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.

We also partner with art curators across many of our projects to ensure we have another expert across the vision. Often clients are really unsure of what they like, or we find ourselves navigating multiple views when it comes to art – so having another professional opinion in the mix is really helpful for both us and our clients to make the right decision.
Designbx’s Refresh package gives you access to an expert Interior Designer reviewing your home, existing furniture and architecture to curate multiple options that will enhance your room.

We are passionate about art here at Designbx and what it brings to a space. As part of your Refresh Package we can provide:

• A personally curated collection.
• Access to trade savings.
• Access to an array of artist’s and brands.
• Design a custom brief for a specific artist
• A streamlined process which includes sourcing, coordination and installation

We love art and love helping add those treasured items into homes across Australia.
How are your walls looking? White, bare, nothing works together, struggling to find art that works for everyone in the home. Let us take the guesswork out of your art selection headaches. For $199 per room your Room could go from plain Jane to the talk of the town…

The post How to give your home “new life” with artwork appeared first on Designbx.

Cue Designbx! Just because you’re feeling rushed to get your sleeping arrangements sorted, it doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice on quality, function or the aesthetic of your space to squeeze everyone in.
One of the key items we are always asked about is sofa beds. Because they range so vastly in price, size and quality, cleverly integrating them into your homes layout is the key in choosing the right one.

With Designbx’s Refresh package at $199 per room, we can help you plan for those extra guests by taking the pain out of some of the guessing work. Or, if you decide you want to finally finish off any of those “too hard basket” rooms that might just need some minor TLC, like artworks or soft furnishings, this package has you covered!
We know most of our clients are run off their feet at this time of year and in the lead up to Christmas, so why not take advantage of our exclusive trade discounts just in time for the holiday season with our complimentary Personal Shopper as a part of your package.

Below are 7 of our faves under $2,000, and why we think they’re winners:

The Civic Ottoman from Oz Design

A versatile Ottoman is the perfect seating addition for almost any room. The Civic Ottoman will also transform into a comfy double bed and is available in a range of different colour and fabric options.

The Agnes Ottoman Sofabed from Oz Design
We all forget about the popular trundle bed for the kids room – but this fun Ottoman which also converts to a single bed will double as practical seating in the reading nook when not being used as a bed.

The Vermont Sofa bed from Matt Blatt
This retro fold-down sofa bed can be set up in under a minute! Less clunkier than the traditional sofa bed, the arms act as a great pillow rest and style isn’t compromised with this funky every-day sofa.

The Rovia Sofa bed from Matt Blatt

An armless sofa is a great option if you are space-poor. It’s also a great design solution for awkward nooks or under a window bay as a window seat. The lush velvet fabric is also durable – this great piece can go anywhere!

The Reisel Sofabed from Matt Blatt
This brings back a few memories of the futon era! Still such a great design for a more casual or low ceiling rooms. A playful design that’s also great in TV rooms.

The Bayview Chaise sofa bed from Zanui

With this brilliantly designed Sofa, you can actually gain three beds from one sofa! Great for the kids lounge or play area with a durable synthetic fabric.

The Kent sofa bed from Oz Design

Luxury, comfort and a queen size mattress!! This is for one of those special guests. An array of colours and fabrics available to match your homes style, the Kent provides a beautiful everyday sofa option converting to a beautiful bed.

The post Top 7 Sofa beds – Time to get ready for those extra guests! appeared first on Designbx.

What makes Kylie feel at home

1. Jewellery. The bigger, the bolder, the better. I always lose expensive jewellery so this using more affordable ‘on trend’ accessories really helps my wallet! I love that I can change a whole outfit or look simply by adding some beautiful vibrant touches by way of jewellery. And while I may not have the ‘body shape’ for designer fashion, I can so easily add my unique touch with some big leopard earrings!
2. Shoes. High heels always make me feel great, and fit! The right shoes can make or break an outfit for me. Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for comfortable flats as much as the next gal, but a pair of power heels can give you an instant shot of confidence.
3. Eyebrows and hair. You just can’t have a good day with one and not the other. I was born in the 80s with a mop of curly strawberry blonde hair, and had I been in my prime partying years I would have been living the dream. Instead I’m happy if I can just get a brush through my locks most days – that is a good hair day for me!
4. Furnishings. I absolutely love natural raw textures like linen, leather and timber. They are home to me. Growing up in New Zealand I really do appreciate the natural textures that are reminiscent of the beautiful scenery I was surrounded by growing up. It’s nostalgic for me, and creating a sense of nostalgia is such a powerful design tool.
5. TV and movies. Laughing out loud is my style. My husband and I formed our relationship on the basis of our love for TV and films from the often cringe-worthy era of the 80s. Anyone reading this who knows us well will be having a laugh-out-loud moment. We are a couple of dags who were made for each other!
6. Music. My go to is anything that has a story and makes me feel something. I’m pretty eclectic with my music taste pre-2000, but something about the stories told through music from the earlier generations – where people had to write letters and express their love in different ways – just gets me. I’m a hopeless romantic at heart and mostly end up crying to songs in the car.
7. Holiday destinations. I’m more of a “do it less often, but do it right” kind of girl. Boutique locations with lots of character and unique things to look at. It’s nice to dream! The memories made on holidays with loved ones – you just can’t buy that feeling.
8. Having a tidy desk. I’m really not sure if this is a style thing, but organisation is key to getting sh*t done for me. If I feel surrounded by mess and chaos, that’s how my day will end up.
9. Showing up on time. This is definitely a work in progress, but being on time is super stylish in my eyes. I am renowned for being late, which I’m working on – my tardiness goes against every other personality trait I have, so people are always surprised!
10. Friends and family. Authentic, true to themselves and down-to-earth… that’s my style and why I adore my friends and family. It does sound a bit cliché, but it’s so important to surround yourself with people you love to spend time with and who make you feel empowered and positive. We’re all so time poor that we need to be super conscious about who we spend our spare time with, and I choose to spend mine with positive and loving people.

How Kerena adds some personality and pizazz to her everyday

1. Photographs. I have them absolutely everywhere because they remind me of all the special moments and priceless people in my life.
2. Handbags and shoes. These are a huge weakness of mine. They are those finishing touches that just ooze personal style. My absolute favourite bag is the glorious Valentino I splurged on during a trip to New York to celebrate a dear friend’s 40th birthday. Every time I pick it up I’m reminded of the amazing time we had together – some possessions just have a way of bringing back precious memories. Similarly, but at the other end of the spectrum, is the $5 vintage leather bag I uncovered at Vinnies about 15 years ago. I cost me next-to-nothing but has accompanied me on so many adventures. My favourite shoes for comfort are my Superga platform joggers; for a bit of style punch I always reach for my suede orange tassel heels; and for an in-between occasion it’s always the Valentino rockstudded flats. I could go on….
3. Vaporisors. I have two in the house and I always have essential oils steaming away. My favourite scents at the moment are from Anjali – “Lady Indira” & “Lemon Myrtle”. Familiar and beautiful aromas are such an underrated element of design – they inspire memories, emotions and in my case create a sense of calm in the home.
4. Fashion. I have a very eclectic fashion sense – forever torn between my inner Cairns hippie heart; my unrequited rockstar dreams; the Northern Beaches casual surf chick; and a bit of a show-pony glitter fetish! Some of my favourite brands are Chasing Unicorns, Stevie May, Ministry of Style, Sass & Bide, Deus Ex Machina, Bali Trader (I love their custom design boots), Bec and Bridge… again, I could go on!
5. Flowers and plants. I always need one or both of these elements in and around my space; home, office, even my car (I place a fresh lavender sprig from the garden every morning in the air vents to help calm us all during the whirlwind of school drop offs). I have many plants in our family home and succulents at the office, as they’re hardy enough to survive when we’re out on shoots and working with clients.
6. Artwork. Studying art originally, I have a real appreciation for people who delve into such raw self-expression. I’ve collected art for as long as I can remember; street art as I backpacked around the world, and slowly building a collection of artists that I have admired for years. I call them my ‘Retirement Fund’… Let’s be honest, it’s never really going to fund my latter years, but it helps ease my conscience! I’m especially partial to photographic art.
7. Music. From the moment my head leaves the pillow to the moment it hits it again, I have music around me. I stopped TV with the children when they were young so it has filled a very big gap. It can turn any of our moods around in second and we all have a favourite tune, style and song that pulls us out of a funk and has us giggling in seconds. I couldn’t possibly make a top list of my favourite tunes, because again, my choices are eclectic – from Dolly Parton (Jolene), to Morcheeba (World Looking In), to Kings of Leon (Sex on Fire).
8. Food and drink. I just LOVE eating, drinking and entertaining! I’m a total foodie and am also partial to a marrying vino. I’m as white, freckled and stereotypically Aussie as they come, but my taste buds are very European.
9. Friends and family. I have lived away from my family since I was 16. And although they have often been far away, they hold such a precious piece of my heart. Having this distance from my relatives has in many ways meant my friends have become my family, and boy do I have a fabulous bunch around me! I have been so blessed to meet and build such gorgeous and inspiring friendships over my life, and I am forever grateful and will do anything to show love and support to those around me.
10. Babies. Mine and everyone else’s! I always wanted to be a mum – I was a total baby snatcher from as early as I can remember, and still am. By 10 years of age I was the local babysitter and could have four or more children in my care on any one night. I was in heaven! I am now a mum to two gorgeous little humans, and despite all the confronting moments it brings it is truly the most rewarding part of my life and every day. Amelia is eight and Hugo is five. There isn’t a day goes by when we don’t laugh, sing, banter and try each others’ patience. But mostly we just love each other with such depth that becoming a mum has been a soul-changing chapter of my life.

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Colour, lighting and layout are criminally overlooked devices that every skilled interior designer uses effectively to convey an atmosphere of sophistication and excess. Let’s highlight five brilliant ways to give your rooms an air of extravagance with practical luxe interior design without maxing out your credit card.

1. Dark and mysterious

The experts always tell you to use white if you want to open up a space and make any room seem larger, but is the appearance of size your primary concern? Maybe intimacy is what you’re after, and sophisticated spaces are always designed with comfort in mind. So why not break away from the norm and opt for a more daring colour scheme?

Changing the upholstery or wall colour to a dark-hued tone will instantly add richness. Burgundy and midnight blue are two stylish tones guaranteed to wow your housemates and guests. Even black, when used sparingly, can give interiors different dimensions, adding an area of seclusion without sacrificing space. The best part about darker colours is the way they make your existing belongings pop.

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2. Restyle the walls

What you decide to place on your walls goes a long way toward creating an ornate visual statement. Let’s change those old photo frames and experiment with their placement to create a feature wall that instantly attracts the eye. 

The paradox of old, weathered wall hangings can make an intense statement in an intimate environment. Large prints of classic artworks, vintage posters, or block-colour artworks will look at home in your lush space. Antique shutters, doors and ladders against walls create simple, rustic hangings.

Care to show off your creativity? For the bathroom or bedroom, collect patterned tiles or old plates and get artistic by arranging an eclectic mix to place on walls.

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3. Reflect your style

We love used mirrors. After all, as long as the mirror itself is intact (and you’re not buying seven years bad luck), a second hand, naturally aged frame has the type of character that tells a story. Try your local community second-hand sales to find an item with that rustic, antique look.

If you’re not happy with quality of the frame, restyle it using fabric from your local op-shop or textiles store. Alternatively if you find a gorgeous frame with a tainted mirror, you can ‘fake it till you make it’ by spraying the glass with ‘mirror effect’ spray paint.

If you’re after something a little more sleek and clean, simple-framed oversized mirrors don’t cost an arm and a leg nowadays. And what an incredible statement they make, especially in a darker room where a large reflective surface can help you retain a spacious feel and practical luxe design. 

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4. Prints and patterns

Bargain prints and patterns can be found in any department store or homewares retailer. Play around with upholstery designs, wall hangings and the shapes of homewares to create unique textures and vivid designs. Don’t forget to pay attention to the details to create the ideal luxe by design room.

For easy artworks, cover old canvases with fabric and you can even add your own touch by painting over the top. Macramé wall hangings are as simple as buying rope and a wooden pole to hang it from. All you need then is to watch DIY macramé videos on YouTube to master the art.

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5. Throw away the old

The biggest change in a home can be the simplest of objects. Throw cushions, rugs and linen can make a striking change to how each room looks. Try in-season colours and for a well needed facelift, make sure you steer away from the tones and patterns you used previously.

Make your own brand-new luxe by design cushion covers by getting discount fabrics and sewing them in a simple square or rectangle. The advantage to DIY facelifting is you can incorporate the same fabric pattern into everything from cushions to wall art to the top of your table.

To give a table top a new lease on life, carefully place a layer of your favourite fabric or arrange a collection of pictures on the coffee table. Place a glass table top as the final layer and hey presto! Your old table becomes brand new.

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Using these five steps is a lot more fun than splurging on one massive feature item. Not only that; it’s also a way of adding your signature style to rooms while helping you develop a better understanding of the relationship between colour, materials and patterns.

Before you buy that $10,000 sofa, it’s worth experimenting with these techniques. Try to make a visual statement with practical luxe design …without crying over your next bank statement!

The post Luxe by design – how to go luxe without the bucks 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.

There are many flavours of a Country style, with cultural elements according to the Geography (e.g. French country, American country, English country). With its rustic yet traditional touches, each Country style will draw from the culture it is used in. In large this style is warm and inviting. Open space is not considered important. It’s more about oversized robust furniture, walls adorned with memorabilia, artwork and decorative objects. The Country style displays traditional overtones such as comfortable seating, striped fabrics, rustic timbers and warm tones. Robust florals, gingham and plaid bring a quintessential country look. 

1. Top tip

With each year your Country style will flourish. Your trinkets, treasures and beloved belongings will adorn walls, cabinets, bookshelves, oversized trunks and baskets. The layer of time brings richness.

2. Traits

The key to country interior’s is to stay in touch with natural and raw materials that evoke a sense of cosiness. For example, rustic interior design elements, indoor plants, aged metal, cotton and linen striped, floral, plaid fabrics, oversized, comfort, exposed stone, timber beams, glass fronted cupboards, ceramics, press metal.

3. Designers/artists

Those who dabble in traditional and modern variations of country style interior design range from Michael Thonet, Justin Bishop, James Treble, Maria Speake, Lynda Kerry and Rob Mills. 

4. Pantone colours

5. Brands that fit

Bianca Lorenne, Eco Outdoor, Casamia, La Maison, Wallrocks, Orient house, Christophe Living, Horgans, Designers Guild, Cadry’s, George Smith, One World Collection, Impakt Emporium, Cotswold Furniture, Laura Ashley, RM Williams, Colourbond, Lucca Antiques.

6. Fragrance or tune

Sniff Soy Candle-Cashmere. Rich yet light.

You don’t need to live on a farm to embrace the country charm. The Country style is all about being grateful for what you have and showing it off. The perfect country home embraces comfort and traditional interior design. Whether it is a beautiful fireplace or a soft carpet, the Country style is timeless and radiates warmth. 

The post Country style guide appeared first on Designbx.

The Luxe style speaks to us of precious metals, reflective surfaces, exotic timber, velvet and silk. It spells elegance. You’re individual and imaginative, and attention to detail is key, with daring colour palettes, extreme scale, sexy and lavish fabrics creating an intriguing and sumptuous space. Luxe interior design pulls from the sophistication and refinement of the Hollywood regency era. It draws design elements from around the globe and has brought ornamentation back into homes in a modern way.

1. Top tip for Luxe style

Our top tip to creating the perfect Luxe style is to embrace the mirror (it reflects light and adds depth to a room) and ensure the trim is a lustrous metallic to give sophistication and presence.

2. Traits 

There are many common traits that complement the Luxe style including guild, mirror, glass, velvet, buttoning, rose tint, marble, gold, crystal, colour glass, wallpaper, perspex, fur, animal print, granite, chandeliers, vintage, high gloss, wallpaper, metallic. 

Most of the above traits can be used as focal points in a room. For instance, an oversized piece of art can give your space a ‘wow’ factor. 

3. Designers/Artists

Luxe fans love these household names: David Hicks, Greg Natale, Kelly Wearstler, Suzanne Kasler, Luis La Pegna, Philippe Starck, Tom Ford.

4. Pantone colours

5. Brands that fit

Luxe style brands: Café Lightning, Boyd Blue, Café Culture & Insitu, Loui Vuitton, Style Factory International.

Luxe style is all about the finer details in life. With its elegance and extravagant finishings, Luxe can make your home feel and look like a million bucks! 

The post Luxe style guide appeared first on Designbx.

The unexpected touches like an oversized gilded mirror sat with geo-shaped furniture is eclecticism at its finest. Hollywood charm is present in subtle overtones – overall a chic, witty, and worldly affair.

1. Top tip

Be brave, adventurous and keep your curious manner. Opposites in every form attract and create.

2. Traits

Juxtaposition, pattern, art, wallpaper, gold trims, detail, oversized rugs, marble, mirror, glass.

3. Designers/Artists

Waldo Fernandez, Eric Cohler, Joe Nahem, Suzanne Kasler,  Melanie Turner, Greg Natale, Abigail Ahern, Christopher Boots, Patricia Urquiola, Jean Royere, Ryan Corban, Shareen Joel.

4. Pantone Colours

5. Brands that fit

Johnathon Adler, Oly, Black Spiro, West Elm,  Bromley & Co., Pure & General, Contents ID, Tom Dixon, Florence Broadhurst, Cai-light.

6. A perfect day

You slip into your favourite cocktail dress, ready to meet and greet your guest. Canapes, bubbles and 70s-inspired music playing as you circle the room, laughing and sharing in the moments that bring joy.

7. Fragrance

Jonathon Adler-Pop Candle (cucumber). Invigorating.

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Modern Eclectic interior design is for those who love splashes of modern interior design, Boho interior design, and traditional interior design elements in the home to make up an exciting and vibrant look that will pass the test of time. 

The post Modern Eclectic style guide appeared first on Designbx.

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1. Top tip

Mood and detail lighting is key. Hanging lights can help add that urban and rustic. Offset pendants with freestanding and wall mounted designs.

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2. Traits

Industrial style is all about exposed architecture, rustic finishes, aged timbers, industrial metals, natural fabrics, leather (worn and aged), graffiti, wood panelling concrete and stainless steel.

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3. Designers/Artists

Nexus Designers, Mim Design, Bernard Albin, Banksy.

4. Pantone colours

5. Brands that fit

Holy funk Co., Canal Side interiors, Timothy Oulton, Domayne Furniture, Loft Furniture, The Industrial Revolution, Pony Rider, Orson & Blake, Sagitine.

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6. A perfect day

A rooftop terrace together with friends and family, Boules being played on a turf strip down the entry hallway, a huge paella steaming on the cooker, drinks chilling in the bath and Grandad tuning your Indian Chieftain motorcycle in the garage. Noise, laughter and social style.

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7. Fragrance

Tom Dixon-London Candle inspired by the aroma of red bricks, London parks, nettles and the salt of the Thames.

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The industrial style look can add a raw and sleek look to home and even commercial spaces. With its use of steels, wood and other raw materials, it can be a stylish sustainable design for any space.  

The post Industrial style guide appeared first on Designbx.