If you’re craving a more restorative night’s sleep, it might be time to rethink your space. With the right furniture choices and some thoughtful touches, you can create a sleep-friendly bedroom that feels like a true haven. Here are some practical and inspiring relaxing bedroom ideas to help you design your perfect retreat.

Sleep takes time

Brompton wardrobe | Brompton tallboy | Brompton bed | @a_house_and_its_chows

You aren’t a machine, so don’t expect your sleep to work like an on/off switch! Our bodies need time to unwind, and the production of the sleep hormone, melatonin, takes time to kick in.

Wren bedside table | @no11.housereno

Starting your bedtime routine around an hour before lights out is a good way to wind down. Switch off screens (yes, even Netflix!) because LED light suppresses your body’s production of sleep hormones. Instead, try dimming the lights with a lamp or dimmer switch to signal to your body that it’s time to rest.

Henley bedside table | @thestanleydiary

When you finally get snuggled up in bed, don’t worry if you don’t fall asleep immediately after your head hits the pillow; the process can take about 20 minutes! If your mind is racing, try keeping a notebook on your bedside table to jot down any worries or ideas, and experiment with simple relaxation techniques to calm your thoughts.

Create a dreamy environment

Parquet bedside table | @the_rogans_kentdale_home

Your surroundings play a big role in how well you sleep. To create the ultimate bedroom for better sleep, consider both comfort and atmosphere.
Did you know that the ideal sleeping temperature is between 16-18 degrees? At night, your metabolism naturally slows and you cool down, so keeping your room at a moderate temperature can help trigger that sleepy feeling.

Newton bedside table | @our4_bedreno

Your surroundings play a big role in how well you sleep. To create the ultimate bedroom for better sleep, consider both comfort and atmosphere.

Did you know that the ideal sleeping temperature is between 16-18 degrees? At night, your metabolism naturally slows and you cool down, so keeping your room at a moderate temperature can help trigger that sleepy feeling.

Newton four-poster bed | @livingwith_sienna

All of your senses work together to help you sleep, so don’t forget about smell! Certain scents are known for promoting good rest. Lavender and geranium are two of the best scents for encouraging sleep, and we’re also partial to the soothing smells of vanilla. Try using a pillow spray or add a candle to decorate your bedside table for a calming touch.

It’s all in the design details

Parquet bedside table | @home_at_hawthorn

 Small interior design tricks can transform your space and help create a relaxing bedroom that makes it easier to switch off.

 Newton chest of drawers | @the.stoneham

Furnish your room with beautiful, peaceful objects. Replace that phone on your bedside table with a good book to read as your body calms down for sleep. Photos of loved ones or favourite memories on top of a chest of drawers can also help create a sense of security and relaxation to lull you to sleep.

Bloomsbury bed | Blakemere mattress | Hove bedside table

Don’t forget that the foundation for a good night’s sleep is a good bed. Include one of our high-quality mattresses and dress it with your favourite sheets, duvets, and some sumptuous pillows to create a bed you just can’t wait to crawl into. For top decision-making tips, read our article on how to choose the right mattress by the industry experts.

 Evesham Ottoman | @oursmallterrace

Colours can have a big impact on the feel of your bedroom. Bright shades like reds and yellows are often stimulating, which may not suit your desire to calm your mind down for rest. However, if you love bright tones, think about incorporating them into your accessories. Otherwise, muted or pastel colours set the perfect tone for sleep. Light blue or sage green pairs beautifully with our natural oak bedroom furniture ranges.

At the end of the day, sleep is a personal experience. Experiment with these tips to find what works best for you, and you’ll be well on your way to a more restful night. For more inspiration, discover our full range of bedroom furniture.

We’d love to see your relaxing bedroom ideas brought to life! Share your photos and videos with us on Instagram or TikTok by tagging #OakFurnitureland #GrowYourHome.

The post How to create a relaxing sleep sanctuary: bedroom design tips appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.

In smaller homes, multi-use rooms, or compact flats and apartments, furniture that serves double-duty can make all the difference. Our high-quality, well-designed sofa beds are a secret weapon in your space-saving mission. They can comfortably seat guests while you’re entertaining, and with our top tips, can magically transform your guest bedroom into an inviting and welcoming space, without taking up a permanent position.

No extra room? No problem

Nap sofa bed

Not everyone has the space for a spare room to accommodate a separate guest suite. If you live in a one-bedroom flat, studio, or small bungalow, clever planning means that you don’t have to turn down friends’ or family members’ requests to stay the night.

Eastley 2-seater sofa bed | Noah sideboard

A two seater sofa bed like the Eastley design is ideal for small spaces. It looks modern and stylish during the day and easily transitions into a comfortable sleeping spot by night.

Eastley chaise sofa bed | Noah display cabinet | Noah sideboard | Clouds rug

For those who love to stretch out and relax, the Eastley chaise sofa bed is a brilliant choice. Combining comfort, storage, and practicality, it’s a versatile must-have for any modern home. This spacious corner sofa bed is designed with real life in mind, offering a hidden storage compartment beneath the chaise section, perfect for neatly tucking away extra blankets, bedding, or cushions.

Thanks to its easy two-fold mechanism, it smoothly transforms into a comfy bed, complete with a 10cm deep foam mattress to ensure guests enjoy a restful night’s sleep.

For a quick privacy solution, a stylish folding screen can create a bedroom-like feel and conveniently folds away when not needed.

Make the most of multi-use spaces

Inca sofa bed | @paintitprettyhome

Wondering what to do if your home’s extra rooms are dedicated to other purposes, like a home office or children’s playroom? No problem! You don’t have to give up your space when guests arrive. With compact, multipurpose furniture like the Inca sofa bed or an armchair sofa bed, you can enjoy the best of both worlds.

Inca sofa bed | @paintitprettyhome

And don’t forget the accessories

Eastley chaise sofa bed | Noah display cabinet | Noah sideboard | Clouds rug

Sometimes, it’s the little things that make the biggest difference. Using stylish blanket boxes as a coffee table alternative offers a clever way to hide extra bedding. And that nest of tables beside your sofa bed? It can double up as a handy bedside table for overnight guests.

Snooze sofa bed | Parquet sideboard | Mayfair rug

Space-saving for guests can be a simple, pain-free process with smart solutions like sofa beds, multi-functional accessories, and clever planning. For family stays, you can create a welcoming, stylish, guest-ready home without sacrificing your living space. Whether you opt for a 3 seater sofa bed for larger spaces or a sofa bed chair for tighter corners, there’s a solution for every need.

Show us how you save space in style! Tag us on Instagram or TikTok and use #OakFurnitureland and #GrowYourHome to share your smart sofa bed setups and stylish small space solutions.

The post How to use sofa beds for space saving 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.

Read on to discover our different storage options and ideas for styling them, whatever your taste and design preferences.

Go stylish with sideboard storage

Oliver sideboard | @littleedwardian

Undoubtedly, sideboards have earned the top spot as one of the most versatile storage pieces, for any home. They offer fantastic space-saving functionality for living rooms, dining rooms, or even hallways, as a great first impression of your home.

They are a handy storage solution while also providing ample space on top where you can display your most treasured trinkets and decorative objects. Why not brighten up an otherwise unused space with a beautiful new sideboard?

Parquet sideboard | @millinerbellway_

Sideboards are also an excellent choice for bedrooms, providing ample storage for clothes, accessories, toiletries, and make-up. Pair them up with pieces from the same range for a beautifully coordinated and serene sleep sanctuary.

Compact your clutter with a console table

Maine console table

Often referred to as a ‘hallway table’, console tables have traditionally found their home in entranceways. However, their versatility extends far beyond greeting guests at the door. While they can be the perfect, stylish solution to storing keys and placing envelopes, they can also be used to lift your dining or living room style.

Don’t quite have enough space for a large sideboard in your dining room, but could still do with some handy drawers and a space to showcase your favourite mirror or wall art? A console table provides the perfect compact storage solution for your belongings and a great stylish accent for your home.

Tidy up with a tallboy

Brompton wardrobe | Brompton tallboy | @a_house_and_its_chows

It can be difficult to find the right storage especially when space is a premium. This is where pieces such as tallboys come in. Their slender silhouette and deep drawers save precious floor space while giving you heaps of storage.

Pop it in a small corner of a bedroom, or tuck it away on a landing or in a dining room to store anything from socks and linen or even cutlery and napkins.

Arrange your belongings in a blanket box

Copenhagen blanket box

A blanket box used to be a staple for any bedroom, sitting at the foot of the bed as a beautiful home for linens, blankets and your out-of-season wardrobe. However, that’s not their only function. They can also serve as a toy box in a child’s room or playroom, a coffee table in your living room, storage for boots in your utility room, or even a bench in your hallway.

Opt for a storage footstool

Dalby sofa | Dalby storage footstool | @mo_morshuis

From toy tidy to cushion collector, turn your footstool into a practical addition to your living room by choosing one with in-built storage. Go for a coordinating piece from the same range as your sofa for a cohesive set-up, with the option to use your storage footstool as a perch for tired legs or an additional coffee table.

Streamline your bedroom

Bloomsbury ottoman bed | @layered.home

Choose one of our storage beds to maximise this often-under-utilised space in your bedroom. Our ottomans offer easy-to-access storage via a simple gas-lift mechanism.

Now you’re ready to revolutionise your storage! Our Oak Furnitureland ranges breathe style, versatility, and functionality, ensuring you have both the look and the storage you need for your home.

How are you currently using storage pieces in your home? Share it with us by tagging #OakFurnitureland #GrowYourHome on Instagram.

The post Stylish storage solutions for every home 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 love minimalist decor, cosy farmhouse interiors, maximalist style or bright colours, we’ve got plenty of inspiration to help you decide how to style your space and select the best bedroom furniture.

1. Make a statement with your wallpaper

Hove bedside table | @danielle.lisle

If you’ve found yourself falling in love with the luscious ferns and jungle motifs, your bedroom is the perfect place to carve out your very own slice of paradise. A bold-printed feature wall behind a bed draws attention to the centrepiece of the room and complements modern bedroom furniture such as the Hove bedside table in this stylish room setup.

2. Embrace darker tones

Burleigh bedside table | @kirstyscottage_life

While brightness is brilliant, dark and moody colours are also a major design trend. Transforming rooms with an air of refined retro style, darker tones pair beautifully with our natural oak furniture. Our Burleigh range is a great choice for darker schemes, with its warm weathered finish and metal handles that tie in perfectly for a seamless finish.

3. Give artwork the attention it deserves

Bevel bedside table | @ourhomeine4

Your favourite pieces of art should be given pride of place in your bedroom. Showcase them wherever eyes will be immediately drawn to them, such as above the bed. For an extra-special effect, select shades from the artwork and use these as the palette for choosing your lamps, decorative accessories, bed linen, and more.

4. Adopt the loft living lifestyle

Maine storage bed | Maine wardrobe | Maine bedside table

For a look modern millennials will love, our Maine range brings chic style to any bedroom. Its marriage of industrial details and natural oak will give your sleeping space an ultra-cool edge. The storage bed gives off loft living vibes, while accessorising with houseplants adds a dash of greenery that softens the look.

5. Incorporate coastal living

Hove tallboy | Hove king-size bed | Hove chest of drawers

Welcome the sunshine of the South Coast into your room with the help of our painted white bedroom furniture sets like Hove, which has a retro-modern appeal. Its chalk white finish, warm oak tops and rounded curves look brilliant with shades of blue to complete that seaside feel no matter how many miles you are from the sea.

6. If you’re short on space

Durham Wardrobe | Durham bedside table | Durham bed

Often, space is at a premium in our master bedrooms, but this doesn’t mean you should sacrifice on the style stakes. Our Durham range is a modern bedroom furniture collection with a slim-lined, pared back and truly elegant aesthetic, bringing the sought-after Scandi touch to your sleep sanctuary.

7. Use pink as your primary palette

Parquet chest of drawers | @atnumberfourteen

There are plenty of perfect shades of pink that energise your room, working well with contrasting colours like green to harmonise your space. Salmon pink is beautiful when set against white, like the soft, washed-painted finish of our Wren range, an ideal choice for simple style.

8. Have plenty of stylish storage options

Newton side table | Newton bookcase | @littlehouseinlondon

You’ll want smart storage options that take away the clutter but are still stylish. While we do provide plenty of gorgeous chests of drawers and wardrobes, we also offer more unconventional storage solutions like bookcases, tallboys and blanket boxes so you’ll never be at the mercy of mess again.

10. Embrace farmhouse style

French Farmhouse king-size bed | French Farmhouse bedside table | @a_house_and_its_chows

Create a homely backdrop to your bedroom with our French Farmhouse range. This classic collection of bedroom furniture features a rustic stained finish that exudes classic country charm and warming home comforts.

11. Utilise natural light

Parquet bed | @our_little_devon_reno

If you have a south-facing bedroom, make the most of the natural sunlight and create a bright and calming escape. Maximise the light even more with crisp white walls and bedding, using a natural oak bed to add warmth to the space. For an extra tactile touch, introduce cushions and throws in plush fabrics.

12. Carve out a playful children’s room

Romsey chest of drawers | @athomewithellesmith

Add personality to your little one’s room with a fun teepee and playful art. Bedroom furniture like the Romsey chest of drawers is the perfect choice for children as it’s got stacks of space to store clothes and toys to keep bedrooms tidy.

13. A place for pampering

Newton dressing table | Bette chair

Start the day right with one of our dressing tables, offering ample room for your beauty products, accessories and appliances. Making the most of a designated space to get ready is a real luxury and definitely worth adding to your bedroom so you can enjoy somewhere to carve out a bit of ‘me time’.

14. Introduce mixed materials

Islington 1 drawer bedside table | Islington 5 drawer tallboy | Clouds metallic rug

Elevate your bedroom by mixing up your furniture and accessory materials. Pair upholstered beds, like this winged headboard design, with sleek marble top bedside tables for the perfect contrast, all from our Islington range. Add warmth with lots of layered natural fabrics for your bedding and rugs to create a chic yet cosy appeal.

Discover our complete range of bedroom furniture and find all you need to carve out a peaceful sleep sanctuary. Plus, head to our Instagram for more inspiration, ideas for your home and tag us in your updates #OakFurnitureland #GrowYourHome

The post How to style your bedroom 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.

We know you want to start putting your own stamp on your new home right away but there are a few key decorating rules to keep in mind with new builds. We spoke to experts at the NHBC (National House Building Council), and several home construction companies to pull together everything you need to know about decorating a new build and what you should and shouldn’t do!

Your home needs time to settle

Evie sofa | @new_build_forever_home

With all the beautiful patterned wallpapers out there, we understand why this might be on your decorating agenda, but builders recommend leaving 6-12 months between when you move in and wallpapering.

This is because new building materials, such as the timber in the walls and fresh plaster need time to dry out and it’s best if they dry out slowly. As your walls dry, you may notice small cracks forming. This is totally normal, but it may damage wallpaper, and if any additional work needs to be done by your building company, such as fixing any problems that may occur, that would also spell the end of that lovely new printed wall.

There are ways you can minimise cracking and movement from the drying process though. Try to be sparing with the central heating during your first winter in the house to allow walls and joinery to naturally expand and contract with the seasons, and open the air vents in your windows to keep a gentle flow of fresh air.

And, if you just can’t stand your white walls, you can always reach for the paint. As long as you use breathable paint, like a matt emulsion, this will not affect the drying process. Just remember to keep some paint saved for touch-ups if required.

From the floor to the ceiling

Parquet chest of drawers | @709_design

Painting your skirting boards? Remember that new woodwork tends to absorb a lot of paint or stain, so don’t be alarmed if your first painting doesn’t give as good a finish as you were expecting. As your home settles, later decoration will have a more even and weathered surface to take the paint and stain better. But when you do paint it, make sure you have a clean and properly prepared surface that is totally dry to start with. This will help to keep it looking its best.

And a top tip for ceilings; many new builds have a plastic compound finish which should never be sanded or washed. So if you want to embrace the painted ceilings trends, lightly brush the surface to remove any dust or cobwebs, and then you will be able to paint it gently with a few coats of emulsion to create a custom look.

Tackle the big jobs first

Scroll back dining chairs | @amy.elizabeth.home

While it might be tempting to start with a simple job first, if you begin decorating your new home with the tougher, messier jobs, like a kitchen update, you could be saving yourself lots of hassle in the longer term. You wouldn’t want someone treading tile grout through your freshly decorated living room, or scratching a newly painted wall while bringing in a new fridge.

Perhaps consider doing garden work before laying your carpets. Newly built gardens tend to have more dirt than grass, and bringing in the patio pavers now stops them from staining a beautiful new rug!

Tackle those messy and more difficult tasks first. Then, your lovely decorated rooms are more likely to stay that way for longer!

Expect the unexpected

Parquet desk | @hannahcoates.design

Be diligent with your snag list, and remember, sometimes, even the professionals get it wrong. If there is something not right in your new home, and your building company needs to make a repair, they won’t redo any of the decorative work that you have done. Sometimes it’s best to wait a few months to try and uncover any hidden problems.

Additionally, before you drill into your new walls, make sure you know what’s behind them. You don’t want to puncture a cable or damage any electrical work you can’t see. You can help to establish the exact position of cables that are inside walls and flooring with a cable detector to help safeguard you from hapless DIY disasters.

What can you do to decorate a new build?

Romsey triple wardrobe | @insideours

As it turns out, quite a lot! There’s no need to put up with an empty white box while you wait for your new build home to properly settle (unless that’s your personal style!). There are plenty of decorative tasks that you can tackle straight away to help your house feel like a home.

Window dressing is a big one. Blinds and curtains are not only a great way to regulate temperature and add privacy to your space, but they’re also perfect for adding a bit of personality. There are lots of stunning styles available; velvet drapery adds a luxe feel, while a brightly patterned print can add a modern twist to a room.

Throw rugs are another fantastic way to add colour and softness to a room, and they have the added benefit of being easy to move if work needs to be done. Scatter cushions and blankets can all add that bit of wow factor to a room.

If you know you’re going to be painting or wallpapering a room in the future, or don’t want to put holes in the wall, but love art, Command hooks are a lifesaver. Sticking to walls with a gentle adhesive, they won’t damage plaster or paintwork, and they allow art to be quickly rearranged to your changing tastes, making them perfect in teen rooms for example!

Once the decorating is done, now’s the time to pick your furniture. Oak Furnitureland has pieces for the whole home, designed with longevity in mind and made from quality hardwood and upholstery. Whether you’re looking for a sofa to complete your living room, a bed to finish your sleep sanctuary or a desk for your home office, we’ve got it all.

What other decorating tips have helped you in your new build home? Let us know on Instagram, and share your real home photos with us by using #OakFurnitureland.

The post New build house rules appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.

While duck egg blue is a year-round favourite, it leads the pack as one of spring’s favourite hues. Read on to discover different ways to incorporate this peaceful shade into your home decor.

Highgate bed | Highgate bedside table | @our_skelton_in_the_meadow

Combining duck egg blue with similar shades is one of the most effective ways of using this colour when styling your home or choosing your decor. Delicate greens or turquoise tones work particularly well with this shade, creating a tranquil look that’s perfect for your living room or bedroom. Or opt to team with inky blues for a more dramatic look that’s still tranquil enough for a bedroom.

Parquet large sideboard | @roseontherow

It also contrasts beautifully with rose pink for decor that radiates pastel perfection. If you’re wary of going overboard on this pastel pairing, opt for subtle touches in accessories such as lamps, artwork or picture frames.

Brompton bed | @a_house_and_its_chows

For a fresh look, embrace a more coastal style by combining it with white painted furniture. We love this peaceful calming bedroom scheme that features duck egg wall panelling and coordinating cushions and decorative accessories that bring the look together seamlessly.

Detroit console table

Our dark-stained Detroit range teams perfectly with a duck egg backdrop and instantly softens the space. Use houseplants to add a refreshing pop of green that finishes off the look in style.

As you can see, there are plenty of ways to use duck egg blue in your home. How will you be using it? We’d love to see! Share your snaps with us using #OakFurnitureland on Instagram!

The post How to decorate with duck egg blue appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.

It can be as easy as introducing a few bright accessories or as bold as adding a lick of paint to the walls, but giving your space a splash of colour may be just what’s needed to get you out of the winter blues! Here are some ideas to get your started.

Add sunshine

Parquet bedside table | @belfasthomebird

If you want to make your bedroom the ultimate cheery space then canary yellow is your colour. While it might be overkill on the walls, choose to use the shade as an accent piece to really make it stand out without being too much.  This yellow velvet bed looks fabulous in this bedroom set up, especially when anchored with more neutral pieces such as a simple glass and linen lamp, and our Parquet bedside table.

Moody blues

Original Rustic wardrobe | @style_the_hawthorns

Blue doesn’t have to be a cold colour and can be the ideal choice for a relaxing and peaceful bedroom. Go bold on the walls but choose a shade that isn’t too dark and has a bit of warmth in. Pale pink is the perfect pairing for indigo blues and looks lovely weaved into accessories such as light fittings or cushions, while our Original Rustic wardrobe adds a natural element.

Create warmth with accessories

Parquet bedside table | @aliceincolour

Rather than investing in new bedding, try giving your existing set a winter upgrade with cheerful, bright accessories. We love how the geometric print cushions and burnt orange throw look teamed with crisp white sheets. The blue wall creates the perfect backdrop for @aliceincolour‘s own artwork, while our Parquet bedside table adds natural warmth to the space.

How will you be adding some colour to your winter bedroom this year? We’d love to see! Tag us at #OakFurnitureland on Instagram.

The post Colourful winter bedroom inspiration appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.