online Archives - Designbx Online interior design Mon, 30 Mar 2020 09:51:41 +0000 en-AU hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 https://designbx.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/cropped-Designbx-Logo-512px-1-32x32.png online Archives - Designbx 32 32 When Should I Engage An Interior Designer? https://designbx.com/blog/when-should-i-engage-an-interior-designer/ https://designbx.com/blog/when-should-i-engage-an-interior-designer/#respond Wed, 25 Mar 2020 18:53:28 +0000 https://designbx.com/?p=21567 One of the most common questions we get asked is at what stage should you engage the services of an Interior Designer – especially when you’re looking to build a new home or renovate.  It’s a great question and unless you’ve been through the process before, it can be hard to understand where each person’s…

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One of the most common questions we get asked is at what stage should you engage the services of an Interior Designer – especially when you’re looking to build a new home or renovate.  It’s a great question and unless you’ve been through the process before, it can be hard to understand where each person’s role begins, ends or crosses over – namely the Builder, Architect and Interior Designer.

When you’re starting the process, we get it can be daunting to see all the costs adding up.  But our experience has been on almost all projects where the designer has been engaged early, not only are the cost savings significant, but the client’s vision is brought to life without that sigh of frustration or disappointment that it’s “not quite what you wanted”.  So in short, our answer is engage an interior designer as soon as possible!  

If you’re using an Architect, you should engage the designer at the same time so that they can collaborate early in the piece, and make sure interiors specific aspects are not overlooked.  Every professional that works on your project wears a different hat and will be pushing a different agenda, but it’s important to remember whilst each has a very different skillset, the designer has your end vision in mind at all times. 

They have the ability, when engaged at the get go, to pepper your design style and lifestyle needs throughout your home design in a considered and creative way.  A designer will ask all the right questions upfront so they have a seal tight brief that will encompass all the knowledge they need to know to make the correct design decision that most importantly aligns to your budget guidelines. That’s not to say you are going to need to think about sofas, wall colours and cushions at the beginning – so don’t stress!!  It’s more around all parties being on the same page and having the same end vision, let the experts do what they do best and the whole design process becomes a free flowing and enjoyable one. 

Below we have broken the process down into 3 phases.  

Phase 1 – Pre-Construction/Planning Phase –  Review Proposed Architectural Drawings

Once preliminary Architectural Drawings are completed, your designer should review and provide recommendations.  Some of the key items are listed below. Reviewing these items early will save both time and money.

  • Overall spatial planning including review of storage options (wardrobes, laundry, built ins etc)
  • Doorways and access points
  • Kitchen and Bathroom function and layout
  • Ensure correct specifications for Windows and Doors.  i.e – fixed v sliding or stacking etc)
  • Review of specific furniture requirements from the client.  i.e – large dining areas or special room requirements. In some instances, structural plans might change to facilitate larger/smaller area requirements.

Floor Plan1. Drawing Review Example . Engage an interior designer at this point of the design process.

 

Phase 2 – Construction Phase –  Review Functional Requirements

This phase is based on the specific user needs.  Here we delve more into how many people are living in the home and family and functional requirements for each space.

  • Lighting Plan 
  • Colour Scheme 
  • Finishes and Specifications (i.e – tapware, flooring)
  • Window Treatments
  • Custom Joinery Requirements
  • Scaled floor plans with furniture placement and the flow consideration 
  •  

CUSTOMIZED IN-BUILT JOINERY SOLUTIONS  

Design Perspective

 

 

Custom Shelving_Entry

Design Perspective

 

Custom Joinery

 

Mirror Shelving

Fireplace Navy2. Open plan and oversized rooms often benefit from integrating built in cabinetry. It also adds value to your home.

Phase 3 – The Interior Design Phase – Finishing Touches

This phase encompasses the remaining key elements to bring the home to life and is largely focused around the Interior Design including furniture selection and layout.  Within this phase, your designer will present to you the following key components for each space, working within your budget

  • Style Boards 
  • Furniture and Product Selection
  • Floor Plans
  • Detailed perspective drawings (using product selections)
  • Personal Shopper Service with trade discounts
  • Installation and set-up can be included if required.
  • Project Management for interiors components can be included if required.
  •  

 INTERIOR DESIGN PHASE

Design Package3. A little peek of some elements included in your Designbx Design Folio; Style Board, Perspective drawings, Product Boards, Floor plan – everything you need  to create your personalised space – See some finished projects

 

Inspiration Board

Design Perspective Living Room

Lounge Perspective

Inspiration Board Tropical

Designbx have completed similar projects across Australia and Internationally.  We offer architectural drawing review packages that start from as little as $499.00.  If you have started your project or currently in the planning phase and it’s time to engage an interior designer – reach out to the Designbx team via for a chat – we would love to help you with your project. 

Would you like to know more about Designbx and who’s behind it, a more personal read about the Co founders Kerena & Kylie – Enjoy! 

 

 

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Lifting the lid on Designbx https://designbx.com/blog/lifting-the-lid-on-designbx/ https://designbx.com/blog/lifting-the-lid-on-designbx/#respond Wed, 07 Aug 2019 22:01:37 +0000 https://designbx.com/?p=15887   Home is where the heart is. It may be cliche, but nothing could be more accurate about the Designbx journey – the online interior design business founded by Kerena Berry and Kylie Pratt to give every Australian the chance to create a home they can be proud of.  It’s been three years since Designbx…

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Home is where the heart is. It may be cliche, but nothing could be more accurate about the Designbx journey – the online interior design business founded by Kerena Berry and Kylie Pratt to give every Australian the chance to create a home they can be proud of. 

It’s been three years since Designbx disrupted the interior design industry by introducing the concept of ‘e-decorating’. The business was founded on the wholehearted belief that everyone deserves a beautiful home that reflects their own unique sense of style. The women who founded Designbx could never have imagined – all those days, weeks and months ago – the impact such an offering would have on the lives of their clients. Or themselves for that matter.

“I found myself part of an industry that had the ability to have a real impact on peoples’ well being and sense of self, yet was still very much unattainable, expensive and intimidating to many. And unlike most industries, interior design had not yet found a way online. We didn’t anticipate how empowered and excited our clients would feel, and how the transformation of their homes would positively impact the rest of their lives and ours,” Kerena says.

Designbx was a collision of two booming trends – ecommerce and interior design. Long considered an indulgence of the affluent, interior design was not something accessible, nor affordable, for the average consumer. But spurred on by the Australian house-proud mentality; buoyed by the enormous popularity of home renovation shows; and fired up with the passion to merge everyday living with beautifully designed homes, Designbx was born. Early on, Kerena and Kylie knew they were onto something special.

  “I wanted to be part of something that changed the way people live their lives. From a business sense, Designbx just made sense. I knew so many people interested in design who were renovating, relocating or just wanting a nice place to call home. But they were also too time poor to engage a professional to meet with constantly at home or spend their weekends traipsing around furniture stores, or evenings trawling Pinterest for inspiration,” Kylie says.

Today both women get personal and reflect on the last three years of blood, sweat, tears and textiles on their journey to reimagine interior design for every Australian. And all the while they consider, where to next?

 

Having an idea is one thing, but bringing it to life is something else altogether. How did you get started?

Kerena: I recall feeling extremely overwhelmed at where to begin. Being first to market with a concept comes with many challenges, and trail-blazing is riddled with more lows than highs. Grasping how to learn quickly from your mistakes and keep the ball rolling is key. There is no room for pride when in start-up mode, and we were very much novices in many areas. But we believed wholeheartedly in what we were doing, and there was a real sense of purpose that we could make a change. I personally had to learn to ask for help, which is something I’ve never been good at. But I saw that people genuinely wanted to back us up and see us succeed.   

Kylie: There were a lot of days when I asked myself, “What are we doing?” Starting a business from just an idea is hard. Going in we were a little like a deer in the headlights; especially coming from corporate backgrounds where support,  systems and budget were readily available to manage the day-to-day practicalities of business, like

“Who will process these receipts?” “Who will update that data sheet?” “Who will make that sales call?” The answer to everything early on is, “Me”.  But looking back, that environment breeds a deep understanding and appreciation for every part of your business, what your customers really want, what they need and how to respond quickly when things shift. Being at the coal face is a good thing, but it’s also dirty work!

 

What has challenged you the most along the way?

Kerena: It’s a fine line between the wind and the weeds, and we’ve learnt that to be successful business owners we need to do both at times. Maintaining a wide view of the industry, trends and what’s on the horizon is key. But at the same time, we have to keep a finger on the customer pulse. That often means working closely with designers on each project to ensure we’re meeting the client brief, but also pushing boundaries and delivering truly creative solutions that are true to our name: Out of the box. We’ve learnt that having a team of people working on each project leads to better design outcomes and happier clients – which at the end of the day is what we’re all about. 

It has been a challenge educating the market on what ‘online interior design’ is, and at the same time breaking down the long-held belief that it’s expensive, intimidating and only accessible to the wealthy or incredibly stylish. Personally, achieving that nirvana of work/ life balance is still a work in progress. When you absolutely love what you do it’s very hard to switch off; but Designbx came with the long-term dream of having more time with my babies. So it’s an ongoing juggle and one I’m so lucky and grateful to have. 

 

Kylie: With a new-to-market concept there was a lot of guessing at the start. Despite both mine and Kerena’s backgrounds – knowing how the industry worked and how people generally want to engage in such services – bringing this reality to the online world was a challenge. Being online removes the human element of the offering, and this provided a steep learning curve, and resulted in us rethinking a few elements to reintroduce more of the human touch back into the business. The home is a personal and safe space – a haven – and it’s important for people to feel the humanity behind what we do so that we can deliver the best experience and results possible. 

We never lose sight of how lucky we are to have people invite us into their homes and allow us to help create incredible spaces that tell their story and truly merge their life with design. 

Much like Kerena, the work/life balance piece is still very challenging, but I have learnt a few key things along the way. That balance looks and feels completely different to every single person, so it was really important to figure out what that landscape looked like for me – and to commit to living it the best way possible. For me, that’s a career and business that gives me the opportunity to explore my passion for travel, people, culture and philanthropy, while working with my two fur-babies at my feet!

I’m also about to become a mum for the first time this year. So having a career I love and a business I’ve invested my heart and soul into, that also allows me to me to embrace and enjoy motherhood in a way the corporate world does not always allow, was a big part of the Designbx plan. 

 

Kerena, Amelia and Hugo 

What are your most memorable and proudest moments from the last three years?

Kerena: I’m so proud that we truly understand our clients and have created a platform that helps every Australian access world-class interior design. Attending the Telstra Business Awards as nominees was a real highlight – the businesses in the room that night warmed my heart to no end. I realised then, more than ever, that you truly need to be filled with passion and purpose to be successful, and we have that in droves. I love what I do every day and I truly believe we are making a positive change in people’s lives through design.

 

Kylie: Rarely do we just stop and reflect on our achievements. Leaving my full time career to run this business is a real highlight for me. For anyone who has left a secure paying job to start a new business will know it’s one of the scariest things you will ever do.  But, if you are passionate, you have the idea and the drive – and the ability to silence that little voice in your head! – you might just change your life. 

Reading what our customers say about us gives me a real buzz. I personally speak with every client at some stage throughout the process, and I adore hearing how Designbx has helped them overcome their challenges. Seeing them go through the full design process and loving the end result, and then seeing a beautiful review at the end, blows my mind every time. We genuinely love our clients so much and we’re so grateful they give us a glimpse into their homes and lives, and allow us to make a difference. 

 

Kerena & Kylie at the Telstra Business Awards

 

There are so many industry and economic factors that can affect a business – especially small business. How has the market evolved since you began and how you have responded to remain relevant?

Kerena: There are now a number of new outfits exploring online interior design, which is brilliant. More noise in the market is a huge gain for us. Educating the market on what and how to ‘do’ digital interior design continues to be a hurdle for us, so we love so-called ‘competitors’ and welcome them as they strengthen the conversation. There are millions of homes in need of design help, so the more the merrier. 

The Australian supplier chain has seen some lows over the last few years, with many companies doing it tough and closing up – some online, but predominantly bricks and mortar. This has taken some navigation and created some challenges. However, we are grateful to have extremely long-standing relationships with a number of core suppliers, and have the passion, contacts and zest behind us to be forever on the hunt for new and up and coming designers and companies to ensure we have everything at our fingertips to create the perfect designs for our clients. Business after all, is all about people and relationships. 

Customers have a lot of power now; they are educated on suppliers and price and have the ability to shop around.  Customers are incredibly savvy. But we don’t fear this, as through our relationships we’re able to drive competitive trade discounts with our suppliers, which we pass onto our clients. We pride ourselves on being competitive on price but stand by our 100 percent happiness guarantee.

If we’ve learned anything in our time in the industry it’s that a positive, fun, and trusted design experience superseeds saving every single time – that’s just a bonus!

Kylie: The market landscape has changed significantly since we launched, but we’re dedicated to keeping our finger on the pulse. As Kerena said, we view competition as positive – with any new idea, a collective effort to educate the market is important. We can all learn a lot from each other and have even reached out to a number of our competitors to discuss industry challenges. A positive change to the industry has been new freight and delivery startups giving Australians more delivery options at better prices. That’s certainly an area that’s needed a shake up for some time, so fingers crossed it continues to improve.

 

Designbx is such a unique concept. How do you ensure you continue to push the envelope and shape the industry as a whole?

Kerena: I feel we are continuing to create and refine a solution that people feel ‘at home’ with. It fits in with their life.  Being online means clients can view designs, collaborate with their designers and sign off products all through their devices – any time of day or night. Being able to design on the go keeps the process achievable, and ultimately enjoyable, as it doesn’t become just another job to get done. We’re creating a real-world way to design, and making sure we keep the love alive.

Our clientele are diverse – in age, style and living arrangements. And we see this as a truly unique attribute of our business. With spaces ever-evolving and the housing market morphing – more people are renting than ever before – we are incredibly conscious of creating designs that are flexible and transportable. I like to think we’re creating a fluid approach to interior design.

Now, more than ever, people need their homes to be their sanctuary – a safe and tranquil place that allows them to reflect and decompress. Life is busy and people are feeling the pinch and I don’t see that changing in the immediate future. We’re so proud and honoured to be able to help create these havens for our clients.

 

Kylie: We’re educating the market in a way neither of us predicted, or intended, at the start. Apart from the obvious stuff like trends and guidance on how to place a rug or hang artwork,

we are showing the industry that a home needs to wholely represent the people living in it – not the person who designed it. There’s no room for ego at Designbx: We design for the client, not ourselves.

We empower our clients with this belief the whole way through the process, and really encourage them to speak up – which can be a lot easier for them online versus face-to-face.

We have also found a big misunderstanding in the market around what an interior designer actually does, when to engage one and what value they can add to a project. For example, one of the custom services we offer is to review architectural plans at the start of a project. Architects and designers wear very different hats.  On several projects we have made suggestions to our clients to change the architectural layout of the plans prior to any building starting, to allow for function and the style they want to achieve with the interiors once they reach that phase. Engaging a designer early in the process can be hugely beneficial for clients, and ultimately end up saving them a lot of money.

 

In a small business it’s all hands on deck. So what do you love about your roles?

Kerena: I predominantly oversee the design arm of the business and support with the creative and marketing strategy and implementation. I’m what we call the ‘crayon department’! I love doing our shoots – whether its inhouse or at a client’s home – and I’ll be there with all my props buzzing around like a chook with its head cut off, squeezing as many shots into a session as possible. I just love getting ‘on the tools’, and it’s the most enjoyable part of my role. 

But most importantly it’s the working relationship I have with Kylie that cements that love for what we’re doing. We’re equally committed to being across everything Designbx, and yet we have total trust in each other – our individual roles, unique skills (and weaknesses!) – to get in and get it done. As in life, in business it’s healthy and helpful to share, ask for help and get a different point of view. For me, I love feeling supported when I throw out new ideas, knowing there is no judgement – just a safe space to explore new things. We both are equally invested and it’s our partnership that means we stay ahead of the game and get to feel absolutely fulfilled at the same time.

 

Kylie: I’m always heard and trusted by my business partner. As owners, we are both continually coming up with new hare-brained schemes; some of which are solid, and some that don’t bear repeating! But to have a safe environment to voice our ideas is absolutely imperative to a successful business and a harmonious working relationship. I know how lucky I am to have such a passionate, clever and talented partner who always drives me and the business towards success. Knowing you have someone that is always giving 200 percent makes it easy to do the same. 

 

Out of pure curiosity, take us through an average day for the Designbx team.

Kerena: An average day? Well, no two days are the same! And that’s one of the reasons I love it so much. Our project list is so varied; we always have a mixed basket of styles, house sizes and budgets on the books; and we are constantly positively challenged by our diverse projects, which keeps the creative juices flowing. My day generally starts around 6am – I sit with a cup of tea and clear the inbox and draw up my to do list for the day. It could then be briefing for a residential or commercial client, meeting with potential partners to explore collaborations, photo shoots, marketing strategy sessions, product designing and sourcing, website development and sneaky coffee breaks. Being online not only brings ease and comfort to our clients but allows the team to work on the go, respond swiftly to questions, design changes and general support. We can weave our work around personal commitments and know that we are still always there for our clients.  

 

Kylie: Every day is different, but the focus is always the same for me. Anything that is going to affect a client outcome or experience with Designbx is my number one priority and takes precedence over 99 percent of other things. Usually I’m up at 6am and do an hour of emails and planning for the day. If I need to do any writing this is the best time for me. Then I really love to go for a walk with one of my dogs Sophie in the morning – it gets the blood flowing and gets me amped for the day. Then I have breakfast and I’m straight into anything project and product related, talking to clients and suppliers, investigating business development opportunities and the operational side of the business. Mix that all in with some business finances and a daily catch up with Kerena and that’s pretty much the day. I must confess that I’m a serial offender for having 20 or more tabs open on my computer towards the end of the day, which can be quite counter-productive… but I’m deeply curious and I love absorbing knowledge from all the interesting business stories that come through my inbox during the day. 

Kylie and the family (one on the way!)

 

In the face of industry challenges and changes; incoming and up-and-coming competitors; a shifting real estate landscape; and balancing that ever-difficult collision of work and life, one thing is for certain… Designbx is no longer a start-up. The two women at the helm of this e-decorating offering are making waves in an industry that has long been plagued by a lack of access for ordinary people. And if it’s even possible, they remain more passionate and driven today than when the journey began three years ago. Fuelled by a vision and desire to give every Australian the means to create a home they can be proud of, and a space they want to come home to, Designbx is set for big things – watch this space.

 

“Great design is a brilliant collection of beautiful ideas”

– M. Cobanli

 

 

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The 5 best online interior design courses https://designbx.com/blog/5-best-online-interior-design-courses/ https://designbx.com/blog/5-best-online-interior-design-courses/#respond Mon, 21 May 2018 07:32:27 +0000 https://designbx.com/?p=8277 If you’re thinking about a career change or discovering a passion for interior design, there are a range of online interior design courses offered by credible learning environments, such as the Interior Design Institute. Taking up a short course or diploma at an interior design school, online or on campus, can significantly build a foundation…

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If you’re thinking about a career change or discovering a passion for interior design, there are a range of online interior design courses offered by credible learning environments, such as the Interior Design Institute. Taking up a short course or diploma at an interior design school, online or on campus, can significantly build a foundation of theoretical knowledge and creative design skills. Here are 5 of the best courses that you can take for education purposes or for fun:

1. Certificate In Interior Design (Interior Design Institute)

With options to advance your studies further, the Interior Design Institute takes you through a 24 week online course filled with creativity, design flair and style. Equipping you with the skills to style beautiful homes, the course focuses on both theoretical and practical skills to whip you into design shape. Based on almost two hundred 5/5 star reviews on their website, you can be assured that students were able to enjoy their experience and find their inner creativity through the modern and informative course. On completion you are given a Certificate in Interior Design which can help you kickstart your career in interior design, or as a hobby or successful sideliner.

wicker coffee table living space

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2. Diploma of Interior Design and Decoration at Interior Design Online (Sydney Design School)

Renowned for their high quality education, students at the Interior Design Online are taught industry-focused skills that they can learn both online or on campus. This design institute requires no previous design experience and teaches fundamentals such as the latest international design trends and styling for both residential and commercial spaces over a 2 year period. Accredited by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA), students are taught how to use 3D modelling software and even professional presentation techniques all from the comfort of their own home. Interior Design Online is by far one of the greatest options to be introduced and allows you to start anytime to grow your knowledge. You can enroll now!

oriental coffee table couch

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3. Diploma of Interior Design and Decoration with Open Colleges

Now considered Australia’s leader in online education, Open Colleges has provided high quality and revolutionary education for the past 100 years. Being recognised by the Design Institute of Australia, the professional membership body of designers and creatives, you can walk away with a diploma and an extensive portfolio to present to your prospective clients and employers upon graduation. The diploma spans over 2.5 years covers all areas of interior design and interior decoration. Equipping you with total confidence, knowledge and skill to immerse yourself into the industry, you’ll go through modules such as design principles, working with clients and suppliers, right through to practical skills using interior design kits.

interior design institute

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4. The Professional Interior Design Course at the Interior Design Academy

For those who seek more independence and flexibility with when they choose to study, the Interior Design Academy offers a self-paced learning approach spread over 12-24 weeks. Suitable for busy mums looking for a career change or students juggling full time work, you have the option to complete it within 2 years. With over 25 years of experience and specialising in distance learning, professional interior designers and writers have trained students in more than 80 countries. Whilst building your theoretical knowledge, they also provide you with practical skills such as meeting client’s needs, marketing and design skills that are often overlooked in many course outlines. On completion, you receive the Interior Design Academy Identification Pass stating your credentials and are placed on their register of interior design which opens up a world of connections and interior design opportunities.

 

minimalist white chair

5. Plan Decorative Live at The Decorating School (e-course)

This fabulous 6-week online course offers you valuable knowledge into how to design, how to decorate and analyse space. Through masterclasses from interior design experts, The Decorating School teach you how to use colour and the essentials when transforming a home or space. Providing you with a bite-size taster into the world of interior design, it offers those who are interested in taking up a tertiary education in the field or simply for homeowners who would like to try their own hand at redesigning her home. For those who enjoy a more fun and relaxed approach to full-time accredited learning, this course is ideal and connects you to like-minded students through exclusive Facebook and Pinterest groups.

modern living space

Feeling inspired yet? Why not take the plunge and learn a new skill and potential career changer! With no age restrictions and working around you, online interior design courses can be suited to almost everyone and can help you build and express newfound creative flair and passion. Make sure you research what interior design institute suits you best to ensure you get the most out of your studies and first and foremost, enjoy the course throughout!

 

tropical shop the look

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On the case – bookcases for your style and space https://designbx.com/blog/case-bookcases-every-style-space/ https://designbx.com/blog/case-bookcases-every-style-space/#respond Mon, 01 Aug 2016 10:43:38 +0000 https://designbx.com/blog/?p=1527   In addition to this article’s title, we could probably cram at least fifty more puns into the text, but that would distract us from the subject matter (possibly another pun), which happens to be one of our favourite interior design features: the humble bookcase. It’s incredible that an item which should, in theory, ruin…

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In addition to this article’s title, we could probably cram at least fifty more puns into the text, but that would distract us from the subject matter (possibly another pun), which happens to be one of our favourite interior design features: the humble bookcase.

It’s incredible that an item which should, in theory, ruin colour schemes and challenge most design styles, remains a powerful visual display. It’s even more impressive that in the e-book era, the bookcase continues to be a consistent inclusion in most homes. The reason for the bookcase’s stubborn refusal to die isn’t the significant amount of readers who simply prefer the feel of a printed publication in their hands; it’s the fact that a bookshelf adds to the look of a space while suggesting nostalgia, sentimentality, culture and personality.

In the Modern Eclectic home, a wall dominated by an extensive book collection perfectly suits the type of character we’d expect to find in the environment. In fact, printed words are such an integral part of their lifestyle that built-in cabinets are the most effective way of displaying all those soft and hardbacks. Built-ins not only add value to the property, but also frame architectural features. If you’re afraid of losing that Modern Eclectic sense of clean and open space, make sure you match the colour of your built-ins with the wall.

white bookshelf wall in living room

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If there’s a design style that can be communicated effectively by the addition of a bookcase, it’s Vintage. In fact, it’s probably compulsory to include at least one large bookcase. A lot of effort can go into expressing old world values and craftsmanship, but an impressive set of classics does the job effortlessly. Suddenly we achieve a sense of warm nostalgia as we’re reminded of old library shelves. You can also try floating shelves, which make your presentation of books feel more like artwork.

floating shelves bookcase wall

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floating shelves walls vintage home office

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Over the past few years we’ve seen books displayed in increasingly intelligent ways as homeowners use functional design to achieve compact living. Once driven by practicality, the art of using every possible square centimetre of space has become a feature. We’re seeing bookcases become walls and bed heads as homeowners utilise every nook. The warmth books add to the feel of a space is undeniable, so there are few examples of bookcases looking out of place.

bookcase wall in bedroom

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If your design is Industrial, choose materials for your cases that reflect your home’s style. You’ll want finishes that tap into the edgy, raw energy your space projects. Regardless of the barebones appeal of your interiors, harmony is still important. Consider layering furniture items, and place a sofa in front of the bookcase to add dimension.

industrial hanging bookcase

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As you can see from the example we’ve included, it’s definitely possible to find bookcases with a truly Luxe appeal, so if you’re aiming for elegance, don’t feel limited by your choice of cases. Take the time to find an ornate item that will add rather than detract from your design. Bold use of patterns and shapes should be consistent with your style, and colours must help the case feel integral.

luxe bookcase gold and blue

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If Vintage needs a few dusty tomes on display, Boho is the other style that demands the use of bookshelves. Everything about an impressive bookcase is consistent with Boho, which suggests an open and furtive mind; one that is certainly well read. In an open plan space, use your bookcase as a divider to create a little intimacy, and remember that unlike other interior design styles, you can be bold with colour, as long as you’re consistent. Finally, the Boho lover will garnish the shelves with keepsakes from travels and sentimental items, in line with the style’s disregard for convention.

boho living room with bookcase

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boho bookshelf in cluttered room

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There are many good reasons why we hate throwing books away. They’re significant parts of our past that link us to characters and atmospheres. They’re the items that have unlocked our imaginations since we were children. But don’t underestimate their beauty. Whether individual or part of well presented collection, the humble book’s aesthetic appeal is here to stay.


Designbx |  “On the case_ Bookshelves for your style and space” | designbx.com

 

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Becoming the favourite child: Mothers Day gifts that will win Mum’s heart https://designbx.com/blog/becoming-the-favourite-child-mothers-day-gifts-that-will-win-mums-heart/ https://designbx.com/blog/becoming-the-favourite-child-mothers-day-gifts-that-will-win-mums-heart/#respond Thu, 28 Apr 2016 04:18:51 +0000 https://designbx.com/blog/?p=1386     It’s the time of year when the woman who suffered agony to bring you into this world becomes a selfless martyr and begs you not to spoil her on Mothers Day. She doesn’t want you to fork out loads of cash or go to too much trouble. She’ll be happy with a card…

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It’s the time of year when the woman who suffered agony to bring you into this world becomes a selfless martyr and begs you not to spoil her on Mothers Day. She doesn’t want you to fork out loads of cash or go to too much trouble. She’ll be happy with a card and a call. We’ve been around long enough to see how this will play out, and let’s face it; unless she made you wear Crocs beyond the age of twelve or still tries to remove dirt from your face with tissues and saliva, she deserves the best!

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 When she begs us not to spend too much money, what she’s trying to say is she wants a Mothers Day Hamper from Bockers & Pony. You can safely put the violin away and get to the arduous task of choosing which hamper will pay for those hours of child labour. We all know it’s a debt that can’t be repaid but makeup, chocolates, luggage and Moet will definitely be a step in the right direction.

    mother's day gift pack moet gift pack

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Let’s not forget how many sleepless nights she spent while she was worried sick about you, especially during your troubling teenage years. Perhaps you’re still depriving the poor woman of winks. If so, at least let her burn the midnight oil in style. Masini & Chern have a beautiful range of robes and PJs that will make sure Mum is fashionably concerned.

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Flowers are always welcome but getting a single arrangement delivered is so five years ago. Besides, as the flowers wilt they become a reminder that you haven’t called her. Bloombox Co. offers nifty subscriptions that ensure your mother sees your relationship as loving, colourful and perennial.

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This is a particularly effective option for the problem child in the family. Amazingly, Designbx has gift vouchers that could buy your mum a complete online interior design solution for less than a subscription for flowers. She might express her personality by creating a bedroom boudoir, or next time you see her she could be wearing an exotic scarf and sipping Moroccan coffee in her Boho Chic living room. It’s probably the most fun present you’ll ever give her although you may find yourself sitting in her beautiful new kitchen wondering why you didn’t just buy a voucher for yourself. A Designbx voucher definitely wins the prize for the most unique Mothers Day gift.

modern four poster bed

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Do you have one of those modern mums who’s always on the go? You know the type: they know more about art, politics and technology than you. Don’t worry; you don’t have to slow her down by dropping a sedative in her Chardonnay while she’s focussed on her salad nicoise. A subscription to Collective Hub magazine via the MagShop may be a more ethical distraction, but of course there is the likelihood she’ll end up being even more knowledgeable.

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If you want mum to fawn over you, jewellery is a pretty safe option. In the mum world it wins status points. She’ll be at lunch with one of her mates and lean back so the necklace catches the sunlight, and then be forced to explain how you bought it for her as a Mothers Day gift. Her unfortunate friend, who only got a card due to overuse of tissues and saliva, will be green with envy. Dogeared has a great range of stunning and elegant necklaces hand-picked for mums. You can always think laterally thanks to Kikki-k’s happiness journal. It’s perfect for mums who like to keep track of events. It’s not just a blank journal. It features inspirational and organisational notes to help your mum live a more enriched life. Chances are, the first entry will be an account of receiving the journal from you as a gift. Great brownie points!

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happiness journal Mothers day gift

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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For a mother with class, there’s The Daily Edited’s selection of Mothers Day gift packs. Personally monogrammed purses, wallets and cases come in a range of subtle colours, and packs come with make-up, flowers or sweets. If you’re waging war against your siblings to win Mum’s favour, you’ll be hard to beat. We don’t want to know too much about Mum’s love life, but if she’s going to strut her stuff, she may as well make us proud (oh wow, that already sounds wrong). It’ll be tough for her to escape the keen eyes of all those foxes out there (silver or otherwise) when she’s wearing something tantalising from the Shoes of Prey collection.

 

Daily Edited Mothers Day gift packs

 

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Mothers Day bright high heels 

 

Regardless of which choice you make, get online to make sure you order early enough, and chase up the gift with a call or visit on Sunday.Forgetting Mothers Day can result in the silent treatment, detailed stories of pregnancy and childbirth, or becoming the runt of the litter. But above all, make an effort on her special day because you love her.

 

 

Mothers Day


Designbx  |  “Becoming the favourite child: Mothers Day gifts that will win mum’s heart”  | designbx.com

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