Design Trends
Great coffee table books on interior design and furniture
As it’s Friday, we thought we deserved a little fun here at Danetti. We’ve been flicking through some stunning coffee table books and fantasising about our dream home – a contemporary haven filled with clean lines, cool European design and enormous sofas we think … Anyway, if you fancy doing the same, here are a few of the best coffee table books around at the moment. They look beautiful in themselves and will give you inspiration and knowledge galore.
House Beautiful Home Book
1. House Beautiful, Home Book, £22.60
WATERSTONES SAYS: With more than 500 stunning colour photographs and 464 pages of practical advice, The Home Book is the decorating guide you will turn to time and again, whether you’re planning a major renovation or making small changes.
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100 Houses coffee table book
2. 100 Houses, Modern Designs for Contemporary Living, £20.99
WATERSTONES SAYS: 100 Houses is a superb sourcebook of contemporary private houses of all styles in all parts of the world. From North America to Japan, and from London to Sydney, the diverse range of locations, architectural styles, scales and budgets brought together here represents the very best in domestic architecture of the past few years.
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Gentle Art of Domesticity coffee table book
3.The Gentle Art of Domesticity, £25
WATERSTONES SAYS: Jane Brocket delights in domesticity. Lively, curious and creative, she takes inspiration from her surroundings, from art, literature and nature and, through the gentle arts of knitting, baking and sewing, enhances her family life. From angora cushions to gingerbread houses, from crochet blankets to geometric quilts, she injects her home with colour, beauty and fun. The result is a gorgeous, unusual and inspirational commonplace book, full of wit, whimsy and stunning photographs.
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Table style coffee table book
4. Table Style: Elegant and Affordable ideas for decorating the table, £16.99
WATERSTONES SAYS: A beautifully decorated table can be the making of a meal, whether it’s a family supper or a dinner party. However, modern entertaining doesn’t require you to polish the silver spoons, starch the napkins or roll out the red carpet. In Table Style, Liz Belton and Rebecca Tanqueray will inspire you to make the most of what you’ve got, combining chain-store staples and vintage finds with decorative flourishes to create a stylish and welcoming table.
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And you’ll be needing somewhere to put your new books, so take a look at Danetti’s gorgeous range of coffee tables VIEW THE RANGE
Camber coffee table
Square glass coffee table
Milan coffee table
Tips and ideas for creating a great home office
Sweet office chair
Working from home can be bliss. No need for the daily commute (unless your home is extraordinarily large!), no office politics, no fighting over the last drop of milk for your coffee.
But many people who are lucky enough to work from home don’t get the best out of the situation because they never get around to creating an efficient and attractive environment for themselves to work in.
If your home is big enough, then it’s best to make your office in a spare room so you can close the door on it in the evenings and really take a break. Even if you can’t devote a whole room to the office, then there are clever ways of making sure that your office space and living space are clearly defined.
We’ve got a few suggestions for making your home office an oasis of calm and productivity, and furniture solutions that will enhance your home rather than ruin it …
COLOUR SCHEME
Yellow is energising
The psychology of colour is important in any room, but it’s perhaps most important of all in a home offices. You have to think about how you want to feel when you are in your office space: energised, productive, creative, yes, sleepy, cosy or stressed, no. Well there are ways of using colour to help you get into the right mood. For example, an office space painted or furnished in a stimulating yellow will keep its occupant upbeat and exhilarated, while a business-like deep blue colour scheme can aid concentration. Purple encourages creativity and lateral-thinking (although is also linked to day-dreaming). Red is at the bottom of list for office colour because it raises the heart rate and can become overpowering
The most important thing is that you chose the right colour for the type of work you do.
You should also consider the colours in the rest of the house. You may want your office space to stand out from the rest of the house so that you can keep the two areas separate in your mind, and there will be a clear cut-off when you finish your work for the day and go back to your ordinary living space.
FURNITURE
The main consideration is that your furniture is fit for purpose – that the desk and chair are a suitable height and that they allow you to sit and work in a way that’s not going to cause you aches and pains.
Empire office chair
The Sweet office chair from Danetti (above left) has an adjustable height so you can make sure you’re sat at the correct height for your desk and computer. It’s also great no matter what office colour scheme you go for – the back of the chair comes in seven eye-popping colours.
Other chairs from Danetti include the Empire chair (right), which comes in a wood veneer, or a leather upholstery finish in a variety of colours.
For desks, Danetti has a great variety, all of them contemporary and sophisticated looking.
You could go for something cool and futuristic like the Lenda curved table (below), which would be great for working at, and also for holding impromptu meetings with clients.
Lenda curved table
If you’re after something made from natural materials then Danetti also has a range of wooden tables and desks including this Spirit table (below), which can double up as a dining table if you’re entertaining.
This is one of the great things about home office furniture – if you buy multi-purpose items then you can also use them when you’re not working!
Spirit table
Spirit table
OTHER IDEAS
* Make sure you get the lighting right. A strong over head light is recommended if you need to hold meetings in your home office. If not, then task lighting is the most important. At Danetti we have a range of lighting solutions, including some great statement lighting to give your home office a creative and original look. You can see it here.
Santino four door sideboard
* Clutter can sap your energy, so invest in furniture that will keep everything accesible but out of view. The Santino four-door sideboard from Danetti (left), for example, is a really attractive and practical option. For other storage solutions, see our full range.
* Plants and other decorative accessories add life and personality to a home, office, so don’t be afraid to add a few quality shelves and display your possessions – just make sure that they improve the room, and never start looking like pointless clutter.
2010 interiors trend: canteen dining
Canteen-style dining is a big trend for 2010
If you’ve paid a visit to Wagamama recently, or one of the many noodle bars that have sprung up in the UK in the past few years, then you’ll know that bench seating and canteen-style tables can be very sociable.
Kimi bench and Emmett table, for canteen style dining at home
There’s something relaxed and communal feeling about friends and family sitting together on benches rather than on separate chairs. You can squash extra guests in with no hassle and children can easily sit with their parents without the need for an extra seat.
And bench seating really comes into its own at Christmas and Easter time when you have all the family round for lunch – there’s room for everyone, without the need for granddad to sit on a deckchair.
All in all, we’re hooked, and want to be able to introduce a little canteen-style dining to our own home.
Dorna trio stool. Bench seating
Here at Danetti we’ve got lots of products that fit the bill.
Tables include the glass Galaxy extending table (pictured below left) which is an incredible 2m 40cm wide when extended and the great Emmett dining table (above left) which easily seats 10 people.
For bench seating you’re spoiled for choice – we particularly love the Dorna stools (left) which can be joined together to form a bench and the simple Kimi bench (pictured above with the Emmett dining table).
Galaxy extending table
Creating a Minimalistic Home
Taken from the art form minimalism, the Japanese highly influenced the creation of minimalist design through their traditional style and architecture. The design is simple – reduce everything down to its necessary elements.
I wonder how many homes have unnecessary elements? With our hectic lives, I’m sure many of us have objects in the home that we just don’t need. But can you imagine the satisfaction and fulfilment if the only things on our kitchen work top where the bare essentials such as a kettle and toaster? How calm and relaxed would you feel knowing that everything was in it’s rightful place and the area looked clean, clear and spacious?
Well we can help. From the kitchen to the bedroom, in this guide we tell you all you need to know to help you create a minimalistic home. So you can feel less stressed and take pride in your home.
Start with Furniture
Always start planning your room with the key furniture items. Remember that less is more, so always try to see the functionality of the item. If it has no purpose and is never used then ask yourself is it truly essential. I would advise people to go for a few choice pieces of plain and simple furniture with subdued colours, decorative items beyond the essential can always be added later on. See the images below for achievable ideas to incorporate in your kitchen, dining room and living room.
Clear the Space
This means floors, surfaces and walls – make sure that all clutter is out of sight. Nothing should be stored on the floor or stacked. Try to buy furniture that has maximum storage. Surfaces should be removed of all items apart from one or two decorative accessories. Remember that when choosing wall art, it is important to only have one or two simple pieces as lots of pieces can make the space feel smaller. Always try and leave some walls bare.
Keep the Decor Plain
White is the classic minimalistic colour but other subdued earth colours can work too, such as blues, greens and browns. Avoid big and bold patterns such as flowers and checks as these can create visual clutter!
Add Simple Decorations for Interest
Style Glass Tealights
Block Vase
Trinity Tea Light Holders
Liven up any plain colours with simple decorations. A vase of flowers or a selection of candles can add interest without adding clutter.
And Finally….. Keep it up!
It is important you find a place for all clutter and remember where that place is. Every so often have a look at the space and see what items are unnecessary. Remember a minimalistic home is a less stressful one!
Choosing the Right Colour Scheme
I know what you are going to say “where do I start?â€. When the time comes to decorate we all know the daunting feeling we get when we see that blank canvas. Deciding on the right colour scheme for your room can be as important as choosing the right furniture. Colour stimulates the mind as well as our emotions, so here’s our guide to help make that perfect choice!
Cool Colours
Cool colours are said to be the hues from blue green through blue violet. These colours are best used when you want to create a calming and relaxing atmosphere.
Blue
Blue is favourite for creating calmness, peace and tranquillity. It is a popular colour for many rooms due to the fact it can go with both traditional and modern styles. Vintage styles can be created using blue with white a floral prints. Contemporary styles can be created using varied tone of blue with fresh whites and pale woods. Shades of blue work well with pastel colours especially soft apple greens. Blue with Yellow is a great combination for creating a sunny Mediterranean style.
Green
Green is the colour used to symbolize nature, balance, harmony and positivity. It creates a relaxing atmosphere when used in various tones. Team with pastels and neutrals to create a contemporary look in a living room or with cream for a country cottage look in a kitchen/breakfast room. Adding black and white to green can create an Art Deco look or why not be bold and try a retro theme with lime green for something a little different.
Purple
Most popularly used in bedrooms, purple is ideal for creating tranquility and best in the home when balanced with whites and pastels. It
Ultra Modern Designer Bar Stools
Planning will pay off:
With so many modern bar stools on offer you are going to be absolutely spoilt for choice as to which one to get and that’s why it is a good idea to form an idea in you head of what you are after before you start browsing. Think about the amount of space you have available and maybe measure it, think about your budget and also what you will be using your new stool for. What interior style are you aiming for?
Perhaps contemplate the colour scheme in the room you are going to put your modern bar stools in. Are you going to go for the coordinated matching accessory look, or do you want a mismatched, slightly oddball effect?
One of the hot styles in all the interior magazines at the moment is based on placing brightly coloured furniture in plain surroundings. This means that the furniture becomes a colourful focal point of the room and grabs the attention of curious eyes. The Mirage bar stool is a great example of a bold statement peice that will do exactly that for any room.
The different types of Modern bar stools:
It is also probably a good idea to think about what kind of stool you would like. There are various models of stool available but most people are not familiar with the language and terminology of stools!
Would you like something like a fixed stool, which is non-adjustable and is a simple set height and angle, or would you prefer the versatility and flexibility of a gas lift stool, which allows you to move the stool up and down in varying increments?
Design Vs Functionality:
The Grayson Bar Stool
Whilst beautiful objects will always be pleasing to the eye most people find that when it comes to modern bar stools they have to reach a compromise between what looks aesthetically good and what will be most efficient. Luckily Danetti.com has made that compromise for you so you will only find stools that are both functional and stylish, not one or the other, as the two needn’t be mutually exclusive.
If you can’t resist the clean lines and fluid curves of designer furniture then you won’t be disappointed by our wide selection of wood, leather and chrome stools . Have a look at the architectural, linear beauty of the Orla Bar Stool which is available in 14 different colours. Also check out the delicious Elma Bar Stool, with its curvy form its about as sexy as modern bar stools get.
The issue of functionality seems to be particularly important to people who have children and are purchasing designer furniture for their home, which is perfectly understandable. Kids can be messy and you don’t want finger paint or mud all over a surface that you can’t clean. In this case, its wise to go for a stool like the Grayson Bar Stool which is resilient and hard wearing plus it is easy to clean.
Industrial Modern Designer Bar Stools
Sturdy modern bar stools are the ideal seating for commercial use in places like restaurants, bars, hairdressers or even in members clubs. Choose the right sought of designer bar stool and you’ll be able to transform a tired looking space into something really quite special.
Retro Chic:
The Ruiz Bar Stool
Furniture that is going to be used in a commercial or industrial environment has to posses different qualities to that which is used in the home. It must be stain resistant, durable, and of course comfortable but that doesn’t mean it should be lacking in style. Take the Ruiz bar stool for example, the base is made from long-lasting chrome and the round backless seat comes in either cream or red. It’s a cool take on a piece of classic retro design. Plus because the seat is made from sumptuous faux leather, it can be wiped down and cleaned in a matter of seconds.
Affordable But Attractive:
There are so many modern bar stools on the market that finding one that is in your price range and also exactly what you have had in your minds eye won’t be too hard. Whilst the stunning aesthetics of modern bar stools are sometimes reflected in the price, there are also many affordable but eye catching designs out there. The Grayson bar stool, sums this philosophy up perfectly with it’s stunning long legged metal frame and simple square regenerated leather seat. It’s design reflects the sleek and uber-modern interiors that have proved to be so popular over the last year or two. This kind of seat, over other kinds of modern bar stools, is ideal for placing in already minimalist spaces.
Stand Out Statement Pieces:
The Somen Bar Stool
If you want something trendy and original, then again you won’t be limited in choice. With new designers graduating every year there is a huge selection of individual looking stools available. A word of warning though, really think about how the stool you purchase is going to work in the space you plan to put it.
Don’t just think about what is on-trend and fashionable, your modern bar stools need to fit in and harmonise with the environment you already have. It is much like clothes; just because a certain style or cut is in fashion it doesn’t mean it will suit you. Don’t let this put you off though, unusual designs are what make a space unique and also what gives it it’s character. People often remember visiting a bar that has beautiful furniture because it stands out in their mind.
Stand out pieces like the Somen Bar Stools are incredibly innovative and also good looking. Almost like little magic toadstools, they are available in five bright colours and sit flat on the ground. At 450mm high and with a circumference of 400mm they create a casual atmosphere and can be easily placed by customers who want to sit with their friends! The best part though, is that they can be flipped over to create a table, so really they are two pieces of furniture in one; modern bar stools on one side and modern tables on the other.
Innovative Storage Ideas for the Home
Storage is such an important aspect of the home. It allows us to show off or hide away our items. It gives everything a home and will keep anything we do not wish people to see, out of plain sight. With ample storage you can create an uncluttered, minimalist environment, without the need to sacrifice your things to achieve it.
If you are fighting to find space at home to store all your bits and pieces, and can’t bear to part with anything, why not have a look at some inventive storage ideas that we have found on the web.
Here are 2 brilliant storage ideas for your stairs.
This inventive stairwell was designed and built for a top floor flat in a London town house.
The stair treads are made from solid Oak, and provide shelves that wrap around 3 sides of the space. Books fully line the shelves and create a miniature, library-esque style environment.
This proves that even in a small space you can create a lot of storage. Click Here to see the full article about this ingenious staircase.
This second example of stairwell storage, uses just the space, normally wasted, under each step. By inserting a drawer under the tread, and using the riser as the drawer front, you can create large, easily accessible storage.
Unlike the idea above, this hides your items away, rather than putting them on show. The drawers themselves are so discreet, that you wouldn’t even notice them unless you knew they were there.
Click Here to read the full article.
These ideas could be easily adapted, on a smaller scale, for your home and really help to keep your space clean and clear. The perfect solutions for your clutter needs.