Great design isn’t always bold or dramatic; sometimes, it is the small details that bring a room to life. One design element that does just that is pencil tiles. Slender, refined, and versatile, pencil tile trims are a great detail for designers and homeowners who want to add refinement to a tiled surface. Used everywhere from kitchens and bathrooms to feature walls, they create clean lines, seamless transitions, and a beautifully polished finish.
Why is Pencil Tile Trim a Special Detail?
Pencil tiles can be described as slim, elongated trims used for concealing the edges of a tiled surface. They frame the area where tiles meet another tile or a non-tile surface. It is this adaptability that makes pencil trims a necessary addition. They can also accentuate features such as backsplashes or shower niches with a polished look.
Made from materials such as porcelain, ceramic, marble, and glass, these edge trims provide durability. Their slim profile enables them to blend well in an area, making them a great match for contemporary and classic interiors. Moreover, standard tiles come with matching trims, in different finishes, from glossy to matte to honed, allowing for a cohesive design.
Pencil Tiles in Kitchen Design
Kitchens are the hub of a home, and the design of a backsplash really helps in defining the space. That is where pencil tiles excel. Detailing can be very precise and creative in its use. This tile trim can make an ordinary kitchen backsplash stand out, whether it’s to highlight a unique pattern or simply protect from daily messes.
Adding Elegance to Bathrooms
In bathrooms, pencil tiles are great for edging around tiled walls, framing mirrors, or defining shower edges. These tile trims carve out areas without causing visual overwhelm. For example, lining a shower niche with pencil tile conceals sharp edges and creates a luxurious accent that adds to the beauty of the surrounds.
Enhancing Living Spaces
Not only can pencil tiles work wonderfully in both kitchens and bathrooms, but they also bring subtle architectural detail to living areas, too. They work beautifully around fireplace surrounds, feature walls, or even open plan shelves, offering neat lines that help pull a room together. By framing specific sections or creating gentle separation in open-plan layouts, pencil tiles bring structure and refinement into everyday living.
Using Pencil Tiles Outdoors
Pencil tiles can be laid outdoors if they are chosen in durable materials like porcelain. They are excellent for revamping patio feature walls, outdoor kitchen backsplashes, or decorative garden walls. These trims define borders, transition between surfaces, and create a polished visual that stands the test of fluctuating weather conditions. Pencil tiles add both function and beauty to exterior spaces, continuing the design language of the home from the inside out.
Choosing the Right Material
The material for pencil tiles should be chosen with care to provide both durability and cohesiveness. Porcelain pencil tiles are durable and can withstand moisture, hence fitting for bathrooms and kitchens. Ceramic comes in an array of colors, ideal for decorative walls and backsplashes. Glass pencil tiles add a reflective quality, often used to brighten spaces and add a contemporary edge. Other classic options include marble pencil tiles, which boast natural veining and a rich finish to give any room a truly timeless and high-end appearance.
Material selections must be made in concert with the purpose of the space and the overall design scheme.
Installation Tips for Pencil Trims
Install a pencil trim at the same time as standard tiles, and in the same manner. Using the right adhesive and grout selection is crucial in areas subjected to moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens.
A high-quality waterproof adhesive will ensure that the tiles and trims are well bonded and long-lasting. For grout, choose between sanded or unsanded based on the tile material, joint width, and area of installation. Whether set vertically or horizontally, pencil tiles can transform walls or floors from ordinary to outstanding.
Maintenance and Longevity
One of the key benefits of pencil tiles is that they require very little maintenance. Most materials are resistant to stains, moisture, and wear. All that’s needed is simple cleaning with any mild detergent to appear like new. For wet and high-traffic areas, specific materials such as marble should be sealed every 1-2 years or sooner to protect against moisture damage. Porcelain, glass, and ceramic options do not require sealing, but grout lines do..
By investing in quality pencil tiles, homeowners can ensure their spaces stay stylish and functional for years to come. The durability of these tiles, combined with the aesthetic appeal, makes them cost-effective for long-term design projects.
Conclusion
With pencil tiles, it is not only about decoration; you are changing the whole design language of your home. Their subtle charm, durability, and adaptability make them a worthy investment with great benefits on both aesthetic and functional grounds. Discover the range of pencil tile options for homeowners and designers looking for ideas to provide the perfect complement to standard tiles. Whether your style is modern, traditional, or somewhere in between, pencil tiles are a versatile and elegant solution to elevate every corner of your home.
Have you got your Christmas decorations sorted yet? Don’t worry if you haven’t, as Argos and Habitat are currently offering some great deals on its Christmas decorations. I’ve spotted 30% off select Christmas decorations and 25% off Christmas homeware, so you can snap up any last-minute buys to ensure a stylish and affordable festive season.
It’s true, Christmas starts earlier and earlier every year, with Christmas trends beginning to emerge as early as September, which can mean the best decorations can sell out fast. If you’re starting to shop now and are finding slim pickings in terms of choice, Argos has a huge range to shop from that will arrive in time for decorating this weekend.
So, I’ve trawled Argos’ festive sale to find the best buys, so you don’t have to. These are my top nine picks to add to your Christmas decorating ideas.
Habitat
Gold Star Christmas Wreath
My top pick is this gorgeous Habitat gold star christmas wreath, which was already affordable at £15, but it is now 30% off with the code ‘XMAS30’. It looks like a glorious explosion of shooting stars and taps into the ‘celestial’ Christmas trend.
I can imagine it looking beautiful hung on a front door as an alternative to a traditional wreath idea or over a fireplace. Here are a few of my other star buys for decorating your home this weekend and getting ready for Christmas hosting.
Habitat
Habitat 7ft Pre Lit Natural Look Christmas Tree
If you’ve not locked down your tree yet, this pre-lit tree impressed us on our hunt for the best artificial Christmas tree. It is currently 30% off with code XMAS30.
Argos Home
Argos Home 120ml Botanic Reed Diffuser – Christmas Spice
These stunning diffuser has notes of soft cinnamon, fragrant cloves, sweet vanilla, honey and citrus fruits which mix perfectly together to create a warm, spiced festive scent. You can get 25% off with code MERRY25.
Habitat
Habitat 3d Xmas Tree Glass Jug – White
This kistch jug is the right balance of festive. It’s a subtle nod to the season and should definitely be on your dining table this year. You can get 25% off with code MERRY25.
Habitat
Habitat Pack of 2 3ft Pre Lit Potted Porch Christmas Tree
If you have space, create the ultimate festive doorscape with these lovely 3ft pre-lit outdoor trees. They’re now reduced by 30% with code XMAS30.
Premier Decorations
Premier Decorations Christmas Tree Stand
More practical than pretty, if you’ve not secured your Christmas tree stand yet you can pick this one up for a bargain price when you use code XMAS30 for 30% off .
Habitat
Habitat Nesting Mango Wood Tree Ornaments – Set of 2
If you a fan of Scandi, minimalist-style Christmas decor, don’t miss out on these lovely wooden trees. They make a welcome contrast to all the seasonal sparkle. You can get 25% off with code MERRY25.
Habitat
Habitat Bobbin Set of 4 Champagne Glasses – Clear
These stylish glasses will add a splash of playful elegance to any festive toast. You can get 25% off with code MERRY25.
Argos Home
Cotton Christmas Houses Blue Bedding Set – Single
This beautiful snowy scene will get you in the mood for Christmas. It’s reversible, too, with the inner side showing snow falling from a clear night sky. You can get 25% off with code MERRY25.
Argos Home
Argos Home Bows Mistletoe Printed Cushion – Pink – 43x43cm
Make your sofa look instantly festive with this super cute Christmas cushion. You can get 25% off with code MERRY25.
These sophisticated home buys will make Christmas hosting and decorating even easier this year. Remember to use the code ‘MERRY25’ to access your discount.
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The Modern Grid Apartment, a design by Be Esthete Studio and Kate Gavryliuk, feels full of intention. Every line, every color, every surface has purpose. Bold blue cabinetry anchors the layout, and soft light floods the rooms. Warm wood floors add comfort without losing the modern edge. It’s simple, but it stands out. And once you walk through the rooms, the structure of the entire home starts to reveal itself; clean & calm.
The hallway sets the tone for the apartment, where black-framed doorways create clean graphic lines. Warm wood wardrobes stretch across one wall, giving you plenty of hidden storage; their tall black handles echo the apartment’s modern grid theme.
As you move through the corridor, the mix of grey, black, and natural wood stays consistent. The matte-black door blends into the cabinetry wall, with a small wall sconce casting a soft glow. Simple but inviting.
The living room feels easy to settle into. A grey sectional shapes the seating area, also adding balance to the darker shades around. The low blue console creates a striking contrast with the bold black accent wall, and ties the space into the apartment’s signature hue. Oversized windows let plenty of natural light fall onto the warm wood flooring, and the lightly patterned rug brings just the right amount of texture.
The kitchen sits quietly along the wall, keeping the space feeling airy. There’s ample storage but minimal visual weight, thanks to the soft grey cabinetry that runs up to the ceiling.
The countertops and sink faucet are kept minimal so the speckled backsplash can stand out. A slim black shelf sits above it, holding just a few glasses and warm wood accents.
Designers have used the dining table as the focal point here to bridge the kitchen and living room seamlessly. Finally, clever, strategic placement of the statement black lamp gives height to the corner, and the leather seating helps it all come together.
Calmness takes over when you step into the bedroom of the Modern Grid Apartment. Blue is on the lead here, wrapping the headboard wall and the shelving divider in a rich, modern tone. Furniture is kept low to create a relaxed, easy feel.
The tall shelving unit, also a statement feature here, does more than divide the room- it hides the sleek white workspace + provides useful storage without clutter. A trailing plant and a white reading light finish off the decor while adding extra functionality.
Things are looking crisp & modern in the bathroom. Light grey tiles prevent the interior from feeling too boxed-in, while the blue vanity ties back to the palette used throughout the apartment. White subway tiles break up the grey and make the sink area feel brighter.
A simple walk-in shower sits behind a soft grey curtain. The warm LED strip above it adds just enough glow to make the space feel inviting. Fixtures stay sleek and minimal, so the room feels open despite its compact size.
A heated airer is a handy bit of kit, but with a wide variety of models ranging in quality and price, it can be tricky to find the best deal. Aside from checking to see if any of the best heated airers are on sale, I also scour the middle aisles of Lidl and Aldi to hunt down a bargain.
Lidl is currently selling a heated airer for £29.99, and normally I’d argue you won’t find a better deal – that is, until I spotted George Home’s airer, which also has received some pretty good reviews.
George Home
Silver Heated Winged Clothes Airer
Addis
Addis 12m Heated Wing Clothes Airer
If you’re wondering how long a heated airer takes to dry clothes, essentially whether they are worth it or not, the answer is just four to eight hours on average. Anyone who’s dealt with laundry taking closer to four days to dry on a standard airer in winter will know this is a great time.
Considering an energy-hungry tumble dryer can still take over an hour to dry clothes, a heated airer is a good investment to make. While it takes longer to dry clothes, heated airers are cheaper to run than a tumble dryer.
George Home’s Silver Heated Winged Airer is made from aluminium and weighs just 5kg, making it lightweight and easily transportable for your home. It also folds for easy storage.
Its foldable nature comes down to its large wings, which also expand the surface area for drying clothes when opened. When the wings are open, the airer is 54 x 147 x 94 cm in size, meaning it can happily handle a standard load of washing. Plus, it comes with a 100-day warranty.
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By contrast, Lidl’s heated airer looks very similar. It has the same dimensions as George Home’s airer, so I can assume it holds a similar load size. While George Home has not shared information about how much weight their airer can hold, Lidl has. The Lidl airer has a drying space of 12m and can hold up to 15kg of laundry. As George Home’s airer is the same size, I predict it can hold a similar amount of washing.
Lidl’s heated airer also costs just 7p per hour (according to the October Ofgem price cap), meaning it won’t make too much of a dent in your energy bills to use. By contrast, George Home does not have this information available, but some reviews do comment that it is affordable to run.
‘Very practical, works efficiently, doesn’t use much electricity, heats clothes dry quickly, very impressed, and use all year round. Amazing!’ said one.
‘Had this for several months, best thing ever, works best if you dry things flat and rotate often, but a saviour when the weather’s wet and cold,’ said another.
If you can’t choose between the two, here are three recommended heated airers, tried and tested by the Ideal Home team.
JML DriBUDDI Compact Heated Indoor Airer
Ideal Home‘s best rated heated airers, it dries clothes in just 2 to 3 hours It’s also affordable and dismantles when not in use
Status Portable Heated Clothes Airer
A winged heated clothes airer is generally the most affordable option, and will still speed up drying times compared to a non-heated airer. This is the best budget option we’ve tried.
Dry:Soon 3-Tier Deluxe Heated Airer
If you have a big or busy household, you’ll need a heated airer with a big capacity. This has 21 metres of drying rack space. It’s also one of the best options for drying large items like trousers, sheets and towels.
While I’m normally pretty loyal to my local Lidl middle aisle, this time I will be heading to George Home. What about you?
The process of decorating a child’s room can be both thrilling and daunting. You want the area to be whimsical and magical, a place where creativity is allowed to run wild. However, how can a blank canvas be transformed into a colorful sanctuary without going over budget? The solution is more straightforward than you might imagine: posters that can be printed.
Your child’s room can be totally transformed with these simple, inexpensive, and incredibly adaptable works of art. Printable posters are the ideal way to update a room without spending a lot of money on artwork or permanent designs, whether you’re a parent or an experienced decorator. Let’s explore some creative ways to use these vibrant prints to create a space that your child will love as we delve into the world of kids’ room décor.
The Magic of Printable Posters
Just picture your child’s happiness when they enter a room full of their favorite animals, characters, or motivational sayings, all framed and ready to go! The flexibility to print precisely what you want, when you want, is what makes printable posters so alluring. The designs can be altered to fit any theme, such as unicorns, dinosaurs, or even motivational sayings that will mature with your child.
What could be better? They are simple to replace. You don’t have to repaint or replace furniture as your child’s tastes change. To quickly update the space, just locate a fresh set of printable posters.
Creating Themes with Printable Posters
Developing a theme is one of the simplest ways to unify a space. Choosing furniture, colors, and accessories is made easier by themes, which provide guidance and organize your design choices. The following theme suggestions will assist you in getting started:
1. Adventure Is Waiting: For children, a jungle safari theme is a timeless favorite. Posters of lions, elephants, and monkeys should cover the walls. Add colorful birds, tree branches, and lush green foliage. Select a range of printable posters that depict the untamed spirit of the jungle, including animals, scenery, and even whimsical elements like maps of hidden treasure, to keep things interesting.
2. Outer Space Exploration: You can bring the galaxy into your child’s room by decorating it with posters of space travel. Imagine rocket ships, spaceships, planets, and stars. Combine printable posters of astronauts in action with constellations. Your child can explore the universe from the comfort of their own room with this theme, which is especially excellent for fostering a sense of wonder and curiosity.
3. Animal Kingdom: Why not set up an animal kingdom in your child’s room if they have a fondness for animals? Select posters featuring a variety of animals, ranging from adorable pets to magnificent wild animals. Whether your child is interested in farm animals, safari animals, or forest animals, the beauty of printable posters is that you can choose designs that reflect their individuality.Mixing and matching various prints creates a playful yet cohesive look.
Using Printable Posters in Various Styles
Not only do printable posters work well for thematic rooms, but they can also seamlessly integrate into various interior styles. Here’s how to incorporate them into some of the most popular room designs:
1. Minimalist Style: Subtle, minimalist printable posters can still add personality to a space if you prefer simple lines and muted hues. Select prints with straightforward patterns, such as abstract art, geometric shapes, or serene black-and-white images. The appeal of minimalist design is that it allows the posters to take center stage without overwhelming the room.
2. Boho Vibes: Cozy comfort and eclectic charm are key components of bohemian style. Include printable posters with designs inspired by nature, lively colors, or free-form patterns. Consider posters featuring mountainscapes, feathers, or dream catchers. These patterns look fantastic paired with textured textiles like woven rugs and macramé wall hangings, creating a calm yet creative vibe in the space.
3. Contemporary Chic: Use eye-catching, printable posters for a contemporary, stylish space. Consider large typefaces, modern artwork, or even well-known figures from popular culture. These prints look great with simple furnishings and add a pop of color to a room that would otherwise be plain. By pairing contemporary furniture with chic prints, you can create a stylish, youthful atmosphere.
Incorporating Quotes for Inspiration
Adding inspirational or motivational sayings to your child’s room is another fantastic advantage of printable posters. Imagine hearing a reminder like “You Are Enough” or “Dream Big” every morning when you wake up. These brief statements can change a child’s perspective for the better.
Consider using posters that feature quotes in an engaging typeface. The text can even be altered to reflect your child’s passions or goals, such as “Explorer at Heart” or “Future Scientist.” These posters will not only add a unique touch to the space, but they will also promote an optimistic mindset. Framing and Displaying Your Posters
Once you’ve found the perfect designs, the next step is to frame and display them. Framing your printable posters adds a professional touch to the overall look of the room. But don’t worry, you don’t have to spend a lot on fancy frames. There are plenty of affordable options available at home décor stores, or you can even make your own DIY frames with inexpensive materials.
For a fun twist, consider using washi tape or clothespins to hang the posters, especially if you’re aiming for a more casual, laid-back vibe. This makes it easy to rotate the artwork as your child’s interests evolve, without having to commit to permanent wall hangings.
Tips for Perfect Placement
When positioning your posters, consider the overall flow of the room. Here are a few tips:
Make a Gallery Wall: To achieve a unified gallery wall effect, place several posters in a grid-like pattern on a single wall. For posters with different themes or styles, this is a particularly fantastic look.
Mix Sizes: Feel free to experiment with different poster sizes. A mix of large and small posters adds visual interest and a lively vibe to the space.
Above the Desk or Bed: Placing posters above a desk or bed is a common and wise decision. It can serve as an anchor for the room, directing the eye upward.
Near Shelving Units: Placing posters close to bookcases or toy storage sections unifies the room and fosters harmony and balance.
Conclusion: A Room That Grows with Your Child
Without the trouble or cost of making permanent changes, printable posters provide a quick and enjoyable way to decorate your child’s room. They offer an excellent opportunity to embrace your child’s personality, creativity, and interests. Printable posters are a versatile tool that can help you bring your vision for a space to life, whether it is educational, inspirational, or playful.
What’s the best part? Your child’s room can grow with them. You can maintain the room’s excitement, freshness, and alignment with your child’s changing preferences by simply changing the posters. With numerous design options, printable posters for children’s rooms are more than just a short-term solution; they’re a means to create an environment that fosters creativity and brings happiness for years to come.
FAQs About Printable Posters for Kids’ Rooms
1. Where can I locate printable posters for children’s rooms?
Printable posters are available on various websites that specialize in home décor, including Etsy, Pinterest, and print-downloading websites. Many of these websites offer free or reasonably priced designs for your child’s room, available in a variety of themes, colors, and styles.
2. How are the posters to be printed?
You can take the digital files to a nearby print shop or use your home printer to print your posters. For the best results, choose high-quality paper; satin or matte finishes frequently look more polished. If you’re unsure, many print shops can help you select the appropriate paper type.
3. Is it possible to personalize printable posters for my child’s room?
Of course! You can personalize many printable poster designs by adding your child’s name, selecting specific colors, or creating original themes. You can easily alter your designs before printing with the help of websites like Canva or Adobe Express.
4. How can I ensure that the poster sizes are appropriate for my area?
Measure the wall area where the posters will be hung before printing. After that, you can use a design tool like Adobe Acrobat or Canva to change the print’s size to match the size of your room. Select the suitable size for your wall, as many printable posters are available in 8×10, 11×14, and larger formats.
5. How should the posters be hung in my child’s room?
It’s easy to hang your printable posters! For a polished appearance, use conventional frames; alternatively, for a simple, no-fuss solution, get creative with washi tape, clothespins, or picture hanging strips. Use a corkboard or a wire with clips to switch up the designs as your child’s preferences change, if you want to keep things interesting.
6. Are all age groups able to use printable posters?
Indeed! There are printable poster designs for infants, toddlers, and older children. There is a printable poster to fit every age and personality, whether you’re looking for something educational for a preschooler or more sophisticated artwork for a preteen. Simply update the designs to reflect your child’s evolving interests as they grow older.
7. Is it possible to use printable posters for purposes other than walls?
Of course! The room can be creatively decorated with printable posters. They can be used in DIY projects, such as wrapping paper, lampshades, and bookends. To give the space a more unique feel, they can also be utilized as school supplies, scrapbooking projects, or as a component of a bigger artwork.
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These days, I only take long trips that require packing a suitcase about once a year. Because of that, I don’t spend much time looking at the luggage in my house, and when the time comes once again to lug them out and pack them up, it dawns on me. Oh, right: My suitcases are all pretty old. And aside from one teal-hued hard-shell roller, they’re all plain black. This becomes especially apparent at baggage claim, when I’m squinting at a sea of monochrome rectangles and feeling jealous of any pops of color I see.
As much as I’d like to treat myself to a luggage refresh, quality travel suitcases can be quite pricey. So, when I hear about luggage that looks nice, performs well, and won’t totally break the bank, I pay attention — and the latest brand to join the affordable suitcase game comes from none other than Drew Barrymore, who just dropped a collection of hardside luggage that’s simply, well, beautiful.
What Is the Beautiful by Drew Barrymore Luggage Collection?
Founded by the eponymous actress, Beautiful by Drew Barrymore originally came on the scene as a cookware brand. The brand has since expanded substantially; it now sells furniture, home decor, bedding, pet products, and now, lucky for me, luggage.
Beautiful’s first luggage collection is available at Walmart and consists of three different hardshell rolling suitcases with retractable handles. There’s a 20-inch carry-on suitcase and two suitcases (one 24-inch and one 28-inch) that are meant to be checked.
Shoppers can choose from three elegant colors — Porcini Taupe, Rose Pink, and Starry Night — but no matter what shade or size you go with, the interior of each suitcase prioritizes organization, containing “two compression straps, two expandable pockets perfect for shoes, two open pockets, and two zippered pockets for organized packing.” This is perfect for holiday travel — bringing back new gifts and dirty laundry can pose quite the conundrum — but also just regular weekend trips.
What Makes Beautiful By Drew Barrymore Luggage So Great
A celebrity-fronted brand could easily hike up its prices. However, the cost of Barrymore’s luggage line is actually quite reasonable, especially for pieces that will look chic and distinct coming down the carousel at baggage claim. (For comparison, a 28-inch checked bag from Samsonite retails for $149.99, while Beautiful’s is $109.)
The available colors are also quite nice to look at, and a lifetime of dark, drab suitcases makes me really appreciate the lighter shades and playful interior print. Plus, since you can get the whole three-piece set for under $300, it feels feasible to get one in each size for a true luggage refresh. Make your travels a bit easier by getting each one in the same color, or switch things up and try one of each shade. Hey, it might even get you excited about packing.
Maybe it’s due to the latest Wicked film, Wicked: For Good, but I haven’t been able to stop thinking about actress Kirsten Bell’s Wicked-themed Christmas tree from last year – I think it taps perfectly into the bold, maximalist styles we’re seeing this year.
This year, Christmas trends have been overwhelmingly bold. With oodles of tinsel, hoards of glittery baubles, nutcrackers, streamers, and, of course, XL bows, Christmas this year is one big celebration of personality and nostalgia.
If you’ve been feeling inspired to turn your Christmas decorating ideas into an expression of self, Kristen Bell’s Wicked tree is a perfect source of inspiration. It’s quirky and fun, whilst showing the star’s love for the musical.
Kristen Bell’s Wicked tree
Wickedcore has been a huge interiors trend for the past couple of years as fans have waited in anticipation for the completion of the film franchise adapted from the iconic musical. It also made us all realise that pink and green make a surprisingly chic combination.
Kristen shared the tree in an Instagram post, and fans were quick to praise her creativity. It features a yellow brick road leading up to the tree, and the legs of the Wicked Witch of the East poking out at the base of the tree.
‘The Wicked tree is still having its moment in 2025 because it taps into the cultural phenomenon that is Wicked. With the new film, Wicked: For Good, interest in Wicked-inspired décor has surged, and the timing aligns perfectly with Christmas,’ commented Sales Manager at Christmas Tree World, David Sumner.
‘We’ve also seen a growing appetite for whimsical, dramatic decorations, such as this tree. Displays that tell a story offer a sense of escapism and joy, allowing people to bring a little fantasy into their homes, and what better time to do that than during the magical festive season?’
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‘People aren’t just decorating for the sake of tradition anymore; they’re decorating to express a mood, a memory, or a bit of their personality. Whether it’s a nostalgic theme, a pop-culture reference, or a playful story, themed trees give people the chance to be more creative and intentional with their decor. They make a statement, they’re fun to put together, and they help create a really immersive festive atmosphere, which is why we’re seeing more of them each year,’ says David.
How to get the look
If you’re feeling a little inspired by Kristen’s tree, then don’t feel overwhelmed by the idea of putting together a themed Christmas tree – if it’s a theme you care about, it’s easier to create a cohesive look.
Pink decor already lends itself very well to the festive season.
(Image credit: Future PLC / Colin Poole)
‘If you’ve got a child running around the house singing songs from the new film, then a tree like this is a brilliant way to make their interests feel appreciated, and it works for parents who love a maximalist theme,’ suggests Chloe Barrow, interior expert at Laura James.
‘The fashion and interiors in Wicked are incredibly kitsch and this can easily translate into homes that already lean into this trend, perhaps with colour blocking sofas or printed wallpaper. I’d advise going all-in to really make the themed tree effective. Giant pink bows and sparkly baubles are the perfect way to go, but don’t stop there. Add bright pink fairy lights and tinsel to make a true maximalist statement.’
Add to basket
M&S
Wicked™ Elphaba Hanging Decoration
M&S is selling a range of character baubles from the Wicked franchise – but you’ll have to be quick as they’re selling fast.
Kunjocy
10 Meters Christmas Tinsel Garland
Use pink tinself to define the pink and green colour theme on your tree. You’ll see for yourself how well the two colours work together.
Habitat
Habitat Pack of 24 Shatterproof Timeless Christmas Baubles
Green baubles can be used alongside the pink tinsel for a Chirstmas tree packed full of Character.
Kristen Bell’s Wicked tree is a beautiful, maximalist example of how you can inject nostalgia and personality into your Christmas decor. If you were to create a themed Christmas tree, we’d love to know what you’d choose.
Victoria Beckham is undeniably a tastemaker of the highest calibre who has a great eye for both fashion and interiors. Which is why I – and many others – pay attention whenever she gives something the thumbs up. The latest interior trend to receive Victoria Beckham’s seal of approval is swapping out a regular coffee table for a large ottoman or a footstool, as she has done in her own living room.
This home decor trend made an appearance in an Instagram reel that the fashion designer recently posted on her account followed by over 33 million people. The video sees Victoria sitting on her sofa in what appears to be her London home, singing along as her son Cruz Beckham plays the guitar. But what caught my eye – similarly to when the Ideal Home team was taken with Victoria’s white glossy kitchen last month – was the absence of a regular coffee table which was replaced by a huge olive green ottoman.
This is an increasingly popular living room trend that I’m seeing in many high-end homes, but I had my reservations at first about the practicality of this switch. An ottoman is, of course, much softer than a traditional coffee table – so how can one put a cup of tea or a plate of snacks on top of it without risking spillage? But interior experts are fully on board with this look and back it as an alternative.
‘Ottomans offer a relaxed and versatile alternative to a traditional coffee table,’ says Julia Bilotta, creative stylist at Sofology. ‘They help to unify the look and feel of your upholstery, offering an opportunity to add a new fabric choice – be it a complementary plain or characterful print. Ottomans are highly multifunctional, serving as a table, extra seating and a storage solution all in one.’
(Image credit: Future PLC/Rachael Smith)
And the pros have an easy practical solution for my conundrum, too. It all lies in the addition of a good – and ideally a pretty and stylish – tray. ‘Of course there are practical considerations,’ say Liz and Sarah Hellmer, co-directors of Lathams. ‘If you are accessorising with books, ornaments and candles, or serving drinks and snacks, you will want a sturdy tray so you limit spill risk and denting on upholstery.’
Tray top picks
Dunelm
Sophie Robinson Large Wavy Edge Tray
This tray is not only pretty and fun with its wavy edges and bold green shade, it’s also bigger than most similar alternatives.
H&M Home
Lacquered tray
Even a small home accessory like a tray can provide an opportunity to incorporate more pattern. This chequered H&M Home number is the perfect example.
M&S
Rattan Round Tray
Soft curves and rounded edges are welcome even when it comes to trays for your ottoman. This rattan design from M&S is especially chic.
What ottoman should you pick?
For this coffee table alternative to work, you need to pick the right ottoman from the many available on the market – it’s all down to the design and upholstery choice. For example, leather tends to be a harder material – and therefore more stable to rest things on. ‘The fabric choice is key; performance upholstery, boucle, leather, a rich woven texture or patterns hold up better in everyday living,’ Liz and Sarah at Lathams say.
(Image credit: Future PLC/Paul Massey)
Meanwhile, Kellie Wyles, head of upholstery at DFS, recommends a more traditional ottoman design to swap out your coffee table for. ‘Opting for a plush, upholstered Chesterfield-style buttoned lid with elegant wooden feet is a timeless choice.’
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(Image credit: Future PLC/Katie Lee)
And don’t let a living room storage idea and opportunity go to waste if you’re running out of space to put your things. ‘Built-in storage helps keep living areas tidy by concealing items like magazines, toys or cushions. They are also a great choice for small spaces, where their multifunctionality and built-in storage can help maximise the room without overcrowding it,’ Julia at Sofology says.
Top ottoman picks
Swoon
Plymouth Footstool in Easy Velvet Biscuit
Kellie at DFS recommends a Chesterfield-style ottoman with wooden legs – this Swoon design is exactly that. And the neutral-coloured velvet and bobbin legs make it look especially elevated.
Habitat x Morris & Co.
Merton Sunflower Fabric Footstool
Habitat’s Morris & Co. armchair covered in the classic Sunflower print was a sellout success. And I just found this matching ottoman that will look stunning either on its own or paired with said chair – but best be quick before this one goes, too.
DUSK
Soho Ottoman Storage Pouffe in Dark Olive
If you’re into the dark olive green shade of Victoria Beckham’s large ottoman, you’ll love this number from DUSK. And if you’re short on storage space, you’re going to love the storage design within, too.
‘Ottomans instinctively signal comfort; there’s something very relaxed and luxurious about putting your feet up with a book and a cup of tea. They are especially wonderful in rooms where you want a sense of warmth and tactility,’ Liz and Sarah at Lathams conclude.
If you’ll be buying a real Christmas tree for your home this year, there’s one trick that will keep it fresh for longer – and you’ll need to do it right before you stand your tree in water.
Of course, knowing how to care for a Christmas tree properly will extend its life more generally – but when I spoke to B&Q’s lead outdoor buyer, Mark Sage, he told me about the one thing he recommends to Christmas tree buyers taking their tree home for the first time.
It’s all to do with the base of the trunk – and all you’ll need is a handsaw.
When Mark gave me a mini masterclass on the UK’s most popular Christmas trees, I learned a lot. For one, the Nordmann fir takes the lead – and it’s also one of the best Christmas trees you can buy if you have pets, thanks to its brilliant needle retention.
What really piqued my interest, though, were Mark’s tips for increasing a Christmas tree’s lifespan – and the most important move should be made as soon as you bring your tree home. B&Q calls it ‘the crucial cut’.
‘Before standing, it is advised to saw 2.5cm off the base of the trunk,’ Mark explains. ‘This removes the sap ‘plug’ that forms after cutting, allowing the tree to absorb water efficiently.’
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(Image credit: Future PLC/Nathalie Priem)
So, why, exactly, does it work?
‘By cutting the base of the trunk, you effectively reopen those water vessels, allowing the tree to drink water again and survive for longer, as well as slowing down the rate it loses its needles,’ explains Gareth Mitchell, founder of Tree2myDoor.
From there, you’ll need to keep your Christmas tree topped up with water every day. To say they’re thirsty trees would be an understatement – Mark told me they drink over a pint of water each day!
(Image credit: Future PLC/James French Photography)
Slicing an inch off the base of the trunk is a great way to make a Christmas tree last longer, but if you stand it in the wrong place, all that effort could go to waste. In fact, location is key.
‘Keep your tree well away from direct heat sources, such as fireplaces, radiators, and floor vents,’ advises Mark. ‘A cool location ensures the tree loses water slowly, harnessing its lifespan.’
What you’ll need
B&Q
2ft Nordmann Fir Pot Grown Christmas Tree
This Nordmann Fir is available in shorter (2ft) and slightly taller (4ft) sizes.
Draper
Draper Venom First Fix Venom Triple Ground Handsaw
A high-rated handsaw that can cut through wood easily.
GEEZY
GEEZY Christmas Tree Stand with Water Tank
This tree stand holds 1.6 litres of water.
So, when you bring your Christmas tree home, slice an inch off the base of the trunk before you stand it in water. It’s a simple trick, but it’ll make your tree last longer!
It’s Black Friday madness at Ideal Home HQ, as we’re hunting down the best deals for you to browse, and I’ve just found a cracker. IKEA’s Black Friday sale is about to go live, and here you can snap up a sofa for a little as £50.
With so many sales to muddle through, finding the best Black Friday deals can feel like a full-time job (it is!). But one you should be browsing is IKEA’s Black Friday event, which goes live tomorrow (24 November).
With sofas reduced to just £50 to a sleek acacia wood dining table reduced to £29 from £129, there are huge savings to be made. This is everything you need to know.
(Image credit: IKEA)
IKEA has said this is one of their most ‘dramatic discount events ever.’ Running from Monday until 1 December, shoppers can snap up key furniture and home accessories at a bargain price – ideal for anyone looking to update their home on a budget.
The standout deal is the BACKSÄLEN 2-seater sofa in the versatile Hallarp Grey colourway, which will be reduced from £399 to just £50 – a huge reduction of 87%. It’s a simple, two-seater sofa whose neutral colourway will suit most living room colour schemes.
However, when Sara Hesikova, Ideal Home’s Room Decor Editor and Certified Expert on Furniture, tested the sofa for herself, she was left unimpressed by how thin the cushions were. So while one of the best sofas, the BACKSÄLEN 2-seater sofa may not be, for £50 I still believe it is a good deal, especially for students or if you’re working to a small budget.
Instead, the IKEA sofa worth investing in is the IKEA VIMLE, which is £530 for a two-seater. It’s modular, comfortable and offers deep seating so you can kick back and relax.
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(Image credit: IKEA)
The other deal I’m excited about is the NACKANÄS Dining Table, which will be reduced by 78%, going down from £129 to just £29. In my book, snapping a dining table (that isn’t second-hand) for under £30 is practically unheard of.
Made from durable and beautiful acacia wood, this Shaker-inspired table seats two to four people comfortably. Its round shape also makes it well-suited for small dining rooms, as it can squeeze into most spaces.
Also on offer is the PORTLAKMÅLLA bed linen, which will be reduced from £20 to an incredible £3 – I’m not sure you’ll find bedding anywhere cheaper. Decked out in stylish green and white stripes, it’s certainly a bold choice, but without doubt a funky one, too. I’ve said it before, IKEA is the new Urban Outfitters, and this bedding is proof of this all bar price.
‘At IKEA UK, our goal has always been to make everyday life better for the many people. That’s why, this Black Friday, we’re excited to offer our customers meaningful savings on well-designed, quality home furnishings. Whether you’re refreshing your space for the new season or finding the perfect gift, we invite everyone to shop smarter and more affordably with IKEA this Black Friday,’ said a Spokesperson for IKEA UK.
With items such as plant pots, candle holders and storage starting at as little as 25p, IKEA is where I’m heading to grab a bargain this Black Friday. What about you?
Other bargain Black Friday sofas
If you’re in the market for a sofa, but not a fan of the IKEA BACKSÄLEN I’ve picked out two other sofa deals worth checking out this week.
Habitat
Habitat Julien Velvet 2 Seater Sofa – Natural
This stunning sofa is Ideal Home’s best rated budget sofa, and right now you can snag an extra 20% off with the code ‘FURN20’. It may not be £50, but it looks incredible and is super comfortable.
Wayfair.co.uk
17 Stories Quinston 2 Seater Corduroy Sofa
This stylish green sofa is a great price under £200. We haven’t test it, but it has hundreds of five-star reviews praising how comfortable and easy to assemble it is.
