This Little Light of Mine

Lighting is of course an essential practical component of the home, however it can be a great way of giving a home a stamp of personality. Not only can interesting and stylish lighting set the tone for its surrounding space but it can be used to create a functional statement as well. There are so many choices when it comes to lighting, perhaps too many choices, and often people tend to stick to what know, avoiding designs that are out of their comfort zone, as we can’t guarantee that a new, unknown light will work in our space. But choosing a daring or just different piece of lighting can define a room, giving it a new sense of style, even if you’re not changing anything else. Here are some beautiful pendant designs to get you thinking.

A dining table is a great place to add some interesting lighting; a simple table and chairs can be transformed with a beautiful pendant. This Onn Pendant by Arturo Alvarez from Heal’s has the perfect subtle dramatic touch, the mesh material feels almost shimmery; two over a dining table would create a beautiful, elegant effect.

Onn Pendant by Arturo Alvarez at Heal’s

If you like a more industrial look, but don’t want to use the typical style of lighting, try this chevron rattan shade that’s been finished in a steel grey colour. It has a simple, rustic feel that’s perfect for an easy-going, relaxed interior.

Grey Chevron Rattan Shade from Cox & Cox

For a more traditional use of wicker, this pendant from Graham & Green would make the perfect central bedroom shade. The shade doesn’t feel too heavy because of the spacing between the weaving. Opt for a softer bulb to create a relaxing atmosphere in the evening.

Wicker Pendant Light from Graham & Green

There’s something rather intriguing about these lightbulb shaped wire pendants from Oka; they’ve got a playful edge but still feel quite elegant and not as clunky as you might suspect. They’re available in three different sizes, and would make really distinctive bedside lights, either by hanging a cluster of different sizes or just a singular one; ideal for a guest bedroom where you can show off some unexpected style.

Jordaan Hanging Lamp from Oka

The shape of this Grace Pendant from Heal’s is absolutely stunning; the shell-like curves are really delicate but confident. The curves have almost a retro effect, but the asymmetric shape gives the pendant a modern twist. This would look great in a bathroom, porch or a few over a kitchen island. They are shown here is a bronze glass stain but also come in a lovely smoky shade.

Grace Pendant Light from Heal’s

For a really contemporary design, Tom Dixon always has a few intriguing pieces. This pendant from the designer has a futuristic element to it; the shine on the chrome finish mixed together with the shape makes it feel like it’s just a floating form of liquid metal. It’s an unusual design but would add a spark of personality to a room. If you want a chic, modern looking living room a few of these pendants would make a lovely addition; or you could try contrasting the sharpness of the pendant against some softer materials like velvet.

Top Silver Pendant Light from Tom Dixon

These pendant lights designed by Lee Broom at The Conran Shop lie somewhere between contemporary and antique. Their shape and design feels unexpected and modern, but there is a classic Art Deco quality to the pendants as well that makes them feel unique.

Crescent Pendant Light Mini by Lee Broom from The Conran Shop

This pendant from Trouva has a lovely retro feel to it; it comes in black and white, but this copper finish is quite special. There is a sort of seventies charm to the light, but without it feeling over the top. It was make a great accompaniment hanging just above an armchair for a little reading corner.

Bell Pendant Light by The Forest & Co from Trouva

Finally, really give a bedroom or living room some flair with these Japanese style lanterns from Rockett St George. They look beautiful as a pair, giving a sweet personality to a room; a great additional touch to a light and airy bedroom.

Traditional Japanese Lantern Ceiling Lights from Rockett St George

Lighting is a great way to get creative in your home, adding in new ideas and styles as fun finishing touches and statement pieces; so why not head a little bit out of your comfort zone and see where it takes you.

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Garden Glamour

As summer approaches it’s time to start thinking about our gardens, and how to turn them into our alternative living and dining rooms for a few months. Some will already have a gorgeous garden, and some simply need to craft their accessories and furniture to suit their taste; but if you have a less then desirable garden, you’re in need of a few tricks to make your space feel magic. I by no means have green fingers, but here are a few ideas to get you thinking about outdoor accessories and furniture, to help create the perfect summer setting.

Festoon Lights from Graham & Green

Lighting, as with any room, is a key part of making your outdoor space liveable, sociable and atmospheric. These festoon lights are a great way to add some relaxed lighting to your garden, hang them on a wall or in a tree will create a charming setting for an alfresco dinner. If you’re looking for something with more of a contemporary feel, these wireless hanging lamps from Amara are an interesting find. The globes are bright little beacons; placed sporadically in a large tree or along a path down to the bottom of the garden would not only solve your lighting issues, but also make interesting feature.

Bolleke Wireless Lamp from Amara

A little lighting on the dining table, or around a seating area is lovely way of adding style to the space and making it feel more comfortable. For a classic look, these lanterns from Houseology are an elegant choice. A few assorted shapes and size will look good on a table as well the surrounding area.

Lene Bjerre Auria Lanterns from Houseology

For a different look, this Mullbacka lamp from Ikea is a modern twist on wicker, and would look great in a contemporary or urban setting.

Mullbacka Lamp from Ikea

Finding furniture that suits your taste for your outdoor area is just as important as finding it for the inside of your home. There’s a generic look of patio and garden furniture that we can probably all think of, but if this isn’t to your taste, there are so many of styles to choose from. If you love a quirky, contemporary look in your home, then bring it outside as well, in big and small ways. These ceramic stools are from Anthropologie’s first outdoor furniture collection; they’re a bright and playful way style your garden.

Soloman Ceramic Outdoor Side Table from Anthropologie

This Pemberley bench from Cox & Cox is a lovely alternative to your typical wooden bench; make it more comfortable with cushion and throws and it’ll make a great place to have your morning coffee or your evening glass of wine.

Pemberley Bench from Cox & Cox

Your classic little two seater table and chairs might be a sweet, little bistro set but if you’re after something different, this setup from Habitat may be just the thing. The shape and the matt black colour of the set will create a striking look; perfect for a small deck or patio area, or a hidden spot down in the depths of the garden where you get the afternoon sun.

Milton Black Two Seater from Habitat

If you have a little more room and a hankering for an alternative to a wooden table, take a look at this fibrestone, architectural table also from Habitat.

Tico Table from Habitat

Adding some plants to your outdoor area not only adds foliage but also some exciting colours and styles with the pots and planters they’re in. If you don’t have a lawn, pots give you more natural elements to your outdoor space; and if you’re a renter it means you can take your plants with you when you go without having to dig them back up again. These artistic pots from Anthropologie are simply beautiful and will steal the show of any display.

Glazed Abstract Pot from Anthropologie

These terracotta pot and stand from Nkuku have just an extra bit of style than the regular terracotta pot; the stand not only adds a new dynamic, but can also make a great way to house some hanging plants.

Jara Terracotta Planter with Stand from Nkuku

Whatever the improvements, big or small, updating your garden’s furniture, lighting and accessories will not only get your excited for summer, but will give you an extra space in your home that’s perfect for you.

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Bathroom Beautification

Just like any other room in the house, a bathroom needs a stamp of personality. With just the bare necessities, and even a lovely set of sanitary ware, pretty tiles and nice flooring, you’ll always needs a few extra things to make the room feel comfortable and lived-in. From practical items like hand towels, to fun accessories, there are all sorts of way to add your own personal touch a bathroom.

A quick update of your hand towels, bath mats or shower curtains can be an easy way to give your bathroom a fresh look and create a scheme that matches the aesthetic of the rest of the house. Patterned shower curtains can sometimes look a little garish, but this soft toned curtain from H&M Home has a relaxed, bohemian style that gives a bathroom an interesting look.

Patterned Shower Curtain from H&M Home

Adding some new textures to a bathroom really help to make the room feel less stark. A bare bathroom, especially one that is modern can feel a little clinical, so adding in textures can soften the room and give it a more diverse colour palette. These hand towels from Amara, have some metallic flair to give you bathroom a touch of fun glam.

Lark Hand Towels from Amara

A few candles in the room can not only help to add some ambiance, (there’s nothing worse than trying to have a relaxing bath in bright, glaring light), but they can also add style if you find the right ones. This candle wall sconce has a beautiful Moroccan style to it, and would look good as a pair framing a bath, or basin.

Medina Wall Sconce from Angel & Boho

If you have a large window sill, or a shelving area, a few pretty lanterns can make a really nice feature, as well as being a handy source of relaxing light. This lantern from India Jane has an aged iron frame, add it to a collection of mismatched lanterns for a romantic, bohemian look.

Bertucci Iron Lantern from India Jane

Sometimes little touches like keeping your liquid soap in a nice dispenser can make your bathroom feel clean and tidy as it means getting rid of all those mismatching and ugly branded bottles. This contemporary set from H&M Home is rather smart with the tinted glass and white label front.

Soap Dispenser from H&M Home

A mirror is not only a practical item in your bathroom but can be a decorative one too; finding a design that matches the look you’re going for will enhance the overall feel of the room. If the person who designed the layout of your bathroom rather stupidly put the basin in front of the window, you’ll need a standing mirror. I like this simple one from Maison du Monde with a thin, black frame.

Metal Table Mirror from Maison du Monde

Keep things like cotton balls in a stylish container like this one from Nkuku; it’s a great way to add instant style and personality to the room and to mundane household items.

Bequai Star Pot from Nkuku

The accessories don’t always have to accommodate items or have a practical use, just like in any room a few trinkets and treasures in your bathroom can really give it the finishing touch. A few glass vases that you can add plants and flowers to will help lift the room; if you get a lot of light go for fresh, but if not faux will do the job nicely. I like these jar vases from Pale and Interesting matched with these faux leaf branches from Angel & Boho.

Glass Jar Vases from Pale and Interesting

Leaf Branches from Angel & Boho

Or something like this zinc stand, with a colourful boutique in it, or you could use it as decorative storage, like storing soaps or bathroom paraphernalia.

Zinc Stand from Pale and Interesting

Artwork isn’t always something you might remember to include in your bathroom, but it’s actually a great place to hang it. You may want to go for something a little wilder than you might put elsewhere, as you don’t have to look at it call the time, or you might want to use your art as a way for your bathroom to stay in keeping with the rest of the house. This cactus print would make an interesting piece to have in your bathroom, or these little Hare blocks would look lovely on a window sill or shelving unit.

Limited Edition Botanical Art Print from Rose & Grey

Hare Standing Block from Cox & Cox

Bathrooms, just like any other house have a purpose but also need to feel like they have a personality and a uniqueness to them; adding in the perfect accessories to suit you, your taste and your bathroom means you will create a great space in your home.

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All Fired Up

Fireplaces can be a mistreated part of the home, especially in an old house that’s gone through its fair share of renovations. Gutted, over-embellished, given a heinous mantelpiece, or even boarded up, some fireplaces have been through it all. So if you have a slightly neglected fireplace, or are looking for some new ideas to spruce yours up, here are a few ways you can give yours a bit of life back.

If your fireplace is a little lacklustre, you can turn it into an attractive feature by updating the surround.  You may just have a simple mantelpiece that can be given a new lease of life with a lick of paint, which can completely change its look. I found this image on Pinterest of this traditional mantelpiece that’s been painted in Downpipe by Farrow & Ball; giving it a sophisticated and modern look. It’s an ideal solution if you’ve moved into a period property but want to keep the interiors contemporary.

Traditional Mantelpiece painted in Downpipe from Farrow & Ball from Emma Connolly via Pinterest

Another way you can update a fire surround, is by replacing dated tiles with a newer design. This image of a wooden mantelpiece juxtaposed with white tiles and dark grout creates an interesting look, allowing for a combination of old and new, soft and hard.

Wooden mantelpiece and contemporary tile from Apartment Therapy via Pinterest

For a similar look, I love this tile from Bert & May, the small hexagonal pattern in a light grey would look great next to a painted mantelpiece, in either a dark or bright colour.

Glazed Grey Daroca Tile from Bert & May

Traditional Fender around a stone fireplace by Acres Farm via Houzz

Having a fender around your fireplace has more than just a functional aspect, it can also look rather stylish and give the area a touch of glamour. The fender above made by Acres Farm has a traditional look, perfect for this large stone fireplace place.

If you’re going for an uber-glam and sophisticated looking in your living area, a pair of well-crafted dogs will look gorgeous, almost as gorgeous as a real dog lying in front of your fireplace showing his belly to the world.  These leaf style fire dogs from Chesneys are beautiful, working perfectly with the dark walls, modern art and crisp-marble mantelpiece.

Leaf Fire dogs from Chesneys from Dear Designers via Pinterest

Fire dogs can be a great way to introduce some avant-garde design to your fireplace, I love this abstract dog-like design from Jamb. They’ll keep your fireplace looking good even when it isn’t lit.

Large Linton Fire dogs from Jamb

Adding some extra fireplace accessories can give yours its own spark of personality, whether you want to add some contemporary coolness or a bit of extra glamour. A fire guard can really show off some character; it doesn’t have to be in the same style as the rest of the fireplace, if you have a period fireplace in your home, inserting something like this clear glass guard from Graham & Green can keep it feeling relevant.

Clear Glass Fireguard from Graham & Green

Keeping your logs safe and dry is a must for a successful fire, and what is a must for someone with a stylish home is that they are kept safe and dry in a fashionable manner. This steel open-basket style holder will look great next to a fire with the flames reflecting against the metal.

Burnished Steel Log Holder from Cox & Cox

If you’re style is more suited to the classic wicker log basket, this Holkham log basket from Grace and Glory has a simple but lovely design to it.

Holkham Log Baskets from Grace & Glory

A hearth is a great place to add some decoration to as well, if not you don’t need the roaring fire on, but still want the ambience, using candles can give the same effect whilst looking cosy and dramatic. I love this image of a collection of candles and trays, to equally protect the hearth and look fabulous, it gives the fireplace a playful edge.

Candles and Trays from Muus on Tumblr via Pinterest

Metal Tray from H&M home

H&M Home has a great selection of trays to choose from so you can experiment with difference looks without breaking the bank. And finally, I had to throw in this adorable fireside accessory from Graham & Green, these matches in a glass bottles are the perfect way to finish off your fireplace look.

Glass Jar Dark Green Matches from Graham & Green

Glass Jar with Dark Green Matches from Graham & Green

From big changes to little ones, there are loads of ways to get creative with your fireplace, you don’t just have to settle for what you’ve been given. It’s a great canvas to really show off your style with, and an interesting place to play around with colour, shape, style and decoration.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Storage Saviours

Kitchen storage is a problem that most homeowners face, no matter how much we may try to de-clutter, we generally always find ourselves needing more and more as the years go by. Whether you are installing a completely new kitchen or just looking for some extra space, finding innovative ways to add storage will help to tackle the problem, while also adding stylish detailing and some personality to the heart of the home.

‘Witham Oak Plate Rack’ from Rowen & Wren

Gorgeous plates were meant to be displayed, especially if there’s no more room left in the cupboard. This simple but beautiful rack from Rowen & Wren will let your crockery do all the talking.

Our dishwasher at home has recently broken, and so we’ve decided to take on the challenge of washing up everything by hand. However this means we need to pay a little more attention to the sink area, which is becoming a tad more cluttered with, mostly clean, dishes than usual. A quick solution that won’t take up too much room is this dish rack from Willow & Stone; it’s far more stylish that the generic pieces you see, whilst still holding the same amount of items.

‘Tilmo Dish Rack’ from Willow & Stone

Another way to keep your sink area tidy is with a handy, but adorable bucket to store your fairy liquid and scrubbers in. I like this little one from Willow & Stone, its sweet enough to almost make you forget that you actually have to wash up.

‘Wash up Bucket’ from Willow & Stone

Sometimes you might have the cupboard space but are in need of some extra compartments inside it. A few baskets to segregate your potatoes from your onions can make life a whole easier. If you like your traditional style baskets, these grey rattan designs from The Basket Company in different sizes will do the job nicely.

‘Rectangular Grey & Buff Rattan Deep Wicker Storage Units’ from The Basket Company

If you wanted something a touch more contemporary, these crates from Rowen & Wren are a great combination of modern and functional design.

‘Madly Wooden Storage Crate’ from Rowen & Wren

If you’ve run out of surface space, wall mounted items will be your new best friend. Just like the plate rack earlier, they are an absolute space saver, and can also become a lovely feature, even linking together a dining and kitchen area. This wall rack from Angel & Boho is great way to make a decorative feature out of your herbs, it comes with a few boxes but you can always add more as your collection grows, giving you an accessible and interesting way to grow and display them.

‘Wall Racks with Boxes’ from Angel & Boho

This wall unit from Cox & Cox is a contemporary alternative to wall cabinets. With a variety of spaces to store an array of items, this unit can house a small collection of everyday essentials. It’s a great idea if you live in a rental and can’t add more cabinets or change the layout, or if you have a very small amount of space to work with.

‘Industrial Style Iron Wall Unit’ from Cox & Cox

Storage is also about organisation, and making sure that everything has a rightful place. Jars and containers are a life-saver, especially if you have a few different types of food you need storing. LSA International do some amazing contemporary pieces that’ll add both a design element and a storage solution to your kitchen. The Lotta and Mia containers are my favourites in their collection, both simple and stylish.

‘Lotta Container’ from LSA International

 

‘Mia Container with Cork Lid’ from LSA Interational

Kitchen storage seems like a tiresome task, but with a little research there are a whole load of ways to add creativity and style to your kitchen; and with a strong lists of solutions to hand, you’ll never be unprepared again.

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The Great Outdoors

Summer is just around the corner, which means it’s time to start planning a beautiful garden for the season. From large pieces of furniture to the smaller details, creating a lovely outdoor area means you’re prepared for those rare sunny days and the warm evenings that follow. Whether you want to entertain a crowd or just make a cosy setup for yourself, there are plenty of ways to step up your outdoor game with some wonderful pieces.

‘Somerton Outdoor Dining Set’ from Cox & Cox

Add a little glamour to your alfresco dining by finding a suitable, but stylish table. This Somerton table and benches from Cox & Cox will give both contemporary and rustic elements to your outdoor area. The modern grey is a versatile colour and the long benches mean you can squeeze a few extra people around the table when you have guests over, making it a great table for spontaneous dinner parties. If you don’t need as much space, you can opt for something a little smaller like this Bistro table from Houseology, it’s more modern then your typical Bistro set, meaning you can adapt it to different types of settings.

‘Houseology Collection Grigio Bistro Set in Grey’ from Houseology

To stay out of the shade, and for the ultimate way to show off some style, a parasol is an outdoor must-have. If you’re looking for something really jaw-dropping, Sunbeam Jackie have a beautiful collection of ready-made parasols as well as doing bespoke versions if you really want to tailor it perfectly to your style. This Sunflowers in Blue piece is a gorgeous way to keep cool in the sun.

‘Sunflowers in Blue Parasol’ from Sunbeam Jackie

Another beautiful garden parasol comes from Rockett St George, this beaded piece will transform your back garden into an exotic paradise. It’s a great buy for making a style statement, adding fun and sophistication to your overall look.

‘Boho Beaded Cotton Garden Umbrella’ from Rockett St George

When the evenings get a little cold, gather round a gorgeous fire pit to keep yourself warm. This square aged brazier from Cox & Cox is a wonderful contemporary piece that’ll steal the show in your garden. The unusual shape and style will have people thinking you commissioned it yourself.

‘Square Rusty Brazier’ from Cox & Cox

To make sure you keep the light, a few garden accessories from The White Company are sure to do the trick. These crooks and lanterns will look amazing leading down a pathway or placed on the edge of a patio to give a party the perfect ambient lighting.

‘Metal Crooks and Torch Lanterns’ from The White Company

If you ever need a quick and inexpensive way to create a romantic and dreamy garden setting, fairy lights will never go amiss. This extra-long set from The White Company will allow you to cover your whole garden. Neatly decorate a bush or tree, or give some structural work a little make over like in the picture below; a rustic beam covered in fairy lights and a few branches turn something ordinary into a beautiful decorative charm.

‘Extra Long Fairy Lights’ from The White Company

Create the ideal hangout spot with this sweet crochet hammock from Graham and Green. It’s a great bohemian style and all you need to do is find some cushions to add into the mix and place your hammock in a hidden part of your garden, making it the perfect spot when you want to get away from the world.

‘Crochet Double Hammock’ from Graham & Green

If your garden is lacking a bit of space, you can always create the illusion of more with the use of mirrors; place on the garden wall where it’ll reflect the lawn or a collection of plants and it’ll make your space feel a little bigger. This mirror with some rustic shutters from Cox & Cox will add a bit of old, vintage charm to your garden, giving it its own character.

‘Outdoor Shutter Mirror’ from Cox & Cox

In order to keep your drink close by you on a hot day, you’ll need a few side tables to accompany your outdoor chairs. This bistro style table from Garden Trading is a charming little number that will go with most styles and a great way to finish off a seating area.

‘Rive Droite Bistro Tray Table in Charcoal’ from Garden Trading

For a touch of decorative flair on your outdoor side or coffee table, a few hurricane lanterns will really complete the look. These candle holders from West Elm are the perfect way to dress an outdoor table; the various heights and colours gives depth and range to the collection, making them both stylish and a great way to keep the garden feeling cosy late into the evening.

‘Pure Glass Hurricanes’ from West Elm

While there is always a slim chance that we might not get a sun-filled summer, you can still guarantee a beautiful one with some amazing pieces of outdoor furniture and some charming accessories.

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New Year Improvements

As we hurtled towards Christmas and the end of the year it became clearer to me that whatever minute amount of organisation I had seemed to be dwindling fast, so between Christmas and the New Year I made a pact with myself that I would really try to be more organised this year in all aspects of my life! There is no better way to begin a journey of organisation then with the proper tools and equipment to make it that much easier. From big items to smaller pieces, getting your furniture and accessories in tune with your new organised self is a sure-fire way to start heading in the right direction, so I’ve pulled together some fabulous options to help inspire the inner neat-freak and organiser in each and every one of you.

If you live in a busy household, trying to separate everyone’s things, post, keys etc. is always a nightmare, so finding something that will help everyone keep track of their own stuff means half the battle is already won. This set of drawers from Cox & Cox is a great way to separate the post in a large household, with six individual drawers, everyone has their own place for their important letters and unopened mail.

‘Wooden Set of Drawers’ from Cox & Cox

Equally, if you needed somewhere to keep things like gloves, hats and scarfs or larger items this sweet wall unit from Garden Trading could be a great buy. With six slots and five pegs it’ll make that morning rush all the more simple with everything in its rightful place.

‘Chedworth Wall Unit with Wooden Pegs in Charcoal’ from Garden Trading

When there’s not so many of you, you may not need something with as many slots and segments, but nonetheless having a designated shelf that will kept the clutter at bay, or at least off all the other surfaces, is a great way to create an organised routine when leaving and entering the house. If you want something a little alternative, these shelves with leather straps are particularly stylish, and perfect is there is just one or two of you in the home.

‘Wooden and Leather Shelves’ from Cox & Cox

Most people who work from home generally have a little space in their home already set up, but if you don’t or you feel like something just isn’t quite working, or if you don’t work from home but are in need to somewhere to properly plan and organize your life, finding the right furniture will really help to get you in that productive mind-set.  Having a desk that works perfectly in sync with both functional and style needs is almost a god-send, and this piece from Heal’s is quite a stunner! With an abundance of shelves and drawers to keep all necessary items in, it’ll provide a great foundation to keeping you organized throughout the year, and the dark walnut colour is a dreamy addition to any interior.

‘Navarra Desk with Top 3 Drawers in Walnut’ from Heal’s

Often a desk isn’t always just from working on your laptop or writing documents, especially when it’s located in your home, so if you find yourself needing a larger flat surface for a full range of activities, opting for a spacious desk with less frills may be right for you. I particularly like this piece from Ikea, it’s a simple way to create a clean and stress-free area in your home, while the legs give the whole look a little character.

‘Klimpen/ Nipen Table’ from Ikea

Maintaining a consistent level or organisation is best kept by staying ahead of things, and the more storage space you have the better, sure you might only need 4 drawers now, but sooner or later you’ll find yourself needing more and more, therefore finding pieces of furniture that can accommodate your present and future storage needs are a must! I love these antique style chest from Maisons du Monde, which have heaps of space and won’t spoil an existing design scheme by looking like they belong in an office.

‘Voyage Solid Wood Semainier Chest’ from Maisons du Monde

For something a little more contemporary, or if you want to add some organisation into a kid’s room, this multi-coloured chest is perfect for keeping a range of items in.

‘Dekale Wooden Vintage Semainier Chest’ from Maisons du Monde

Sometimes it doesn’t take much to be organised, I was constantly having a battle with the furniture in my bedroom about where exactly I could store my socks, and once I found a solution in the form of their own special storage box, everything felt as though it was going a lot smoother than before. Buying a few storage baskets or boxes are a great solution for sorting things that you didn’t even realise you needed to organise; that stack of magazines, a collection of clothes that always find themselves on the floor because there just isn’t space in your closet, or whatever it may be, a few decorative boxes and baskets around your home will not only look pretty but help clear up some of that mess you just can’t seem to banish. I love both of these options from Habitat.

 

‘Movell Woven Plastic Storage Baskets’ from Habitat

‘Idaho Bamboo Lidded Storage Trunks’ from Habitat

Whether you don’t have an airing cupboard in your home, or just have an overflowing one like my family, finding another space to accommodate your linens and separate them from the rest of your laundry and clothing is a great way to insight a bit of organisation in your home. I think this rustic style cabinet from Ikea is a fab solution for your linen storage.

‘Hurdal Linen Cabinet’ from Ikea

If you’re like me, there is never enough space in my closet to house the excessive collection of clothes I own, so finding an extra bit of storage that is still stylish is a good way to make sure that your storage solutions don’t feel too utilitarian. This wardrobe from Ikea is super stylish and won’t break the bank either, it’ll look great in a bedroom, or if you need some communal space to store coats etc. it’ll hold its own in a hallway as well.

‘Undredal Wardrobe’ from Ikea

There are plenty of fun and stylish ways to make sure that you have an organised home this year, and finding out what you need and what best works for you is the first step in creating the perfect, organised space.

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Christmas is Coming!

Whether you rejoice at the news that Christmas is just around the corner, or tremble with a little disbelief at how fast the year has gone, there’s no denying that the festive season is upon us, and what better way to embrace it with with some fab decorations. I tend to pull a bit of a face at the masses of tinsel you usually find adorning every possible surface at this times of year and other conventional styles of decorating you home, so this year I wanted to make it my mission to find some decorations that not only are full of festive glamour, but could also be worked into an interior all year round. Whatever your style there’s something for everyone that’ll turn your home into an ultra-glam setting 365 days of the year.

If you’re not into your traditional red and green Christmas colours, opting for a crisp all-white theme will really add some style to your home this year. A great way to make sure that your decorations are suitable for all year round use, is to find pieces that don’t follow a seasonal motif too closely. These paper stars from Rose & Grey are contemporary way to kit out your home. Hang them from a high ceiling to make a fairy-tale style feeling, and pair with these lovely lanterns from Rockett St George to really get into the spirit. Once the Christmas season is over, the paper lanterns are the perfect decorations to create a dreamy bohemian-style room, or to dress up a child’s bedroom.

‘Nine Point Paper Stars’ from Rose & Grey.

‘Set of Three Paper Lanterns’ from Rockett St George

This carved skull from Angel & Boho is perfect for all year round use. It’s a fun and interesting way to play around with the animal head trend, the carving detail is a sweet addition, and the bright white colour means that you’re free to add some individuality to yourself, even decorating it horns with some tinsel if you really wanted!

‘Tribal Carved Skull’ from Angel & Boho

For a little rustic charm, a few rattan stars from Holly’s House are sure to do the trick, they’ll look great on a shelf or mantel, surrounded by some fairy lights at any time of the year.

‘Set of Three Natural Rattan Deco Stars’ from Holly’s House

To give your home a touch of luxury this Christmas time, why not go for some decorations that are full to the brim with glamour and exotic style. If you’re less into shepherds and sheep and more into glitzy, romantic settings something like this lanterns from Angel & Boho are perfect. Surround a dining room table for an extra special Christmas meal, or dot around various surfaces for Christmas drinks, and then for a dramatic and romantic year just simply keep them there!

‘Tall Filigree Lantern’ from Angel & Boho

‘Venezia Oversized Gilded Lantern’ from Angel & Boho

The ideal companion for some striking lanterns, are some extravagant candlesticks. You can mix and match the lanterns and candlesticks around the room to create a beautiful, romantic setting, or fill a table up with a wonderful arrangement of candlesticks to set the tone. This set from Graham & Green come in all different sizes, which is a good idea if you don’t want your arrangement to look too stiff. Their antiqued glass style can work with various existing styles from bohemian to traditional to glamourous contemporary.

‘Mercury Antiqued Glass Candleholders’ from Graham & Green

Decoration doesn’t have to always be about adding extra drama to your interiors, it’s also a great way show off your fun side and add little hints of quirk and playfulness to a room without going overboard. This Llama from Graham & Green is just the ticket if you want to have a good laugh this Christmas (and everyday afterwards!), and is a good twist on a traditional reindeer. It’s perfect for hanging decorations off of and for being a wonderful decoration itself. It’ll make a great addition to your home if you enjoy not taking life too seriously, positioned over a fireplace or perhaps a bed.

‘Pom Pom Llama Mount’ from Graham and Green

These painted hearts from Re-Found Objects will make wonderful colourful decorations this festive season, and can go on to brighten up your home afterwards. For Christmas time, place them in a more concentrated area, decorating a dresser, or staircase. For the rest of the year, a collection of them would make a lovely touch scattered around a wall, it’ll add a youthful and fresh take to your home, plus they’d go rather nicely with the llama!

‘Hand Painted Hearts’ from Re-Found Objects

If you like fun festive decorations, and want to find a quirky alternative to tinsel, you might want to take a look at finding some pom poms! They are absolutely everywhere these days, so you’re bound to find some in a style to your liking. These red and orange poms from The Conran Shop are oh so cute, but they use contemporary colours, therefore avoiding an overly twee feeling.

‘Pom Pom Garland Festival’ from The Conran Shop

At Christmas time, you can get away with going a little overboard if you fancy, and if you like going all out over the holidays, chances are you probably like doing it all year round too. If you want to add a bit of nature to your interiors, you might not want to stop at just a Christmas tree. These indoor outdoor trees from Cox & Cox are adorable and add a theatrical element to a room without being too dark or mysterious. They can be used inside to get into the holiday spirit, and then when the New Year comes by, place them outside to really enchant your garden.

‘Indoor Outdoor Birch Trees’ from Cox & Cox

The same can be said for these lights from Cox & Cox, use them to decorate your interiors over Christmas and then afterwards they can be used to light up a garden, or transform an archway.

‘Indoor Outdoor Twinkle Light Garland’ from Cox & Cox

There are all sorts of way to create a wonderful winter land this Christmas, and even more ways to get creative and make magical interiors all year round!

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Cheap Thrills

A rather excruciating part of my job is that I am constantly surrounded by, or looking at beautiful home furnishings and accessories, that unfortunately I just cannot afford. Fortunately, the interior design world is also full of wonderful pieces and products that will only take a pinch out of your wallet, and here are ten gorgeous items all under £50.00 to get you inspired!

‘Metal Pillar Candle Holders’ from Cox & Cox (£9.50)

A quick way to decorate a table area or ledge is with a few decorative candle holders. They instantly add a touch of personality to a room, and will also add a sense of homeliness. You can either follow a theme with your candle holders, or integrate a whole range of styles, from bohemian to luxe to rustic. They will easily dress up a room, and because they are usually cheap you’ll be able to get your hands of a few pairs! I love these pillar style holders from Cox & Cox, they had a hint of rustic glamour to a setting, but if you really want to give a little pizazz to a table or mantelpiece, these leopards from Oka are sure to do the trick!

‘Pair of Lakadema Leopard Candle Holders’ from Oka (£44.00)

If you’ve bought a cheap, plain sofa there is an easy solution to make it feel fancy, and that’s cushions! There are masses of low cost cushions out there from plain, bright and patterned, but I always find that if you want to add a bit of luxury to a sofa a little texture and colour goes a long way. Sometimes you’ll luck out and the cushion pad will be included in the price, but if not you can usually get the pad for just a little extra, or if you take note of the sizing you’ll be able to find a cheaper counterpart online or in a large department store.

‘Mint Cushion’ from Touva (£25.00 with cushion pad)

This little minty cushion is so sweet and so stylish, and for just £25.00 including the pad it’s an absolute bargain! I love the tassels and the contrasting patterns on this Trivandrum cover from Oka, it’s a wonderful solution if your sofa is looking a little bare, and is in need of a revamp.

‘Trivandrum Cushion Cover’ from Oka (£25.00 with cushion pad)

A nice way to dress up your home is with a few flowers or plants, and for that you’ll need somewhere to put them. If you’re into your contemporary interiors, this half-moon planter may be right up your street. It’s full of character, and its copper tones will look perfect against a vibrant green plant.

‘Half Moon Plant Pot’ from Urban Outfitters (£14.00)

If you want something a bit simpler, that follows a more classic style, this glass cloche from Cox & Cox is so elegant, and just waiting for from wildflowers to be put in!

‘Glass Plant Cloche’ from Cox & Cox

When acquiring tableware, because you often need so much of it, it can be hard to find a gorgeous but inexpensive set. Instead, you might want to opt for getting some cheaper plain plates and dishes and then dressing up the table with some one-off extras. This striking jug from Trouva is amazing, and placed in the centre it’ll really stand out and make the whole table feel that extra bit special.

‘Faye Toogood Indigo Storm Jug’ from Touva (£29.95)

You can easily dress up your walls without spending too much money, a nice frame added to cheap print will really increase the overall quality, and some interesting wall lighting is a great way to add some character. I love this candle wall sconce from An Angel at my Table, the mirror panels offer an interesting design, and it’s perfect if you love a bit of bohemian style.

‘Refracting Mirrored Candle Sconce’ from Angel at my Table (£35.00)

Decorating your home with lovely but cheaper pieces don’t just have to be about knick-knacks, you can find some wonderful pieces for a small prices that can also serve a purpose. This suitcase self from Urban Outfitters is rather sweet, and is ideal for storing books and magazines in an attractive way. It’s quirky, retro flair makes it not only useful but stylish too.

‘Palm Pattern Suitcase Shelf’ from Urban Outfitters (£50.00)

When you need to add that finishing touch to a seating area, something like this little table from An Angel at my Table is a great way to insert some decorative magic.

‘Small Brocante Tray Table’ from An Angel at my Table (£45.00)

A smaller budget by no means equals scrimping on the finer things in life, or getting your hands on something that’ll really complete your home. After all, you may find that good things come with small price tags.

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