Where to hang art in your home

Avani Broadbeach 2 bedroom suite living kitchen

Posted: 24/09/2019

Want to know one of the best kept secrets about interior design? Where you position your art, of course! It may seem obvious…the most available bare wall. But it’s not quite as simple that. The art of hanging art takes a keen and experimental eye. Follow our room-by-room guide to get the best results in every space. Living room A natural choice for hanging art, particularly as it’s the room where you spend most of your time and welcome visitors into your home. The trick to making art work really well in your living room is to think big. Don’t choose something so small that it will get lost, particularly if you have oodles of wall space. Instead, measure carefully and supersize your art to create a feature piece in the room. Bedroom The bedroom is an ideal place to decorate as you wish; a space where you can let your personality shine! Choosing art for your bedroom is all about complementing the rest of your decor. It needs to work perfectly with the colour of your walls, bed linen, curtains and other soft furnishings. To encourage a restful sleep, choose artwork that is soothing in nature and speaks to your soul. Hallway Hanging art in your hallway not only defines the area as a clear entry point to your home, it also sets the scene for your décor style and helps to create a cohesive look. Remember the art you select for your hallway will be one of the first things visitors see when… Read More

Category: INTERIORS, LIFESTYLE

Tags: Art guide, Art home, Home wall art, How to hang art home, Interior design art

An interior designer’s dream: I-MADE at the Saatchi Gallery London

by James Banham

Posted: 22/09/2019

By many schools of thought, London’s the creative capital of the world. So, the Saatchi Gallery has brought many of the top designers and creatives in the world of interior design from Italy within its walls to celebrate I-MADE, London’s design exhibition; a first for the gallery. Designed by Guilio Cappellini the exhibition will not only present Italian innovation and craftsmanship but draw on the passion and traditions of iconic Italian brands and designers that are shaping the industry today. The whole exhibition has brought together over 50 exhibitors from all corners of Italy; from some of the most influential names in the world of design to emerging artisans. Each will display their works like pieces of art across the wondrous Saatchi Gallery during the annual London Design Festival. Check some out here or at the I-MADE website. On from 19-22 September.

Category: ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, INTERIORS, LIFESTYLE, LONDON

Tags: I Made London, i-made, IMADE, London design, London interior design

Styling by the experts: Sabrina Monte Carlo tells us how it’s done

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

If there’s one name to know in the world of styling, it’s Sabrina Monteleone-Øeino. The founder of Sabrina Monte Carlo styling, she’s got years of experience in the fine touch to presenting any space, which this year, is honing in on the finer side of things at the Monaco Yacht Show. They’ll be celebrating the launch of the brand’s e-shop; an exclusive distributor St Louis and Lalique’s newest crystal creations alongside Paola Lenti poufs and tables, all staged in a colourful, vibrant space. We spoke to Sabrina for some tips on how it’s done and why she does it! Why do you style? It just was always natural for me. I remember my parents left one week-end when I was thirteen and my sister and I painted a huge mural in our bedroom and redecorated it all ! What is the guiding principle that drives every styling decision you make? Optimise every corner – every space has to be useful. For example, for our Villa Riviera project we had an area above the garage with the most beautiful view of the garden. We never used it and now it is an outdoor gym! Is there a way people can easily replicate designs they like? Of course, just paint your wall a new colour, add some wallpaper, cushions, carpets – a small change goes a long way. Tell me how you approach each new project. I start with neutral colours and add touches of colour later on. Then I choose a theme, a story – don’t… Read More

Category: FEATURES, INTERIORS, LIFESTYLE

Tags: Monaco Yacht show, Sabrina Monte Carlo

Interior design must complement architecture: Here’s why

by THE F

Posted: 04/09/2019

Architecture is the design and construction of buildings. But it’s not just about making a building stand up to the weather or fit in with the local area; architecture is about responding to ideas and creating a bold structure that speaks to the lifestyle of its inhabitants. This is why some buildings stand the test of time where others fail after a mere decade or two! Interior design is also about responding to ideas but since you can repaint as often as you like, the world of interior design tends to shake things up more frequently. If you sign up to any magazine on interior design, you’ll see for yourself how colours come and go here as quickly as they do in the fashion world. And you’ll probably see the same colours cycling over and over again. So what is the key to great interior design and how can you use the architecture of your home to create a space that makes sense visually and practically? Design Interior and Exterior Together If luxury home builders could tell you one thing it’s this: you should always design your home in one go. Don’t build a shell to fill, think carefully about how each room will function from the kind of floor you want and where each plug socket will go to where you want to sit and watch TV or how you prefer to move about the kitchen. To create a home that truly sits comfortably with itself, its environment and its inhabitants, you must think… Read More

Category: INTERIORS

Common household hazards and how to deal with them

by THE F

Posted: 03/09/2019

Keeping the house in tip top condition is something which is always super important as a homeowner. When you buy your first home and start to look after it you will start to notice the same hazards and issues become common in the home. Today we want to talk about how to deal with some of the most common issues which affect us in our homes. Asbestos Although this is something no one wants to have in their homes, it is a common occurrence and unfortunately it can affect many of our homes. If your house is fairly old this is more likely and if you ever find traces you should get Rapid Asbestos Removal on the case right away and don’t try to solve it yourself. Fungus gnats If you have a lot of houseplants in the home you may have noticed now and again that there are some small fungus gnats which dominate the space around your home. These small black flies are harmless but they can be a nuisance and there are some simple ways that you can get rid of them by using sticky traps and also watering your plants with 1 part hydrogen peroxide to 4 parts water. Mites Storage mites, white mites and flour mites are a pest. They are common in the home and when you notice them on your surfaces it is very likely that they have already spread far and wide. Small pests like this will be hard to get rid of but with some clever… Read More

Category: INTERIORS, LIFESTYLE

Best new kitchen ideas this summer

by THE F

Posted: 02/09/2019

If you’re looking for some kitchen inspiration, here are two ideas… Red Kitchen Worktops – Looking For The Wow Factor? A red kitchen worktop is something you should consider if you want to have a bold and striking kitchen. More often than not, our kitchens are conservative in style. This is a room whereby we tend to stick to neutral colours and classic designs. However, it seems we are getting more experimental with our approach to decorating our kitchens or building kitchens when working with home builders, and more and more people are looking for fun colours and bold designs. Red worktops are ideal for those who want to add the wow factor to their kitchen. There are two ways for you to incorporate red effectively. You could go for a retro style kitchen or you could go for something modern and minimalistic with one pop of colour. If you go for the latter solution, your worktops are going to be the main attraction and the focal part of the room, and you will need to keep the rest simple and clean. Red is also a colour that is associated with passion, and thus if you are passionate about cooking, this is definitely a colour that is going to get you fired up and feeling enthusiastic. Red is a colour that motivates people to take action, which is perfect for a room that you are most likely to be doing something in. Red is also known to increase cravings for food. If you have a… Read More

Category: INTERIORS, LIFESTYLE

Tags: Best new kitchen ideas this summer, Kitchen ideas, kitchens

Essential spaces to upgrade to add value to your home

by THE F

Posted: 23/08/2019

Before you start planning a renovation project, there are some essential things to consider before you take the leap. It’s easy to get carried away trying to visualise what the overall outcome will look like. But, something to truly consider is whether it will add value in the long run. Unless you’re in your forever home, there’s a significant possibility that in time you will come to sell it. If that’s the case, then you’ll need to determine areas that will add the most value when its time to put it on the market. That doesn’t mean you can’t put your own spin on things because after all, it is your home. But thinking about its resale opportunity also puts you in good stead to get the most for your asset when it’s time to choose another property. To give you an idea of the type of things to consider when deciding to renovate, there are vital rooms and spaces that can help increase the value (sometimes significantly!). Take a look at the areas that may help you secure a good resale value. Revamp the kitchen The kitchen is the hub of the home, and it’s one of the first things people look at when they’re buying a property. New kitchens can be a hefty investment, so it’s worth considering whether you need a full upgrade or a partial revamp. It might be that the décor is looking a little tired so new tiles and a lick of paint might do the trick. However, if… Read More

Category: INTERIORS, LIFESTYLE

Tags: Essential space, Essential spaces to upgrade to add value to your home, home

7 easy ways to improve your bathroom

by THE F

Updated: 16/06/2023

If you’re the houseproud type, it’s likely that you are always looking for ways to jazz up your rooms! Your bathroom is much more than merely a function space, but a place where you can really unwind after a long hard day. Putting in time and money to make the most of your bathroom is so worthwhile to create a space that you really love. Let’s consider a few easy ways that you can improve your bathroom. Beautiful plants In the last few years, everyone wants their bathroom to have that spa-like quality, and why not? One of the best ways that you can create a spa-worthy look is to buy yourself some lovely plants for your bathroom. One excellent plant for a bathroom space is an Orchid; these plants will thrive in a high humidity environment and produce beautiful flowers. Place them on the windowsill so that they have enough sunlight and away you go! Another great plant for a bathroom space are Azaleas; these have gorgeous flowers in pink, purple or white. Again, these plants will flourish in your bathroom and give you an effortlessly elegant look. Having plants inside also helps to rid the air of toxins and serves as an eco-friendly decoration option. Be sure to check out the huge range of candles available at Saison. Add some candles Another surefire way to get that spa-quality is to add some candles to your bathroom. It’s a good idea to steer clear of traditional paraffin-based candles. These paraffin candles release chemicals which… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, INTERIORS

Tags: 7 easy ways to improve your bathroom, bathroom

Subtle way to give your home decor something special

by THE F

Posted: 01/08/2019

There are all kinds of things you can do to make your home decor look special – here, we’re going to focus on a few subtle changes you can make to give it that little extra ‘oomph’. The additions below aren’t all going to be immediately noticeable, but they will definitely change the vibe of the house overall. Take a look! Focus On Architectural Details Architectural details can make a huge difference to the look of your home. Details such as crown molding, wooden beams, hardwood floors, built-in bookshelves, and mosaic-tile backsplashes are all worth focusing on if you want to add a little something special. Do it one at a time and see how your home starts shaping up. You can go to acfloorsanding.com.au to get an idea of the sort of high quality flooring you should go for. It’s a good idea to splash out on the good stuff so that it lasts. Cheaper options won’t be as resistant to wear and use, so bear this in mind. 2. Add A Fireplace A fireplace will not be cheap or easy to add – this is why an electric fireplace might be better. Electric pieces take less effort to maintain, too. However, one of these can instantly make a room feel more cosy, whether you’re using it or not. It can also make a great statement piece. 3. Add A Simple Pop Of Colour A pop of colour is a really easy, quick, and simple way to give your home decor that little something… Read More

Category: INTERIORS, LIFESTYLE

Tags: Interiors blog, London blog, London interiors blog, Subtle way to give your home decor something special, THE F interiors, The F London

Don’t forget these essential home renovation needs

by THE F

Posted: 26/07/2019

When renovating our homes, we can often think of the finished project before anything else. Is this a problem? Not at all. Without a clear picture of what you hope to achieve, you’ll simply be painting in the dark until something comes together. Almost anyone can understand that this is a bad strategy. But when it comes to home renovation, all of the little complex tasks and decisions we must make can come on a little strong. Due to this overwhelming responsibility, you might forget some essential tasks. If this is your first time, you might not know they are needed. If you’re renovating your home, you have taken the effort to wish for a better place to live, to put your own stamp on your property, to implement your creative vision. That takes courage. It also means you shouldn’t have to be caught off-guard by something difficult. You deserve the best home renovation you can muster. So let us see how we can help you to that end, by reminding you of some excellent home renovation ‘musts’. Notifying Neighbors You truly have to ensure that your neighbors are up to speed with any and all home renovation changes you are planning to make, particularly if you’re going to be making a lot of noise and perhaps causing plenty of debris. It’s often the case that applying to your local housing authority is part of this, as it gives your neighbors time to gain further information or submit complaints if they want to. Simply talking… Read More

Category: INTERIORS, LIFESTYLE

Tags: home renovations, Renovations, THE F home renovation