As a key speaker at an annual global Airbnb Open Festival, interior designer and Designbx co-founder Kerena Berry presented to over 300 Airbnb hosts, to help hosts increase occupancy, guest ratings and daily rates. We share some of the best tips in our blog below, plus a link to ‘The Designbx Airbnb host guide’.

There was a time when Australians denied having a distinct culture, but our popularity as a tourist destination is solid proof that foreign visitors believe we’re a unique and beautiful part of the world. As Airbnb hosts, it’s our job to reinforce our unique culture and provide the setting for our customers’ travel fantasies. 

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Travelling is one of the best things that you can do for your health. It helps your physical and mental health, and can be excellent for the soul according to Positive Health Wellness. So what type of experience does an Airbnb customer expect? At Designbx, we can help by providing a few design tips to make your home attract five star reviews.

Firstly, imagine your target demographic. What interiors do they expect from a seaside getaway, a few days in our unique inner city suburbs, or a tranquil stay in the Hunter Valley? Put yourself in the shoes of your potential customer as you complete the free Designbx Style Quiz, which will provide a visual style board.

Once you have a clear vision, let’s get to work on the foundations: walls and floors. A fresh lick of silk or satin paint, or a sugar soap scrub will provide the most common basic necessity: a visually clean and hygienic space. Choose flooring that’s easy to clean and works with your style.

Next, make sure there’s enough furniture for your guests in each area, and always assume they’ll move as an entire group between rooms. Ensure they have a wonderful sleep by using latex covers, which have memory for extra comfort.

Designbx Airbnb Project in Curl Curl, NSW

Temperature is critical, and don’t just assume air-conditioning is the one solution; think about your floor coverings, window treatments, materials and props. Feel free to overcompensate with extra blankets, feather doonas, rugs, heated towel racks, blinds & curtains. Don’t forget fly screens!

Tantalise the senses. Have soft, relaxed music playing on arrival. Spotify is a very cheap option, and you can set up playlists to enhance the atmosphere. Timer lights and heating are always appreciated. Ensure the house smells fresh and homely on arrival by using vaporisers.

Plush slippers by the door spoil guests and encourage them to take their shoes off. We even put gumboots on the veranda of a rural getaway and provided baskets labelled with the name of each chicken so guests could start their day with a little egg-hunting adventure.

Add a guestbook with tips and quirks you may be used to but could become frustrations for people in a new environment. How does every appliance operate, where do they find supplies, what are the cultural attractions? Again, imagine you are the guest.

A little guest basket champions local produce and shows pride in the community; or in situations where the house is isolated, it could provide goods impossible to find locally. These little touches remind people that you are welcoming them into your home.

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Let’s have a little fun with aesthetics. Refer to your Style Board when making any purchases. Enhancing architectural features is a good place to start. High ceilings scream for oversized artwork, and feature pendant lights look great on large kitchen island benches.

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Ensure your styling stays similar from one room to the next. Use a harmonised colour scheme, and experiment with texture to add character. Layout is crucial. Interior designers use spatial planning to place items in a room. This ensures you have a fluid path from one space to another. At Designbx we use Floor Plans to help designers and clients collaborate on layout decisions, which saves time and money.

Designbx Airbnb Project in Hunter Valley, NSW

Double the amount of dinner and kitchenware, pillows and towels you expect will be required. Make sure you provide ways to block out the sun. Use durable finishes, aged timbers, non absorbent bench tops, commercial fabrics on sofas or ever-reliable leather. Opt for poly blend or natural fibre rugs, which are easily cleaned with a damp cloth.

For more organic touches, indoor plants purify the air and add aroma while flowers use visuals and unique perfumes for a sense of wellbeing. While a bedside table is a prime position for a vase, make sure you choose a flower that doesn’t have a powerful fragrance that might inhibit the ability to sleep.

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Don’t forget to entertain your guests. In any home you would expect to find books, music, games, DVDs or a hard drive with movies, and even musical instruments. There are times when we simply want to relax and have a quiet night in. 

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Never ignore safety. Even the most minor injury to a child will infuriate your adult guests. Place everyday items in easily accessible spots: don’t store heavy ceramic bowls on high shelves, and place linen in heavy lidded chests.

Underlay under rugs not only present better but also won’t curl up on the ends and create trip hazards. Place slip treads on all your stairs, especially in wet areas. Blind cords must have winding hooks (especially in children’s rooms). Also ensure you keep up to date with pool, spa and fire rules & regulations.

Add a touch of luxe. Ikea offers feather inserts for cushions that start at $5, so why risk looking cheap? Feather or duck duvets might cost more but feel beautiful and encourage guests to turn off heating, saving you money in the long-term.

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Feature toiletries in every wet room. The feel and smell of quality toiletries are lasting in the mind. Tea and coffee are common vices, so have a tea box (T2) and a POD coffee machine. With linen, opt for quality 300-plus thread count (no polyester), which wash well and last longer.

Designbx Airbnb Project in Twin Waters, QLD

Once you’ve created the perfect Airbnb home, capture your beautiful spaces on camera. Go professional, preferably with an interior or real estate specialist. Select a hero shot that captures your key feature. If the feature is exterior, like ocean views, remind browsers that it’s a home by taking the shot from inside. Soft lighting like a cloudy day is perfect, and avoid filters so people can see the real space and finishes.

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We’ve given you a few DIY tips but forecast the positive effect a professionally designed and decorated space may have on price and occupancy, and spend accordingly. From commercial interior design to personally designing your home, Designbx is an online interior design solution that is both affordable and collaborative. Unlike most freelancers out there, we offer set priced packages and access to a wider network of designers.

If you don’t know where to start you can always reach out to the expert Designbx Team for a FREE Interiors Design consultation.

 “Designbx   |   “Top interior design tips for Airbnb hosts”    |  designbx.com

The post Airbnb Hosts – Top tips to become the best Airbnb hosts appeared first on Designbx.

Boho is wild abandonment! Global influences are paired with an overall casual feel because the key is to carefully create a purposely “messy” look.

The term Bohemian came from the French word for ‘gypsy’, which works perfectly for describing the spirit and theme of Boho style.  Embrace the local market and pair 1950’s Hollywood with rustic timbers, lace, Navajo and Moroccan patterns.  Layering textiles is essential because it ensures the styling isn’t ‘flat’.

Designbx Co-Founder and Head of Interior Design Kerena Berry shares her 6 top tips. Achieve the Boho style in your home with Designbx and RealEstate.com

1. Top tip

Look like you’ve travelled the world, even if you are yet to do so. If you have spent your life collecting things, the boho style calls for you to show them off. As opposed to minimalist interior designs, bohemian embraces mess and knick-knacks. 

Image Source: Bisque Traders

2. Boho style traits

Relaxed seating (feather, soft filled), corrected leathers, layers, vintage chandeliers, lace, wallpaper, rustic timbers, Moroccan details, hand-dyeing, Ikats patterns, cushions and Persian rugs. Indoor plants are another key staple to bohemian interior design because it creates another layer of colour. It’s also common to see more indoor plants than furniture pieces with this style. 

Image Source: Collective Hub

3. Designers/Artists

Shannon Fricke, Sibella Court, Kit Kemp, Abigail Ahern, Justine Blakeney…to name a few

Image Source: Barefoot Gypsy via Interiors Addict

4. Pantone colours

5. Brands that fit

Tree of life, Uniqwa Furniture Collections, Bisque Traders, Yak and Yeti Trader, Barefoot Gypsy, Nouvelle Nomad, Urban Outfitters, Free People, Anthropolgie, Ruby Star Traders, The Society Inc., Sage x Clare, Quercos & Co, A Rum Fellow, The Dharma Door.

Image Source: Barefoot Gypsy via Interiors Addict

6. A perfect day for boho

In the afternoon sun on your oversized feather-filled armchair, bare feet propped on your warn Moroccan ottoman and an oversized mug of brewed tea and pecan toasted bread.

Image source: Designbx

7. Fragrance or tune

Sandalwood and patchouli, warm aromas that increase feelings of well-being.

Image Source: Nouvelle Nomad via RealEstate.com.au

Boho is a style that is somewhat contradictory yet perfectly harmonious.  A home interior design style that embraces the feeling of Summer and warmth, whatever the season.   

The post Boho style guide appeared first on Designbx.

The Scandi style in 3 words: Organised, connected and calm.  The Scandi look is an offshoot from the mid-century movement that brought a populist minimal look.  Known for its simplicity, functionality and beauty, the appeal of the Scandi style has spread all over the world.  The use of light is extremely important, and many Scandinavian-styled homes are characterised by the use of earthy muted tones, natural materials, clean lines and minimal ornamentation. These key traits ensure you don’t build up clutter and promote a simple living space and lifestyle. 

Designbx Co-Founder and Head of Interior Design Kerena Berry, shares some basic tips for how you can achieve the Scandi style in your home with Designbx and RealEstate.com

Top tips for the Scandi style

1. Wooden Flooring

The Scandi style features wooden flooring-anywhere from a washed oak, aged dove grey, through to a clean painted white finish.

Image Source: Home Beautiful

2. Scandi style traits

Scandi features flat and soft textures and a strong geometric pattern.  The colours start with a white foundation and often have  muted pastels.  Some other key style traits include: vaporous blues, soft greys, milky whites, soft durable fabrics, resin homewares, craftsmanship, bleached timbers, concealed function, scarcity.

The Scandi style really showcases the beauty of simple objects. 

Image Source: Home Design Lover

3. Designers/Artists

To name just a few….Hans J. Wegner, Eric Buch, Niels Jorgen Haugensen.

Image Source: Interiors Addict

4. Pantone colours

Don’t forget that playing with textures can add that extra simple touch.

5. Brands that fit

Steal the Limelight, Muuto, Koskela, Ikea, Great Dane, Beck Urban Furniture, Morosso (hub furniture),  Nordic Fusion, Satara, RJ Living, Sheets on the Line, Kikki K, Nordik Living Icon by Design, Miss Amara Rugs, Norsu Interiors

Image Source: Norsu Interiors via Realhomes.com

6. A perfect day

Good coffee in bed, a leisurely rise to start the day, shower and dress for the local produce market. Meet friends, chat to the growers and buy two huge sacks of food. Head home to make a minestrone soup and cheese scones, then consume in front of a roaring fire with knitted blankets pulled high.

Image Source: Cox & Cox via Realhomes.com

7. Fragrance or tune

Pigeon & Weasel Candle-lassic Vanilla. Purity.

Image Source: My Scandinavian Home via Airtasker Blog

With its minimalism theme and simple beauty, it is easy to understand why the Scandi style has become one of the trendiest interior design styles in the modern world. Try an Asian-fusion approach with Japandi interior design – a trend that combines Japanese interior design with Scandinavian interior design.   

The Scandi style also peers seamlessly with both Boho Style and Coastal Style.

The post Scandi style guide appeared first on Designbx.

There’s a lot of advice going around at the moment given this topic is so relevant – so this week we want to share some of the more personal lessons and tips we’ve learnt as seasoned ‘work-from-home/digital nomads’ for the past 5 years.

We’ll continue to provide bite-size pieces of information you can action over the next few weeks without feeling too overwhelmed, especially if you’re on a budget to setup.

Working from home: Tips from those in the know

Tips from Kylie:

1. Employ some furry friends

If you have pets, invite them into your workspace at home.   It’s been proven that pets have physiological benefits and can fulfil emotional needs in the workplace, so take full advantage of this when you’re working from home.  Designbx regularly features my 2 fur babies – Humphrey the Chocolate Lab and Sophie the Black Lab.  I often have them in my office with me – they keep my feet warm, they’re great listeners and they don’t talk back.  Humphrey is well behaved, but Sophie is a regular bin-chicken and always going through my rubbish….just as well I love her.

2. Step away from the kitchen table

Speaking from experience, I think this is the biggest mistake I made and a trap lots of people fall into. I worked from the kitchen table for 18 months too long – out of convenience but also because the thought of cleaning out my office (aka – the junk room) was too overwhelming.

The problem with working from my kitchen/dining living space, apart from the fact I annoyed everyone else who wanted to use it, is that I never really felt like I left work.   I couldn’t shut off.  It was always in sight, that computer monitor at the end of the table staring me down.  With my home office setup, I can shut the door and I’m done for the day.  Most importantly, it also meant I could style my office with some great home décor online purchases.

Tips from Kerena:

1. A picture is worth 1000 words

It can be easy to start feeling isolated or lonely as a result of working from home.  A trick I use to keep me in good company all day as well as keeping the creative juices flowing, is an inspiration wall at my desk.  There are no ends to what I put on my wall – photos of friends and family, inspirational quotes, cards and messages, inspiring design images, style and home décor.  Basically, anything that brings light to my day consequently making me feel a lot lighter.

2. Music to my ears

I’m not a fan of the sound of silence – an absolute must for my happy workplace is music.  I have Spotify running all day long.  Depending on what I have my head into will depend on the genre.  Some of my favourite playlists are:

Morning Motivation – A great way to get the brain ticking in the morning. https://open.spotify.com/user/spotify/playlist/37i9dQZF1DXc5e2bJhV6pu?si=L_ZUrn_1SQWWo_JEIdZlYw

Acoustic Chill – I use this when I’m working on design projects and need to be creative. https://open.spotify.com/user/spotify/playlist/37i9dQZF1DWYGZAMYFDM8S?si=e1EygI1PSfulv8x_2h9bYw

Kingswood – a band I recently saw.  It evokes happy memories so I stay positive throughout. https://open.spotify.com/artist/4zOw0E0NA7B4lIYyc3XNt5?si=oXMlYdOWSBeZizeC7dQgqQ

Feel-Good Indie Rock – more towards the end of my day when I need a boost in productivity https://open.spotify.com/user/spotify/playlist/37i9dQZF1DX2sUQwD7tbmL?si=7KW_Y_muRm6Njg6sqFF_XQ

We’ll be back soon with some more of our work hacks. Be kind to yourself and get some sun where you can.

Kylie and Kerena x

The post Avoid feeling lonely when working from home – part one appeared first on Designbx.

Our in-house Interior Design expert Kerena Berry– Designbx shares her insight into the emerging Trends for 2020.  This year will see a pull toward more dynamic and stimulating interiors.  Iterations of each of the below trends will transpire across various styles; Boho, Luxe, Coastal, the rules are being pushed, and more than ever styles are being bled together in an individually creative manner. It’s time to release those creative juices!   

GEO UNION

In a constantly changing and dynamic world we are trending towards paying closer attention to the earth’s surface- the changes, causes and effects. We will continue to evolve and take a finer look at how we influence the environment and the results of our lifestyles.  In this heightened awareness we will start the blend with our surroundings, drawing on integrating textures of clay, concrete, minerals, foliage and rock sediments through pattern and prints. The palette is a meridian of neutral earth tones. “Fabric and wallpaper applications will be the hero elements for this trend’ Berry– Designbx

Image- Pattern Curator

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FINE OPTIMISM

This season sees a yearning for something comforting and pleasing.  A celebration of the past and evolving it with the new. Antique aesthetics, french textiles and unobtrusive print and patterns.  Colours are delicate sun faded and organic tones. This is a bright happy space.

Berry says “Layering is key here. A fan of colours and patterns can comfortably share a single space, however, a similar tonal range will be the key element to ensure a refined design”  

Image- Pattern Curator

Image- Pattern Curator

sources:  thecoolhour.com, refinery29.com, ebay.com, nicolevalentinedon.com, somegram.com, instagram (@bohemiandecor), amapofdreams.com, vsco.com (vscovibess), attirepin.com

COUTURE BOHEMIAN

Inspired by the desire for expression and creativity, pulling from the free spirited lifestyle of artists, philosophers and writers.  “ This is one style we have seen a huge influx in our projects over the last 6 months. Australian’s are welcoming richer tones and heavier fabrics into the home and commercial spaces”- Berry.

We look to focus on an eclectic style of gilded neutrals, deep saturated jewel tones overlayed with considerate and detailed bohemian patterns. “Embracing the idea that “More is more”, colour, texture and pattern clash adding a daring twist with theatrical drama” Globewest

Image- Pattern Curator

Image- Globewest

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Image- Pattern Curator

2020 sees us taking everything up to the next level. Colour, texture, prints and patterns being pushed to surprise. A little piece of the past, future and present all colliding to create familiar yet challenging new designs – almost anything goes!

“It is refreshing to foremost see variety. A beautiful layering of modern techniques, with old era soul, and consideration and pull to nature’s forms and tones.” Kerena Berry Designbx

-Kerena Berry is a Senior Interior Designer and co-founder of Designbx, Australia’s online interior design solution.  

The post Design Trends 2020 appeared first on Designbx.

The bathrooms are one of the most used areas in a home. Though the value of your property is determined based on your entire property, key rooms such as the bathroom and kitchen are known to hold more worth. Hence, renovating your bathroom before putting your property on the market is an almost risk-free way of increasing its value.

1. Update taps, fixtures and fittings

Though taps, fixtures and fittings make up a small area of your bathroom as a whole, they
can play a large part in your bathroom aesthetic. Things like taps, towel rails and toilet roll
holders can all get rusty or dull after being in use for a long time.
Silver tap ware remains the go-to choice since it gives a clean, neutral look. If you’re hoping to increase the value of your property, it is important to ensure that your bathroom remains neutral-coloured so that it can appeal to as many potential buyers as possible.

Image reference Taps and fixtures

2. Upgrade to a larger mirror

Bathroom mirrors tend to be small and/or unattractive. Upgrading your mirror is a good idea if your mirror is scratched, worn or has water damage. Also, if your bathroom is small, switching to a larger mirror can give the illusion of more space.

Mirrors are also a design piece. Choosing a unique one can take your interior design to the next level. However, aim to choose a mirror that would appeal to most people. Otherwise, it could potentially make your home less valuable to prospective buyers.

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3. Paint or re-tile walls and floors

Refreshing outdated tiles whether it be on your walls or floors can make one of the most
significant changes to your bathroom. For your walls, you can use tile paint for a budget-
friendly and quick rejuvenation. Of course, if your budget and time allows for it, re-grouting or re-tiling completely can make your bathroom look brand new.
Unfortunately, bathroom floor tiles can’t be repainted. If your tiles are in relatively good
condition, a DIY re-grout might be enough. However, it might be worthwhile to have a
professional re-tile your floors. If you have a small bathroom, larger tiles help to make the
room seem more spacious.

Image Reference Update walls 

4. Replace toilet

Another relatively fast renovation you can complete over the weekend is replacing your
toilet. If you get a professional involved, the process will be smooth for you. However, this
would require a larger budget.

If you’re hoping to do something yourself or to save money, replacing the toilet seat alone
won’t leave a massive dent in your wallet. Plus, it’s relatively easy to do on your own or with the help of a friend.

5. Add storage solutions

Adding storage to your bathroom is an almost guaranteed way to make your bathroom more appealing. If you have a small bathroom, being able to add hidden storage such as storage cabinets with mirrors can add a lot of value.

Image reference Mirror Cabinet

Having a variety of storage solutions is important for bathrooms in particular. You can add
simple floating shelves to keep things off the floor, giving the illusion of more space. Extra
towel racks and hooks can also make the room more attractive.

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Bathrooms renovations can range in difficulty and price. Some of these ideas can definitely be done on your own. However, you might want to hire some extra help for anything out of your skill range. They can still be quick! In terms of budget, the common rule of thumb to follow is to allocate no more that 2% of your current property value to a bathroom renovation.

Guest author: James Pointon is a Commercial Manager at OpenAgent.com.au, an online
agent comparison website helping Australians to sell, buy and own property.

The post 5 value-adding bathroom renovations you can complete this weekend appeared first on Designbx.

Image reference: Bohemian Modern by Emily Henson

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Pairing back to a monochromatic palette brings a contemporary take to this look.

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Keep true to the bolder colour palette

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The materials that make the Tribal Touch look possible are rustic timbers, hand woven baskets used for both storage and wall features, batik and block printed fabrics, Pottery, feather detailing and stone ware. To achieve the look, check out our  tribal style guide.

The post The Tribal Touch appeared first on Designbx.

If you’re planning a complete makeover or tweaking your current home, we have the top interior design trends for achieving a South European influenced style.

1. Tiles are a must!

The easiest way to incorporate Mediterranean house decor into your home is using tiles of all colours, patterns, shapes and sizes. Tiles can be for flooring, kitchen splash backs or fireplaces – so get creative!
For a sun-baked Moroccan look, focus on using terracotta tiles in shades of dusty orange.  Incorporating patterned mosaic tiles is a large component of this particular style, and are great for bordering floors and walls.

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2. On the walls

A natural, rustic texture is commonly seen on the interiors and exterior of buildings in Greece and Italy. A textured look in the home is achieved by layering paint and glaze on plaster or alternatively creating sand textured walls for visual depth. Remember that you’re creating a naturally textured wall, so don’t be too particular when throwing around paint and glaze.
Using tinted dry wall compound can simulate a plaster wall without the cost and effort. When redesigning walls and choosing a colour palette think of sky blues, bright yellows and aqua.

3. Inspired accessories

Mediterranean house decor traditionally incorporates materials such as burnished bronze and wrought iron into accessories. A wrought iron fireplace goes well with Moroccan-inspired rugs in shades of red and blue. By using blue floral patterned vases as flower vases or cooking utensil holders, it’s a key subtle way to incorporate the style. Complement vases with colourful patterned cushions and neutral throws.

For a more elegant, Luxe inspired look, use gold as the main accent colour.

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4. Italian highlights

Italian inspired interiors often incorporate dark wooden floorboards, over sized furniture and red and orange in colour schemes. Colours that mimic a Tuscan sunset such as warm reds and terracotta orange will embrace a European summer all year round.

Encapsulate Italian design in the living room by pairing red cushions with an orange patterned rug, and create a bold statement in the bedroom with Italian bed linen.

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5. Greek inspired

For a Greek twist on your style, think deep blues matched with bright turquoise in your furniture and statement pieces. Using whitewashed wood flooring throughout the house and covered with Moroccan style rugs in the bedrooms pays beautiful homage to the Greeks. A common design feature in Greek homes that are perched on the side of the sea are statement pillars and rustic exposed beams, so consider using these tastefully. In the bedroom, opt for large statement bedheads and bed frames.

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To make re-decorating easy, meet Grace Garrett, a designer and textile designer who embraces the Mediterranean style. Grace has been in the design industry for over 20 years and is one of the interior design online experts at Designbx.

The post Mediterranean house decor: Set sail to Europe appeared first on Designbx.

Designbx was one of the exciting young businesses setting the trend at last week’s Telstra Business Awards finals. The Telstra Business Awards are the most competitive and prestigious awards of their kind in the country, and Designbx’ co-directors celebrated their finals appearance in style at a black tie affair in Sydney on Thursday night.

“We were so proud to be named finalists,” said Co-Director Kerena Berry. “The competition for these awards is tough and the judging process is rigorous. We were in the top 10% of all applicants across key judging criteria like strategy and vision, people, corporate social responsibility (CSR), operations, financial acumen and marketing. We were always quite proud of our standards, but to be recognised by the judges brings us a certain level of validation that I think will inspire us.”

Designbx was in the NSW Emerging & Energised category, which is apt considering the massive leaps the business has taken over the past 12 months. Major partnerships, repeat clients and national opportunities saw the online interior design business triple its revenue, complete projects in all states, significantly expand trade and supply partnerships  , and create a commercial design arm of the business.

“It’s been an exhilarating roller-coaster this year  and we’re incredibly proud of how far the business has come.,” Co-Director Kylie Pratt said. “This event feels like a fitting celebration of our achievements and im truly humbled to be in the same room as these other amazing businesses. We’ve reached a  level in our business journey where we can now focus on further developing our culture,contributing to the community via our CSR plan which we’re passionate about and building on the quality of our many business collaboration and partnership opportunities. Coming this far is proof of that. Telstra doesn’t recognise businesses as being truly strong unless they are as ethical as they are innovative, so that’s a great source of pride for us.”

Sitting at the next table were fellow Northern Beaches business, Manly Spirits, who took out the award in the Emerging & Energised category. Considering both businesses are based on the Northern Beaches, the Designbx directors were happy to see the award go to locals.

“We recently combined forces with Manly Spirits to run a promotion,” Co-Director Emily Carding explained. “So we already have a great relationship with them, and they totally deserve the recognition. When we look back at what we’ve gained by being a part of the Telstra Business Awards, we’re feeling blessed. It’s been amazing to analyse what we’ve achieved, share our vision, and learn from the successes of like-minded businesses.”

After tasting success at this year’s awards, Designbx is already looking forward to next year’s awards when they hope to go one step further to the national finals. For now, they wish their fellow NSW finalists luck at the national 2018 Telstra Australian Business Awards in Melbourne on Thursday, 20 September 2018.

The Designbx Co-Founders and awards support team

The post Designbx at the 2018 Telstra Business Award night appeared first on Designbx.

1. Keep it natural

Natural textiles are the easiest way to create a seaside vibe in your home. They not only provide a relaxing atmosphere but make the home feel cosy and warm, like these cushions from Coastal Living. Natural materials include: canvas, rattan, cotton, distressed wood, coral, stone and timber. Cane and wicker are great for replacing those boring old light bulbs. Or try artworks that have the same effect, such as our seawood artwork.

You don’t need to spend a fortune either. Your old timber furniture can be refreshed with a cerused finish. This enriches the grain of the timber, using a pigment grain filler, which can also be tinted to make your old furniture match your new style.

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2. Bring foliage inside

White and green foliage go together like peanut butter and jelly. Plants are the perfect addition to the creating a home seaside style. They can brighten up any space and bring life and colour into small living room designs. Potted plants such as palms, magnolias and white hydrangeas and cactuses can be the highlight of the room (and they are easy to keep alive). Alternately, you can opt for fake leave arrangements and no one will ever know. Try monstera leaves or palm leaves to complement coral and timber accessories and furniture. Perch your smaller plants on a floating timber shelf. 

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3. Unique wall hangings and features

Wall hangings are the new craze and can match just about any interior style. Apart from looking amazing, they create a cosy feel in the room. Sticking with the motif of natural materials, wall hangings are made from feathers, rope, cotton and fabrics. We offer a subtle pink unique wall hanging, that is perfect for a coastal home. Wooden oars are also a great idea for wall features as they stick with the coastal theme but can be personalised with some painting.

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4. Embrace retro and eclectic

Retro prints bring back the good old days when surfboards were simply a plank of timber. Black and white prints mix well with coastal colours such as teal, white, brown and navy. Try creating a arrangement of retro photos, vintage posters and coastal ornaments to make a feature piece in the room. 

If you want to hang photos yet still keep with the seaside theme, get creative and use rope to dangle your most cherished memories.

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5. Quirky furniture and statement pieces

Let’s go back to cerused finishes for timber. By tinting the pigment filler you can create brand new items of furniture that catch the eye. Try a teal colour for your coffee table and style it with a matching coastal print. You can also use hanging chairs with natural cushions, to create a statement and style it with large plants and wall hangings to create a secretive corner getaway.

Surfboards can also be unique features and can personalised to suit your style. They can also be mounted on the wall to make a great shelf. Match these ideas with funky mirrors that make the room feel larger and it’ll make interior decorating a breeze.

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For more style boards, tips, tricks and help in creating a home seaside style, we are here to help!

The post Bring back Summer with a home seaside style appeared first on Designbx.