Living with a little colour and character adds a bright, upbeat feeling to each day. This selection of three modern home designs is jam-packed with ways to incorporate colour and personality into a new decor scheme, or onto an existing neutral backdrop. We’ll see ideas for colourful living spaces with multicoloured modular sofas and eye-catching accent chairs. Bedroom designs come to life with unique wardrobes, lighting, and colour-infused workspaces. An eclectic dining room exudes creativity and originality, where every mealtime feels festive. We’ll also soak up inspiration for supportive interior design concepts along the way, which add stylish finesse to the fun factor.
A striking black and white rug sets down an eye-catching base for our first featured living space. Two black wireframe pendant lights complement the rug’s bold black linework. See more pendant light inspiration.
The curvaceous, sculptural lounge chair is a Serie Up 2000 chair by Gaetano Pesce for B&B Italia. It snuggles up close to a floor-to-ceiling bookcase to make a cosy reading nook. A slimline LED floor lamp provides reading light.
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The living room is split into back-to-back lounge areas. Bookcases line both ends of the room.
A muted blue accent chair is tucked into the embrace of an L-shaped corner bookcase.
A multicoloured tufted sofa gives the living room a burst of bright personality. Abstract line art adds a creative touch above the fireplace.
Next to a full wall of bi-fold doors, an artist’s studio has been fashioned. The easel faces out towards an inspirational view of the landscape. A glass partition wall lightly separates the studio from a formal dining room.
In the bedroom, a round rug lays down a soft island beneath a greige upholstered bed. Abstract artwork complements a bright orange bedside table lamp and a matching bedroom chair.
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A blush pink kid’s chair and pink desk lamp colour the workspace. Fitted wardrobes display an arch motif with a pink fluted trim.
In our second featured interior, a round rug sets down a bold black and white pattern. An eclectic and colourful array of lounge chairs and tables make up a fun furniture arrangement. A decorative wall mirror adds interest to a plain white living room wall.
A concrete ceiling adds an industrial canopy over the whole colourful scene.
An abundance of mature indoor plants burst lush greenery into the decor scheme, sprouting from beautifully decorative pots.
Modern works of art make up a gallery wall in the hallway. White marble baseboards underline the gallery walls with a stripe of luxe.
The kitchen diner is a feast for the eyes. Chairs of all different styles come together to furnish the eclectic dining room.
The plain black dining table is tagged onto the end of a wildly-veined marble kitchen island.
Black base units surround the colourful dining area with an L-shaped installation. A wall of green upper units and a red backsplash bring bright contrast.
A freeform rug pools beneath the eating area. Colourful artwork hangs as an attention-grabbing focal point.
Our final featured home design has a relaxing essence. A deeply cushioned couch appears irresistible under the soft glow of a modern living room floor lamp.
In daylight, the colourful accents in the room spring to life. Disney-themed artwork stands out behind the sofa. A small red side table draws colour into the centre of the room.
The modular sofa has two-tone upholstery, which breaks up its large mass.
A grey living room rug takes a backseat to the brighter aspects of decor in the room.
Indoor plants add their own splash of vibrant colour.
Opposite the sofa, a TV wall is backlit to create an atmospheric glow.
A black floating media unit thinly underlines the wall-mounted TV and sound bar. An indoor plant adds texture to the focal wall.
In the open plan kitchen diner, kitchen bar stools are highlighted with pastel blue framework.
Pale blue-grey pendant lights hang in a uniform trio above the dining island.
The blue bar stools are reflected in a metallic support panel beneath the kitchen island, which doubles their colourful influence.
With the living room lights down low, the kitchen becomes a beacon of mood lighting.
Behind the kitchen bar stools, the main kitchen installation stands in an L-shaped arrangement of smooth white and wood units.
The home entryway has a minimalistic aesthetic. Coats are tucked away in a wall mounted wardrobe. An illuminated shoe storage nook keeps the walkway tidy.
A full-length mirror and an entryway stool are paired to fashion a convenient dressing area for outdoor clothes.
In the bathroom, white marble tiles clad the walls and bathtub with natural pattern. Two bathroom mirrors fetch a fashionable racetrack-shaped motif.
Beige walls separate out the WC area.
Recessed LEDs shed mood lighting down the white marble onto the bathtub.
Matt black bathroom fittings punctuate the white backdrop.
A second bathroom is decorated with a simple square tile backsplash. The understated white wall tiles allow a colourful terrazzo floor treatment to take the spotlight.
A custom-made bathroom mirror fits the vanity space perfectly. A linear vanity unit completes the streamlined look.
Brown grouting cuts around the white tiles in the shower space design. A brown ceiling caps the white bathroom with rich, solid colour.
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Those of us who live in cold weather environments know the challenge of staying cozy without having to pay astronomical bills in the winter. Yes, there are a thousand ways you can renovate your home to help make your heating more efficient, but that doesn’t help you right now. This post is about practical tips and small purchases that can help you stay warm today without a renovation.
If you live in one of those places where the weather is 80 degrees all year you might want to skip this post. Better yet, read it so you can survive when the weather drops to 65 degrees. We kid, warm weather dwellers. Believe me, all of us want to be you right now (and all year long).
Read on for our best tips are keeping cozy this winter season.
1. Wrap up in a heated blanket
Don’t knock it ’til you’ve tried it!
I am always cold so my family purchased me the above heated blanket for Christmas. I use it every day. Modern day heated blankets have shutoff timers and overheat limits so they are totally safe. I use my heated blanket to keep warm while I am snuggled up on the sofa or sitting at my desk. The heated blanket keeps you from knowing really your furnace is turned down.
2. Shut doors in your house to create zone heating
Make sure you keep the doors shut to rooms you do not use during the day or night. This will help your heating source focus on the areas where you are spending time. This is called zone heating. Zoned heating is your friend in the winter because it maximizes the heat where you are.
3. Shut vents in unused rooms
There is no need to heat your guest bedroom or unfinished basement if the rooms are not being used. This will force all the heat into the rooms that you do use.
If you really want to be proactive, shut the vents to your bedroom during the day and open it back up about an hour before you go to bed. At bedtime, shut your living and kitchen area vents.
For extra coverage, magnetic vent covers can work well to cover floor vents. Ceiling and wall vent covers tend to come off but do work better if the vent is closed.
4. Use an oil-filled space heater
Oil-filled heaters are the safer version of space heaters to use in your home. They do take a little while to heat up but they do warm up a space effectively, especially if you shut doors to maximize the space. Even though they are the “safer version,” you still need to be careful. Make sure you spend a little extra money for one with a timer and an overheat shutoff for safety reasons. You do not want to leave them on overnight or while you are away from home. They can be warm to the touch so like any space heater, it may not be good with little kids.
These type of heaters are really great for helping your pipes not freeze under a sink. Open your sink cabinet doors and place it next to the cabinet periodically throughout the day when its below freezing.
5. Purchase a portable electric fireplace
An electric fireplace with high BTUs can really warm up a space. These are more expensive than space heaters, but most are safe to touch for the littles in your home. They are also very safe and efficient to run for long periods of time. I am getting impressed with the stylish options available these days.
If you have a non working fireplace you can tuck one of these into your fireplace like Megan Pflug did in her basement makeover.
6. Switch out window treatments for thermal curtains / add thermal curtain liners
Switch out curtains with thermal curtains or attach thermal curtain liners to your existing curtains. Windows can be the largest source of cold air entering into your home. Thermal curtains can help keep the cold air insulated.
Hanging a curtain over your exterior doors can be stylish and help your house feel warmer in the winter.
8. Open curtains during the day and close them at night
During a sunny winter day, let the sun in to warm your home. When the sun is down, shut them to insulate the cold air.
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9. Hang a curtain at the top of your stairwell
If you have a two-story home use a thermal curtain and tension rod at the top of your stairs. Close the curtain the times of the day when you spend most of your time downstairs. Why? It is simple, hot air rises and the closed curtain can keep the hot air downstairs.
The top of my stairwell is a doorway sized opening so I can use a shower curtain tension rod to hang a thermal curtain. The above stairway curtain “how to” is over at Dandelion Discoveries.
10. After using your oven, keep the door open while it cools down
Maximize the usage of your oven as long as you can. After you use your oven, keep the door open while the oven cools down. Of course, not the best thing to do if you have little kiddos hanging around.
12. Add insulated covers to your outlets and light sockets
Your outlets and light switches can be a source for cold air to get into your home. This is true especially if you live in an old home where the walls are not insulated. If you live in an old home with original plaster walls…this applies to you. This fix requires no rewiring or electrician skills. You just need a screwdriver to take off the face plate.
13. Cover your home with window sill and door draft stoppers
Use rice and fabric remnants to create a cute insulated window sill or door draft stopper
14. Lay down a rug or two
If you have hardwood floors, rugs can help with cold floors. Check your local carpet store for remnants if you are on a budget. If there is no room in the budget for a rug, lay a blanket on the floor while you are hanging out in your living room.
15. Wear a winter hat around the house
Heat exits your body from your head so keep yourself warm by keeping a cute winter hat on your head while you are home.
16. Wear warm slippers
Like your head, heat exits your body from your feet so keep them insulated.
17. Warm your towels with a towel warmer
Fight the cold in the bathroom by warming up your towels while you shower. They also work for bathrobes.
Give your living room a fresh look by rearranging your furniture away from your windows. If the furniture in front of your window only fits one way, move your seating away from the window a least 6 inches and execute tips 6, 8, 13, and 20.
19. Unblock heater vents
Don’t sacrifice your coziness for a piece of furniture over a vent. Rearrange your furniture to unblock the vent. Not possible? Purchase a vent attachment or extender.
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20. Install plastic window insulators
These plastic window insulators can help your windows feel like a more expensive window. If done well, the insulator really isn’t super noticeable. They are easy to install and remove. All you need is scissors and a hair dryer. Most of the instructions tell you to install the plastic over your outer trim. I was able to install the plastic on the inside of the window trim behind my window treatments. These are a great solution for large windows with no window treatments.
Sometimes just thinking warmer thoughts can get you feeling cozier. Cuddle up and get some inspiration for you outdoor spaces this summer and tell yourself you are almost there!
A smooth beige palette is a safe jumping-off point for a decor scheme… Sometimes a little too safe. Without good styling choices, a basic beige colour scheme can appear bland. This collection of three unique home interiors is packed with ideas to help create interesting neutral interiors. Home design number one is a sumptuous, neoclassical space. Delightfully decorative boiserie and crown moulding enrich the beige backdrop. Modern furniture arrangements have a sculptural essence. Tour number two takes place in an apartment with a chic, modern approach and eye-catching accessories. Finally, we’ll round up the selection with a green and red accented scheme and an elegant arch theme.
As we enter the living room of our first home, we’re met with a warm feeling of calm and tranquillity. A soft, modern tufted sofa design is set against a beige backdrop of classical boiserie. A striking black and beige rug design softens the room’s acoustics and the feeling underfoot.
A set of black and beige nesting coffee tables break up the bold pattern on the living room rug. A channel-tufted stool neatly extends the seating plan.
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Wall moulding makes a cohesive link across the open-plan living room dining room combo. One larger panel frames the TV wall in the lounge, whilst a second wide panel defines the dining area.
The rattan media console is matched by a set of rattan-fronted storage units beside the window. The natural texture and tone make wonderful accompaniments to the subtle beige background.
A beige kitchen winds around the dining area. White marble backsplashes add a light, luxe touch.
In the master bedroom, a beige upholstered bed creates a moment of visual rest between a patterned headboard wall and a bold rug.
In this chic, modern apartment, a brightly coloured diptych is hung above an understated pale couch. In crisp contrast to the curves of the sofa, a glass coffee table sets down a sharp silhouette.
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A black and beige rug design complements the coffee table with a squared pattern. A monochrome throw and cushions accent the couch.
In the window area, a platform floor is employed to mark a separate function. A small stool and a coffee table are paired to fashion a reading area. A display shelf is built into an archway, adorned with decorative vases.
Coffee table books and small ornaments create a low-key centrepiece.
A tensioned shelving unit takes the place of a TV wall opposite the sofa.
The wall shelves are decorated with an array of books, vases, and sculptures.
Textured glass adds a decorative panel behind the shelves.
A floating desk wraps around the corner of the room, adding rich wood tone to the scheme.
On the opposite side of the room, an L-shaped kitchen area is illuminated in natural light from a floor-to-ceiling window. Rich wood grain cabinets and a black fridge contrast with the light beige room decor.
A convenient coffee machine adds a bright red accent.
A small laundry room is situated just off the front entry door. A narrow shelving tower creates a visual pause between the tower of laundry machines and a stylish sink area.
The concrete and wood sink unit is accessorised with a rattan stool, accomplishing an attractive textural ensemble.
The bathroom has a fragmented layout with a large shower space design at the back. A privacy wall divides the WC from a chic vanity area by the door.
The bathroom vanity area receives natural sunlight via the textured glass living room wall.
The final home in this collection features a graceful, arched decor theme. A modern arched chandelier hangs from an exquisite ceiling rose. Architectural arches elegantly frame the window area and the front entryway.
Green and red accents pepper this beige interior with moments of vibrancy. A piece of modern art colours the fireplace wall. A living room floor lamp adds a sculptural brass element alongside it.
The black fireplace is complemented by a stylish black side table. They each make stark contrast with the pale beige wall.
A home library slots into a cosy, light-filled nook. An elevated floor gives the space great definition from the rest of the open-plan layout.
A kitchen dining area stands adjacent to the open lounge.
The dining island features a striking green marble volume, which draws the eye.
The main work area is a small U-shaped kitchen layout, which can be shut away behind two sliding glass doors. The wall cabinets feature a subtle arch motif.
Inside the master bedroom, an upholstered bed stands out from the rest of the beige decor scheme with a deep, muted red colourway. Muted green wall art adds a pop of contrast above the curved red headboard.
A window seat is built into the bay window. Fitted wardrobes complete the perimeter.
The second bedroom features a flat beige headboard panel upon a concrete foundation. A graceful pendant light descends in front. See more ideas for bedroom pendant lights.
Backlit glass wardrobes emit an atmospheric glow.
Mesmerising monochrome floor tiles shake up a beige bathroom scheme. A freeform bathroom mirror loosens up the modern vanity area.
The final beige bedroom features fresh green accents.
Green accented wardrobes complement a green bed set and a unique desk chair.
If you’re like me, you spend a fair amount of time in your room, whether you’re sleeping or simply relaxing in your own space. While it can be easy to ignore a cluttered bedroom, creating one that reflects you and your aesthetics can be an instant mood booster. But what are some of the most popular room trends heading into the new year?
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The experts at Mattress Next Day have predicted the top four bedroom trends for 2023, analyzing the most popular growing Pinterest trends and TikTok hashtags, as well as consulting various interior designers. If you’re looking to give your space a refresh this year, read on to learn more about the most popular bedroom trends.
Get the look: Books, guitars, moody colors, vintage furniture
Inspired by autumnal and wintry New York City apartments, the Downtown Girl trend is all about creating modern and functional spaces, while incorporating utilitarian materials like concrete and wood.
Get the look: Blacks, blues, and purples, gaming chairs, strip lighting, smart bulbs
The cyberpunk trend encourages edgy and futuristic home accents while incorporating functional and cozy touches. Don’t be surprised to find cyberpunk rooms filled with gaming materials and cool tech accessories.
Trend growth: ‘Neutral bedroom decor’ searches are up 100%, while ‘minimalist bedroom’ searches are up 50% and ‘Earthy bedroom’ searches are up 10%
Get the look: Organic fabrics, soft colors, wood accents
Cool nature bedrooms utilize earthy, soothing colors and natural materials (such as wool blankets and bamboo cotton sheets) to feel attuned to the natural world, and create a relaxing environment for optimal sleep habits.
Trend growth: ‘Romantic dark bedroom ideas’ searches are up 100%, while ‘moody bedrooms’ searches are up 90%
Get the look: Dark colors, soft lighting, floral accents
Don’t be afraid to add dark and dramatic hues to your bedroom! The dark romance bedroom trend evokes mystery and warm sensuality, whether you’re escaping from reality for the evening or luxuriating in the company of a loved one.
When I think of “home,” I always start with a visual picture: the layout, the colors, and all the “stuff” that makes it so unique. But, of course, my real concept of home doesn’t have anything to do with the physical structure or the things that sit inside it. Home is a sense of peace and rest I experience by myself and with my family. And it’s the place where I nurture relationships, and build community. And if I’m doing things right, it’s the place that helps me stay sane. So this year, I’m giving my home a new commitment, and all my 2017 commitments are actually New Year’s resolutions for the home.
1. Deal with procrastination: Procrastination can really take the joy out most things in life. But in our homes, it can create an unthankful mindset for where we live. We all have projects we put off for days, weeks and sometimes even years. And the effect of that can be feeling behind, but also a lack of gratitude.
When we first moved into our home, we just hauled all our stuff from one country to the other, dumped it into the basement bedrooms that were out of sight, closed the doors and never looked back. Two years later, I still feel anxious when I see all the unpacked boxes and piles everywhere. No more procrastinating! We really want to focus on working on those specific spaces that bring us extra stress that we just don’t need in our life.
If you are in the same boat, you know what we mean. So, come up with a game plan! Working on one room at a time, we are slowly going to clean and organize the basement bedrooms. An easy way to motivate yourself to breath new life into unused spaces is giving them a little facelift! We have plans to give three different rooms their own complete makeover this year: a new home office, an organized laundry room and a spare bedroom/playroom for the kids. We know that hitting these problem areas in the home head-on will definitely make us feel a whole lot less stressed in the long run and give us a little more gratitude for where we live.
2. Narrow down to the necessities: When you live surrounded by a lot of clutter, it’s easy to overlook the details that make your house a home. It’s high time we take a long look around to see what items we have that are necessary and items that have no meaning whatsoever. I really do want to live out the whole “less is more” motto and scale back…big time.
I do love to thrift and hunt for unique treasures. Though we have collected a lot of really “cool” stuff over the years, it all can feel a little overwhelming. It’s time to really ditch the extra baggage around the home and do a little purging. One easy way to do this is figuring out if the object or thing has special meaning or memory. If it doesn’t and you just have it because it simply looks pretty or was on sale, give it away! Having less stuff will easily put your mind at ease.
3. Out with the old, in with the new: Christmas usually means a plethora of new toys and clothes for everyone. Before taking all the new stuff out of the packages and ripping the tags off of new clothes, go around the house with a few boxes to collect old toys and clothes that haven’t been touched in months. It’s like the old switch-a-roo! And to help keep a little order and sanity of course.
4. Invest in people, not things: We try our best, but we are all guilty of getting sucked into this world of consumerism. All the newest decor trends, fashion trends and endless stuff to be had….just walk around your favorite local shops and boutiques and you know the feeling exactly. It’s enough to make you go crazy. This year, I really want to invest in relationships rather than things. It’s about being intentional with our time (and money) and investing it on loved ones and experiences, not goods.
5. A cleaning routine: Am I the only one that finds this one totally daunting? In a fast paced world, there seems to be very little time or energy left to care for the home. Which is why we probably avoid having some sort of cleaning routine or schedule, because it’s just one more thing we have to do! For me, it’s really about an attitude change. I’m a stay-at-home-mom and I sometimes resent that looking after the home is essentially my “job.” But honestly, we are so blessed to have this beautiful home and I should show a little more gratitude by taking better care of it! So you see, it’s about doing a littler inner cleaning of the heart too, if you know what I mean.
How about you? What commitments are you making for your home this year? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.
