This Maximalist Living Room Makeover Is “Lava Lamp Chic”
The mural was improvised.
READ MORE…
I just discovered this stylish Next sofa bed *and* it’s under £500 – no wonder savvy shoppers are snapping it up
Judging by the storm currently raging outside my office window, summer is officially over and autumn has begun. And, as Ideal Home’s Sleep Editor, I know that this change in seasons means that the savvy amongst us are already prepping and planning for the festive hosting season ahead.
In particular, that means considering how our homes are going to sleep the extra friends and family that may visit over the Christmas period. And this year, it seems that Next shoppers are leading the way in their organisational efforts. Why? Because Next customers are busy snapping up the brand’s Palma sofa bed. And at just £475 for this stylish seating that doubles as a sleeping space for two, it’s easy to see why.
Next
Palma Double Sofa Bed
The Palma sofa bed comes in two designs. There’s the two-seater Palma sofa bed that starts at £475 and offers a double-bed-sized sleeping area, or the single-seater Palma chair bed that costs £350 and provides a sleeping space for one.
Both are similar in design to two other hosting solutions that I regularly recommend in Ideal Home’s guide to the best sofa beds and best chair beds, namely the Habitat Roma Sofa Bed and MADE’s Haru Sofa Bed.
All feature a ‘click-clack’ style of design where the seat and backrest unfold and lay flat to become the sleeping area, and come in a good range of upholstery options, including on-trend boucle and luxurious-looking velvets.
(Image credit: Next)
The Palma sofa bed’s main point of difference is its curved backrest, which, in my opinion, gives it some extra style points compared to its competition.
The two-seater Palma sofa bed also offers a good-sized sleeping area. Although Habitat’s Roma sofa bed is the more affordable option, with prices for the Habitat Roma Double Sofa Bed starting at £300 compared to the Palma sofa bed’s £475 price tag, the Roma maxes out at a 121cm width.
That’s smaller than your average double bed, which measures 135cm in width. In comparison, the Next Palma sofa bed is bang on 136cm wide. If you’re hosting a couple, that’s 15cm extra wiggle room they’ll definitely appreciate.
Alternatively, the MADE Haru Large Sofa Bed does offer even more space with a 143cm width, but it also costs more, coming in at £550 for the larger size.
(Image credit: Next)
To my mind, that makes the Palma sofa bed great value for the money, as well as being a space-saving and stylish addition to the home. And it seems I’m not alone in thinking so.
‘The sofa is comfortable, conveniently space-saving, easy to open out into a bed and to fold back up again,’ shares one 5-star reviewer of the Palma on the Next website. ‘Fabulous,’ says another. ‘I want another one when funds allow.’
Plus, according to Next shoppers, the Palma is the ideal solution for last-minute hosting.
‘I am really pleased with this sofa bed,’ says one reviewer. ‘It looks like a stylish sofa and folds out to a normal side double bed. Really pleased we invested in this. Will suit my family when they stay at Christmas.’
(Image credit: Next)
‘Researched in a hurry due to sudden additional guests arriving over Xmas,’ says another reviewer who bought the sofa bed last year. ‘I am so glad that I was persuaded by reading all the good reviews. No regrets at all. Converting it from a sofa to a bed is very straightforward and quick. It looks great too!’
‘Brilliant design,’ says a third. ‘I was looking for a spare single fold-out bed which could serve as an attractive seat, on short notice of a family visit, and this is perfect. It’s also very well made and comfortable as a seat. Ordered mid-week and delivered on the following Monday. Family arriving this afternoon!’
In fact, the only negatives I can see are related to the sofa bed’s comfort in bed form. A few reviewers note that the sofa bed is quite firm for sleeping on, which is similar to how I found the Habitat Roma and MADE Haru when I tested them in store. However, thankfully, that’s nothing that the addition of a good mattress topper can’t solve.
(Image credit: Next)
‘You will need a good mattress topper, but other than that, it fits the bill perfectly,’ shares one reviewer. ‘The sofa is comfy to sit on, but when converted to a bed, it is a little firm for my liking,’ says another. ‘As a result, I purchased a mattress topper.’
That does mean you’ll need to factor the cost of a mattress topper into your purchase, but I’ve rounded up three of the best value mattress toppers I’ve tested below. And even with the addition of some extra cushioning, I still think the Palma sofa bed’s under £500 price tag makes it a great value buy.
Preferred Partner
REM-Fit
Halo Memory Foam Topper
A memory foam mattress topper is great for adding cushioning to a sofa bed that’s too firm. That’s because memory foam is responsive, which means it will gently mould around hips and shoulders to cushion the joints. Even better, REM-Fit currently has a sale on, which means you can snap this topper up for half price.
Silentnight
Silentnight Airmax Mattress Topper
This topper is more basic, and its hollowfibre padding doesn’t offer quite as much cushioning as my other recommendations. But it will still soften a firm sleep surface, and it’s one of the most affordable toppers on the market.
Woolroom
Woolroom Deluxe Wool Mattress Topper
If you can afford to push the boat out, this wool-filled topper offers both cushioning *and* excellent temperature regulation. That means it can keep your guests cosy and comfortable without the overheating that synthetic bedding can cause.
TOPICS
This Cozy, Under-$100 Living Room Refresh Only Took One Afternoon
“I’ve just been craving something new in the living room,” the DIYer says.
READ MORE…
Frugal and Fabulous: 30+ Fall Decor Ideas on a Budget
It’s fall, and you love to decorate, but you don’t want to break the bank. No worries – fall decor doesn’t have to be expensive. You can have a Pinterest-worthy, fall fabulous home with a few simple pieces that give you a lot of bang for your buck. Whether you’re a DIY lover, a thrift store treasure hunter, or just someone who wants to sprinkle a little autumn magic around the house, this list is packed with chic and budget-friendly ideas.
Let’s fall into fabulous! Grab your favorite pumpkin-spiced drink and your coziest fall blanket as you enjoy this list of stylish and totally doable fall decor ideas.
1. Pinecones in Bowls or Vases
Pinecones are nature’s free decor (you can literally find them outside, depending on where you live). Toss them in a pretty bowl or glass vase, and boom — instant fall decor. Bonus idea: Lightly dust them with cinnamon essential oil for a subtle seasonal scent.
2. Candle Clusters
Group candles of varying heights on a tray. Consider color: Mix in brass or gold holders for a warm glow and orange or deep red candles to amplify the fall feeling. Choose traditional seasonal scents like apple cider, pumpkin spice, or vanilla chai.
3. Cozy Textures Everywhere
Fall is all about being warm and cozy with cooler weather making its way through the season. Layer your space with chunky knit blankets, faux fur throws, and velvety pillows.
4. Acorn Accents
Fill small jars or bowls with acorns (real or faux). They’re small, easy to find, earthy, and perfect for adorning bookshelves, mantles, and coffee tables.
5. Statement Vases with Faux Flowers
Swap out summer blooms for faux or dried fall florals. Features floral colors in burnt orange, mustard yellow, and deep burgundy. Pampas grass and eucalyptus are also great neutral options.
6. DIY Fall Wreath
Grab some floral wire or a wreath frame and add twigs, feathers, faux leaves, and even cinnamon sticks to create a wreath that’s beautiful and uniquely yours. Hang it on your front door or above your mantel.
7. Rustic Centerpiece with Gourds
Create a fabulous fall dining table centerpiece with a mix of mini pumpkins, gourds, and candles. Add a burlap or velvet runner underneath for extra charm.
8. Apple-Inspired Decor
Fill a wooden crate or basket with red and green apples, thoughtfully place faux apples around your home, and use apple-scented essential oils. It’s simple and fresh.
9. Crafty with Cinnamon Sticks
The smell of cinnamon invites warmth and fall feels. Add a little throughout your home by tying cinnamon sticks together with twine and tuck them into your centerpiece or place settings. They smell amazing and look rustic-chic.
10. Pumpkin Spice Everything
Pumpkin spice screams fall. From drinks to scents, it’s everywhere. If you’re a fan, you can affordably add them to your home with candles, hand soaps, oils, and more.
11. Front Door Glow-Up
Add a fall-themed doormat, a wreath, and a few stacked pumpkins to make your entryway feel warm and welcoming.
12. Thrift Store Treasures
Add some character to your decor with vintage brass candlesticks, amber bottles, or old books with warm-toned covers. These cost next to nothing and instantly give your home decor a rustic feel.
13. Layered Textures
Texture doesn’t just stop at bedding, pillows, and cozy blankets. Mix burlap, wood, and metal pieces to create some country charm and make the space feel warm and inviting.
14. Neutral Fall Palette
If your home decor leans more neutral, skip the bright oranges and go for creamy whites, soft browns, and muted greens. It’s on theme and adds a chic touch.
15. Dollar Store DIYs
The local dollar store is a gold mine for DIY fall decor. Start by grabbing faux leaves, mini pumpkins, and glass jars, and get creative. Remember to have a plan before you go in, like choosing colors that match your fall decor theme. You’d be surprised how luxe everything can look with a little creativity.
16. Blanket Ladder Display
Drape your coziest throws over a wooden ladder for a functional and stylish display. Vary it up in texture and color based on your overall decor.
17. Found from Nature
Nature can be our biggest inspiration and gift us free decor. Take walk and gather twigs, leaves, and pine branches. Arrange them in a vase or use them in a DIY garland.
18. Gourd Garland
Gather together mini gourds or faux pumpkins to create a festive garland to hang across your mantel or staircase.
19. Scented Simmer Pot
Fill your home with autumn scents by simmering a pot of apple slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and orange peels on the stove. You can do this once a week for a natural, cozy scent that pairs perfectly with your fall decor.
20. Decorative Tray Styling
Use a tray to feature candles, mini pumpkins, and a small vase of fall florals on your coffee table or kitchen island.
21. Budget-Friendly Throw Pillows
Here’s an easy and quick fall decor solution: swap out your pillow covers. With the right measurements, your pillow covers can easily become the perfect fall-inspired accent piece. Look for plaid, velvet, or faux leather and various colors like brown, orange, green, and red.
22. Seasonal Dishes
Display fall-themed mugs or plates on open shelves or in a hutch. It’s a subtle way to bring in the season without investing in too much decor.
23. Mantel Magic
A mantel is the perfect functional space to feature layers of garlands, candles, and seasonal items like mini pumpkins or vintage books. Turn your mantel into a cozy focal point, then sprinkle similar accents throughout your home to create a warm, inviting vibe.
24. Baskets Full of Fall
Fill woven baskets with various textured blankets, florals, and surround them with your favorite guards or pumpkins for a luxurious, lived-in look.
25. Branches and Twigs in Decor
Branches and twigs signify the changing seasons. Place them in a tall vase or use them as part of a centerpiece. Mix in faux sunflowers and eucalyptus in a vintage pitcher or amber bottle for a farmhouse feel.
27. Copper Accents
Copper mugs, trays, or candle holders add warmth and a touch of glam to your fall setup.
28. Feather Fun
Tuck a few feathers into your faux flower arrangements for texture and a touch of whimsy or simply add a few standalone feathers to your favorite vase.
29. Amber Glass
Use amber glass-shaped decor or bottles (which are great as vases or candle holders). They’re moody, chic, and perfect for fall.
30. Essential Oil Diffuser Blends
Fill your home with the scents of fall by adding oils like clove, orange, cinnamon, and cedarwood to your essential oil diffuser.
31. Lantern Love
Place lanterns around your home, surrounded by candles, mini pumpkins, or fairy lights, for a magical glow.
32. Pears as Decor
Keep it super simple by adding faux or real pears to bowls or centerpieces for a fresh, unexpected twist.
If you love fall, these ideas will help you add a few fabulous touches to the warm and cozy season. All you need are a few key pieces to refresh your space with cozy textures, warm colors, and charming details. And don’t worry about breaking the bank, there are so many budget-friendly ways to make your home feel like a luxurious autumn retreat.
So light a pumpkin spice candle, turn on your favorite fall jams, and start decorating!
Other fall favorites you’ll love:
‘You’d never know it was a sofa bed’ – Loaf’s new solution for hosting overnight guests is brilliantly disguised
Loaf has launched a new range of sofa beds, and if you’re currently in the market for a living room sofa that can also transform into a bed for guests, you will definitely want this swoon-worthy seating on your radar.
Over the past four years, as Ideal Home’s Sleep Editor I’ve tested numerous sleeper sofas to put together my round-up of the best sofa beds on the market, and in that time, I’ve sat on so many sofa beds that *look* stylish and comfortable, only to find that they’re so uncomfortable to sit and lie on, they’re just a complete waste of money.
Loaf is a completely different experience. The brand is known for its super plump and well-cushioned sofas that are designed with comfortable lounging in mind. And when I went into my nearest Loaf store to test them, I found the brand’s sofa beds to be the same.
What’s more, unless you’re told, I don’t think anyone would ever guess these stylish sofas hide a pull-out mattress inside. So if you want a sofa bed in disguise, this is it.
Loaf Slow Riser Sofa Bed
(Image credit: Loaf)
In recent years, the brand’s sofa bed range seemed to have seriously dwindled. Every time I checked, I found various lines appeared to have sold out and didn’t seem to be getting restocked. Sad news indeed. But, as it turns out, that’s because Loaf was beavering away behind the scenes, creating three brand new sofa bed designs, all of which feature the furniture retailer’s quirky naming conventions.
There’s the Queenie (for sitting pretty on, presumably), the Brioche (with plump cushions that do look a little like freshly risen bread), and the Slow Riser (no explanation required there).
Loaf Queenie Sofa Bed
(Image credit: Loaf)
The Queenie Sofa Bed is the most affordable sofa bed in the new range and, perhaps, the most traditional looking, with scroll arms and classic bun feet. It starts from £1995, and comes in two size options, a 178cm and a 238cm width, which offer a double or king-sized pull-out mattress respectively.
The Slow Riser Sofa Bed is a larger and more modern option. Again, there are two size options, a 193cm and a 233cm width, with prices starting from £2295.
The Brioche Flat Packed Sofa Bed is my favourite and (of course) it’s also the most expensive of the bunch. However, it’s also the most versatile, because – as its name will give away – this sofa bed is a flat-packed design.
The dimensions of Loaf’s seating tend to be (very) generous – and with a 208cm or 238cm width, the Brioche sofa bed is no exception – so this is a real bonus if you have awkward delivery access. Loaf’s delivery team will then assemble the sofa bed in your room of your choice.
The Brioche sofa bed also comes with a great range of matching furniture. There’s a standard sofa, an armchair, and a footstool, which means you can turn the Brioche sofa bed into a chaise if you like to put your feet up and really get comfy.
Loaf Brioche Flat Packed Sofa Bed pulled out
(Image credit: Loaf)
All three designs feature 13cm deep pocket-sprung mattresses tucked away inside the frame, and based on the similar designs I tested in store, they’re some of the closest pull-out mattresses I’ve found to the ‘real thing’.
That 13cm depth is far deeper than most pull-out sofa beds offer, and that makes a real difference in terms of sleep comfort.
The other massive bonus that comes with buying a Loaf sofa bed is the incredible fabric choice that’s on offer. More affordable sofa beds usually offer five or six colourways, but buy any of these Loaf options and you have 150 colourways to choose from.
The fabric samples ‘bar’ in a Loaf store is like a sweet shop with a whole host of sumptious shades and textures available to peruse. My favourites are always the velvets which add a sculptural quality to Loaf furniture’s signature curves, but there are plenty more upholstery options to choose from.
(Image credit: Future / Amy Lockwood)
Personally, I’m super excited to see Loaf back in the sofa bed game. I think this collection offers a genuine solution for those of us seeking a sofa bed that looks and feels nice enough to use as our primary sofa in the living room.
However, we can’t ignore the fact that Loaf furniture isn’t cheap. I do think you get what you pay for – when I tested the range in store, I definitely felt Loaf sofas and sofa beds were worth their price tag. But if the budget won’t stretch, it won’t stretch.
So if you have your heart set on a Loaf sofa bed but the maths isn’t mathing, these are the three budget-friendly alternatives I’d suggest instead. They can’t quite compete in terms of comfort or quality, but they will help you to host guests without breaking the bank.
Habitat
Roma Small Double Velvet Chairbed
If you’re only looking to sleep one guest at a time – or you need a sofa bed that’s a lot more compact than Loafs generous options – then Habitat’s Roma sofa bed could fit the bill. And compared to Loaf’s prices it’s *very* affordable. In my opinion it’s too firm to use as your main seating, but it’s perfect as an accent chair, especially in this statement teal velvet.
Habitat
Julien Fabric 4 Seater Sofa Bed – Taupe
Habitat’s newly launched Julien Fabric 4 Seater Sofa Bed is one of the most affordable options I’ve come across if you’re looking for a sofa bed that can double as your main living room sofa. It only comes in two colourways and its velvet isn’t quite as luxurious as Loaf’s, but it’s a budget-friendly buy.
Innovation Living
Cubed 140 Sofa Bed
If you’re planning on putting a sofa bed into a home office or spare bedroom rather than it taking centre stage in the living room, then it may not matter to you that it looks like a ‘classic’ sofa. If so, you can save money by opting for a more streamlined design. This armless sofa bed is a flat-packed and compact option that still has enough sleeping space for two.
TOPICS