1. Sophisticated styling

Bentley dining table | Kingham chairs | Maze rug

Forget throwaway decorations, Halloween can still look elegant. Style your dining table or coffee table with pumpkins in varying sizes and shades, from peach and orange to deep greens. Add a delicate string of fairy lights across a dresser, sideboard, or console table to create a soft, inviting glow. The result is a look that feels timeless, carrying your home seamlessly through autumn.

Style tip: Mix real pumpkins with velvet or ceramic ones for added texture and re-use them year after year.

2. Seasonal delights

Malvern sofa | @thegardenersnest

If you prefer subtle touches, let nature lead the way. Arrange mini pumpkins (munchkins) with autumn foliage in a ceramic vase, and finish with a pumpkin spice-scented candle to set the mood.

Canterbury sideboard | @mrsh_at_bears_cottage

Swap in burnt orange velvet cushions or foliage-inspired prints on your Malvern sofa or armchair and layer blankets to create a cosy spot for scary movie marathons. It’s an easy way to bring the season indoors while keeping the mood sophisticated.

Style tip: Choose cushions in warm ochre, rust, or deep green to instantly shift your living room into autumn mode.

3. Dinner party decor

Stephanie Frey | Shutterstock.com

Spooky season is the perfect excuse to host a sophisticated dinner party. Set the scene with a chic Halloween-inspired tablescape featuring cream or muted-toned pumpkins, vintage-style glassware, and natural linen napkins. A neutral palette keeps the look refined, while clusters of candles bring warmth and atmosphere. And the finishing touch? Fancy dress, of course, because even the most elegant soirée deserves a playful twist.

Kingham chairs | @the_house_with_the_whitestairs

Style tip: Layer your table with candles of varying heights to create an enchanting, flickering glow.

4. Moody corners

Noah chest of drawers | Harris chair | Elba side table

For a more atmospheric take, create little Halloween “moments” around your home. Think tapered candles in brass holders to elevate dark corners, dried autumnal branches in ceramic vases to catch the eye, and rich throws draped over accent chairs for dramatic texture. These opulent touches offer a seasonal edge without going over the top.

Style tip: Choose candles in scents like sandalwood, clove, or patchouli to create a beautiful ambience.

5. Statement mirror magic

Payton mirror | @budgethomeinterior_

If you have a statement mirror, now’s the time to let it shine. Frame it with eucalyptus, ivy garlands, or dried flowers intertwined with warm fairy lights, then place a cluster of pumpkins at the base. The reflection doubles the impact, creating an enchanting display that’s perfect for greeting guests or snapping seasonal photos.

Style tip: Hang fairy lights behind your mirror for an instant magical glow that feels both cosy and dramatic.

Which look would you choose for your home this Halloween, subtle and seasonal, dramatic and moody, or elegant and entertaining? We’d love to see your take! Share your Halloween style with us on Instagram or TikTok using #OakFurnitureland #GrowYourHome.

The post 5 grown-up Halloween decor ideas appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.

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

Glamorous neutrals

Otto sideboard | Otto dining table set

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

Modern country style

Brompton small sideboard | @ourhomeinsuffolk

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

Rustic decor

Henley bedside table | @thestanleydiary

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

Mid-century minimalism

Oliver dining table set | @homebyvaida

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

Bohemian spirit

Parquet chest of drawers | Parquet bedside table | @kingsgate_makenzie

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

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

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

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

Which rooms work best with yellow?

Morgan sofa | @poursomecolouronme

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

Using yellow in the living room

Oliver sideboard | Harris chair

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

Hope wall art | @nouk.home

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

Inca corner sofa | @morkily

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

Using yellow in a hallway

Original Rustic console table | @stylishhomesearch

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

Using yellow in the bedroom

Parquet bedside table | @home_of_roberts

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

Copenhagen chest of drawers | @renovating_wynd_house

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

Bevel bedside table | @myhomeat122

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

Using yellow in the dining room

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

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

Parquet dining table | @thelightshesees

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

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

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

Discover the similarities

Evie loveseat

When it comes to living room seating, all our sizes feature the same high-quality details. We use hardwood in the frame and feet to provide a solid foundation for our sofas and loveseats.

We offer styles to suit any home, all made from durable and cosy fabrics or quality leather. Many of our loveseats and sofas also include scatter cushions for added style and comfort.

So, what’s the difference?

Malvern sofa | @pretty_poplar

The only technical difference between a sofa and a loveseat is the size. Both a 2 seater sofa and a loveseat are designed for two people but are proportioned slightly differently. Loveseats tend to be smaller, with ours ranging from 117cm to 162cm in width, while our 2-seater sofas start from 155cm for our most compact styles and go up to 195cm. The best way to choose between them is to look at the measurements of your room and select the size that works best.

Styling your furniture

Dewsbury loveseat | Burleigh side table | Burleigh sideboard

While offering space for two people to curl up together, loveseats also make an ideal cosy spot for one. Add tactile throws and textured cushions to maximise the comfort factor.

Place yours in the corner of a room to create a spacious reading nook, and pair it with a nest of tables or a side table as a handy perch for drinks and snacks.

Thornley 2 seater sofa | Thornley footstool | Durham nest of tables | Durham tallboy | Clouds metallic rug

Our 2 seater sofas are ideal for smaller multipurpose spaces such as playrooms, kitchen diners, or home offices. Alternatively, pair your sofa with a coordinating piece from the same range to create a complete living room suite.

Discover our complete range of loveseats and browse our selection of sofas to find the perfect fit for your home, whatever your needs, budget, or taste. We’d love to see how you style your sofas and loveseats. Tag us at #OakFurnitureland #GrowYourHome on Instagram to share your latest photos.

Lead image credit: @barn_owls_and_butterflies

The post What’s the difference between a loveseat and a 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.

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.

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.

Whether you’re looking for something bold to add colour to a room, a textural design to lift a neutral space or just wondering how big you should go, here are some tips to make it a little easier when the time comes to choosing the right rug for your home.

Types of rug

The first thing to consider is the type of rug that’s right for you. You’ll need to think about where the rug will be used so you can determine whether you should go for a low-pile or high-pile style.

Low pile rugs

Low-pile rugs are great for busy areas of your home that get a lot of foot traffic, such as hallways or living rooms, as they will stand up to wear and tear better. A good underlay will make low-pile rugs more comfortable for sitting on – ideal if you’ve got young kids who will be playing on the floor.

Placing a rug under dining tables is a simple way to zone your dining space. Low-pile rugs are best here to allow dining chairs to move in and out freely, plus you can vacuum up crumbs easily.

High pile rugs

Cosy high-pile rugs, such as our Shaggy or Dakota designs, are ideal for low-traffic areas of the home such as bedrooms. And, they’re lovely to sink your toes into when you get up in the morning.

If you have wooden or tiled flooring, shaggy rugs introduce instant texture that brings added comfort to your home. These plush, fluffy designs create a luxurious finish that really ups the cosy factor in any space.

What size should you go for?

The best way to decide this is to measure out the area you want to cover. There should be at least a foot or two of visible flooring around the room. This will give you an idea of the size you’ll need before you set out to find your dream rug.

Our rugs come in three different sizes to offer plenty of options to suit your space. In a living area, generally speaking, all the front legs of the furniture should sit upon the rugs. Stay away from postage-stamp size rugs right under the coffee table as it will make your room look smaller.

At the same time, you don’t want to waste a lot of money buying a large rug that sits fully underneath the furniture as you’ll essentially be paying for a rug that you won’t even see. And if it’s in front of a sofa, then it should run the same or slightly wider than the width of the sofa.

Rugs for other rooms

In a dining room, the rug should be large enough so that when you pull out your chair, the chair remains on the rug. In most cases, you’ll also want to match the shape of your rug with the shape of your table, so rectangular tables suit rectangular rugs and round tables suit round rugs.

In a bedroom, you might want to consider two smaller rugs on each side of the bed or one that’s large enough to cover two-thirds from underneath the bed and at least a few feet on either side of the bed and in front of it.

What material should you choose?

Choose from a range of different materials depending on your needs and budget. Our Kennedy, Mayfair and Ohio rugs are hand-tufted and made from 100% wool to offer a naturally luxurious finish.

We also have a range of polyester rugs – designed to be hard-wearing and practical for every home. Be sure to utilise an underlay to make thinner rugs more comfortable underfoot. On the upside, they’re normally less expensive than wool rugs so if you tend to change the style of your room frequently it may make more sense to buy something you won’t feel guilty replacing every few years.

Finally, natural materials, like jute rugs, are great for high-traffic areas although less comfortable underfoot than wool or cotton rugs. However, they are very practical and don’t require as much care. Simply beating the rug outdoors will loosen any dust and debris and keep it looking great for years.

Remember there are never any hard and fast rules when it comes to decorating. The most important thing is to buy what you know you will love for years to come. Find the perfect rug for your home by shopping our latest rug collections. We’d love to see how you’ve styled rugs with your Oak Furnitureland pieces at home. Tag us at #OakFurnitureland and #GrowYourHome on Instagram.

The post How to choose a rug appeared first on Oak Furnitureland Blog.

Dining room inspiration

Parquet large sideboard | @roseontherow

The large sideboard is a winning storage piece for any room in the home but works particularly well in dining spaces or open-plan kitchens. Take a cue from @roseontherow who complements this stunning piece with a gallery wall of bold prints, plants and retro accessories, to bring an opulent, warm and homely feel to her dining room.

Parquet sideboard | @willowandmaine

Perfect for storing crockery, glassware, cutlery and table linens, the versatile Parquet sideboard is the ideal addition to a dining room. Teamed with inky blue walls and accents of brushed gold, it creates a grown-up dining space that’s crying out for entertaining.

Living room decor tips

Parquet sideboard | @insidenumber.3

Carve out a cosy reading nook with a comfortable armchair and our Parquet small sideboard. Ideal for underused spaces that need a bit of love, it’s the perfect combo for style, comfort and practicality.

Parquet large sideboard | @yarrowlovetofalcon

Not only are our sideboards practical, but they also offer endless styling potential. Hang your favourite photos or a mirror above and then decorate the top with a lamp, greenery and beautiful objects that create a beautiful display.

Parquet TV corner cabinet | Parquet small bookcase | @casaoldcorn

Combine pieces from the same range to create a cohesive scheme while using colour and texture to stop the look from feeling too uniform. Our TV and bookcase anchor the space in this period living room while the art, light installation and quirky details add personality.

Parquet sideboard | @at_the_mcgillens

Embrace biophilic design to bring the outdoors in. We love how @at_the_mcgillens has transformed their Parquet sideboard into a green-fingered display that contrasts perfectly against the warm wood tones.

Parquet coffee table | @laura.elizabeth_

Blue velvet sofas and Parquet are a winning combination as demonstrated by @laura.elizabeth_’s lovely living room. The coffee table has handy in-built storage and space to style with all your favourite details such as magazines, candles and beautiful blooms.

Bedroom inspiration

Parquet bedside table | @thelightshesees

Transform your bedside table into a beautiful vignette with fresh blooms. Easy to create yet offering maximum impact, it’s a welcome change from a cluttered bedside table that echoes boutique hotel chic. Choose flowers that tie in with the colours in your bedroom to create a soothing palette.

Parquet bed | @our_little_devon_reno

Lay the foundations for peaceful slumber with our Parquet bed. Paired with crisp white walls and bedding, it adds a subtle warmth further enhanced with plants and boho-inspired design details.

Parquet console table | @new_build_forever_home

Create a dedicated spot for getting ready in the morning and evening with our Parquet console table. More compact than the dressing table from the same range, this is a great multifunctional piece that can be moved around the home as your needs change.

Parquet chest of drawers | @hoptroffhome

Whether you’re furnishing a room for a baby, a teen or anything in between, Parquet is a great choice for children’s bedrooms. It will grow with the child and adapt to their changing needs while offering a timeless design that’s built to last.

Home office ideas

Parquet desk | @hannahcoates.design

Practical and stylish, our Parquet desk is a great choice for a home office. This hard-working piece of furniture includes plenty of drawer space to keep all your essentials to hand while the generous top offers ample space for a laptop, monitor and keyboard.

Parquet bookcase | @black_cat_terrace

Whether you’ve got a dedicated home office or a shared area in a living room, a bookcase is an excellent addition to a workspace. Not only can you stack all your work-related reads together, but you can also personalise the shelves with photos, mementoes and candles. Plus, there’s also a handy drawer for paperwork.

Head to our website to discover the complete Parquet range. Plus, we’d love to see how you style your Parquet pieces. Share your home with us using #OakFurnitureland on Instagram.

The post Parquet inspiration for every room 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.

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