Another Friday, and I have another veritable feast of internet doodlings that’ll again leave you wondering do I have anything better to do in my spare time. Answer: certainly not!

From stunningly tiled interiors to a kid’s bedroom so superbly decorated you’ll wonder why your own parents didn’t make a bit more effort, I’ve got a great bunch lined up. So without further ado let’s dive in!

Inspiring Tiles on Your House is Lovely

Everything on Kate’s blog is designed to make you happy, from the complimentary name (why thank you! Your home is lovely too!) to the beautiful photography. I especially love the imagery in her article on Bert & May – a company who specialise in reclaimed-looking tiles, and are responsible for the delightfully azure interior in the picture below that is sure to make you blue with envy.

Butterfly Chairs on Bodie and Fou

I’d seen a butterfly chair before, but this was the first I could put the design to a name. I love this authentic re-edition of the 1938 classic that the girls over and Bodie and Fou have found have found, and the article’s brief history of this iconic design is well worth a read too.

Funky Geometric Rugs on My Friend’s House

Despairing at the high price tag of modern rugs? Don’t fret – Ros and Jill are on the case.  This blog post features four superbly stylish geometrically patterned rugs that’ll ensure when it comes to rug buying, you won’t get cold feet (ahem).      

                                              

Getting Flowery on Junglow

I like art. I also like flowers. So it was a pleasant suprise when I came across Justina’s floral creations.  Using the hashtag #facethefoliage, Justina has been periodically making the interent a better place by posting these colourful creation on her social media accounts. Check out her blog, or get on over to Instagram or Twitter to find out more!  

            

Sebastian’s Super Awesome Bedroom on Sissy + Marley

And last but not least, it’s not often I'm jealous of a child’s bedroom, but that’s certainly the case with Sebastain’s Bedroom, as showcased on Sissy + Milly. Featuring everything from giant lego blocks to a cool old-school chalk board, this is a fun space whose stylish, monochrome colour scheme will make it the envy of parents world wide!

 
Buying and installing a new fireplace? Piece of cake. But decorating it – that’s what separates the men from the boys.

You see, it may not look it, but there’s an awful lot to consider when dressing up your mantel. From deciding on the types of accessories it will display to how they will be arranged, it’s all about creating subtle layers and elegant flows for the eyes to follow, attracting attention without taking over your living room.

While there is no single, universal way to make your mantel look great, most are agreed that it is important to create a visual triangle - that is, back up your mantel with a large mirror/picture, and then weigh it down with smaller pieces on the edges. In fact many people, including Steven and Chris abide by a formula that follows these 5 easy steps:

1. Incorporate Something Big

However you dress up your mantel, you should always make sure you place a large, central object on the wall behind. Whether it be a mirror, picture or even a TV, this will create the main focal point of your decoration, and will supplement the accessories placed in front.  

2. Move the Eye

A great trick is to try and include objects that have movement. This could be literal, as in wavering candle flames or a ticking clock, but it can also include items of various heights and widths that will cause the eye to move as it scans. Try and keep this on the left side of your mantel.

3. Add Some Visual Weight

To balance out the moment, you’ll need to add something more hefty on the right side to add a little weight. Something like a vase of flowers or a large photograph would work perfectly, creating a triangle between the elements to the left and above.

4.Create Layers

Now you have your main elements in place, you can start to include some more personal touches. Layer and stagger in photos, clocks, figurines, flowers, and other small touches that will help create visual interest. If you can, add them in small clusters to add some cohesion.

5. Finishing Touches

Now it's time to stand back and survey what you've done. Make sure you make your more personal pieces more prevalent, and mix up your accessories so they vary in height, creating a wave effect. If done right, your mantel should have a naturally attractive appearance that adds to your room with stealing too much spotlight.


Although simple, following these steps is a great start to styling your fireplace. Just remember to not be scared to experiment, and keep trying new colours, heights and shapes until you have a mantel that suits you!

Image Credits: Image 1 - Ocean Island Living, Image 2 - HGTV, Image 3 - HGTV

Well it’s that time of the week again, and this time I’ve found some real crackers. From bizarre Korean furniture to the most realistic fireplace noise generator you’ll ever come across (honest), the blogosphere has again yielded a plethora of interesting titbits to chew on, so see below to check out the best of the best!

Wooden Pineapple Bowls on Hello Lidy

Hello Lidy has quickly sneaked into being one of my favourite blogs – partly because of the great content, beautiful imagery and wonderful designs, but mostly because of Lidy’s (slightly worrying) obsession with pineapples! Out of all her posts, these cute little pineapple bowls really caught my attention. Be sure to check out all her great posts over at her blog. 

Edible Flower Ice Cubes on Apartment Therapy

Including a DIY guide has turned into a weekly thing now, with this week’s addition being particularly interesting: How to Make Edible Flower Ice Cubes. Never again must your ice and flowers occupy separate spaces, with the star of this DIY video Ben Gould teaching us how to make this simple yet effective decoration. A great post which is sure to please the gardener/eskimo in you!             

Korean Chairs at NewX

Bored of your plain old kitchen chair made of such mundane materials as wood or plastic? Then you need to head off to South Korea, where designers have been redesigning the wheel, so to speak. I really love some of these abstract furniture designs in this post by NewX, but it's Jinil Park's pencil sketch-inspired chair that impresses me most. 

The myNoise Fireplace Noise Generator

Ever wished you could instantly generate and customise the sound of a fireplace burning? Course you have! Well now your (slightly disturbed) dreams have been answered with this delightfully bizarre tool/mobile app. With firesounds ranging from a gentle crackle to a grab-your-family-and-get-out roar, I had great fun playing with this little toy.

Getting Wild with Gurdy Herder

Another outdoorsy post to go with last Tuesday's post on Chimineas, this time coming from Gurdy Herder of Eclectic Trends. Getting the outdoor look inside is all the rage at the moment, and Gurdy talks us through the basics of how to achieve it - just short of plonking a cow in the front room. Stuffed full of beautiful colours, textures and furniture, be sure not to miss out on this great post.

Summer is here (finally), and for the first time since moving to rainy old Manchester, I feel like the weather is finally on my side. Okay, so the sunshine isn’t going to last, but heck, that’s not going to stop me getting involved in the garden décor scene – and neither should it you.

Outdoor fireplaces have been getting cheaper and more accessible for a while now, with chimineas at long last sweeping back into fashion. Easy to set up and impressive looking, these tall, Mexican-style fires are an effective and inexpensive way to spice up your garden.

What is a Chiminea?

Chimineas are basically large, pear shaped pots, with elongated tops and a hollow centre in the middle which houses a fire, as well as the wood/coal/biofuel used to feed the flames.  Chimineas were supposedly invented hundreds, if not thousands of years ago in southern Mexico. Clay was dug from riverbeds and moulded into crude pots, which were heated in makeshift kilns. The result were large, distinctly shaped pots that could be used for both campfire heating and cooking food.

This ancient tradition has survived for centuries, and has now resurfaced as a stylish and practical way to both decorate gardens and host barbecues. Having a chiminea in the modern day has a great number of advantages, including the following:

• They are a great source of outdoor heating.
• They can make a beautiful focal point to gather around, especially in the evening.
• They are Relatively inexpensive.
• They are easy to set up and light.
• Low maintenance - just purchase a cover for rainy days and you can leave them outside all year!
• Safety - many offer fire grates to cover the flame.
• Many chimineas can also be used to barbecue food.
• There are a great variety of styles, shapes, fuel types and materials to choose from.

One thing that has changed since ancient times is the sheer variety of Chimineas that are avilable . From tiny candle burners to gigantic cast iron behemoths, you have a tough choice ahead if you decide to invest in one. Below is a basic breakdown of some of the more common varieties.


 

1. Mexican Clay Chimineas

Definitely one of my favourites, clay chimineas are usually based on the original classic Mexican design. I really love the way the clay gives the shape and colour an irregular, rustic look, imbuing it with an almost organic quality that makes it perfect for outside use. These types of chiminea, in true Mexican fashion, often make great use of colour and texture, and so are perfect for pairing up with an equally colourful garden, or for giving some spark to a dull one.

2. Cast Iron Chimnea

Bigger, bolder, and much more cast iron-y than their clay counterpart, cast iron chimineas were developed as an alternative to the classic design. Apart from having a more dramatic and formidable appearance, cast iron chimineas are much more durable than any other type of chiminea, and are able to withstand higher temperatures for much longer. They are also often assembled in pieces using nuts and bolts, meaning transportation and delivery of them is often easier. If you feel your garden is lacking in character or could do with a strong focal point, a cast iron chiminea would be ideal.

3. Modern Chimineas

Despite being an ancient design, it doesn't mean your chiminea has to be stuck in the past. In fact, many companies produce extremely modern, contemporary chimineas that double in function as works of art in their own right. Modern chimineas come in a huge range of colours, sizes and shapes, from straight lined, minimalist varieties to large, opulent creations with lots of bells and whistles. Many also come with a built in barbeque, so be sure to shop around to find one that’ll be perfect for your garden.


 

4. Candle Chimineas

If your budget is a little smaller, then a more petite candle chiminea might just be up your street. Although not much use for heating (or cooking for that matter, unless you're cooking a single baked bean), candle chimineas are a cute and effect way to add some charm to your garden. Although small, when you pop in a candle and dim the porch lights they look superb, and when grouped together or nestled around your plant pots can create a harmonious atmosphere both outside the house and inside. For me, the traditional clay varieties like the ones below just can't be beat!

  
    
As you can see, chimineas can be beautiful, and if selected properly will completely change the look and feel of your garden. Although you may not be sure if these charismatic fires are for you, especially if you live in the city centre like me (although that doesn't mean you can't have an inspiring garden according to this post by Abigial Ahern), chimineas are relatively cheap, so I say if unsure, just go for it!


Image Credits: Header Image - White Stores, Image 1 - Garden Gear, image 2 - Will and Mary, Image 3 - Garden More, Image 5 Chiminea -  Image 6 - Home Hardware direct
 

Well, looks like it's the big day again on Sunday, and if you're anything like me then you've been fervently dashing between shops searching for a present - any present - for father's day that falls outside the generic category of cards and chocolates. Thankfully, in modern times you need not limit yourself to the high street, as many online stores serve up a wealth of weird and wonderful presents that'll tide you over for another year. 

Father's come in many shapes and sizes, from the dad's of your kids to your own old man, so I've selected gift ideas that'll hopefully suit everyone. I've also tried to stay away from the cliches - golf clubs, tanned leather wallets, cufflinks (well I've had to link to one, but I had no choice - it was made of Lego for goodness sake), so if you're after something a little more unique, check out my father's day gift ideas below!

1. Camera Lens Mug

Getting Personal | £14.99

This nifty camera mug is the perfect novelty for the that won't stop banging on about focal depths and apertures. Coming with a moving zoom focus and detachable cover lid that doubles up as a cookie holder, if you have a photography loving dad you should be sure to snap this up!

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2. Samurai Kitchen Knife Set

Menkind | 39.99
Dads love food. Many dads also love samurais (as well as pirates, ninjas and Teenage Hero Mutant Turtles), so what could be better than a present that combines both?  Make him feel like a badass next time he cuts the Sunday roast with this cool set of kitchen knifes.

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3. Personalised Vinyl Print

Betsy Benn | £35.00 


Got a dad that's nostalgic for the tunes he grew up with? This Vinyl Print is perfect for bringing back the sounds of his youth. Personalise it with the name of his favourite song, along with a small message at the bottom if you're so inclined, than add it to the wall for some vintage charm.

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4. Music Click Clock

NOTH | £119.99

Your home is important. It’s the place where you eat, sleep, and cut your toenails - sometimes all at the same time (did I ever tell you about my ex housemate??) Basically, it’s the place you’re going to be spending an awful lot of time in, so you need to make sure you decorate it right.

Unfortunately, even a few small mistakes can spell disaster. So to make sure you get the most from your interior, here are five common interior design mistakes that you should avoid like the plague:

Using Only One Lighting Source

Lighting is the biggest asset your room has, so make sure you make the most of it. By layering up floor lamps, desk lamps and overhead lights, you can accent your interior the way you want, drawing attention to and hiding features as you feel appropriate. Try and include at least 3 types of different sources that not only add atmosphere, but also add to the function of that room, whether it be sleeping, reading or entertaining.

Unsociable Furniture Placement

You’d be surprised about the amount of people who make this common interior design mistake and simply push all their furniture against the wall. Not only are you not making proper use of your room’s space, but with all your furniture pushed apart, you’re not creating the most social of environments. Furniture should be grouped together in clusters not only to allow for easy navigation of a room, but also to create a more intimate space that will aid communication with friends and guests.

No Focal Point

You can have the world’s best living room, but without a focal point your guests are going to find it underwhelming and lacking focus. The right focal point will add balance to your interior that will be evident as soon as you enter the room. Try experimenting by dressing up your wall with a large piece of wall art, or better yet install a fireplace with a well decorated mantel. Don't be afraid to be creative - for example a fireplace in the bedroom isn't exactly the norm, but in the bottom-left interior from Emmas Blogg, it directs attention away from the bed, turning the sleeping space into a cozy little nook.

   

Too Much/Not Enough Variety

Plenty of people are guilty of both of these crimes. People with too much colour and texture in their homes often end up with a messy, uncoordinated space that is not conducive to relaxation. Those who stick rigidly to a set palate however soon find it monotonous and dull. Remember that everything needs to coordinate, but not necessarily match, so never buy all your furniture from the same place. Spice up your interior by picking up on shades and highlights in your cushions and wall art, but never do so to the point that your interior feels too noisy.

Too Much Clutter

We all love stuff. Thing is, when your stuff starts to get in the way, problems start. Look at your room’s furniture and eliminate anything that isn’t absolutely essential.  Invest in multifunctional furniture such as beds with hidden draws and coffee tables with extra storage space to be rid of these cluttering knickknacks. Look at the beautiful interior below from My paradissa, that although petite, makes great use of storage, placement and colour to get every ounce of worth from its space.

  


Image Credits: Image 1 - Flickr, Image 2 -  Tom Raffield, Image 2 - Emmas Blogg, Iamge 4 - Decor8, Image 5 & 6 - My Paradissi
 

We love stuff. From mouthwatering recipes to beautiful interiors and cats in bow ties, the Internet is chock full of stuff that's fun, fantastic and abominably cute. So much so, we can't help but feel a sense of responsibility to share our findings with you! Read on to see what has caught our eye in the blogosphere this week.

Inspiring Prints on Print and Pattern

A wonderful website for all you print lovers out there. Run by a UK based designer who goes under the pseudonym 'Bowie Style', the blog features a plethora of prints for wallpaper, fabrics, ceramics, gift wrap and even cards, and is the perfect place to discover new talent. We're hard pushed to pick a favourite, but we love the bold, oversized geometric shapes from London based fabric company Korla.

  

'3 WaysTo Style Your Cloth Rail at Home' on Bodie and Fou

If you're anything like me, you probably haven't put much thought into styling your coat rack. Sisters Karen and Elodie certainly have though , and their coat racks are the crowning piece in their soft industrial and Scandinavian themed homes. Check out their fanastic blog to learn how and get yourself inspired!

Handmade Scrap Fabric Twine on My Poppet

I hate throwing stuff away, because I just know a handy guide like this is going to come along and teach me how to turn my scraps into gold dust. In this post, Cintia from My Poppet shares how  to make fun and funky twine using nothing more than strips of old fabric. Whether you use them to wrap parcels or as a fun decorative piece is up to you, but whatever the case you should definitely check out this creative blog.

Modern Outdoor Fireplaces on Homedit

Homedit poses a very good question: if we're going to lavish a new fireplace on our livingroom, doesn't our patio deserve the same treatment? Okay, my flat doesn't have a garden, but that doesn't stop me drooling over some of these stunning outdoor modern fireplaces. Reader discretion is advised - this post will make you jealous.

Fading Flower Prints on Decor8

Time to get a bit arty now with some stunning prints by Trine Hisdal, as featured on Decor8. Hisdal has put a new spin on the often oversubscribed floral design by photographing flowers whilst dying. The artist says he wants to "document the fragility of flowers and their short lived beauty, and how they look beautiful even as they fade". The pictures are so vivid you can almost smell the fragrance of the petals and see the dew drops tremble. Beautiful, inspiring and downright pretty, I'd love to see these on my wall!

  

Colour. It's great really. It’s because of colour we can appreciate the finer things in life, like great works of art and different flavours of Quality Street.The next best application of colour is in interior design of course, and with New Year still fresh upon us, there has never been a better time to update your décor for 2014. The colour landscape is a constantly shifting hotbed of creativity, so to get you up to speed with what's trending, here are the 5 shades of 2014 that your interior needs:

Colour Trend #1: Radiant Orchid

Officially Pantone’s colour of the year, Radiant Orchid’s subtle tone incorporates an intoxicating blend of fuchsia, purple and pink. Blending both cool and warm undertones, this is a lively and versatile colour that can complement teals, greens and even olive hues. Implement Radiant Orchid all over your home as a solid colour, or pick up on it with accented lampshades, cushions and ornaments to energise a more neutral interior. Check out this excellent article by Houzz’s Jennifer Ott for more tips on how to utilise Radiant Orchid.
                                            

Colour Trend #2: Friendly Neutrals

Black and white have long been a staple of modern design, but 2014 will see them lose their austerity. “For 2014 I see [black and whites] softening and feeling more cozy. In the cooler months think Scandinavian chic, while in the summer months think French striped shirts" Joanna Hawley from jojotastic.com writes. Greys too will be important, with driftwood and pebble shades perfect for warming up bathroom tiles and kitchen sideboards.

Colour Trend #3: A Variety of Blues

Blues have been getting cooler and cooler since 2010, but 2014 is bringing an abundance of heavier green and purple varieties back into vogue, including turquoise and aqua. That’s not to say the more traditional shades are excluded however. Paloma Contreras from ladolcevitablog.com says: "From rich, saturated colours like navy and indigo to bright, vibrant shades like peacock blue and cobalt, blue will continue to reign supreme in the coming year."
                                                                                                                                                                                              





















In fact Benjamin Moore has named Breathe of Fresh Air as their official colour of 2014 - a refreshing and subtle hue that is sure to keep your home light and breezy throughout the year.

Colour Trend #4: Tal

Teal is colourfutures.com’s colour of the year (be sure to check out their wonderfully informative site.) A tertiary shade combining the tranquillity of blue and lushness of green, this is a muted and understated hue that will add buckets of character without being overpowering. Teal is a really versatile colour that looks great when combined with pink and yellow, but can also be layered with navy and denim, or contrasted with emerald or duck egg green for a wonderfully radiant effect. 

Colour Trend #5: Natural Colours

Farrow & Ball have recently announced their colour combinations of 2014, stating that: “the colours we will want to use in our homes over the next year reflect our instinctive need to turn our backs on the hard, flat surfaces which dominate modern life.” 

 

In years of uncertainty, we are always drawn to natural, unrestrained colours, which is definitely an influence on this rural landscape and coastline inspired collection. Check out these moody coastal blues and organic cooking apple greens to really flare your imagination for decorating your home.

Image Credits:  Image 1 - Mum Butter, Image 2 - Benjamin Moore, Image 3 & 4 - Farrow & Ball