Easy tips to decorate your mantelpiece

Stag Wall Art

Stag Wall Art Canvas Painting in Living Room

The fire and mantelpiece make an obvious focal point for a room but that doesn’t mean decorating and accessorising it has to be ‘obvious’ too. Opt for something different, modern or quirky, as well as your own take on traditional mantelpiece adornments.

Breath Taking Art Work

Art work with an impact but a timeless appeal is much coveted and sought after. The mantelpiece is the ideal location for such a piece of exquisite art. Anything too quirky or outlandish can have a short shelf life but Ant Fox’s Stag canvas wall art is a delight to behold. Either fix to the wall above the mantel or enjoy it propped against the wall, with a carefully positioned garland of evergreen leaves or lights at the base.

Mirror

The bigger the better and with a superbly ornate, detailed frame, the mirror-above-the-mantelpiece will be a style and accessory of which we will never tire.

Colette Reclaimed Wood Mirror

There are some exquisite pieces that will give the mantelpiece the emphasis it deserves. How about the arched Colette reclaimed wood framed mirror? Grand without over-the-top pizzazz, it would either hang or lean beautifully on any mantelpiece. As a rustic mirror, it ticks so many boxes but there are other styles that can pull the spotlight to the fireplace, so to speak.

Or why not try a striking geometric appeal of an art deco mirror? Although perfect for any room or hallway, the addition of such an iconic shape, an unashamed nod to the art deco era, must surely mean that the best place for it must be above the mantelpiece?

The Glow of…

… Candles

It is, of course, a traditional and harmonious marriage between the candle and the mantelpiece. Back in years gone by, before the convenience of electric light, the fire and the candle was the source of night time light. It made sense to keep the flickering candle flame from harm’s way on the mantelpiece and thus, the tradition of candles on mantelpieces remains.

Highlander Wall Art Canvas

Statuesque pillar candle holders are an ideal addition, adding romance to the room. Use alongside artwork to enhance it and with a mantelpiece mirror too so that the dancing glow is reflected in the room.

… Lights

If candles are not your thing, you could always opt for the gentle flight of small ‘fairy’ lights. The small lights weaved into these lanterns are so very pretty but if you feel you want something more, why not opt for a lamp at either end of the mantelpiece? We love the idea of ringing the changes with modern table lamps, with vibrant colour or a modern shape that adds something extra to the room.

Wire Weave Fairy Light

Whatever you choose to add to your mantelpiece, it is sure to dazzle and look exquisite. After all, you want to draw attention and add to it with pieces that are planned and placed with design, whether that is a mirror or a piece of artwork, or a lamp or a candle.

What will you add to your mantelpiece?

How to style a Made in Britain dining table

Stanford Reclaimed Wood Dining Table

English Beam Reclaimed Wood Dining Table and Chairs

For many consumers, buying British designed and produced goods is their way of supporting the local and national economy. And this is the movement behind the Buy British Day on Saturday, October 3rd. And because it is the start of the festive shopping season, it is no wonder that many British retailers, designers and small businesses look to entice shoppers with festive gifts and accessories.

In our eyes, there is nothing better and more ‘British’ than the use of reclaimed wood in furniture and other accessories. And with the festive season on our doorstep, our thoughts have turned to Christmas dinner table. With a British designed and made dining table, complete with dining chairs and accessories, it is a beautiful sight and one your family and friends will admire.

But how do you create a stunning ‘made in Britain’ dining table?

The Dining Table

Rustic Inlay Reclaimed Wood Dining Table

It is the largest piece of furniture you will invest it and you will sit around it countless times. There will be times of merriment and mirth, and with reclaimed wood, it is a chance to add to its history and story with your own memories.

The most popular by far is the English Beam extendable reclaimed wood dining table. Made from reclaimed wood also means that it is unique and although it has a character of its own, it doesn’t limit your ideas or style. Finish the look with either leather dining chairs with their own unique appearance or opt for the opulence of fabric dining chairs.

Dress it – maintain the rustic charm with platters for protecting it against the heat of plates. Use candles in ornate holders with evergreen garlands of leaves around the centre of the table. Add droplets of sparkling ‘diamond’ shaped pieces to catch the flickering candle light.

If you want exquisite detail and the feel of artisan skills beneath your fingers, then reclaimed wood furniture is a must, and the Rustic Inlay reclaimed wood dining table is a firm favourite of ours too. In fact, this table, handcrafted in the UK is the Editor’s favourite. As rustic furniture goes, this is surely one of the best examples of what can be crafted with skills developed and honed over decades.

Dress it – take care when choosing dining chairs. They make look stunning and grand but wider chairs need more space at a dining table. If the chairs are forced to sit too close, trapped fingers ensue and no one wants that at the Christmas table.

And for the dinner?

Rough Sawn Stanford Reclaimed Wood Extendable Dining Table

If you want something a little different or one that suits the kitchen diner, then this rough sawn Stanford dining table is ideal. Popular because it is both extendable and made from reclaimed wood, its crossed legs also give it a feature.

There is something elegant about this chunky table. It looks sturdy and solid, and yet it has a gracefulness that makes it one of the most appealing dining tables we have. Unlike the other dining tables in our range, there is a height to this and that means investing in high dining chairs, almost like bar stools if you like. But, as you would have come to expect, our bar stools are far from ordinary.

They pack their own punch when it comes to style. But better still, with the right place settings and dining table accessories, the Stanford dining table offers both formal and relaxed dining experiences.

Rustic furniture is beautiful. Reclaimed wood has a romance of its own, so which dining table will you choose?

In the spotlight: essentials to add character to your hallway

Clockhouse Wooden Hallway Bench

Industrial Hallway Bench

The hallway is a unique space in any property. It is the part of your home that forms the important first impressions when guests call round. It is the small, but functional space that houses everything from shoes to coats, shopping bags and more.

Thus, function and style need to be an effortless fusion. It needs to be a welcoming space with a charm and warmth all its own and yet, it needs to be neutral so that it introduces the rest of the home.

You need detail in the hallway but not clutter. Your need colour but not darkness. You want brightness but nothing too stark.

We have the solutions…

Add Character Without Clutter

Console Table

Standford Industrial Reclaimed Wood Console Table

Traditionally, the hallway was the place where the telephone was located. Most homes had one telephone handset and one telephone point – and the hallway was it. As a result, the console table became the furniture item of choice. Today, the phone point can be located anywhere in the home and with different handset types too, there is no need for the telephone to be the sole occupant of the hallway.

But you still don’t have oodles of space to play with and thus, the slimline console table is still popular. A console table with drawers is perfect for storing car keys and house keys, for example. And we love the idea of reclaimed furniture, with its fine pedigree and history, now being the basis for the home’s broadband and Wi-Fi router.

If you want a more rustic appeal, choose a console table that is both longer and satisfyingly ‘chunkier’ in appearance, like a hallway table. To maximise space, keep a sense of openness about the design of the console table, especially if you don’t need shelving or drawers. The Maddox console table is fun and stylish, perfect for a table lamp to cast a pleasant glow in the hallway (and there are two finishes, both in the industrial furniture style, to choose from too!).

Mirror

Wall Mirror

It is almost compulsory to have a mirror in the hallway not only to reflect light but to also check you look the part before you walk into the important meeting you have scheduled. A mirror is ideal for adding character and detail too, like with the pretty shaped Lana mirror.

For simplicity, think round mirrors with narrower less imposing frames, especially important in a very small hallway. To make a statement, even the most decorative wall mirrors add character without clutter, like this Capella mirror with its wired, spider-web like frame.

Light

Embla Table Lamp

Of all the hallway decorating ideas, light is possibly the most important feature. As well as table lamps on console tables, the ambient light reflected by your choice of hallway mirror, don’t forget the hanging pendant light.

Practical, yet stylish, pendant lights allow for enough luminosity in the hallway without it being stark or overly bright. Gold coloured shades are beautiful, casting a delicious brassy glow about the space and glass pendant lights are beautiful too, casting more than a hint of luxury and decadence.

Tell us how you add character to your hallway?

What are the benefits of choosing a rug

Living Room Styled With Louis de Poortere Vintage Patchwork Rug

Louis de Poortere BoBohemian Tribe Grenada Cocktail Rug

Whilst hard wooden or tiled floors are beautiful to look at and have many benefits of their own, sometimes, a carpet or rug underfoot feels like a luxurious accessory. In the colder months, it feels so much nicer to step into a thick, warm material instead of a chilly floorboard. For those who are keen to keep some of their hard flooring visible and prefer not to choose a permanent solution to their chilly toes, a rug provides the perfect solution.

Rugs help to reduce dust

Louis de Poortere BoBohemian Tribe Vodka Rambar Rug

Rugs absorb and retain more dust than hard surfaces, meaning a reduction of visible dust in your home. Living room rugs, and indeed rugs for any room in the home, are easy to clean and a once a week vacuum should rid your rug of any dust accumulation. Most are tolerant of damp cloths and cleaning products should a spillage occur. The moveable nature of a rug means that it can be taken outside and shaken or beaten for a deeper clean.

Rugs are great for playing

Grey Twist New Zealand Wool Rug

If you have ever spent time on a hard floor playing with children you will know all too well the benefits of a rug. A cosy surface in a child’s bedroom is such a lovely addition both for them and for you. A wool rug like our Agnetha grey twist feels indulgent, is soft to touch and great for playing. Made from 100% New Zealand wool, these wool rugs have the additional benefit of being easy to maintain – a must where children are involved!

Rugs enhance acoustics

Louis de Poortere Vintage Patchwork Antwerp Red Rug

Soft furnishings absorb sounds and rugs are no exception. Resonance is reduced in an area with a rug and the bigger the rug, the greater the impact. This makes for a calmer, softer ambience and can be easily achieved by placing a rug underneath a dining room table or coffee table. A big Louis De Poortere rug is a perfect solution here. Available in a range of colours and patterns inspired by the Far East, this gorgeously eclectic collection is easy to blend into a range of interiors. Made from pure wool and cotton chenille, it feels beautiful as well as looking great.

Rugs are comfortable

Luxury Sexto White Sheepskin Rug

The bottom line is that a great quality rug feels luxurious underfoot and is a pleasure to walk on. Rugs are naturally warm and a lovely treat for your bare feet on a winter’s morning. Next to the bed is particularly indulgent. How about a large sheepskin rug like our luxury double white sheepskin which is naturally warm with a deep and fluffy feel as well as offering a touch of style and glamour to your room. Our reindeer rugs from Finland are also truly luxurious offering thick, sumptuous warmth as well as being individual and unique.

With so much to choose from, we can help you find a beautiful rug that is perfect for your home. Whether traditional rugs, contemporary rugs, simple or patterned rugs, you can be sure it will be a treat for your feet.

How to make your new room welcoming

New University Room

Moving House for University new RoomSeptember is the month that signals the arrival of autumn and change. Leaves change colour, plants and shrubs die back and the weather cools. But as well as nature’s changes, there are changes in life too.

All over the UK, children walk through the doors of their primary school for the first time, older children enter the hallowed corridors of their new secondary school and in Universities across the land, nervous fresher students are also starting a new life.

Making new friends, adjusting to adult life and a new routine, fresher students also find that their own two feet at the only things that steady them in this new world. They have to shop for food, cook, eat it and then tidy away. They have to manage money. They have to kit out their room so that they have a place to call home.

Your new room at university needs to be welcoming and practical. But how? We have the answers…

#1 The desk

Oldman Orange Industrial Reclaimed Wood Desk

You will spend hours hunched over your desk, beating on the keyboard of your laptop or PC to create essays and assignments. It is important that this is an ergonomic space. Thus, an Oldman reclaimed wood desk made to measure for you, with a chair that supports your back and encourages a healthy seating position is a must. Oh, and don’t forget a desk light for those late-night cramming sessions.

#2 Storage

Wycombe Oak Open Wardrobe cutout

All those years of your folks nagging you to keep your room tidy will now come to fruition. It is simple: space is limited and you want a pleasant room to come back to after a long day of lectures. Climbing over piles of clothes, clean or otherwise, is not conducive to helping your settle at university and enjoy your time there.

For easy storage, we suggest the Wycombe open wardrobe. Really quick to put things away, it is also uber-easy to grab something as you race out the door with minutes to spare until your first lecture of the day.

#3 Accessories

Sassa Table Wicker Lamp

Bringing items from home is comforting when the home sickness bites – and it will – but you will get through it. And this is why a welcoming, warm, comfy and stylish room is essential. From cushions to throws, to photos of friends and family, consider;

  • Lighting – the central light and the desk lamp are utilitarian (that is, practical). You need a warm light to enjoy the evenings by hence a bedside lamp is a great move. Keep the bulb a soft, warm white. These wicker white bedside lamps are perfect.
  • Mirror – you need to make sure you are not leaving for the fresher’s ball with jam on your chin and thus, a full-length oak mirror is essential. However, a mirror also helps to make the room feel bigger and also reflects light about the space.

And don’t forget artwork, photos and all those little bits and pieces that make a room YOUR room, YOUR space, YOUR domain.

Celebrate all things British and buy British this season

English Beam Dining Table

English Beam Reclaimed Wood Dining Table

Coinciding with Small Business Saturday, the Buy British Day which aims to encourage us to buy products designed and made in the UK will be held on 3rd October. It is a time to examine what Britain has to offer, a chance to enjoy the exciting talent of local, small and British businesses.

Within retail, there are many things that as a consumer, you can buy and when it comes to British designers and products, there is no shortage of options either. Within the furniture sector, it has become clear of late that the modern consumer that flimsier items are no longer an option. People want good quality products at great prices – and if they are supporting British producers and designers, then this is a bonus too.

Our ‘Made in Britain’ Collection

English Beam Extendable Reclaimed Wood Dining Table and Dining Chairs

We work with designers and producers based across the globe, supporting fledgeling industries but we are exceptionally proud of our ‘Made in Britain’ collection. Add to this our penchant for using reclaimed wood, using the skills of artisan furniture makers, and you can see we are proud of our British made products.

Rustic Inlay Reclaimed Wood Dining Table

We source wood from bakeries, London pubs, bakeries, anywhere that have large pieces of timber ripe for reuse as pieces of fine furniture. Our Rough Sawn collection, for example, is a range of reclaimed wood items that look are refined, a chance to show the beauty of the wood. When it comes to rustic furniture, there is nothing better than this collection.

Wooden beams were made from slow growing trees, such as oak, as it is a dense wood with superior strength. Before stainless steel and concrete plinths, large wooden beams were hoisted into position and would have easily borne the weight of a building. Now, this wood – undented and largely undamaged – enjoys ‘retirement’ in our English Beam collection. Again, with the fine eye of a designer and the skills of an artisan furniture maker, these beams become exquisite pieces for your home. Imagine Christmas dinner around a reclaimed wood table with family and friends?

Oldman Industrial Reclaimed Wood Boardroom Table

The Industrial Revolution that swept the country in the 18th Century brought about monumental change. It also saw industrial and traditional materials brought together. This collaboration, at first an uneasy combination, is now a harmonious marriage. Reclaimed wood, concrete and steel feature throughout the Oldman Collection. A British designed and made collection, it shows the end product of when new meets old, modern meets traditional.

British Designers

Ant Fox Wall Canvas

We support many designers and one is the Brighton based artist Ant Fox. There is something endearing about his animal canvas prints. Something sweet without being sticky. His art catches and retains the eye, they are pieces that guest will admire and comment on. His art fuses the modern – printing on canvas – with the traditional, as he finishes them by hand. In other words, each piece is unique and personal.

The List Goes on…

Our mattresses are British made, as our elegant, crushed velvet Padstow sofa and armchairs. Even better, we think, is that many of our items can be made to your exact requirements. So, if you want a statement piece in a reclaimed wood coffee table, then go for it!

Padstow Armchair and Sofa Made in Derbyshire

Supporting homespun industries is essential for the economy and so this season, why not indulge yourself with reclaimed furniture that will last for generations to come?

Foods that will help you sleep better

Reclaimed wood bed

Women sleeping in reclaimed wood bed

With the fast pace and distractions of modern life, sleep matters. As the evenings get darker, and with World Dream Day on 25th September, now is the perfect time to think about how you can improve your sleep pattern and conserve energy for those cold winter days.

Two things which make a huge difference to sleep is your diet, and your bed. Here a few of our food and master bedroom ideas to help improve sleep.

Food

There is plenty of foods which will make you sleepy (and lots that will keep you awake too). Stick to these foods for late night bites, and incorporate these into your diet, to help improve your sleep.

Vegetables like sweet potatoes, nuts like pistachios and almonds and fruits like prunes, bananas and cherries are all great to help you feel sleepy. Herbal teas are also great to help you rewind at the end of a long day.

Herbal Tea for World Sleep Day

You could even make a banana cake incorporating foods which will make you sleepy (and also make a delicious dessert). Check out a delicious recipe for banana cake here.

Foods to avoid include peppermints, burgers and spicy food. For drinks, of course coffee, as well as orange juice, are ones to avoid in the evening.

Bed

Toy on Reclaimed Wood Bed

In order to get the best night’s sleep possible, it is important to ensure you have the perfect mattress. Our blogposts on choosing the perfect bed, and choosing the best position for your bed, are full of handy hints and tips to make sure you’ll get a great night’s sleep every night.

Most importantly, to ensure you wake up free of aches and pains, your mattress should support the three natural curves in your back (the neck, middle and lower back). The mattress should be a soft, luxurious surface you can sink into which doesn’t force your back straight. Whether you go for springs or pocket sprung is up to you. Further, when it comes to bedroom decorations keep it simple. You don’t want to provide your brain with more distractions, keeping you awake.

The bed frame is more about style than comfort, however a solid bed frame is important to give adequate support to the mattress upon it. A bed with a curved headboard is great for providing comfort if you like to sit up in bed and read or talk and will also create an elegant finish. Alternatively, contemporary beds with a slim, oak frame will create a sleek look that will perfectly compliment modern furniture.

Book on Bed

Of course, patterns are also hugely important when it comes to improving your sleep. For example, turning off any gadgets at least 30 minutes before going to bed will help relax the brain. Ensuring you don’t do work in your bedroom also provides a separated, relaxing space which will make it easier to doze off.

Did you try any of these bed ideas? What are your tips and tricks for getting a better night’s sleep? Let us know.

It’s time to get your perfect party table

English Beam Reclaimed Wood Dining Table

Lansdowne Industrial Dining Table

Your dining room table is an important centrepiece in your house and Christmas time is no exception. As well as choosing the all important decorations and table settings, you need to ensure that you have enough space for all your guests. Whether you’re planning for a pre-Christmas party or the main event, there are a number of factors to take into account when planning your perfect party table.

What shape will work best for me?

If you have limited space, a round or oval table will often work best. It is more convivial to squeeze extra guests around a circular table rather than being seated on an awkward corner of a rectangular shape. Round tables have a common centre for all the guests and offer a friendly, intimate feel. The brand new Colette round dining table has an elegant, statement base and adds a splash of rustic style to your dining experience.

Colette Reclaimed Wood Round Dining Table

Rectangular tables offer sleek lines for a room with space and usually seat more people. Choose a rustic or industrial style if you want a stylish piece without compromising on functionality. This popular Lansdowne Industrial dining table makes a statement whilst being practical and offering one or two 45cm extension leaves.

Do I need an extension?

Extending tables offer the best solution for seating extra guests and making most of dining space. Just don’t forget the extra chairs!

You may want to consider where you would keep the extra sessions. Big chunky rustic furniture is gorgeous but do you have storage options for a heavy extra section? Also bear in mind the space in your room, whilst it’s great to be able to find seating for all your guests, make sure you allow enough room for people to move around the rustic dining table comfortably once it is extended.

Farringdon Reclaimed Wood Extendable Dining Table with Brook Chairs

The Farringdon reclaimed wood dining table offers superb value. Impress at parties with this stylish piece of reclaimed furniture which includes a slick fold away extension, perfect where storage is at a premium. This table is sure to wow, especially when teamed with the luxury grey fabric dining chairs.

English Beam Extendable Reclaimed Wood Dining Table and Leather Chairs

A fabulous alternative is a bespoke piece made to your own size specifications. Two particular favourites from Modish Living include the English Beam extendable reclaimed wood dining table which offers a stylish and characterful solid top and legs using English beams that are over 100 years old. We also love the White wash inlay reclaimed wood table for a Scandinavian feel. This too is extendable and can be made up to 300cm long.

Be sure to order your bespoke rustic furniture by the end of October to ensure it arrives in time for the party season.

I’ve found my perfect table but how do I decorate it?

Christmas is a time for giving your table some extra glamour and sparkle but you may want to think about works best for the shape that you’ve chosen. Rectangular tables lend themselves to fancy table runners, which allow you to set the base for your colour.

For a rustic, traditional look choose warmer colours, whilst cooler wintry colours lend them more to a Scandinavian style table.

A great idea for a round table is to set a circular mirror in the centre to match the shape and then add some flickering candles or table jewels for gorgeous reflected sparkle.

With these tips, you’ll soon have a dining table to be proud of – no matter what the size and shape of your dining space.

Get the Scandinavian style in the dining room with these new sets

Wycombe Oak Wall Mirror

Wycombe Oak Dining Set

Scandinavian furniture is well known for its ability to transform any space into a luxurious, tranquil haven. This is perfect in the dining room for creating a room you’ll love spending time with family during mid-week meals and with friends at dinner parties.

Our gorgeous new dining room table sets have been beautifully crafted with oak and feature the ever-popular Nordic design influences for beautiful pieces which will receive endless compliments.

Before you add the furniture into your room, if you are prepared for a bit of work, Scandinavian spaces always have fresh white walls and light flooring to really create an illusion of a larger, more spacious room. Then, when it comes to furniture, try and keep the wood light (or white) to maintain this illusion.

This is why the Wycombe Oak dining tables are perfect. Their slim styles and elegant finishes make them the perfect choice to achieve that dream Scandinavian style.

Wycombe Extending Oak Round Table

When it comes to the perfect Scandinavian dining table, think about what you tend to use your table for. For example, if you love to entertain, a round extendable dining table may be the perfect choice. A rounded table is great for creating a feeling of togetherness, allowing everyone around the table to talk and really spend quality time together. The dining tables come with matching Scandinavian chairs to create a sleek, coordinated finish which will beautifully complement other modern furniture in your home.

Hudson Living Wycombe Oak Dining Set extendable

Alternatively, you may have a room which is more suitable for a classic, rectangular table. The gorgeous Wycombe Oak Dining Set features the same gorgeous finish as the round table with the soft edging and slim round legs for that luxurious, Nordic style. The table is also available in an extendable style, which is perfect for large families and those who adore entertaining.

To really bring that Scandinavian style to life, think about how you can accessorise. Scandinavian design leans on the side of minimalism, so try and add interest without adding clutter or large, dramatic pieces. Add a few potted plants in white or silver pots for a splash of green and add a simple, large mirror on the wall. If you want a slightly more statement piece, a large floor rug is a great option.

Wycombe Wall Mirror

For more inspiration, or to shop the new Wycombe Oak dining sets, take a look at the Modish Living website. Or get in touch with one of our team members for any enquiries.