Simply does it. Just moved house and have a decent fireplace? Then make it a feature by placing 2 (inexpensive) sofas facing each other, a small coffee table or even have end tables (if the space between is limited), add 3 or 5 photos or art work, fling a cushion or 2 on the sofa and add a colourful throw. If the fire isn't ready, willing or able to be fired up then add candles or wooden logs (not both at the same time, of course) and then step back and admire your handiwork.Voila!
If you are looking for someone to help you redesign your home then robinbelldesign.com have a knack of making a jaded room come alive.
I have been following their work for a while and think they do a wonderful job - case in point the room above. Mixing new and old they ensure this lounge has a comfortable, warm feel. The large leather stool, the overstuffed sofa, the very practical coffee-table and the restrained yellow on the walls create a beautiful space.
Please Note: This blog is 'Pay-Per-Post-Free' and therefore no payments, inducements or otherwise are included nor received in any blogposts. Read in confidence that any ideas, suggestions or companies discussed or featured are here because I like them or think they have something to offer you - namely quality, design and/or good value.
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Image Reproduced with permission from the Robin Bell. Further reproduction prohibited without the express written permission of the Robin Bell
I'm a big fan of fresh, bright and stylish rooms and this is one room that I could live in quite easily.
The room is framed by a simple arch where the owners have used restraint and considered pieces to bring a modern yet eclectic feel to the room. Very effective.
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This Manhattan apartment has a hint of retro and yet is stylish and warm. An apartment for a busy person who is style-conscious but not overly so. The furniture almost appears thrown together, yet an artful eye has carefully chosen these items although I'm not too sure about the wall art.
What do you think?
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This lounge is spacious and quite large yet manages, through effective zoning, to look cosy and inviting.
The focus here is on natural, neutral colours that are easy on the eye and aids relaxation. The sofas are large and are ones you could easily curl up on. A warming, attractive working fireplace is a lovely feature.
The dining area has a lower ceiling - much more intimate.
Expanses of windows enables natural light to enter the room. Choice pieces of art, furniture, lighting and accessories are restrained and are not allowed to overwhelm the space.
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This lounge gives the impression of being able to change around in a jiffy. A simple room which lends itself to change and adaptation. A cottage-y, cosy feel, especially lends itself well to small rooms - you may care for bolder colours, but try not to overwhelm a small space.
You may notice that the furniture is a mix and match of different styles. If your budget is small then consider purchasing used furniture that is well made - if purchasing wooden items then check for and avoid woodworm or other deficiencies. If your intended seating purchase is upholstered then look beyond shabby covers and try to imagine of your ideal covers and consider having a good upholsterer work magic on the item(s).
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Here's a variation on the white lounge from the previous post for those you wary of spoiling the look (all white) with everyday thrills and spills.
I know that living in a white room isn't the most practical if you have young children and don't want to worry about every stain but...it does look beautiful and is so wonderful at night. Especially if you light scented candles. The key to ensure you don't spend your life cleaning is to have removeable, washable covers on sofas and cushions, don't have white carpets (?), but light coloured wooden flooring, use washable low sheen paint on surfaces. For the high ceilings and beams ensure you have an ultra long-handled quality duster and just have a quick swipe around every so often.
What a great way to relax in the evenings!
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The bright fresh colours contrast beautifully with the backdrop of white. This proves the point that you don't need a huge budget to make a home an attractive place to be.
Imagine spending the afternoons relaxing in just such an area as this - away from the heat of the sun - with loved ones. Eating a light lunch, drinking exotic smoothies then curling up in the swing-chair or lying prone on bamboo, fabric-covered matresses. Just imagine...
Calm, restful tones with a spark of freshness mix an element of the traditional with modernity. This grouping, you will notice, pays no attention to a television - this is a place for talking and relaxing. The large plant helps to balance the outer area and the large blue and cream rug ties it all together.
Echoes of a bygone era, beautifully styled with great elements and echoes of roundness on the lamp and the trimmings on the cushions. The backdrop is arty and fun without drowning the area.
