If you’re lacking inspiration, take a cue from our customers. They’ve transformed their spaces into inviting, productive hubs with home office desks, clever storage, and styling touches that feel personal yet practical. Here’s how they’ve approached it.

Contemporary simplicity

Newton desk | @home_atno34

Sometimes the best choice is a small desk that lets the rest of the room breathe. The Newton desk’s modern farmhouse design stands out against warm neutral walls, pared-back accessories, and a single leafy houseplant. It proves you don’t need much to create a workspace you love, just the right centrepiece.

Smart storage

Parquet desk | @elliesdecorandmore

Your office isn’t just for your laptop; it’s also the home for paperwork, stationery, and all those bits and pieces you reach for daily. A desk with drawers is beneficial, and Ellie’s space shows why. Her oak desk pairs warm honey tones with a soft sage green wall, creating a calming, organised environment that’s as beautiful as it is practical.

Pair with the perfect chair

Original Rustic desk | Harper chair | @indigo_casa

Even the most stunning office desk needs a comfortable partner. @indigo_casa matches our country cottage-inspired Original Rustic desk with the leather-look Harper dining chair for stylish support. The result? A multitasking setup that blends seamlessly with the rest of the home’s aesthetic, proving that comfort and style don’t have to compete.

Let the light in

Hove computer desk | Hove tall bookcase | @viewof22

Light is essential for a focused, energised workday. Natural daylight not only keeps you alert but also prevents eye strain. @viewof22’s airy workspace shows just how it’s done with her home office desk bathed in sunshine by day and softly lit by a rose gold-accented lamp by night. The coordinated metallic touches, from pendant light to stationery holder, pull the whole look together for a space that feels both chic and functional.

Match with your accessories

St. Ives computer desk | @home_at_thornberry_gardens

Styling your desk and work from home space is all about harmony. Keep your office cohesive with accessories that match your walls, floors and furnishings. Rose’s grey computer desk with natural oak top coordinates perfectly with her homewares for a polished, cohesive look that’s easy on the eyes and the mind.

Parquet desk | @newhomeadventures_no23

Here, the Parquet desk takes on a mid-century aesthetic, styled with rattan and wicker accessories for a light, Scandi-inspired feel. It’s the perfect reminder that your desk can adapt to any interior style with the right finishing touches.

Opt for pastel tones

Hove console table | @viewof22

We love the chance to have another sneak peek at the rest of @viewof22’s office, where pastels aren’t just for bedrooms; they can inspire creativity in your workspace, too. Ruth’s geometric rose gold feature wall behind our Hove console table is proof that your office can be a place of beauty as well as productivity. It’s a reminder that a little colour and pattern can go a long way in lifting your mood.

Ready to bring your home office vision to life? Explore our full range of home office furniture to keep your space neat and clutter-free. Share your space with us on TikTok or Instagram using #OakFurnitureland #GrowYourHome, you might just inspire the next big office makeover.

The post As styled by you: home office inspiration appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.

But what really lies behind this guarantee? To find out, we spoke with Elena Mellowes, Head of Buying, who shares insights on the carefully chosen woods such as oak, acacia, ash, and mango, and the time-honoured techniques that give Oak Furnitureland pieces their unrivalled strength and character.

What is Oak Furnitureland’s Lifetime Furniture Guarantee?

Belgrave console table

We want our furniture to grow with you, to become part of your home’s story, which is why we’re now offering a Lifetime Furniture Guarantee on all our frames, joints, hinges and handles. With materials like oak, acacia, ash, and mango wood, combined with the skill of traditional joinery and modern design precision, each piece is built not just for today but for decades to come.

We work with solid hardwoods that are naturally strong and long-lasting. Oak, for example, offers exceptional density and timeless beauty. Acacia is another favourite, it’s incredibly stable and has a beautiful natural grain pattern. Ash brings a perfect combination of strength and flexibility, making it ideal for structural elements, while mango wood is both durable and uniquely characterful due to its rich, warm tones.

When combined with our meticulous joinery and finishing, every frame, joint, hinge, and handle on our furniture is now covered for life, because we believe your furniture should stand the test of time.

What makes oak stand out in furniture design?

Durham open shelving unit

Oak is one of the hardest and most durable woods available. It has a naturally high resistance to dents and scratches, which is why it has been used in furniture for centuries. Its grain pattern is distinctive yet versatile, which means it suits both classic and modern designs. Oak ages beautifully, developing a rich patina over time without losing its structural integrity. That’s why our oak furniture is such a cornerstone of the collection, it’s built to look and feel better with age.

What role does acacia play in our collections?

Detroit tallboy

Acacia is a wonderful material for creating statement pieces. It’s a dense, strong hardwood, but what makes it unique is its stunning grain and varied colour tones, ranging from light browns to deeper, golden hues. Its smooth, even surface also makes it ideal for painted finishes, which is why we often use acacia for our painted furniture ranges.

How does ash wood complement our designs?

Brompton single bed

Ash is incredibly resilient yet lighter in tone, making it perfect for more contemporary furniture styles. It’s strong enough for frames and structural parts but also flexible enough to work with curved designs or sleek silhouettes. Its straight grain and pale colouring also take stains beautifully, allowing us to create a variety of finishes while maintaining a strong, stable core.

Mango wood is often described as an ‘eco-luxury’ material. So, why do we use it?

Noah coffee table

Mango wood is often sourced as a by-product of the fruit industry, which makes it a highly efficient material choice. But beyond its eco-credentials, it’s a dream to work with. It’s dense, durable, and has a unique, textured grain that adds personality to every piece. It’s particularly well-suited for furniture with a handcrafted aesthetic, as the grain and colour variations give it a warm, inviting feel.

What makes our sofa frames so strong that we guarantee them for life?

Eastley chaise sofa bed | Noah display cabinet

Your sofa shouldn’t just look great, it should feel solid and dependable for years to come. That’s why we build our sofa frames using a mix of strong timbers and engineered wood panels, chosen for their durability and long-lasting support. Each frame is carefully put together, with joints that are securely fastened to keep everything solid and quiet over time. This thoughtful craftsmanship means your sofa will stay strong, comfortable, and reliable for years to come.

How do craftsmanship and construction elevate these materials even further?

Otto dining table | Scroll back chairs

We take each material’s natural strengths and build on them. For example, we predominantly use dovetail joints for our oak and acacia frames. This ancient technique ensures joints won’t loosen over time. Ash and mango pieces are reinforced at key stress points, and every surface is well-finished to enhance both appearance and protection. Our furniture is designed to handle daily life, whether it’s supporting, resisting, or simply retaining its beauty for years to come.

Ready to find your forever furniture? Explore our full range of furniture, all covered by the Lifetime Furniture Guarantee and invest in pieces that will grow with your home.

The post Inside our Lifetime Furniture Guarantee appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.

Read on to discover ways that neutral decor ideas are anything but boring!

Glamorous neutrals

Otto sideboard | Otto dining table set

When creating more glamorous spaces, neutrals add a grounding effect that plays off against bolder design choices. In this luxe scheme, the mixed material surfaces bring a real wow factor to the room, while our almond-coloured painted Otto range introduces a touch of homely warmth.

Modern country style

Brompton small sideboard | @ourhomeinsuffolk

You don’t need to live in a cottage to embrace country-inspired interiors, simply choose furniture that references the aesthetics of farmhouse decor while adding a more contemporary spin. Our Brompton range has Shaker-style features that pair beautifully with cosy neutral sofas, textured throws and subtly patterned cushions.

Rustic decor

Henley bedside table | @thestanleydiary

Neutral bedroom furniture is the perfect foundation for creating a rustic-style space. Layer with different textures and muted-coloured cushions for an effortlessly relaxed and inviting scheme. Get creative with natural materials and consider using baskets to hide plant pots and add interest to your side table.

Mid-century minimalism

Oliver dining table set | @homebyvaida

For a truly inspiring dining room, contrast your walls and dining set. A retro-inspired dining table and chairs, like our Oliver collection, looks at home in this scheme that’s punctuated with dark walnut-stained oak for a modern take on mixing warm neutrals. While simple, abstract artwork with wall bead detailing adds subtle texture and visual interest to the walls.

Bohemian spirit

Parquet chest of drawers | Parquet bedside table | @kingsgate_makenzie

Accessories can instantly lift a room and are a simple way to change the look of your space. This neutral bedroom has a boho feel, brought to life with tufted Moroccan-style cushions and layered accessories in a warm neutral palette for effortless style to sleep in.

Feeling inspired to refresh your space? Explore more real home transformations on Instagram and TikTok, and don’t forget to share your neutral haven with us using #OakFurnitureland and #GrowYourHome for a chance to be featured.

The post Warm neutral decor ideas appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.

Whether you love canary brights, muted mustards, rich golden tones or delicate pastels, there’s a yellow that works for your interior style. Read on to discover top tips for embracing this optimistic shade.

Which rooms work best with yellow?

Morgan sofa | @poursomecolouronme

Because yellow is such an upbeat and happy colour, it’s always best to use it in rooms where you want to add extra energy. However, yellow can quickly overwhelm the senses, so if you’re just beginning to experiment with this shade, start with smaller doses by introducing accessories, artwork or soft furnishings before moving on to walls or larger pieces of furniture.

Using yellow in the living room

Oliver sideboard | Harris chair

In a living room, a bright yellow accent chair or sofa can inject a pop of colour, creating a striking contrast against dark wood furniture or adding warmth to cool-toned walls.

Hope wall art | @nouk.home

If you’re unsure about bright seating, accessorise a simple beige sofa with vibrant yellow cushions. Bring the look together with a yellow floor lamp and wall art that complements the colour palette, creating a cohesive interior scheme that’s filled with energy.

Inca corner sofa | @morkily

If you enjoy decorating with the seasons in mind, choose accessories that are easy to update, such as cushions, throws, candles, and vases in different yellow tones. Mustard shades add warmth in the autumn and winter months, while brighter yellows bring a sunny finishing touch in spring and summer.

Using yellow in a hallway

Original Rustic console table | @stylishhomesearch

In an entranceway, bold yellow walls might feel too intense, or a lack of natural light could prevent this colour from reaching its full potential. Instead, keep the look subtle and airy by choosing some brightly coloured yellow flowers or unique lighting to create a warm welcome. This happy shade, even in small doses, is sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face!

Using yellow in the bedroom

Parquet bedside table | @home_of_roberts

When adding yellow into your bedroom, consider a statement wall colour or wallpaper, a bold headboard, or rich curtains to combine with softer shades to create an intriguing yet restful look that’s anything but boring.

Copenhagen chest of drawers | @renovating_wynd_house

A yellow accent chair, small sofa, or chaise can add a fun and engaging touch to a children’s bedroom, perfect for reading time. Draw on this lively shade for inspiration when selecting art to decorate the walls — tying the whole space together effortlessly.

Bevel bedside table | @myhomeat122

For a calming look, opt for tactile textiles, such as cushions or throws in your preferred shade of yellow to add a touch of vibrancy. Combine with more soothing, restful colours to keep the room relaxed for when you are ready to unwind.

Using yellow in the dining room

Dorset dining set | @acton.life.and.home

Brighten up your dining space with cheerful yellow accents that evoke warmth and positivity. Even something as simple as a vase filled with fresh daffodils or vibrant sunflowers can instantly lift the mood and create a welcoming atmosphere. Whether used as a centrepiece on your dining table or styled on a sideboard, yellow florals add a fresh and optimistic touch to the space.

Parquet dining table | @thelightshesees

For an inviting tablescape, take inspiration straight from the kitchen by incorporating food-themed elements that feel both stylish and fun. Lemon-inspired tableware is a popular choice, bringing vibrant pops of yellow that instantly energise the space. Pair citrus-printed napkins, plates, or even the real thing with blue or natural woven placemats for a touch of escapism. This citrus-inspired decor adds a playful charm, perfect for brunches, summer dinners, or simply brightening everyday meals.

How will you be using yellow in your home? We’d love to see! Share your snaps with us using #OakFurnitureland #GrowYourHome on Instagram. For more yellow interior inspiration, check out our blog post about Dulux colour of the year, True Joy.

The post How to decorate with yellow appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.

Mirrors have long been a favourite trick of interior designers. They bounce light around a room, create the illusion of extra space, and add an instant touch of elegance. But beyond simply hanging one on the wall, there are so many clever ways to use mirrors in your home.

With lighter days around the corner, why not get your home spring-summer ready and make the most of mirrors in new and exciting ways? Here are some clever ideas to get you started, from simple accents to dramatic statement pieces.

1. Light it up

Newton mirror | @houseofhetheringtons

One of the easiest ways to maximise a mirror’s impact is to place it near a light or lamp. In the evening, the soft glow is reflected, creating a warm and inviting ambience throughout the room. This trick works especially well in small or dimly lit spaces.

2. Alcove accents

Make the most of those tricky alcove spaces by lining them with mirrors. This is a great solution for darker areas with little natural light. Simply placing a small table and a lamp in front of a mirrored alcove can create a beautiful, light-enhancing reflection. For a traditional touch, choose antiqued glass, or opt for a sleek, polished finish for a contemporary feel.

3. Faux window effect

Payton mirror | @serenenumber18

If your space lacks natural light, a well-placed wall mirror can make a big difference. A large, framed mirror can mimic the look of a window, reflecting available light and visually expanding the space. Similarly, a contrasting frame colour can enhance the illusion, making it feel like a second window in the room.

4. Over the fireplace

Newton mirror | Newton chest of drawers

A classic yet effective way to use a mirror is to place one above the mantelpiece. This not only enhances the height of the room but also reflects light and draws attention to a key focal point in your living space.

5. Brighten the hallway

Serena mirror | @farmhouse_by_the_brook

Hallways are often narrow and dimly lit, making them the perfect place for mirrors. A long mirror down a hallway wall can create the illusion of more space and bounce light around to make the area feel more open and inviting.

6. Dressing table effect

Burleigh mirror | Burleigh chest of drawers | @thelightshesees

Transform a simple set of drawers into a chic dressing table by leaning a mirror on top or wall-mounting a mirror above. This adds an elegant yet practical touch to a bedroom or dressing area, maximising both storage and style.

7. Floor-standing mirror

Payton mirror | @budgethomeinterior_

For a dramatic effect, consider adding a floor-standing mirror in your bedroom or living area. It not only makes the space feel larger but also brings a modern, sophisticated touch to the room.

8. Clever corner mirror

Newton chest of drawers | @no14hectorshouse

For an unexpected way to maximise space, try placing a mirror in a corner. This creates depth and helps to reflect different angles of the room, making it feel more expansive. It’s especially effective in small rooms, adding a sense of openness and light.

9. Statement mirror as art

Aurora mirror | Original Rustic chest of drawers

A beautifully designed mirror can serve as a piece of art and a focal point in any room. Whether it’s an ornate vintage piece, a sculptural modern design, or a uniquely shaped mirror, placing it in a prominent position can enhance the aesthetic of your space while reflecting light and depth. Try a large wall mirror above a console table, in an entrance or as a centrepiece in a living room to create a striking visual impact.

10. Mirrored wall

Photo by Chantal Garnier on Unsplash

For the ultimate wow factor, why not create an entire mirrored wall? Whether you use full-length panels or design an eclectic geometric arrangement, a mirror-clad wall instantly makes a space feel grand and luxurious. This look works particularly well in dining rooms and living areas where you want to amplify light and create a sense of grandeur.

11. Vintage mirror gallery wall

Why settle for just one mirror when you can create a whole gallery? Group a collection of vintage or decorative wall mirrors together for a striking display. Sourced from flea markets, second-hand shops, or online marketplaces, a mix of different shapes and styles adds charm and character to any room.

12. Add a mirrored tray

Credit: Sena on Pexels

For a unique touch, repurpose a small-paned mirror as a tray for your coffee table. It adds depth and interest while reflecting decorative objects placed on top. Try arranging candles on the tray to amplify their flickering glow and create a cosy ambience.

Mirrors are one of the easiest and most effective ways to enhance your home’s interior. Whether you’re using them to brighten up a dark space, add decorative flair, or create the illusion of more room, there are countless ways to get creative. We’d love to see how you style mirrors in your home! Share your photos with us and tag us on Instagram using #OakFurnitureLand #GrowYourHome.

The post 12 clever ways to use mirrors in your home appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.

Dark wood pieces work well throughout the house. Whether your home is period, classical, modern or contemporary, this style can be dressed up or down depending on your choice of accessories. Imagine walls and homewares in coffee, cocoa, and caramel tones perfectly complementing our darker wooden cabinetry collections such as Oliver, Madison, Detroit, and Islington. This cosy, indulgent aesthetic seamlessly combines with lighter oak furniture, creating an intriguing contrast.

Here are some impressive ways to make dark-toned furniture look beautiful in your home.

Make a dark furniture statement

Oliver dining table with Otis chairs | Oliver sideboard

The resurgence of mid-century style has ushered in a preference for darker, moodier pieces that can enhance the warmth of a room and create a cosy, inspiring and relaxing space. There’s a certain elegance that only dark wood furniture can capture, thanks to its rich and welcoming tones, so try matching your dining table to your sideboard to add real depth and create impact.

Madison double bed | Madison bedside table | Madison wardrobe | Isabella accent chair | Immersed wall art

Dark wood bedroom furniture, such as the pieces from the Madison collection, adds texture to the bedroom, especially when enhanced by accent colours and soft fabrics. Depending on the choice of wall colour and ornaments, bedside tables and wardrobes in dark wood, along with other statement pieces, create a rich and romantic feel.

The softer approach

Islington sideboard

Alternatively, you can soften the look of dark wooden pieces while still creating a cosy, snug style by incorporating other deep colours into the room, whether on your walls, through upholstered furniture, or with extra little accessories. Opt for shades such as chalky grey-greens and deep muddy blues, which work particularly well with this style of furniture.

Mix and match

Oliver console table

Light wood has undeniable popularity, so it’s likely that you already have some neutral pieces in your home. Add a few pieces of dark wood furniture with fluted detailing among these lighter pieces to create an interesting contrast between light and dark, adding plenty of wow factor.

Detroit large sideboard

Embrace a mix-and-match approach, adding dark wood that will work well with other elements in your room. Consider adding a single bookcase to an alcove, choosing a dining table set with slightly different chairs, or selecting a sideboard to enhance your living or dining room with an eclectic look and much-needed storage.

Somewhere in the middle

Hercules dining table with chairs | Hercules sideboard | Scroll back dining chair

If you’d like to layer your look and start with something a bit lighter, there are plenty of shades of dark wood furniture. If you prefer something with a subtle dark stain, you’ll love our Hercules range. The pieces, such as the dining table or sideboard, are versatile and can complement a number of different colour schemes.

Original Rustic chest of drawers

Along with the Hercules range, the French Farmhouse and Original Rustic collections are all slightly lighter in tone but still retain timeless style. From new builds to country cottages, these ranges will fit effortlessly into your home.

Elba TV unit | Seymour sofa | Seymour footstool

Perhaps you prefer a furniture style which looks a bit more contemporary, choose pieces with sleek silhouettes, modern detailing, and even mixed materials like acacia and marble.

While medium dark woods tend to add textured tones to your home, all dark wood furniture creates a bold statement, creating luxurious contrasts and accentuating any home accessories.

If you have some beautifully styled Oak Furnitureland pieces you’d love to share with us, post your photos on Instagram and tag us with #OakFurnitureland #GrowYourHome

The post How to style dark wood furniture appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.

With so much emphasis on the spaces we share with others – from our living rooms to kitchens – the bedroom is often pushed down the priority list in favour of rooms others will see.

That doesn’t mean if you are working with a smaller budget, you can’t achieve beautiful results. Creating a cosy haven doesn’t need to mean spending large amounts of money – just a few fun ideas, creativity and a willingness to spend some time giving your room the attention it deserves.

So, if you are looking to add a bit of style to your bedroom but you don’t have a big budget, look no further than this round-up of affordable ideas to create a bedroom you love.

Paint the walls

Noah triple wardrobe | @therowe

One of the least expensive and easiest changes to make is a fresh colour on the walls. Most of us can wield a roller and a paintbrush and within a weekend, it’ll create a big impact without having to fork out a lot of money.

For the best results, make sure you prep the walls before you start – fill any small holes with filler and wipe down any dust or dirt before you make a start. Taping off areas you don’t want to get paint on will give you more professional results too.

Add wall panels

French Farmhouse bed | French Farmhouse bedside table | @a_house_and_its_chows

Panelled walls are a big trend that shows no sign of disappearing. It’s a simple way to add character to otherwise plain rooms and is particularly popular with new-build homeowners, looking to add more traditional features.

Simply cut the pieces to size and use a small nail gun and adhesive to attach them to the wall in a pattern. Use a spirit level to ensure everything is straight, and fill any gaps with decorators caulk. There are lots of tutorials on Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok to help you get started, with cut-to-size MDF available from many DIY retailers if you don’t want to cut it yourself.

Introduce texture

Wren bed | Wren bedside table

When it comes to styling your bedroom furniture, you’ll likely want to add items that create cosiness and warmth. Texture will help you to achieve that, so consider adding things like woven baskets to stash extra throws, a few decorative cushions on the bed, or a large rug to keep your feet from cold floors first thing in the morning.

Evesham ottoman bed | Copenhagen bedside table

You might also want to consider hanging shallow baskets, woven wall hangings and artwork or rattan mirrors, which add texture and interest to the space above beds.

Get creative with mirrors

Madeline mirror | @layered.home

If your room is on the smaller side, use mirrors to add the illusion of depth to your space. Mirrors will also bounce light around a darker room (hang one opposite a window for the best effect) while also handy for getting ready in the morning.

Whether you like the idea of circular, rectangular, statement or window-pane style, we’ve got a wide selection of mirrors to choose from. Plus, we’ve got several styles that match our furniture for a perfectly coordinated look.

Bring the outdoors in

Hove chest of drawers | @atthelisles

Nature has a calming influence and offers a way of connecting us to the outdoors. You don’t need to hit the florists on a weekly basis to get the look, as this can really add up. Choose faux blooms or opt for plants instead. As long as you look after them, plants are a more long-term way to introduce greenery to your home.

Not only do they look nice but they also have health benefits, with naturally purifying plants ideal for bedrooms. Don’t miss our houseplants guide to help you become a green-fingered expert.

Style your surfaces

Durham chest of drawers | Hamilton accent chair

While bedside tables and chests of drawers often become dumping grounds for everything from yesterday’s post, to clean laundry waiting to be folded, resist the urge to clutter up surfaces.

Instead, decorate with accessories, photo frames, candles, books and fresh foliage to achieve the design ethos of less clutter and more style.

Add personality with art

Hope wall art | @layered.home

One of the simplest ways to make your bedroom look more polished is with artwork. A striking piece can liven up a blank wall in an instant, while a gallery wall is a lovely way to bring some of your favourite memories together.

We’ve got an impressive collection of different pieces of wall art, all at affordable price points, that add a stylish finish when hung near bedroom furniture such as beds, above chests of drawers or as standalone features.

Layer throws for a luxe look

Parquet bedside table | @our_hanbury_hideaway

And finally, even the plainest of bed linens can be lifted by some considered layering. Choose complementary colours and layer each on the bed along with two or three cushions for maximum comfort and style.

For a hotel-chic look, choose matching bedside tables and lighting to achieve a truly polished finish that will ensure the most peaceful of slumbers.

Hopefully, that’s given you plenty of inspiration to help you style your bedroom on a budget. We’d love to see how you style your space. Make sure to tag us at #OakFurnitureland #GrowYourHome on Instagram and browse our complete collection of bedroom furniture sets for the perfect foundations for your sleep sanctuary.

The post Affordable bedroom ideas appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.

Accent furniture is a statement piece that stands out from the rest of the room by adding colour, definition, or drama to a living space. It’s a perfect way to add some personality to your home with new colours, textures, or shapes. Plus, accent chairs are versatile enough to be used anywhere such as in your lounge, bedroom, office, hallway – or perhaps a quiet nook where you might like to take a seat and have a few minutes of peace.

So, in the hunt to find your perfect accent chair, we’ve pulled together some things to consider…

How will I use it?

Alexander chair | Henley tallboy

If you’re creating a reading nook, then depending on the space, you might want a chair that is a little bigger to relax in. If the chair is to be a focal point in your living room and is likely to be used quite regularly then you could consider something that reclines, or perhaps team it with a matching footstool for a bold style statement.

In the bedroom, a chair can create a cosy ambience but probably needs to be a bit smaller to allow free movement around the room. Likewise, for a hallway or any other high-traffic area in your home, a smaller, more compact chair would be most suitable.

You could also use your accent chairs as extra seating for your dining table. The perfect way to cater for additional or unexpected guests, without the need to have spare dining chairs stored away or having to get the wobbly stool out of the cupboard! Ensure that you select firm, sturdy chairs that are the correct height for the table to allow your guests to reach the table comfortably – as a guide, a chair that has a seat 16-18 inches from the floor works best.

What colour armchair should I choose?

Harris chair | Richmond nest of tables

Now here comes the most fun part of choosing new furniture.

Since you want your accent chair to create visual interest in a room, it’s a good idea to choose something that contrasts with the existing decor – think ‘opposites attract’. If you have a room that is full of colour or pattern, then choosing a simple plain piece can add variation and depth.

Alternatively, if your room is decorated in a more muted style, a striking chair that picks out a colour or tone in the room can bring a pop of colour. Or throw total caution to the wind and choose a colour that is completely different to make a statement. In a nutshell, when it comes to colour there are no rules, anything goes!

Do I need to consider the fabric?

Aside from colour, it’s also worth considering the fabric you choose. If the room has a lot of woven fabrics, perhaps a leather chair would offer a bit of variety and provide a durable, hardworking solution for busy rooms. Similarly, if leather isn’t your thing,why not go for a plush velvet to add an interesting texture?

How do I pick a style of armchair?

Halle chair

As you have probably guessed, we favour contrasting our accent furniture with the rest of the room, whether that be through colour, fabric, or even style. A modern, fresh, and minimal room will look fantastic with a traditional wingback or curvaceous chair in a paired back colour, adding an interesting silhouette to the room. When it comes to choosing accent furniture, then the possibilities are endless!

We’d love to see how you use accent pieces in your home. Don’t forget to share your photos with us by tagging us on Instagram or using #OakFurnitureland #GrowYourHome.

The post How to choose an accent chair appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.

Whether you have a dedicated dining room space or a kitchen/diner, the first thing to consider when choosing your table is how much space you have to play with and how many people you want to fit around it on a regular basis.

We offer a wide range of solid hardwood dining sets, with a choice of sizes, including useful extendable tables that are ideal for special occasions when you host extra guests.

Whatever your taste, we’ve got a table that’s right for you – from industrial-style designs and Scandi-inspired ranges to glass-topped contemporary and rustic farmhouse-inspired tables, with a choice of chairs and benches.

Read on for inspiration on how to style your table and the space around it – perfect for bookmarking when you’re ready to purchase the table of your dreams.

Luxe Living

Oliver Dining Set with 6 Chairs | Oliver large sideboard

Experience the epitome of dining luxury with our Oliver walnut-stained oak dining table. The statement plinth legs adorned with beautifully fluted panelling ensure every gathering is imbued with a little grandeur. Style with coloured glassware and accent upholstered chairs or dark wooden seating to create the perfect place to dine in style.

Industrial cool

Brooklyn dining set | @bellway_easton

Add a touch of industrial style to your home with the Brooklyn dining set, bringing together beautiful natural wood with galvanised metal details. The fusion of the two materials creates a perfect modern loft aesthetic teamed with exposed brick and contemporary green tones.

Scandi-style

Durham table and 4 chairs

Embrace the allure of Scandinavian-inspired dining with our Durham table, a masterpiece of understated elegance designed to enchant. Fashioned from solid oak, its smooth natural finish exudes an effortless charm that seamlessly harmonises with any interior decor. Durham epitomises minimalist sophistication, making it the perfect piece to work alongside other natural wooden accessories and neutral wall colours for a cosy and intimate dining space.

Match perfect

St. Ives dining set | St. Ives dresser | St. Ives console table | St. Ives sideboard

Create a cohesive dining room look by choosing coordinating pieces from the same range. The warm grey tones of our painted St. Ives range adds a touch of country style that works perfectly in modern homes and period properties alike.

Table for two

Dorset dining table | @home_of_roberts

Whether you’re enjoying mid-week dinners or dedicated date nights, make mealtimes an occasion by setting the table. Our natural oak tables are the ultimate blank canvas and lend themselves to all kinds of styling set-ups. Go for a retro, pared-back look with vintage-style crockery and natural accessories.

Family-friendly comfort

Romsey extendable dining table | Scroll Back dining chair | Romsey small dresser | Romsey tallboy

Our Romsey range, with its soft rounded corners and simple design, is the perfect choice for busy family homes. The understated modern range teams beautifully with bright coloured accessories and design details that complement the natural oak and add a fun and playful finish to the room.

Art deco design

Islington dining table with 6 chairs | Islington large sideboard

For those who love to host in style, look towards our Islington dining table, an enticing fusion of Italian Carrara marble and dark wire-brushed acacia. Its striking geometric legs and polished marble top will transform every meal into a sophisticated affair. Team this mixed material table with the elegant yet simple coordinating dining chairs and statement lighting to complete this inviting look.

Embrace natural light

Dorset dining table | @our_claytoncorner_

Place your dining table and chairs as close to natural light sources as possible to allow the sun’s rays to flow in all day long. Not only can you enjoy mealtimes in this light-filled space but it’s also a calming spot for afternoon cuppas, post-school snacks and homework hubs.

Bring the outdoors in

Highgate dining set | @mo_morshuis

Make your dining space an extension of your garden by adding a menagerie of houseplants. The inky blue and natural oak tones of our Highgate dining table look lovely paired with the different greens of indoor plants. Pick up tips and inspiration in our decorating with plants blog.

Orrick dining table | @thetraditionalhome

Beautiful blooms always create a striking and uplifting centrepiece for your dining table and are especially attractive teamed with our natural oak furniture.

Browse our selection of dining tables, chairs, and dining room furniture, plus you can also create the perfect set-up for your home with our dining set builder.

We’d love to see how you style your dining tables. Tag us at #OakFurnitureland and #GrowYourHome on Instagram to share your homes.

The post How to style your dining table appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.

It doesn’t have to be back-breaking or time-consuming, just follow these spring cleaning hacks from influencers and experts and you’ll have a spotless home in no time.

What is the fastest way to clean a house?

Newton coffee table | @livingwith_sienna

We all want to spend less time on housework and more time doing the things we love. The best way to spend less time cleaning is to keep on top of it in the first place, with storage organisation and quick daily cleaning sessions that maintain your house on a regular basis. That said, there are ways to speed up the process if you’re not starting from an already clean jumping-off point.

Tackle the worst thing in each room first to get it out of the way and make the biggest impact. Taking care of that will give you a sense of accomplishment and motivate you to carry on.

How do I deep clean my house like a pro?

Highgate triple wardrobe | @somerford_manor

Professional cleaners use certain tricks of the trade to consistently get homes to look and smell fantastic. Their number one tip is to declutter first, then work from top to bottom as you clean. If you start by tackling ceiling cobwebs and dusty high shelves, any dirt and debris will be shifted to the floor, where it can be picked up by sweeping, vacuuming, or mopping as your last step.

In addition to moving from top to bottom, the pros also work in sections. They move from the back of the room to the front or visually divide the room up by pieces of furniture. By focusing on just one area at a time, they can clean it effectively and move on to the next section efficiently.

Cleaning hacks for kitchens

St. Ives dining set | @athomewiththepurcells

Start with your hob as it’s often the worst part. To clean grease off a flat-top hob, sprinkle bicarbonate of soda across the surface and lay lukewarm damp tea towels over it to soak. After about 15 minutes, you can use the tea towel to wipe off the bicarbonate of soda and all of the loosened grime.

Plus, the tea towels can go straight in the washing machine with any other load, as there aren’t any harmful chemicals involved in this cleaning hack. A similar method can be used to clean your oven as well, all you need to add to the soda is some vinegar and dish soap for this handy TikTok tip.

How to clean Tupperware

If you want to reuse greasy plastic take away boxes or have Tupperware that’s stained and difficult to clean, then you need to try this TikTok hack from @uzy-au. Just put some hot water, a pump or two of soap and a piece of kitchen roll in the box. Then close the lid, shake it around for 30 seconds, and voilà, they’re now beautifully cleaned ready for a rinse and dry, and then perfect for storing leftovers.
Keeping your cleaning clean…

Make sure you’re not spreading germs around the kitchen with a dirty sponge. Put a damp kitchen sponge in the microwave for 90 seconds to disinfect it. Studies show this will reduce bacteria by up to 99%. This trick saves you creating a small pile of sponges from just one clean while still keeping your home as germ-free as possible.

Easy ways to remove limescale

If you’re worried about the chemicals in traditional limescale removers, this might be a great alternative to try. Buy a large bottle of lemon juice or white wine vinegar, and every time your kettle needs descaling, fill it up halfway with either solution and boil it. Leave to cool and if there is still some limescale left, repeat the process again. Once you’re happy with the results, empty and boil it once or twice more with tap water and you’re all ready to go.

If you live in a hard water area, adding some white vinegar to your dishwasher will also prevent your glasses from getting mineral build-up, which can often be difficult to remove.

Cleaning hacks for bathrooms

Pexels | Karolina Grabwoska

Stay on top of your bath or shower cleaning with weekly wipe downs. Ideally, you want to quickly remove limescale and soap residue before they build up. However, if you’re too busy for a daily clean, you can tackle the hard-to-shift limescale using WD-40 as demonstrated by @rubycleansthings on TikTok.

Use what’s at hand

If you want to fit in some more regular cleans but don’t want to store cleaning products in the bathroom, then this surprising hack might be for you. Some experts say shaving foam works great for breaking down the limescale on shower glass. Just pop it on, wait 15 minutes and wash it off.

Go eco without the effort

If you’re trying to stick to eco or DIY products (or just don’t have time to nip to the shops) try this lemon and salt hack. Dip half a lemon in salt and scrub the limescale residue. The acid of the lemon and the abrasive salt work together to break it up. As a bonus, your shower will smell lemony-fresh too.

A bath of bicarbonate

We’ve already talked about how useful a dash of bicarbonate of soda can be when it comes to effective cleaning hacks around the home, so this one might not come as a surprise.

If there is a stain or build-up you just can’t get rid of, then try this trick. Just mix some washing up liquid with bicarbonate of soda and sponge it onto those hard to shift areas. Give it 10-20 minutes and then rinse it off, and you should be left with a sparkling clean bath.

Cleaning hacks for living rooms

Morgan sofa | @51stinthemanor

Living rooms are the cosiest room in the house, but they’re also a magnet for dust and hair. It’s easy to forget to clean fabrics as well as furnishings, but make sure you give your sofas, blinds, lamps and cushions the attention they deserve. Use a lint roller or vacuum brush attachment to clean them properly.

When it comes to cleaning your sofa, consider investing in a carpet cleaner or renting one to give it that extra fresh spruce. And, if you’re looking for the products you need to take proper care of your sofas, check out our fabric and leather care kits.

Cleaning hacks for bedrooms

Parquet bedside table | @new_build_forever_home

Your bed is one of the largest pieces of furniture in your home, and it’s where you’ll spend a good chunk of your time. Although we change and wash our bedding regularly, most of us overlook the mattress itself.

Freshen up your mattress on a monthly basis by sprinkling bicarbonate of soda on it and allowing it to sit for a few hours. When you vacuum up the bicarbonate of soda, it will have soaked up any odours and made them disappear.

How to get fresh sheets everyday

We all love that feeling of getting into freshly washed sheets, but there’s a surprisingly easy hack that can help give you that feeling every day. Buy some fresh smelling tumble dryer sheets, and pop one or two under your bed sheet in a place you don’t sleep on (like the top corner). This will give a faint but refreshing scent to your sheets for longer.

It’s also worth keeping in mind that if you make the bed as soon as you wake up, it might actually be better to wait and let it cool before doing so. Studies have found that an unmade bed could help get rid of dust mites and potentially reduce allergy or asthma symptoms. While not conclusive, you could try making your bed towards the end of the morning instead of the beginning and see if it makes a difference.

Cleaning hacks for dining rooms

Parquet dining table | @hausfifteen

In most households, the dining room has become a central hub for family life. In recent times it’s become truly multi-functional as a home office, a home work and crafting station and more. As it’s such a hive of activity, the dining room’s biggest challenge is being adaptable and tidy enough to accommodate all of these different purposes.

When it comes to cleaning your dining room, the top-to-bottom rule applies here. Dust cobwebs and light fixtures, cabinets and wall art, and then move on to the table, and finally hoover right at the end.

If you’ve got young kids or just love a good cocktail party, it’s easy for fabric dining room chairs to get messy. If you’ve run out of a proper fabric care kit, you could always try using fabric upholstery spray for cars, as this is often extra tough on stains. Watch @daysharae’s TikTok tying this to see just how impressive the results are. If it doesn’t remove the stain the first time, you might just need to do another round, so don’t give up.

Ready for a full spring declutter?

Malvern Sofa | @_homebyalessia

Let your pre-loved pieces find a new purpose with the help of our British Heart Foundation partnership which offers a complimentary furniture collection service. Schedule a slot at your convenience, and let the local heroes from BHF whisk away your items to be resold and raise money for this incredible charity.

We hope these cleaning hacks are useful for giving your space a new year refresh. If you’re loving how these hacks make your space look and feel, share images with us by tagging #OakFurnitureland on Instagram. We can’t wait to see your homes sparkle!

The post Simple steps to a spring clean appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.