Blues can create a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere in your home. Chambray is a beautiful colour that offers strength and softness simultaneously, a timeless and calming shade that embodies the essence of effortless elegance.  Dark blues can add sophistication and moodiness to a space, while lighter blues can create a sense of calm. Blue is a versatile colour that can be easily paired with many other colours for interior and exterior designs. Chambray is a relaxed blue with grey undertones; it can also appear light, powdery blue with a slightly washed-out look, similar to the fabric. Chambray blue is a neutral colour for interiors, adding a touch of laid-back sophistication to home furnishings. Chambray comes in multiple shades, ranging from deep, dark, cornflower, and true blue to lighter hues. This range of colours spans from dark to light, offering various options for home decor. wayfair.com ralphlauren.com.au lowes.com  horchow.com  quiltcoverworld.com.au  templeandwebster.com.au

Solution-dyed acrylic fabrics are ideal for upholstery due to their supreme cleanability, fade resistance, and exceptional comfort. Whether it's for the beach, backyard, or within the home, these patterns suit all designs. The selection includes whimsical prints, textural solids, symmetrical stripes, and mid-scale graphic designs. These hard-wearing fabrics are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Designers can combine these coordinating fabrics to create a cohesive story where colours blend seamlessly with a mix of plains, stripes, and patterns. They are perfect for any room in the home where durability and easy care are essential.  thibautdesign.com

Internal and external arches have been integral to construction for thousands of years, especially before the discovery of lime to create concrete, which revolutionized building methods by allowing for multiple floors. Curved furnishings are currently very popular, and the arches' curves blend well with this style. Adding soft curves to arched doorways enhances their sophistication and beauty. It’s not necessary to have arches throughout the entire home; a few feature arches can make a big style statement. Although passageways with arches are often chosen for more traditional homes, there's a shift, and arches are now a welcome feature in any part of the home. Ensure there is plenty of clearance as you walk from a room with an arch to the next space, allowing for adequate head height. Not all styles of arches are in vogue now, as some are associated with traditional-style homes. curatedinterior.com  home-designing.com   deavita.net  shelterness.com 

In the past, placing the stove in an alcove helped contain its heat, fireproof the kitchen, and reduce the buildup of grease and sticky residues. To effectively remove oils, it is essential to capture air containing oil within the alcove and exhaust it outside. A small alcove is usually tiled and easy to maintain. If you have space on either side of the stove, consider adding shelving for supplies you frequently use. It is crucial to keep flammable materials away from the stove and to ensure the alcove is equipped with fire-resistant materials to prevent accidents. The stove should serve as the focal point of the kitchen, so the size of the alcove should be proportionate to the stove itself. As traditional kitchen elements gain popularity, we’re shifting away from minimalist designs—which often integrate everything—toward kitchens that feature distinct cooktops and exposed refrigerators. Keep in mind that an alcove may eliminate any storage cupboards that could have been situated above or beside the cooktop, so be sure to consider this when planning your kitchen layout. pinterest  pinterest  decorpad.com

Colour Drenching is when the entire room is painted in one colour from the ceiling to the baseboard. It's a way to create drama in a room. This trend may come and go, but there will always be those who love the look and those who don't. I also like it, but it depends on adequate lighting and a room with architectural features to break up the walls. Choosing a mid-tone colour, not too dark and not too light, is a safe option as long as you love the colour. Also, consider if the room has a cold visual feel – it's best to choose a warm colour. If the room has a hot visual feel, choose a cool colour. An option is to paint just the ceiling with a high gloss paint for a luminous look that reflects the light and use matte paint on the walls for an affordable high-end look. Images Mylands.com  Design Dispatch  Benjamin Moore HomestoLove.com 

Remember the following: Most homes typically have cornices, (if you have cornices instead of a square set) doors, and architraves. It's best to keep the cornices the same colour as the ceiling, typically white, while the architraves and doors are best kept white or timber stained for continuity throughout the home. Keeping these elements neutral allows for different wall colours in each room without creating clashes or visual disconnections. It is recommended to keep the architraves and doors the same colour for a cohesive look.  Images  Apartment Therapy  Veranda.com

Here we have stunning rooms from Idei.club and The Spruce.com. Large windows are a wonderful asset for many reasons. The home will be flooded with natural light, and the room will appear larger, adding value to your home. Another great reason is to enjoy the view. Large windows allow more heat to enter the room, reducing heating costs. When you have large windows, it often means you have considered heating and cooling to compensate for both. The orientation of your home is an important factor; note the warm and cool sides of your home. Large windows can be very efficient, especially if made of the right materials and installed correctly. These days, there's a wide range of options for window coverings that cater to hot and cold conditions, so only cover windows out of necessity. Take a look at the windows in your home: Can some be increased in size? Can some doors be changed out for sliding glass doors? Maybe you will love your home a little more with these changes. 

Do you know the difference between kitchen stools and bar stools? The main difference is the height. Bar stools are taller than kitchen stools, as kitchen stools need to be lower to fit under the overhang of the kitchen counter and still provide ample legroom. A counter-height stool typically ranges from 65 to 70 cm, while a bar stool is generally 75 to 80 cm in height. Take note of the height difference in the two images: one provides no legroom, while the other offers ample space.  Decoist.com  Elan Kitchens 

 "The distance between each stool is just as important as the height of the stool itself. Each stool requires a minimum of 60cm of space. When considering the number of stools, consider the width of the legs and whether the protruding legs could potentially damage the front of the bench when moved in and out. In the case of islands with three stools or more, three stools are often considered the perfect amount to create an aesthetically pleasing arrangement, as odd numbers generally look best. However, if you have four children, each requiring a seat, ensure enough space between each seat for comfort. Even if you have a long island that can accommodate ten stools, it's best to avoid overcrowding; ideally, place three stools at one end." Room for ten stools doesn't mean you need to add ten stools, it's not a cafeteria.  Zen Living  Freedom Kitchens  Pinterest  Pinterest  Decorilla.com

Small island bench, two pendant lights, or just one at one end of the bench, larger island ideally three, three I feel should be the maximum, again the odd number rule, 1, 3, or 5. Choose a sturdy style of shade, thin glass breaks easily. It is best to keep the cooktop and oven to a wall rather than the island. A proper exhaust is important to quickly remove airborne grease particles. Pendants placed over a cooktop will become greasy and dusty very quickly, as will open shelving. The first image is from  Architectural Digest. There is no island but a timber table, over which is a stunning pendant, fitting in beautifully with the kitchen design.  The next image from Thptlaihoa.edu.vn shows a stylish long island.  If the three lights are spread along the island, they would look too far apart, so they have gathered the three at one end. These things are often just what looks right. Pendants too close will look just as bad. I would place the stools at the other end for balance. The third image is from The Spruce and is a perfect example of the correct number of lights and correctly spaced, hopefully there is ample elbow room between each stool.  The next two images are from Decorilla. The three pendant lights are perfect for the space and the stunning white pendant light is a stylish addition. Decorilla.com Decorilla.com

Kitchen exhaust hoods are a vital component of any kitchen. Proper ventilation is essential for maintaining good air quality inside our homes. They are designed to eliminate smoke, heat, and grease from the air, and also provide lighting directly over the cooktop. If possible, it's best to have the cooktop against a wall rather than on an island. However, if you have an island in your kitchen, you may opt for an island range hood suspended from the ceiling directly over the cooktop, although they can be quite dominant. An alternative is a retractable downdraft hood, which is installed directly into countertops and vents air down into ductwork beneath the floor. Kitchen range hood designs now vary greatly in terms of shapes, materials, and sizes. They can be made of materials like plaster, wood, metal, and marble, offering a wide range of options beyond the traditional stainless steel appliances. Image one Pinterest  Image two Zen Living Image three Viral Homes  Image four Viral Homes 

Here we have a selection of stunning bathrooms. Every element in each bathroom is special, not boring or predictable, and carefully selected for uniqueness. Which style appeals to you? Handmade tiles add texture to the walls with an irregular surface and colour variations. Choose real marble, not tiles that look like marble, always get the real thing, or don't use it at all. Don't use feature tiles, do a wall in one tile and another wall in another tile, that is similar but not the same, maybe just a different or contrasting colour, even if it's just the gloss level you vary, the effect can be stunning, yet subtle. Add vinyl wallpaper instead of painting where the tiles don't go if you like. Don't use tiles on every wall, just where tiles are necessary, with a myriad of paint colours, choose a gorgeous colour to compliment the tiles.  Images from Nicoline Beerkens  Architectural Digest  West One Bathrooms  Pinterest 

Colour is back, so why not start with the bathroom, or a powder room, rooms that you spend less time in. Tiling every wall can be expensive, so obviously, the shower and vanity back splashback are essential. Why not incorporate a gorgeous paint colour or vinyl wallpaper. The first bathroom by hgtv.com is a beautiful mix of tile and paint. The tiles are balanced out by the coral walls, brass hardware, and stunning art tying all the colors together.  The yellow bathroom by  Architecture Art Design is a bold choice but it works beautifully especially as the ceiling, doors, and window frame in white. The third image from Pinterest has the ceiling painted aqua with the same colour on the walls but in quarter strength, that way they will have the same tone. The secret to choosing a colour is to look at a selection and choose the most appealing to you, then you will always love the colour. 

Here are examples of decor for two different rooms. The first selection consists of items that will quickly go out of style and become tiresome. These bold elements are hard to look at. The black, white, timber and green colour scheme is losing its appeal as colour trends are making a comeback. When trends become common, it's important to follow your own style and choose things that you love. The second selection features a softer look with muted tones that are easy on the eyes. While many people opt for items with a "wow" factor, combining too many of these elements can be overwhelming. To ensure a cohesive look, create an image like the one above to ensure that no element stands out too much and everything blends well. The colours can be light and subtle or bold and colourful as long as they complement each other. Temple & Webster 

Many people have their laundry located in a cupboard, which could be in the kitchen, hallway, or a room adjacent to the exterior of the home. If you have a spacious laundry area, it likely indicates that you have a family. Therefore, it's important to consider durable materials for your laundry space. This includes a tiled floor, a tiled splashback, a stainless steel laundry tub, stainless steel tapware, and most importantly, a laminated benchtop. Avoid using timber, even if it is sealed correctly, as it can be prone to denting, scratching, and water damage. While stone benches are expensive, investing in granite or man-made composites for the kitchen and bathrooms is a good idea. Laminates are the most durable and resilient benchtops available, lasting easily 10 to 15 years or more. Here are some examples of laminate benches, which look stunning. If your kitchen has a stone bench, choose a contrasting or similar laminate to complement it. There are various profiles available, and the squareform profile, in particular, offers a seamless and modern look. I would not recommend the bullnose profile, as water or liquids on the bench can track under and fall on the cupboard front, causing the cupboard bottom to damage and swell. Make sure that the laminate you choose is available in your preferred profile, as not all laminates can be bent. Laminex.com Polytec.com Laminated Benchtopscom.au

Please consider the following guidelines when choosing a rug for your dining room: 1. The shape of your dining table should match the shape of your dining room. For example, if you have a round table, choose a round rug; for a square table, opt for a square rug, and for a rectangular table, select a rectangular rug. 2. Make sure that the rug is large enough to accommodate all the table legs and chairs. This will create a harmonious and balanced look in the dining area. 3. A rug not only defines the dining space but also adds style and comfort. However, if you can't find the right size rug, it's better to go without one. 4. The correct size rug is crucial; a rug that is too small will cause problems when moving the chairs and will look out of place. 5. Avoid using a round rug for a square table or a rectangular table, as it will appear mismatched and out of place.  Freedom.com.au  LoungeLovers.com.au Wayfair.com 

What elements make a bedroom different or unique? Whether large or small, a bedroom can be special if you work with the space you have. A small bedroom should have minimal furniture, a basic bed, side tables, and maybe a dresser. For a larger bedroom with a walk-in robe, a dresser in the room is not necessary. Try to keep furniture away from the bed and consider separating the space into two sections for a more comfortable layout. In a large room, an oversized comfy chaise with a side table might be a great addition, creating a cozy corner for relaxation without disturbing the made bed. The rooms in the example above are spacious, and the structural design enhances the overall feel of the space. It's important to think beyond the standard bed when designing a bedroom. Roohome.com 

Ideally, the bedhead should be placed on the largest wall that does not have windows or a door in it. Also when walking into a bedroom you don't want to see the side of the bed, rather the bed should be placed in front of you and placed in the centre.  If possible, keep all furniture away from the windows, and allow for circulation of air and natural light, putting a bed in front of a window will make the room look smaller especially if the bed has a solid headboard.  Make the placement of the bed a priority, other elements in the room must take second place. The first image by thediyplaybook.com shows the perfect style of bedhead for being in front of a window. The rungs allow plenty of light to enter and the windows are accessible. There will always be situations where the room dictates due to windows, doors, and cupboards, so do the best you can with what you have.  The second image again shows the perfect headboard in this charming room bythespruce.com The third image from home-designing.com shows a room with lots in it, maybe more of an office than a bedroom. I feel that the head of the bed should be opposite the door where the cupboards are, though still a lovely style. 

Please remember the following points about displaying family images: Consider keeping family images private by displaying them in areas like an upstairs passageway, rather than showcasing them by the front door. It can feel intrusive to have personal family portraits on display as guests enter your home. A gallery wall, such as the one featured on thecreativityexchange.com, is a great example. It allows you to display personal items collected over the years in an office setting. Pay attention to the size of the wall when arranging your display, as seen in the large, tall wall example from thefinancialdiet.com. The images should reflect the size of the wall. Balance is crucial. The colours in the images can bring life to a plain white wall, but on a dark wall, they might be less effective. Finally, the neat and orderly format for a gallery, as shown in the fourth image, is a good example to follow. Be mindful not to overcrowd the display with too many images. Pinterest  thecreativityexchange.com

Coffee tables are available in various materials, colours, sizes, and shapes. They can be made of painted white timber, dark timber, glass, metal, cane, or concrete, and come in round, square, or rectangle shapes. It's important to consider the coffee table as a key element in your overall style and design. Choose a unique table that complements your furniture. You can opt for a rich timber, whether light or dark, to match your furniture, or add a vibrant colour if it suits your decorating style. The ideal height for coffee tables is around 40 to 45cm, similar to the height of your sofa cushions.  1. kingliving.com  2. designcraft.net.au  3. fentonandfenton.com.au 4. trithouse.com.au 5. livingstyles.com.au 5. livingstyles.com.au

A well-balanced room consists of three sections: the floor, walls, and the ceiling. This can often be observed in hotel foyers, where every element in the room is carefully considered to achieve a stunning design. Embrace every surface, as this style does not leave any walls, ceilings, or floors bare. Over time, acquire treasures for your home that serve as reminders of the places you have been and the people you have met, making it personal. Pinterest  Elle Decor Decorilla.com 

"If we are fortunate and choose wisely, we can have elements that will not date. A leather sofa is a classic example, and industrial lighting is essential for a loft. Rich browns and tans, the colours of nature, along with leopard skin cushions and luxurious velvets, as well as the warmth and beauty of brick, can be incorporated both inside and outside the home. Whether it's the interior decor or the exterior facade with the colours of nature, you can't go wrong."  designconundrum.com amara.com  lmhome.com.au  lmhome.com.au 

Furniture stores are typically spacious, and the items may seem smaller than they actually are. A $200 delivery charge can quickly turn into $1000 if the furniture needs to be dismantled or lifted up through a neighbour's veranda. Issues may arise at the front door, in the lift or stairwell, and finally in the intended room. Before making a purchase, use the measurements provided in the store, take them home, and assess whether the furniture can fit through each door, lift, or stairwell. This will help you avoid unnecessary stress and financial loss. To determine if the furniture fits inside your home, mark out its shape on the floor using, for example, a pack of cards. Imagine walking around the piece to see if it's too big or too small for the room. The room's dimensions should dictate your decision, rather than what you see in a spacious showroom. people.com  ramsaysmoving.com 

"Modern powder rooms, despite their small size, are crucial functional spaces in the home. They should provide everyday convenience for families and guests while maintaining a stylish appearance. When deciding on a style, consider if the style needs to be in keeping with a nearby main bathroom or a stand-alone space. A separate room offers the opportunity to choose a gorgeous wallpaper, which is affordable as only a small amount is required. Don't just paint the walls a vibrant colour; consider adding wallpaper, maybe painting the ceiling, choosing beautiful tapware, a toilet,  a mirror, stunning lighting, and of course, tiling the floor. Impress your guests with your creative talent." ctinstyle.com  ctinstyle.com   livinator.com  wallmirrors.eu 

Avoid creating a statement wall or wallpapering only one side of a four-sided room. Opt for wallpapering the entire room instead of the dated ‘feature wall’ for maximum impact and a finished look. The only time I would use wallpaper as a feature wall would be in a teens  or child's room or a nursery.  However, certain wallpapers can be visually tiring and too busy. These types and patterns are best used above a wainscot rather than on all the walls. Intense wallpapers work well in less frequented spaces, like a powder room with wainscoting. Be cautious with patterns: avoid small prints in large rooms and large prints in small rooms, as a small pattern in a large space can become tiring quickly, and a large print can overpower a small space. Either way, you may become sick of the wallpaper quickly, so choose an appropriate design. There’s nothing quite like wallpaper for giving instant color and style to a room. If you’re not keen on busy patterns, look for wallpapers with texture, such as grasscloth. This will lend the room an interesting textural appeal.  Remember the base colour should represent the depth of colour in the room, black base - dark room, white base, light room. You have to like colour and pattern to be a fan of wallpaper.  wallpaperdirect.com  wallpaperdirect.com   wallpaperdirect.com   wallpaperdirect.com  wallpaperdirect.com wallpaperdirect.com  wallpaperdirect.com  wallpaperdirect.com  wallpaperdirect.com wallpaperdirect.com  wallpaperdirect.com  wallpaperdirect.com   

New Ravenna has established a reputation for having the world’s most exquisite collection of custom stone and glass mosaics, featuring luxurious designs of marble, glass, metals, and stone. Elevate your bathroom or kitchen with unique and stunning designs that stand the test of time. By using natural elements and timeless, cutting-edge designs, your space will never feel dated. These mosaics are durable for both floors and walls, offering exceptional quality.  revertilers.com.au

There are four main types of floor tiles: terracotta, quarry, porcelain, and ceramic. Each type has different qualities, but ceramic tiles are often preferred for their affordability, especially for large areas. When choosing ceramic tiles, opt for ones with a cushion edge rather than a rectified edge, as they are cheaper and easier to lay.

Tiles are graded from 1 to 5, with Grade 1 being the thinnest and Grade 5 being the thickest. It's recommended to aim for Grade 4. The body of a tile, also known as the bisque or biscuit, should have a light grey base rather than an orange clay look.

Ceramics are man-made to resemble natural stone or concrete, with some having minimal patterns and textures while others have a more pronounced appearance.

If you live in a predominantly cold climate, tiles may not be the best option as they tend to be cold. Consider installing underfloor heating, especially in bathrooms and kitchens, where tiles are the best flooring option due to their durability and resistance to staining.

Keep grout lines to a minimum and opt for a soft grey colour that complements any tile colour. When choosing floor tiles, aim for a size that complements the overall design, such as the 600 x 600 tile. Select a tile that harmonizes with the existing elements in the space, such as timber, kitchen and bathroom cupboards, carpet, and wall colour, for continuity. Choose a simple finish to ensure the tile doesn't quickly become dated, and ensure the surface has some texture for safety, especially in wet conditions. Some large floor tiles have an arrow impression on the back, indicating each tile should be laid in the same direction to counter any manufacturing edge discrepancies. Cement tiles are colourful, handcrafted tiles known for their high durability. Here, we have a combination of ceramic and cement tiles that work beautifully together. Colour variations are expected—lighter, darker, less or more intensely hued—making each tile unique. Cement tiles are porous, meaning they can absorb liquids and stains if not properly sealed. However, with proper installation and maintenance, including sealing before and after grouting and periodic resealing, cement tiles can last for decades. In moisture-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms, the porous nature of cement tiles can be a concern, so consider ceramic tiles instead. By combining ceramic and cement tiles, one can balance out the other with patterns and plain designs. wayfair.com 

The perfect piece of art hanging on your wall will always be a source of joy and inspiration. Choose art that means something to you, rather than a piece found in all the decorator's shops, where many of the same prints are sold repeatedly. That type of art is short-lived and will date quickly. A stunning piece of abstract art can be the anchor for the colours in the room. You can make the room light and airy with warm whites or dark and moody with the rich colours above. Also, aim for unique furniture and decor. Don't rush to buy important pieces. Look around, take your time, and you will be rewarded.  templeandwebster.com.au

Whether it's fabric, paint colour, a rug, or a piece of furniture painted raspberry, the colour stands out. Raspberry, as a colour, originates from the natural world, specifically from the fruit that shares its name. Raspberry shades vary from delicate pinks to deep, bold reds; colours in this family can be used to dramatic effect or to infuse subtle warmth. Welcoming and warm, the raspberry shade transforms a room, whether it's a bedroom, kitchen, lounge room, or powder room. It's a delicious hue that combines well with deep orange and a hint of pink to create a deeply satisfying feel, forming an analogous colour palette. Its unique depth makes it perfect for adding a touch of elegance and intensity to any design. Surprisingly, it is not a particularly common colour, but when you search for it, you will find it. Often, the more unique the colour, the more expensive and harder it is to find. Choosing the right colour is as much about creating a mood for your home as it expresses your personality. Remember, the selection of colours can determine the ambience of your space making it uniquely you.   mintwithraspberry.blogspot.com benjaminmoore.com pinterest spoonflower.com wayfair.com