Styling to Live

KittaColin - Limited Edition $990.00

Living Small, Living Smart: Unveiling the Magic of Multifunctional Furniture

In the quest for sustainable living and the art of thriving in modest spaces, exploring the realm of multifunctional furniture has become a little quest for me. I am delving into the world of transformative design, seeking not only functional pieces but tangible solutions to our modern space challenges.

 

Unlocking the Potential of Small Spaces

Small spaces are not constraints; they’re canvases waiting to be adorned with ingenious designs. Multifunctional furniture can be the joy of space optimisation. It’s about more than just aesthetics; it’s a revolutionary approach to harmonising our living spaces.

 

The Multifaceted Magic of Transformative Furniture

 

Here are just a few designs I have discovered that I think are rather fabulous;

 

  • Australian-made KittaParts Modular Shelving: These versatile shelves are not just storage; they are dynamic spatial sculptures. Crafted from durable timber, the KittaParts system can be easily assembled and reconfigured, empowering you to adapt your space effortlessly. The beauty lies not just in their simple aesthetics appeal but in the different ways they cater for your ever-changing storage needs be it shelves, console, bench, phonebench, for your vinyl, standing desk etc. (Check out all the different adaptable ways here). Also the fab pic on our cover, KittaColin – Limited Edition
    $990.00 🙂

 

  • Caramella Counter Sofa: Beyond being a gorgeous minimal couch, the Caramella Counter Sofa is a design brainwave. It seamlessly functions as a desk, a dining area, and even a place to hold storage. The natural wood texture elevates it from mere furniture to a calming, Japandi statement piece, powering a new lifestyle that prioritises upgraded functionality and quality. (Discover it here). For the DIYs, here is a simple sofa bed system that you can do at home.

 

  • Murphy Beds: An oldie but a goodie, these beds are not merely places to sleep; they are guardians of space, that recently have had a gorgeous refresh. By folding up against the wall, Murphy beds liberate precious living areas, offering spacious environments in small homes or apartments. Their genius lies in the fusion of comfort and space efficiency, a perfect marriage for those valuing every inch of their living space. (Check this one out – super cool).

 

  • Wall-Mounted Tables/Desks: Aesthetic appeal meets practicality with foldable furniture. Wall-mounted tables are not just stylish; they are functional artistry. Maximising dining areas while minimising visual clutter, these innovative pieces add a touch of elegance to limited living spaces. The foldaway wall desk, in particular, is a clever space-saving solution, allowing for an ergonomically sound workspace that seamlessly integrates with your home. (See examples here).

 

  • Multifunctional Desk/Table/Trolley: Born out of the necessity of remote work, these pieces are not mere workstations; they are adaptive allies in the evolution of your home office. Responding to the challenges of a changing work landscape, these multifunctional designs cater to your dynamic needs, ensuring that your workspace is as flexible as you are. Check out Fem with Fyra – Multifunctional desk for any space here.

 

Beyond the Usual: Exploring Innovative Designs

 

  • Island-Table Hybrid: This design innovation is not just a kitchen essential; it’s a space-saving piece. Integrating kitchen functionality with dining versatility, these pieces defy the sacrifice of a kitchen island in small spaces. Its extendable feature adds an extra layer of practicality, making it indispensable for those who love to entertain without compromising daily space.

  • Hybrid Chair by Studio Lorier: More than a chair, this lounger is a testament to adaptability. It transforms effortlessly into a desk chair, aligning itself with the ebb and flow of your day. Studio Lorier’s creation is not just furniture; it’s an embodiment of the dynamic needs of contemporary living.
  • Bookshelf Room Divider: This is not merely a bookshelf; it’s a spatial storyteller. Acting as both storage and a room divider, this multifunctional piece offers a versatile and functional solution for dividing spaces while providing ample storage. Its shelves, reaching from floor to ceiling, not only maximise space utilisation but also add aesthetic value, making it an ideal choice for open-plan living or studio apartments. (More here).

 

A Sustainable Future, One Design at a Time

In a world pulsating with urban challenges, the power of design to transform lives cannot be overstated. Multifunctional furniture emerges not only as a solution to spatial constraints but as a testament to our commitment to a sustainable future. It’s an ode to versatility, adaptability, and the limitless potential that lies within our smaller living spaces.

 

What are the Possibilities for the Next 5 Years?

So what are the possibilities? A great friend, and pretty talented futurist of mine, James, Insight and Foresight, wrote about how smart robots can redefine domestic space usage and I was pretty blown away.

Check it out here to get your brain juices flowing.

 

Last But Not Least – Small Footprint – A Never Too Small Limited Series

By 2050, seven in ten people will live in a city. Will they be happy?

Cities. Overcrowded concrete jungles, damaging to us and to our planet. By 2050, seven in ten people will live in a city, but will they be happy? Innovators, architects, urban planners, and designers believe they can b

e. They see urban life as an asset, a chance for community and wellbeing driven by smart design.

At the forefront, in Australia, architects Nicholas Gurney and Brad Swartz are rewriting the rules for an ideal home by repurposing existing small homes and apartments. Planners and academics Rob Adams and Jefa Greenaway fight to change the face of our cities for the better. All in support of a unique idea, that our cities can be the happiest, healthiest places on earth.

Across six 10-minute episodes, they will explore the philosophies and meet the thinkers, planners, and designers that are shaping the future of our cities. Definitely worth the watch here.

 

Have you seen any fabulous pieces worth sharing?

As I continue this exploration into the realms of sustainable living, I invite you to join, share your discoveries, your favourite designs, and your challenges. Let’s build a community passionate about smart and considered living.

Here’s to living small, living smart, and making a world of difference—one multifunctional piece at a time. ✨

Big love,

Aisha xox

0

Rug 101 | Laying down the basics

Revamping your space? A swift update to your floor coverings can wield an IMMENSE impact. One common query we encounter from clients is, “Which rug would best suit my space? What type, size, or style should I choose? Can I go bold or plush?” The questions—and choices—seem endless. So, I’ve crafted a little RUG 101 to guide you through this labyrinth.

Let’s dive in.

Topics We’ll Explore:

1. Loop Pile vs. Cut Pile vs. Weave
2. Different Wool Mixes
3. Choosing the Right Rug for Your Space

One fabulous thing to note is the choice is wonderfully endless.

An array of opulent and magnificent options exists across various budgets. Aesthetics, warmth, convenience, sustainability, wellness impact, acoustic insulation, durability, and maintenance ease—all factors to contemplate.

Virtually all rugs and carpets fall into two categories: Machine-made and handcrafted. While machine-made creations are gaining traction due to advanced techniques yielding more luxurious versions, we still hold a preference for traditional handcrafting. Nothing quite matches the allure of artisanal practices and the sheer uniqueness and beauty each piece possesses.

Breaking it down

1/ Loop Pile: A rug with a loop pile retains fibers that ARE NOT CUT. This type of carpet, constructed from several loops of carpet fiber, maintains its woven shape. Variations in loop fiber height can also form a patterned loop.

The appeal of a loop pile lies in its ability to obscure vacuum lines and footprints while being slightly less soft/plush underfoot. Berber and sisal stand out as two of the most popular varieties within the loop pile category.

Source: Pinterest [Berber/Boucle rug]


Source: Pinterest [Sisal rug]

2/ Cut pile: In cut pile carpets, the fiber loops are precisely CUT. This process exposes the ends of the carpet fiber, resulting in an upright pile. Cut pile rugs are generally softer than loop pile varieties and boast an array of lengths and thicknesses. Among the most favored cut pile styles are Saxony and Frieze.

Saxony cut piles are known for their plush and uniform appearance, ideal for areas with low traffic due to their susceptibility to showing footprints and vacuum marks. On the other hand, Frieze cut piles flaunt a more textured and casual appearance, their twisted fibers rendering them more resilient against matting and crushing.

Source: Pinterest [Saxony rug]

Source: Pinterest [Frieze rug]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3/ Weave: Woven carpets represent a premium product predominantly crafted from wool or a wool-based blend. Adopting a traditional rug-making method, these carpets are meticulously woven using a loom. The individual carpet strands are tightly woven into the backing, resulting in a sturdy and long-lasting piece. The durability of its structure means that a woven carpet can endure up to three times longer than a tufted carpet, making it a remarkable investment for long-term use.

The intricate weaving process grants woven carpets their exceptional strength and resilience, making them well-suited for areas with high foot traffic. Their remarkable endurance and classic appearance make woven carpets an elegant and enduring addition to any space.

For centuries, wool carpets have maintained a stellar reputation for their exceptional quality and resilience. Even in contemporary times, they remain a popular choice not only for residential spaces but also in the construction and hospitality industries due to their inherent luxuriousness. Wool, being a robust natural fiber, possesses remarkable aesthetic appeal and retention qualities. With proper care, wool carpets exhibit impressive durability, making them a worthwhile investment when considering an upgrade for your flooring.

Wool carpets typically come in two primary types: 100% wool carpets and those comprising an 80/20 wool mix. Both variations offer versatility in their usage, adaptable as either area rugs or in the broadloom style, which extends seamlessly from wall to wall. The flexibility in configuration allows for tailored solutions, catering to diverse preferences and functional requirements in various spaces.

Source: nuLoom

100% Wool Carpet:
100% wool carpet, often referred to as natural or New Zealand wool, distinguishes itself by its softness and lighter shade, particularly suitable for neutral or lighter color schemes. In contrast, British wool is denser, sturdier, and possesses a unique texture. Merino wool sourced from New Zealand is widely regarded for its superior quality. Apart from sheep wool, natural wool carpets can be crafted from various animals with similarly textured coats like llamas, alpacas, goats, and camels.

80/20 Wool Carpet / Wool Mix Carpet:
While wool inherently exhibits strength and performance, in certain scenarios, manufacturers blend it with other fibers, commonly synthetics, resulting in 80/20 wool carpets or wool blends. These blends are preferred to enhance fiber flexibility, stain resistance, and durability. They also simplify dyeing and printing processes. The combination of 80% wool with 20% synthetic fibers, such as nylon or polyester, has gained popularity due to the enhanced qualities it brings to wool-based carpets.

New Addition: Carpet Tiles

Carpet tiles are small swatches of broadloom carpet, designed to be laid and combined in diverse artistic arrangements. Often termed “modular carpets” or “carpet squares,” these tiles typically come in square shapes, including sizes like 48×48, 50×50, 60×60, and 96x96cm. Additionally, some manufacturers offer rectangular planks, providing a range of creative options.

In recent times, carpets have emerged as prominent elements in distinctive interior designs, gaining popularity for their ability to introduce color, comfort, and warmth. While modern designs often lean towards hard surfaces and sleek tiles, carpets offer designers extensive creative liberty. Carpet tiles, bridging this gap, amalgamate versatility in design and ease of installation, striking a balance between aesthetics and practicality.

Source: Flor

Breaking it down by space

For the Living Room
The living room stands as the heart of a home. When selecting a rug for this space, multiple elements should intertwine to express your individuality, infuse character into the space, and cater to the daily love the floor receives.

Choosing According to Design Style

Area rugs wield the power to completely transform a living space, setting the tone for furniture, artwork, and decor. They greatly influence the room’s formality and style, serving as a foundational piece.

Color and Materials

Consider the practicality of rug colors and materials. Darker hues and resilient fibers like wool are advisable for homes with pets or young children, offering durability and easy maintenance. For comfort enthusiasts, opt for luxuriant bamboo silk or the velvety richness of silk rugs, providing a sumptuous underfoot experience. Hosting frequent gatherings? Prioritize easy-to-clean materials to alleviate post-party stress.

Size and Functionality

The size of the rug plays a pivotal role. A small rug may diminish in significance amidst other décor, while an excessively large one might engulf the space, causing it to feel cramped. To strike a balance, let furniture guide your decision-making process. Alternatively, allowing the rug to end a few inches before the sofa can create a proportional and spacious feel. An ideal-sized and colored rug can become a captivating focal point, sparking conversations effortlessly.

Textures and Maintenance

While a plush velvet or shaggy rug might appeal aesthetically, they are better suited for spaces with minimal foot traffic, requiring additional care and upkeep. Consider the rug’s interaction with lighting; for instance, viscose material reflects light differently, altering its appearance based on natural and internal lighting. Its sheen may vary depending on the light, adding dynamic visual depth to your living space.

 

Source: Nordic knots

 

Rugs for dining

In many modern homes featuring open-plan layouts, the absence of a distinct dining room necessitates a clear demarcation of this space.

The ideal dining room rug serves a multifaceted purpose. Not only does it safeguard the flooring, but it also acts as an anchor, defining the dining area and contributing significantly to the desired aesthetic—be it formal, relaxed, or a bold statement piece.

Opt for rugs that make a bold impact while considering the functionality of the space. Pale-colored rugs might not be the most practical choice for areas prone to spills or messes, so it’s crucial to balance aesthetic appeal with practicality and usability in a dining setting.

 

Size of the Rug in Relation to Room Dimensions
In the dining room, the central feature is undoubtedly the dining table. Hence, accurately measuring the table becomes crucial before selecting a suitable rug.

To ensure a well-balanced and visually appealing setting, leave an even space on each side of the table, preferably around 65-70 cm larger than the table’s perimeter. For more spacious dining areas with ample room between furniture and walls, opting for a larger rug is advisable. Ideally, every furniture leg should rest on the rug to create a cohesive look. Additionally, selecting a rug that mirrors the shape of your dining table—whether round, oval, or rectangular—can further enhance the aesthetic appeal of the space.

Materials
Considering the substantial weight of furniture, frequent chair movement, and daily use, dining room rugs demand robust and durable materials. Opt for materials like wool—a resilient and sturdy natural fiber that is well-suited to endure the demands of this high-traffic area. Though durable rugs might have a higher initial cost, they are indeed a long-term investment that ensures longevity and reliability for years to come.


Source: RA’N interior design                                                                           Source: The house of silver lining

 

Rugs for the Bedroom: A Comforting Touch

Selecting a rug for your bedroom is more than a decorative choice; it’s an integral part of creating a cozy and inviting space where comfort meets aesthetics. The rug in your bedroom should be a reflection of your personal style while also providing functionality and warmth.

Begin with Precision in Measurements:

The starting point for finding the perfect bedroom rug is accurate measurement. Consider measuring the size of your bed to determine the ideal rug dimensions. Allow around 60-70 centimeters of space on either side of the bed, extending beyond the bed’s edges, to maintain proportion and balance in the room.

Embrace Size for Impact:

Considering the size of the bedroom itself is crucial. Interior designers often recommend having the rug extend approximately 25 centimeters off each wall, accentuating the room’s spaciousness and adding an inviting allure.

When in Doubt, Opt for Larger:

If unsure about sizing, it’s better to choose a larger rug. A larger rug creates a sense of luxury and coziness, complementing the room’s ambiance. An adequately sized rug envelops the space, enhancing the overall aesthetics and functionality of the room.

Functionality Matters:

In a bedroom, functionality intertwines with style. For a child’s bedroom, consider a rug with a greater surface area, providing a plush and soft surface. Is the rug intended to cover an existing floor you’re not fond of? In that case, opt for a size that adequately conceals the flooring you wish to downplay.

Placement is Key:

The rug’s placement in the bedroom is pivotal. Placing the rug perpendicular to the bed is a classic approach that frames the furniture and creates a focal point. It should feel like a natural extension of the room rather than just an add-on.

Adapting to Different Floor Types:

For bedrooms with hardwood floors, a strategically placed smaller rug can provide a soft landing for your feet as you get in and out of bed. The intention here is to add warmth and comfort without overpowering the room.

The bedroom rug serves as more than just a floor covering; it’s a foundational element that ties the room together, offering comfort, style, and a touch of luxury to your personal sanctuary.


Source: Pinterest

 

Rug Placement Tips

Living Room: The placement of a rug in the living room often depends on the room’s size and furniture arrangement. In smaller spaces, a larger rug that accommodates all furniture can create a unifying effect, positioned to float within the furniture arrangement, possibly under the coffee table. Conversely, larger rooms benefit from a larger rug that frames the space. Using multiple rugs can define distinct sections within the room, offering a unique touch and breaking up the space creatively.

Dining Room: Rug placement in the dining room primarily caters to the dining experience. Ensure the rug is sufficiently large to encompass all chairs comfortably around the dining table, even when pulled out for seating. It’s crucial to avoid chairs straddling the rug’s edge when pulled out. To ensure a perfect fit, measure the area once the chairs are moved away from the table.

Bedroom: The bed’s size determines the optimal placement of a rug in the bedroom. One common method is to partially tuck the rug under the bed, aligning it parallel to the bed’s frame and sliding it underneath, stopping just short of the nightstands. This positioning places roughly half the rug under the bed, with the bed centrally aligned. When positioning rugs in any room, take advantage of their ability to create visual illusions that enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the space.

 

Each room’s unique layout and furniture arrangement offer opportunities to use rugs to define areas, add visual interest, and complement the overall design. Tailoring the rug placement to suit the function of each room optimizes the space while adding comfort and style.

Source: Fengshui by Bridget

 

Few elements within a home possess the decor-enhancing capabilities of a rug. It holds the unmatched potential to infuse a space with intrigue, charm, and personality, whether it serves as the room’s focal point, the final flourish, or as a spatial divider.

When seeking the perfect rug, consider its intended use, anticipated foot traffic, the appropriate size, suitable materials, and whether investing a bit more for durability and stain resistance is worthwhile. Your choice will undoubtedly impact the room’s ambiance and practicality.

We hope this information has offered some clarity. Stay tuned for the second part of this blog, where we delve into rugs for various spaces and explore effective maintenance tips.

 

Enjoy your rug journey.

 

Big love,

Aisha xox

Source: Good house keeping

0

Part 2 | Some Easy Tips to Get Your Feng Shui Qi On

Designing individual rooms with Feng Shui

As the new year brings in new possibilities and dreams, I throw the question out there…. who would love some more balance, flow, space and quiet moments in 2023?

 

I can comfortably say, I WOULD LOVE MORE PLEASE!

 

So, I thought now was a great time to share part 2, a deeper dive into Feng Shui, to help us start creating more balance and harmony in our homes.

 

It’s not difficult and with just a few simple changes we can attempt to start 2023 with a deeper, slower and calmer, B R E A T H …

 

BTW, if you want to recap on where Feng Shui comes from and how it works, read our Part 1 – Feng Shui : What it means and it’s adaptation in everyday spaces here.

Source : Stone mountain and casting

The flow of energies is one of the fundamental principles of Feng Shui. Each room has a different function and has different rules around flow.

 

This Chinese art of living emphasises certain basic rules in terms of layout, color selection, and material selection for a more serene environment. The key is to find contentment and to create a life oriented on well-being!

 

Let’s get right into it…

For the living room

A square or rectangle is the ideal Feng Shui layout for a living room, however these principles can be used in unusual or L-shaped living room arrangements.

 

Qi (good energy) will inherently be present in nooks. They are therefore perfect for activities that require slower, more relaxed energy. For nooks, having a reading corner with an armchair is ideal. Or it could be a perfect place to have a little desk for work, to slow down and focus.

 

When arranging the room, start with the biggest piece of furniture (typically a sofa), place it against a wall, ideally the one farthest from the entry, facing a door or other opening, and leave at least 10cm space between it and the wall. If you have extra pieces, like lounger or occasional chairs, place it so it promotes conversation. Avoid cramming the area. The intention is to encourage energy flow. Avoid choosing a coffee table with sharp angles. Simply contrast the shapes in the smaller elements if a circle or oval feels too out of balance with the rest of your furnishings.

Source : Peter Molick

For the bedroom

According to Feng Shui, some colours encourage calm feelings and deep sleep in the bedroom. We all want that. Select subdued colours like off-white, cream and taupe. Another excellent technique to encourage calm in your bedroom is to rearrange the layout of the space. 

 

According to Feng Shui, pairings foster a loving, harmonious spirit. Choose pairs if at all possible. That means having two nightstands, pillows, lamps, etc. To assist you to decide what should be in your environment to evoke the five senses, consult a Bagua map. Smell with lavendar essential oils, touch with soft bedding, earth tones through imagery, art or wallpaper. You can go for all five with lemon water for taste and calming white noise for sound.

 

Start with your bed and position it far from the doorway but not immediately facing it, just as you would in the living room. Avoid placing too many electrical devices close to where you sleep.

 

Avoid placing a television in your personal space if feasible. This frequently becomes the center of attention in the space, which lessens the relaxing energy. Combine masculine and feminine details, pick soft-coloured linens if your bed frame is made of metal or wood. Put comfy furnishings in your bedroom to entice a peaceful, calming spirit. This balance can be enhanced by the use of green and blue colours.

Source : Mind Body Green

Bathroom tips

The bathroom has more purposes than just performing everyday cleaning and preparation tasks. When decorated Feng Shui-style, it can assist in expelling negative energy and receiving good Qi. The bathroom receives strong energy in addition to your bedroom and kitchen, which can improve your wellbeing.

 

Regardless of where the bathroom is located, there are various solutions if you’re concerned that it will clog the energy drain. To start, green, green, green, bring in those plants and let the positive, cleansing energy flow. Next, not a very used technique, but it works, you can raise the Qi by hanging a mirror from the ceiling over the toilet. Next, to stop that energy from leaking into the rest of your house, always keep the bathroom door closed. Finally, you can take steps to maintain the bathroom’s functionality as well as its ongoing cleanliness, freshness, and organisation.

Source : DBS Bathroom

Kitchen Qi tips

The kitchen in your home symbolises the Feng Shui element of fire due to the stove. A kitchen in the middle of the house represents a fire at the home’s heart, which might attract unfavourable energy and luck. Don’t fear we have some tips to help increase the Qi coming up.

 

Just for reference, a favourable Feng Shui position places the kitchen in the north or northeast, as well as the south or southwest corner of the home. Now I know we can’t move the kitchen in our home but we can definitely set it up for the best Feng Shui possible.

 

Deep-clean your appliances, clear the countertops and make sure everything has a place in storage to get it ready for favourable Feng Shui. To keep everything clear and out of the way, use concealed storage options like pantry storage boxes, cabinet door hooks and drawer organisers. You know we love a storage solution and organiser. Keep blades sharpened and replace any crockery, cooking utensils or other objects that are cracked or non-functional.

 

The earth element’s yellows and beiges, which are connected to health and relationships, are the best paint colours to integrate into this space according to Feng Shui.

Source : KRB Kitchen and design

Positivity, balance and flow are captured by knowing how to provide harmony, serenity with your Qi.

 

You want your home to feel welcoming, comfortable and a safe place to live your best life in.

 

Decluttering is always is such a great start to get the positive energy flowing and a new year. Look around and see if you can make a few tweaks to get you started.

 

Although Feng Shui is definitely not our speciality, we do continue to try and learn and integrate it into the homes we curate.

 

We are always here to help you get your Feng Shui on, so book a consult if you would like some more zen, flow and organisation in your life.

Big love,

Aisha xox

Source : Extra space
0

Styling & Decluttering Ideas for Back to School

We are well into 2022 and the back to school (let alone getting back into the work routine) can be daunting, a bit chaotic, especially since so many of us have been home schooling for so long. We are all about lightening your load, simplifying the everyday and setting the home up for successful mornings, productive afternoons and calm, super chilled (tantrum free) evenings.

 

 

We have curated a few simple styling, decorating and decluttering tips to get you prepped and embracing the fun (and chaos) of juggling back to school and back to work.

 

I love this quote “it’s not enough to just hope for a happy and healthy life, it’s a combination of mindset, routines and habits working together that will get you there.” We would take it one step further, mindset, routines, habits and the right home environment to get you there…

 


Set your family up for success

Set up the night before and simplify your morning.

 

Everyone’s morning routine is unique… and that is unique with a whole lot of unplanned additions. Here are a few small hacks you can set up that make the morning a little more streamlined.

 

1. Visual Checklists and Organisers – when it comes to back to school the checklist and organiser has never been so important. We are all visual creatures, so having a visual checklist of what needs to be done, what is planned for the week and any variances in schedule really helps the routine. Also, everything having a place helps minimise thinking and creates habits that creates space for learning and quiet time.

There are a lot of stylish ones out there you can even make it a focal piece of your workspace.

 

2. Pack your bags (and your #OOTD – outfit of the day) the night before.

This is a good one for the kids and the adults of the household. I am a massive fan of this one.

 

3. Have your gym bag ready by the door. For the kids or the adults too.

 

4. Drinking water not only is a must for health it is a big booster for concentration. Set out water bottles (recyclable if possible) to remind you to take them, or fill them the night before and put them in the fridge.

 

5. Has everything got a place in your home? Where do you store your school bags, your gym bag, lunch boxes, sun creams, hats, keys etc.

 

6. Maximise your sleep – last but definitely not least, you have to have your sleep situation maximised as nothing beats a good night rest. 

 

We love to delve into your morning routine and see if there are any small changes we can help you make to simplify. It’s all about optimizing space and finding storage solutions that fit into your daily needs.

 

Ask yourself, what are our bottlenecks and pain points in the morning, and what can you create to make your life a little more streamlined?

Re-work and Re-love your Space

No one likes a cramped, cluttered, poorly lit or messy work space. It’s a huge distraction and there are many things we can do to help us keep focused and that promotes good and productive work habits in the home.

Whether it’s random junk that simply doesn’t have a place to go or it’s a collection of toys that your kids like to have on display, it all needs to be removed from the workspace and have a nice home that it can be easily located again.

Creating a work zone helps study time be study time and here are some elements to consider:

  • Proper Lighting – One of the most common mistakes people of all ages make these days is when they assume that the light given off by a computer monitor is enough light to work safely.  Back to school styling ideas should always include some plan for proper lighting.  
  • A Comfortable Chair – Having an uncomfortable chair is sooo distracting. This is a must for productivity, posture and also your eyes in the long-term.
  • Colour to stimulate focus – yellow is an energising colour and green is comforting, check your space and see if you have the right mix of colours that will keep you stimulated and focused. What are the colours you love and get you into the productive working zone?
  • Bring in the green – greenery is not only beautiful, but they also help reduce toxins in the air, boost your mood and improve productivity. If you don’t want the commitment of a houseplant, try adding a bouquet of flowers from the garden or succulents to your counter for an instant mood boost. Greenery makes an excellent addition to any room. Incorporating plants into your bedroom also helps for better night’s sleep!

 

Styling and decluttering ideas can vary hugely depending on the number of kids you have, number of rooms, routines and the WFH situation.

However, there are always some constants and making some of the above tweaks will make a world of difference. 

Here are some product we love that can easily help style your family set up:

Weekly planners
– Personalise with this Etsy monthly organiser
Kikki-K 
Office Works 
Miss Jacob’s Little Learners 
Anthropologie 

 

Stylish school chairs, desks & lighting:
Life Interiors 
Norsu 
Ikea 
Koala Living 
Royal Design 

Lockers for storage and organising: 
Mustard Made Lockers
Montana Furniture 
– Ikea Organisers 
RJ Living 

 

We help tailoring a study space for our smaller clients and help to make the daily school run smoother for the entire family.

This is what one busy mum shared with us...

“Being a single mum, my 13yo and 9yo had ended up with an array of different pieces of furniture and toys, games, clothes plus bits and pieces from different ages and stages in their bedrooms. Aisha and Jana suggested a functional session that they would host directly with the girls for a few hours in the school holidays and it’s been a gamechanger.  They cleared the clutter and the girls are more comfortable in and proud of their personal spaces.  I’d highly recommend this process to any parent (or anyone really) challenged by clutter and disorganisation in the home!”

Mum from Coogee

If you would love some help to get your family #BacktoSchoolReady then reach out for a chat.

 

Within a 2 hour declutter session we can have your space transformed into a productive retreat that will help you manage what else 2022 throws your way.

 

We are ready, let us help you!

0

Our 5 Key Ingredients to a Healthier & Happier Home

Often in life things feel complicated, overwhelming and cluttered. There is just way too much noise. Life has too much choice, too many things we ‘should’ be doing and just too many ‘tabs’ open. Who hears me?

At Hills & West Interiors we love a simple, purposeful yet playful outlook on life, and to our spaces, and for us, that comes with a few easy guides to steer us, in the right direction (we all know life is full of distractions).

 

 

Here are our 5 key ingredients to curate a happier home and everyday life.

 

1. A Mess Makeover 

Decluttering, simplifying and improving everyday life.

Disorganised stimuli takes your focus away from what is important.

 

Following are just some of the things we consider:

Making choices easier – how do you live and where are your pressure points?

Easy decluttering steps to improve productivity

– The ‘have you used it in the last year?’ test

Clutter free surfaces providing space to breathe

– Giving key items, especially items used every day, a place to live

Easy access – the value of open storage

Reclaim your mornings and weekend – what are the simple things that can make the morning routine stress-free?

2. It’s All About You 

Tailoring your space to your personality and lifestyle are all about creating havens that spark purpose, happiness and connection for you.

 

Bring more of;

– what brings you joy?

– what is the style direction that caters to your taste however also lifestyle?

– your personality into your space – memories, personal pieces from travels, words with meaning etc.

– art that speaks to you and crates a talking pieces in your home

– fun – what does that mean to you?

 

Remember that feeling when you have a fabulous outfit on and you walk with your head held high. What are the secret ingredients, colours, fabrics, combinations and curate that in your home. Your home is your safe space and must cater to your loves, needs and lifestyle… not anyone else’s expectations.

 

We love simple, purposeful & a little bit of playful.

 

A few small changes can have a huge impact on your everyday.

 

 

3. Functional Bliss

This is where the purposeful and functional come into play.

Focusing on functionality to facilitate easy living and architecting your spaces to cater to the lifestyle you want to lead.

 

This can all be curated by setting up;

– Clever space hacks

– Balance harmony, utility and intentional placement

– Optimising space – maximising space for how you live and use your spaces

– Reviewing how functional is your home;

      • Zones – rugs and placement
      • Comfort levels
      • Tricky nooks
      • Places for quiet, productivity, conversation corners, connection and fun
      • Flow and movement
      • Pet spaces
      • Exercise/wellness spaces

 

We feel when it comes to your home, you get what you give. The more you consider and curate your space the more it will give back.

 

4. Mood Maker

Carefully curating colour, lighting, some furnishings and accessories creating ambiance and the right mood for the right space.

 

There is so much power in colour, fragrance, window dressings and lighting, here are just some of the things we consider;

– Colour palette rules 60/30/10 (60% of the room should be a dominant colour, 30% should be the secondary colour or texture and the last 10% should be an accent)

– Your personal mood boosting colours

– Right colours for the right rooms – what is the function of the room?

– Let the light in (or create it)

– Mirror magic for light, space and function

– Accessories – sometimes less is more, however adding decorations can make all the difference

– Selecting window dressings to both service a function, such as privacy, sound proofing, sun protection; and mood, such as distinguishing the bedroom from the living space.

– Seasonal refreshes to settle you in for the winter or jump start the spring season

– Creating joyful moments

 

Building a personal space that feels like home and is that enclave of peace and reprieve is what we strive for.

 

5. Grounding 

If we can’t feel grounded and connected in our home, where can we?

Bringing in elements that ground you can make a world of difference, this includes;

– Grounding natural elements – greenery

– What is your fragrance? How can we instill a sense of safety, comfort and mood

– Textures it up – looking at the mix of woods, stone, floor coverings and finishings give you a sense of comfort and softness

– Home wellness – have you optimised your home wellness through ventilation, light, placement and memories

 

We work with you to create spaces that inspire you and allow you to live the life you want to live. No matter how simple or complex your interior styling requirements are, we execute every detail and make the most out of your available budget.

 

We are on a Mission to empower people to create spaces that enrich the way they live, work and play, ultimately enjoying a happier, more connected and stress-free way of living. It is that simple. We would love to create with you.

 

An easy way to start is to book in a mini mess makeover session. In 2 hours watch us makeover a key space in your home that will set you up for blissful success in 2022.

 

Do you want live differently in 2022?

 

Take that first step here. 

AISHA HILLARY MORGAN

 

Aisha creates balanced, harmonius spaces that are bound together by a carefully considered design narrative

0