It’s no secret that I’m a massive fan of dark, inky hues for creating spaces which envelope and cocoon. Dark, rich walls evoke a real sense of drama, which I love. But, whilst dark greys and navy have been recent go-to dark tones, here I want to explore some other options.
Source: The Design Chaser
So, in this blog post I’m looking at chocolate brown. Brown is not a colour often embraced in interiors and it can be met with a love/hate response. Yet, I’m keen to explore what this often overlooked, rich colour has to offer. Well suited for an Autumnal post, the earthier tones of deep brown can give a really warm and comforting feel.
Perfect for creating a modern elegance, dark browns work well with other deep, earthy colours such as greens and reds. Layering these rich tones gives a really sophisticated feel. Add in a pop of vibrant blue and you’ve got something really rather decadent.
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Or keep things simple and dark for a smart, contemporary look. All you need is a little colour pop to finish off the look. As with all dark hues; creating depth in the backdrop really lets a touch of colour sing!
Source: www.inspirationsdeco.blogspot.co.uk
It’s a really effective colour for creating an eclectic look too. Mix up some vintage-style wooden frames for a quirky look or, if you prefer a sharper look use simple black frames and mix in some colourful, vibrant artwork.
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For a more laid back look, soften it slightly and mix in some simple linens. The warmth of the brown walls here creates a relaxing, sensuous vibe. I really rather like it.
Source: www.thedesignchaser.com
Whilst it might not be a look as easy to pull-off as a moody dark grey or a sultry navy, the earthy, rich qualities of dark brown are really quite endearing. If you want to give it a go, Abigail Ahern’s Bedford Brown is a really good starting point. It’s dark, rich and versatile, creating a really cosy space. Which all sounds perfect for the start of Autumn.
I wrote a blog post a while ago for Nrth Lass which started “Working from home is such a joy”. I wonder how many people will say the same right now?! I’ve run my business from home for the past 4 years and I love working from home. Admittedly though, the current working-from-home-during-lockdown situation has its challenges, and isn’t quite what I had in mind when I wrote my original post.
But the sentiment of making sure you don’t neglect your home office space is probably even more relevant today than it was then. Obviously we’re all having to make-do at the moment. Especially with schools closed, more people are working in each house than was ever envisaged, and it’s impossible to think that every working space will be perfect. I’m sure dining tables around the country are groaning at the constant multi-functioning demanded of them (as well as under the weight of all the school books, laptops, crafts and coffee cups piled onto them!).
But with our family, working and social lives all merged under one roof, it’s probably more important than ever that we carve out a space for the working part of our life right now. So, how can you make your working space work harder for you whilst you’re slogging it out at home?
1/ ALLOCATE A SPACE
This sounds obvious, and it’s not always easy when there are numerous demands for office space, but try and have a space assigned for working. A space that is yours. This is probably even more important if you aren’t able to dedicate a separate room to it. So whether its a little nook, a space on the landing or a spare table set up somewhere, make sure you claim it for your own. It ensures you have a proper space to focus in, and is at least an attempt to prevent the work/home blur!
2/ INVEST IF YOU CAN
I like to be optimistic, but the reality is that many of us will be working from home, in some capacity, for some time to come. It’s likely that this pandemic will change working patterns forever, and that many people will work from home even for part of the week going forwards. So, if you can, it might be worth thinking about investing in the important pieces. A comfy office chair is essential. Your back will thank you for it. But don’t feel that you have to compromise on style and restrict yourself to conventional office furniture. There’s some great options around and as long as it offers the comfort and support you need to sit there for long periods, be as creative as you like.
3/ ITS ALL ABOUT STORAGE
No-one works well surrounded by stuff. If your working space was an impromptu set-up doing lockdown its likely storage wasn’t planned as part of the design! Now’s the time to take a look, be realistic about what you need, and get those papers filed into a drawer. Good storage doesn’t need to be expensive, or boring. Be creative; add some wooden shelving, buy some colourful drawers. You’re not in the corporate office now, so you can make it as personal and interesting as you like!
4/ LIGHT & BRIGHT
Good ambient and task lighting is essential for work spaces, and this can be tricky if you’re working in a temporary set-up, or can’t make electrical changes right now. But a good plug-in desk light will go a long way to improving the situation. If you have very limited desk space, think about a floor standing lamp next to it. Just make sure you think about the height and direction of the light.
5/ ADD TEXTURE; MAKE IT COSY
It’s no secret that I love sheepskins but there’s no easier way to add softness, warmth and texture to a space. And even if you’re using a spare dining chair, add a throw and it’ll make it that little bit more inviting. I can’t promise you’ll never want to leave your desk, but it’ll help make it a little more cosy!
6/ MAKE IT YOURS; STYLE IT UP
No one does their best work in a sterile space (well, unless you’re a surgeon I guess). Make it personal; style it up. Add a photo gallery wall or frame a couple of those pictures your little one brought back from school (remember those days?!). Or, if lockdown means you’ve seen far too much of your immediate family, perhaps add some photos of your former office buddies!! Buy that cool stationary and add some plants. It’ll brighten up your office, and your day. And if it helps to justify it, remember it’s for work!
The word on everyone’s lips this Autumn (or, at least, those who can pronounce it) is Hygge (it’s {hue-gah} if you’re interested). It’s a Danish concept about enjoying the everyday; surrounding yourself with things and people you love.
Fundamentally, it’s about creating a safe haven; shutting out the big, dark world outside and making a happy, cosy space inside. With Winter now truly in sight, what better time to bring a little more Hygge spirit into our own homes. To wrap ourselves up with those we love and make our homes happy.
Nothing does cosy more than soft, flickering candlelight. Dot tea lights in pretty glasses and use church pillar candles in fireplaces or hurricane jars. Easy, and inexpensive.
Indulge the senses with scented candles. I love True Grace Fig for a sensuous and velvety scent. Or try Skandinavisk’s Hygee candle, inspired by the very concept. With notes of black tea and baked strawberry cake it even sounds delicious.
Hygge is about creating a welcoming atmosphere. As much as you can, declutter your porch and hallway to create a calming vibe the moment you walk through the door. Try Ikea for cost effective storage, add some subtle lighting and a few personal touches to make your entrance way an inviting space for you and your guests.
3. ADD TEXTURE
Keep it natural. Warm and tactile; there’s a good reason why Scandinavian design so often incorporates natural materials. Think chunky woollen throws, and snug knitted cushions. Drape a sheepskin over a chair to create a cosy fireside retreat. You’ll never want to go outside again.
4. SIMPLIFY YOUR DINING AREA
Hygge isn’t about elaborate or extravagant dining spaces. It’s about the simple, informal pleasure of sharing food with loved ones. Go back to basics and enjoy a laid-back style. Simple linen napkins and tableware like this stoneware range by Rose & Grey. Just add comfort food and candles and your guests won’t want to leave.
And for the children, take a look at the Finland Arabia Moon Tableware range, available at John Lewis. It’s too cute not to.
5. BE YOURSELF
Hygge is about being yourself, so make sure your home reflects who you are. It isn’t about following trends or fashions. It’s about creating a space that feels like home. Make it personal. Add photos, keepsakes; anything that makes you smile.
How will you get your home ready for some Hygge togetherness this Winter?
Source: www.inspirationsdeco.blogspot.co.uk
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Source: www.thedesignchaser.com
