Homewares brand Ecology have branched into bed linen for the first time as part of their Spring Summer 22/23 release. Superbloom celebrates bold designs, cheerful colours and abstract, desert-inspired florals, designed to remind us of holidays to sun-drenched destinations. Hopefully the Australian summer will follow suit!
Dream Stone & White Collection
Superbloom
Encapsulating the theme of the season, the superbloom bedding collection captures the essence and vibrancy of vast fields of wildflowers radiating in the sun. Designed by Sarah Strickland, who was inspired by images of superbloom events in Western Australia, the palette projects the warmth and brilliance of summer. The beaming wildflowers are arranged in a dynamic fusion of overlapping petals and stems, creating both an energetic and harmonious burst of colour. Available in queen, king and super king.
Superbloom Quilt Cover Queen $199.99Superbloom Euro Pillowcase $49.99Superbloom Pillowcase Set $64.99Superbloom collection
Wanderlust
The feeling of wanderlust is stronger than ever now that travel is finally possible again. However comfort, security and warm feel from being cocooned in our own space is still important. Wanderlust blends these two ideas to create a range that gives the sense of adventure and discovery and brings it into the sanctuary of our bedrooms. The colours have a really calming feel, with designer Heather Piez using a palette of earthen hues to highlight the warmth in her rising sun motifs. Available in queen, king and super king.
Wanderlust Pillowcase Set $64.99Wanderlust Euro Pillowcase $49.99Wanderlust Quilt Cover Queen $199.99Wanderlust collection
She-Oak
Sarah was musing over the delicate, needle-like fronds on the native she-oaks when designing this collection. Her interpretation of the elongated leaves was achieved by painting in loose watercolour, allowing her to create a fluid pattern where the soft colours flow into one another. From afar, the horizontal stripes present as a full cover of peachy goodness while up close the intricate detail of the stippled watercolour technique can be seen.
Dream provides the solid foundation to create a minimalist aesthetic or use it as your anchor pieces to accentuate high pattern quilts and pillows. This bedding collection offers a blend of European Linen and BCI Cotton in four solid colours for a classic, effortless finish. The dream range comes in dream white, dream stone, dream dandelion or dream peach.
Dream Peach Euro Pillowcase $49.99Dream Dandelion Pillowcase Set $64.99Dream Stone Quilt Cover Queen $199.99The dream collection
Previously known as Linen & Moore, L&M Home was founded in 2000 and its bedding range has a focus on natural materials rich in texture and character. More of a forever purchase, the linen becomes softer with time and use, as does the soft hand-loomed cotton. And while the range features plenty of trend-based colours, it’s the classic stripes and textured pieces that are perfect for that chic, timeless aesthetic.
We just love Rachel Castle’s fun but sophisticated linen range, mastering mix and match and making bright colour acceptably grown up. You’re probably familiar with her spotty sheets, velvet penny round cushions and limited edition screen printed tea towels, which get snapped up and framed as affordable art. Castle’s all about pops of colour and a bit of whimsy.
On the website you’ll also find beach towels, bags, sweatshirts, Rachel’s original artwork and prints and more. I have countless grey linen doona covers and my castle one is my fave. So much so I have now actually worn it out from years of washing and use!
It’s the linen Jen currently has on her bed (a mix of rosa and mint ticking stripes, if you’re interested, and yes, pink and green should always be seen!). LinenMe only manufacture bed linen from 100% European stonewashed linen which is strong and supple, getting better with each use and wash. They say investing in a top quality European linen product is an investment in longevity. Their range of colours (especially for the stripe lovers!) is huge and as well as sheets. covers and pillowcases, they also sell table linen, throws, cushions, robes and much more!
Launched in 2013, I Love Linen started as just bed linen and has expanded to include table linen, homewares, towels and more. When it comes to your bedroom textiles, you’ll find pure cotton and linen, organic bamboo, cushions, mattress toppers and more. Whether you’re after on-trend crumpled plain linen or crisp, white, hotel style sheets, it’s a great one-stop-shop! We love the mix of plains and patterns and layering extras like valances and pillowcases too – all great quality and at very reasonable prices.
The brand’s ‘3D Bundle Curator’ tool is a great feature of the site – you can build an entire bedroom look from the fitted sheet to the quilt cover and more. The tool gives you a visual which shows exactly how the selection will look on your bed.
Launched in Melbourne in 2012, Kip&Co was founded by sisters Kate Heppell and Hayley Pannekoecke and best buddy Alex McCabe. Their bold designs and trademark giant tassel throws have become cult bestsellers and they do a great limited edition collaboration too! Collection after collection, year after year, we love this brand more and more.
What started as a bright, colourful bedding brand, quickly expanded into a vibrant lifestyle brand, as the girls brought their fun and stylish aesthetic to products for every corner of the home, and every member of the family. Now with a global following, Kip&Co continues to be inspired by the girls’ simple passion for interiors that are full of joy, laughter and the colour of life.
Aura Home is now a very established brand, sold online as well as in the likes of Myer. Founded in 2000 by Tracie Ellis, and inspired by years of global meandering, they design everything in Melbourne, and while we seen many trends come and go, they believe it’s their forward-looking approach that sets them apart. They’ve evolved from muted, earthy tones to extravagant colour, and then to subtle pastels. We think they have just the right amount of pattern and texture these days!
They’ve expanded to sell things such as rugs, ceramics, towels and more, and now have a beautiful concept store in Malvern too. I’m a fan of their ticking stripes and tie-closure Maison quilt covers.
Another great small Aussie linen brand for high quality, classic, muted linen. They believe in products that last, great customer service and only use European flax linen. Founder Nicolle Sullivan believes using beautiful things in our everyday life can make us feel happier. Agreed! They also sell table linen, throws, cushions, robes and more. Shipping is free on every order and the brand offers free returns too.
Just another plain linen brand? Maybe! But In the Sac gets top marks for branding, packaging and colour choices! Great quality, great colours (and lovely stripes) and free shipping worldwide.
Of course, no Australian linen roundup is complete without Sheridan! People will tell you how the sheets they received as a wedding gift are still going strong, decades on! And I find their sheets just feel amazing too! Cotton, silk, linen, plain, patterned, modern, classic, colourful, from 250 to 1200 threadcount and everything in between, they have it all! Founded in 1967, Sheridan is a household name synonymous with quality (you’ll find them in Qantas first class, no less). In recent years they’ve done some great collaborations too. I find it’s a great place to buy bed covers (or coverlets) which can be tricky to find in Australia.
“We’re proud to design prints that unexpectedly and expertly clash with one another,” says Sage x Clare’s designer Phoebe Bell. From Moroccan stars to statement animal prints, hand drawn florals, handmade embroidery and 1970’s inspired colours and textures, this brand is one for the maximalists. Expert at the mix and match, we love how the brand’s sheet sets, quilt covers and cushions create a playful Bohemian vibe in the bedroom.
Not the first place you’d expect to find fabulous bed linen but we like to think of it as a hidden gem. From florals to checks, plain and abstract designs, the line-up is strong but the prices are reasonable. For example, the 100% linen duvet cover below is priced at $200 which is a steal in our books! With waffle blankets, down duvet covers, pillows and more available, it really is a one-stop bedding shop.
Featuring collaborations with contemporary Australian artists, the Greenhouse Interiors bedding range comes in limited edition, highly covetable, prints. The art embellished range is designed to be mixed and matched with all of the pieces available to purchase separately. The range’s 100 per cent cotton art emblazoned bed covers are always a sell-out.
Another clever purveyor of mix and match bed linen, Melbourne’s Sheet Society don’t believe in being forced to buy bed sheets in sets; all of its items are available for individual sale making the brand a great choice for a bespoke look. Specialising in bed sheets that are trend-driven in terms of colours, designs and fabrics, the brand’s core products are made from luxurious long-stable Eden Cotton and French flax Eve linen but there’s boucle, corduroy and waffle options too. Invisible zips, extra wide elastic, a deep pillow fold and a folded top edge are all standard features.
This VIC-based brand do luxury linen “without the la di da” and pride themselves on keeping it real! “We are not your typical linen brand and we don’t get all fancy pants on our customers, we just want to give them the best night’s sleep, night after night,” says founder Nikki Cap. They specialise in only 100% premium pure French linen. “Quite simply, it’s damn good!”
This gorgeous bedding brand has a distinct retro vibe. There’s leopard print, gingham, floral patterns and more, all created in 100 per cent French flax linen. The brand also produces gorgeous napery and cushions as well as a lovely line-up of matching apparel.
With more and more people working from home, the bedroom has become an important place of respite and relaxation. Enter Heatherly Design’s new Chameleon collection, a bespoke range of beds that will turn your bedroom into a cosy self-care sanctuary.
The range taps into current interior design trends including sophisticated curves, neutral colour palettes, coastal themes and abundant texture.
“As a result of the coronavirus pandemic, our relationship with our homes has changed and will continue to evolve into the future,” says Georgia Leckey, founder of Heatherly Design. “This has accelerated a shift in how consumers cultivate their sleeping space and has given rise to ‘restorative bedrooms’ — a sentiment we see intensifying in seasons to come.”
The eggshell boucle and curvy shape of the Bonnie Bed create a calm and cosy cocoon for style-conscious sleepers.
The adaptable Rupert FLIP Bedhead Above and below) can be rotated between two opposing shades. The coastal hues and textured linen are perfect for those wanting a youthful and relaxing atmosphere.
Natural, earthy tones star in the Medina bed, which comes as a full-bed design with matching bolster cushions. The warm palette and crisp linen will create harmony in any bedroom.
Channelling the sophisticated elegance of New York’s Upper East Side, the Astor bedhead has been updated with new colourways and Ikat braid detailing. This tranquil design will transcend time and trends.
Sponsored by TEMPUR I don’t know about you, but I’m forever bringing ideas home from hotels to try and incorporate into my own bedroom. Because there’s nothing like that comfortable,…
Styling cushions: bed or lounge, follow these helpful tips
Everyone says the right cushions can make or break a bed or lounge, but actually deciding which ones to put together gives many people a headache! It’s not as easy…
Siesta Walls, who launched this year, are making bedroom styling a breeze with their newly-released range of eco-friendly, reusable, self-adhesive wallpaper “headboards”.
The first of their kind in Australia, they’re available in 22 designs, all of which are inspired by minimalism to work in harmony with existing bedroom aesthetics, and do not require professional installation. You simply peel and stick these oversized decals!
The launch collection features six ranges – Neutral, Monochromatic, Solid, Landscape, Rainbow and Abstract – and some designs are available in a variety of colours.
“We believe in the power of simplicity. Each design is inspired by the world we live in, featuring a wide range of adaptable hues to transform the look of a bedroom into a neutral haven or warm romantic setting,” says CEO Kristie Richardson.
“Like us, our customers are passionate about caring for our planet, so we’ve partnered with Left Bank Art Group who use Australia’s only printer that’s certified with a UL ECOLOGO for environmental excellence and all of our designs use environmentally-friendly latex inks, which are water-based.”
The PVC-free decals can also be removed and reused many times over without leaving a sticky residue on walls, shrinking or curling. They start from just $165 each, appealing to even the most price-conscious shopper, and come in single, king single, queen and king size. Shipping is free, Australia-wide.
Cleverly, queen or king size also work nicely to form an arch behind a baby’s cot.
Upholstered bedheads with on-trend, changeable covers
“Upholstery has always been in the family. My dad has been an upholsterer for over 40 years and I remember sitting on the floor of our little apartment in Brisbane’s…
We’ve sung the praises of Create Estate bedheads before but its latest collection, courtesy of a collaboration with artist Kimmy Hogan, is utterly next level! A beautiful pairing, the design…
Mattresses in a box: they’re popping up everywhere at the moment, am I right? There’s certainly a new way to buy a mattress which is quicker, more affordable, and –let’s be honest– we love that novelty factor of something so bulky coming to the door rolled up in a box!
When new kids on the block SleepX approached me to work with them as a spokesperson, I wasn’t going to put my name to a brand until I knew why they were different, that their quality was high, their manufacturing processes sound, and, of course, that their mattresses were comfortable. Happily, I was in the market for a new one so it was a good time for Damian and I to test drive (sleep?) the SleepX difference for ourselves!
Here’s what always got me about the many other one-size-fits-all mattress-in-a-box brands: there is no way that one mattress fits everyone. Comfort is such a personal thing, we all sleep differently, we all have a different view of what is too hard or too soft. We are different body shapes, heavier and lighter, back sleepers (my husband) and side sleepers (that’s me). Yes, you can return your one-size-fits-all mattress if it doesn’t work for you, but there’s no alternative to swap it for.
So the fact that SleepX offer three different mattress designs was the first thing that impressed me. You can even go and try them out at their showroom in Sydney’s Chippendale. What’s more, if you and your other half like completely different mattresses, they’ll make you a half-n-half Duo mattress for just $200 more. How good is that?! SleepX may be new to the market but the company behind the brand has decades of experience in the bedding industry, so it’s no wonder they know what they’re doing and their offering is more sophisticated than most.
I was convinced that Damian and I would end up with a Duo and I was excited that this was an option for us. Our existing mattress was a very expensive latex and memory foam number that he loved and I, well, really didn’t. I was having a selfless wife moment when we bought it. He has a chronic shoulder injury from his days as a tennis coach so I thought it was more important that we chose something he found really comfortable. But when we went to try out the SleepX options we both really liked the Balance Medium option (there’s also the Serenity Soft and the Restore Firm). Who would have thought it? And two weeks later (because you can’t review a mattress overnight, pardon the pun) we are both loving it. An added bonus is that when Sebastian sneaks into our bed in the night, which happens pretty often, we don’t even notice. This will be down to SleepX technology which provides excellent support and weight distribution – so there’s no chance of being disturbed if your partner tosses and turns (or your child jumps in). You’ll also stay cool and comfortable throughout the night.
There’s not just three different firmness options but an impressive six sizes: single, long single, king single, double, queen and king. They’re made from the highest quality materials — a combination of memory foam and high-resilience foam – so they’re comfortable yet supportive. And the 10-year warranty definitely adds peace of mind! And they’re great value too, starting at $650.
And did I mention they’ll deliver within four hours to metro areas if you order before 2pm (and within 48 hours for a Duo mattress which really impressed me)?
So, what about how they’re made as well as how they feel to sleep on? As I mentioned before, I can’t put my name to something without knowing they’re a legitimate operation making high quality goods. The entire range of products are non-allergenic, anti-bacterial and environmentally- friendly. They’re 100% recyclable and certified by Good Environmental Choice Australia (GECA), awarded to products that use clean, high-quality and environmentally-friendly materials. Another bonus is that all SleepX products use CompriShield during the manufacturing process – a natural, sustainable, bio-based microbial control solution providing great protection against mould (which seems to be a big Sydney problem!), mildew, dust mites and odour that lasts the lifetime of the foam. This last point especially appeals to me as a parent. And they’re made right here in Australia.
The offering doesn’t end at mattresses, there are pillows too, in three different sizes (and Damian and I did need different ones here, no doubt because his shoulders are about twice as wide as mine!). They also sell mattress toppers from $199 if you want to add some extra comfort to your existing mattress. All in all, our new mattress and pillows have been giving us the best nights’ sleep in ages this month! As a busy mum and business owner, to say I value my sleep would be a huge understatement!
SleepX do encourage customers however to max out their 120-day free trial period because it takes at least two weeks to acclimatise to a new mattress.
You know how there’s those kids labels – be it fashion, homewares or furniture – where you just need to have it all, except you’re an adult and alas, nothing will fit! Well Incy Interiors is that label for me. Except now… they do stuff for adults. Win!
Their latest offering, Mod Collection, is supposedly for kids, but there are some products you could definitely steal for yourself. Featuring a desk, change table, side table and a quirky take on a loft bed; the collection has been inspired by modernist trends of the 1950s.
Each of the designs gives a nod to Hollywood glamour, with curved silhouettes and sophisticated hardware. The collection is made from New Zealand pine and aluminium, which is power coated in navy, white or chrome plated rose gold. Divine!
The New York loft style bed is ideal for maximising space in any kids bedroom. Inspired by the bunkbeds of yore, the design provides functional sleeping zones, additional height and a grand sense of openness. You can also complete the look with the Mod side table, which features two pullout drawers.
Also available is the Mod change table, with its slender silhouette, round corners and tapered legs; creating a soft, timeless look. Versatility is key with the change table converting into a dresser when needed. Team this with the Mod desk, which features two pullout drawers on a stainless steel frame. Both pieces can be used to decorate a children’s room (or an adult’s study!).
Sealy share their top tips for an extra special bedroom.
Colour is a unifying force. Use it to harmonise the many elements of your bedroom.
Crisp whites are classic, clean and energising, but can often look overly sterile if not paired with coloured accents or varied in texture. Solid, subtle creams, beiges, taupes and muted shades of blue are softer alternatives that are less likely to age than trendy geometrics and graphic patterns. Choose and maintain a consistent colour palette, paying attention to smaller details such as matching hardware and wood tones.
Deep, dusty blue hues are perfectly paired with dark, romantic plum hues in this chic bedroom interior by Sealy.
Use your budget wisely. Some aspects of your interiors are worth investing in, while other elements are okay to skimp on.
Upcycling can be fun and is a wonderful way to reduce wastage when revamping an outdated room. Refreshing an aging dresser with simple silver hardware or a new finish, for example, is a relatively inexpensive way to breathe new life into your daggy decor. Other aspects of your bedroom interiors however, such as a supportive mattress that allows you to sleep restfully, are worth investing in. There should be no skimping when it comes to your health — you spend one third of your life in bed, after all — but there are plenty of creative ways to acquire minimal, classic pieces of furniture and decor on a budget.
Serene blues are instantly calming; a fantastic styling option for this quality, handcrafted Sealy mattress.
Your bedroom is your sleep sanctuary, so keep your comfort at the forefront of your mind.
Generously layering plush pillows over your bed will create the feel and appearance of abundant luxury. The rest of your bedding, however, should be easy and practical. A temperature ranging between 16 and 20°C is ideal for a restful night’s sleep, so opt for fresh, light bedding in the summertime. In the cooler months, soft, textured throws and cozy knits in versatile neutrals are a great investment for adding warmth. Be sure to layer these over a firm, high quality mattress: a mattress that sinks or sags in the centre is generally will not provide the support your body needs for a comfortable night’s rest, and won’t allow your bedding to sit nicely.
Crisp white bedding layered with a cosy, neutral knit hits the mark in this bedroom styling by Sealy.
Declutter your space to the best of your ability.
Space is luxurious and liberating, while clutter only serves to collect dust. Unfortunately, many of us are in the habit of cluttering our nightstands with our personal belongings, and hanging on to every beautiful piece of decor we come across. Less is more, so resist the urge to hang on to anything that a) isn’t useful, or b) doesn’t vibe with the rest of your interiors.
If minimalism is something that you struggle with, take it slow: aim to donate, gift or recycle one belonging of yours per week, and utilise space savers, hidden storage or a storage locker for the rest of your non-essentials.
The Sealy Posturepedic SpaceSaver™ drawer base comes with hidden storage to keep clutter at bay.
Add a touch of personality to your interiors. Your space can be lively, soulful and exciting while still being effortless and tasteful.
Clean and classic doesn’t have to be mundane, in the same way that playfulness doesn’t have to be messy. Fresh greenery and a captivating artwork are two great ways to bring life to your space in a way that’s tasteful, and work especially well bringing balance to a mature master bedroom. See your local greenhouse for a low-maintenance indoor plant that will add effortless pep to your interiors, or pick out a beautiful, calming piece by your favourite local artist.
Fresh, low-maintenance greenery is effortlessly energising against deep greys and neutral beige in this classic, carefree bedroom styling by Sealy.
Way back in 2014, when Tony Abbott was PM, Ellen DeGeneres took that epic celeb-filled selfie and Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin ‘consciously uncoupled,’ Interiors Addict had a milestone of its own… we produced one of our most clicked on articles ever: The 10 best places to buy Australian bed linen online.
Now, three years on, we thought it was about time we revamped the list. So here’s our favourites for 2017…
Jardan: You most likely associate Jardan with super stylish Australian furniture, but their bedding offering is of equal wow-factor. Coming in both brushed cotton and 100% linen, the divine stonewashed colours are available in solid and striped iterations.
Jardan
Kesem Boy: A newcomer to the scene, it’s the Sydney label’s fun but subtle patterns that caught our attention… perfect for those neutral lovers who are becoming that little bit daring! Made from 100% cotton sateen, they offer throws and cushions to finish the look.
Kesem Boy
L&M Home: Always reliable, L&M Home (formerly Linen and Moore) have all the latest trends covered for your bedroom, lounge and dining table. We always look forward to their new catalogue! With a design team based in Melbourne, their philosophy is around creating everyday luxury for your home.
L&M Home
Kas: Firstly, the brand is one for colour lovers, their bedding is bold, graphic and vibrant. Secondly, it’s one for the bargain hunters! Hurry, there’s an epic sale currently on.
Kas
Hunting for George: In my opinion a brand that can do no wrong! With bedding made from linen and cotton sateen and stylish accessories – like woollen blankets and throws – you can get your whole bedroom look with a click of the mouse.
Hunting for George
The Pillowslip Store: As the name suggests, these new kids on the block specialise in extra large pillowslips, which look as good on a queen bed as they will on your king. No more too-short pillows (they sell the inners too) and the designs are just fab. They come in plain colours too. We love the gingham but there’s something for everyone and it encourages low-commitment, affordable mixing and matching without changing your entire bed linen!
The Pillowslip Store
R & R Bedding: offers a considered edit of 100% French linen pillowcases and duvet covers of the very best quality and cutting edge design. Designed in Sydney’s Bondi Beach, R & R are bringing back the traditional craft of embroidery in an untraditional way: all linen pillowcases are designed to be embroidered with whatever you please (initials, sayings, your favourite Kanye lyrics), for a good night’s sleep with a side of humour. R & R makes the perfect gift for weddings, engagements, the person who has everything or as a well deserved gift to yourself.
R&R Bedding
The Jersey Company: A little bit different, the bedding is made from soft and stretchy t-shirt material, otherwise referred to as T-SHEET™. Think snuggling up at night in your favourite oversized tee! With no strict sheet sets, it’s all about mixing and matching with a range of beautiful neutrals.
The Jersey Company
Shannon Fricke: Brimming with exotic patterns, colour and a distinct boho vibe, the brand is the brainchild of stylist Shannon Fricke. A personal favourite of mine, the cotton is super soft and most designs feature that little bit something, from tassels to velvet accents.
Shannon Fricke
Goosebumps: It’s no surprise Goosebumps got their start in kids bedding with their adult’s range being playful, colourful and best of all reversible. They also have a sale on, so jump online quick smart!
Goosebumps
Sanctuary Boutique Linens: Collaborating with local and international artists, the family-owned brand brings art and design into your home. With refined yet eclectic patterns, look carefully and you’ll spot skulls paired with roses and toucans matched with tigers!
Sanctuary Boutique Linens
Linen House: With an impressive number of different styles and trends, the family-owned business offers everything from tribal textures to velvets and knits detailed with pom-poms and tassels. It’s a brand that’s sure to bring every bedroom idea to life. And between you and me, the quilt cover below has to be one of my all time favourites!
Linen House
Miss Bettina: A modern take on classic floral bed linen, the boutique label features bold hand-drawn prints on reversible quit covers. Made from 100% cotton sateen, they are perfect for those prone to allergies and best of all they’re on sale!
Miss Bettina
We are still huge fans of all the bedding brands mentioned in our original post, so don’t forget to check them out here.
We hope you found this list useful. Please let us know who you’d add!
Oh sweet, sweet IKEA! Quality products at reasonable prices. What’s not to love?
MYRHEDEN Frame
IKEA’s latest release lives up to its celebrated reputation, filled with deep colours, golden accents and a touch of the tropical.
KOARP Armchair
FADO Table Lamp
For the living room, there’s a modern armchair with a handy magazine pocket, in a range of fresh colours, and a practical sofa bed that makes room for spontaneous sleepovers in under 30 seconds. There are plenty of new textiles to help cosy up the place, from rugs to throws. Plus a selection of new lighting and decorative objects to help set the right mood.
ODGER Chair
When it comes to dining, IKEA’s launched a chair that combines iconic design with sustainable innovation. Made with a mix of wood and plastic – where more than 50% of the plastic is recycled – the chair is a more environmentally sustainable choice than virgin oil-based products. To continue the theme, there’s a new dinnerware series that’s made partly of glass from IKEA factory scraps. And for special occasions, cutlery in brass or black adds some glitz and glamour to your table.
PRISTELLA Tray, TILLAGD Cutlery and STORHET Champagne Coupe
On the kitchen front, a new worktop creates a genuine look of ash while saving on wood, and leather handles made of leather scraps give a new twist to storage. In the bathroom the ingenuity continues, with new taps in a range of styles to help save on water and energy.
Well, will you look at these stunning bedroom images?! Darren Palmer recently put together two different but equally gorgeous looks for King Living, so we took the opportunity to ask him about his own bedroom and his tips for yours.
He describes this first look (my personal favourite) as sultry, masculine and dark — almost brooding. “It feels like a penthouse apartment inspired by the Mad Men era with nods to archetypal masculine elements like men’s suiting as well as incorporating Scotch glasses, reading glasses, horse artwork and classic design pieces such as the Atollo lamp by Vico Magistretti,” he says.
By contrast, the second look is fresh, light, geometric and current. “The palette is one we’re familiar with in 2017 and the geometric patterns in the paint and artwork feel familiar as well. It’s a friendly room that is supposed to invoke comfort and softness whilst still being sophisticated. It’s also a more archetypal feminine room in balance to the more masculine feel of the darker look.”
King Living gave Darren a dream brief of simply interpreting their furniture in his own way. “That was it. I I saw it as a great opportunity to create something unseen from their range in two completely different ways.” He adds that while one room might be more traditionally masculine and one more feminine, it’s true that a woman could feel comfortable in the first room (I sure love it!) and vice versa. “It really comes down to what you feel comfortable in and what you relate to in your own experiences with your own perceptions.”
So, what’s the key to a fabulous bedroom? “Beautiful flooring, a great rug, a considered colour palette, great and well-positioned lighting, storage, continuity of materials, appropriate choice of linen, a decision on mood, be it refined, relaxed, textured etc, considered styling of your soft furnishings, decor items, artwork, some living elements and most importantly a big stamp of your own personality.” Is that all?!
Darren encourages transforming your bed simply by styling the linen with some complementary or contrasting coloured sheets, an appropriately sized bed cover, two decorative cushions and two Euro cushions added to your everyday sleeping pillows. Make a note of this formula, readers!
“That and some practiced application of positioning your soft furnishings and you’ll make your bed something really inviting,” he adds. “Don’t overdo it though. You can have too many pillows on a bed. My latest book HomeSpace has a section on four different ways to style a bed and details the sizes and approach which readers might find helpful.”
As for his own bed, Darren doesn’t make it every day! “Life is too short to iron clothes or make beds! I iron beds for shoots — or I have someone to assist me to iron the beds on shoots — but I leave my bed pretty rustic unless I need to show it for a shoot or guests.
“My bedroom at home is sparse, white and with furniture I’ve taken from house to house. I will style it soon as I have some lovely silver and blue palm tree wallpaper to hang, but I just need the time to do it. When that’s done I’ll jazz up my room but for now I have new flooring, fresh white paint and three dog beds and, apart from our king-size bed, that’s about it!”
Before you ask ‘Where’s that from?’
King Living furniture: Encore and Symphony beds, Farnsworth coffee tables (as side tables), Serenade bedside tables, Venus side table, King Boulevard chair, Seymour chair, Keel console, Amondo bookcase and Uno ottoman.
Flooring is Carpet Court’s Home Sweet Home vinyl plank from Darren’s Provincial Lane range, the rugs are his Hyam rug in blush by Carpet Court and the grey geometric is from King Living. The wall covering is Ralph Lauren from Radford Furnishings, the lights are all by Euroluce and the linen is by Sheridan. Decor pieces are from Darren’s own home, Design Twins, Designer Boys, Life Interiors, GlobeWest, Horgans, Waterford Crystal, The Art & Framing Company, Unique Fabrics, Marco Fabrics, Domestic Textile Group and Zakkia. Paint by Dulux.
Not that I need much persuasion to stay in, being a total homebody, but Linen House’s Winter 2017 collection sure does make it seem like a good idea! As ever, they’ve included an impressive number of completely different styles and trends in one collection.
Although it’s hard to imagine wanting to snuggle up and get cosy if you’re in the Sydney heat this week, we’re loving these tribal textures and patterns, rich in thick embroidery, natural rustic weaving, quilting, printing, faux furs, velvets and knits, detailed with pom-poms and tassels.
Black and white and accents of rust emerge throughout the entire collection. Complementing the bohemian theme are their new decorative baskets (and we all know you can never have too many of them!) made in Rwanda.
The evolution of chenille continues with Sanura – a white-on-white lattice pattern, exquisite when paired with black and white cushions and throws. I seriously love this one!
Despite all this, the brand, a family-owned business based in Melbourne, say minimalism is also still a focus, with the simple design of Hemsworth, a grey marle cotton jersey, comfortable like your favourite lived-in t-shirt.
Other styles this season include the signature pure linen range, printed digital textures, floral, art-inspired abstracts and quilted geometrics, all in contemporary, neutral colours.
The Linen House Winter 2017 Collection is available at leading retailers and department stores nationally and online from next month. For stockist details or call 1300 350 886.
Spring into summer style with the latest collection now available at Forty Winks stores nationally. Combining craftsmanship, quality and comfort, detailed finishes feature throughout the inspired collections with upholstered and timber frame combinations, fully upholstered beds, timber suites, playful kids’ designs as well as discreet storage solutions to create inviting sleep spaces for your home.
Your perfect bedroom
Cino
Representing classic design at its best, the Cino is beautifully tailored with a curved wing detail feature and button detail tracing the bed head arc. The Cino bedside tables and tallboy complement this feature masterpiece perfectly, with solid teak in a natural stain, slender legs and curved edges.
Tara
Bring a modern edge to your bedroom with the Tara. Clean contemporary lines are softened by the bed’s curved base feature, angled solid pine feet and the beautiful upholstered treatment in Oatmeal with button detail. Shown here with Cino bedside tables and tallboy.
Crisp
Constructed from recycled pine, the Crisp suite features multi-coloured stained treatments giving it a truly unique, one-of-a-kind look and feel.
Charlize
Timeless construction and a classic design make the Charlize bedroom suite a lasting investment for your home. Fine craftsmanship ensures a comfortable sleep space, featuring retro-inspired bracing on the legs and a caramel and black colour tone.
Sierra
The Sierra’s impactful solid mindy wood (also known as white cedar) stained in warm chocolate tones, also features metal accents making it both rustic and refined.
Emery
The Emery ticks all of the boxes on a kids’ bedroom checklist, with this single-over-single bunk featuring a space-saving gas lift. Each space can be tailored with signature pieces, such as a bookcase, desk, toy box and much more.
Jasper
With a playful sense of maturity, solid pine feet and a fully upholstered classic design, finished with button details, the Jasper’s a stand out option for any kids’ bedroom space.
Noah
The Noah’s high bedhead and foot-end adds a hint of drama, while the straight lines and white finish create a clean canvas so you can personalise your kids’ hangout.
Florence
Available in crisp white, the Florence suite will soften any room with its curved lines and classic details. The sleigh style bed comes with a convenient book shelf (we love it!) at the end. Fun acrylic diamond-cut handles, or subtle knob-style handles are available on request.
Given the myriad of cushions available on the market, it is not surprising how overwhelming cushion selection can be. Choosing shape, size, colour and pattern can be a daunting task. Le Marc has curated a beautiful collection of quality cushions designed to create a very personal touch for your sofa, armchair or bed. Here, Le Marc’s design team has compiled a few insider tips to help put together a selection of cushions to suit your styling requirements.
On the sofa
When dressing a sofa, we often apply the principle that less is more. Create a balanced and harmonious look by considering your colour palette and then compliment it with your cushion choice.
Combining neutral tones with a pop of colour or a bold design adds interest and vibrancy. Build a base of neutral cushions that marry in with the tones of your room before adding texture, pattern or colour which creates a more personal touch to your space.
For a living setting we would recommend using two 55x55cm cushions at both corners of the sofa. This will help anchor the sofa. Ground your cushions with a simple neutral tone that matches your colour palette. The second cushion should add colour and/or texture to create a story. Complete the sofa with a single hero cushion in the centre that is bold in colour, pattern or texture. This is also a really great place to add a smaller lumbar, 45x55cm shaped cushion.
The hero cushion can be mirrored on surrounding armchairs or window seats to create harmonious balance in the room. If you are seeking more diversity in the room, choose cushions that complement the colour of the cushions used on the sofa but play with the design and texture.
On the bed
In a bedroom, the goal is to create a well-balanced, layered look for the bed. Start with larger Euro sized cushions at the back in a solid colour, then layer with smaller 55x55cm cushions to introduce pattern and colours that work back with your bedspread. Finish with a single central cushion with a brilliant design or pattern that will create an interesting centrepiece for the setting.
Colour
In terms of colour palette, for winter, we have seen a trend towards the luxurious rich tones of chartreuse, fuchsia, teal and burnt orange in velvet finishes, which add instant warmth and texture to your space.
As the weather starts to lighten for spring, it is a great excuse to play with colour and use the outdoors for inspiration. Bright pops of Azure blue and tropical green will invite the warmer months and a breezier feel into your home.
Quality
Finally, quality is key. Your cushions should reflect your beautiful furniture. Invest in cushions that hold their shape and can be used for years to come. The purpose of the cushion is to accent your furniture not detract from it, and just like an elegant piece of jewellery finishes an evening gown, the right cushion can provide the perfect finishing touch for your interior environment.
—Le Marc is a new collection of simply beautiful cushions offering colour, texture and luxury for your home. Using stunning hand-selected European fabrics and premium feather inserts, Le Marc’s diverse range of cushions will compliment any interior space. Free shipping throughout Australia.
When I heard Fantastic furniture were offering custom upholstered bedheads, in a wide range of fabrics and a choice of three designs, all for under $200 and made right here in Australia, I thought they had to be seen to be believed! I mean, that’s crazy money, right?!
The Classic design
So they let me see for myself and I couldn’t be more impressed with mine in my bedroom! I went for the modern and simple Sleek design in Premium Marcy Grey (RRP $199). Many of you commented on it in my recent bedroom makeover pictures.
The quality is great, it’s comfortable to sit up against (I have been known to use my laptop in bed now and again…) and it really does not look like it would cost less than $200! So I’m really excited to share with you that treating yourself to a custom hero piece for your bedroom is now within everyone’s reach!
Ordering online is a great experience too. You can order up to five free fabric samples (there are 100-plus to choose from, patterned and plain, standard and premium) to be sent to you so you can be sure you’re ordering the right colour and fabric for your room (I’d really recommend this). But you can also see a mock-up online of what your choice of design and fabric might look like.
You can expect to wait 4-to-6 weeks for your order and delivery is $75. If you don’t already have them, brackets to attach it to your ensemble bed will set you back an extra $35. The only downside is that they are currently only available in queen size.
The panelled Fashion design
You know what price is better than $199 though? Free! One lucky reader will a bedhead of their choice, delivered. To enter, complete the form below by midnight AEST on Sunday 3 July 2016. Good luck!
Disclosure: Fantastic Furniture gifted me the bedhead for review purposes. Positive coverage was not guaranteed and this is, as always, an honest review.
Sleep in style and embrace the change of season with the latest Forty Winks Autumn/Winter bed range.
Highlights include Geo, a tasteful Solid Victorian Ash and veneer blend featuring built-in shelving, and Accent Luxe, a beautifully upholstered bed frame with an elegantly curved bedhead highlighting subtle stitch detail. The later also offers the practicality of discreet storage, with the option of a front two-drawer base or gas lift function.
Other styles include Yarra, an African Oak hardwood blanket box suite, Cubist, a versatile design featuring reversible bedhead and interchangeable bedside tables, and Austin, a retro-inspired suite showcasing the unique natural grain features of Mango Hardwood Timber.
Forty Winks offer plenty of options for the littlies as well – Flinders features metal accents and rough sawn pine to create a stylish and playful kids zone. Seasons gives you a playful choice of white, aqua, orange and royal blue details on the bed head, bedside tables and tallboy, and Quinn is crafted from Solid Victorian Ash with its own stamp detail on the bed head, creating an edgy, urban appeal. Last but not least, Lexicon is the ultimate in practicality – a bed head with embedded shelving unit, built-in LED light, sensor switch, and foot-end draw mean that kids will have no trouble keeping their rooms neat and tidy.
Considering your bed is generally the largest single item in the room, the difference a stylish bedhead can make to your bedroom is immense. And there’s no doubt upholstered bedheads just keep getting more popular.
Now Fantastic Furniture have released a range of affordable, customisable bedheads, designed to make choosing a bed that is perfectly suited to your space and style needs easy. Craig Evans, national visual merchandise manager, says: “Many people are switching on to the fact they don’t have to be an interior designer to showcase their own style and create a look they want for their home.”
Following on from the success of their MyChoice fabric sofa range last year, the bedheads come in three designs, with more than 100 fabrics to choose from.
Sleek (above) offers a controlled and minimalist look. It has a timber frame and padded foam layer upholstered with the material of your choice, meaning you can make it fun, simple or sophisticated based on your personal preference. Priced from $149.
Fashion (above) is the current-trend option, featuring smart panelling and a pulled-in upholstery design. This is bold enough to make the bedhead the focus of the room, should you desire, but also simple enough to allow it to blend into the overall room. Priced from $179.
Finally, there’s the Classic. My personal favourite, it has an elegantly curved design that makes it the perfect combination of traditional homeliness and simple sophistication. Suited to pretty much any room, its countered shape and layer of padded foam make it comfortable as well. Priced from $199.
Craig believes the range allows customers to “create the bedroom of their dreams, styled just how they like it”. Considering the difference a well chosen and beautiful bedhead can make to the overall appearance and atmosphere of a room (not to mention the enjoyment of sleep!), having a customised bed certainly is a great first step to the dream room.
All at under $200 for queen size and Australian made, these are definitely a bargain!
All the bed heads are adjustable to two heights (129cm or 144cm) and attach to your ensemble bed base using a universal bedhead bracket. All come with a six-year frame and support warranty. Visit www.fantasticfurniture.com.au for further information.
Brosa is a new and exciting designer furniture retailer where you can explore Australian designed pieces online. With a great range of unique designs in premium Warwick fabrics, Brosa has made access to designer furniture easier than ever before.
The business has just launched Design-A-Bed, a simple online tool that helps you effortlessly create a bed frame that reflects your own unique style. Everything is easily customisable to your own taste with the click of a button, including size, style, and fabric. Don’t spend another moment in a showroom hunting down the perfect bed – create it hassle free in your own home!
Once you have completed your Design-A-Bed, you have the option to refine and fine tune your design in case your design was a little too ambitious! Not only can you make a bed that fits flawlessly into your home, the price of your custom bed won’t break the bank.
Brosa is excited to announce that one lucky reader will win their very own designer bed of their own design using the Design-A-Bed system. Entering is simple: to win, just fill out the form here. Competition closes 5 pm on Thursday 3rd March.
Brosa launches three new furniture designs a week, with a combination of classic pieces and modern flair from local and international master craftsmen.
Brosa is proud to make designer furniture a reality for Australian homes – by operating differently to traditional retailers. Expensive markup from importers, wholesalers and high-end showrooms are eliminated entirely to keep the cost to the consumer down. With Australia wide shipping and a seven-day no questions asked returns policy, your purchase is guaranteed to be stress-free.
We were really happy when we heard Feliz Home had a new collection to share with us!
Co-founder Melissa Alessi says: “We are so proud of the quality we have achieved and the designs we have added to our core range. Feliz’ designs continue to be playful for kids, with a sophistication and simplicity in our designs for teens and adults.
“Layer as much or as little colour and fun as you wish and enjoy knowing that our designs have been drawn by hand, screenprinted by hand and sometimes painted by hand! Not only are the designs new but the family is growing. We have added a bunch of beautiful new products and styles to the range.”
We particularly like the freehand spots of Sprinkle Sprinkle, which comes in charcoal, fluro pink or gold. Fun pillowcases feature text like buenas noches, siesta/fiesta, yeah/nah, happiness and love.
We think the range is fun without feeling too childish or bright and it’s really up to you how much colour and fun you layer up. We also love how you can mix and match many pieces.
After years of working in product development for large companies and not-for-profit organisations, and the birth of their children, Melissa, along with Jane Forbes, decided there was no better time than to join forces and create something that was truly them. With light hearts and industrious hands they decided to create a brand that reflected how they felt: feliz (happy)!
Using organic and sustainably produced fabrics, their designs are lovingly hand screenprinted using water-based inks, in their studios in Geelong and Melbourne, VIC.
