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. 

Image reference

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.

Image Reference
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.

Image reference

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.

Image reference

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. 

Image reference

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.

Image reference

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.

Image reference

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.

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

Image Reference

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

Image reference    

Image reference

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.

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.

Image Reference

Eco green design

As climate disruption continues, consumers are also becoming much more conscious of their contribution to the problem. Actively engaging with our politicians by demanding policy reforms that curb our carbon footprint is as important as ever. Importantly, becoming environmentally efficient in our own homes now, also makes a major difference in turning back the clock on climate change.

Gone are the days of installing energy efficient light bulbs as the only option to go green. Many felt as if they were being forced to sacrifice style for sustainability.  Eco-friendly engineering has exploded over the last decade and our options for small footprint homes ranges from composting to eco green design in the home. We are now able make everything in our homes more efficient and eco-friendly, at a more affordable price tag.

1. Efficient energy- Solar panels

Even the most enthusiastic supporters of solar power have been shocked about how fast the cost of solar is falling. In the last five years alone, the price of large scale solar has fallen by 58% in Australia. Unless you’re a fossil fuel company, that’s really great news. Even Royal Dutch Shell has been forced to admit that the energy sector will be dominated by solar this century.

From a design perspective, Tesla has changed that game too. Solar panels have shed their dark and bulky appearance for a sleek aesthetic that blends seamlessly with all types of roofing, including terracotta tiles. Pundits may make the argument that the solar market is getting overcrowded, with IKEA now looking to bring rooftop solar panels and installation services to its Australian stores. As long the solar power is regulated, the more the merrier!

2. Bamboo

No longer the “Poor Man’s Timber”, Bamboo is becoming one of the best building materials. Its abundance and steady growth rate make it the number one eco-friendly and durable choice. Designers and engineers are getting hip to its versatility and are continuously exploring new ways to incorporate the material. Everything from common floorboards and cabinets are now available in eco-friendly bamboo. Times are changing with full buildings entirely crafted from bamboo, taking notes from ancient Chinese architecture. Designers and architects are even going so far as to showcase its uniqueness instead of hiding it.

Image Reference

Bamboo’s reputation as a fast grower is pretty common knowledge. You need something that will grow quickly enough to block out the neighbour’s weekly barbecues? Bamboo is there for you. But what might surprise you is that  bamboo can grow up to a metre in a single day and be harvested in half the time of even soft woods. As a bonus, it neutralises four times the amount of carbon as many other trees, making it perfect for eco green design. 

In China, bamboo is a low carbon alternative to plastic, yet engineers find difficulty in making it a viable option. Recent advancements in heating and bending the plant have taken off. New products are coming into the market, with everything from speakers to hairdryers. Developed from mixing resins with bamboo fibres, the creation is one that is stronger than reinforced concrete with the benefit of being biodegradable.

Image Reference

3. Sustainable timbers

When it comes to timbers for eco green design, bamboo isn’t the only game in town. In fact, there are over 70 timber varieties grown in Australia that boasts the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) stamp of approval. FSC is rigorous in its sustainability standards, and is the largest and most well respected eco-certifying program of its kind. Its website offers information on everything from sustainable Australian timbers available to a list of retailers for purchase.

If you’re looking for eco-friendly hardwood timber flooring, Australian Solar Timbers (AST), located in New South Wales is a great place to go. AST was started by two ANZAC soldiers in 1919 and has been offering sustainable timber ever since. They are the largest users of solar kiln technology- a practice that harnesses the sun’s power to quickly and efficiently dry out timber- and the company prides itself on being pioneers in local Forestry Stewardship.

Image Reference

3. Beefing up on energy efficiency

From a dollar and cents standpoint, it’s cheaper to go green. You are more likely to receive better quality construction, and lower utility bills with green energy. Not only will adding these features make your neighbours envious, it will stand out to potential buyers if you choose to sell your home.

Most buyers are searching for a turn-key property, and they will pay more for a property that includes smart-home technology. In fact, when asked in a 2016 study byColdwell Banker, 54% of home buyers said that if they were given the choice between two identical homes and one had “smart technology” upgrades, they would pay more for the smart home. Those numbers increase for parents with children in the home and millennial buyers to 59% and 61% respectively.

Real estate brokers are following these trends and are highlighting these benefits in their marketing efforts. Appraisers believe that high costs justify taking smart upgrades into account, which result in higher valuations for smart homes.

Image Reference

Investing in things like efficient appliances and timers for your lights are all great options to smarten up your home. Invest in energy saving technology like Nest, which allows you to adjust your air conditioning and other features from your smartphone. These investments could save money now, make money in the future and make you a better steward of the environment.

Over the next few weeks we’ll be offering useful and practical tips on how you can be environmentally savvy in the home.  

Krista Collard is the founder and principle of Sustainable Staging and is a writer and designer for Designbx. She has worked in media and communications for environmental advocacy groups 350.org Australia and the Sierra Club in the US and continues to advocate for all things sustainable.  

The post Eco green design in the home appeared first on Designbx.

Tween-age interior design should be versatile, personal and timeless in nature. Fairy pictures and eggshell blues won’t make the cut. Think neutral, to give your child room to grow into their personality and style. At this awkward age, kids don’t want to be seen or treated like babies, in fact they want to be treated like an adult (although they are far off the adult stage). The interior design of your child’s room should be something they are proud to show their friends and to capture this style. Follow our top tips for a tween-agers dream room.

1. Monochromatic backdrop

It might be time to paint over those baby pink coloured walls. Instead of painting the room numerous times over the years, go for a white or neutral background to prepare the room for change. A monochromatic backdrop allows colour to pop and a blank canvas to change the feel and look of the room easily and without mess. Neutral colours adapt to any style or colour of accessories and artwork so it’s a win-win.

Image source

2. Express yourself

Ask your tween what interests them the most and try to incorporate this in temporary designs they can change as they grow. DIY canvas art is a great way to get their creativity flowing and better yet, they can paint over it again when they grow tired of the design. Instead of hanging multiple canvases, you could make the wall into the artwork. Chalk paint is hugely popular these days and allows kids to express themselves with colours and drawings.

Wall decals are also a great inexpensive investment, that can be easily removed when your kid grows out of the style.

Image source

3. Bright bedsheets

Being young is a colourful and adventurous part of life. Make sure their room isn’t monochromatic or embracing neutral tones just yet. Go crazy with bold and colourful linen that creates a changeable statement piece for the centre of the room. Your child may be growing up but there’s still an adventurous spirit in them that longs for exciting colours and patterns. Employ texture, colour and pattern into cushions also, to create an extra buzz in a small bedroom design.

Image source

4. Statement shelves

Let your kids express their styles without ruining the walls in the process. Install some shelves to house their collections, sports memorabilia, books and favourite items. Try framing favourite images or posters instead of sticking them to the walls. They aren’t teenagers yet, so those plain square bookshelves may get groaned at. Mix it up by getting creative with bookshelves. Use different shapes, colours and styles to capture your kid’s attention.

Image source

5. Ditch the desk

Most tweens think they’ll need a desk for their future studies and endeavours. The bedroom should be kept as a place to retreat, relax and hang out with friends. Try to keep the desk in the study or living space and create a space that your tween will look forward to come home to. Replace the space with a pull-out couch or bean bags for when friends come over. Make the space inviting with cushions, rugs and colourful accessories. If there isn’t space for a hang out area, try a low to the floor bed.

Image source

6. Swell into storage

They’ll be needing more space to store their growing wardrobes and collections…and to hide mess! Storage should be unsurpassed so invest in timeless furniture pieces such as a tallboy or install a practical built-in wardrobe that’ll see them through to their young adult life. Try using seagrass baskets for blankets and toys, that will last throughout time. Also consider a proper wardrobe fit out. Drawers, hanging, space, shoe racks, they are going to need more of everything in a small bedroom space.

Image source

7. Privacy for the pirates

As your child grows, their longing for privacy will increase. They want to feel as though their every move isn’t being watched and that they have the freedom to live their own life. Even though it is never a good sign when the kids are quiet, sometimes they simply want room to grow up. Placing veils around the bed, dividing the room with curtains or placing a hang out tent in the room, will give your child a sense of security and freedom.

Every child goes through the awkward stage, so make it easy by making the interior design suit their tween needs and take advantage of the last years left before the teenagers era.

The post Tween-age dream appeared first on Designbx.

But what about the more immediate environment? And if home is where the heart is, can you confidently say that your heart is healthy? Considering it’s a key contributor to the wellbeing of our families, surely it should have the benefit of the holistic approach we apply to our bodies. Can we truly be 100% physically and mentally fit without a healthy home?

From colours and shapes to music and textures, your interiors are constantly affecting the health and mood of your family. Rather than focusing on obvious aesthetic considerations that usually only have visual appeal, every sense needs to be addressed when you choose fittings, furniture and decorations.

1. Touch

This sense is a huge contributor to comfort. While it may not have the aesthetic pop of sight and sound, it’s the sense that must be respected if we’re to feel at ease. Scratchy, abrasive, stifling or rigid items are a roadblock for all others senses. When you physically touch an item in your home, does it soothe or aggravate you?

Imagine the touch of a cool tile on a hot day or the plush pile of a rug between your toes as you jump out of bed. Hardy wooden kitchen bench tops feel organic and durable while sleek marble bathroom counters are super hygienic, easy to clean and look luxe. Don’t forget the elements that determine temperature: a sea breeze, fans, heated floors or toilet seats, and electric blankets.

Woolly blankets are a kid’s favourite while soft and hygienic bamboo sheets are rising in popularity. As for velvet sofas, once you sink into their soft, snuggly warmth, it may be difficult stay awake during your next movie marathon.

Image reference

Image reference

2. Sight

We process an incredible amount of data with our eyes, and a large portion of the 300-400 nerve impulses we fire per second are triggered by our sense of sight. Colours, hues, and brightness are processed as fast as one thousandth of a second.

In our homes, we not only need to stimulate and comfort our families with visual elements but also need to provide light conducive to the processing power of what is arguably the hardest working of the senses. The light itself can become a feature, such as natural sunshine in a bedroom as we wake, as opposed to electronic light—all those gadgets designed to grab our attention—that are unhealthy distractions in a room designed for rest.

Psychologists have long maintained that each colour in the spectrum has positive and adverse effects, depending on an environment’s purpose. Colours can motivate, comfort and inspire while various finishes like wallpaper, gloss wall paint and satin flooring can alter and enhance the perception of each colour.

Shapes tap into your individual personality and should fit your style and functional needs. Are you a geometric or sinuous shape person?

Ensure your eyes can breathe by creating a space that is calm to the eye. Bolder choices must be considered carefully because each member of your family will perceive vision differently; so negative space, or the ‘less is more’ approach, often works for most.

Image reference

Image reference

3. Sound

Hearing is another underrated sense for healthy living when people consider interiors. Often the only time hearing is carefully considered is when we’re trying to keep the rest of the world out (construction noise is the curse of the DIY generation) but the right sounds can be as calming as gentle colours or luxurious textures.

Terminally ill patients in Australia were found to have less anxiety, pain and drowsiness after having a single music therapy session compared to those who did not listen to music (study published in the May 2008 Journal of Palliative Medicine). Premature babies listening to two hours of recorded Mozart each week had lowered heart rates and more sleep, according to researchers at Newyork Presbyterian Hospital and Weill Cornell Medical Center in New York.

This is a sense that falls somewhere between touch and sight, being critical to comfort while open to a wide array of stimulus and, as we all know, it’s an incredibly personal and relies heavily on each individual’s perception. One person’s aural heaven is another’s hell. There are many design elements using sound that can create a more tranquil, focused and relaxed space.  

You can apply music in the same way we use negative space or inoffensive colours that appeal to the whole family’s senses. A melody resonates deep in our soul and can provide a moment of reflection where all problems disappear. It often transports you back in time to a memory, action or thought. It’s the ultimate time machine for the mind.  

Wind chimes offer a subtle sound that comes from nature’s movements, making its subtle tones calming and hypnotising, while trickling and flowing water features brings calm. They resonate with birth and times of peace.  

When it comes to sound, don’t underestimate people power. Open plan living allows us to hear the sounds of others in the home. Children laughing, dogs playing, friends and family socialising…these are all familiar and calming sounds. These noises make a space feel filled and utilised, like they serve a purpose.

Image reference

4. Smell

Depending whether we smell an odour, stench or fragrance, we may thank or curse our olfactory nerves, but there’s no doubt stimulation of this sense can dramatically affect moods. Fragrances leave an incredibly deep memory imprint, and decades after appreciating a smell, catching a whiff of it in the air can send our minds rushing back to a historic moment in our lives.

Unlike the other senses, we physically consume odours, so not only can they be designed to have a distinct psychological effect but can also physically heal us. Candles, oil burners and vaporisers are effective ways to help your family breathe in healing scents for healthy living.

Use essential oils to promote wellbeing. Place a Eucalyptus oil-filled tissue in the dryer with your clothes and they’ll come out smelling fresh and clean. Lavender on a pillow at night promotes deep sleep. A drop of tea tree oil in the toilet helps keep odours at bay and is a natural antiseptic.

Remember that not all smells are heroes, so keep the villains at bay with air purification. Plants purify, promote happiness and heal so make sure you have plenty of greenery and flowers around your home. Like cooking, they’re an incredibly effective way to evoke memories or bring a sense of familiarity.

So next time you defend mother nature or roll out your yoga mat, remember there’s a critical element that separates humans and the earth. When designing your home’s interiors, it might be time to come to your senses.

This guide was first published for OH! Magazine: https://joom.ag/yoUQ

The post Healthy living – interior design insights appeared first on Designbx.

– Bright direct light (full sun)

– Bright indirect light (partial shade)

– Medium indirect light

– Low indirect light

Here’s our top picks (and some handy care tips) for indoor plants and where they should be placed.

Image reference

1. Living room

The living room is the most lively room in the house (as the name suggests). This is the room that both friends and family are going to see and use the most so it’s a good idea to place some larger plants in this area. Place plants on a side table next to the couch or TV unit or on the coffee table. Rubber tree and bird of paradise plants are perfect for a splash of greenery, but if you’re after something with a little more colour, opt for philodendron, begonias and succulents.

Our top picks

– Bird of Paradise – full sun, water weekly, increase if light increases

– Rubber tree – Low light to full sun, water weekly

– Philodendron – bright to low indirect light, water weekly

– Begonia – Low to full sun

– Succulents – Bright direct light, water monthly

– Fiddle Leaf Fig – Moderate to bright indirect light, regular watering

Image reference

2. Kitchen

Plants in the kitchen are not only aesthetically pleasing but can also be functional. Consider potting herbs in small terracotta pots and placing them on the window seal. This makes cooking easy as you can simply grab a few leaves to sprinkle over your meat. The kitchen is often humid due to hot cooking appliances and therefore plants need to be able to withstand high temperatures. Want to create the ideal herb garden? Check out our herb garden tips and tricks.

Our top picks

– Ferns – moderate to low indirect light, water weekly, high humidity

– Air plants – bright to moderate indirect light, daily spraying

– Herbs – full sun, water when dry (every few days)

Image reference

Image reference

3. Bedroom

The bedroom is a place to go to forget the stresses of the day and relax with a cup of tea and book. Don’t go over the top with plants in your master bedroom design, unless of course you can’t get enough of them. Generally one to two plants is plenty. Lower maintenance plants are a good choice as the last thing you want to be doing before bed is running around watering several plants. Opt for plants that are known for purifying air such as Ivy that was listed in NASA’s top air purifying plants.

Our top picks

– Snake plant – bright to low indirect light, water monthly

– Spider plant – moderate indirect light, water weekly

– Ivy – moderate indirect light, high humidity

Image reference

Image reference

4. Bathroom

The bathroom has the most diverse environment out of any room. It goes from cold to hot and humid in just a few minutes. Tropical plants last best in these environments. They don’t need a tonne of light and can withstand humidity and high temperatures. Due to the low light in most bathrooms, use fluorescent lights as they produce the wavelength plants need. If you don’t have much space, consider hanging plants in glass terrariums or pots.

Our top picks

– Aloe vera – no need to water due to humidity, place near a window if possible

– Cast iron plant – low light, high humidity

– Ivy – moderate indirect light, high humidity

Image reference

Image reference

5. Others

Perhaps you want some greenery in the entrance hallway or in the home office. Vertical plants not only save space but they can hold a variety of plants. You can easily create a DIY wall planter out of steel mesh, leather or wood to embrace that industrial interior design style. Hanging plants also save space and are low maintenance. Try glass hanging terrariums with succulents or cacti.

Image reference

If you need a hand integrating the best indoor plants into your interior design online, our professional designers can add some green magic into your next home design.   

The post A guide to choosing the best Indoor Plants, by room 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.

Designbx

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

Designbx

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 called Glamping (of course) and now that Aussies are being swept up by the interior design revolution, it’s time to extend that style to mobile homes. We’re about to make our campers so cool, the teenagers will be begging to hit the road this summer. They may even forget to bring their phones and game consoles (okay, maybe that’s a bit unrealistic).

Let’s check out some camper tips that will make grey-stubbled jaws drop when you roll into your favourite beachside trailer park this summer.

1. Cosy seating and lush Manchester

Let’s not get too literal about this whole ‘camping’ thing. Glamping requires a whole new mindset. First we’re laying down a tarp, so our ridiculously huge picnic rug won’t get wet. Our outdoor area will have all the comforts of home during its evening mode, thanks to beanbags and blow-up couches. Your trailer park neighbours will be sitting on their fold-up canvas chairs, green with envy as you inflate your luxurious plastic lounge.

When it comes time to bed down for the evening, we’re doing it in style. We’re basically bringing everything from the bedroom with us, except the furniture. Instead of sleeping bags, let’s cover our rug with throw blankets and cushions, and snuggle up in our favourite dooners. The great thing about our tarp and rug set-up is how easy they are to sweep and clean in the morning.

2. Find two trees and get into the swing of camping

We’re talking about hammocks. Hammocks are an intriguing invention because you might wonder what all the fuss is about…until you try it for the first time. Yes, it may be a little difficult to mount your first hammock, but it’s a lot harder to escape. That’s because they’re so relaxing, you never want to move again, except for the gentle swaying motion that makes you regress to early childhood.

For a cheaper option you can get a tarp from your local Bunnings, but hammocks aren’t expensive. And the great thing about this mobile form of furniture, which just happens to be the most relaxing thing on the planet, is that you simply unhook it and roll it up into the size of a yoga mat. Easy to store and hang up at your next location. If you’ve never hammocked before, nothing could possibly come more highly recommended.

3. Entertainment – Glamping-style

Glamping modernises the camping experience, so I’m afraid fans of eye-spy and Kumbaya singalongs around the camp fire may be disappointed. Just because we’re in the bush doesn’t mean we can’t have fun. We’re bringing speakers, a laptop, a white drop-sheet and a projector. It’s time to set up an outdoor cinema under the stars.

Surprisingly, Australia’s natural wildlife seldom gets to see Hollywood blockbusters, so think of it as giving a little back to nature. Just make sure your laptop is loaded with plenty of choices for the whole family, and don’t forget your charger or there will be tears.

4. Make it rain!

We Glampers like to be surrounded by nature but we have to draw the line somewhere. For instance, we don’t do insects. It’s simply unacceptable to be bitten by mosquitos. We also make sure we’re maintaining an urban level of hygiene, so those communal bathrooms? Na-uh. That’s not happening.

We’ll be investing in an ensuite tent and a cheap shower. Think of it as a slightly scaled-down version of your actual home. We’ll even be bringing solar-powered garden lights to make sure we can easily navigate between the tent and shower. Just because we’re outdoors doesn’t mean we’re ‘roughing it’.

5. Wine and dine, not whine and dine

We’re bringing most of the kitchen with us, including pre-cooked meals. That’s why a good camping fridge/freezer is essential. While our camping neighbours are staring disconsolately at a scorched marshmallow hanging from the end of a twig, or shovelling baked beans from metal bowl, we’ll be enjoying a fine roast, perhaps with a smooth, sweet Merlot. Wine-not?

There are a whole range of amazing portable ovens and of course, the trusty gas stove tops which give you the freedom to show off your culinary skills. There’s not much you can’t do with two hot plates, some veal, maybe a few truffles…okay we’ve gone too far.

When it comes to the dining setting, bring along a couple of citronella plants. Not only do they add a lovely homey feel, but it’s also the closest thing to kryptonite for mosquitos.

The key to effective Glamping

Glamping isn’t just about avoiding nature while being surrounded by it; it’s also about styling your camper van. This summer we expect to see a bit of creativity out there on the road. We’re looking forward to Scandi-vans, Art-deco-trailers, Boho RVs and Luxe tents. Bring a little flair and style to the highways and bushlands this summer. Join the Glamper revolution.

Inspiring van and caravan conversions:

1. Retro

Image Source

2. Scandi

3. Mountain wood

Image Source

4. Nautical

Image Source

5. Bohemian

Image Source

The post Top tips to get Glamping! appeared first on Designbx.