As we get further and further into the chillier months, it’s becoming even more important to ensure our outdoor drains are in top condition. After all, the combination of wet weather and a blocked drain never has a desirable outcome – this is why cleaning experts want you to pour washing up liquid down your drains this autumn.
If you’re looking to floodproof your home this winter, knowing how to unblock your sink and drains is paramount. Build-ups of debris, grease and grime can stop your plumbing from working as it should and, in a worst-case scenario, cause flooding.
If your outdoor drains are starting to clog, cleaning experts have revealed that washing up liquid can be an excellent solution. Cheap, easy to use and effective, here’s why experts want you to pour washing up liquid down your drains this autumn and winter.
How to unblock a drain with washing up liquid
Washing up liquid will always be one of the best cleaning products you can own due to how it can eliminate grease and grime from your dirty dishes. But you know it has the same effect on your drains.
(Image credit: Getty Images)
‘During the wetter months, outdoor drains can often become slow to drain or blocked as rainwater carries leaves, mud and debris into the pipework. Pouring a little washing-up liquid followed by hot water down the drain can be an effective first step to get things flowing again. The washing-up liquid helps to break down greasy deposits and loosen trapped debris, while the hot water flushes it through more easily,’ explains Chris Houghton, home expert at home emergency and cover specialists, HomeServe.
‘It’s a simple, low-cost trick that can make a real difference before a small blockage turns into something more serious. We recommend using this method every four to six weeks, depending on how much rain there has been.’
Another reason this method works is that fat, oil and grease can be the primary cause of blockages with outside drains connected to your kitchen.
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‘The washing-up liquid, a powerful detergent, acts as a degreaser and emulsifier. It works by chemically breaking down the grease molecules and encapsulating them. Simultaneously, the hot water serves to melt or soften the solidified FOG (Fat, Oil and Grease),’ says Nancy Emery, cleaning expert at Drench
‘The combination of the heat and the detergent’s chemical reaction liquefies the blockage, allowing it to be broken apart and flushed away, restoring the normal function of the outdoor drains.
Is this a good method to use?
If you’re looking for a cheap, easy-to-use and effective method to unblock your drains then using washing up liquid is a great solution to try.
(Image credit: Getty Images)
‘The washing-up liquid and hot water technique is an excellent first method to use for outdoor drain blockages specifically caused by fat and grease, as it is simple, inexpensive, and non-corrosive to pipework. However, if the blockage persists after several attempts or if the primary cause is a significant buildup of leaves, twigs, silt, or mud, other methods may be more effective,’ says Nancy.
‘For these types of blockages, manual clearing of debris, using Drain Rods or a plumber’s snake to physically break up deeper obstructions, is often the best approach. You can also flush the drain with a high-pressure hose or water jet to dislodge solid material. For very stubborn clogs, or when the location of the issue is unknown, the most reliable course of action is to stop DIY attempts and contact a professional drainage specialist.’
A drain rod works by physically breaking up the blockage inside the drain. These flexible poles screw together to reach up to nine meters, so you can fix those hard-to-reach blockages.
If you’re struggling with drain blockages this winter, reaching for the washing up liquid could be just the tonic you need to get your home’s drainage system in order. If you try it, let us know how you get on.
I love an Aldi specialbuy, but there is one time of year that its bargain homeware finds are at its very best and that is Christmas. I was lucky enough to get a preview of the new Aldi specialbuys before they land in store at their Christmas show, and there are some serious gems coming up.
Starting this week, the budget supermarket will be dropping luxury candles, Aldi cast-iron cookware, elegant wine glasses, coffee machines, and so much more. In typical Aldi style, all of these items look ALOT more expensive than they are, and bear a striking resemblance to many high-end versions…
I’ve been writing about Aldi for 6 years now, so I know which buys come back every year, what will sell out fast, and I have also tested a number of the products in my own home. I’ve pooled all this experience to come up with a shortlist of the specialbuys I’ll be making a beeline for with my trolley, and the buys you don’t want to miss.
Cast-iron sets
(Image credit: Future / Rebecca Knight)
Every year Aldi launches a cast-iron set for Christmas in a small edit of new colours, but this year has my favourite colourways to date.
At the Aldi Christmas show I spied a beautiful ombre green 4-litre cast iron dutch oven priced at an incredible £16.99, and a stunning orange shallow cast iron casserole dish, for £19.99. Both of these will be available from 13th November.
(Image credit: Future / Rebecca Knight)
Aldi has some of the best priced cast iron dishes you can buy, with Habitat’s cast iron cookware the only other retailer coming close at £35 for a 3.3L cast iron casserole dish. I own a complete set of the Aldi cast iron cookware and can vouch for the quality, and surprisingly I’ve found the shallow dish the most useful pan in the set.
Candles and diffusers
(Image credit: Future / Rebecca Knight)
Now this is the Aldi Christmas offering I’m most excited about this year. It’s no secret that Aldi makes good, affordable designer dupe candles. However, if I’m being honest I’ve found the scents and packaging from the last few years a little lacklustre, but not this Christmas.
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They’ve bought back the crowd-pleasing festive inclusion candles and are dropping an Aldi Diptyque candle dupe in store this weekend. However, it was the Hotel Collection Confetti Glass Hurricane Candle, priced at £24.99 and available from 6th Novembe,r that I’m expecting to be a bestseller. It looks almost identical to the Baobab candle that cost £480 at John Lewis, and the Aldi version smells divine.
If you can’t wait for your home scent fix I’m also eyeing up the Extra Large Hotel Collection Diffuser in the Tobacco and Oud scent, priced at £12.99. I loved the smokey and sultry scent of the tobacco, but it is also launching alongside a sweeter Vanilla and Oud, and White Musk and Oud from the 12th October.
But for the true candle fanatics Aldi is also launching an advent candle filled with small version of its Hotel Collection candles. It is priced at £24.99, and available from 26th October, the Aldi candle advent calendar is just cheaper than the Yankee Candle wreath advent calendar which is £28.99, but the Aldi candles are small 50g votives instead of tealights.
(Image credit: Future / Rebecca Knight)
Christmas decorations
In what I think might be a first Aldi is launching a faux Christmas tree on the 30th October, priced at £39.99. While it might not be able to challenge The White Company Nordman Fir Christmas tree, which is one of the best artificial Christmas tree our team has tested, it is an amazing price for such a fluffy tree.
It is available in green and snow-dusted, but after seeing the snowy version in person, that’s the one I’d go for.
(Image credit: Future / Rebecca Knight)
If you already have the tree sorted, then I’d suggest you turn your attention to the range of bows and novelty decorations Aldi will be selling in-store from 30th October.
Big bow decorations are going to be everywhere this year and are already selling out at other brands, so keep your eyes peeled for the Aldi version, which is just £2.99 for the tree topper version.
The baubles are a little more playful and focus on some of the brand’s most popular special buys and will include everything from the infamous Aldi air fryer to their iconic cast iron sets for just £3.99.
(Image credit: Future / Rebecca Knight)
Kitchen Appliances
It wouldn’t be Christmas without Aldi dropping a few very well priced kitchen appliances. This year the standout star is set to be the espresso machine they’ve bought back from last year, priced at £59.99 and dropping on 7th December.
To round things off, Christmas is when you can find the best tableware at Aldi. I called out their champagne glasses last year as one of my favourite Aldi Christmas specialbuys for 2024, and this year I was equally taken with the wine glasses, that are priced £8.99 for a set and will be landing in store on 27th November.
Finally don’t overlook the 18-piece Laguiole Cutlery set priced at £16.99, and almost identical Laguiole Cutlery set will cost you back £165 at John Lewis. I invested in the Aldi set two years ago and use it everyday; it’s only recently started to show any signs of wear.
(Image credit: Future / Rebecca Knight)
This is just a sneak peak of what’s to come over the next few months from Aldi. Which buy will you be keeping an eye out for in store?
There are a lot of reasons to invest in a good sofa bed. This multifunctional furniture works hard for its floor space in your home, offering seating and sleeping space for overnight guests.
However, as Ideal Home’s Sleep Editor, I’ve tested dozens of sleeper sofas for our guide to the best sofa beds, and one thing I can tell you is that, generally speaking, sofa beds aren’t that pretty.
That is, they weren’t. At least not until furniture brand Swyft launched its recent Morris & Co collaboration, which sees the already stylish Swyft Model 08 Sofa Bed upholstered in four super-pretty floral prints.
Swyft x Morris & Co
‘Blackthorn’ Model 08 Sofa Bed
There’s the bestselling ‘Blackthorn’ print, the fun ‘Fruit’ colourway, the timeless blue and white ‘Standen’ print, and the elegant ‘Willow’ print in sage green and cream.
Is this now the prettiest sofa bed on the market? Beauty is subjective, but I’ve visited more than twenty furniture showrooms over the last four years and browsed through all the upholstery options under the sun.
In my opinion, yes, the Model 08’s streamlined silhouette upholstered in these four new fabrics makes this the prettiest sofa bed you can buy.
Swyft x Morris & Co
‘Standen’ Model 08 Sofa Bed
Swyft x Morris & Co
‘Fruit’ Model 08 Sofa Bed
Swyft x Morris & Co
‘Willow’ Model 08 Sofa Bed
I’d definitely be more than happy having any one of these sofa beds in my own home. However, style isn’t all the Swyft Model O8 has to offer.
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This sofa bed offers seating and sleeping for two. There’s a full-size double mattress hidden in its depths. Plus, thanks to its cleverly designed slim armrests, it also offers a compact footprint that’s ideal for incorporating into a small living room design idea.
If, like me, you live in a home that has awkward delivery access, you’ll also be delighted to know that this sofa bed is delivered flat-packed in two reasonably sized boxes. That means it can easily fit through any doorway or be carried up a twisting staircase without headaches.
And once it’s unboxed, this isn’t an IKEA sofa bed that can take a good hour to assemble. It’s simply a case of screwing on the feet and slotting the armrests and backrest into place via the brand’s tool-less locking system. Ideal Home’s Heather put together the Swyft Model 04 sofa bed with no problems when she reviewed it.
Even better, Swyft also offers an assembly service that you can book at checkout if you don’t fancy doing any DIY delivery day.
(Image credit: Swyft)
Admittedly, this sofa bed isn’t cheap. Although the current discount from £2,099 to £1,699 is very welcome indeed. However, I do think it’s worth it to get your hands on a sofa bed that’s this pretty as well as so practical.
It’s certainly making me reassess my living room setup to see if just *maybe* I could squeeze it into my home.
When it comes to deciding on your kitchen paint, there are a lot of considerations to take into account. Firstly, deciding on a kitchen colour scheme that will evoke joy on a daily basis but will remain a favourite for years to come. Then comes the more practical decision: choosing a paint finish.
Farrow & Ball’s latest paint release makes this choice simple. Their latest paint finish, ‘Flat Eggshell’, completes their Interior Range and is a specifically hardwearing blend that is designed for interior wood and metal.
In short, it’s perfectly suited to a kitchen. Whether you’re painting your kitchen walls or you have decided to paint your kitchen cabinets, you’ll need a paint that is resistant to scratches and scuffs, and most importantly, can be scrubbed when spillages occur. Here’s why this might be a great paint choice for you, alongside some Farrow & Ball colour inspiration.
(Image credit: Farrow & Ball)
When considering which paint finish to opt for in a kitchen, durability is key. It needs to withstand scuffs that naturally occur over time and be hardwearing enough that you can give your cupboards or walls a scrub without worrying about ruining paintwork.
When I asked experts which paint finish was best for kitchen walls, the answer was a resounding ‘satin’. Paints with sheen tend to wear better, however, this isn’t always the desired look. If you want a paint finish for your walls or cabinets with a lower sheen, Farrow & Ball’s flat eggshell only has a 20% sheen finish, making it much less noticeable.
This lower sheen finish will subtly highlight these areas, helping to bounce light across a room and add dimension, without a ‘shiny’ look. While matt finishes might give you a super pared-back look, they often show up grubby fingerprints which is less than ideal in a busy cooking space.
(Image credit: Farrow & Ball)
‘Flat Eggshell combines our handcrafted approach, the highest quality ingredients and our cutting-edge technical expertise. We designed it with both DIYers and professionals in mind. The water-based formula is quick drying, quick curing and has the lowest possible VOC rating, so you can enjoy your finished space even sooner,’ explains Gareth Hayfield, head of research and technical development at Farrow & Ball.
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When you’re painting a kitchen yourself, whether it’s just the walls or you’re embarking on cabinetry too, the paint needs to be foolproof. With this new shade, you get the beauty and depth of Farrow & Ball’s heritage shades, alongside a truly practical paint finish that doesn’t require tricks of the trade in order to apply well.
(Image credit: Farrow & Ball)
If you’re considering a kitchen refresh, then this new finish really is a no-brainer. Plus, it’s available across the range of beautiful shades.
Burgundy is a huge trend for autumn winter 2025, and going into 2026, which Paean Black is perfect for (don’t let the name deceive you!). You can see the rich purpley hue in all its glory in Charli Howard’s home tour.
Green shades are always a winner in a kitchen too, helping to tie the outside into your interiors. If you want to add dimension, Etruscan Red will add the ultimate deep, moody touch. It’s surprisingly one of the best Farrow & Ball shades for small kitchens, too.
Shop Farrow & Ball Flat Eggshell paints
Farrow & Ball ‘Sulking Room Pink’
This is the perfect pink shade for lovers of the shade and those who are on the fence. It’s a muted dusty rose shade which is soft and easy to use.
Farrow & Ball ‘Paean Black’
I can’t get enough of this shade after seeing it next to pale pink walls in Charli Howard’s kitchen. The combination brings out the purple hues for a super soft look.
Farrow & Ball ‘French Gray’
The name is deceiving – this shade actually leans more sage green than it does grey. It will look classic on Shaker cabinetry.
Farrow & Ball Estate ‘Green Smoke’
Sitting somewhere between green and blue, Green Smoke has an antique touch popular in homes in the 19th Century. It pairs beautifully with paler tones like Farrow & Ball’s Eddy or Vert de Terre.
Farrow & Ball Estate ‘Joa’s White’
The warm undertones make Joa’s White the perfect inviting kitchen hue, but it’s also handy for high traffic spaces thanks to a chalky finish that minimises imperfections.
Farrow & Ball
Etruscan Red
With earthy brown undertones, Etruscan Red adds a heritage touch to a kitchen. It’s inspired by ancient civilisation and is rich without overwhelming a small space .
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
As the weather starts to cool down, you might be wanting to spend more time at home, which means you might start eyeing ways to make your living room an even better place to, well, live — especially if your living room is small. This doesn’t have to mean huge revamps or big splurges. Some new decor or a little storage switch-up can make a big difference. There’s always something new to be found at Aldi, and this practical, versatile table is a great addition to your couch, guest room, bedroom, or even hallway.
What Is the Aldi SOHL Extra Large Couch Table?
Put simply, the Aldi SOHL Extra Large Couch Table is a C-shaped table that retails for $24.99 and is technically designed to be pressed up against any sofa. This couch table has two legs, not four, and a thin metal base that keeps it sturdy and elevated while leaving plenty of room underneath. You can pull the table directly against the side of a couch or bed, or use it as a desk in front of you without fear of accidentally kicking its legs.
If you have a small home, you may be confused about why I’m recommending a piece of furniture with “extra large” in the title. But as it turns out, this Aldi side table is not actually that “extra large.” It measures a little over 2 feet high, a little over a foot wide, and almost 2 feet long. Sure, it’s not tiny, but a table can’t be too small or you wouldn’t be able to fit anything on it. This should give you plenty of room for items like a laptop, a plate of food, a book, or those three beverages you keep by your side at all times.
An Alternative to Shop if You’re Not Near an Aldi
There are Aldi locations in 39 U.S. states, but if yours isn’t on that list (or if you just don’t feel like driving over there), you can still get your hands on a convenient little table for your couch. Walmart sells a similar C-shaped end table, with the same kind of wood top and black base. It’s currently quite discounted, bringing the price from $55.99 to just $28.95. If you want to get nitpicky, note that it’s about 2 inches shorter and narrower than the Aldi table, but all in all, it should be a solid alternative. It also comes in a two-pack for $50!
With two adults, five kids, two dogs, ducks, chickens and a whole colony of bees living in or around Pickle Cottage, it’s fair to say that Stacey Solomon has her hands full. And while it’s no secret that she has a passion for all things cleaning and organising, she’s recently revealed that she now has a helping hand to keep Pickle Cottage spotless: her Kärcher robot vacuum cleaner and mop.
Sadly, Stacey’s beloved Kärcher RCV 3 Robot Vacuum Cleaner (or her ‘new best friend’ as she’s called it) is no longer available on Amazon as it sold out during the Amazon Prime Day deals. But I’ve found the exact same model on sale at Very for just £299 right now, making it one of the cheapest robot vacuums you can buy.
Of course, the best robot vacuum cleaners have been around for many years now, but Stacey sharing her love for her robot vacuum on Instagram is proof that they’re becoming increasingly popular. After all, this hands-free cleaning appliance was made for busy households like hers!
Kärcher RCV 3 Robot Vacuum Cleaner
App controlled and easy to use, this robot vacuum can both vacuum and mop your floors. It offers up to 120 minutes of run time and uses LiDAR sensor room scanning to create the perfect cleaning map for your home.
She excitedly filmed the white Kärcher robot vacuum cleaning the floors of Pickle Cottage, telling her sister Jemma, ‘Why work harder when you can work smarter? I have to hoover 17.5 times a day with these kids. I’m letting my best friend, the robot, do it because why wouldn’t I?!’
And while Stacey later confirmed with her followers that the robot vacuum she’d bought on Amazon had sold out completely before she could buy another one for her home office, what she didn’t realise is that the Kärcher RCV 3 Robot Vacuum Cleaner is still available elsewhere – and for a discounted price.
(Image credit: Kärcher)
In fact, it’s down from its RRP of £349 to just £299 at multiple retailers, including Currys, B&Q and even directly through the Kärcher website.
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This makes it almost as affordable as the cheapest vacuum cleaner I’ve ever tested as Ideal Home’s Vacuum Expert, the HG2 Turbo Slim Hydro Robot Vacuum Cleaner, which is £269 at Very. Both can store multiple maps for different floors of your home, are compact and small enough to fit underneath furniture, and will vacuum and mop your floors.
The Kärcher RCV 3 Robot Vacuum Cleaner is also fairly well received by happy customers, with one person saying, ‘I feel better with my allergies, and it just makes me smile when I can have a cup of tea while it’s cleaning instead of me. Would 100% recommend.’
However, it’s worth noting that the reviews of the Kärcher RCV 3 Robot Vacuum Cleaner aren’t all good. Some have criticised the overall cleaning power – and this is something to be aware of in the specs. After all, the Kärcher offers just 2500Pa of suction power (which is on the lower end of the spectrum), while the Hoover HG2 offers a more powerful 6,000Pa.
(Image credit: Kärcher)
One of the things I think everyone should know before buying a robot vacuum is that auto-empty docking stations can be a game-changer, so it’s worth noting that this particular model doesn’t have this either. So, you’ll need to keep on top of emptying the 500ml dust container regularly.
With this in mind, I do think Stacey Solomon’s choice of robot vacuum cleaner would be ideal if you’re looking for something to quickly mop and vacuum your floors in between your bigger vacuums.
But if you really want to take advantage of hands-free cleaning (and have a bit of extra money to spend), these are the other robot vacuum cleaners I’d recommend as someone who has tested them in my own home with a very critical eye.
Alternative robot vacuum cleaners
Eufy Robot Vacuum Omni E25
Crowned the ‘best overall’ robot vacuum I’ve ever tested, this particular model boasts a whopping 20,000Pa of suction and utilises impressive jet technology for exceptional mopping. It’s an investment, but one I definitely don’t think you’ll regret.
If you have a lot of hard flooring in your home, this is the model I’d recommend for you. The docking station is sleek and slimline, and the dual rotating pads are ideal for mopping. It also offers 10,000Pa of suction power.
Shark PowerDetect NeverTouch 2-in-1 Robot Vacuum and Mop
This Shark robot vacuum cleaner is ideal for everyday use, thanks to its easy-to-use app. It’s not as powerful as my other alternatives, but it does auto-adjust its suction power depending on the debris it detects. Plus, the docking station is a lot smaller than the others.
If you haven’t bought a robot vacuum cleaner for your home yet, I’d seriously recommend one. And maybe Stacey Solomon’s ‘best friend’ could be yours too!
Olivia Harvey is a freelance writer and award-winning scriptwriter from outside Boston, Massachusetts. She’s a big fan of scented candles, getting dressed up, and the 2005 film adaptation of Pride and Prejudice starring Keira Knightley. You can make sure she’s doing okay via…read more
There’s something undeniably magnetic about mid-century modern design. It’s not just about furniture, it’s a philosophy that champions simplicity, functionality, and style all at once. Born in the post-war 1940s and thriving through the 1960s, this design movement is still shaping how we decorate today. Think sleek lines, organic shapes, and an effortless balance of retro charm and modern living. The best part? You don’t need to overhaul your whole home to embrace it. Here are 19 fresh yet timeless ways to infuse mid-century modern magic into your own space.
Wood paneling instantly transforms a room into a warm, inviting sanctuary. Mid-century designers loved using natural materials, and paneled walls became a defining feature. If you’re worried about it looking outdated, think sleek vertical or horizontal slats in rich walnut or teak instead of the heavy, dark 1970s look. Use paneling on one accent wall or behind a bed’s headboard for a subtle nod to the era. It adds texture, depth, and character without overwhelming the space, creating a backdrop that makes furniture and décor pop.
Geometry is at the heart of mid-century modern design. From kidney-shaped coffee tables to angular credenzas, furniture often played with unexpected forms. Geometric furniture isn’t just stylish, it adds visual rhythm to a room. Try a hexagonal side table, a trapezoid bookshelf, or a triangular-legged chair. These pieces break away from traditional rectangular furniture and create dynamic energy. The key is balance: let one or two geometric statement items take the stage while keeping the rest of the space grounded and simple.
While playful pops of color were a signature of the 50s and 60s, moody tones also made their mark. Deep greens, charcoal grays, and inky blues bring sophistication and coziness to modern spaces. Use moody walls as a dramatic backdrop for lighter furniture or mix them into textiles like velvet pillows, wool throws, or rugs. These hues create intimacy, making even large rooms feel warm and grounded. When paired with wood finishes and metallic accents, moody colors transform into an elegant mid-century palette with timeless appeal.
Mid-century lighting was bold, sculptural, and downright conversation-worthy. Think Sputnik chandeliers, saucer pendants, or sculptural tripod lamps. A unique light fixture is more than illumination,it’s art for your ceiling or corner. Place a statement chandelier in your dining room or a quirky floor lamp in the living room to instantly elevate the space. These designs add movement and drama, creating focal points without clutter. With clean lines and unexpected forms, mid-century lighting makes a space feel instantly curated and stylish.
One of the reasons mid-century modern design remains relevant is its flexibility. It bridges old-world tradition with forward-looking innovation. You don’t have to commit to a full retro makeover, blend mid-century pieces with contemporary or even classic ones. For instance, pair a sleek mid-century sofa with a Persian rug, or mix a minimalist dining set with heirloom China. The contrast highlights each element’s beauty, creating a layered, lived-in look. This balance keeps the style timeless rather than trendy.
Built-in shelving is a mid-century modern classic that combines practicality with sleek design. Instead of bulky storage units, built-ins create clean lines and maximize space, turning walls into functional showcases. Use them to display books, ceramics, plants, or vintage finds, curating the shelves like an art gallery rather than filling them haphazardly. Natural wood finishes like teak or walnut add warmth, while painted shelves in earthy tones can create subtle contrast.
A modern fireplace paired with a mid-century lounge chair is the definition of cozy sophistication. The fireplace provides warmth and a strong focal point, while the chair invites you to sit back and linger. Choose an iconic piece, like the Eames Lounge, a low-slung leather chair, or even a curved armchair, to echo the era’s aesthetic. Add a textured throw, a small side table, and soft lighting to complete the nook. This combination blends mid-century style with timeless comfort, making any living room feel both chic and inviting.
Mid-century homes often featured cozy dining nooks, perfect for family meals or late-night card games. Recreate the vibe with a round pedestal table and upholstered chairs in vibrant tones or textured fabrics. A bench with cushions along the wall adds comfort and intimacy. Add a pendant lamp overhead,something sculptural and warm,to tie it all together. The result? A functional yet stylish corner that makes mealtime feel like a celebration, infused with retro flair.
Curved couches were a mid-century design dream, soft, organic, and utterly glamorous. Unlike boxy modern sofas, these pieces invite conversation by literally curving people toward each other. A curved couch can soften the straight lines of a room and make the space feel more welcoming. Pair it with a circular rug or round coffee table to echo the shapes. Whether upholstered in velvet, tweed, or leather, it becomes an instant showpiece that feels chic and cozy all at once.
Mid-century modern design encourages layering,but not in a cluttered way. It’s about mixing shapes, textures, and scales thoughtfully. Think a sleek wooden credenza topped with a brass lamp, a ceramic vase, and a bold piece of art overhead. Add a patterned rug beneath and a sculptural chair nearby, and suddenly you’ve built depth without chaos. Each piece complements the others, creating a room that feels collected, not decorated. This layered approach keeps your space visually interesting while staying harmonious.
Brass, chrome, and copper accents were everywhere in mid-century homes. They catch the light and bring just enough shine to elevate a room. Incorporate metallic touches through table legs, light fixtures, or even décor objects like vases or trays. Balance them with wood and fabric so the effect feels refined, not flashy. Metallics work beautifully with both moody tones and neutral palettes, tying everything together with subtle glamour. Think of them as the jewelry of your interior.
Minimalism and mid-century modern go hand in hand, both celebrating clean lines, uncluttered spaces, and purposeful design. A minimalist mid-century room pares everything down to essentials: a streamlined sofa, a simple wood credenza, and a few iconic accents. Instead of filling every corner, focus on open space that allows each piece to shine. Natural light, neutral tones, and thoughtful placement bring calm and balance. The beauty lies in restraint, every element has a function, but it also contributes to the room’s harmony. It’s timeless design made refreshingly livable for today.
Mid-century interiors never felt sterile because they embraced a mix of textures. Smooth wood, nubby upholstery, shag rugs, and glossy ceramics all lived happily together. Bring this to life by layering a wool rug under a leather sofa, topping it with a linen throw and velvet pillows. Mixing textures not only adds coziness but also makes the design feel complete and tactile. A space with layered textures invites touch and interaction, creating comfort within style.
Often called the “fifth wall,” the ceiling is an overlooked canvas in many homes. Mid-century design wasn’t afraid to make it part of the aesthetic story. Exposed wooden beams, tongue-and-groove paneling, or even a bold coat of paint can transform the space from ordinary to architectural. For a more subtle touch, try a textured ceiling light or a sleek fan with wood accents. Treating the ceiling as a design feature creates depth and draws the eye upward, giving the room a sense of openness and style.
Mid-century modern style has always embraced the warmth of nature, and its color palettes reflected that beautifully. Earthy tones like terracotta, olive green, mustard yellow, and warm browns create a grounded, organic feel. These hues pair effortlessly with natural woods and metals, making them versatile and timeless. Whether you choose an accent wall in a muted clay shade or add smaller pops through pillows and art, earthy colors create a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere. They anchor a space in comfort while keeping it fresh and stylish.
Bringing the outdoors in is central to mid-century modern living. Houseplants like fiddle-leaf figs, snake plants, and monstera not only add life but also enhance the organic flow of your space. Pair greenery with ceramic or wooden planters to stay true to the style. If you’re lucky enough to have large windows, let natural light pour in with minimal treatments. Nature-inspired artwork, stone accents, or even a simple bowl of fruit on a dining table can also echo this idea. Nature adds serenity and makes interiors feel more connected and alive.
A well-chosen rug can ground a room and pull all the design elements together. Mid-century rugs often featured bold geometric patterns, abstract motifs, or simple textures in neutral tones. Whether you prefer a shag rug for retro flair or a flatwoven piece for a minimalist look, a rug defines zones in open layouts and adds warmth underfoot. It’s an easy way to layer texture and color into the space. Place it beneath a coffee table, under a dining set, or even in the bedroom for an instant design boost.
Nothing captures the true essence of mid-century modern design like vintage treasures. Scouring flea markets, estate sales, or thrift shops can uncover authentic pieces,from ceramic vases to teak sideboards,that carry history and character. These finds not only add authenticity but also make your home feel layered and personal. Don’t worry if a piece shows a bit of wear; patina often adds charm. Mixing vintage décor with newer items keeps your space from feeling like a museum and instead creates a lived-in, collected-over-time atmosphere.
One of the most exciting ways to personalize mid-century modern style is to blend it with rustic touches. While mid-century leans sleek and polished, rustic décor brings warmth, texture, and an earthy soulfulness. Imagine a streamlined walnut credenza paired with a chunky reclaimed-wood coffee table, or a sleek sofa accented by a cozy woven throw. Exposed brick, natural stone, or rough-hewn beams can soften the clean geometry of mid-century furniture. The mix creates a layered look that feels timeless yet fresh, sophisticated but never sterile, making your home inviting, stylish, and uniquely yours.
Finishing Notes
Mid-century modern design remains one of the most versatile and beloved styles in home design because it balances simplicity, warmth, and function so seamlessly. By incorporating these 19 ideas,whether it’s layering textures, adding vintage finds, or blending rustic touches,you can create a home that feels inviting, stylish, and deeply personal. This trend isn’t about recreating a 1950s time capsule; it’s about using timeless elements in fresh, modern ways. At Home Designing, we believe every space tells a story, and mid-century modern gives you the perfect foundation to craft a home that feels both classic and uniquely yours.
Creating a stylish and modern home requires proper planning. A modern interior should feel inviting and organised, not crowded or complicated and it should reflect your lifestyle and make everyday living easier. Therefore, careful consideration of each element is necessary to drive desired outcomes.
Let’s go through ten important things that make any home look fresh, stylish, and modern.
Choose the Right Furniture
Furniture sets the mood for your entire home. Pick pieces that fit your space well and match your daily needs because bulky items can make rooms feel smaller. Simple, clean-lined furniture always looks more modern. For example, oak furniture dining tables are a great choice for dining areas because they bring warmth, strength, and a natural finish that blends with many styles.
Plan a Functional Layout
The layout of your home affects how it looks and how you use it. A modern layout should feel open and easy to move through. So, avoid placing too many items close together, keep walkways clear and make sure each area has a clear purpose, like a reading corner, dining space, or work zone. You can also think about how you naturally move around your home and arrange things to support that. It makes your home feel organised and peaceful.
Keep a Simple Colour Scheme
Modern interiors usually stick to simple colour combinations. Neutral shades like white, beige, or light grey make your home look bright and spacious. You can also add small pops of colour through cushions, rugs, or wall art. Avoid mixing too many strong colours as it can make the room look busy. Use one or two accent shades that repeat across different rooms for a balanced and connected feel.
Focus on Good Lighting
Lighting can completely change how your home feels. Use a mix of ceiling lights, table lamps, and floor lamps. During the day, make use of natural light by keeping windows clear, while in the evening, use warm lights to create a relaxed mood. You can even install dimmers to control brightness. It helps you highlight your furniture, shows off your wall colours, and makes every room feel welcoming.
Mix Different Textures
A modern home should never feel flat or boring. The best way to avoid that is by mixing textures. Combine smooth surfaces like glass or metal with soft fabrics and natural materials. For example, a leather sofa can look great with a soft throw or a fluffy rug, making your room look interesting and feel more comfortable.
Choose Suitable Flooring
Flooring has a big impact on the overall style. Each type of floor is designed to cater to different types of homes. For example, wooden floors are popular in modern homes because they’re durable and timeless, while tiles or laminate work well in busy areas like kitchens. Rugs can add warmth and separate spaces in open-plan homes. Make sure to choose colours that go well with your walls and furniture, and keep your carpets simple and neutral so the space still looks clean and open.
Add Art and Mirrors
Art and mirrors are easy ways to decorate without cluttering your home. A single large artwork can make a strong statement, while smaller framed prints add character. It helps reflect light and make rooms look bigger. Place them where they can bounce natural light around. Make sure not to don’t overdo it because a few thoughtful pieces look better than a lot of random items.
Keep Things Organised
Clutter is the quickest way to ruin a modern look. So, always use smart storage like shelves, baskets, and built-in cabinets to keep your space tidy. Store things where you actually use them, like dishes near the dining area, clothes in the bedroom, and books near the sofa. Try to keep surfaces clear and only display what you really like.
Make Comfort a Priority
Modern homes should look stylish but still feel comfortable. Choose furniture that you can actually relax on and use soft lighting, cushions, and warm fabrics to make the space inviting. Pick materials that are durable and easy to clean, especially if you have kids or pets.
Finish with the Right Details
Small details can bring the whole look together. Add curtains, plants, or simple accessories that suit your colour scheme. You can also use plants to bring life and freshness to the room. When you shop for decor or living room furniture in UK, always look for trusted local options that offer modern and affordable choices. It will protect you from financial scams and also ensure the longevity of these essential elements of your home.
A Final Word
A modern home not only means expensive furniture and stylish layouts, but it also requires smart use of space and a touch of your personal style. By choosing the right furniture, colours, and lighting, and keeping things neat and functional, you can create an interior that’s both stylish and comfortable.
Even though Christmas is still more than two months away, this is the prime time to snap up some of the festive buys that sell out long before the holiday season – advent calendars are at the top of that list. And if you or your loved ones are a candle lover then I recommend the Yankee Candle wreath advent calendar for several reasons.
If you’re after an advent calendar that can offer a little more than just chocolate then this one is one of the best advent calendars, filled with 24 tealight candles in eight different scents, that also won’t break the bank.
And this year, there are two various designs of the wreath-shaped advent calendar available to choose from, each filled with slightly different candle scents. The first, which I myself have managed to get my hands on, is available to shop now with an RRP of £28.99.
Meanwhile the other, slightly more elevated-looking design is available only from Amazon for £41.16. It’s just been released today but it’s already attracted over 100 purchases in the past month through pre-orders.
Yankee Candle Wreath Advent Calendar 2025
Yankee Candle Advent Calendar 2025 Wreath
And considering the likes of the John Lewis scented candle advent calendar selling out in the space of two weeks last year, I wouldn’t wait around before bagging this one either, especially since it’s much more affordably priced. But which one are you going to go for?
Illustrated advent calendar version
(Image credit: Yankee Candle)
There are two main differences between the two Yankee Candle wreath advent calendars – the packaging design and the scents included. The slightly cheaper version comes with two different winter sport illustrations – one on the removable sleeve and the other on the actual calendar, featuring a fun ski slope scene.
It comes filled with 24 tealight-sized scented candles with an additional glass tealight holder on the 1st, same as the other design. But it’s the scents that might sway you – some are the same as in the other version but the ones that you won’t get in that one are Silver Sage & Pine, Amber & Sandalwood, Wild Orchid and Winter Night Stars (the latter being my favourite), three of each.
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(Image credit: Future/Sara Hesikova)
One existing customer wrote, ‘Excellent selection of candles for the whole festive period, perfect for the Christmas countdown, makes my home smell like I have just baked cookies, to the crisper scent of the Christmas tree, the cozy spice of cinamon, all add up to a perfect way to make my whole home smell like Christmas.’
I couldn’t have said it any better than that!
Red advent calendar version
(Image credit: Amazon)
The all-red, single-colour design of this more exclusive take on the Yankee Candle wreath advent calendar is interrupted solely by the logo and some snowflakes. The benefit of this packaging is that it looks a little bit more grown-up.
As for the contents, there are again 24 scented tealights with one tealight holder included. The scents that are the same as the other calendar are Christmas Cookie, Christmas Eve, Cinnamon Stick (another one of my festive favourites) and Black Cherry. But there are some exclusive scents to this version and those are Christmas Magic (blending notes of mandarin and eucalyptus with fir, pine and birch), Balsam & Cedar, Vanilla Cupcake and Warm Cashmere.
Rituals Wreath Advent Calendar 2025
If you’re into the idea of a wreath advent calendar, this Rituals take on the look is even bigger and better, complete with a ribbon so that you can hang it up and filled with some of the best self care goodies such as an overnight body mask or Ayurveda shower oil.
I would personally opt for the slightly cheaper option as you get exactly the same value but for less. But if you love some of the fragrances exclusive to the other design then I’ll understand if you go for that one instead.
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