What about the walls?

The simple TV unit can consume significant floor space while leaving the wall area around the Television unused. Think about going up and out, consider your wall space as an option for storage. There are a range of different wall units available on the market that offer both open and concealed storage options while maximising wall space rather than floor space with many integrating your television into them also. If you are able to add a bit of colour into them these wall units are also great as a feature wall.

Keep in mind other walls around the house, these could prove to be quite useful as well. Hang cabinets above your desk for your files, use floating shelves above your sofa or bed to make a wonderful display or use bookcases or room dividers in large open spaces to create more intimate spaces but also create vertical storage in the middle of the room.

 Think a little unconventionally….

Do you have loads of books or a collection of things that you want to display? Consider a bookcase behind your bed or dining table with the upper shelves providing easy access to everyday items while using the concealed shelves to store items that you need to access rarely. The effect will also be that of a practical feature wall, displaying your favourite items.

 Awkward Space?

If you are finding it hard to fit a traditional storage unit on a small wall or near a corner use a couple of floating shelves or hanging cabinets instead to provide the storage you need without overwhelming the space. A small entry hall could have a couple of hanging cabinets hung at desk height, essentially becoming an entry console with cupboard storage, the fact that they are wall mounted will mean it does not look too crowded. While floating shelves in that unused corner creates an instant bookshelf, a beautiful feature in itself and very handy if your space is too small for a larger bookcase.

(Main Image Source:  Poliform Skip Wall Unit)

This table is available from Fanuli Furniture, click here for more information

Image: Fanuli

The Prime Time chair is available from Great Dane

Click here for more information on the Prime Time Chair

Image: Great Dane

To protect Fabric from Fading:

• If sunlight is an issue for you, that is if your sofa or fabric furniture will be exposed to direct sunlight select a fabric that is more resistant to fading, or a fabric that has been treated to protect it.
• For fabric sofas, regularly rotate and turn the cushions so they wear and fade evenly
• Use blinds & curtains to protect fabric furniture from sunlight in the harshest hours

Cleaning your Fabric Furniture:

• Avoid harsh brushing and be aware of sharp objects (jewellery, toys & buckles) as they could cause snagging
• Regularly remove dust from the fabric furniture using the appropriate attachment on your vacuum cleaner
• Always test cleaning methods and products in an inconspicuous spot before proceeding with the whole sofa or a spot clean & allow some time to ensure the cleaning method does not cause discolouration
• Removable covers can be taken off and washed or dry cleaned (refer to the fabrics specific washing instructions)
• All fabrics will have unique properties & cleaning methods, always check the care labels and always follow the specific care instructions for your fabric

Maintaining your Fabric Furniture:

• If a thread comes loose on a fabric upholstered piece of furniture always use scissors to cut it off, never pull it
• Fabric can stretch over time, to keep your sofa looking ‘plump’ open the zipper and use your hands to redistribute the feathers or down filling
• If your fabric furniture is looking tatty or in need of replacing, consider having the upholstery replaced if the internal structure is still sound

Main Image: Photostock

The furniture in the Living room is a blend of contemporary and vintage finds, and manages to be be contemporary, inviting & comfortable and relaxed all at once.  The light grey upholstery and the slimness of the sofa’s structure gives it a modern edge, the soft cushions are inviting though; the armchairs have a vintage feel and the upholstery ties it in with the sofa creating a lovely setting.  The prints on the wall are simple with the golden images tying into the overall golden tone in the room created by the wallpaper and the timber elements.  The rug adds a quirky playfulness that gives the formal arrangement of the armchairs and sofa are more relaxed vibe, and the lamp gives it a design edge, as well as linking the living room to the dining room by complementing the black pendant.

In the dining room, a relaxed almost beachy vibe has been created with the selection of some classic design pieces, the Carl Hanson table and Hans Wegner ‘Wishbone’ chairs, the warm honey hued timber ties in the cream of the storage cupboards and the pot plants on the table give it that beachy vibe.  The black pendant is hung higher then normal, it works beautifully with the black on the seat of the dining chairs.

The double dresser in the bedroom is once again a simple and classic choice, the absence of handles give it a clean look, yet the warm timber finish ensure it is not too mod.  Its is simply accessorised with a funky lamp, some books and fresh flowers, the dramatic black print centered above it provides a strong focal point, as it deviates from the neutral palette.

The bedroom once again is simple, with light greys keeping the look clean and modern, yet the layering of textures on the wall, the fabric bed, the quilt and the chunky knitted ottomans keep it interesting and inviting.

Photography: Michael Graydon

Design: Ryan Martin and Amy Kent of Croma Design

Source: Style at Home

GET THE LOOK:

Clockwise from Top Left:

- Hilton Sofa – Freedom

- Fish Canvas – Domayne

- Archie Armchair – Orson & Blake

- Arc Timber Table – Design Warehouse

- Alby Ottomans – Orson & Blake

- Linea Fabric Bed – Beyond Furniture

- Fontana Lamp – Beyond Furniture

- Vintage Teak Dresser – Orson & Blake

- Replica Wishbone Chair – Design Warehouse

- Beach Rd Coffee Table – Freedom

1. Size

The first thing to consider is how big it needs to be to cater for the number of people who will be regularly using it.  Consider how many people sit at it at once, then, if possible allow for two extra seats for guests.  Up to a 4 seater could be perfect for a small apartment, and for a family you might like to go up to a 6 or 8 seater.  Also consider how much space you will need for food or decorations on the table, if your family like to place large platters in the centre of the table for serving, a square or round table could cater to this nicely.

Also, very importantly, the size of the room, the table you select will obviously need to fit into the room, and have enough space around it for people to get in and out of their chairs, and move around.  You should allow roughly 50cm around the table for a person seated in the chair, and an additional 40cm or more behind that to allow people to get in and out of their chairs and move around the table.  A good way of working out the best size for your room is to measure it out on the floor with masking tape or tea towels, mark out the dimensions you would like for the new table then check there is enough room to move around it.

2. Use

Each family will use their dining table in a unique way, perhaps it’s only used for formal dining, perhaps it doubles as a homework place or home office, or you may even host meetings at it if you work from home.  These factors will impact the type of table you choose, if you often have people working at it then a glass or hard poly may be a wise choice, as some timbers can be marked/indented easily from people writing on them.  If your family eats food that can penetrate and stain easily, then selecting a darker colour could disguise more and cause you to worry less.

3. Style & Look

When considering the style and look, consider the style of your house and room, and look for something that will complement it.  Dining tables come in a huge range of styles from very traditional right through to minimalist modern.  There are also many simple, modern styles finished in timber or glass that would sit comfortably in most homes, they are timeless designs that you will have for years regardless of trends.  The style of chairs you like should also be a consideration, if you already know what style of dining chairs you like, select a table that will complement it, if you are unsure, perhaps spend some time looking at chair styles before committing to a table.

4. Budget

When considering your budget for a new dining table, take into consideration the price of the chairs, it is normal to decide on the table first, yet the chairs are often the more expensive component, and if you have spent too much on the table, you will have to compromise on the chairs.  Consider your budget for the whole setting, then before committing to a dining table, have a rough idea of how much the chairs you like are so you don’t overspend on the table.

(Main Image Source:  Great Dane – Johansen Dining Table)

These chairs are available from Orson & Blake

Click here for more information on the Boston Directors Chair

Click here for more information on the OBC Saddle Directors Chair

Image: Orson & Blake

Purpose & Practicality

What is the unit for? Are you looking to accommodate media equipment or will it be more of a bookcase or display unit? Do you prefer open storage or do you need to be able to hide certain sections with doors or cupboards? Are you looking for a feature piece or will it be more practical, blending into its surrounds?

FEATURE & STORAGE: If you are after a feature piece, look for something that has a combination of display and storage sections. Taking full advantage of the height of a room will also make your feature wall unit stand out. Combining different materials adds interest and dimension to a wall unit and allows you to choose complementary colours or a pop of colour for a bit of fun.

TV & DISPLAY: If you want something that is all about the TV with some display items and storage to hide away DVDs, then look for something that makes a feature of the TV by wall- mounting it or surrounding it with simple floating shelves for display. It’s good to keep the TV anchored by low line TV benches and balanced by wall-mounted hanging cabinets. This look works best for fuss-free, contemporary homes.

TV & STORAGE & DISPLAY: If you are after a wall unit that does a bit of everything, look for one that incorporates a generous TV and media component storage with great book and display storage. A great option is if you can find a wall unit that has the choice to hide all the media components away behind sliding doors. This option is particularly great for lounge rooms that are multi-purpose as it can change the look of the room just by sliding one or more doors.

Wall-mounted & Free-standing

A lot of wall units are wall-mounted so it is important to decide if this is something you want to do or if you are renting or like to have the flexibility to move your furniture around, look for free standing options. If you do find a wall-mounted design that you love but you need it to be free standing, always ask if there are other similar options as there usually are.

Quick Tips for Shopping for Wall Units

- Make a list of features the wall-unit must have to work in your space.

- Be sure of your dimensions; measure out your wall and jot down the largest and the smallest you are willing to work with to give yourself some flexibility with different designs.

- Know the style you are looking for and what will work with your current furniture

- If you are incorporating your TV into the wall-unit, make sure you have its dimensions with you too.

- Work out how much storage vs. display area you need.

- Decide whether you want your wall-unit to be wall-mounted or free-standing. And remember, if you find something that is wall-mounted, don’t forget to ask if there is a similar free-standing options.

- Always ask if a professional installation of the wall unit is available as it is well worth it.

- Take colour samples of the wall, and photographs of the room with you when you go, so you can match up colours right away.

(Main Image Source:  SydneySide – Wall-unit)

The Chaise sofa is compact, yet perfect for two people, with an extra guest chair off to the side, the upholstery is a warm and textured grey green, offset by the modern silver sculpture like coffee table pieces.  The rustic styled timber dining table adds charm and character and it speaks to the bedhead in the adjoining bedroom. The simple side table is compact and co-ordinates well with the bookcase, accessories have been left extremely minimal with the books providing the bulk of the colour in the room.

The bedroom is simple and serene due to the largely white colour palette, texture is brought in through the detail of the rug and the quilt & pillows.  The headboard and the timber detail on the side tables are the focal point, balancing out the contemporary & minimalist style architecture of the room, it brings texture & character without contradicting with the modern room; the predominantly white accessories give the room an elegance and the asymmetry of the prints lend it a casualness.

In a sunny corner of the bedroom is a comfy reading chair, once again the furniture selection featured timber and a woven style seat, accessorised with textural and warm cushions & throws.  The quirky accessories in this corner add intrigue and colour, yet they are still simple shapes and simply styled.  The yellow print on the wall is a bold hit of colour in an otherwise very neutral palette, and the vase is simply displayed on the floor along with a stack of books.  The pendants help create the feel of this corner being its only little room, and add a touch of glamour, their simple round forms ensure they are not too fussy.

Photographer: Trevor Tondro

Design: Kajsa Krause

Source: NY Times, found via Japanaese Trash

GET THE LOOK:

Clockwise from top left:

- Skip Wall Unit – Poliform

- Victor Side Table – Poliform

- Persisk Gabbeh Rug – Ikea

- Hilton Sofa – Freedom

- Replica PK22 Lounge Chair – Life Interiors

- Yellow Horizon Canvas – Beyond Furniture

- Square Side Table – Polifom

- Industrial Canvas – Freedom

- Mandal Headboard – Ikea

Due to its feather fibre seat and back cushions the Henry sofa has an appealing nature with its nicely softened edges. As it also boasts many different seating combinations you are sure to find the colour and size that is right for your space.

This sofa is available from Contents International, click here for more information.