Despite how minor it seems, rug placement does accentuate a room when it’s the right size and placement in accordance with furniture. It has the ability to make a room feel spacious, and inviting no matter the occasion or type of room.

An aesthetically pleasing space aids in achieving a flowing design. Here are some tips and images to aid in your own rug placement.

Image Source: Home Beautiful

Living Room

In a living area, size matters with rugs; it can overcrowd a room or even make it too spacious depending on your furniture.

A rug has to be large enough to cover all ground with couches sitting fully on it, or partially, as displayed above. In the case of smaller rugs, seating needs to be at an even distance. That principle also applies to circular rugs, as displayed below.

Image Source: Home Designing

Dining Room

Rugs under dining tables are best around 60cm to 70cm wider in dimensions and in proportion to the table and chairs as it enhances the shape, similar to round rugs under round tables.

Image Source: Domino

Master Bedrooms

Smaller rugs in bedrooms create a better effect than large ones. They can be placed on either side of the bed or just one side, adding the feel of luxury by using a large rug that is visible under a bed however leaving space for bedside tables on the floor to enhance the space and accentuate the floor to wall. 

Single Bedrooms

Rugs can add a spark and some colour to any children’s room, and also a soft play area for children. These rugs can be placed slightly under beds, inbetween beds in shared bedrooms to create a ‘connection’ and a central play area. For nuseries, small round rugs under or next to a crib creates a feel of intimacy with the child. 

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Designbx | Rug Placement Guide | www.designbx.com

The post Rug placement guide appeared first on Designbx.

1. Don’t be shy with furniture

Most people’s bedrooms only include the bare necessities such as a tallboy and bedside tables. Try going for a luxe vibe by adding a storage ottoman or buffet-style drawer unit. Adding extra storage solutions that steer away from tacky wardrobe organisers will provide space for more clothes and an extra place to put luxuries like a TV. Armchairs add an air of comfort while doubling up as a nursing chair or a place to put loose clothing items.

We all have one of ‘those chairs’!

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2. Storage is everything in closet design

Update your wardrobe status by moving around shelving and opening the space. Replace old doors and even shelving- with affordable materials like laminex available, you won’t blow the budget. Tactical and organised storage allows you to access things you may have forgotten about and creates airflow in closet designs. Try putting your shoes out on display. It allows you to perfectly find a match for your outfit, and gives the illusion you’re the next Imelda Marcos! Opt for small shelving units or a shoe rack for a show-stopping look worthy of celebrity status.

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3. Mirror mirror on the wall

No space to expand? Try installing a floor length mirror to create the illusion of a larger closet. Even in a humble suburban home you can feel as if your closet design is fit for a mansion. Ensure mirrors are exposed to good lighting, as it will open up the room completely and allow you to check yourself out thoroughly!

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4. Let there be light

Fighting with a small space or a dark corner? Open it up with some discreet lighting for a more welcoming feel. Under-shelf lighting, chandeliers and appropriate down lighting will add a luxe atmosphere to a small space. There’s nothing worse than fumbling in the dark while you create the perfect ensemble, so shine the right light in your enclosed space to expose hidden gems and produce a mood of Hollywood luxury.

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5. What’s mine is (not) yours

Many couples share closet space, and if the area isn’t organised well, this could lead to friction in the relationship. When you’re under pressure as you prepare for a big event, not being able to find the right pair of shoes is frustrating! Assign sides to a closet or walk-in wardrobe, to not only keep things completely separate but also make the space aesthetically appealing. You’ll find your partner’s clothing and shoe collection may contrast yours wonderfully and this will open up the space.

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Keeping up with the Kardashians may not be as expensive as you think. Any wardrobe or closet design that’s big enough to walk into can benefit from these design tips. Open confined spaces and add a little indulgence to your everyday life by reorganising and beautifying your walk-in closet.

The post How to create a celebrity-style closet design without a champagne budget appeared first on Designbx.

Unfortunately, some design trends can interfere with your sleep quality and make it difficult to sleep at night. Problems including an unsupportive bed frame, thin curtains that let in too much light, clutter, and too many pillows can contribute to poor sleep quality. See how you can improve the functional sleep design of your bedroom for a better night’s sleep, avoiding these design trends that can make it hard to sleep.

1. A low profile bed without the right support

Low profile bed frames have a sleek look, but before you skip the box spring for a low profile look, make sure you’ll have enough support for the bed. Some beds aren’t designed to have the mattress directly on the frame. This can lead to the mattress sagging and losing its shape too quickly. If you want a low profile look but lack mattress support on your bed frame, consider a foundation instead, which offers evenly spaced wooden slats that can reinforce the mattress with a supportive base.

2. Using thin curtains that let in too much light.

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You may like the look of light, thin curtains, but they won’t do much to block out light while you’re trying to sleep. It’s best to avoid light exposure at night, as it can interfere with your circadian rhythm and confuse your body into thinking it’s daytime, and time to be awake. Ideally, your curtains or other window coverings will block out as much light as possible at night. Blackout curtains work best. You can use blackout curtains at night and open them during the day to get light exposure.

3. Decorating with too many objects

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Some decorative objects are good for making you feel comfortable and beautifully styling your bedroom. However, too many decorative objects can lead to a cluttered look and may be hard to dust. Clutter can make you feel anxious, and too much dust can trigger allergies while you’re trying to sleep.

4. Putting too many pillows on your bed

Pillows can be decorative and comfortable, but more is not always better. They can take up too much space and make it difficult for you to sleep comfortably. You should only sleep with one to two pillows under your head to avoid interfering with the natural alignment of your spine. However, you should consider sleeping with a pillow between your knees to help support alignment at night if you’re a side sleeper.

Read more about how to help avoid sleep deprivation and long nights when you have young kids at home or select the right bed linen to get a dreamy night’s sleep.

The post These design trends might be ruining your sleep appeared first on Designbx.

It’s that time of year again; when we realise how cluttered our house is, from items that have been stacking up all winter. This can especially be seen in our kids bedrooms. Who knows what long lost items can be found under beds, in secret hiding places or in the depths of the cupboard.
Here are a few 2017 Spring trends that provide kids bedroom ideas for your little treasures. Also find out about all new toys set to hit the shelves this season:

1. Grey is the new white

Grey is becoming the coolest colour of 2017. It’s neutral yet versatile, meaning it can be perfectly paired with any accessory colour and matches any style. You can’t go wrong!
The first thing that will pop into a kid’s mind is ‘boring’ BUT simply add bold coloured accessories, bed covers, toys, and rugs to bring the room alive. It becomes a colourful playland for them, excites the imagination and doesn’t ruin the style of the house. For ideas on how to add colour into a kid’s room, head to Designbx’s Incy Nursery.

What’s new?
Allow your kids to personalise their room with the brand new Knot-a-Mermaid set, hitting the shelves this Spring. It enables kids to make their own fleece blanket designs and is only $27.

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2. Wallpapers rise up again

Wallpapers were almost extinct, but their popularity is on the rise again. We’re not talking about the old floral designs that your grandma still has in her house, there are several new modern wallpapers that can fit perfectly with a modern home.
Geometric prints go with a simple modern style, whereas large modern florals make a statement, especially for Spring.
Try covering just one wall in wallpaper to make it a feature wall. If you then fall in love with the look, you can continue to do the rest of the room.

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Wallpaper featuring wildlife, plants or flowers can be utilised in nurseries to give the room a peaceful, relaxing and natural feeling. Hopefully encouraging consistent long, deep sleeps!

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What’s New?
Instead of wallpapers, you can surprise your kid with a Skyrocket Jurassic World Virtual Reality set, where they can escape reality and immerse themselves. in a dinosaur experience. At only $60, you will want to get your hands on one of these.

3. Liven up the ceiling

So often, our go-to colour for ceilings is plain, old, boring white. How many kids get excited and inspired by a plain white ceiling? Not many (if any at all). There’s no rule to say you can’t go beyond the four walls and design a ceiling that knocks their socks off.
Get your creative cap on and start your roof masterpiece, but don’t worry if painting isn’t your strong point, there are plenty of other options.
Wallpapers can seamlessly go from your walls to your roof and if you’re after something not so permanent, decals are easy to apply and change.
Try geometric patterns, polka-dots, plants, birds or clouds on either the walls ceilings or both.

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4. Adventure awaits

We all know kids love adventure, whether it be searching amongst the gardens in the backyard or creating an adventure of their own at the playground. So it’s no surprise that adventure themed kids rooms have become a must have this year. You can be bold and courageous, by incorporating ropes, rock climbs, ladders and swings into your kids room, but let’s be honest, it’s not super practical! Creating a subtle adventure theme can be as easy as decal stickers of mountains, forest wallpapers or building a teepee for kids to make into a secret hideaway.

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5. Wall hangings are weaving their way in

Textured woven wall hangings bring a slight boho feel to the room. If you really are struggling to find one that fits your kids room, then you can always create your own as an activity! Add some feathers, braids and macrame and you have yourself a masterpiece. They are supposed to be rustic and authentic so don’t stress if yours isn’t the finest of the bunch. The kid’s will love it!
TIP When creating a wall hanging, always keep a style board handy so you stick to the style of the room and don’t go to crazy. You can find example style boards in Designbx’s Shop the Look.

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What’s New?
While you’re busy creating a work of art, keep the kids busy making their own creation. Play Doh is launching their Touch Shape to Life Studio this Spring. Kids simply create a Play Doh character, place it in the studio and scan it to a phone, using the app, to see their creations come to life.

6. Let them draw on the walls

What better way to let a kid’s imagination run free, then to let them draw on the walls, literally. Instead of scrubbing texta off the walls, apply chalk paint to all, half or some of the kids room. They can go crazy on the chalk paint and it will distract them from the rest of the house…

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7. Who needs seats

Pouf cushions are replacing seats in kid’s rooms. They are especially popular with kids because they are not only a seat but a thing to climb, but something to roll on, jump on and hide behind. They come in all different shapes, colours and sizes and such a simple thing can bring excitement to an inquisitive little mind. Your kids will wear out before the pouf does.

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8. Fairy lights

Fairy lights aren’t only for girl’s rooms, there are various different styles and colours that can lighten any room up. Drape them across the bed end, along the roof, across dressers or around window seals. Plus they keep away the monsters at night.

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9. Space-saving beds

Whether you fold them, roll them or hide them under the flooring, space saving beds are becoming a common occurrence in kids rooms. Traditionally, a bed takes up most of the bedroom floor space, but with tuck away beds, kids can get the best of both worlds. A huge playspace during the day and a cosy bed at night.

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10. For the new family member

Designing a nursery is an exciting task, but it’s easy to go over the top. Remember they don’t need a nappy change table for long, so only keep the necessities in the room. You don’t want to be tripping over toys (that your newborn can’t even play with yet). Cribs, change tables, nappy bins and especially arm chairs are the basics you should have. Arm chairs are a timeless piece of furniture and even after your little one has grown to big to be nursed, it can hold all your memories. Keeping the design and colour simple will allow for the chair to stay in the family home forever.

For a timeless arm chair head to Designbx’s Nursery.

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For more style boards, tips, tricks and help, we are here to help!

 Let Your Imagination Run Wild with more ideas from Top Reveal. 

The post Kid’s Bedroom Ideas: 10 Hidden Treasures Your Kids Will Love appeared first on Designbx.

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1… Planning and zoning.

 Decorating an amazing room that grows with your child calls for creativity and clever planning. When you begin designing your child’s bedroom, it’s important to balance function, safety and style.
Consider all the activities that are likely to happen in the room. Will it also serve as a playroom or study? Is there a chance it may eventually become a room for two? Let the activities, items and colours your child loves the most be your guide when you choose furnishings and accessories. After all, it is a room for your little princess and you want them to really enjoy and utilise the space.
Will they need a chair for reading? Plenty of open floor space for blocks and games? Factor in how their interests may change and grow as they get older. Toddlers often need a play table for arts and crafts while a school-age kid may require a desk.

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Make sure your plan allows for plenty of room to grow, change and evolve. For example, using a full-sized desk can work for a young child while supervised but they will also be able to use it at an older age; or you could use a shelf and adjust the height as they grow up.
I like to use timeless pieces for the functional parts of the room, and then add personality with decorative elements so you can easily switch the old for new and change the overall theme of the room to suit your child.
Plan and divide the room into activity based zones for easy flow and function.

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2… Storage.

Planning adequate storage for the room is so important, not just for aesthetics but for functionality as well. You want the room to be used as efficiently as possible so let’s make it easy for your child to put things away and ensure the room is inviting, for them and you. Using appropriate storage for each zone also makes it easy for your child to find things and put them all away. Shelves, bins and baskets should be easy to access. Choose storage boxes with a lid to hide any clutter or mess. This will also eliminate distractions  when your child is using the room for homework.

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Wall hooks are also a great addition for storage as they won’t take up much space. And they also offer a massive bonus by assisting your child if they like to play dress-ups.
A storage box or ottoman is great for cushions and blankets as well as toys, and it doubles as a seat too!

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3… Texture, pattern and personalisation.

Whether it be a bedhead, cushion, wallpaper or bedspread, using different textures and patterns will make your little girl’s room ultra-personal and fun. Also, by keeping other décor items simple, the patterns will not only shine, they’ll also last your daughter from childhood through to her teens.

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Self-expression is a part of your little one’s life, so why hide important personal items that you really like? Display a few items for further personalisation on shelving, bedsides or desks.
Try adding some fluffy and flowy elements like curtains, throws, faux hides, rugs and even canopies, to soften the room and create a luxurious ambience for your princess.  

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Be sure to refer to the SIDS guidelines when planning your child’s rooms, and remember: safety first.

If you are looking for help with small bedroom decorating ideas our design team are ready and waiting to create the perfect hideaway!

The post Small bedroom decorating ideas fit for a Princess! appeared first on Designbx.

The younger they are, the more likely you’ll spend nights with them wedged between you and your partner instead of being trained to sleep independently in their own room. Not only does it prevent you from watching Game of Thrones; it also cancels the production of more children. In a way, choosing a cheap bed for your child reduces the usefulness of your own bed.

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Barring nightmares, there shouldn’t be any reason your kid can’t enjoy their haven. It should be a case of crawling between the sheets, settling in and—depending on their age—falling asleep a few pages into a bedtime story, a few songs into their favourite album, or midway through Facebook messaging.

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There should be a little sigh of relief once they feel the comfort of a quality bed, especially since they’re exhausted after spending the past 12 hours bouncing and crashing their way through another day, probably leaving a trail of destruction.

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Unfortunately intelligent parents are often unable to put two and two together when it comes to associating their child’s poor sleeping habits with a poor quality bed or mattress. We’ve all seen the horrible pine models with no springs and thin mattresses, lavishly covered with fun sheets and a novelty bedspread to overcompensate for cheap furniture that have a negative impact on a kid’s welfare.

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Sturdy beds with quality mattresses are crucial, and if you buy a beautiful unisex bed that’s built to last, it becomes an heirloom to be passed down from one grateful child to the next. Good beds not only help kids get to sleep but help them stay that way until the morning. They support rather than twist backs and necks, encourage and train a healthy posture that will last into adulthood, and ensure allergies and asthma aren’t exacerbated.  

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Making a choice of bedding should start with your feelings about a new bed. If it’s a big decision and a special treat for you, shouldn’t you assume the same applies to your kids? They need plenty of sleep (in their own rooms!) to make sure they wake up happy, energised and ready to spend the day undoing all the good work of adults.

The post Sleepless nights, for the wrong reasons – how to keep your kids in their own beds. appeared first on Designbx.

As proprietor of luxury boutique hotels around the world, British designer Kit Kemp is an expert on bedroom design. Her signature style is an explosion of colour and a mix match of fabrics, yet the rooms remain elegant and refined by balancing strong colours with gentle. Beds are king-sized, with upholstered headboards that reach the ceiling.  Large bedside tables at the side of the bed are paired with ottomans at the foot. Extra seating is provided, complete with large diameter tables.  Heavy drapes on windows work as privacy and block out blinds, but also made from meters of sumptuous fabric for a luxe feel.

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As you would expect from an interior designer to Hollywood stars; Kelly Wearstler’s interiors are dramatic.  Furniture is big and bold, as are the sculptures and artwork.  Her materials palette includes a mixture of onyx, marble, polished stone, mixed metals, leather, silk and fur.  Mirrors behind lamps are used to reflect light around the space and create interest.  Carpet works well in master bedrooms, creating softness underfoot as well as softening acoustics.  Whereas some designers might be included to go with subdued carpeting, Wearstler specifies carpets and rugs that can be strong in colour and pattern.

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In the quieter scheme of things is another British designer, Ilse Crawford.  Human needs and desires are top consideration when designing spaces for clients.  This is evident in the tactile nature of her materials that include cane, timber, leather and velvet.  Lighting levels are kept low, save for large pendants installed from the ceiling, creating interest when viewed from all angles of the room.  With a mantra of appealing to the human senses, often a fireplace is included in the design.  Providing warmth, light, comfort, the fireplace is the ultimate luxury in a master bedroom.

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Whatever your style, you can use these techniques to create a master sanctuary of your own. 

Never far from a measuring tape, Donna Vercoe- Designbx designer is a Vancouver transplant who now calls Sydney home. When making the leap to Australia, she changed gears from working as a pool designer in the construction industry to studying colour and design. She now works as an interior designer, collaborating with clients to ensure their design fits their style, as well as fitting into their space. When not taking measurements, she can be found with a camera in hand, eyeing up details to share on Instagram.

The post Designer Profiles – Interior designers and their master bedrooms appeared first on Designbx.

Without lowering ourselves to the use of terms like nudge nudge, wink wink (oh dear, too late), it’s obvious the master bedroom is the setting for decadence whether it be intimate moments, post party lock-ins (drawn curtains and movie marathons) or pure unadulterated laziness (mmm, laziness). As long as the kids don’t invade your lair, you can enjoy some deserved self-indulgence.

After completing your hectic schedule, the bedroom is your ultimate escape. It only needs to be relevant to you and your partner, which gives you the freedom to express who you are and reflect the room’s primary use. We won’t speculate as to goings on in your room (we don’t judge here at Designbx) but we suggest you select colours, pattern and textures that appeal to your senses.

With that in mind, here are some of our fave brands. What tickles your fancy?

Hunting for George is an adaptable choice that suits most styles, with throws and accessories completing the look. Brand Director Lucy Glade-Wright believes the key to the perfect choice of linen is a style that has longevity. “Choose something that you love and will continue to love years later,” Lucy suggests.

The other key factor is colour selection, which is a key consideration for the company’s designers. “Colour is like music. It can trigger an emotional response that prompts memories and ideas. Colour is often the first thing we look towards for inspiration,” says Lucy.

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As for the kids, getting linen selection right can create a captivating world that is comfortable yet stimulating. Be daring, have fun and tap into your child’s imagination. You’re not the only one who should have a haven that expresses your personality.

Top kids’ linen brand, Little Ones, recognises the fact that children are developing their own styles from a young age. The designers specialise in Retro and Modern Eclectic styles with explosive colours and energetic patterns. The wonder of a fair can be enjoyed in the safety of a kid’s hideaway.

Cleverly relevant to both genders, Little Ones delivers escapism while optimistic colours create a reassuring environment. A key to the brand’s success is meticulous attention to the most important details, ensuring materials are of the highest standards of quality and safety, including being Oeko-Tex certified.

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Looking to cut down on shopping time? Kip & Co.’s Boho, Modern Eclectic and Coast styles are designed for everyone in the family. Their bright boutique bedding offers dazzling choices for folks with their eyes on bold choices, and the brand’s styles encourage customers to layer and mix patterns.

“The Stardust collection has something a bit fantastical and magical about it,” says Hayley Pannekoecke, of Kip & Co. “It’s also got a very feminine soft colour palette that works with the season’s stone fruit, soft rose, burnt brandy, grape and silver.”

They even do bassinet sheets, pyjamas and overnight bags, so Kip & Co. can be on the go with you! For adults and kids alike, it’s comforting to connect bedroom styles and adventures in the wide world, especially with beautiful leather or canvas bags. According to Hayley, “They’re the perfect accessory for the memory-making wanderer.”

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Probably the most exciting new arrival to the Kip & Co. range is velvet. Hearing Hayley explain the sensation of sleeping on velvet makes it an easy sell. “Velvet pillows have basically changed my life!” she insists. “There’s something about the depth of colour and texture of velvet. As we move into winter, it’s the ultimate friend to keep you snug at night.”

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A ‘forward-looking approach’ gives the designers an edge, and while they are capable of extravagance and daring colours, customers can also enjoy subtle, muted textures. Experienced globetrotters but proud of their hometown, Aura insists ‘yes, it’s little bit Scandinavian, a little bit Indian, but it’s also a whole lot of Melbourne.’

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Specialising in Coast and Industrial styles, Sheets on the Line probably wins the prize for best brand name. The idea for the business was hatched over a cup of coffee in Steve & Deb Clifford-Ames’ favourite café. Remarkably, by the end of the day, the light bulb moment had expanded to become a grand scale and vision.
Filling a void left by traditional manufacturers’ failure to deliver daring, affordable products, the couple not only provided a vibrant array of alternatives but also provided a more environmentally friendly option.

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Like Designbx, these brave businesses are part of the design revolution that gives every Australian an opportunity to express their personality through design. Whether you’re creating a stylish boudoir or creating a fun world for the kids, there’s no shortage of quality bed linen.

Designbx  |  Between the sheets- choosing the right bed linen  |  designbx.com

The post Between the sheets – choosing the right bed linen appeared first on Designbx.

The cool bedrooms of famous monarchs are well within reach. To turn your drab bedroom into a boudoir starts with the essentials—those images that come to mind when you remember period pieces or the art of antiquity: the majestic four-poster with a large, extravagant bedhead that adds scale.

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Peach and plump!

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Buttons, studs, leather, mirror, this is pure Luxe!

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Come on folks; we’re spoiling ourselves here, so let’s do it properly. Can you ever have enough cushions? That’s a trick question of course. No self-respecting member of the nobility would settle for less than a small mountain of them, filled to excess with feathers.

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Cool bedrooms include layers of breathable bed linen. From the interior design styles of Coastal to Luxe, there’s a wonderfully excessive boudoir to fit most styles. The softness of Coastal is an obvious way to guarantee comfort (cotton, hemp and bamboo) while Luxe fabrics for cushions, bedheads, ottomans and window treatments offer a truly stately appeal.

Why not mix and match your linens to create depth…

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In all cases, start by being bold, and that includes artwork, with special attention to frames. Similarly, the use of ornately framed mirrors helps to enlarge the space. As you decorate, treat each item like art, including a signature item of furniture—perhaps a large, luxurious armchair in a corner.

Bold in size and colour

In stark contrast, colour is the one factor that requires a more subdued approach. Make your bold statements with pattern, texture and scale instead. While classic boudoirs were lavish, they were not loud. Remember that this is a space where you need to truly feel relaxed. Lighting is crucial. Like your choices of colour, avoid anything that has a jarring or abrasive effect. Stylish pendent lights are an effective way of adding a Luxe interior design feel.

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Organise the bits and bobs of your vanity area in crystal boxes and place creams in glass bottles. Along with Lucite make-up organisers, these garnishes add opulence while removing clutter. Having pampered your senses of touch and sight, don’t forget to add the right scents.

Flowers ignite the senses

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Fresh flowers provide the final touch, and give your boudoir a unique and changeable flourish that makes your bedroom feel like a hotel get-away. Why escape when you can spoil yourself at home?

The post Cool bedrooms: From Bedroom to Boudoirs appeared first on Designbx.