News
- 21st December 2020
5 Tips for the Perfect Christmas
-
Christmas is here! Whether you’re smugly sorted or frantically fretting, there isn’t much left to do now but enjoy the chaos of the festive season. But if you do need a few extra handy hints on making your Christmas extra special, look no further! We have come up with a list of ways that you can make the most of your holidays without the additional stress.
1. Put together a playlist
Permalink
Whether you’re having guests over or not, the perfect party playlist is absolutely essential for Christmas revelry! Take some time out to craft a playlist that will tick everyone’s boxes – sure, it’s probably going to be an eclectic mix and you might not love everything on there, but just imagine the joy on your family’s faces when their favourite songs come on!
2. Make it a team effort
Cooking the Christmas dinner is a lot of work, so divide up the roles to make it easier and stress-free. Have one person peel the vegetables, someone to make the desserts, someone to take care of the dishes, someone to set the dining table, and someone to handle the cooking. Easy!
3. Create some new traditions
Christmas is all about embracing traditions, so why not come up with a few of your own this year. Head to the sea for the Boxing Day swim you have thought about so many times before or spend Christmas Eve carolling or handing out gift boxes for people who are less fortunate.
4. Avoid the politics
Families are known for getting into beef over the Christmas period, so make it a rule that any previous issues are dealt with (or ignored!) prior to the big day. Alternatively, take the dog out for a walk if things start to get awkward!
5. Enjoy yourself!
There is so much lead up to Christmas that it can feel like huge stress, but actually, it’s a time for letting go and enjoying yourself. Remember to relax on the sofa and take some time to have fun.
Looking for new furniture for your home? Head on down to our showrooms in Street and Weston-Super-Mare or give us a call on 01458 445555 (Street showrooms) or 01934 626326 (Weston showroom) to speak to our highly experienced, knowledgeable staff who are ready to help you with all your interior décor needs and requirements.
Don't forget you can stay up to date with all our latest news and promotions by signing up to our Mailing List and following us on Facebook.
- 19th December 2020
Festive Table Ideas
-
From the twinkling lights and sparkly tinsel to the holly wreaths and shiny baubles, there’s no doubt that decorating for Christmas is a magical experience. So it makes sense to dress the table in much the same way that you dress your tree! Putting the dining table at the centre of the family celebrations is what makes Christmas so special, so here are a few ideas to bring a little sparkle to your feast this festive season.
Use nature
It is a long-standing tradition to bring evergreens into the house during the winter months, so make them the centrepiece of your display. Forage for holly, pine boughs, and red berries to create a beautifully natural (and free!) look that will complement the rest of your festive décor. You can also place bunches of festive flowers around the space and seasonal fruits to maximise the natural look.
Light candles
Whether you’re using an ornate candelabra or a few tealights floating in a bowl of water, candles bring a glittering warmth to a table that is undeniably inviting. Make sure you have plenty of spare candles to keep the atmosphere going well into the night.
Pick your shades
Use the colour palette of the season to create a beautiful space that guests want to soak up and stay in. Gold napkin holders, rich mulberry tablecloths, and green placemats are a great way to make a dining table feel festive and alluring.
Make crackers
Save the planet and your wallet by crafting your own crackers from cardboard rolls, fabric, and sweets. Place a sweet along with a handwritten cracker joke inside the roll, wrap fabric around it and tie the ends off with ribbon or twine.
Set up a drinks station
The dining table can get pretty laden with food, décor, and crockery, so it’s a good idea to use a side table or credenza to store the drinks so that guests can help themselves. Don’t forget to add some flowers and foliage to this space, too, so that it continues with your theme!
Looking for new furniture for your home? Head on down to our showrooms in Street and Weston-Super-Mare or give us a call on 01458 445555 (Street showrooms) or 01934 626326 (Weston showroom) to speak to our highly experienced, knowledgeable staff who are ready to help you with all your interior décor needs and requirements.
Permalink
Don't forget you can stay up to date with all our latest news and promotions by signing up to our Mailing List and following us on Facebook.
- 17th December 2020
5 Ways to Have a Homemade Christmas
-
If your wallet is already groaning at the thought of an expensive festive season, you’ll be pleased to know that you can create a truly magical Christmas without breaking the bank!
So, if you would like to avoid the hustle and bustle of the busy town centre and spend your time with the family instead, why not stay at home and make your decorations and gifts wherever possible. Save your pennies, hone your crafting skills and make some magical memories with a homemade Christmas.
1. Make your own cards
Permalink
Instead of buying shop-bought cards this year, challenge yourself to make your own using things you already have in the house. Broken decorations, cereal boxes, ripped wrapping paper – once you get crafting you will be amazed at the cards you can create!
2. Make your own wrapping paper
A lot of wrapping paper can’t be recycled, so instead of adding to the landfill, make your own wrapping paper with brown paper bags, paint, and some stamps made from potatoes.
3. Craft a reusable advent calendar
Everyone loves their morning chocolate during December, but advent calendars also add to the problem of excess waste so craft your own reusable one and pop your favourite sweets and chocolates into each day. If you’re making them for the children, you could even add some little toys and notes from Santa.
4. Get busy in the kitchen
One of the best gifts you can give someone is your time and energy, so why not put that into practice this year and craft presents for your loved ones. From super easy chocolate truffles and infused olive oils to flavoured spirits and festive hot chocolates, there are plenty of easy recipes that will bring a smile to the recipient’s face.
5. Forage a wreath
Shop bought wreaths can get quite expensive, so save your pennies and craft your own with a foraged willow base. Gather some evergreen boughs, holly sprigs, and pine branches and weave them into your willow base. Add dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and fir cones to complete your festive door décor!
Looking for new furniture for your home? Head on down to our showrooms in Street and Weston-Super-Mare or give us a call on 01458 445555 (Street showrooms) or 01934 626326 (Weston showroom) to speak to our highly experienced, knowledgeable staff who are ready to help you with all your interior décor needs and requirements.
Don't forget you can stay up to date with all our latest news and promotions by signing up to our Mailing List and following us on Facebook.
- 2nd December 2020
How to Create a Cosy Bedroom on a Budget
-
Image: Relyon Contemporary Radiance Comfort 1000
With the evenings drawing in, there’s no better time to start getting cosy in the bedroom. The bedroom is the one room in the house which should be dedicated to relaxation and comfort, so making it super cosy is a great way to ensure that you get the rest you need! But you don’t have to have a huge budget to achieve great results. Here are a few tips to create that cosy feeling in your bedroom without breaking the bank.Bed is king
First things first – the bed is the single most important piece of furniture in the whole room. A good quality base and supportive mattress can make the difference between a night of rest and a night of aches, so picking a good one is well worth the investment. Poor quality beds will need replacing more often so they can often be a false economy.
Add texture
Now you have the perfect bed, it’s time to make it look super inviting. A beautifully dressed bed is a great way to make a room look cosy and it doesn’t have to cost much at all. Add texture with layers of blankets, throws, cushions, and pillows in different patterns and colours to make the bed look comfortable and cosy.
Keep it minimal
When it comes to the rest of the furniture in your bedroom, it’s best to keep it minimal. A wardrobe, chest of drawers, and a bedside table or two are the only things you really need, anything extra may just make it feel overcrowded. Minimal, uncluttered spaces are perfect for creating a cosy vibe, so try not to overdo it when it comes to furnishing.
Mood lighting
Lighting is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to bring an element of cosiness to your space. Switch out the harsh overhead bulb with a softer one or add a dimmer switch to let you change the level of light it gives out. A couple of bedside lamps will add another level of lighting while stringing fairy lights around the mirror or the headboard is a great way to make the space look cosy.
Use aromatherapy
Our sense of smell is strongly linked with how relaxed we feel, so use aromatherapy to your advantage by burning some scented candles, adding bags of dried lavender to your bedside table, and ensuring that your linen smells super fresh and clean. It’s also a good idea to open a window once a day, even in the winter, to let the stagnant air out and fresh air in.
Looking for new furniture for your home? Head on down to our showrooms in Street and Weston-Super-Mare or give us a call on 01458 445555 (Street showrooms) or 01934 626326 (Weston showroom) to speak to our highly experienced, knowledgeable staff who are ready to help you with all your interior décor needs and requirements.
Permalink
Don't forget you can stay up to date with all our latest news and promotions by signing up to our Mailing List and following us on Facebook.
- 27th October 2020
5 Ways to Create Hygge in Your Home
-
Image: Dimplex Alameda Large freestanding electric fire suite
One of the biggest trends to hit our homes each autumn is hygge – a Danish concept and lifestyle that first emerged in the 18th century and has firmly embedded itself into their everyday culture.
Essentially, hygge means a serene, peaceful space that has a warm, inviting and cosy feel and is free of clutter. A hygge space is designed to promote feelings of calm and well-being, the ideas can be used all year round but are super effective in the colder months when we spend much more time inside.
So, how do you bring hygge into your home?
1. Neutral décor
Hygge spaces are usually designed around a neutral palette, such as creams, browns, pale greys, and blush tones all of which help to create a relaxing environment. Avoid bright, harsh colours or garish patterns as they can make a space feel busy and this reduces feelings of peace and harmony.
2. Textures
Warm textures such as knitted blankets, sheepskin rugs, and chenille cushions on the sofa are a great way to add interest to a minimalist design. Layering up textures along with natural materials like wood and stone creates a beautiful uncluttered finish that promotes a sense of serenity.
3. Declutter
Clutter is proven to induce feelings of stress and anxiety, so remove as much of it as possible when designing your space. If the object doesn’t serve a purpose or have a use, remove it from the space.
4. Lighting
Lighting plays a huge role in creating a warm and inviting space, so place candles strategically around the room and intersperse with twinkling fairy lights, floor lamps, and table lights with a soft bulb.
5. Fire
If you can’t have a real fire in your home, electric fireplaces are the perfect alternative. An electric fire can not only provide the actual heat, but it can also create a warmer atmosphere thanks to flickering flames, coal or log effect beds and the orange glow – sometimes you have to take the shortcut to get the desired result!
Looking for new furniture for your home? Head on down to our showrooms in Street and Weston-Super-Mare or give us a call on 01458 445555 (Street showrooms) or 01934 626326 (Weston showroom) to speak to our highly experienced, knowledgeable staff who are ready to help you with all your interior décor needs and requirements.Don't forget you can stay up to date with all our latest news and promotions by signing up to our Mailing List and following us on Facebook.
Permalink
- 15th October 2020
How to Get the Rustic Look in Your Home
-
Image: Baker Nickel Collection
One of the biggest trends in interior design so far this year has been the rustic look. Blending elements such as brick, wood and metals, creates a hardwearing finish that can take a battering but still looks super chic, which is why it is fast becoming the go-to style for many homeowners.So, how do you create this country-inspired look?
Rustic styles are all about rough edges, peeling paint, and brickwork, so a good place to start creating the base for your look are the walls. Exposing brick or stone work walls is a great way to inject some rustic charm into your space, so if you have any walls that are good candidates for this, think about investing some time and effort into exposing the underlying brick or stone. Always make sure that you get professional advice before carrying out any heavy-duty work to your home and ensure that any brick or stone work is sealed to protect them against moisture. Bare bricks and stones both work well with neutral palettes which allow them to really stand out.
Incorporate rustic metals such as copper into your home where possible. Copper is a warm toned metal that immediately adds a back-to-basics feel which is perfect for a rustic room. Using copper piping for shelving units, door handles, taps, and light fixtures is a great way to make the most of this versatile and beautiful material.
One of the most important elements of any rustic room is natural wood. Used on cupboards, floors, and walls, natural wood is a great foundation for the rest of the space. It can also be used to layer more rustic charm, particularly with dining tables, benches, and bookcases. Combine natural wood furniture and cupboards with dark walls for a super trendy finish, or layer up pieces of wood furniture with softer elements such as cushions and blankets.
One thing that’s worth remembering with the rustic look is that the more unfinished something is, the better. Unpainted plaster walls, scuffed wooden floors and exposed pipework, all work together to create a beautifully undone look that can be easily dressed up with the right sofas, chairs, dressers, and soft furnishings.
Happy decorating!
Looking for new furniture for your home? Head on down to our showrooms in Street and Weston-Super-Mare or give us a call on 01458 445555 (Street showrooms) or 01934 626326 (Weston showroom) to speak to our highly experienced, knowledgeable staff who are ready to help you with all your interior décor needs and requirements.
Don't forget you can stay up to date with all our latest news and promotions by signing up to our Mailing List and following us on Facebook.
Permalink
- 22nd September 2020
Preparing Your Home for Autumn
-
Image: Alstons Reuben
Summer is quickly fading into darker mornings, cooler evenings, with wet weather on its way! Now is a great time to get your home in order and ready for the coming autumn and winter months. Here are a few things worth doing to make sure that your home stays cosy and warm when the cold weather really kicks in.Have your boiler serviced
There’s nothing worse than being without hot water and central heating when the temperatures have dropped to freezing cold. Stay ahead of the game by making sure your boiler is serviced and ready to face the upcoming months.
Sweep the chimney
Regular chimney maintenance is essential to guard against chimney fires and to ensure that everything is in good working order. Have a chimney sweep check out your chimney, or if you don’t have one, have a specialist service any gas or electric fires to ensure that they are in good working order.
Check the roof
It’s not often we think about the roof until it’s too late, so nip any potential issues in the bud by checking for any buckled or cracked shingles and check for any holes or missing tiles. Speak to a qualified roofer about getting repairs done so that it is ready to stand up against any strong winter storms.
Replace your sofa
The chances are that you’ll be spending many a cosy evening wrapped up warm on your sofa, so if yours is looking a little tired or worn, now is a great time to look into replacing it. We have a great range of sofas and armchairs available in our showrooms and online, get in touch today to see how we can help you to have the cosiest lounge this winter!
Wash the curtains
While there is still time to dry them outside on the line, give your curtains a good wash to prepare them for all that use they will be getting in the winter months!
Pack away the garden
With the colder weather setting in the garden is likely to start seeing less use, so take the time to mow the lawn, pack away garden furniture, barbecues, and paddling pools, and clear out vegetable patches and borders.
Looking for new furniture for your home? Head on down to our showrooms in Street and Weston-Super-Mare or give us a call on 01458 445555 (Street showrooms) or 01934 626326 (Weston showroom) to speak to our highly experienced, knowledgeable staff who are ready to help you with all your interior décor needs and requirements.
Permalink
Don't forget you can stay up to date with all our latest news and promotions by signing up to our Mailing List and following us on Facebook.
- 23rd July 2020
How to Create a Peaceful Bedroom
-
Image: Portbury Bedroom collection - available in a choice of finishes.
It is estimated that we spend a third of our lives sleeping – which is a lot of time to spend in the bedroom! Creating a peaceful, bedroom environment is one of the best ways to promote good quality sleep, which is essential for helping us to feel calm, relaxed, and happy.
So, what are the best ways to promote a relaxing environment in your bedroom?
1. Declutter
Permalink
Cluttered spaces tend to make our minds feel cluttered, which is not the best start when you’re trying to get to sleep. Take a look around your space and remove anything that isn’t necessary for creating a peaceful environment. The clearer the space, the more relaxed you will feel in it.
2. Use neutral colours
Pillar-box red or aquamarine blue might well be your favourite colours, but bold colour schemes can make a space feel dark and claustrophobic. Stick to neutral, non-jarring colours such as whites, beiges, creams, pastels, and natural tones to create a light and airy space that feels clean and comfortable.
3. Incorporate natural materials
One way of fostering a sense of peace and calm is to include elements of the natural world wherever possible. Wooden bed frames, knitted throws, sheepskin rugs, and plants are a great way to make space feel grounded and calming. Always check the compatibility of plants before you place them into the bedroom, as some are not suitable.
4. Use a sunrise clock
Waking up with the sun is easy in the spring and summer months, but in the autumn and winter, it can become very difficult to get out of bed. Use a sunrise alarm clock to help your body adjust to the start of each day naturally.
5. Throw the windows open
Let out any stagnant air that accumulated through the night by throwing open the windows every morning. It doesn’t have to be for very long, especially in the winter, but a few minutes is enough to replace the air and make it feel like a new space.
If you're looking for a new bed or bedroom furniture for your home, head on down to our showrooms in Street and Weston-Super-Mare or give us a call on 01458 445555 (Street showrooms) or 01934 626326 (Weston showroom) to speak to our highly experienced, knowledgeable staff who are ready to help you with all your interior décor needs and requirements. Can't make it to the store? Shop online at your leisure.
Don't forget you can stay up to date with all our latest news and promotions by signing up to our Mailing List and following us on Facebook.
- 10th July 2020
Tips for Bringing Summer Indoors
-
Long, sunny days and balmy, relaxed evenings mean that summer is well and truly underway! Whether you’re spending your days lounging in the garden or sipping ice-cold drinks in the shade, it’s safe to say that summer tends to bring out the best in us. So, why not bring some of that positive magic inside the home as well? If your home feels a little blue after spending all that time in the sun, then perhaps it’s time to turn up the summer vibes inside so you can enjoy this season a little longer.
Go bold
Summer is a time for expression, so think bold, bright, sunny colours for your interiors. Use warm, sunny yellows or tranquil, watery Aquas as accent colours in your living spaces. Let nature inspire you for mixing and matching different shades, such as trendy corals and jades or apple greens and lavenders. Think sunshine meadows, colourful hedgerows, and glistening beaches.
Embrace florals
Many people avoid florals for fear of creating a dated space, but there are plenty of fresh, contemporary floral patterns out there which can turn the heat up in your home while keeping it looking modern. Add a floral pattern to a couple of throw pillows or switch up the curtains for a new, effortless finish.
Go green
One of the fastest ways to liven up any space and evoke the feeling of summer is by bringing in plenty of plant life. Even if you’re terrible at keeping plants, there are plenty out there that can give you that green look without requiring too much maintenance. Look for cactuses, succulents, or spider plants to bring some zing into your living space.
Lighten up
Heavy drapes and luxurious textiles might be great for winter, but when it comes to the summer, they can feel a little dark and dreary. Cover a sofa with a light throw, pack away heavy rugs and switch up your bedding to incorporate more cottons.
Looking for a new set of summery furniture for your home? Head on down to our showrooms in Street and Weston-Super-Mare or give us a call on 01458 445555 (Street showrooms) or 01934 626326 (Weston showroom) to speak to our highly experienced, knowledgeable staff who are ready to help you with all your interior décor needs and requirements.
Permalink
Don't forget you can stay up to date with all our latest news and promotions by signing up to our Mailing List and following us on Facebook.
- 23rd January 2020
5 Sleep Tips for 2020
-
Image: Harrison Lima 7200
If you are starting off the new year with a fresh perspective and some positive intentions, then you’re not alone! Thousands of people use the start of the new year as a time to make some changes in their lives. But there is one change that you can make today that will help you to achieve all of your goals for this year.
More sleep!
It is estimated that nearly a third of us do not get enough sleep, but it is vital for us to function properly. Without proper rest, it can be much harder to achieve goals that we have set ourselves. So, here’s how you can make 2020 the year that you get enough sleep.
1. Stick to a schedule
Permalink
Make sure that you wake up and go to bed at the same time every day as this will set your natural circadian rhythm. Try to stick to this even at the weekend so that your body always knows when it’s time to wake up and go to sleep.
2. Have a morning routine
We all know how hard it can be to get out of bed in the morning, so make it a little bit easier by having plenty of things to look forward to. Drink a glass of water, have something tasty for breakfast and take a hot shower to prepare yourself for the day.
3. Meditate
If you have trouble nodding off in the evening, then meditation is a great way to relax and unwind the mind before you go to bed. Listen to a soundscape or guided meditation to help you drift off.
4. Avoid stimulants
Caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol can all stimulate the body so it’s a good idea to avoid all of these things for at least 4 hours before you go to bed.
5. Address your sleep surface
If you’ve been waking up feeling achy or stiff, then perhaps it’s time to replace your mattress. Studies have shown that it is best to replace your mattress every 5-8 years, depending on wear and tear. If your mattress is sagging in the middle, is uncomfortable or has springs poking out of it, then it’s time to seek out a new sleep surface.
Looking for a new bed? Head on down to our showrooms in Street and Weston-Super-Mare or give us a call on 01458 445555 (Street showrooms) or 01934 626326 (Weston showroom) to speak to our highly experienced, knowledgeable staff who are ready to help you with all your interior décor needs and requirements.
Don't forget you can stay up to date with all our latest news and promotions by signing up to our Mailing List and following us on Facebook.