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18th December 2018 Getting Your Home Ready for Christmas Parties

Christmas is right around the corner, which means it is officially time to get excited about the upcoming festivities! Whether you are having the whole family round for Christmas Day or you want to be prepared for unplanned visitors, getting your house ready for guests is the first step in making sure the Christmas spirit is alive and well in your home. So here are our top tips for getting your home ready for the festivities.

Living room

The best place to start is the room where you will be doing most of the entertaining! Spend some time getting rid of clutter and cleaning in the nooks and crannies that sometimes get overlooked. Lay on extra blankets and cushions to make guests feel comfortable and warm and hang plenty of fairy lights to create a magical ambience. Have a few sturdy side tables ready for drinks and snacks and use footstools to double up as extra seating.

Kitchen

Parties always end up in the kitchen at some point or another, so plan ahead for this by creating a dedicated area for drinks so that guests can serve themselves without getting in the way of the cooking. Lay out plenty of snacks and have some music playing in the background to create the festive mood.

Guest room

Create a warm and welcoming space for your guests to relax in after the party has finished. Dress the bed with freshly laundered sheets, provide fluffy towels and keep the space free from clutter. Make some space for their belongings by clearing out a drawer or two as well as some space in the wardrobe (if there is one!). Provide extra blankets and pillows so that your guests can make themselves comfortable during the night.

Bathroom

Get your bathroom looking hotel fresh by giving it a deep clean, hiding all toiletries and cleaning products and ensuring that there are plenty of clean towels and toilet rolls. Place some new soaps next to the sink along with some scented candles to give it a luxurious aroma.

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11th December 2018 5 Ways to Keep Your House Warm in the Winter

With temperatures expected to get as low as 3°C in Somerset this week, it’s safe to say that winter has well and truly arrived! The arrival of frost and hail tends to mean that we turn to the central heating more to keep us warm, but did you know that there are a few simple ways that you can keep your house warm without resorting to increasing your heating bill?

1. Block draughts

Keep out cold air by making sure that all of the draughts in the house are blocked up. Make up some draught excluders to put underneath doors and fill in any gaps around doors and windows with self-adhesive rubber seals. Another good tip is to make your own draught excluder for the letterbox, as this is where a lot of cold air gets into the house.

2. Use tin foil

This might seem a bit odd at first, but it makes a lot of sense! Placing sheets of tin foil behind the radiators helps to reflect heat back into the room and prevents it being lost through the wall.

3. Pull the curtains

A lot of heat can be lost through windows, even if they are double glazed, so pull the curtains as soon as the sun goes down to trap as much heat inside as possible.

4. Drink up

There’s nothing cosier than snuggling on the sofa under piles of blankets while drinking your favourite hot drink. Stock up on plenty of herbal teas, hot chocolates and mulled wine to keep you warm from the inside out this winter.

5. Leave the oven door open

We tend to shut the oven after we’ve finished using it, but in the winter, try leaving the door open so that all of that lovely leftover heat warms the kitchen up. Make sure that any pets or children are supervised while this is open, though!

Browse our great selection of beautiful furniture online, or head down to our showrooms in Street and Weston-Super-Mare. Alternatively, give us a call on 01458 445555 (Street showrooms) or 01934 626326 (Weston showroom) to speak to our highly experienced, knowledgeable staff ready to help you with all your interior décor needs and requirements.

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28th November 2018 6 Reasons to Invest in an Electric Fireplace

As the colder weather and the long, dark evenings set in, homes around the country are snuggling up and preparing for a winter of hibernation. With fireplaces being one of the most coveted ways to keep warm in the colder months, we take a look at why electric fireplaces are the perfect way to bring warmth to your home this winter.

1. Efficiency
Both gas and wood burning fires lose a large amount of heat through the chimney which is not great for energy bills or efficiency. Not only that, but chimneys let in lots of cold air which leaves a room feeling cold and draughty. Electric fireplaces do not need ventilation, so there is no heat loss through a chimney and no cold air comes into the room.

2. Zero mess
Electric fireplaces can provide all of the beauty and aesthetic warmth of a real fire, without all of the associated mess that usually comes with them. Forget about sweeping the chimney, emptying the ash pan, and removing soot build up, simply kick back and enjoy the warmth of your remote-controlled fire.

3. Style
When it comes to choosing the perfect electric fireplace, there are plenty of beautiful styles to choose from. Whether you have a contemporary, traditional, or quirky finish in your room, there is an electric fireplace to suit every kind of décor.

4. Safety
One of the biggest advantages of an electric fireplace is the ability to turn it off when you are finished with it. This means that you reduce the risk of injuries and burns for children and pets when the fireplace is unsupervised. Many electric fireplaces also come with a timer setting so that you can fall asleep in front of it safe in the knowledge that it will turn itself off after a set period of time.

5. Installation
Electric fireplaces can be incredibly easy to install when compared to their wood and gas burning counterparts. If you go for a simple off the shelf design, it is simply a case of plugging your fire into the mains to start enjoying the benefits of it.

6. Money Saving
With an electric fireplace, there is no chimney cleaning, no service checks and no costly installation fees - just plug it in and enjoy!

Browse our great selection of beautiful electric fireplaces online, or head down to our showrooms in Street and Weston-Super-Mare. Alternatively, give us a call on 01458 445555 (Street showrooms) or 01934 626326 (Weston showroom) to speak to our highly experienced, knowledgeable staff ready to help you with all your interior décor needs and requirements.

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5th November 2018 6 Top Tips for a Super Clean Mattress

Image: Hypnos Concerto Bedstead Mattress

When it comes to cleaning the bedroom, the mattress can often get overlooked. But, as we sleep on them every night, mattresses can quickly become sponges for pollen, sweat, and oils, and sometimes even a bedbug or two can be found lurking in the creases. So, it is super important to keep your mattress as clean as possible to ensure that you can rest easily at night.

Please be advised that the tips below are a rough guide only. No mattress model is identical. It’s always best to check the manufacturer's care instructions that should be provided with the purchase of your mattress.

Before you get started on cleaning your mattress, it is a good idea to wash all of your sheets, pillows, and bedding on the hottest wash that they can take. This will kill any bacteria or bugs lurking in them which means you won’t undo all of your hard work when you make the bed later! Then it’s time to tackle the mattress.

1. Hoover
This is the part when the upholstery attachment on the hoover comes in handy. Start at one end and work in lines, methodically hoovering your way to the other side to make sure you have covered every inch of the surface.

2. Deodorise
Forget about investing in expensive products, simply sprinkle a layer of baking soda from your kitchen cupboard across the surface of the mattress. Gently work the powder into the surface using a small brush then leave for 15 minutes or more, depending on how musty the mattress is. The baking soda will absorb all of the smells, oils, and moisture from the mattress, leaving it smelling like new (almost)!

3. Hoover
Once the baking soda has been on the surface for long enough it’s time to hoover it all out again. Using the same technique as before, methodically work your way across the mattress to make sure that you pick up all of the powder.

4. Stain removal
Which stain removal technique you use will depend on which type of stain you have to get rid of. Remove spot stains with a dilute dish detergent, but do not apply too much liquid. For bigger stains, apply a small amount of hydrogen peroxide to the area and blot with a clean cloth. For any difficult to remove stains, try applying more baking soda after the detergent and leave for several hours.

5. Flip it
Repeat all the cleaning steps above with the underside of the mattress. Make sure you follow the manufacturer's guidelines for flipping the mattress, though as a general rule of thumb most mattresses need to be turned at least 4 times a year.

Air it
It’s a good idea to leave your mattress to get some air flowing through it to help remove any remaining moisture and banish any lingering odours. Once you have thoroughly cleaned both sides of the mattress, prop it up against the wall and leave the windows of the room open for as long as possible. Try to do this at least every couple of months.

Browse our great selection of comfortable mattresses online this season, or head down to our showrooms in Street and Weston-Super-Mare. Alternatively, give us a call on 01458 445555 (Street showrooms) or 01934 626326 (Weston showroom) to speak to our highly experienced, knowledgeable staff ready to help you with all your interior décor needs and requirements.

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23rd October 2018 The Best Electric Fireplaces for Your Home

Whether you are looking to bring additional warmth into your living space or you simply love the aesthetic appeal of cosy flickering flames, electric fireplaces are one of the safest and easiest ways to ramp up the ambience factor in your home. From new build properties to apartment complexes, there are plenty of homes without access to chimneys, which is why electric fireplaces are the perfect way to add the charm and character of a traditional hearth without the risk of an open flame. Especially if you have children or pets!

What you need to know

There are a few things worth considering when choosing an electric fireplace.

Room size
The size of the room will dictate the type of fireplace that you will need. Smaller rooms always benefit from a forced fan electric fire because they are able to heat a room quickly. They are also considered one of the safest home heating options as they use no combustion.

Operation
Remote controls are a great way to operate the fire, particularly for the elderly of those less able to reach the manual switches. Take care when choosing your fireplace that it has the ease of operation that your household requires.

Style
The style of the fireplace needs to be something that suits your home, but it’s also worth noting that it will have an impact on the amount of space in your home. Wall mounted fires are better for smaller spaces, while freestanding ones will be better placed in larger rooms.

Effects
A key factor in choosing your fireplace are the finished effects. Whether you prefer coal or logs, some fireplaces offer the option of both, and others the opportunity to control flame and smoke effects as well.

Traditional

The Dimplex Danville is a great example of a coal-effect fireplace with fully variable flame and smoke control. A beautiful and versatile inset that would look great in traditional or modern interiors, the remote-control option on this fireplace makes it the perfect addition to a cosy lounge.

For the traditional look of a fireplace, the Dimplex Alameda is the perfect way to add character without the cost of installing a real chimney. This large free-standing suite features a stone-effect surround and a removable, brick-effect panel. Available with a wireless remote control, this model allows you to change the flame and smoke intensity to convince the beadiest of eyes!

Another beautiful log-burner fireplace is the Dimplex Burgate which offers all the cosy appeal of a realistic wood burner housed in a super safe and authentic enamel-style finish. The opening doors add that final touch of cottage fireplace authenticity.

Modern

For a super contemporary take on the fireplace, you can’t go wrong with the Flamerite Luna. A fully wall-mounted electric fire suite with the addition of multi-colour mood lighting, the white pebbles and glass beads make this fire an artistic statement in any home.

While the Luna is an ultra-modern fire, the Flamerite Gotham is a great example of contemporary design with a traditional twist. The log effect on this fireplace along with the stacked logs underneath gives this modern fireplace a rustic feel.

Finally, the Elgin & Hall Edwin suite ticks all of the boxes of modern design while remaining classic and sophisticated. With a surround of pearlescent cashmere, the gently glowing LED log bed would look stunning in any room.

Browse our great selection of beautiful furniture online this season, or head down to our showrooms in Street and Weston-Super-Mare. Alternatively, give us a call on 01458 445555 (Street showrooms) or 01934 626326 (Weston showroom) to speak to our highly experienced, knowledgeable staff ready to help you with all your interior décor needs and requirements.

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17th September 2018 How to Bring Autumn Hygge into Your Home

Image: Flamerite Gotham 900 Suite

The crisp chill in the morning air and the leaves starting to gently fall from the trees can only mean that autumn is well and truly on its way. Now is a great time to take stock of the last few months and get your home prepared for the cosy season ahead.

One of the best things about autumn is the cosiness that comes with it, which the Danes are renowned for. Their version of cosy, or “hygge” (pronounced “hoo-gah”) is what it’s all about this season. Hygge means taking pleasure in the small, cosy moments such as reading a good book on a rainy day or spending time with your friends and family at the beach.

So, how do you translate this into the home?

Well, since hygge is a feeling then the first step is to bring in texture. Think fleecy throws and fluffy warm knits. Layers of texture will create a cosier atmosphere to relax in, so don’t hold back! Drape velvet curtains over blinds and bring in sheepskin rugs to ramp up the warmth factor.

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Lighting is another key factor in making a space feel more hygge. Trade in overhead lighting for strategically placed lamps. Add strings of fairy lights and groups of scented candles for a really relaxing atmosphere.

Since the colder months mean spending more time inside, bringing nature inside with you is another great way to make your space feel cosier. Arrange potted herbs and indoor plants to purify the air and make it feel more welcoming.

Smells are another way of making your home feel like autumn, so bake up some cinnamon cookies and roast some chestnuts to encourage a feeling of warmth and relaxation. Have a long soak in the tub with some of your favourite scented oils to help you unwind and prepare for the season ahead.

Browse our great selection of beautiful furniture online this season, or head down to our showrooms in Street and Weston-Super-Mare. Alternatively, give us a call on 01458 445555 (Street showrooms) or 01934 626326 (Weston showroom) to speak to our highly experienced, knowledgeable staff ready to help you with all your interior décor needs and requirements.

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13th August 2018 Creating the Perfect Home Office

(Image: Baker Reclaimed Office Collection in Stucco White/Sundried Ash finish)

The number of people working from home has risen to its highest level since records began, with nearly 20% of the population now choosing to work from the comfort of their own space. Whether you are one of the ‘stay-at-homers’ or if you simply use your home office to get your bills sorted, it’s important to make sure the space is as beautiful and functional as you can make it. Studies show that the space around you can have a huge impact on your productivity, so keeping your office stylish and well-designed will help to boost your efficiency and overall mood. Here are some things to keep in mind when creating your perfect space;

Colours

Choosing the right colours can directly affect the way you feel. According to Wright’s theory, blue stimulates the mind and creates focus, yellow inspires optimism and creativity while green creates a calming balance. Red is good for physical activities as it increases blood flow and heart rate. Whichever colour you choose, make sure to steer clear of beige, brown, purple and orange, as these colours tend to have a depressive effect on workers.

Location

Where is the best place for you to work from? Position yourself in a quiet room where you are unlikely to be disturbed and make sure you can see out of a window or door from your desk as natural light boosts mood and well-being. Corner desks are great for optimising small spaces in an elegant way.

Organisation

Having enough storage is the key to keeping yourself methodical and efficient. Pick up some pen holders and invest in some beautiful filing cabinets and bookcases to keep your paperwork and projects organised.

Chair

Working long hours means spending a huge amount of time sitting down. Investing in a stylish, high-quality office chair will help prevent aches and pains while increasing concentration and focus. Our Baker Reclaimed Office Rotating Office Chair is available in 3 stunning finishes and could be the perfect office chair for your home. Furthermore, it’s currently in our summer sale.

Lighting

Lighting can make all the difference, particularly if your desk is situated in a gloomy part of the house. Adding an elegant desk lamp will help alleviate eye strain and reduce the chance of headaches. Make sure to avoid any glare from windows behind you, as this can also cause a strain on your eyes.

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20th July 2018 7 of Our Most Stylish Armchairs

The humble armchair has come a very long way since its earliest incarnations of richness and splendour in ancient Egypt. Formerly used as a symbolic article of nobility and grandeur, the armchair has since developed into a comfortable, accessible piece of furniture which everyone can use. This week, we take a look at 7 of the most stylish armchairs which will bring comfort and elegance to your home.

1. Alstons Eden Chair

The Eden Armchair by Alstons is a timeless classic. Available in a superb selection of stunning chenille or tactile velvet fabrics, the model offers compact dimensions so by allowing a touch a elegance to be introduced into even the most demanding of spaces. The complete collection comprises 2 sizes of sofa, a choice of standard or wing chairs, together with a selection of coordinating footstools. The construction features reversible seat and back cushions. The seat cushions are constructed using durable cold-cure foam. The back cushions are filled with soft and comfortable fibre. Like all Alstons furniture, this superb armchair is made-to-order at a factory in Colchester by a team of highly skilled craftsmen and comes with a 10-year guarantee. The Eden is now on special offer in our Summer Sale.

2. Alstons Stockholm Chair

The Stockholm by Alstons features contemporary styling inspired by the Scandi look. Perfect for the modern home, the Stockholm is a brilliant combination of superb comfort and elegant design. The Stockholm comes in a wide variety of stunning fabrics, scatter cushions as well as a choice of leg and feet finishes, making it the perfect armchair to customise and make your own! The Stockholm is now on special offer in our Summer Sale.

3. Living Homes Kentucky Chair

The super-stylish Kentucky Armchair is the epitome of simplistic chic. The Kentucky is available in a vast array of fabrics and leathers, plus a choice of wenge or natural wooden feet. Furthermore, this fabulous armchair is available in either a fixed or power reclining option. The power reclining models feature a handy integrated USB connection. The Kentucky is now on special offer in our Summer Sale.

4. Parker Knoll Hampton Chair

The elegant Hampton armchair from Parker Knoll forms part of their popular Lifestyle Collection which features contemporary designs & fabrics. The Hampton is available as either fixed, manual or power reclining. Note that the image shows the reclining version of the chair. Established over 148 years ago, Parker Knoll are renowned for designing and developing Sofas and Chairs of the highest possible quality. All the Sofas and Chairs at Parker Knoll are handcrafted in Britain to an extremely high standard, with each piece characterised by its distinctive design and attention to detail. The Hampton is now on special offer in our Summer Sale.

5. Sherborne Keswick Standard Chair

One of our most popular ranges in both fabric and Leather, the Keswick features a beautifully-contoured shape and is designed for exceptional comfort with soft cushioning throughout. The Keswick is available in a comprehensive array of sizes and options, with manual and power reclining actions across the range. Complementing the traditional range of items is a selection of riser recliners which are available in 4 sizes and both single and dual motor versions. Note that all models in the Keswick Collection feature a sectional construction to aid delivery. With 88 years of British furniture manufacturing tradition behind them, Sherborne Upholstery are proud to be British and to employ approximately 240 people directly, with several hundred additional jobs also supported in their supplier companies. The Sherborne is now on special offer in our Summer Sale.

6. Tetrad Constable Wing Chair

The Constable from Tetrad combines luxurious velvet fabrics, beautiful leather and an eclectic mix of scatter cushions, to create a stunning statement. The Tetrad Constable is made to order especially for you in Lancashire by a talented team of British craftsmen and women. The Constable is definitely built to last, so give yourself time to decide on your perfect combination! The Constable is now on special offer in our Summer Sale.

7. Harris Tweed MacKenzie Armchair

A truly magnificent chair, the MacKenzie is a classic wing chair that is solid, supportive and comfortable. Finished with hand studding and piping detail, the MacKenzie is available in either leather or tweed fabric with leather piping and buttons. The MacKenzie is part of Tetrad's Harris Tweed collection. Combining Tetrads signature expert craftsmanship with the hard-wearing materials, the prestigious Harris Tweed collection exudes quality and style whilst also typifying just what makes Britain great – that wonderful sense of heritage, quality and tradition. The MacKenzie is now on special offer in our Summer Sale.

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9th July 2018 How to Protect Your Furniture from Sun Damage: (Product in image: Parker Knoll Boston 3 Seater Sofa)

As the heat wave continues, the nation is making the most of long summer days filled with sunshine. After all, the winter lasted for long enough, it’s definitely time for some warmer temperatures!

However, while we might be in need of catching a few rays, our furniture certainly isn’t. The sun can cause all kinds of damage to fabric, wood, and leather, so it is super important to take preventative measures to avoid it so that your furniture lasts as long as you want it to.

Wooden furniture can take quite a beating from the sun’s rays, usually ending up very discoloured. Purchasing furniture which has some form of protection e.g. lacquer or wax, will help minimise the impact, but even this will not prevent it. Covering surfaces such as dining tables with table clothes or other physical barriers will provide the best protection, if it is practical to do so.

Fabrics all react differently to sun damage, so it’s important to determine which type of fabric you are dealing with. Manmade fabrics such as acrylic, polyester and vinyl will withstand far more sun damage than natural materials such as cotton or silk. Damage will also depend on the colour of the fabric, so if you are looking for furniture for a sunny spot, make sure that it has lighter colours and is made from tougher material.

Leather does not stand up to sun damage at all, as it cracks and fades very quickly. The natural oils in the material evaporate in the sunshine, so if you have leather furniture make sure that you regularly use a quality leather conditioner on it.

Of course, where you place the furniture will also have a big impact on how much damage it will endure – keep away from direct sunlight as much as possible or use a window film designed to prevent UV rays from getting through. Rugs will also leave outlines on the floor if not moved around frequently.

Where possible, try to keep curtains or blinds pulled so that direct sunlight does not affect your furniture. You could also consider installing shutters that allow light in but prevent direct rays entering the room.

Remember that the effect of the sunlight itself is only one of the problems caused by the sun. In many instances, damage caused by excessive heat will potentially be more of an issue.

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8th June 2018 A Guide to Occasional Tables

While many rooms focus on a centrepiece dining table or a dramatic piece of wall art, it seems that the humble occasional table is often overlooked. But, rather than being a side-lined support act, lamp tables have a super important role to play in finishing the look of a room. Not only do they provide depth by way of strategically placed lighting, but they can also have a whole host of practical benefits as well.

Space

For homes that are tight on space, nests of tables offer the perfect way to bring additional tables into a room without compromising on space. Ideal for when you have guests! Product in image: Norton Nest of Tables

Storage

Lamp tables are also perfect for adding much-needed storage space. Ideal for hiding keys, books, or glasses, the drawers in lamp tables offer a great solution to any homes that are tight on storage. Product in image: Baker Nickel Lamp Table

Style

The great thing about lamp tables is that there is a lamp table to suit all styles! Whether your home has a shabby chic country look, or you prefer your furniture chic and modern, the right lamp table can be the ultimate finishing touch that pulls the whole room together. Product in image: Willis & Gambier Malvern Lamp Table

Lighting

Occasional Tables are a great way to add an additional layer of lighting to any room, from mood lighting to directional lighting, lamp tables offer a super versatile way of ramping up the wow factor in your home! Product in image: Sutcliffe Trafalgar Hall Table

For the perfect Occasional Table for your home, head on down to our showrooms in Street and Weston-super-Mare where our experienced, knowledgeable staff will provide you with support and the dedicated assistance to help you find the perfect items for every room in the house.

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