room can be daunting, especially as kids grow up so fast - will the bed you pick today meet their needs in a year or two? A great way to get some versatility is to choose bunk beds, which can be separated when your kids outgrow them.

Bunk beds are a great way to maximise the floor space in your childrens' rooms, and even if your kids' room is on the large side, using a bunk bed can help you to create space for them to play in, or to get their homework done, without cluttering the room with furniture. When they're old enough, you can split the beds, giving each child their own separate bed, so it can be a good idea to order two matching bedside cabinets when you buy your bunk bed, so that when you split the beds you will have matching furniture.

bunk beds can be stylish as well as practical

If you need a bunk bed to make the most of a small room, why not look for a bed that includes some storage, allowing you to keep the room as clear of clutter as it can be. If the bed does not come with its own storage, you can buy under-bed storage drawers that slide out on wheels, letting your kids keep their toys carefully stored and safe from damage.

Sharing rooms can be a chore for a lot of kids, but bunk beds can be easily customised to reflect your childrens' personalities and allow them a little privacy - you can create a cosy little reading nook by mounting a curtain beneath the top bunk, allowing the bottom bunk to be curtained off into its own little room. You can also put curtains above the bed on the ceiling to allow the top bunk some privacy too. Try selecting fabrics that feature some of your kids' favourite cartoon characters to really make them feel like they have their own space.

If you need some more inspiration on how to use bunk beds to create a beautiful room for your children, check out this great feature from about.com

Worst Home Designs

2010-01-28T16:22:00.000Z

Normally, we like to celebrate great interior design, but today we're going to take a look at some of the most unpleasant home blunders around, from neon velour curtains to hideously chintzy sofas, and try to learn some valuable lessons from them.

Our first horrible home is this explosion of 70s excess, filled with over-the-top colours and horrendous clashes. Some of the furniture, such as the retro coffee table, may look good in a much less busy environment, but taken as a whole, this house is a migraine-inducing blizzard of optical confusion. Such bold and bright colours need to be contrasted with some plainer areas, to create a harmonious feel.

This home defines excess - how would you tone it down?

Could you get to sleep in this room?

Next up, the owners of this house have tried to stamp their personality all over their home, but only succeeded in creating a mess of poorly-thought through and hugely distracting features. First up is the conservatory, with its massive indoor rock garden and flimsy, unpleasant freestanding bar. Rather than go for such an ugly and inconveniently placed unit, the owners should have chosen a sideboard that could be moved to the side of the room if necessary. The indoor garden is bound to attract insects, and requires a great deal of maintenance, while the bar has not been designed with any kind of style in mind. The ugly pool table cover and zebra print rug don't do the room any favours either.

Would you like to spend time in here?

And now through to the bathroom - don't worry, that's paint on the walls. By attempting to create a homely, hand made look, the owners of this house have slipped up badly, and created a truly nauseous bathroom.

Don't worry, it's paint, but it's still unpleasant

Believe it or not, these kitchen cabinets aren't dirty - they've been rubbed with old teabags to give the impression of age, but the place looks smoke damaged. A distressed look can be stylish, but keep it subtle, and make sure it doesn't end up being just distressing.

This kitchen looks like a bomb has hit it

Our final home is in Mexico, and its owners obviously have a peculiar affinity for Louis Vuitton:

How would your neighbours react
if you did this to your home?

So what is the lesson here? All of these houses suffer from being too busy, and the owners have got carried away with implementing a style without considering how it actually looks. So, before you redecorate your home, consider your options carefully, and make sure that you come up with a careful plan that makes the best use of your space.

How To Make The Most Of Your Hall

2010-01-28T11:37:00.000Z

The hall is the first room that visitors will see when entering your house, so instead of seeing it as simply a corridor between rooms, why not take the time to create a welcoming and inviting entryway, perfect for receiving guests so that you can be confident about showing off your home.

What you can achieve with your hall all depends on how big it is. Some hallways, especially those open-plan type ones that also incorporate a staircase, can hold large items of furniture, and actually serve a useful purpose as well as setting the tone for your home. A comfy armchair, footstool and occasional table makes a great reading or telephone nook, and will show visitors that your home is comfortable yet filled with practical touches.

A console table makes a
great addition to a hallway

If your hall is smaller, it's still worthwhile using furniture to create a cosy and inviting feel. Look out for slimline console tables which make the perfect place to display family portraits or treasured ornaments.

It's worth spending a little time thinking about the choice of decor - you want to create a cosy, inviting feel, so it's important to find a warm colour scheme, and to match it with soft, pleasing lighting. If your home is traditionally styled, consider using simple warm colours such as cochineal for the walls, and a traditional carpet, accented with Turkish rugs.

A hallway can provide a handy
place to sit and take phone calls

If your home is more modern, then why not be bold and go for an unusual modern colour. Visit mydeco.com for some great colour scheme inspirations. housetohome.co.uk also has a fantastic gallery of the best hall designs, so why not check it out and get your imagination going.

How To Give Your Home Office A Traditional Look

2010-01-27T16:50:00.001Z

There's nothing like an old-fashioned study to make you feel at the same time relaxed, comfortable and businesslike. In today's age of flimsy flat-packed home offices, wouldn't you like to bring a little of the sense of solidity and timelessness of times gone by into your study?

To get the look start with the walls - wood panelling is the most desirable option, but can be prohibitively expensive. A cheaper option is wainscoting, but if you're on a budget, even this can be a bit much. A cheap option is to use a dado rail to split the wall in half, and then either paint or paper the lower section a darker colour, accentuating the open space above.

A traditional study is a great place to think

The most important item of furniture in any study is the desk, and in a traditional room, it is even more important to find the right desk. Think heavy, chunky furniture in solid dark-stained wood. If, however, your room is a little on the dark side, you may want to opt for lacquered oak or ash to bring a bit of light to proceedings. Keep the look goinf by using matching wooden shelving and filing cabinets.

If you find yourself writing letters by hand, there is no more comfortable and luxurious writing surface than leather, and a desk with a green leather writing surface is the definition of this look. However, leather inlay can be tricky to keep in good order, especially if you have children who might draw on it. Choose a solid wooden desk, in dark oak or stained beech, and invest in a separate leather writing surface. This allows you to leave space for a computer, which could permanently mark leather.

A rug is vital for the look, especially if it's a Turkish woven rug, which helps to give the room a professorial feel and provides a focal point around which to arrange the furniture.

Nothing evokes that timeless study
feel like a banker's lamp

The ultimate finishing touch for a traditional study is a green glass banker's lamp, which casts a warm glow over the room, and especially complements leather and dark wood tones. Search online for antique lamps, or if you're on a budget, look for a cheaper reproduction, and get the look at a fraction of the price.

How To Create A Traditional Dining Room

2010-01-27T13:14:00.000Z

Sitting down to a delicious meal in a beautifully designed, refined traditional dining room is one of the real pleasures of life, and with this handy guide, you and your family will soon be eating amidst the rich tones and timeless charm of a traditional dining area.

Of course, no traditional dining room would be complete without a beautiful dining set as a centrepiece. There are many woods that are used to create dining tables, so it's worth thinking about what effect each timber might have. Pine, although mainly used in modern, Scandinavian inspired pieces, is also used for traditional pieces, and looks especially good when it has been stained and lacquered. Oak is the classic choice for an old-style dining table, as its natural colouring and grain are the epitomy of traditional style.

This room uses frame wainscoting to break up the walls

For the full traditional dining experience, you'll need a dining table, dining chairs, a sideboard, and maybe even a console table or display cabinet, depending on how much space you have.

Once you've chosen your furniture, consider the type of decor you would like to go for. Within the traditional style, there are many options, and many possibilities to create something special. For an opulent, time-honoured look, why not consider wainscoting the lower part of the walls? If you're designing your room around a wooden dining set, you can use wainscoting to complement the wood - if your table is oak, oak wainscoting will allow the timber's distinctive grain to be the defining presence in the room. By reducing wall space, the impact of wallpaper is reduced, so that you can choose a bold pattern without it overwhelming the room.

The look of this room is defined by its stylish
stained and lacquered oak furniture

If you're still looking for information, check out this great guide to creating a traditional dining room from hgtv.com

How To Choose The Right Sideboard

2010-01-26T17:05:00.000Z

Sideboards are highly versatile pieces of furniture that can really help you to win the war on cluuter, but with so many styles and looks available, it can sometimes be difficult to know where to start. That's where this handy guide comes in - we'll take you through the different types of sideboard, and help you to find the one that is just right for you.

This contemporary wooden sideboard
combines modern style with traditional warmth

Before you can pick the right sideboard, you need to think about the style you want to achieve in your dining room, and how a well chosen sideboard can help you to succeed. If you want to take advantage of a traditional sideboard's air of refinement and sophistication, then you can either look for an antique, or find a reproduction, and use it to bring a traditional charm to the room.

Traditional rooms are fairly straightforward, as selecting the right sideboard is usually a matter of going for the piece that most appeals, but if you are looking for a sideboard for a modern room, it can prove to be more tricky. Finding the right sideboard for a contemporary setting is hard, because most modern interior design relies on unusual combinations of texture and style, and an item as large as a sideboard can easily dominate a room.

The best way to proceed is to consider the materials and styles that are already at work in your room, and then try to find a sideboard that will harmonise with them. For instance, if you've gone for the classic white minimalist look, with a glass dining table, sleek leather dining chairs, and wooden flooring, why not choose a wooden sideboard to accent the floor, instead of a more modern storage unit that might make the room cold. The subtle air of charm that surrounds a wooden sideboard can be a really useful way to introduce some warmth into a contemporary space.

So make sure when you're browsing sideboards that you consider not just the style of the design, but the effect that each piece would have on your room.

Worst Kitchen Designs

2010-01-26T11:45:00.000Z

We've all seen one - a kitchen that is lost somewhere underneath a hideous decor scheme, cupboards fronted with ugly doors, badly-planned spaces with no room for food preparation. Today, we're taking a look at some of the worst kitchens out there.

Our first catastrophic kitchen is going for the crispness and clarity of a monochrome design, but is lost in a wilderness of busy lines and shapes, cluttered worktops and a rather horrible border around the top of the wall (and used as an accent beneath the cooker's fan hood) that features some rather portly dancing chefs. The problem with trying to achieve a harmonious simplicity is that if you fail to keep things organisied, and don't make sure that there is a place for everything, you soon end up with a kitchen disaster rather than the cool, sleek space that you had in mind. The lesson here is to be realistic about storage and clutter, and to decorate with your family's habits in mind. Try using wooden sideboards or dressers to maximise your storage.

This kitchen needs to be simplified

Our second kitchen nightmare is this awfully bodged repair job spotted by an estate agent. The owners of this kitchen have tried to hide a hole caused by moisture damage using the lid of a storage box. What's more, they then put their home on the market, leaving this terrible job to try and tempt buyers. Needless to say, the estate agent was unable to sell the property until the hole was properly attended to.

Would you buy this house?

Our next kitchen demonstrates the need for consistency and thoroughness. While the pink cupboard doors may not be to everybody's taste, they do speak of a clear design vision. The whole room is let down by the hideous window covering, which resembles a piece cut from the world's largest and loudest Hawaiian shirt. Remember - even if every other aspect of a room is flawless, even one detail out of place can ruin a room.

Attend to the details if you want to avoid this

Our final kitchen is a mess of clashing floral designs and dull, drab '70s wooden cabinets, that is sure to bring on a migraine should you find yourself spending more than five minutes looking at it. Make sure you don't overload your kitchen with patterns, as they can make a room look extremely busy. Instead, keep things simple, as no room attracts clutter like a kitchen, and your decor needs to create a clean, inviting look.

Could you put up with this?

American lifestyle presenter Rachael Ray held a contest to find America's worst kitchen. If you want to see the winning kitchen, and how it was fixed, check out this page, which recaps the whole contest, and see how you can turn a kitchen nightmare into a culinary dream.

How To Turn Your Living Room Mexican

2010-01-25T10:50:00.000Z

Today, January 25th, is reported to be the most depressing day of the British year, so what better time to bring a little sunshine and good cheer into your home? With this handy guide, you'll soon be able to transform your living room into a delightful, Mexican inspired space that is filled with warmth, character, colour and style.

The basis for Mexican style is found in a colour palette comprising of cactus-like greens, adobe red and desert-toned neutral hues, with accents provided by bursts of bright yellow, dusty orange and deep turqoise or teal.

Check out how the colour of the walls
brings out the warmth of the wood

One of the best ways to get that spicy Mexican feel is through the use of distressed wood. If you have any exposed wooden features, such as beams or panelling, in your living room, then strip them back and gently abrade the surfaces until they are rough, and then rub in some dark pigment wax to bring the unusual shapes of the wood into relief. Wipe off excess wax with a dry cloth. You can also use a little sandpaper to abrade the highest points to provide highlights.

The distressed theme should be continued to the furniture - you can buy beautiful hand distressed wooden furniture, or, for more ecological brownie points, furniture that has been made from reclaimed timber, to give your room that glorious lived-in feel.

Leather chairs and sofas, especially elegantly worn ones, really help to bring the relaxed, organic feel of a Mexican room to life. It looks especially good if it has an exposed wooden frame, which can match the rest of your furniture, bringing your sofa into close style proximity with your coffee table.

Mexican style rooms can take colour
combinations that would clash elsewhere

The Mexican look is all in the details - hang striped fabrics from the walls, and find Mexican or South American designed vases and ornaments. There are many little projects you can do to help with your Mexican theme - if you have a fireplace and a bit of spare time, why not check out hgtv.com's guide to creating a Mexican-style fireplace screen, perfect for bringing your new look together.

These antique Mexican vases
make great accent pieces

If you've been bitten by the Mexican style bug, why not check out Donna McMenamin's book on traditional Mexican design, available through Amazon.

So take a fresh look at your living room, and decide whether it might benefit from a bit of spicing up!

Top Green Decorating Trends For 2010

2010-01-22T15:56:00.000Z

2010 has arrived, and the styles of the last decade are in the process of being refreshed and challenged by a whole host of new eco-friendly decorating trends, so check out this handy guide and discover what will be hot in the year to come.

It's a new decade, and time for your home to go green, and we don't mean painting your walls - in 2010 there will be a huge number of environmentally conscious ideas for the home, that will allow you

This recycled bath makes a great sofa

Bamboo flooring is predicted to be a huge hit, both in terms of style and as a truly eco-friendly product. Bamboo grows at a phenomenal rate, and by using it to replace more slow-growing trees, forests can be protected. Look out for bamboo ornaments and accent pieces to harmonise your new bamboo floor.

Bamboo flooring is both stylish and eco friendly

Energy efficiency is a real concern in the modern world, and with the arrival of the new decade, designers have begun to produce new heating and lighting options for your home that combine an emphasis on sustainability and efficiency with a real eye for style. For information on eco friendly heating, check out the Green Consumer Guide's report on heating.

Recycling has really taken off over the last few years, with almost all of us doing our bit to re-use our plastics, glass and paper, but recycling as a style choice has arrived - check out Web Urbanist's guide to some cool retro pieces that are entirely made from materials as diverse and overlooked as pens, shopping trolleys and tin cans.

One of the hot new trends predicted to take off in 2010 is the use of room dividers to separate areas off, so you can have a sofa and coffee table in one part of the room, and a desk and shelving in another, without the place appearing cluttered. Tinydecorblog.com has a fantastic piece detailing how to find eco-friendly room division ideas, so why not get ahead on a hot new fashion and do your buit for the environment, all at the same time.

How to use doors to enhance your furniture

2010-01-22T09:06:00.000Z

When you're decorating a room to make the most of new furniture, it's easy to stop when you've seen to the most obvious jobs - the walls, floor and curtains - but why not take a look at our guide to some of the creative ways that you can make the most out of your doors, using them to enhance the look of your room and make your new furniture really look its best.

Whatever the style of your room, there are ways to make your doors do more than keep out draughts. First you just need to decide on the kind of look that you want to achieve.

By matching the colour of doors and walls,
you can achieve a striking effect

If you want to maximise your space, consider removing internal doors for an airy contemporary feel. Of course, if you don't have central heating, this can be an impractical option, so why not try painting doors to match walls, using emulsion paint to help the door blend in. If you're really feeling adventurous, you could even wallpaper a door to match the wall, with a funky transparent doorknob to complete the effect. This makes furniture really stand out, and allows you to emphasise the lines of modern sofas, coffee tables and shelving units.

These ultra-modern wooden doors are perfect
for bringing out the best in wooden furniture

If you have furnished your room with wooden furniture, you can achieve a harmonious, flowing and organic look by having a bespoke door made in the same wood as your furniture. Oak furniture has beautiful colouring, and by investing in an oak or oak veneer door, you can draw attention to the distinctive colouring and sttractive grain. If you can't afford a bespoke door, why not head to the auction house and see if you can snap up a cheap antique door, though make sure you measure up before you buy. If the door's a little big, don't worry, any carpenter will be able to cut it down for a reasonable fee.

You can also use antique door furniture, such as doorknobs and bolts, to give your room a traditional feel and to accentuate any fittings on your furniture. Auctions are great places to snap up doorknobs for cheap. If you need guidance on how to fit an antique doorknob, check out this video which provides detailed instructions.

So take a fresh look at your doors, and see if you can use them to really bring out the best in your furniture.

How To Protect Your Dining Set Against Damage

2010-01-21T16:08:00.000Z

The dining table must serve many purposes- it is at the centre of family life, from the Sunday roast to birthday teas, and it is also the setting for more formal entertainments, from relaxed dinner parties to important occasions. These different uses all take their toll on a table, and it's vital to make sure that it stays protected.

If you are worried that your new dining table might get scratched and marked, why not consider a glass or perspex cover? A transparent protective surface allows you to enjoy the warnth and character of the wood, while also ensuring that the table is never scratched or stained. A tempered glass top also allows you to place hot dishes directly onto the table or tablecloth without worrying about marking the wood.

Protect your wood to keep it looking its best

Most solid wooden furniture will be finished with either a wax or a lacquer, which will protect the wood against moisture damage and other environmental dangers, but when serving hot food, care must be taken, as lacquer can crack and wax can melt, and your table can become discoloured and prone to warping. The traditional solution to this problem is the trivet, and trivets of all styles can be found on the high street. Make sure you get trivets that fit in with the style of your room, as they will come in very handy at dinner parties, where you will really want to impress. For convenience, you could even invest in a Lazy Susan.

Of course, if your table's finish does become damaged, it is possible to restore it yourself. First, lightly sand the wood to an even finish, then wash with a 1:5 mixture of white vinegar and water, and leave overnight to dry. White vinegar has disinfectant properties, and will ensure that there is nothing lingering in the wood. Once the wood is dry, apply a quality furniture wax, or a layer of Danish Oil. If you fancy a change, you can always use a woodstain to give your table a new accent. Continue the new look by doing the same with your sideboard.

The best way to esnure that your dining table lasts as long as it can is to keep it clean. For some expert tips on how best to clean a wooden table, check out this video of expert cleaner Ann Myrick demonstrating her tried-and-tested techniques.

Leather vs. Fabric Sofas

2010-01-21T09:36:00.000Z

Investing in a new sofa is an exciting selection process, but the sheer number of choices can be overwhelming. It really depends on your home, style and needs. When choosing furniture, people have difficulty choosing between leather and fabric. The answer depends on you. Here are a few factors to consider.

Style

Fabric sofas can be purchased in a wider variety of colors and patterns, so there is greater style potential with a wider variety available. Leather couches, however, come in a range of solid shades, though they can be artfully distressed to change the style of the furniture for a little variation. Fabric gives you more of a range, although you can get imaginative to a certain extent with leather. Both leather and fabric furniture can be accessorised with lamp tables and other wooden furniture for a refined and sophisticated look.

Comfort

The comfort level of fabric depends on the type of fabric you choose. You can purchase fabric furniture ranging from thick, casual denims to fine, formal fabrics. Many people find fabric couches to be more comfortable as leather tends to be hot and stickier on the skin. Leather warms to your body when you sit, creating a heated effect. Fabric feels more like a soft jacket or clothes.

Fabric sofas can create a cool contemporary look

Easy Cleaning

Leather features a protective, nonabsorbent surface, so it is easier to clean. Dust and hair sits on the surface of the leather, so it's easier on people who have allergies or pets. Fabric furniture absorbs spills and stains, making it harder to clean. Pet hair tends to stick to fabric furniture, which may pose a problem to allergies. Leather tends to last longer for this reason.

Durability

Much stronger than man-made fabrics, leather will last. Not only will it last longer than fabric, its appearance generally improves with age. You don't need to retire a leather couch if you keep it in good condition. Fabric doesn't last as long, but you'll get more use out of it if you choose a thick, dark fabric that’s easy to clean.

Leather makes for a smooth, sophisticated look

Cost

Leather usually costs much more than fabric furniture, so some may avoid buying leather for this reason. On the other hand, many are attracted to the look and durability, knowing they'll get much longer use out of leather furniture than they would with a fabric option. Fabric generally costs less, although this is not always the case, depending on the quality and thickness of the fabric. By opting for a cheaper fabric sofa, you may save enough for a new coffee table or sideboard.

Factors to Consider

How long of a use do you want out of the furniture? If this is a temporary decoration fix and you don't want to invest a lot of money, you can get a quality piece of furniture without too much investment. If you plan to hand the furniture down the generations, however, leather is probably the way to go. Instead of looking ragged with age, it actually improves with age.

Also consider the climate of your home. If you live in air conditioning during most of the summer, leather is not a bad option. If you enjoy open windows to let in the summer air, fabric furniture may be more conducive to naps. It all depends on your purpose and taste considerations.

Must Have Items For Your Bedroom

2010-01-19T14:22:00.000Z

If the new decade has inspired you to jump feet first into modern life, then check out our run down of the bedroom essentials that will help you rest, relax and be entertained and inspired, and transform your bedroom into an up-to-the-minute sleeping space, perfectly in tune with the needs of modern life.

In a modern bedroom like this, practicality meets style

Alarm clock

Sadly, every good night's sleep must come to an end, but modern technology offers a host of ways to say hello to the new day. Digital radio alarms let you wake to the sound of any one of hundreds of stations, while more unusual options, such as the Flying Alarm Clock from firebox.com which flies around the room until you get up and catch it, let you take control of your sleep patterns in more creative ways. Check out The Independent's guide to the top ten alarm clocks, and prepare to be surpirised by some of the quirky selections.

The flying alarm clock makes
oversleeping all but impossible

Bedside Lamp

There's nothing more relaxing than settling down in your bed with a hot drink and a good book, so it's important to get the lighting right - not too bright, but not too dim. You'll also really want to have something stylish for your bedside table. You might think that bedside lamps couldn't change much, but there are a surprising range of far-out lighting options, including the Mathmos Airswitch, available from gadgethub.co.uk, that can be dimmed and brightened by the movement of a hand, letting you set the mood with the minimum of effort. For more ideas, you could also check out Living Etc's gallery of the best bedside lamps on the market.

iPod Dock

Whether it's to set a romantic atmosphere, to get you in the mood for a night out, or just to unwind after a long day, the bedroom is the perfect place for music, but you don't want to have a bulky stereo ruining the calming, relaxing atmosphere. That's why an iPod dock can help - choose a slimline designer dock that will continue the look of contemporary elegance, and you'll have your whole music collection at your fingertips. Make sure you pick an option with a remote so you can listen in bed without getting up. Some docks also function as alarm clocks, allowing you to combine two devices in one, but be careful - alarm clock iPod docks rarely have the same standard of sound quality as a dedicated dock, so you may want to stick with separate units for now. Check out The Times' list of the top ten iPod docks, and see which will fit into your room's style.

How To Turn Your Home Office French

2010-01-18T14:39:00.001Z

Home offices and studies can be neglected when it comes to style, leaving them drab and uninviting, and preventing you from using them to their full potential. The answer is to treat a home office or study exactly the same as you'd treat a living room, and to give it as much attention to design. This handy guide is intended to help you to use the classic elegance of French-influenced design and craftsmanship to create a welcoming and inspiring home office.

The best way to get the look of a chic Parisian apartment in your study or office is to start with a classic French colour for the walls and woodwork, and then pick a few carefully chosen pieces of furniture that will meet all your more practical needs while still allowing you to focus on a luxurious feeling of space and elegance.

This room has all the simplicity and
classic elegance of French design

The classic French look calls for a chalky white paint for both the walls and woodwork, although if this feels a little cold to you, you could try going for a celadon blue for the walls, matched to a deeper blue for window frames and skirting boards.

When it comes to picking furniture, think classic wooden pieces with elegant curves and expansive surfaces. White painted wooden furniture is especially effective, and can be complemented by dark-stained lacquered wood pieces. Try pairing a painted desk with a dark lacquered chair for a refreshing, eclectic look.

This miniature home office favours
Parisian simplicity over any hints of opulence

Accessorising a French-style office is a breeze - invest in some simple narrow black picture frames and frame either French film posters or black and white photographs. Choose a black and white patterned fabric for cushions, and, if you can afford to, replace your curtains with wooden shutters, and you'll really feel like an intellectual on the left bank of the Seine.

Ideal Home Magazine have a brilliant feature on French-style home offices, while styleroom.co.uk have a report on a simple, affordable approach to turning your whole house French, so if you love the idea, but are a bit short on inspiration, why not head over and check out their stunning images?

Things To look Out For When Choosing A Chest Of Drawers

2010-01-18T10:15:00.000Z

There is such a huge variety of chests of drawers available today that it can be
hard to decide what style is best for you. A well-chosen chest can really make an impact, helping to dictate the feel of a room as well as providing some useful storage. By selecting the right style of chest, you can really make a difference in any room.

The shape of the chest of drawers hasn't changed too drastically over the years. The chest began life in medieval Europe, in the homes of the nobility. Known at the time as a coffer, the chest was, at this time, little more than a wooden box with a hinged lid, often mounted on feet. Next, a drawer was added beneath the main compartment, then two, and finally the hinged top was phased out so that objects could be stored on top. If you'd like some more information on the story of wooden furniture, check out finewoodworking.com's brief history of the chest of drawers.

This chest is a twentieth century
reproduction of a sixteenth century piece

In the last few hundred years, there have been many distinct furnishing styles,
and most have featured interpretations of the classic chest of drawers. If you're going for an opulent traditional look with flowing textiles and dark, rich wood, then look for an antique-styled chest that has been stained and lacquered to give it the old-fashioned grandeur it needs. To maximise the sumptuous elegance of this style, look for chests with long, tapered legs and ornate drawer handles. You can also pair the chest with a matching dressing table, mirror and stool for that truly opulent feel.

Solid wooden chests combine
practicality and appealing looks

If you're after a more modern look, then try seeking out chunky, contemporary-styled chests. These often feature recessed handles instead of metal, and prioritise sleek, unbroken lines and expansive surfaces. This kind of chest looks best when given a matt wax finish.

This chest dates from the 1700s,
yet would fit in with a contemprary
minimalist look

Of course, there are many styles between the classic and the modern, and there is a nearly infinite variety of looks available, from chests that have been distressed to bring warmth to a shabby-chic modern home to quirky painted chests for kids' rooms. This is why it's important to have a good look around before you decide which chest to buy.

How To Find The Right Bookcase

2010-01-12T15:13:00.000Z

When choosing shelving for your home, it's important to consider what it will be called upon to hold. This may sound obvious, but over its lifetime, shelves often have to serve several uses, so it's worth making sure that you find a piece that is versatile enough to meet your needs. Take into account not just the size of your DVD, CD or book collection, but also how much it is likely to grow.

If you buy enough shelving to contain your collection at its current size, you may find that in a few years it is no longer enough, so it's worthwhile giving your collection room to grow rather than cramming it into a storage solution that is only just big enough.

This room really makes the
most of its bookshelves

To help your bookcase look its best, why not choose a matching sideboard or coffee table to compliment it?

The key feature for a versatile shelf is adjustability. Most shelves come with a rigid frame and are supplied with a simple method of adjusting the shelves yourself. This allows you to accommodate large format books or tall ornaments. Before you order a shelf, remember to make sure that it has at least one adjustable shelf.

If you are a real bookworm, and want to use your hobby as a great way to decorate your home, why not invest in enough wooden bookshelves to cover all the walls of a room? You can mount them directly onto the walls to create a relaxing, supremeley inspiring room.

If you are taken with the idea of using bookshelves as more than just storage, why not check out this great article from about.com's interior decorating guide? They have interviewed several designers for their ideas on how to make the most out of your bookshelves.

Top Tips For A Modern Dining Room

2010-01-12T13:43:00.000Z

A modern family dining room serves many purposes, from cosy family meals to kids doing their homework to dinner parties and more formal entertainments, so the design of the room is more important than ever. We take a look at some simple ideas to help you to create a room that is both efficient and stylish, and which meets all the needs of a modern family.

The key to the contemporary look lies in making sure that the room is clutter-free, so it's important to select some stylish storage so that all your family's belongings can be kept neatly packed away. If your room is small, try a slim sideboard, while if you have the luxury of space, you can bring a bit of personality to the room by arranging ornaments and accessories on bookshelves and display cabinets.

This room has been carefully designed
for practicality and style

One of the most important aspects of a modern dining room is its multifunctionality, so it's a good idea to consider the different uses to which your dining room may be put. Think extra storage for kids' homework stuff, or a 'family' tablecloth that you don't mind them drawing on.

If your dining room links two other rooms, and sees a lot of foot traffic, you could consider an extendable dining table, which can be placed against the wall for normal use and pulled out, extended and dressed for dinner parties sunday roasts. This look also maximises space, helping to keep contemporary furniture looking its best.

If you have a large home, with plenty of space in the garage, why not purchase some extra matching seating, and even an extra dining table so that you can cater for very large gatherings in style.

Remember, it can be easy for clutter to build up as various members of the family deposit their belongings on surfaces. In order to prevent this, consider investing in some extra storage for your hall, so that everybody has a drawer and nothing ends up being left in the dining room.

Once you've taken into account the practical aspects of your dining room, it's time to get down to the business of decorating. The classic contemporary look calls for white walls and window frames, although you can experiment with bold modern colours like olive green, cimarron red, or slate blue. One of the advantages of opting for a plain white look is the opportunity to choose several sets of ornaments and accessories, including curtains, tablecloths, napkins and vases to show off different looks.

Any lighting scheme in a dining room must help to set the scene. Try installing recessed halogen spotlights in the ceiling, angling several onto the table for a pool of light.

Recessed halogen spotlights can
really make a difference

If you're looking for further inspiration, why not check out Channel4.com's guide to contemporary dining rooms, which has some beautiful designs to get your imagination going.

How To Create A Contemporary Bathroom

2010-01-11T14:42:00.000Z

There's nothing like the serene, relaxed feeling of slipping into a deep bath in a beautifully designed bathroom. We've prepared this handy guide to help you to create a contemporary style bathroom that is alive with elegance and style.

It's a good idea to take the time to consider different arrangements in your new bathroom, so why not use a piece of chalk to mark out potential positions for your bathroom suite, and let your whole family contribute suggestions? By taking the time to consider your options, you can be more certain that you will pick the right one, and avoid having to redecorate in a few years' time.

This bathroom uses wooden panelling
to give its sleek lines a touch of warmth

Contemporary bathrooms have an emphasis on space and sleekness, so it's worth while spending some time working out exactly what you do and don't need. Many modern bathrooms do away with traditional cabinets, and if you decide to go this way, but later find that you need more storage, you can choose a wooden bedside cabinet or small chest of drawers for the room without compromising on style.

The key to a contemporary bathroom is the bath itself - modern manufacturing techniques allow far more interesting shapes to be created than the traditional bath design, and if you want to get inspired, simply check out the range of bathroom suites that are available online.

The innovative shape of this bath is
contrasted with the natural wood shelves

In order to make your room relaxing, and prevent it from looking too cold, it's worth contrasting the sleek white textures of your bath and sink units with natural wood, which both brings a touch of traditional character to the room and also allows you to be creative in your storage choices. Why not use a wooden blanket box to provide storage for towels and guest toiletries?

Channel4.com have a great page filled with ideas for a contemporary bathroom, so if you're still on the lookout for inspiration, why not check it out?

How to Use Ceilings to Enhance Your Furniture

2010-01-11T10:38:00.000Z

Despite being the single largest surface in almost any room, we seldom think of our ceilings, and often miss out on exciting ways to bring a new style to our homes. This handy guide offers hints and tips on making the most of your ceiling, with decorating tips and examples for you to draw on.

If your ceiling has sloping sections, these can be painted to match the walls, breaking up the line between wall and ceiling and giving your room a unique look. Alternatively, sloping sections can be painted in a contrasting tone for a bold expression of your style. For example, in a room with a royal blue wall and white ceiling a sloping section can be painted red, or if this is too much, slate grey. This is perfect for creating an environment to show off contemporary furniture, as the emphasis on lines and shapes will fit the clean aesthetic of modern furniture. Try installing recessed halogen spotlights to really nail that up-to-the-minute look.

The Sistine Chapel ceiling,
painted by Michaelangelo

If you're going for a traditional look, then why not consider a ceiling rose? Plaster roses (sometimes called ceiling medallions) can be bought from DIY superstores, although it's recommended that you have a professional do the installation. Once installed, you have a choice of paint options. The traditional choice is white, the same as the rest of the ceiling, but you can get a refined, relaxed-yet sophisticated look by painting it in a patina of bronze, copper or even gold. Ceiling roses really set off a traditional room, and you can create a great effect by accessorising traditional wooden sideboards, console tables and bookshelves with matching bronze, copper or gold ornaments.

The exposed beams in this room really
contribute to its relaxed style

If you are lucky enough to have exposed wooden beams in your ceiling, it's worth taking the time to make sure they look their best. You can go for the old-fashioned, Tudor-style option of painting them black or deep umbre, and pairing this with a white or cream ceiling. If you want a more modern look, strip your beams back and give them a coat of Danish oil for a light and airy feel. This look is perfect for setting off chunky oak furniture, and can really bring out the grain in pieces with large surfaces, such as coffee tables.