katie.lacy@letsgetcoffee.co.uk, Author at Modish Living

Take advantage of our sale and get the Scandinavian look

The Scandinavian style is all about light bright spaces with oak furniture and calming shades – hence why it is the perfect style for a bedroom. Get the Scandinavian interior you’ve dreamt of with the Modish Living sale.

Of course, as the main piece of furniture in your bedroom, it is important to get the bed right. Create the look of luxury with the Oldham King Bed. Light oak bedroom furniture is perfect for creating a clean, tranquil space but without compromising on personality. The slim lines of the headboard on this headboard works beautifully with colours like grey and white, with accents of yellow or even with geometric pattern on the walls or through scatter cushions.

For a bit of contrast, pair the bed with one of our sheepskin rugs. The Luxury Sexto Black Sheepskin Rug is great for a bedroom as it will take up a large floor space and create a cosy landing for your feet on chilly winter mornings to come. The beautiful natural colouring adds style and glamour and works to add a little drama to an otherwise very light, neutral room. To tie the black in with other accents, add contemporary black lanterns or thin black frames on artwork so as to not darken the room.

Then comes storage. The Luna collection available at Modish Living offers the most style storage solutions for any modern bedroom, with the slim lines helping to create the illusion of more space. This collection creates the chic Nordic look much loved by stylish home interior magazines. The large chest of drawers also creates invaluable storage space with its good sized drawers.

And of course, a wardrobe in any bedroom is also a must. A solid oak wardrobe will bring enjoyment for years, being both practical and beautiful. The Luna Double Wardrobe is crafted from high grade oak and offers both shelving and drawer space for all your storage needs.

Creative ways to keep your desk tidy

Clear desk, clear mind. Whether you work in an office or at home, an untidy working area is never helpful when it comes to productivity. If you struggle to keep on top of mess and let coffee cups and paperwork pile up, try and come up with creative solutions to get organised.

The first step is of course finding the perfect wooden desk to work at and working out how to best utilise this. For example, if you have a simple reclaimed wood desk with no drawer space, try and split the desk with a computer stand. This gives you a handy bit of extra space for storing small items that create the look of clutter as well as more space for spreading out or writing.

If you struggle for floor space, a small office desk is a must, however that leaves little room to get organised. If this is the case, try and get the bulky desk essentials off your desk and put them elsewhere in the room.

A wooden blanket box is a great idea for stacking up box files, lever arch files and even textbooks keeping your room clutter free, and looking stylish all at once. Of course, a desk with drawer or cupboard space will serve a similar purpose – it really comes down to how much you need to store in your home office.

If you are blessed with slightly more space, reclaimed wood shelves or storage units are a great investment. Use the shelves to put labels on files and separate out books and files for a cleaner finish. You could even colour order if you want to add an organised pop of colour that may inspire a bright new idea.

Alternatively, for a slightly less corporate look, you could turn one corner of your room into a more relaxed space with a comfortable armchair and a reclaimed wood coffee table. Again, this allows you to remove some of the clutter off your desk and spread it across another surface. A coffee table with drawers will add further space for tucking away unsightly items for that tidy and efficient office you’ve been dreaming of.

Beyond items of furniture, invest in smaller items like serveware to eliminate clutter and ensure everything has its rightful spot. For example, use dip bowls for storing office essentials like paper clips and extra staples. You could even use baguette bowls for storing pens and rulers.

When it comes to holders such as these, try and keep the number of items on the desk to a minimum. If you have a lot of stationary, prioritise and put the items you use less frequently in places where they are easily accessible but don’t take over the entire desk.

To get the dream reclaimed wood desk have a look at our bespoke Oldman desks and for more inspiration have a look at our office themed blogs.

Spoil your mum by offering her a Lazy Day

On Friday 1st September, it is Lazy Mum’s Day. Even on Mother’s Day, mothers keep cooking, cleaning and working hard to look after their families which is why Lazy Mum’s Day is a day where they are encourages to simply be lazy.

There’s no need to buy your Mum a present, just give her some peace and quiet!

Start the day right with breakfast in bed – perhaps even get the kids to prepare breakfast! In a cosy haven of a white wooden bed with lots of scatter cushions and luxurious throws, your Mum can relax with a cup of coffee and her current book rather than rush around getting breakfast and getting everyone ready to leave the house.

If breakfast in bed isn’t an option, once the kids have got to school, if you don’t have to work, take the day to put your feet up. Relax in a comfy armchair reading the newspaper with a hot drink.

Alternatively, for a bit of luxury, invest in a leather chesterfield sofa. The winged arms of this sofa give an elegant twist to this icon of British furniture design and creates an opulent look in any living room. Hang a couple of knitted throws over the edge of the sofa so you can get comfortable and settle in for the long haul. You could even save yourself the hassle of dinner by getting a takeaway and just spend time with family.

Make sure you have the perfect reclaimed wood coffee table to pop your drink on. Sumptuously stylish, this British made rustic coffee table would make the perfect centrepiece to your living room. Stack the shelf with magazines and books so you can spend the day taking a well-earned break with some time to yourself.

To find the perfect living room furniture, take a look at the Modish Living website or get in touch with one of our team members for any enquiries.

The every day look of your dining table

Even when not in use, the dining table is still a feature of your dining room or kitchen. A space primarily used for dining and entertaining, a dining room table is also the perfect space to add personality to your space.

In the dining room

In a large dining room, play up the glamorous setting with a reclaimed wood dining table and accessories to match.

The simple table top of this reclaimed elm dining table paired with the shiny stainless steel legs is perfect for any modern dining room. With a slim design, the elegant table keeps any room bright and open, creating an illusion of more space.

To create a coordinated space, match the accessories to the stainless steel legs. The Bud Candelabra would look stunning with the Maddox dining table, with the moulded base and tall design adding depth and interest without creating a cluttered space. If you go for a table with a unique base, keep accessories minimal such as these simple candlesticks and a simple potted plant for a splash of green.

Alternatively, go for a more classic look in the dining room with a rustic dining table. This table even comes complete with drawers on the edge perfect for stowing away dining accessories and even that special cutlery set. Add a couple of different sizes lanterns for a modern contrast against the more traditional style of the table.

In a light airy space

In an extension, or a room with lots of windows, match the style of the room with a contemporary dining table. The angled trestle style and modern concrete resin top of this table creates an architectural design. Keep it simple with matching wooden chairs for a sleek finish and go for ultra contemporary accessories.

A more modern style table lends itself to colour with accessories. It could be something as simple as dressing the table with a bowl of citrus fruits, or a fresh bunch of flowers.

This room style also suits an oval dining table. The classic, elegant style of this white dining table creates a wonderful contrast against the modern style of the room. Go with elegant decor to match such as the Bramble collection available on our website. The Bramble Flower Caddy Dip is great as stunning serveware for dinner parties and a matching Bread Board completes the look.

For a farmhouse look

Oak dining tables look stunning in any dining room or kitchen. Paired in a wooden kitchen or simple white dining room, this luxurious farmhouse table has been handcrafted with solid oak and is perfect for hosting large dinner parties. Pair with elegant upholstered dining chairs and simple glass candle holders for the ultimate farmhouse look with a touch of glamour.

Alternatively, go for a table in a combination of white and dark wood with plenty of character to create a magnificent focal point in any farmhouse style room.

To find the perfect dining table for your home, take a look at the Modish Living website or get in touch with one of our team members for any enquiries.

How to measure for the right bedroom furniture

Louis de Poortere Atlantic Ocean Waves Rug

The bedroom is an important room – it is the place where you end the day, falling into a restful sleep and the place where you rise and shine, refreshed and ready to face another day.

What is not a great end or start to your day is stubbing your toe as you trip over things to try and reach the bed.

And this is why you need to measure the bedroom and choose bedroom sets, bed and décor that suit the dimension of the room.

The Bed

Clearly, being a bedroom, the main item of furniture should be the bed. From single to bunk beds, double beds to super king size, the bed should be the focal point of the room.

You can give the illusion of space by playing with colour, choosing bedroom furniture that compliments the space.

A low bed is great for any bedroom but the lower level of the bed gives the illusion of swallowing more floor space.

But as soon as items of bedroom furniture have notable gaps between the underside and the floor, it can help to give more illusion of space in the room. Higher beds can also be made to look sumptuous too, with oversized duvets and plump pillows.

How else can you arrange furniture in the bedroom for maximum space?

Storage is clearly a priority in the bedroom too and we have some great ideas;

With a higher bed, use under-the-bed storage drawers for a neat look and ample storage
A wooden blanket box is also ideal and if you have the space, place it at the end of the bed – this is ideal for framing the bed as well as being easily accessible. Choose a simpler design so that the overall style is not too cluttered, such as the Savannah blanket box.
Chests of drawers provide valuable storage space in terms of drawers but also a surface for essential items and accessories. Taller drawer sets can swamp a smaller room and too broad and they will take up too much floor space. Look for a bedroom chest of drawers that has a smaller footprint and in term of height, always make it is in keeping with the rest of the room. Whilst a small chest of drawers can seem like the logical alternative, ‘small’ furniture can completely throw out the dimensions of a room.
Bedside tables are also essential and can be useful not only in terms of practical storage but also in framing the bed. Choose bedside tables that are slightly lower or the same height as your bed – too tall and they will make the bed seem smaller than it is. Again, keep the design of the bedside table simple yet stylish and light.

Other bedroom ideas for increasing the sense of space is to choose bedroom décor that is light and reflective.

Also helpful is the correct bedroom rug placement. Again, use a rug to frame the room or an item of furniture. A large rug under the bed that leaves a collar of rug around the bed is great for opening up the floor. Or use smaller rugs on each side of the bed.

Your bedroom may not have acres of space, but it will certainly feel spacious, yet restful with these great ideas.

Spend a day with your dog and don’t worry about cleaning

Do you sometimes struggle to balance everything in life? When this is the case, it is sometimes because there is so much going on that you can no longer prioritise tasks and activities.

This ‘not being able to see the wood for the trees’ is rectified by only one action; taking a step back. There are many ways you can do this – retail therapy, a walk in the hills or a day spent with your dog.

Treat Your Dog Day (And Restore Balance in Your Life!)

Your four-legged furry friend with their wagging tail and cold, wet nose quickly become an important member of the family. No matter what the weather is doing outside or what life throws at you, your dog welcomes you home with snuffles and barks.

But don’t just take our word for it. It is a known and scientifically proven fact that stroking a dog, cuddling buddies or simply taking Fido for a quick walk around the block restores and supports a sense of emotional healing.

So, how could you spend the day with the man’s best friend?

Take a Walk

Every dog needs exercising and every dog appreciates a chance to spend at least half an hour sniffing out the smells of their local neighbourhood. You could, of course, venture further afield. Find a dog park for fun with other canines or enjoy a stroll in the fresh sea air (checking local bylaws that dogs are allowed on the beach!)

Snuggle on the Sofa

Not everyone allows their pets on the sofa – and with good reason because getting rid of dog hair from fabric chairs or a crushed velvet Chesterfield sofa can be a nightmare (but stick with us because we’ll show you how) so instead, create a fantastic bed for your furry best friend with a wool rug in front of a roaring fire, perfect for enjoying a winter’s afternoon and evening together.

Removing Dog Hair, the Easy Way

Leather furniture, from sofas to club chair, is the better option for the dog-friendly household. Unlike other fabrics, pet hair doesn’t stick to leather. Simply wipe it off with a damp cloth or use the leather-nourishing wipes to ‘feed’ the leather.

Fabrics such as velvet attract and hold on to both dog and cat hair and thus need a special, but affordable cleaning implement in the shape of a lint roller. This is a roller on a handle that rotates and has a tacky surface. Simply gently roll over the surface of the fabric armchairs and what dog hair and unseen remnants of dust stick to it too. Some people use sticky tape but be careful not to damage the velvet pile or you velvet chair and sofa will soon have a ‘matted’ or flat appearance.

Of course, you can always protect your sofa before a day of snuggling with your canine best friend by covering it. What about a warm, cosy throw, perfect for you and the dog to share – if they let you? Shake the loss dog hair from its fibres and pop in the washing machine, making sure you read the washing instruction label, once you have spent the day restoring your balance and enjoying the company of your canine companion.

The small bedroom and how to decorate it

The smaller bedroom always presents a conundrum when it comes to decorating – do you opt for the cosy feel with reclaimed furniture or try to expand its walls and space with clever tricks on the eye?

What complicates the situation is when the small bedroom is occupied by a young person. Complete with a raft of GCSEs under their belt, they ‘lodge’ at home as they complete A Levels or an apprenticeship. They may still be ‘lodging’ at home whilst completing their degree too.

Thus, decorating the small bedroom is not just about a pot of beige paint, but about injecting character, warmth, style and texture that the ‘student lodger’ will love for years to come.

Here are top tips to decorate and style the small bedroom into a fitting place for the maturing student…

Nest of Tables

Ring the changes (and introduce a note of stylish functionality) with a nest of tables instead of a bedside table. It may be an item you associate with the 1970s lounge, but for the modern student, extra surfaces are ideal when you have phones, tablets and laptops to charge.

Console Table

We are tempted in a smaller room to add ‘smaller’ furniture. This can have the opposite effect to what we want and so rather than considering the dimensions of the piece, look at its footprint.

Even though a wooden side table may be small, it may not be the ideal fit next to the bed and if the nest of tables doesn’t add the storage you want, consider the humble console table instead.

Available in single or double drawer style they are a stylish and ‘grown-up’ piece of any bedroom. (Better still, a console table doesn’t subscribe to being a piece of either a boy’s or girls’ bedroom furniture!)

Customise the headboard

In a small bedroom, adding details can be difficult as there is a fine line between detail and clutter. But anything that adds light and sparkle is welcome. A simple trick is to customise the headboard with fairy lights, of which there is now an amazing range.

Why not artistically drape fairy lights around the frame of a reclaimed wood mirror?

Storage solutions

Clearly, a smaller bedroom may not have the space for a gargantuan reclaimed wood wardrobe and so you need to be creative about storage solutions. Adding too much ‘stuff’ on top of wardrobes and over the bed can shorten the room, making it look and feel smaller.

Instead, opt for custom made under the bed storage drawers. Made to contrast and complement the rest of the bedroom, they are ideal for storing all kinds of bits and bobs, clothes included.

Substitute the bedside table for a small chest of drawers if you want to combine ample storage with surface space too.

The Remainder of the Room…

Ditch the clutter of a sidelight with a dimmable central pendant light that also acts the wow factor in the room
This reclaimed wood wardrobe with its small footprint is ideal as it won’t dominate the room but place it where it can be easily accessed (no excuse not to put clean clothes away…)
And don’t forget that the working space needs to be in good light so that when they are studying, they are not doing so in shadow.

How will you decorate your small bedroom to give the illusion of space?

Easily get your farmhouse inspired bedroom

You don’t have to live on a farm or in a rural location to enjoy the whimsical romance on the farmhouse inspired bedroom.

By using key elements of this popular interior design style, you too can enjoy a stunning farmhouse bedroom…

Mix the old and the new…

The farmhouse bedroom is an informal, relaxed space but make sure you retain a few nods to the traditions of yesteryear. The easiest way of doing this is to mix the old with the new.

One of the easiest and fool proof ways of achieving this is with reclaimed wood furniture. Each grain, dip and pattern tell a story, perfect for injecting uniqueness and a slightly modern edgy without ditching the past completely.

Our Tip

Make the bed the key feature. Don’t be frightened of it ‘imposing’ on the room as in essence, the bed was the main character of the play that is the farmhouse styled bedroom. This reclaimed wood high framed bed is ideal. Or, if you prefer the painted look, consider the Marlow grey painted bed.

The Blanket Box

As well as the wardrobe and the chest of drawers, along with the quaint side tables, there was another piece of farmhouse furniture that was essential ‘back in the day’.

The bedroom fire heated the room in the hours before bed but with the prospect of a cold night, once the fire had gone out, the wooden blanket box was the place where extra blankets and feather-filled eiderdowns were kept.

You may not have masses of either but the wooden blanket box is practical and functional, but ideal for adding a nod to tradition.

Our Tip

This mix of painted and reclaimed wood is ideal and a white blanket box is a great nod to the farmhouse style. Complete the look with matching bedside tables.

Pastel Colours

The farmhouse style is not devoid of colour but think lighter pastel shades. Stick with white and mix with pretty, flowered linens or opt for buttery yellow or a warm beige. Darker colours were rarely used on the walls as farmhouse bedroom furniture would often be dark wood, and lighter colours help to lift the room.

Steer clear of stripes and geometric patterns, and stick with florals although you can be as modern in your choice as you like.

Our Tip

Not keen on dark furniture? You are in luck because white bedroom furniture is ideal for the farmhouse bedroom look. White when teamed with exposed or reclaimed wood stops white furniture looking too ‘young’, modern and misplaced in a farmhouse bedroom.

Natural Materials

Although there are some examples of metal being used in a farmhouse styled bedroom, the overriding material was wood. But if you find this too much, opt for other natural materials such as rattan.

This wicker storage basket, complete with upholstered seat is ideal to act as both storage and a window seat.

Now you have the basics of your farmhouse bedroom, you can create your own perfect romantic, boudoir haven!

Are dining tables with drawers in or out of fashion?

For those of us with long memories, the dining table complete with almost-hidden drawers were a common sight in the kitchen dining table.

The ‘everyday’ dining table had the ‘everyday’ cutlery stored in the drawer and other odd bits and bobs. But in the dining room table, the drawer was home to the best cutlery. It was almost hallowed ground, a place that only those with permission could go…

Our use of the dining table and the dining room made be different today and far less formal than in years gone by but the dining table complete with drawers is very much back in fashion. Some of us would argue the farmhouse table with drawers never went out of fashion.

The Appeal of the Farmhouse Style

If you think farmhouse furniture means overly chunky, then you take a look at what this painted farmhouse-style reclaimed wood table would give you.

As well as a farmhouse dining table with finesse and style, it is also perfectly practical too:

Extendable – for when guests arrive, you can simply add an extra length to the farmhouse dining table with an extendable ‘flap’, meaning you can enjoy a meal without clashing elbows with your neighbour.
Versatile – this farmhouse kitchen table would work well in any situation, with the chairs and/or bench enhancing its beauty. Team with upholstered dining chairs or mix n’ match with a wooden bench or two.
The drawer – choose from a one or two drawer style and keep your every day or best cutlery close to hand. Also, a great place to keep placemats, napkins and other must-have items at meal times.
Unique – reclaimed wood furniture is fantastic, no two ways about it. This reclaimed wood rustic dining table is beautiful, smooth and with a warmth all of its own, each item is unique because every pattern and grain is unique…

Function and Finesses

People love the farmhouse look for its solid features, curves and the appeal it has to be able to withstand the rigours that family life throws at it.

But you may want a refined look for the ‘best’ dining room. For those of us that enjoy entertaining, we know how important the surroundings of the dining room are. The setting of the table, the flicker of the candles in the table centre, the feel of the smooth linen napkin all help the taste buds to enjoy the food on offer.

The Barclays reclaimed wood dining table packs a punch in terms of style. And like its Earlier mentioned counterpart, has everything that you need;

Drawer space – cleverly disguised as four small drawers, the end of the table actually has one large drawer, ideal for storing place mats, napkins, cutlery and more.
Stylishly unique – again, there is something beautiful about each piece and that is because each piece is unique. Reclaimed wood tells a story, and far from compromising the table, every undulation and blemish adds to its beauty.
Dine in elegance – shine the spotlight on its elegance further with customisable leather and fabric dining chairs.

Too Many Choices?

There are, of course, dining room sets that take the uncertainty of pairing chairs and benches with a dining table to get the right look for you home, making it even easier to have the dining room style you want.

Does a dining table with drawers appeal to you?