1. Relax in style: Eloise sofa

Eloise 3 seater sofa | Eloise armchair

Long weekends were made for lounging, and the Eloise 3 seater sofa is here to help you unwind in comfort. With its plush cushions, deep seats, and gently curved silhouette, Eloise adds a soft, classic charm to any living room. Style it with the Eloise armchair or simply layer on throws and warm lighting, if the bank holiday weather isn’t playing ball, for the ultimate cosy corner.

2. Sleep in comfort: Evesham bed

Evesham king-size bed | @oursmallterrace

Bring timeless elegance to your bedroom with the Evesham king-size ottoman bed. Beautifully crafted with refined fabric upholstery, its generous ottoman base offers discreet storage, while the grand frame provides both support and style. Pair with fresh linens and natural textures for a calming, heritage-inspired retreat.

3. Smart storage: Durham drawers

Durham 5-drawer chest | @fray_at_home

Add enduring style and character to your bedroom with the Durham chest of drawers. Crafted from solid oak with a warm, natural finish, it features clean lines and subtle detailing for a classic yet refined look. With five roomy drawers, it offers practical storage and brings a sense of quiet sophistication to any space.

4. Curved comfort: Leo corner sofa

Leo fabric corner sofa

Shaped for relaxation, the Leo corner sofa features gently curved lines that create a cocooning feel, perfect for settling in. With built-in recliner functionality and generous seating, it’s designed for everything from laid-back lounging to movie nights. Supportive cushions and soft upholstery make comfort effortless, while the modern silhouette adds a contemporary touch to your living space.

5. Dine in style: Maine dining set

Maine dining table set | @2flats1house

With its industrial-inspired design, the Maine dining table pairs a warm wood top with contrasting metal legs, bringing a modern yet welcoming feel to your dining space. The set includes a matching bench and our Mason dining chairs, blending comfort with contemporary style for everything from relaxed family meals to special weekend gatherings.

6. Rest elegantly: Brompton bed

Brompton king-size bed | @a_house_and_its_chows

Add a touch of modern country charm to your bedroom with the Brompton king-size bed. Crafted from solid acacia in a soft off-white finish with an ash top, it combines Shaker-inspired design with subtle contemporary details. Tongue-and-groove panelling brings character, while the sturdy frame offers lasting comfort and support, perfect for creating a calm, welcoming place to unwind.

Don’t miss your chance to transform your home this August Bank Holiday. Discover exclusive savings on quality furniture designed for comfort, character, and everyday living. Plus, enjoy peace of mind with our Oak Furnitureland Lifetime Furniture Guarantee. Shop the sale now, while stocks last!

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Styling your sofa is easy with a few simple tricks. By choosing the right combination of cushions, textures, and thoughtful colour choices, you can transform it from plain to Pinterest-worthy. This guide takes you step by step through the art of sofa styling, with helpful tips for every kind of setup, from compact two-seaters to sprawling corner sofas and versatile sofa beds.

The power of a cushion: Small details, big style

Eloise sofa

The easiest way to begin styling your sofa is by setting a solid foundation. If you’re going for a symmetrical look, try placing two larger cushions at either end. These should either complement the colour of your sofa or gently contrast with it, think navy on grey, or a soft blush against cream. This creates a sense of balance without looking overly styled.

Dewsbury sofa | @mrs_roobottom_home

From there, it’s time to bring in some personality. Layer in cushions with subtle patterns or textured fabrics such as a woven knit, plush velvet, or even bouclé if you’re feeling bold. These smaller cushions sit neatly in front of your base ones and give your sofa a curated, layered look.

Pattern play and standout shapes

Montgomery sofa | @ohmyedwardian

Pattern mixing doesn’t have to be intimidating. A simple rule of thumb is to vary the scale by pairing one bold print with a mid-sized pattern and something small or subtle. Keeping the colour scheme consistent will help the mix feel cohesive rather than chaotic. For more pattern clashing tips, check out our Q&A with interior influencer, Tamzin McGillen.

Evie sofa | @barn_owls_and_butterflies

If your current collection feels a little too boxy, shake things up with a cushion in a different shape. A lumbar cushion or a circular design in the centre draws the eye and breaks the monotony. This can act as your statement piece, something playful or striking that adds real character to your sofa.

When asymmetry works best

Montgomery sofa | @rachelducker

While symmetry is timeless, there’s something wonderfully relaxed about an asymmetrical arrangement. A group of three cushions in varying textures and tones can often look more inviting than a stiff, mirrored lineup. The trick here is to stick with odd numbers and make sure there’s a visual rhythm, a velvet cushion next to a woven fabric one, a plain style beside a subtle stripe, and so on.

Morgan sofa | @51stinthemanor

If you’re feeling adventurous, introduce one cushion that completely contrasts with the rest, maybe a pop of mustard on a muted grey sofa or a bold geometric print among soft neutrals. This adds a little surprise and makes your styling feel fun and creative.

Styling by sofa type

2 seater sofas

Eton sofa | @archie1971

Smaller sofas don’t need to compromise on style. With limited space, less is more. Two cushions and a soft throw can do wonders, just choose complementary tones and fabrics that suit how you use the sofa. If you have pets or little ones, durable textures and darker shades are your best friends, especially if they’re machine-washable.

Corner sofas

Malvern charcoal sofa | @laurahomeandlifestyle

L-shaped and modular sofas give you space to be a bit more playful. Start by adding a couple of large cushions to the outer edges, then work inwards with smaller ones in contrasting textures or subtle patterns. Drape a throw casually over the corner seat to soften angles and add a layer of warmth. Want more ideas? Our complete guide to corner sofa layouts has plenty of styling inspiration.

Sofa beds

Eastley sofa bed

Sofa beds call for a clever blend of style and practicality. Opt for throws and cushions that can double up as bedtime essentials. A blanket box nearby makes for stylish storage, while textured cushion covers can cleverly disguise pillows until they’re ready to be used. It’s all about making your space work beautifully for both day and night.

Colour combos that just work

Malvern corner sofa | @inside.our.roost

Pairing the right colours can elevate your entire sofa setup. A grey sofa, for example, looks effortlessly chic with mustard and navy accents, while earthy olive and rust tones bring warmth to a neutral beige. If your style leans to more luxury, try blush pink and gold with a navy sofa, or soften charcoal with cream and sage. Playing with colour is one of the easiest ways to reflect the mood you want in your space.

Common styling mistakes to avoid

It’s easy to get carried away when styling your sofa but restraint can be your best design tool. Avoid piling on too many cushions, especially if they’re all the same size. This tends to look cluttered and flat. Instead, aim for variety, not just in size, but in texture and tone too.

Matching everything too perfectly can also backfire. Instead, let your cushions and throws echo different parts of the room like a shade from your curtains here, a texture from your rug there. This helps your sofa feel connected to the rest of the space, not isolated in it.

Be sure to check out our full range of sofas to help you create a gorgeous living room set up. Many of them come with matching and contrasting cushions which make styling super easy.

Finished your sofa makeover? We’d love to see it! Share your look with us on Instagram or TikTok by tagging #OakFurnitureland #GrowYourHome. Your space might just be featured in our next styling roundup.

The post How to style your sofa 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.

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”With the cool and contemporary marble surfaces paired with the rich texture and warm woods, our new Elba and Islington ranges add a touch of understated elegance to your home.”
Elena Mellowes, Head of Buying at Oak Furnitureland

When it comes to styling these unique pieces there’s plenty to play with. Here are some lifestyle-inspired tips to help you make the most of your modern furniture.

Colour cleverly

Islington coffee table | Clouds metallic rug

Let the materials themselves inspire your colour palette. Take cues from the subtle grey tones of mottled marble as seen in this Islington marble top coffee table or the warm array of brown hues in acacia pieces and mango wood furniture.

Islington side table | Islington large TV unit

Be inspired by the natural surroundings these materials would have once found themselves within, such as calming greens like khaki or sage and earthy neutral shades to harmonise.

Elba Round Side Table

For those looking to add interest, inject pops of retro-inspired colours like teal, mustard, or orange in your accompanying furniture and accessories for that extra flair.

Embrace texture

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

Balance the inherent hardness of wood, metal, and marble by including soft, tactile textiles into your decor scheme. Opt for natural fabrics such as leather, brushed cotton, or linen to add warmth and comfort to your space. Layer textured rugs to soften the look of the room while maintaining its chic appeal.

For bedroom styling, an upholstered bed like this winged headboard design from the Islington collection is the perfect way to bring softness in contrast to sleek marble top bedside tables.

Time to shine

Islington 5 drawer chest | Islington double bed with winged headboard

To enhance mixed material furniture even further, throw in some hints of metallic through your lighting and home accessories to really elevate the look. Whether that’s subtle accents like a desktop tray or vase to bigger pieces of lighting and hardware. This approach will echo the metallic details in the furniture as well as reflect the beautiful materials they are laid upon or next to.

Elba storage coffee table | Elba large TV unit

Brass works especially well with these warmer wood tones or look towards glass accessories as another way to keep things light and reflective.

Natural connection

Islington side table | Islington coffee table | Islington large TV unit

Maximise the natural beauty of mango wood furniture, acacia pieces and marble design by integrating elements of nature into your home. Position your furniture in the space intuitively to make the most of natural light from nearby windows and provide a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Elba large sideboard | Clouds metallic rug

Additionally, consider scattering houseplants to bring life and vitality inside, further complementing the organic feel of your furniture.

Reflective beauty

Islington dressing table | Isla velvet dining chair | Evelyn mirror in gold

Strategically place mirrors throughout your space to amplify natural light and create the illusion of space. Mirrors not only help bounce light around the room but also accentuate the layers of colour and texture in your mixed material furniture, adding depth and dimension to your decor.

Artistic harmony

Islington 6 drawer chest | Hamilton chair | Clouds metallic rug

Art can add personality and visual interest to your space, tying the room together in a cohesive and harmonious way so let the style of your furniture inspire your choices. Whether it’s art deco or mid-century modern influenced, select pieces to echo this design, such as geometric prints that mimic the lines of your furniture or abstract pieces that complement your colour palette.

Islington dining table with 6 chairs | Islington large sideboard

Alternatively, turn your gaze towards artwork with a more free-form approach to contrast with the harder lines of the wood, marble and metal materials for a more relaxed look.

Elba large TV unit

Follow the curve

Islington desk | Clouds metallic rug

Introduce rounded silhouettes into your furniture and accessory selection to complement the curves of your mixed material pieces. Whether it’s a curved sofa, a comfy desk chair or decorative objects with soft, organic shapes, embracing curves can create a sense of fluidity and movement in your space, enhancing its overall visual appeal.

By following these styling tips, you can transform your home with mixed material furniture, creating a space that’s both stylish and inviting. Head to the Oak Furnitureland website to browse the full ranges and be sure to follow us on Instagram and tag us at #OakFurnitureland and #GrowYourHome in your posts to show off your updated spaces!

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What colours go with a brown leather sofa?

If you’re looking for the best colours to pair with a brown leather sofa, then you’ll want to opt for an earth tone colour palette. Brown has a reputation for being a dull, monochromatic colour, but we couldn’t disagree more! There’s such a rich selection of brown shades: tan, honey, chocolate, the list goes on.

Here are the brown leather sofa colour schemes we’re loving at the moment:

• Beckon in the sunshine with sand-inspired whites and yellows
• Go for the urban feel with modern blacks and off-whites
• Add feeling with textural browns, think exposed brick and natural or rustic oak furniture
• Soak up earthy terracotta and/or deep fuchsia to add an understated warmth

Need a bit more inspiration? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at our brown leather sofa guide.

Turin armchair | Romsey console table

If you love earthy hues and Mediterranean-inspired shades, we think you’ll love our Turin sofa range. The round shape of the cushions and armrests beckon relaxation, while the brown leather complements warm colour palettes, demonstrating just how vibrant a sofa of its kind can be in the right living room.

Dexter 2-seater sofa | Dexter storage footstool | Original Rustic console table

If maybe you’d love a brown sofa but leather isn’t your thing, then these shades will also pair well with a fabric version. Take inspiration from our Dexter range of sofas that exhibit traditional design features, which makes any of these pieces perfect for classic living room interiors – think modern manor house with layers of neutral blues and greys. As brown is such a touchstone of colour when it comes to room design, with Dexter, the devil is in the details such as the button stitching, tartan accenting and ornate, hardwood feet.

What colours go with a grey sofa?

Want to know the best colours to pair with a grey sofa? Then you’re in luck! We struggled to find any colours that don’t go with a grey sofa. That’s because grey living room colour schemes are oh-so on-trend thanks to their versatility and elegance.

But here are the ones that make our favourites list:

• Prettify your interiors with pastels such as lilacs, baby blues, soft pinks
• Citric colours, like lime, tangerine, lemon, will add a zest of life
• Blacks and off-whites carry on the neutral theme
• Get inspired by natural eco-systems, like the jungle or seaside

Texas left-hand corner sofa

The silver fabric upholstery of our Texas sofas has an ever-so-slight violet tinge which gives it a super soft edge. Our painted furniture ranges would be ideal with a Texas sofa, as would modern-retro style collections like Romsey with its sunny natural oak disposition.

Zodiac 5-seater modular corner sofa

On the other hand, slate grey is having its time in the spotlight, so you may be tempted by the contemporary cool of our modular Zodiac sofas. Ideal for large living rooms with loads of natural light, pair with jewel tones like jade or opal to inject some rich pops of colour that will complement the sleek upholstery.

Bramble 2-seater sofa

See, we told you grey was versatile! Make a loud and proud statement with a printed grey fabric, like you’ll find here in our Bramble sofa. As we value the individuality of every home, Bramble comes in a variety of plain and patterned body fabrics as well as 10 different colour combinations. Patterned greys are a really great option for a neutral living room that doesn’t want to stick to monochromatic or grayscale shades.

What colours go with a black sofa?

If you’re opting for a black sofa in your living room colour scheme, much like with dark grey, we would recommend black is paired with either light colours across the walls and floors, or with lots of natural lighting so your room feels less shadowy (unless the gothic look is what you’re striving for!).

There are a few palette options available to help bring out the best in a black sofa:

• Block-like monochrome, especially when it’s art deco-inspired
• Keep it understated and add soft tones like ivory, pastel blue or light matte grey
• Add splashes of amber and daring reds for a bold contrast
• Choosing gold/ metallic accenting or mustard hues will add warmth
• Adding inky navy tones will create an eclectic feel

What colours go with a blue sofa?

Blue is the statement, characterful colour choice. Whether you’re opting for a cooling powder blue, blue and white stripes or an electric pop of velvet blue, this colour will always make an impact. But it’s how you style it that will determine how bold you want your statement to be.

Whether you go for luxurious blue walls and floors, or white and wood to soften your blue sofa, there are lots of different design schemes that makes a blue sofa a winning choice, some you might be surprised at:

• Seaglass shades to add an element of serenity and interest
• Burnt orange feels like an opposing colour, but it’s actually a show-stopping combo!
• Retro beach colours (think whites, reds and sandy yellows) are a friendly, welcoming interior scheme
• Metallic hues, particularly silver, copper or brass, add edge and depth

Montgomery 2-seater sofa and armchair | @rachelducker

If opulence tickles your fancy, you’ll be sure to fall in love with the sumptuous style, shape and touch of our Montgomery sofa range. Designed to pay homage to the iconic Chesterfield style, the velvet upholstery is a contemporary twisteffect that makes room for Montgomery in the modern living room.

What colours go with a beige sofa?

Your living room doesn’t always have to be bold to be beautiful, nor does beige need to be boring. A neutral beige sofa fabric can span the shades of taupe, grey and cream and is truly chameleonic when it comes to home design, but remains attractive without shouting look at me!

Here are some beige sofa colour scheme ideas:

• Cottagecore, florals, forest greens, natural and rustic oak, is one of the biggest interior design trends at the moment
• Scandi neutrals are a cool, contemporary look
• Incorporating stone adds contrast
• Prints and patterns such as peacock or polka dots allow you to express your personality

Malvern modular 2-seater sofa

Our Malvern modular sofa range is effortless, it’s lovely and laid-back thanks to its trendy shape and boho-inspired upholstery. With a crisp sofa like Malvern, you can tactfully embrace splashes of colour while maintaining a truly palliative tranquil ambience that will never go out of style.

Can you mix sofa colors?

We certainly advocate mixing sofa colours because sofas are a long-term investment. If you love shaking up your home style, your sofa needs to be flexible and versatile as you swap out new prints, pillows and throws each season. Mixing and matching sofas with accent chairs and armchairs is also a fantastic way to express yourself and your eclectic tastes. Shop our full range of sofas online today.sofa

The post How to choose the right colours to pair with your sofa appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.

When selecting a sofa, there are a number of things to consider: the size, shape, style and colour will all factor into your decision. All the choices can seem overwhelming, but we’ve put together the following expert advice to make it easier for you to curl up in comfort.

• Measuring up your space
• Ensuring ultimate comfort and quality
• Selecting your sofa style
• Mixing and matching with your living room furniture

Measuring up your space

Brighton corner sofa | Brindle side table | Brindle large sideboard

The size and scale of your room should be what motivates your choice. For example, do you have enough space for a sprawling corner sofa or would a loveseat and footstool work better? Don’t forget to consider the architectural layout of your home, such as bends, windowsill height and any declining ceilings.

How do I choose a sofa size?

1. Before you even begin to browse the market, decide the appropriate place for your sofa to live and measure this space carefully. Having a ready set of dimensions means you can choose a sofa length, depth and height that is fit for purpose.
2. Think about the other furniture that’s already in your living room or that you plan to put there during the redesign process. As well as being able to move around the room, you’ll also need to be able to open sideboard drawers, access the bookcase or manoeuvre around other pieces of furniture or accessories in the space. Measuring up your living space can be a bit tricky, so head over to our sofa sizing guide for more detail or alternatively, for general living room measurement guidance, we’ve highlighted key things to consider here.
3. A really important measurement that some people can overlook is the doorway height and width. Can you even fit your sofa through the hallway? The diagonal depth of your sofa will help you work out if your sofa will fit through the door. You can turn yours on its side or twist it into the doorway, else split sofas can make delivery easier.

For more on sofa shapes, see our guides to corner sofas and sofas and loveseats.

Ensuring ultimate comfort and quality

Jensen sofa | @hollypmcgowan

It should be a given that relaxation is optimised by quality and comfort. Not only do you want a beloved space to cosy up in the evening, but you want the furniture you invest in to stand the test of time, taking everything that life – especially in a busy family – throws at it.

How can you tell if a sofa is good quality?

1. Make sure to check the frame and joinery
   Cheaper frames tend to be made from plastic, metal or pine which can warp after a few years, meaning your sofa will become worn and old much quicker than you might hope.
   If the frame wobbles or twists when you move it from side to side, or it seems lighter than expected, it’s unlikely to be made from a durable hardwood frame such. Alternatively if you’re unable to go into store, check the item description for details about the materials.
   At Oak Furnitureland, all our sofa frames are made from hardwood, so that you can love it for years to come.
2. Check the sofa seat construction
   When shopping, ask the experts about seat construction. Rather than using fabric webbing that can stretch and sag, look for seat cushions that are supported by heavy gauge serpentine springs. Supporting seat cushions in this way will help with shape retention and overall comfort.
3. Check the quality of the fabric
   With laid-back lounging, you shouldn’t have to worry that putting your feet up will damage your sofa. Choosing genuine leather upholstery or a high quality fabric will mean your sofa looks as good as it feels, day after day.
4. Types of sofa fillings
   The best type of sofa filling depends on preference and aesthetic. Most sofas are made from either foam, feather, fibre or are a mixture of fillings.
   Foam provides firm support and keeps its shape for longer and if you have some mobility issues, you might find a foam sofa easier to get up from.
   If you’re after that ‘sink in’ feeling, then fibre might be your preferred option. It can require a bit more upkeep to keep the fibre preserved but will certainly be nice and comfy. Plus if you have certain allergies or sensitivities, this might be a good option.Feather filled is by far the softest option as it moulds to your shape and creates an incredibly plush and relaxing sofa experience. Much like fibre, feather requires regular plumping and some may find a predominantly feather sofa doesn’t provide enough support. Often you’ll find a combination of foam and fibre filling as it provides support from the foam but give a layer of softness from the fibre too.

Selecting your sofa style

Jensen 2-seater sofa | Hove nest of tables | @laurie-homeandgarden

You may be drawn to clean lines and its associated schools of design (Scandi or mid-century, for example), or you have a desire to sink back into a more traditional high-back sofa. Else, the needs of your home might require a versatile, modular pillow-back. While personal taste is, of course, a key factor in your decision making, don’t forget to consider your practical needs and lifestyle choices.

So, what should you think about when choosing your sofa’s style?

1. Choosing a sofa for your sizing needs

Brighton corner sofa | @lockdown_lifestyle

In cosier living rooms, you don’t want your sofa to swallow up your living space. At the same time, you don’t want to sacrifice style either – even if it’s just you and your partner enjoying a movie night, or you have a friend round for a glass of wine. All our sofa ranges come in a variety of sizes so if you’ve fallen in love with a particular three or four seater sofa but don’t have the room or need for it, there’s always a space-saving 2-seater sofa available for those who seek a more compact size.

Choosing a sofa for a family home? Accounting for the number of people in your household, as well as friends and extended members of the family who come to visit is particularly important. For a more customisable look, opt for sofa sets offering space for the whole family. If you love hosting and socialising, then a corner sofa could be for you. At Oak Furnitureland, we understand that every home is different and has its own unique requirements, which is why we also offer modular sofas so that you have the opportunity to personalise one of your home’s most important pieces of furniture.

2. Picking a sofa for your functional needs

When it comes to picking out your sofa, you’ll need to think about the most appropriate upholstery for your lifestyle needs. Whether you’re a parent who is forever mopping up spills, or you like to put your feet up at the end of the day, durable leather that can be easily cleaned may be for you. Quality fabric sofas may offer an alternative, particularly if you’re looking for something a bit more resistant to pets and their tendency to scratch upholstery!

For the host with the most, a sofa with dual-functionality – either in the living room or another location in the home such as the bedroom, spare room or office – may be your best choice. Traditionally an unstylish piece of furniture, our sofa beds are designed in-line with our bestselling sofa ranges, so never look out-of-place in your interior design scheme. They’re also equally designed with comfort in mind, providing a great night’s sleep for guests when they come to stay.

3. Selecting a shape for your style

Evie 2-seater sofa | Evie loveseat | @our_self_build_ni

If you lack the floorspace for a corner sofa or you wish to create a cohesive look without using just one sofa, a sofa set could be a brilliant option for your home. There are plenty of ways to mix and match living room seating such as by using different pieces from different ranges or different coloured fabric from the same range. Else, create a fully put together look with a selection of matching sofas and armchairs from the same collection. The possibilities are seemingly endless!

Gainsborough 3-seater sofa | @19_insidegemshouse

Stretching out head-to-toe on a corner sofa is an ultra-comfy option, but sometimes you want a little bit of help to put your feet up. For this, we have two options. The first is the ever-popular recliner sofa. Our electric recliners use the highest quality steel mechanisms and motors. Their space saving design, means the sofas and chairs can be used close to a wall with only a marginal gap needed for clearance. We also have a manual operation for layouts that aren’t close to a power socket.

Alternatively, your personal taste may sway more towards a stylish footstool to be a part of your sofa set. An ultra comfy place to kick back, many of our footstools also contain secret storage compartments to help you organise your space. Who doesn’t love a smart storage option!

Mixing and matching with your living room furniture

Selecting a sofa is a major life decision and you want it to look beautiful in the context of your home design. If you prefer subtle interiors, you may want to opt towards a neutrally coloured upholstery and furniture that matches – for example, grey fabric and a selection of pieces from one of our painted furniture ranges.

As the sofa is the centrepiece you might, however, want to make more of a splash. Statement-making options include richly coloured upholstery, printed geometrics in the soft furnishings and accessorising with accent chairs. Pairing your sofa with bold furniture from painted, hardwood or metal ranges is perfect for creating an on-trend contrast.

Ready to pick out your new sofa? Browse our wide range of sofas now to find the perfect fit for your home. And don’t forget to show us your new looks over on Instagram using #OakFurnitureland.

The post How do I choose a sofa for my living room? appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.

St. Ives large sideboard | St. Ives 6 and 8 seater extendable dining table | Wave Back rustic oak dining chair

Dive into home maintenance

The best way to mark a new start in the home is through a total refresh, that means decluttering, repairing and, you guessed it, some aptly-named spring cleaning! By putting winter objects away for next year and getting rid of things you don’t need anymore, you’re giving yourself space for change and really demarcating a physical shift in surroundings when it can feel quite stagnant.

Next, we recommend setting out time to fix and repair the things that you didn’t quite have time to get to over winter. Bothered by a wonky blind? Fix it. Been meaning to upcycle an old console table? Get your apron on and start painting. The longer daylight hours will keep you motivated.

Romsey large sideboard | @herandhers_

All sofas and armchairs, whether they’re fabric or leather, need to be cared for after the excess in traffic over the winter period and its associated festivities.

Change up your accessories

Now it’s time to incorporate the sights and smells of the season to really bring a sense of spring into your home. Where you had bundles of blankets for winter, store them away in your storage footstool or blanket box and swap them out for softer hues or brighter prints. Think sunny yellows, sweet pastels and zesty geometry.

Updating your lighting will also help your new colours shine. Perhaps change your curtain fabric to something less heavy and velvety, opting instead for a lighter fabric in a colour like cream. This will help you maximise the hours of sun and help brighten up any corner of the home, providing less of a need for lamps that created that all-important wintry glow last season.

Jensen two seater sofa | Hove nest of tables

Mirror the new life outside by bringing life indoors this spring. Houseplants are ever-fashionable and have lots of benefits such as improving air quality and emitting a feeling of calm. Arranging an indoor jungle on a spare surface is especially useful for those living in an urban setting and who don’t have access to a garden.

Hercules large sideboard | @shell_williams71

Another way to invoke the world in bloom in your home is through springtime smells. Scented candles, diffusers, and oils will create a very aromatic feeling in the home. Don’t forget that the greatest springtime scent is the outdoors itself, so be sure to regularly let the changing air in by opening doors and windows wide, especially now it’s becoming warm enough to do so.

Brighten up your interiors and decor

If you fancy a total DIY renovation, you may want to roll-up your sleeves and give a certain room a new lick of paint. Changing the colour to something like a blushing pink or Scandi-inspired neutral will bring about a sought-after brightness, or you could go all-out with spring-inspired wallpaper. Whatever avenue you take, you’ll be really proud that you completed such a monumental project so early on in the year.

Parquet chest of drawers | @interiors_with_alice

You could even take it a step further and have new floors fitted, tearing away old carpets in exchange for summer-ready exposed wooden floors. If that’s too much work, however, consider a new area rug to help bring a burst of life to a living room or bedroom layout. For more spring styling tips, read this blog piece for even more home ideas and inspiration.

Evie loveseat | @home_with_robyn

The ultimate way to get your home ready for spring is to incorporate a fresh look with new furniture. Treat yourself to something you’ve been eyeing for a while, perhaps an accent chair for a reading nook that overlooks the garden or an even bigger change such as a new dining set to really usher in a new era.

You should now be ready to give your home a fresh look for the changing seasons. Don’t forget to show us your new looks over on Instagram, tagging us and using #OakFurnitureland.

The post The ultimate guide to getting your home ready for spring appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.

Even if you’re pinching pennies, there are plenty of simple but really beautiful ways you can uplift your home. Here are our easy tips for decorating with minimal fuss.

Reorganise your home

Decluttering will improve the quality of your space and mark a new beginning. This is a simple way to start, but it will have a huge impact on your entire home. You may wish to make some physical changes here too; install open shelving for both functional and display purposes or invest in new pieces that won’t break the bank. Browse our smart storage options like slimline tallboys for tricky spaces or multipurpose blanket boxes that can double up as a window seat.

Make bookcases beautiful

We love bookcases because they’re not only useful, but they also have gorgeous display capacities. Order books by the colour of their spine rather than in typical A-Z fashion for a dazzling ombre effect. You can also line the interior of the bookcase with wallpaper to make yours one-of-a-kind.

Copenhagen small bookcase

Recalibrate

While you don’t necessarily need to reorder your life to adhere to the principles of feng shui, it won’t hurt to press reset on your home decor. Try moving things from room-to-room and make pieces that are usually tucked away in more private spots, like the bedroom, the focal points of communal rooms and spaces.

Looking to channel your home redesign energy into your bedroom?

Be open to the possibilities of paint

You don’t need to be a Picasso to paint your home, nor do you need to splurge on a decorating team to get elbows deep for you. If you’re a DIY novice, enlist the help of a friend or partner and tackle the task together. Make the job uncomplicated; paint a feature wall, the skirting boards, or even a two-tone wall. If you’re feeling confident enough then you could undertake the ‘fifth wall’ – the ceiling! A fresh lick of paint can have transformative effects on the rest of the room.

Bevel king-size bed | Hercules side table

Upcycle

Similarly, you can repaint ageing but beloved pieces of furniture to give them a new lease of life. Reinvigorate their original coat or try a whole new shade to totally reinvent the piece.

You can also use new materials to recover upholstery that you’ve become a bit bored of. This technique requires precision, but works a treat on sofas, armchairs or accent chairs. If you don’t have much experience, try practising by making new cushion covers with eye-catching prints or textural materials like velvet.

Check out our living room ideas on a budget for more expert home style advice that won’t break the bank.

Refresh soft furnishings

Speaking of soft furnishings, updating yours is not only incredibly easy, but it’s a cheap update in the grand scheme of things. For example, a new area rug can shake up the whole room’s appearance and introduce a refreshed colour palette for you to bounce off. Alternatively, you can craft your own dining table runner with spare fabrics that you might have lying around.

Orrick king-size bed | St. Ives bedside table

Tap into tile

You don’t need to retile the entirety of your kitchen or bathroom – you could make a feature of the backsplashes around the hob or sink, or make the area around the shower a prime focus. Either way, refurbishments like these could be the small refreshes that your home is crying out for.

If you’re not feeling that brave, then tile paint could be a simpler alternative to revamping your space.

If you want some home design tips specific for your budget, check out the blog where we breakdown what’s realistically possible for what you want to spend.

Renovate your windows

Unsightly curtains can have a hugely unpleasant effect on an otherwise lovely interior design scheme. Maybe you’ve always wanted to change yours; if you’ve got a little more room in your budget, you might want to install French shutters, a fresh set of blinds or billowing curtains. If you’ve got less cash to work with, even a new trim can completely alter the appearance of curtains.

DIY displays

Original art and prints – though an incredible addition to any room – are often not very budget-friendly. Instead, frame old magazine covers for your bathroom or last year’s calendar pages in the hallway, giving paper destined for the recycling bin a new use. Otherwise, give your kids’ artwork pride of place over the dining room table or have family, friends and guests contribute to a hilarious Polaroid wall.

Brindle small sideboard

Don’t forget the details

Even slighter changes come in the form of replacing handles on cupboards and drawers – this is a great way to personalise key features of your home without making any drastic updates. You can also swap out lampshades for a similar effect. You’ll be surprised how minor details can give your decor a whole new look.

Hopefully you enjoyed our tips, and are ready to give your home a well-needed thrifty uplift! And make sure to show us your new home updates over on Instagram, using #OakFurnitureland.

The post Home decor updates on a budget appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.

Nature-inspired Christmas wreath

Let nature inspire your wreath this season and adorn your door with pieces of flora of all different types. The ivy and pine cones form a rustic base to this piece while dried oranges, cinnamon sticks and straw foliage add pops of colour.

@sarahhillflowers

Minimalist Christmas wreath

If you’re after a more minimalist look, strip things back to just the dark green foliage. This festive flourish of eucalyptus is simple and elegant and provides a refreshing minty aroma every time the door is swung. The simple gold bow adds that extra sparkle while still maintaining a modest look.

@jasperandquinn_

White and gold Christmas colours

A traditional wreath not quite your style? Push the boundaries this Christmas and opt for something a little different. The combination of white foliage and metallic gold creates a striking piece that’s sure to draw people’s attention. While not the classic green and red we all associate with the season, these colours definitely have us dreaming of a white Christmas.

@lucyohcreations

Traditional Christmas wreath

For many, sticking to tradition is a way to make it truly feel like Christmas every year. The dark green leaves and pops of red berries make this a truly classic Christmas wreath and provide a stunning piece for your front door.

@hardingandbloom

Rustic-style Christmas wreath

If your home follows a more rustic style, a twig wreath is the perfect option. This design emulates warmth and nature, the hanging ferns and fabric bow provide a stunning alternative to the traditional, neat Christmas wreath.

@huntandgatherfloral

Alternative places to hang wreaths

Thinking past your front door? There are several places where you can hang your Christmas wreath indoors so you can enjoy its festivity from inside your home.

Above your mantelpiece

Hanging a wreath above your mantelpiece can create a striking look in the centre of your living room. An array of other Christmas decorations can nestle either side of your wreath, think rustic wooden trees and little nativity figures for a truly festive scene.

In your hallway

Welcome guests into your home by creating a festive hallway. Hang your wreath above your coat rack or set it on a console table next to Christmas spiced candles or fragrance sticks. If you’re looking to change up your hallway this season why not browse our range of console tables or hallway storage options?

Above your bed

When it comes to seasonal decorations, the bedroom often gets forgotten in favour of other more social rooms. Bring Christmas to every room of the house and hang a wreath above your bed or attach it to your bed board. Note: for a bedroom wreath, be careful not to use any glitters or dry wood that might flake while sleeping.

On the back of dining chairs

Smaller wreaths can be hung on the back of dining chairs to create the perfect setting for your Christmas meal. Similarly, you could choose a statement wreath centerpiece for your dining table to bring festivity to every meal this December.

Wreath: @ahimsa_design

We’d love to see which wreath style you go for and where you put it in your home. Share your Christmas pics by tagging us at #OakFurnitureland on Instagram.

The post Christmas wreath ideas appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.

‘Here, I have dressed my St. Ives dining table formally for Christmas dinner. I used a crisp white table cloth as a base to set off the tableware and laid out all of the cutlery and glasses which will be used. I placed evergreen branches down the centre of the table to add some colour and baubles which complement those in the Christmas tree. My St. Ives dresser is fully stocked ready for the big day.’

‘During Christmas dinner I will play some carols and light candles to increase the festive atmosphere. We even have a pass the parcel game around the table!’

‘The living room has a winter wonderland theme, complete with my grandmother’s sleigh from when she was a child. The light tones perfectly complement my Chelsea sofas and Jasmine chair. All of the action on Christmas Day happens in this room, as it is where Santa delivers the presents once he has come down the chimney. The chaise end of the Chelsea corner sofa is the perfect spot to put your feet up and relax after dinner and have a snooze.’

‘I have gone with a classic gold and green theme in the hallway as the colours complement the timeless elegance of the Shay range. With the hallway being the first room guests enter, I will light my favourite festive scented candle for full affect.’

My top 5 tips for creating a Christmas atmosphere

1. Light a festive candle

Smells can evoke memories and emotions, and nothing says Christmas more than cinnamon, clove, fig and chestnut.

2. Play Christmas music

Whether it’s carols, or a 70s classics, putting some Christmas tunes is guaranteed to make you feel as festive as possible.

3. Watch a Christmas film

My favourite is Miracle on 34th Street – I have always wanted a sign in my window saying ‘this house believes’.

4. Enjoy time with your family

Lazy days, pyjama days, baking days – use the Christmas break to make memories with those you love.

5. Have fun decorating your tree

Whether real or faux, themed or not, it wouldn’t be Christmas without a tree twinkling away.

Favourite thing about Christmas

Spending the time with my loved ones. We lead such busy lives it’s nice to have the time to bake, play games, watch a film, go for a walk.

Favourite Christmas bake: Gingerbread men

Ingredients

225g plain flour, plus extra for dusting
½ tsp salt
2 tsp bicarbonate of soda
1 heaped tsp ground ginger
½ tsp cinnamon
50g unsalted butter
100g soft brown sugar
100g golden syrup

Method

STEP 1
Heat oven to 190C/170C fan/gas 5 and line a baking tray with baking parchment. Sieve the flour, salt, bicarb, ginger and cinnamon into a large bowl. Heat the butter, sugar and syrup until dissolved. Leave the sugar mixture to cool slightly, then mix into the dry ingredients to form a dough. Chill the dough in the fridge for 30 mins.

STEP 2
On a surface lightly dusted with flour, roll out the dough to a ¼-inch thickness. Stamp out the gingerbread men shapes with a cutter, then re-roll any off-cuts and repeat. Place your gingerbread shapes on the lined trays, allowing space for them to spread. Cook for 10-15 mins, then remove from the oven and leave to cool.

Favourite Christmas song

For me it has to be ‘All I Want for Christmas‘ by Mariah Carey.

We’d love to see how you style your homes for Christmas. Tag us at #OakFurnitureland on Instagram.

And if you want to shop the Oak Furnitureland pieces from Mrs Roobottom‘s home, check out our Shay range, our Jasmine chair and our selection of chaise sofas.

The post Mrs Roobottom’s Christmas home tour appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.