Boho is wild abandonment! Global influences are paired with an overall casual feel because the key is to carefully create a purposely “messy” look.

The term Bohemian came from the French word for ‘gypsy’, which works perfectly for describing the spirit and theme of Boho style.  Embrace the local market and pair 1950’s Hollywood with rustic timbers, lace, Navajo and Moroccan patterns.  Layering textiles is essential because it ensures the styling isn’t ‘flat’.

Designbx Co-Founder and Head of Interior Design Kerena Berry shares her 6 top tips. Achieve the Boho style in your home with Designbx and RealEstate.com

1. Top tip

Look like you’ve travelled the world, even if you are yet to do so. If you have spent your life collecting things, the boho style calls for you to show them off. As opposed to minimalist interior designs, bohemian embraces mess and knick-knacks. 

Image Source: Bisque Traders

2. Boho style traits

Relaxed seating (feather, soft filled), corrected leathers, layers, vintage chandeliers, lace, wallpaper, rustic timbers, Moroccan details, hand-dyeing, Ikats patterns, cushions and Persian rugs. Indoor plants are another key staple to bohemian interior design because it creates another layer of colour. It’s also common to see more indoor plants than furniture pieces with this style. 

Image Source: Collective Hub

3. Designers/Artists

Shannon Fricke, Sibella Court, Kit Kemp, Abigail Ahern, Justine Blakeney…to name a few

Image Source: Barefoot Gypsy via Interiors Addict

4. Pantone colours

5. Brands that fit

Tree of life, Uniqwa Furniture Collections, Bisque Traders, Yak and Yeti Trader, Barefoot Gypsy, Nouvelle Nomad, Urban Outfitters, Free People, Anthropolgie, Ruby Star Traders, The Society Inc., Sage x Clare, Quercos & Co, A Rum Fellow, The Dharma Door.

Image Source: Barefoot Gypsy via Interiors Addict

6. A perfect day for boho

In the afternoon sun on your oversized feather-filled armchair, bare feet propped on your warn Moroccan ottoman and an oversized mug of brewed tea and pecan toasted bread.

Image source: Designbx

7. Fragrance or tune

Sandalwood and patchouli, warm aromas that increase feelings of well-being.

Image Source: Nouvelle Nomad via RealEstate.com.au

Boho is a style that is somewhat contradictory yet perfectly harmonious.  A home interior design style that embraces the feeling of Summer and warmth, whatever the season.   

The post Boho style guide appeared first on Designbx.

The Scandi style in 3 words: Organised, connected and calm.  The Scandi look is an offshoot from the mid-century movement that brought a populist minimal look.  Known for its simplicity, functionality and beauty, the appeal of the Scandi style has spread all over the world.  The use of light is extremely important, and many Scandinavian-styled homes are characterised by the use of earthy muted tones, natural materials, clean lines and minimal ornamentation. These key traits ensure you don’t build up clutter and promote a simple living space and lifestyle. 

Designbx Co-Founder and Head of Interior Design Kerena Berry, shares some basic tips for how you can achieve the Scandi style in your home with Designbx and RealEstate.com

Top tips for the Scandi style

1. Wooden Flooring

The Scandi style features wooden flooring-anywhere from a washed oak, aged dove grey, through to a clean painted white finish.

Image Source: Home Beautiful

2. Scandi style traits

Scandi features flat and soft textures and a strong geometric pattern.  The colours start with a white foundation and often have  muted pastels.  Some other key style traits include: vaporous blues, soft greys, milky whites, soft durable fabrics, resin homewares, craftsmanship, bleached timbers, concealed function, scarcity.

The Scandi style really showcases the beauty of simple objects. 

Image Source: Home Design Lover

3. Designers/Artists

To name just a few….Hans J. Wegner, Eric Buch, Niels Jorgen Haugensen.

Image Source: Interiors Addict

4. Pantone colours

Don’t forget that playing with textures can add that extra simple touch.

5. Brands that fit

Steal the Limelight, Muuto, Koskela, Ikea, Great Dane, Beck Urban Furniture, Morosso (hub furniture),  Nordic Fusion, Satara, RJ Living, Sheets on the Line, Kikki K, Nordik Living Icon by Design, Miss Amara Rugs, Norsu Interiors

Image Source: Norsu Interiors via Realhomes.com

6. A perfect day

Good coffee in bed, a leisurely rise to start the day, shower and dress for the local produce market. Meet friends, chat to the growers and buy two huge sacks of food. Head home to make a minestrone soup and cheese scones, then consume in front of a roaring fire with knitted blankets pulled high.

Image Source: Cox & Cox via Realhomes.com

7. Fragrance or tune

Pigeon & Weasel Candle-lassic Vanilla. Purity.

Image Source: My Scandinavian Home via Airtasker Blog

With its minimalism theme and simple beauty, it is easy to understand why the Scandi style has become one of the trendiest interior design styles in the modern world. Try an Asian-fusion approach with Japandi interior design – a trend that combines Japanese interior design with Scandinavian interior design.   

The Scandi style also peers seamlessly with both Boho Style and Coastal Style.

The post Scandi style guide appeared first on Designbx.

Remote working is on the up and many of are us facing the prospect of working from home for weeks – and even months – to come. So we want to offer some simple yet effective interior design tips for creating beautiful, practical and inspiring work from home spaces. 

There’s been so much attention in recent years about the benefits of creating incredible office spaces for employees. Because it helps boost morale, increase productivity and, as a whole, make us feel happier at work. The space we occupy can impact everything from our work ethic to our mental health, so it’s never been more important.

Versatile office furniture from our trusted supplier Globewest

Why is design important at home?

We’re huge advocates of this movement. As we collectively face the uncertainty of remote working and working from home, we want to help you create a space that inspires creativity, comfort and practicality. A space that will motivate you to stay focused even while you’re away from the traditional work environment.

As the founders of Designbx, we’ve been working from home for 5 years. And along the way we’ve picked up some great interior design tips on how to create truly inspiring workspaces.

Here are 5 interior design tips to help you spruce up your workspace, today

1. Green is good

Nothing brightens up a space or your mood like bringing the outdoors in. So position your workspace by a window, or simply add the touch of some live plants or freshly cut flowers. Green is the colour of life, energy and vitality and is the most relaxing colour to the human eye. So it makes sense that adding a touch of green to your home office will make those long days a little brighter. For some inspiration, read our blog on the best indoor plants for every room.

2. Bigger isn’t always better

There are so many clever products and techniques we can use to maximise your workspace. You don’t need to live in a large home to be able to create an effective workspace. From clever desk and chair designs to space-saving storage solutions and multi-purpose furniture, we can help you make the most of what you’ve got. 

3. Add a touch of personality

Be it pictures of your loved ones, a drawing from your child, or a memento from your favourite holiday. Adding a personal touch to your workspace will ensure you don’t lose sight of why you’re working so hard in the first place. Because it’s important to foster connections to the people around you and the things that bring you joy.

An inspiration wall keeps spirits high, be sure to rotate key images week to week, stay fresh! 

4. Go towards the light

Scientific research proves there are real benefits to spending time in natural light-filled spaces. So setting up your home office somewhere that offers a source of natural light will be an instant mood booster. Because it reduces the need for artificial lighting that drains your energy, and adds to your power bill and environmental footprint. If your home doesn’t offer much in the way of natural light, consider making your workspace “transportable” and taking yourself and your laptop off to the garden, a park or a nearby cafe for a few hours each day.

5. Hit all the senses

It’s not just about how a space looks – make sure you capture your other senses…

• Try adding your favourite candle or an aromatherapy diffuser.
• Make sure you have access to your latest Spotify soundtrack.
• Add some beautiful textures by way of cushions or a cheeky stress ball.
• Make sure you have a bowl of your favourite snacks on hand.

A great space is about capturing all of the sense, and a home office is no exception. 

Everyday furniture can become beautiful, custom-designed workspaces for the home. 

Over the coming weeks we’ll be sharing more tips and hacks on maximising your work from home experience, so make sure you’re connected with us on Instagram and Facebook. 

We’re also offering 50% off our Transform Design Packages because we want to help you create a beautiful space that will support your well-being and productivity as we all navigate new ways of working. 

The post Interior design tips to create a great home workspace appeared first on Designbx.

We also partner with art curators across many of our projects to ensure we have another expert across the vision. Often clients are really unsure of what they like, or we find ourselves navigating multiple views when it comes to art – so having another professional opinion in the mix is really helpful for both us and our clients to make the right decision.
Designbx’s Refresh package gives you access to an expert Interior Designer reviewing your home, existing furniture and architecture to curate multiple options that will enhance your room.

We are passionate about art here at Designbx and what it brings to a space. As part of your Refresh Package we can provide:

• A personally curated collection.
• Access to trade savings.
• Access to an array of artist’s and brands.
• Design a custom brief for a specific artist
• A streamlined process which includes sourcing, coordination and installation

We love art and love helping add those treasured items into homes across Australia.
How are your walls looking? White, bare, nothing works together, struggling to find art that works for everyone in the home. Let us take the guesswork out of your art selection headaches. For $199 per room your Room could go from plain Jane to the talk of the town…

The post How to give your home “new life” with artwork appeared first on Designbx.

What makes Kylie feel at home

1. Jewellery. The bigger, the bolder, the better. I always lose expensive jewellery so this using more affordable ‘on trend’ accessories really helps my wallet! I love that I can change a whole outfit or look simply by adding some beautiful vibrant touches by way of jewellery. And while I may not have the ‘body shape’ for designer fashion, I can so easily add my unique touch with some big leopard earrings!
2. Shoes. High heels always make me feel great, and fit! The right shoes can make or break an outfit for me. Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for comfortable flats as much as the next gal, but a pair of power heels can give you an instant shot of confidence.
3. Eyebrows and hair. You just can’t have a good day with one and not the other. I was born in the 80s with a mop of curly strawberry blonde hair, and had I been in my prime partying years I would have been living the dream. Instead I’m happy if I can just get a brush through my locks most days – that is a good hair day for me!
4. Furnishings. I absolutely love natural raw textures like linen, leather and timber. They are home to me. Growing up in New Zealand I really do appreciate the natural textures that are reminiscent of the beautiful scenery I was surrounded by growing up. It’s nostalgic for me, and creating a sense of nostalgia is such a powerful design tool.
5. TV and movies. Laughing out loud is my style. My husband and I formed our relationship on the basis of our love for TV and films from the often cringe-worthy era of the 80s. Anyone reading this who knows us well will be having a laugh-out-loud moment. We are a couple of dags who were made for each other!
6. Music. My go to is anything that has a story and makes me feel something. I’m pretty eclectic with my music taste pre-2000, but something about the stories told through music from the earlier generations – where people had to write letters and express their love in different ways – just gets me. I’m a hopeless romantic at heart and mostly end up crying to songs in the car.
7. Holiday destinations. I’m more of a “do it less often, but do it right” kind of girl. Boutique locations with lots of character and unique things to look at. It’s nice to dream! The memories made on holidays with loved ones – you just can’t buy that feeling.
8. Having a tidy desk. I’m really not sure if this is a style thing, but organisation is key to getting sh*t done for me. If I feel surrounded by mess and chaos, that’s how my day will end up.
9. Showing up on time. This is definitely a work in progress, but being on time is super stylish in my eyes. I am renowned for being late, which I’m working on – my tardiness goes against every other personality trait I have, so people are always surprised!
10. Friends and family. Authentic, true to themselves and down-to-earth… that’s my style and why I adore my friends and family. It does sound a bit cliché, but it’s so important to surround yourself with people you love to spend time with and who make you feel empowered and positive. We’re all so time poor that we need to be super conscious about who we spend our spare time with, and I choose to spend mine with positive and loving people.

How Kerena adds some personality and pizazz to her everyday

1. Photographs. I have them absolutely everywhere because they remind me of all the special moments and priceless people in my life.
2. Handbags and shoes. These are a huge weakness of mine. They are those finishing touches that just ooze personal style. My absolute favourite bag is the glorious Valentino I splurged on during a trip to New York to celebrate a dear friend’s 40th birthday. Every time I pick it up I’m reminded of the amazing time we had together – some possessions just have a way of bringing back precious memories. Similarly, but at the other end of the spectrum, is the $5 vintage leather bag I uncovered at Vinnies about 15 years ago. I cost me next-to-nothing but has accompanied me on so many adventures. My favourite shoes for comfort are my Superga platform joggers; for a bit of style punch I always reach for my suede orange tassel heels; and for an in-between occasion it’s always the Valentino rockstudded flats. I could go on….
3. Vaporisors. I have two in the house and I always have essential oils steaming away. My favourite scents at the moment are from Anjali – “Lady Indira” & “Lemon Myrtle”. Familiar and beautiful aromas are such an underrated element of design – they inspire memories, emotions and in my case create a sense of calm in the home.
4. Fashion. I have a very eclectic fashion sense – forever torn between my inner Cairns hippie heart; my unrequited rockstar dreams; the Northern Beaches casual surf chick; and a bit of a show-pony glitter fetish! Some of my favourite brands are Chasing Unicorns, Stevie May, Ministry of Style, Sass & Bide, Deus Ex Machina, Bali Trader (I love their custom design boots), Bec and Bridge… again, I could go on!
5. Flowers and plants. I always need one or both of these elements in and around my space; home, office, even my car (I place a fresh lavender sprig from the garden every morning in the air vents to help calm us all during the whirlwind of school drop offs). I have many plants in our family home and succulents at the office, as they’re hardy enough to survive when we’re out on shoots and working with clients.
6. Artwork. Studying art originally, I have a real appreciation for people who delve into such raw self-expression. I’ve collected art for as long as I can remember; street art as I backpacked around the world, and slowly building a collection of artists that I have admired for years. I call them my ‘Retirement Fund’… Let’s be honest, it’s never really going to fund my latter years, but it helps ease my conscience! I’m especially partial to photographic art.
7. Music. From the moment my head leaves the pillow to the moment it hits it again, I have music around me. I stopped TV with the children when they were young so it has filled a very big gap. It can turn any of our moods around in second and we all have a favourite tune, style and song that pulls us out of a funk and has us giggling in seconds. I couldn’t possibly make a top list of my favourite tunes, because again, my choices are eclectic – from Dolly Parton (Jolene), to Morcheeba (World Looking In), to Kings of Leon (Sex on Fire).
8. Food and drink. I just LOVE eating, drinking and entertaining! I’m a total foodie and am also partial to a marrying vino. I’m as white, freckled and stereotypically Aussie as they come, but my taste buds are very European.
9. Friends and family. I have lived away from my family since I was 16. And although they have often been far away, they hold such a precious piece of my heart. Having this distance from my relatives has in many ways meant my friends have become my family, and boy do I have a fabulous bunch around me! I have been so blessed to meet and build such gorgeous and inspiring friendships over my life, and I am forever grateful and will do anything to show love and support to those around me.
10. Babies. Mine and everyone else’s! I always wanted to be a mum – I was a total baby snatcher from as early as I can remember, and still am. By 10 years of age I was the local babysitter and could have four or more children in my care on any one night. I was in heaven! I am now a mum to two gorgeous little humans, and despite all the confronting moments it brings it is truly the most rewarding part of my life and every day. Amelia is eight and Hugo is five. There isn’t a day goes by when we don’t laugh, sing, banter and try each others’ patience. But mostly we just love each other with such depth that becoming a mum has been a soul-changing chapter of my life.

The post These are a few of our favourite things appeared first on Designbx.

Our in-house Interior Design expert Kerena Berry– Designbx shares her insight into the emerging Trends for 2020.  This year will see a pull toward more dynamic and stimulating interiors.  Iterations of each of the below trends will transpire across various styles; Boho, Luxe, Coastal, the rules are being pushed, and more than ever styles are being bled together in an individually creative manner. It’s time to release those creative juices!   

GEO UNION

In a constantly changing and dynamic world we are trending towards paying closer attention to the earth’s surface- the changes, causes and effects. We will continue to evolve and take a finer look at how we influence the environment and the results of our lifestyles.  In this heightened awareness we will start the blend with our surroundings, drawing on integrating textures of clay, concrete, minerals, foliage and rock sediments through pattern and prints. The palette is a meridian of neutral earth tones. “Fabric and wallpaper applications will be the hero elements for this trend’ Berry– Designbx

Image- Pattern Curator

Image Reference

FINE OPTIMISM

This season sees a yearning for something comforting and pleasing.  A celebration of the past and evolving it with the new. Antique aesthetics, french textiles and unobtrusive print and patterns.  Colours are delicate sun faded and organic tones. This is a bright happy space.

Berry says “Layering is key here. A fan of colours and patterns can comfortably share a single space, however, a similar tonal range will be the key element to ensure a refined design”  

Image- Pattern Curator

Image- Pattern Curator

sources:  thecoolhour.com, refinery29.com, ebay.com, nicolevalentinedon.com, somegram.com, instagram (@bohemiandecor), amapofdreams.com, vsco.com (vscovibess), attirepin.com

COUTURE BOHEMIAN

Inspired by the desire for expression and creativity, pulling from the free spirited lifestyle of artists, philosophers and writers.  “ This is one style we have seen a huge influx in our projects over the last 6 months. Australian’s are welcoming richer tones and heavier fabrics into the home and commercial spaces”- Berry.

We look to focus on an eclectic style of gilded neutrals, deep saturated jewel tones overlayed with considerate and detailed bohemian patterns. “Embracing the idea that “More is more”, colour, texture and pattern clash adding a daring twist with theatrical drama” Globewest

Image- Pattern Curator

Image- Globewest

Image reference    

Image reference

Image- Pattern Curator

2020 sees us taking everything up to the next level. Colour, texture, prints and patterns being pushed to surprise. A little piece of the past, future and present all colliding to create familiar yet challenging new designs – almost anything goes!

“It is refreshing to foremost see variety. A beautiful layering of modern techniques, with old era soul, and consideration and pull to nature’s forms and tones.” Kerena Berry Designbx

-Kerena Berry is a Senior Interior Designer and co-founder of Designbx, Australia’s online interior design solution.  

The post Design Trends 2020 appeared first on Designbx.

Image Reference

Make a game out of it

It doesn’t matter how old you are, cleaning is never fun for anyone.  Turn cleaning into a game of musical chairs, with each person assigned to a different space or room in the house and given five minutes to clean and tidy as much as they can. Before you know it, within 15-20 minutes the whole house can be cleaned and tidied depending on the level of mess. Try playing it with your untidy partner, pump their favourite tunes and set a timer as you sweep through the apartment on a rainy day or lazy afternoon. Not only does it keep the house clean, but it encourages everyone to maintain the place, as 5 minute rooms can get quite competitive!

Image Reference

Less is more

The trick with untidy people is to eliminate the amount they can make a mess with. Think about hoarders who create piles of clutter. Those with minimalist interior design styles have little to no opportunity to create havoc and clutter in a space. As new items are added and reach the point you’d consider ‘clutter’, force the house into spring cleaning mode. Rid your interiors of any unnecessary items and clear out spaces like the living room, chest of drawers, bathroom cabinets and kitchen bench. Clutter gives the illusion of a fuller space, and mess makers see this as a perfect excuse to add to it. Forcing people to cull their belongings should hopefully create less temptation in the future.

Image Reference

Have a place for everything

If there isn’t an established position for each belonging, how can people be expected to put things back in place? Items that float around are usually the ones that are left on tables and benches. Buying storage baskets, cabinets and drawer organisers will encourage the mess makers to put it back where they found it. Negotiate with the untidy person to find a solution that works for them. Labelling and colour coding works brilliantly for little kids, as well as adults who need some extra direction. Try adding little coloured dots to items such as personal products, and assign them to a matching coloured basket in the bathroom. If the situation is particularly challenging, create a ‘last warning basket’ and add anything that hasn’t been put back. After two days, if it’s not claimed, it goes in the bin – no exceptions!

Designbx client Corinna uses these tables which are also storage tubs – the perfect storage solution for any playroom in Corinna’s Coastal Transformation!

Image Reference

Chore charts

Everyone needs a bit of guidance, and those who love to organise love charts! If you live in a share house or with a large family, combating mess requires military precision. As a team, figure out essential chores that need to be done daily, weekly and fortnightly to keep the palace fit for royalty. On a whiteboard, draw up a simple chart that lists duties to be completed, and assign people in turn to complete them. House meetings can be called if things are going pear-shaped, and use the power to name and shame! For the untidy folk there’s nowhere to hide, as they can only be responsible for the task they have been assigned to.

With these space saving ideas your home will enjoy a Cinderella-style transformation in no time. With a light push (or a heavier shove!) your housemates and family can assist you to keep the castle clean. Experiment with each option and embrace the ones that get the most cooperation while keeping the atmosphere in your home light and fun.

If you need help with styling or designing an organised home, we are here to help!  

The post Living with untidy people appeared first on Designbx.

If you’re planning a complete makeover or tweaking your current home, we have the top interior design trends for achieving a South European influenced style.

1. Tiles are a must!

The easiest way to incorporate Mediterranean house decor into your home is using tiles of all colours, patterns, shapes and sizes. Tiles can be for flooring, kitchen splash backs or fireplaces – so get creative!
For a sun-baked Moroccan look, focus on using terracotta tiles in shades of dusty orange.  Incorporating patterned mosaic tiles is a large component of this particular style, and are great for bordering floors and walls.

Image reference

2. On the walls

A natural, rustic texture is commonly seen on the interiors and exterior of buildings in Greece and Italy. A textured look in the home is achieved by layering paint and glaze on plaster or alternatively creating sand textured walls for visual depth. Remember that you’re creating a naturally textured wall, so don’t be too particular when throwing around paint and glaze.
Using tinted dry wall compound can simulate a plaster wall without the cost and effort. When redesigning walls and choosing a colour palette think of sky blues, bright yellows and aqua.

3. Inspired accessories

Mediterranean house decor traditionally incorporates materials such as burnished bronze and wrought iron into accessories. A wrought iron fireplace goes well with Moroccan-inspired rugs in shades of red and blue. By using blue floral patterned vases as flower vases or cooking utensil holders, it’s a key subtle way to incorporate the style. Complement vases with colourful patterned cushions and neutral throws.

For a more elegant, Luxe inspired look, use gold as the main accent colour.

Image reference

Image reference

4. Italian highlights

Italian inspired interiors often incorporate dark wooden floorboards, over sized furniture and red and orange in colour schemes. Colours that mimic a Tuscan sunset such as warm reds and terracotta orange will embrace a European summer all year round.

Encapsulate Italian design in the living room by pairing red cushions with an orange patterned rug, and create a bold statement in the bedroom with Italian bed linen.

Image reference

5. Greek inspired

For a Greek twist on your style, think deep blues matched with bright turquoise in your furniture and statement pieces. Using whitewashed wood flooring throughout the house and covered with Moroccan style rugs in the bedrooms pays beautiful homage to the Greeks. A common design feature in Greek homes that are perched on the side of the sea are statement pillars and rustic exposed beams, so consider using these tastefully. In the bedroom, opt for large statement bedheads and bed frames.

Image reference

To make re-decorating easy, meet Grace Garrett, a designer and textile designer who embraces the Mediterranean style. Grace has been in the design industry for over 20 years and is one of the interior design online experts at Designbx.

The post Mediterranean house decor: Set sail to Europe appeared first on Designbx.

Image source

1. New colours for an old look

Let’s start with the colour scheme. Just about anything can be used for your antique style. Some suggestions are: aqua blues, sunshine yellows, creamy whites and leather browns. Also incorporate floral prints as this was the trending design of the time. To save money, instead of buying new furniture just because the colours don’t match, simply give your cupboards, tables and cabinets a coat of fresh but old looking paint.

1. Roughly coat chalk paint onto the furniture, creating an uneven surface.
2. Use graphite and water to darken edges and legs, where wear and tare would have occurred
3. Use coarse sandpaper and paint scrapers to distress the furniture for a worn look
4. Use clear chalk paint wax to finish

Image source

2. Fancy fabrics for less

Many antique styles incorporate expensive fabrics such as large velvet couches and silk curtains, but often there is a cheaper alternative that looks just as effective. Instead of using velvet, opt for felt which has a similar texture and no one will be able to tell from afar. As for those luscious silk curtains, synthetic satins shimmer just as well and your bank account will thank you for it. When choosing furniture in these materials, a blend of yellow and blue will give a vintage look and can also be styled with just about anything. You could also go traditional brown leather but make sure it is a weathered look and not a ‘straight-out-of-the-shop’ appearance as it will stick out like a sore thumb.

Image source

3. The traditional home library

It wouldn’t be an antique theme without a home library. Grab the oldest looking bookshelf you can find and fill it with the oldest books you can find. Books with a little ware and tare are ideal as it gives the impression that they were actually read once-upon-a-time. This is where the op-shop actually does come in handy. Many outlets sell books for next to nothing and they are generally used books which is perfect for the look you’re going for. Place a velvet couch in the room and you have yourself a traditional antique library.

Image source

4. In the kitchen

The kitchen is by far the easiest room to transform into a antique masterpiece. Vintage inspired kitchens are on trend and it’s relatively cheap and easy to transform a modern kitchen into an antique one. Start by removing cupboard doors. Yes you heard right, there was no place for cupboard doors back in the day. Everything on shelves and in cupboards were celebrated as part of the design of the room. Open shelving or glass cabinet doors are the perfect addition to a antique kitchen. If this move is a bit too bold, simply replace doors with vintage curtains in cute floral or stripe patterns. Another antique addition to the kitchen can include replacing cabinet knobs. These days, knobs are often shiny and simplistic but the antique style calls for something with pattern and elegance. Try brass or iron handles that can often be found at the local hardware shop.

Image source

5. Time to decorate

Vintage interior design is all about having functional decorating items such as those decorative plates hanging on the wall, that may come in handy when people are over for dinner (even though they are rarely used, the thought is there). First let’s turn your lighting into an artwork. Paint your old lamp shades with floral patterns for a unique touch. Don’t stress if you don’t have an artistic side, simply grab leaves and paint them in various colours, to then press into the shade. Rugs are the next big necessity. Colourful Chinese art deco rugs are perfect for a vintage touch. The more pattern and colour the better. Rugs can be a big investment, so instead grab a few metres of fabric, such as Ikea’s ikat fabric, and head to a dressmaker to sew the seams. Although this may not be the centre piece of the room, it’s a perfect base for furniture. As for the walls, create an eclectic mix of various frames. Grab old wooden frames from and op-shop or repaint frames in gold and brass colours.

Image source

6. Storage

When thinking about storage, think of all the possible uses for one item. Such as a small bowl can be used for jewelry storage, to hold a candle or to hold keys. Vintage silver, brass or copper bowls, vases and plates are ideal for storage in every room. Expensive looking pieces can be found at op-shops for inexpensive prices, or you could raid your grandmother’s house for timeless pieces. Bowls can be used for plants such as succulents, or hanging plants. Antique vases can be used for makeup brushes and toothbrushes. Vintage plates can be used for wall decoration or can be made into a multitiered jewelry holder.

Image source

7. Hang your memories

Hanging photos doesn’t have to be done in the traditional framed way. This idea lends itself more to the country vintage look but is also perfectly suited for a home in the city. Use wire or an old fence gate to peg photos onto. Painted wire is often worn and this means it will fit in perfectly with your worn painted furniture.

Image source

As you can see, vintage interior design does not have to send you bank into the negatives. By getting creative, you can bring your antique inspired designs to life for less.

The post Vintage interior design: without the op shop look appeared first on Designbx.

Image Reference

Eco green design

As climate disruption continues, consumers are also becoming much more conscious of their contribution to the problem. Actively engaging with our politicians by demanding policy reforms that curb our carbon footprint is as important as ever. Importantly, becoming environmentally efficient in our own homes now, also makes a major difference in turning back the clock on climate change.

Gone are the days of installing energy efficient light bulbs as the only option to go green. Many felt as if they were being forced to sacrifice style for sustainability.  Eco-friendly engineering has exploded over the last decade and our options for small footprint homes ranges from composting to eco green design in the home. We are now able make everything in our homes more efficient and eco-friendly, at a more affordable price tag.

1. Efficient energy- Solar panels

Even the most enthusiastic supporters of solar power have been shocked about how fast the cost of solar is falling. In the last five years alone, the price of large scale solar has fallen by 58% in Australia. Unless you’re a fossil fuel company, that’s really great news. Even Royal Dutch Shell has been forced to admit that the energy sector will be dominated by solar this century.

From a design perspective, Tesla has changed that game too. Solar panels have shed their dark and bulky appearance for a sleek aesthetic that blends seamlessly with all types of roofing, including terracotta tiles. Pundits may make the argument that the solar market is getting overcrowded, with IKEA now looking to bring rooftop solar panels and installation services to its Australian stores. As long the solar power is regulated, the more the merrier!

2. Bamboo

No longer the “Poor Man’s Timber”, Bamboo is becoming one of the best building materials. Its abundance and steady growth rate make it the number one eco-friendly and durable choice. Designers and engineers are getting hip to its versatility and are continuously exploring new ways to incorporate the material. Everything from common floorboards and cabinets are now available in eco-friendly bamboo. Times are changing with full buildings entirely crafted from bamboo, taking notes from ancient Chinese architecture. Designers and architects are even going so far as to showcase its uniqueness instead of hiding it.

Image Reference

Bamboo’s reputation as a fast grower is pretty common knowledge. You need something that will grow quickly enough to block out the neighbour’s weekly barbecues? Bamboo is there for you. But what might surprise you is that  bamboo can grow up to a metre in a single day and be harvested in half the time of even soft woods. As a bonus, it neutralises four times the amount of carbon as many other trees, making it perfect for eco green design. 

In China, bamboo is a low carbon alternative to plastic, yet engineers find difficulty in making it a viable option. Recent advancements in heating and bending the plant have taken off. New products are coming into the market, with everything from speakers to hairdryers. Developed from mixing resins with bamboo fibres, the creation is one that is stronger than reinforced concrete with the benefit of being biodegradable.

Image Reference

3. Sustainable timbers

When it comes to timbers for eco green design, bamboo isn’t the only game in town. In fact, there are over 70 timber varieties grown in Australia that boasts the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) stamp of approval. FSC is rigorous in its sustainability standards, and is the largest and most well respected eco-certifying program of its kind. Its website offers information on everything from sustainable Australian timbers available to a list of retailers for purchase.

If you’re looking for eco-friendly hardwood timber flooring, Australian Solar Timbers (AST), located in New South Wales is a great place to go. AST was started by two ANZAC soldiers in 1919 and has been offering sustainable timber ever since. They are the largest users of solar kiln technology- a practice that harnesses the sun’s power to quickly and efficiently dry out timber- and the company prides itself on being pioneers in local Forestry Stewardship.

Image Reference

3. Beefing up on energy efficiency

From a dollar and cents standpoint, it’s cheaper to go green. You are more likely to receive better quality construction, and lower utility bills with green energy. Not only will adding these features make your neighbours envious, it will stand out to potential buyers if you choose to sell your home.

Most buyers are searching for a turn-key property, and they will pay more for a property that includes smart-home technology. In fact, when asked in a 2016 study byColdwell Banker, 54% of home buyers said that if they were given the choice between two identical homes and one had “smart technology” upgrades, they would pay more for the smart home. Those numbers increase for parents with children in the home and millennial buyers to 59% and 61% respectively.

Real estate brokers are following these trends and are highlighting these benefits in their marketing efforts. Appraisers believe that high costs justify taking smart upgrades into account, which result in higher valuations for smart homes.

Image Reference

Investing in things like efficient appliances and timers for your lights are all great options to smarten up your home. Invest in energy saving technology like Nest, which allows you to adjust your air conditioning and other features from your smartphone. These investments could save money now, make money in the future and make you a better steward of the environment.

Over the next few weeks we’ll be offering useful and practical tips on how you can be environmentally savvy in the home.  

Krista Collard is the founder and principle of Sustainable Staging and is a writer and designer for Designbx. She has worked in media and communications for environmental advocacy groups 350.org Australia and the Sierra Club in the US and continues to advocate for all things sustainable.  

The post Eco green design in the home appeared first on Designbx.