The emerging Japandi design trend melds the Japanese and Scandinavian modern interior design styles. Featuring a brilliant combination of Scandinavian functionality and Japanese minimalism, the design style is deeply rooted in simplicity and comfort. Although Japan and Scandinavia or the Nordic countries of Denmark, Sweden, and Norway are distinctly different in culture and geographically different, they are designed on the same principles. The origin of this design style dates back to 1853, when Japan lifted its border policies after years of seclusion. Shortly after this event, Danish designers and creatives started visiting Japan and got fascinated by Japanese oriental aesthetics.

Designer: Ward 5 Design

Also known as the Scandi-Japanese style, the Scandi design follows the notion of “hygge,” meaning coziness, where the home should be your sanctuary that can exude elegance, conviviality, and well-being. The Nordics wanted to add warmth into the interiors so that their homes could feel peaceful and comfortable, especially throughout the cold and dark winters. It aims to improve everyday life and creates coziness with a mix of materials like velvet, leather, knits, and crochets and pays attention to furniture details. The Japanese design follows the concept of “wabi-sabi,” which values contentment and slow living and celebrates the beauty of imperfections. The fusion of “hygge” and “wabi-sabi” determines the critical elements of the Japandi design style. Since both these design trends have many standard features, their core philosophy is to merge the rustic Nordic décor with the sleek Japanese design and create a Zen vibe.

The prime objective of the Japandi design style is to design with intention. This style creates a warm and welcoming space with a fusion of clean lines with functional style. Moreover, its beautiful and practical design encourages one to stay close to nature. These design elements will help you to master your interiors and exteriors.

Beautiful Craftsmanship

Furniture design forms one of the most important components of a Japandi interior design style. Look for artisan pieces of furniture with a timeless appeal so that one can use them for years to come, as the focus is quality instead of cheap throwaway pieces. Japandi furniture design makes a statement without adornment, the details are handmade, and each piece is unique, and there is no similarity between the two parts. Wood is the most prominent material in this design typology since it is readily available in Japan, and the country is known for its mastery of timber. Every piece is intentionally chosen in a particular space so that it can add meaning and purpose. For example, low-height furniture is evocative of the concept of being close to the earth.

Designer: Manh Duy

Warm Palette

The Scandi palette is gray, white, and brown, while the Japanese palette incorporates autumnal hues and colors from the earth and the sky. Create an earthy feel with muted pearl gray and sky blue colors with hints of pale green. The colors of nature play wonderfully with the organic material of Japandi-style space. A bold color can be used as an accent in the decorative accessories and throw pillows to complement the wood tones. These colors can be layered to mimic the look of a natural landscape.

Designer: Nada Hasham

Sustainability

There is a focus on sustainability, the use of natural materials, and eco-friendly aesthetics. Japandi does not believe in the one-time-use culture, and the options should be environmentally safe. Avoid plastic and look for home décor items in natural materials like wood, stone, and woven textiles.

Both cultures have a deep fondness for nature and sustainability. In Japan, there is a psychological exercise called “Shinrin-yoku,” which means “Forest Bathing,” whose purpose is to inspire people to reconnect with the country’s forests. The Norwegian people follow the concept of “Friluftsliv,” also known as “Outdoor Life,” which is about spending time and enjoying the outdoors.

Designer: Sipal-WAFAI.Architecture

Use Organic Materials

Japandi focuses on natural materials like unfinished wood and incorporates organic materials like rattan, wicker, cane, wood, and bamboo, along with comfortable fabrics like cotton, linen, and hemp. A mix of materials creates a serene space. Moreover, the design style is distinctly organic, where the ceramics, bowls, and even lighting can be in organic materials.

Designer: Delicate Decor

Introduce Plants

Plants and greenery work as genuine accessories and can bring in a sense of outdoor living. They purify the indoor air and form a decorative accent. The Japandi style has a profound respect for nature and focuses on less but bigger sizes of plants. To complete the picture, beautify the interiors and create a nature-inspired décor with houseplants like hanging vines and bonsai trees or beautiful plants in large ceramics. Plants create a warm and welcoming look and soften a minimalist interior.

Designer: Japandi Lights

Decluttered Spaces

Japandi emphasizes comfort and simplicity, making every item functional yet aesthetically pleasing. There is a focus on openness and zero clutter so that the space looks clean, fresh, and minimal. An open-plan layout exudes a tranquil space connected with the outdoors to create a brilliant indoor-outdoor connection. If there is less space for storage, use natural storage solutions like wicker baskets, boxes, and trays. Use bamboo or folding screens to camouflage clutter.

The bedrooms are minimalistic, with minimal window dressing, few art pieces, and comfortable bedding. A good curation of art pieces, mirrors, rugs, tables, and lamps infuses coziness without creating a cluttered look. Additionally, a Japandi bedroom supports rest and encourages a tech-free space that encourages sleep and minimizes distraction.

Designer: Hilight Design

Bring In Natural Light

Natural light creates a bright, airy interior and is the gateway to the natural world. Japandi integrates large windows to bring in plenty of natural light while the reflective surface of neutral-hued walls bounces the natural light. If there is less natural light, one can use mirrors to reflect more light. The rooms should be softly lit for a tranquil interior. Consider industrial lights to add a Scandinavian vibe that can infuse warmth with handcrafted pendant lights or retro pendants in copper finish. Use floor lamps for a warm and cozy glow.

Designer: chrisfluence

Stripped Furniture

Japandi furniture uses different materials, textures, and colors, infusing peace, serenity, and a comfortable feel. One can accentuate the space with a chair or coffee table in a bold color. Create contrast with dark and light wood tones as Japan uses dark wood Cedar, Red Pine, and Cypress, while Scandinavia uses light wood oak, mahogany, pine, and teak. This is a great way to create visual interest, bring the space together, and create a warm and harmonious feel.

Designer: Hishida Komuten

Sumptuous Textures

Japandi design infuses warmth and interest using sumptuous textures and fabrics. This can be achieved in the curtains, upholstery, and rugs, which will infuse warmth. A big cozy rug in natural materials is a must-have in a minimalist bedroom as it provides a warm underfoot whenever one enters or exits the bed.

Designer: Veronique (Veer.enmeer)

Balance

The Japandi style does not believe in symmetry but uses different furniture pieces that can create an organic feel. One must pay attention to the visual weight of each piece as this design style aims to create balance and promotes relaxation.

Designer: Stewart-Schafer

A fusion of Japanese minimalism and warm Scandinavian interiors has emerged as one of the most popular style combinations of the decade. These tips will help you to create your favorite look.

The post Everything You Need to Know About the Japandi Design Style first appeared on Yanko Design.

Let’s admit it. We live in a world where the increasing effects of climate change and the scorching summer heat is unbearable in many areas. As the temperatures continue to rise, it can be challenging to keep your home cool during the summer without relying on an air conditioner. In addition, the summer heat can lead to heat strokes and exhaustion, making it crucial to implement these methods to keep your home cool without using an AC. By reducing our dependence on air conditioning, we can not only lower our electricity costs but also contribute to a more environmentally friendly approach.

Designer: Cortney Bishop

Use Curtains and Drapes

Designer: Helena Jonsson

Leaving windows uncovered during peak sun hours allows a significant amount of heat to enter your home. Research shows that about 75 percent of sunlight transforms into heat that can penetrate indoors. By covering your windows, especially if they are north or west facing with curtains and drapes, you can prevent the harsh rays of the sun from entering the interiors. Opt for blackout curtains as they act as protective barriers, reflecting sunlight and reducing heat by approximately 33%.

Install Double-Glazed Windows

Designer: U Fit Sash Windows

Double-glazed or insulated windows provide excellent thermal insulation, reducing the amount of heat that enters or exits your home. These modern aluminum or uPVC windows consist of two glass panes filled with inert gases like xenon, argon, or krypton, creating an insulating barrier between the indoors and outdoors. This is an effective way to enhance your air conditioner’s performance, reduce power consumption, and minimize your carbon footprint.

Unplug Appliances

Plugged appliances have the tendency to emit heat even when they are not in use. Hence remember to unplug appliances such as TVs, laptops, dishwashers, washing machines, and dryers, as they can emit heat and contribute to the increase in the indoor temperature. If you are planning to buy a new air conditioner, consider one with a high energy-star rating that can reduce the running cost of the AC.

Install Awnings

Designer: The Terrace Room Company

By installing awnings above windows, you can significantly reduce the amount of heat that comes in. Awnings are available in four shapes, namely sloped, domed, concave, and convex; they can be fixed or retractable and can provide external shading to the windows. They are available in fabric, metal, and polycarbonate.

Insulate Doors and Windows

Weather stripping and caulking around doors and windows is a cost-effective method of preventing heat from entering the indoors. Hence if you notice any gaps in external doors and windows, seal them using weather stripping.

Keep Windows Closed During the Day

Designer: Classy Homes

If the outdoor temperature is higher than the indoor temperature, it is advisable to keep the windows closed. This helps maintain a cooler environment inside your home for a longer period. However, if the temperature cools down at night, you can open the windows before going to bed or early in the morning to let in the cool air. Remember to close the windows when the temperature starts to rise. Additionally, close the doors of any unused rooms, especially if you have a central air conditioning system, to optimize cooling efficiency.

Cross Ventilate

Designer: Romina (toujourspaloma)

Cross ventilation keeps your indoors cool by allowing free airflow through doors and windows. If you have two windows that are opposite or diagonally opposite each other, open them to promote cross ventilation. However, this should be done early morning or after sunset so that the cool breeze enters and facilitates cross-ventilation. It’s a great way to reduce indoor temperature and minimize the need for air conditioning.

Switch on the Fan

Designer: Sofucor Fan

Turning on the fan creates a comfortable indoor environment. In dry climates, you can use an evaporative cooler, which adds moisture to the air and reduces indoor temperature.

Use Exhaust Fans in the Kitchen and Bathroom

Designer: Khushi Suriya (Matter of Space)

Switching on the exhaust fan in the kitchen helps eliminate hot and moist air generated during cooking. Similarly, using the bathroom fan helps expel hot and humid air from indoors to outdoors, especially after a steamy shower.

Swap Incandescent Bulbs

Designer: Carmen Cyrzan

Incandescent bulbs waste approximately 90 percent of the energy they consume. Consider switching to CFL (compact fluorescent lamps) or LED (light-emitting diode) bulbs. Not only do they help keep your home cooler, but they also reduce your electricity bill, have lower carbon emissions, and do not contribute to global warming. During the day, it is advisable to maximize the use of natural light by refraining from switching on the lights.

Install a Dehumidifier

Designer: Xiaomi

In humid climates, high humidity levels can make the summer months uncomfortable. Therefore, investing in a dehumidifier can help maintain a comfortable environment in your home during these humid months. It’s important to note that a dehumidifier does not directly reduce the summer temperature but rather controls the hot and sticky humidity that contributes to discomfort. These devices extract moisture from the surrounding air, and it is recommended to keep indoor humidity below 60 percent.

Consider Insulated Window Films

Designer: Window Makeover

Consider installing insulated window films, as it forms an insulating barrier between the indoors and outdoors. It helps in reducing energy costs by preventing the penetration of sunlight indoors and allows one to enjoy outdoor views.

Bring in Plants

Designer: Time with Liberty

Plants and trees help keep the surrounding air cool via the process of transpiration. Planting vines that grow along the windows can provide natural shade and help block sunlight that heats the external walls. It is advisable to grow shady deciduous trees along the boundary of the house as they cast shade over the home in summer and bring in sunshine throughout winter.

Choose Organic Materials

Designer: Piglets in Bed

Good sleep is essential for rejuvenation, so one must not let heat disturb your sleep. Switch your bed linen seasonally, as materials like silk or polyester are best suited for cooler nights. Consider using light-colored bed linen and cotton sheets, as they are breathable materials that promote good ventilation and airflow. Additionally, these natural fibers help you stay cool while sleeping. Opt for soothing shades such as white and pastel colors, as they reflect light and absorb the least heat. On the contrary, darker shades absorb heat and radiate it around the home.

Invest in a Cooling Pillow or Pad

Designer: Nantong Jialang Home Supplies

A cooling pillow or pad can draw heat from the head and is a great way to reduce or eliminate night sweats.

Bare the Floor

Designer: FCML Coimbatore

Carpets and rugs can raise the indoor temperature as they absorb and retain heat, radiating it back into the room. Consider removing carpets and rugs to reduce the indoor temperature.

Paint the Terrace White

Roofs receive a significant amount of heat from the scorching sun. One effective measure is to paint the roof with white reflective paint so that it reflects the heat of the summer sun. This is highly recommended for houses directly under the roof of a high-rise building.

Create a Green Roof

Designer: Green World Studio

Create a green roof or add plenty of potted plants. A roof garden helps to block heat as the plants and soil in the potted plants effectively absorb the heat that hits the roof. It is one of the simplest ways to prevent heat from entering through the roof and keeps the indoors cooler.

The implementation of these strategies will surely help individuals maintain a cool environment, minimize the use of air conditioning, and effectively beat the summer heat.

The post How to Keep Your Home Cool Without AC first appeared on Yanko Design.

Designer: Aamir & Hameeda

The under-stair area presents a unique design challenge due to its awkward triangular shape. Whether you need extra storage or require an additional room, the under-stair space allows you to maximize every square inch of your home. However, with creative ideas, one can transform the under-stair area into a functional and visually stunning zone. So, unleash your creativity and give a new lease of life to the under-stair area of your home.

Designer: Mel Boyden

1. Create an Entertainment Zone

Designer: Bex Designs and Decorations

If you love entertaining, then use the under-stair area for creating a built-in bar alongside a buffet counter for serving food and added convenience. Arrange the shelves by the height of the liquor or wine bottles and different types of glassware. Introduce LED strip lights that illuminate the shelves and exude soft, diffused lighting to create a cozy and comfortable atmosphere. This fully-functional entertainment zone is perfect for an open-plan home.

2. A Green Thumb

Designer: Kate Chilver

Maximize the functionality and aesthetic appeal of the under-stairs area with open shelves that are perfect for keeping plants and wicker baskets that add an element of organization and storage. Plants not only add color but are also an affordable and natural way to infuse life and improve indoor air quality.

3. A Cozy Reading Nook

Designer: Camilla Falconer

Drawing inspiration from Scandi decor, the sinuous curves of this reading and resting nook create a cozy and stylish cocoon-like effect. Perfect for curling up with a good book, enjoying some hot coffee, having a long phone call, or listening to music, this nook transforms into a comfortable space ideal for relaxation. The depth of the stair provides ample space for a cozy bed, making it an ideal spot for putting on shoes and creating a feeling of tranquility. To complement this space, add a cozy lamp and good lighting to create an inviting and relaxing atmosphere.

4. Essential Storage

Designer: Denver Real Estate

Maximize your home’s storage potential by utilizing under-stair area. With its deep storage capabilities, this area is perfect for storing everyday essentials and utilitarian items such as scarves, coats, and extra belongings. By organizing this space, you can keep your home clutter-free while keeping everyday items close at hand. Consider creating designated shoe storage, allowing you to conveniently put on your shoes before leaving the house and easily store them upon returning.

5. Introduce a Kennel

Designer: Kimberly Lewis

Optimize the under-stair area in your home by creating a private space for your furry friend. This space can be customized to fit their size and needs, providing a cozy and comfortable spot for them to rest and relax. To keep the space clean and organized, consider incorporating easy-to-clean flooring and storage solutions for their items. In this example, a dog house facade complete with a door, lamp, and mailbox adds an extra touch of charm and functionality.

6. Design a Dry Kitchen

Designer: Blakes London

Transform your under-stair area into a practical dry kitchen with a coffee maker, microwave, and storage space for books and other essentials. With the addition of utility drawers, this space can become a perfect zone for quick and easy meal preparation. Ideally, this area should be close to a refrigerator to minimize walking time and maximize convenience. When not in use, the cabinet can be closed, keeping the area neat and out of view.

7. Incorporate Storage Drawers

Designer: Clever Closet

If you prefer a minimalist approach, consider dividing the under-stair area into several pull-out drawers. Designate each drawer for strategic storage as per your requirements. Pull-out drawers are an excellent choice, as they make deep storage easily accessible and can help extend your pantry space. The use of white drawers can create a clean, streamlined look that does not add bulk to the space.

8. Create a Laundry Room

Designer: Kayleigh Hilbert

Convert the under-stair area into an efficient laundry room with a washing machine and dryer. The shelves make space for storing your laundry supplies, washing powder, and fabric softener. Customized doors can camouflage the washing machine and tumble dryer and keep them looking tidy.

9. Introduce a Powder Room

Designer: Artvalleys

Maximize the under-stair area by creating a functional powder room for guests. When designing this space, ensure there is enough headroom and ample space to incorporate a WC and sink. Make provisions for all the necessary plumbing lines during the construction stage.

10. Storage Cubbies

Designer: Roundhouse Design>/a>

The slant of the stair provides a unique opportunity to create cabinets and racks of various sizes. If the staircase is near the kitchen, it can serve as an extended pantry or additional storage space, with dedicated areas for crockery, plates, and even wine storage. By customizing the cabinets and racks to fit the slant of the stair, you can create a streamlined and functional storage solution that maximizes the available space.

11. Style the Space

Designer: Oh My Edwardian

The under-stair area presents a unique opportunity to add style and visual interest to your home. By introducing a chair, throw, cushions, and plenty of planters, you can create a cozy and inviting space that is perfect for reading or relaxing. Additionally, consider adding a piece of art or decorative element to the space to elevate its overall aesthetic.

12. A Wine Cellar

Designer: Jay Rosen

Utilize the space under your stairs to create a luxurious wine cellar! Show off your wine collection like a pro by transforming the area into a temperature and moisture-controlled room that’s perfect for storing wine. A glass display will enhance the visual appeal of the space, while proper lighting is essential for elevating its ambiance. Opt for wine racks to organize and display your collection stylishly.

13. Incorporate a Built-in Bar

Designer: Parsons Custom Builders

This built-in bar unit is not only smart and stylish but highly functional as well. With a wine chiller, shelves for glasses and accessories, and drawers for storage, it’s the perfect setup for hosting memorable cocktail hours. Its wood finish infuses an element of warmth within the interiors.

14. Kids Playhouse

Designer: SR Fine Home Builders

The under-stairs area is the perfect hidden spot for toddlers to hang out and play with their toys without making a mess in the main living areas. As the children grow taller, convert the space into a functional storage zone with deep drawers or cabinets. Make sure to incorporate good lighting to keep the interior bright and cheerful.

15. Home Office

Designer: Building Culture

A home office is a space that transforms into a functional workspace with the right furniture and storage solutions. This dedicated zone is demarcated with an arch and is perfect for working or doing homework. A comfortable chair is essential to complement the space, along with adequate task lighting to prevent eye strain. Make sure there are plenty of electrical outlets and enough headroom to avoid any unwanted bumps.

16. A Home Library

Designer: Jenny Marrs

Transform your under-stair area space into a home library that can be used for displaying your cherished keepsakes in an organized and clutter-free way. One simple approach is to create open shelving or a bookcase with differently sized shelves, utilizing larger ones for displaying art and plants.

These creative tips will help you achieve the perfect balance of form and function in your home. Maximize the under-stair area; consider incorporating drawers, cupboards, or cabinets to make optimum utilization of the available space.

The post Inspiring Under-Stair Planning and Decorating Ideas first appeared on Yanko Design.

Designer: Kenji Abe for ifuki

As we usher into 2023, it’s time to carry forward the tradition of making customary New Year’s resolutions. Some common resolutions include weight loss goals, financial goals, eating clean, self-improvement, working out, following our passion, and so on. This year, let’s focus on home improvement and make some achievable resolutions for our abodes as we are spending a lot of time indoors. We must ensure that our homes are clean, well-organized, and comfortable to use. Maintaining the house requires hard work and effort, and these tips can help us organize better. So let’s celebrate 2023 with hope and positivity, as these resolutions can easily fit a busy lifestyle.

1. Decluttering

Decluttering is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to bring a sense of clarity and positivity into your home.

• Adopt the minimalist lifestyle. It is not about getting rid of everything but just keeping what you need. We tend to accumulate and hoard many things that we do not require. It takes a little effort to eliminate and donate the extra things. Check whatever you have before you buy more.
• Take some inspiration from the Marie Kondo style of organizing so that whatever product you possess sparks joy. This is a great way to make space for what matters and a Zen vibe.

Designer: Radha Sotomayor

2. Deep clean

It is time to pack all your Christmas decorations as the holiday season is over. Deep clean the rooms and create a maintenance routine to make the home a better and brighter place.

• Device a daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning routine which is easy to adhere to. Various checklists are available online. Choose the one that is best suited for your working style.
• Always keep a basic cleaning kit in each bathroom and kitchen for easier accessibility, quicker cleaning, and keeping the home more organized.

3. Organize your storage

Small habits that we practice every day will help us to stay organized and create a tidy home.

• It is highly recommended to store items of one category together. Demarcate different sections for keeping the toys, electronic chargers, books, clothes, craft supplies, papers, stationary, wrapping paper, and so on. It will become easier to search for things.
• Store your items in boxes, trays, and baskets. Labeling the baskets and containers makes it easier to find them amidst the chaos. Try to store vertically so that all the objects are visible in one go.
• Stop the paper clutter, as envelopes, catalogs, and documents tend to create a lot of chaos.
• Don’t forget to periodically organize the digital clutter of your phone, laptop, and tablet, keep deleting extra emails, photographs and unsubscribing to emails, to name a few.

Designer: Leydi Rofman

4. Clean and Organize the Kitchen

Your kitchen has worked hard during the holidays, so it is time for some deep cleaning and organizing.

• The first step is to empty all the kitchen ingredients and check what you need to keep, discard or donate. Check the expiry date of the non-perishable items and canned tins before buying and adding new grocery items to the kitchen.
• Empty the contents of the kitchen cabinets and divide the storage into items that we use frequently and rarely used items.
• Give a spring clean to all the drawers and cabinets and organize them in a grouping technique that suits your lifestyle. Place the items closest to where their function is performed.
• Neatly organized containers and tins make cooking easier and more efficient.
• Purchase additional storage and organization tools like roll-out shelves, baskets, storage containers, cabinet risers, and drop-downs to improve the kitchen’s efficiency.

Designer: Nancy Eaton

5. Organize your Home Office

Many of us are into hybrid models and work-from-home models, so we must ensure that the home office helps to improve focus and productivity. Also, we must prevent frequent clutter from building up.

• Don’t let the pile of papers and documents create chaos. Create a mail station for incoming and outgoing mail. Categorize the papers into different files, place them alphabetically, or the best way is to go paperless.
• Designate an area for keeping the printer and all the printing supplies. Use the vertical wall space to keep filing systems, hangers, shelving, and whiteboards.
• Organize all the office supplies in containers, drawers, and baskets and keep them out of view so that it imparts a decluttered look.
• Organize the books according to size and color, and genre.

Designer: norse.keeb

6. Invest in Smart and Energy-efficient Appliances

Here is how you can conserve energy and recurring electricity costs.

• Invest in programmable thermostats, smart appliances, and smart lighting to save electricity costs. One can control the heating or cooling of the house via the smartphone application.
• In case you need to replace white goods like refrigerators, air conditioners, and dishwashers, they should be replaced with Energy Star or energy-efficient appliances.
• Replace all incandescent bulbs and CFL lights with LED lights because these lights are highly durable, they are long-lasting, and come with superior energy—efficiency.

Designer: Samsung

7. Healthy Habits and Sustainable Lifestyle

We should be mindful of protecting our climate, and sustainable habits should be the core of our home décor. Some of the best ways to go green and reduce the carbon footprint are as follows:

• Create a clean and restful environment by tidying up your clothes every day instead of throwing them on the chair.
• Make it a point to switch off the lights when you leave any room — turning off the lights when not in use reduces the electricity bills and extends the bulb’s life.
• Reduce disposables, avoid single-use packaging, shop with reusable bags, and avoid prepackaged food by buying from the local farmer’s market.
• Air-drying clothes is more eco-friendly than using a dryer. It not only saves electricity costs but also reduces wrinkles and increases the lifespan of the clothes.
• Improve the thermal insulation of the house by caulking around the doors and windows and weather-stripping. This is one of the best ways to reduce air leakage and a cost-effective way to reduce heating and cooling costs.
• Seal and insulate the heat ducts to improve the heating and cooling efficiency of the home.
• Improve the water efficiency of your home with low-flow showerheads, as they can reduce water consumption by nearly 40% and result in significant savings on annual heating costs.
• Invest in low-maintenance and highly durable materials, as they can reduce the wear and tear of your home and enable long-term cost savings.
• Try composting at home, as it is a process in which organic kitchen and garden waste, like food scrap and leaves, break down into the soil. This is a perfect way to recycle waste from the kitchen and garden and convert it into nutrient-rich fertilizer for the garden.
• Segregate your wet waste from dry waste and place it in bins and bags in places that are easy to access. This segregation makes it easy to further segregate dry waste into different categories.

Designer: Katie Maris

8. Decorate with Plants

Plants are a great way to add beauty and color, it allows us to distress and lower anxiety levels.

• They come with air-purifying qualities that eliminate toxins and maintain good humidity levels indoors.
• Some of the common pollutants include mold spores, bacteria, and VOCs (volatile organic compounds) like benzene, xylene, toluene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene that are usually emitted from chemical cleaners and household products.

Designer: TerraLiving

The post 8 Peaceful New Year’s Resolutions For Your Home first appeared on Yanko Design.

Our homes are the epicenter of our lives and determine our emotional and mental well-being. Off late, mindfulness has entered architecture and interior design and aims at creating calm interiors that nurture the body and mind. As we spend more time at home, we must rethink our spaces and create a space that focuses on wellness. Mindful spaces offer an environment that uplifts our senses and makes our abodes happier and more liveable. It helps us sync with our surroundings, reduces stress and anxiety, and allows us to be at ease.

Desinger: Jun Igarashi Architects

What Is Mindfulness?

Mindfulness allows us to be in the present, aware of what we are doing, and encourages us to pay attention to every decision we make. As per studies, mindfulness ensures an improved quality of life and provides plenty of health and mental benefits, and makes our lives better.

What Is Mindful Decor?

Mindful decor is not designed to impress others but allows us to look inwards, creating a sense of balance and harmony. One can create positive and balanced spaces that respond to the changing seasons with seasonal mindfulness. For example, bring in autumnal hues in the form of cushions, rugs, and bed linen during autumn and create a warm and cozy indoor space during winter. Here is how you can create an indoor environment that helps you feel comfortable and bestows a ripple effect of wellness within your home.

Designer: Grey Deco

Cut the Clutter

A cluttered environment is one of the main causes of stress and anxiety, while a clean, well-organized space helps us stay calm. Get into the regular habit of decluttering your home, donating, or getting rid of things that you do not use or if it does not serve any purpose. Try to reduce electronic clutter, keep visual clutter to a minimum, and ensure that all horizontal surfaces, pathways, and desks are clean. Segregate the storage into different categories and assign a dedicated space for the storage of each item to create a mindful and amicable environment.

Introduce Open Spaces

Consider a furniture layout that makes the space function better with plenty of open space. Opt for streamlined pieces of furniture instead of gaudy and flamboyant designs. This is one of the best ways to bring in an element of calm and spaciousness within the décor. Another advantage is that there is less to clean and maintain.

Designer: Hygge by Kate

Opt For Natural Materials

Go for natural breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and wool and materials like stone and wood. Layering with textures creates a tranquil atmosphere, so introduce texture in the walls and through fabrics used for the upholstery, curtains, and bed linen. Rich textures offer comfort, relaxation, and some softness through the touch and can be introduced with soft fluffy pillows and throws.

Designer: Jaruška

Less Is More

Focus on the essentials and let your furniture and decor be functional and useful to spark joy. Fill your space with minimum pieces of furniture. Recently, there has been an appreciation for handmade, vintage, and expressive art. Make use of clever storage ideas and smartly hide the clutter. Introduce multifunctional pieces of furniture like bookshelves, hidden drawers, storage beds, and some storage baskets.

Designer: Hanna Kotona

Create Serene Zones

The spaces around the home should allow you to unwind and regain balance. In the age of technology, disconnecting from technology might not be possible, so make sure to design serene spaces like a reading nook, spruce up a couch, decorate your balcony, or create a pocket of peace with a meditation corner within your home. Avoid keeping electronic devices in your sleeping space, as it is the space for rest and rejuvenation. Plus, make a ‘me time corner’ where you can explore your creativity or pursue your hobby or workout space and transform it into your zen zone. Finally, address your children’s creativity and let the decor of their rooms reflect their tastes, hobbies, and preferences.

Engage Your Senses

Create a multisensory environment that engages all your senses, like sight, smell, touch, taste, and sound. Therefore, a mindful space emphasizes how things look and pays attention to texture and scents. For example, introduce fresh flowers, your favorite signature scent that can stimulate and transport you to happy places that evoke positive feelings. Likewise, try to create a spa effect in the bathroom with spa-inspired touches like candles, luxurious robes, and towels.

Earthy Color Palette

Colors affect our mood, so choose a cohesive color palette and the right colors according to the functionality of the space. Soft, neutral hues can calm the mind and create a bright, airy look. Choose a color that you are drawn to and that evokes happiness. Avoid vibrant and high-energy colors like red and yellow for the bedroom. Instead, opt for tranquil shades like light blue, grey, green, or lavender in a matte or satin finish. If you want to introduce a bold color, limit it to a single wall or an accent piece of furniture and accessories. Avoid using busy patterns.

Designers: Meg and Sean

Invite Nature

Foster a connection with the natural world with plants and other natural elements that reduce stress and have a decorative appeal. Some of the best plants include snake plants, English ivy, Boston fern, and succulent plants, as they impart warmth and style, eliminate toxins, and improve concentration. If you don’t want to commit to a green thumb, decorate the space with artificial plants. Mimic the feeling of bringing the outdoors with a biophilic or nature-inspired decor. This can be achieved using tropical wallpapers, natural stone textures, a small waterfall, etc. As nothing is symmetrical, invest in furniture pieces having rounded edges.

Designer: Hodsoll McKenzie

Good Lighting

Blur the indoor and outdoor boundaries and bring in maximum sunlight, as it is important for our bodies. Note that sunlight can uplift mood as it increases serotonin levels in the brain, which also helps one to be calm and focused. Open the windows and cross-ventilate the spaces so that the stale indoor air is continuously replaced by fresh outdoor air. When the sun is strong, install sheer curtains so light can filter in. Rearrange the furniture so that it does not block any natural light. If you are working from home, have your desk near a window. Incorporate a warm ambient glow with 2700 kelvin color temperature as an atmospheric glow of dim lighting makes the space feel restful. Note that white cool blue light is above 3000-kelvin temperature.

Designer: Marco d’Aviano Gottschalk

Invest In Comfort

Instead of focusing on aesthetics, go for furniture pieces that are comfortable to use and easy to maintain. Some finishes, like leather, get better with age and are perfect for the couch and lounge chairs. Also, luxurious materials like wool carpets offer optimum comfort and come with a soft and cozy underfoot.

Designer: Josefin Krook

Make Space for Good Memories

Let your home be a reflection of who you are. Surround your home with family photos, travel photos, and sentimental keepsakes reminding you of all the good times and strong relationships. Create a gallery wall with souvenirs, artwork, or powerful thoughts.

So always be in the moment, surround yourself with things you love, and transform your home into a cheerful personal oasis for the mind, body, and soul. Before buying home decor items, ensure they serve a function or a purpose.

The post How to Design a Mindful Home first appeared on Yanko Design.

With urban spaces shrinking, compact homes are integral to city life. Even with restricted square footage, these abodes can offer ample opportunities to improve functionality by using every square inch of available space. With clever planning, one can enhance the sense of openness and prevent the space from looking cramped and claustrophobic. The most significant advantage of compact spaces is that they are easy to clean and can transform into a cozy zen retreat ideal for relaxation. Here is how you can trick the eye and live large within the limited square footage of space.

Consider Scale And Proportion

The scale of the furniture should be as per the size of the room. When selecting your furniture, do not go for oversized options, as bulky pieces of furniture look visually heavy and take up too much precious floor space. Instead, go for sleek and refined pieces of furniture with a limited footprint in lighter wood tones and natural finishes. Note that the space might appear smaller if you place the furniture against the walls. Keep some air between the furniture and the walls for a roomier look.

Designer: Homes To Love

Invest In Low-height Furniture

Choose furniture that sits close to the ground with exposed legs, allowing light, air, and space to flow around it and making the room feel more open. Another advantage is that the vacant space below the furniture can be strategically used for additional storage and keeping the clutter out of view. Some of the short pieces of furniture include ottomans, armless chairs, and low tables, to name a few. Instead of a plain design, choose pieces with intricate details, interesting curves, tufting, etc.

Tip: Invest in see-through furniture, such as a glass coffee table or desk. Clear furniture helps to make compact spaces feel more open and doubly function as a unique design element.

Designer: Daniel House Club

Add A Mirror

A mirror has the potential to open up the space as it allows the light to bounce. It is perfect for any room that lacks a window. Install a mirror on the wall, on the sliding shutters of the closet, or simply place an oversized mirror against the wall to create the illusion of depth. A well-positioned mirror reflects natural and artificial light and makes the space brighter during the day and night. If the mirror is placed opposite to a window, it amplifies the daylight, doubles the outdoor views, and creates a beautiful connection with the outdoor world.

Designer: LVSOMT

Use Breezy Fabrics

Avoid using heavy-weight materials and fabrics for the upholstery as they tend to absorb light. Instead, consider solid colors or printed patterns in a soft and subdued shape. Linen is one of the best materials that offers a sophisticated and timeless look. Dress the windows in lightweight mesh, cloth blinds, or sheer curtains that allow the light to pass. Complement the space with an accent piece of furniture that adds a pop of color and instantly lifts the space. Consider hanging curtains from the ceiling instead of the window frame to make the ceiling look taller.

Designer: Design Public

Go For A Cohesive Colors Scheme

One must coordinate the walls, furniture, and accessories with a cohesive color scheme when designing a small space. Also, paint the baseboard and trims the same color as the walls and ceiling. White walls and ceilings create a continuous space without boundaries, making the room appear tall, bright, and airy. However, an all-white space might look sterile, so add warmth with wood and introduce tone-on-tone colors in the woven upholstery, textured walls, and rugs. In addition, a combination of light and dark accent colors creates depth and the illusion of a larger space. Some colors best suited for compact areas include off-white, sage green, light blue, and gray.

Tip: Dark colors tend to recede, so a dark wall looks further away than it is and creates the illusion of a more extended space.

Designer: Albion Nord

Incorporate Stripes

A low-ceiling room can appear taller with vertical wall paneling or wallpaper with vertical striped patterns. Horizontal stripes on the narrow wall can make the space look wider. This is a great way to enhance the feeling of movement and flow. Select colors that go with the colors of the walls and upholstery.

Designer: Russell Loughlan

Clear Walkways

Move the furniture from the walkways so that it is clear and no one bumps into any furniture. As the longest line of any room is diagonal, you can place the furniture at an angle to create the illusion of a longer space.

Keep It Simple

In a compact pace, too much furniture and accessories might impart a cluttered and claustrophobic look. So let the walls breathe and decorate the space with just one or two large pieces of art. However, if there are some small pieces of art, then place them on a single wall. Finally, decorate the space with a few large and simple accessories. Sumptuous textures like sheepskin rugs, wool carpets, and velvet throws can keep the area cozy.

Designer: Bobby Berk

Get Rid Of Clutter

Keeping the surfaces clean as a tidy and orderly space always feels open and spacious and positively impacts the visual size of the room. Manage everyday clutter and periodically organize the cabinets, closets, or any other space that feels too full. Small knick-knacks can create a cluttered look and make the space feel more compact. So, limiting the décor to 3 or 5 items is suggested when styling vignettes on dining tables, dressers, or coffee tables. Neatly store and organize things on bookshelves, within cabinets, recessed niches, or behind table skirts. Do not forget to invest in vertical storage, which takes the smallest footprint.

Designer: Black and Milk

Introduce Creative Lighting

A combination of natural and artificial lighting can make the space look larger and brighter. Make it a point to keep the windows open to bring in plenty of natural light. Note that multiple light sources expand the space and are perfect for areas devoid of natural light. Create a layered lighting scheme with an overhead pendant light with dimmable control. Beautify the space with wall lights that emit soft lighting. It draws the eye upwards and adds extra height to the room. A combination of floor and table lamps offers task lighting and evenly spreads the light around the room.

Designer: Vale G

Create A Focal Point

Make it a point to introduce a focal point or a star attraction that will draw the eye toward it. For example, introduce a fireplace, a statement chandelier, a console unit, a large piece of art, or a large window with panoramic views that can transform into a star attraction.

Designer: Matt and Jess (The Brain and the Brawn)

Go For Multifunctional Furniture

Sneak more storage into the space with multifunctional pieces of furniture that look aesthetically pleasing and save space. For example, incorporate built-in storage solutions with a sofa bed, a storage bed, or an ottoman with storage that can hide the clutter. With careful planning, the windows can be multifunctional too. For instance, design your window as a cozy reading with plenty of under-bench storage.

Designer: Good Idea Trade

‘Less is more,’ and using minimal elements is a brilliant solution to make the most of limited square footage. With little imagination, you can quickly transform a compact home into a stylish, functional, and comfortable space.

The post How to make your compact home seem bigger first appeared on Yanko Design.

At Yanko Design, we believe in constantly innovating, creating, and evolving. It’s a philosophy that serves as a lifeline for us, and one of the results of this lifeline is the YD x KeyShot Inspiration Hub! The Inspiration Hub is our ‘ever-expanding encyclopedia’ of design work for you to participate in, to inspire designers, and to get inspired by. Created in collaboration with KeyShot, the Inspiration Hub is your one-stop space for inspiration where designers like you can submit your impressive designs and be awarded to stand out in the crowd and to inspire other like-minded designers.

To kickstart your journey and send some motivation your way, we’ve curated some of our favorite minimal furniture submissions from the Inspiration Hub. These unique and minimal furniture designs will motivate you to create something spectacular and submit the design, as a gateway to sharing it with the best of the design world. Additionally, we will also be picking our favorite Design of the Week, Design of the Month, and Design of the Year – every week, month, and year from the submissions on the Inspiration Hub. Keep an eye on our Instagram page and the Inspiration Hub to see if your design gets picked. Fingers crossed!

Click here to Download KeyShot Pro (Use Code ‘KSYANKOHUB’ during installation for full Pro + KeyShotWeb trial) to take your sketch from concept to render!

1. Allieva

Designed by WhynotDesign, this sleek, foldable work desk is meant to fit in any space, making it perfect for small houses and dorm rooms. Despite compromising on size, Allieva is aesthetically pleasing. It takes up as little space as possible and measures only 7 inches deep when folded. The workstation can be set up easily with a simple gesture. It comes with two detachable, multipurpose trays which offer a convenient space to hold accessories when the work desk is closed and become a practical tablet holder during a video call when you flip the desk open.

2. The Loop Chair

Designed by Annabella Hevesi, the Loop Chair is the kind of straightforward and simple furniture piece that instantly makes you fall in love with it, because of how minimally and cleanly it is designed. Built using wood, the Loop Chair has a traditional and archetypical character accentuated with tricky and progressive details that lend an air of character to it.

3. Stretch Desk

Say hello to the Stretch desk. Designed by Teixeira Design Studio, the Stretch desk features a spinning leather bookstand that swivels through a pivot point, enabling the depth of the stand to be changed according to your personal need and requirement. The bookstand can also be flattened on the tabletop, to provide more space for you while you’re working. The various wooden elements of the desk add a rather nuanced and well-crafted feel to it.

4. Tailor Armchair

Designed by SUNRIU Design, what makes the Tailor armchair super interesting, and a rather unique design is that it can be used as an armchair and a desk. If you want to use it as an armchair, you can simply rest and place your back on the raised panel or plank of plywood that is placed at the center of the chair. The raised panel is further supported by a vertical curved panel. These panels function as the back support, allowing you to comfortably sit back against the armchair. If you wish to use it as a desk, you can instead use the raised panel as a tabletop, and fit your legs into the blank spaces created by the intersection of the raised panel with the vertical curved panel.

5. The Form Single Sofa

The Form Single Sofa by SUNRIU Design is a stunning fluid sofa that is defined by a chunky bold structure marked with flowy lines. If you look closely, the sofa looks like a hunk of concrete, and the seating section is a smoothly carved dent, that looks like it will perfectly seat someone’s buttocks. The rear portion of the sofa seems like it could function as a neat hanging spot for your pet as well, allowing you and your pet to sit and chill together.

6. Sushant Vohra’s Stool

Designed by Sushant Vohra, this stool design is pretty cool! It features a concise circular platform that serves as a seating section, with a concrete and clear coated sheet metal volume inserted into it, functioning as a support for the seating area. The result is a visually and geometrically interesting stool with a burst of orange that counteracts the otherwise minimal and simple appearance of the stool.

7. The Bündner Side Table

Designed by the Portuguese architecture and design studio Joana Vilaça Studio, the Bündner Side table is a solid wood table that is artfully inspired by the Swiss Alps lifestyle. It’s a rather interesting muse for a meager table, and not a very common one either. Joana drew inspiration from her own experience of living in Switzerland, where her studio is located.

8. The Chonky Coffee Table

Designed by Frank Brunetti, the Chonky Coffee Table is the perfect name for this piece of furniture! It is chonky, chubby, and occupies a generous amount of space. Its stubby legs and multiple tabletops give the table a unique yet minimal aesthetic. The secondary tabletops on the lower section of the table, as well as the circular one on the primary tabletop, have been given different colors, creating a fun contrast.

9. The Sado Chair

Martin Luu designed the Sado chair as an experiment in unconventional design. Sado’s intriguing form reminds you of a horizontal tree log or horseback, suited for a straddled seated position that encourages a healthy posture. When positioned atop Sado, the chair’s seat rotates freely to enable 360-degree accessibility to nearby objects within arm’s reach. Adjustable leg supports also provide a place for your legs to rest while helping to sustain a leveled spinal position. Sado is an incredible ergonomic option if you’re looking for a chair that encourages and support a great posture!

10. The Savioardi Sofa

Designed by SUNRIU Design, the Savoiardi Sofa, is a big chonky sofa made up of several modular components that are held together by a sturdy belt-like strap. The various components are long and spherical in shape, while a few are more squarish. You can select how many and which components you want to put together, to create diverse seating solutions of diverse sizes. The configurable and modular feature of the Savoiardi Sofa makes it super unique and interesting.

Click here to Download KeyShot Pro (Use Code ‘KSYANKOHUB’ during installation for full Pro + KeyShotWeb trial) to start creating your own design and submit the design to us to get featured on the Inspiration Hub and the Yanko Design Instagram Page.

The post Top 10 minimal furniture to inspire your interior design process first appeared on Yanko Design.

Designer: Gingko Design

A bedroom is not just a place to sleep but also a space for relaxation and rejuvenation. Therefore, lighting is an essential element in creating a peaceful atmosphere within the bedroom. Proper lighting can enhance the aesthetics of the decor and make the space versatile for different activities. Incorporating different lighting fixtures, such as ambient, task, and accent lighting, can transform the bedroom into a functional and calming space. Additionally, layering the bedroom lighting can create a cozy and soothing ambiance. By considering options like ceiling lights, table lamps, or dimmer switches, one can easily customize the lighting as per one’s mood and needs, as it is crucial for creating a tranquil and versatile bedroom space.

Designer: Viktoriia & Vitalii Pukas

• Ambient lighting is essential in any bedroom, serving as the primary source of light that illuminates the space and enables one to navigate easily. The ceiling light is crucial in providing overall illumination and can be complemented with additional fixtures, such as wall sconces or floor lamps, to create a more versatile lighting scheme. To create a soothing atmosphere in the bedroom, it’s best to use soft, dim lighting. This can be achieved by incorporating dimmer switches in the ambient lighting, allowing one to adjust the light levels according to their preference. Dimming the lights at night can create a calming and relaxing ambiance. Incorporating dimmer switches in ambient lighting is an excellent way to create a comfortable and versatile lighting scheme in the bedroom.
• Task lighting is a type of focused lighting that is suitable for activities such as reading or writing. These fixtures are typically positioned near a desk or a reading nook to offer sufficient illumination for specific tasks. The most appropriate lighting fixtures that provide task lighting include portable desk lamps, table lamps, vanity lights, under-cabinet lighting, and pendant lights.

Designer: Nicola Cecutti

• Accent lights are ideal for drawing attention to specific decorative features in the bedroom, such as a picture frame or a design feature. Lighting options like wall sconces and track lights accentuate the space and add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the bedroom decor.
• Bring in plenty of natural light to create a bright and airy atmosphere in the bedroom. Also, sunlight plays an important role in improving the health and well-being of its occupants. However, it’s also essential to have blackout curtains to block out light at night to ensure a comfortable and restful sleep. By combining natural light with effective light-blocking curtains, one can create a perfect balance of brightness during the day and darkness at night in the bedroom.

To achieve the ideal atmosphere in the bedroom, it’s best to use a combination of task, ambient, and accent lighting. The different types of lighting fixtures include portable desk lamps, table lamps, wall sconces, and ceiling lights. Keep in mind that the color temperature of the light bulbs plays a critical role in determining the room’s overall ambiance. Opt for light bulbs with a color temperature of 2700K or lower for a warm and cozy atmosphere. Conversely, for bright and cooler lighting, one should select bulbs with a color temperature of 3500K or higher.

There is a variety of light fixtures that are ideal for use in the bedroom, such as:

Table lamps

Table lamps are an excellent choice for the bedroom, especially for bedside tables. They provide ample illumination for reading or engaging in conversations before bedtime. Having the switch conveniently located nearby ensures that one can turn off the light without having to leave the bed.

Click Here to Buy Now: Anywhere-Use Lamp ($149)

Portable Reading Light

A portable reading light is specifically designed for use while reading in bed. These lights typically feature a flexible arm that can be adjusted to direct light where it’s needed, and they are compact and lightweight. They can be particularly useful for individuals who enjoy reading in bed, as they provide a targeted source of light that can be adjusted to minimize eye strain and maximize comfort.

Designer: DelightFULL

Floor Lamp

A floor lamp can be a great addition to a spacious bedroom, offering both practical lighting and aesthetic appeal. When selecting a floor lamp for the bedroom, it’s crucial to consider the overall décor of the space and choose a shade that complements it and creates a cohesive and stylish look for the bedroom.

Designer: The White Teak Company

Recessed Lighting

Recessed lighting can be an excellent choice for bedroom lighting, as it provides soft ambient illumination without a visible light source. This type of lighting offers diffused light that doesn’t cast harsh shadows, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere in the room.

Designer: Velum Design

Pendant Light

Pendant lights are a versatile lighting option that comes in a wide range of styles and designs. Even when switched off, they can enhance the overall look of the room as a decorative accessory. Pendant lights can provide focused task lighting or soft ambient illumination, depending on their placement.

Designer: IKEA

Chandelier

A chandelier can transform into a striking statement piece for a large bedroom, creating an ornate and luxurious ambiance. Its elegant design can infuse a sense of grandeur into the bedroom. In addition to providing ample illumination, a chandelier can be a beautiful focal point for the room and add a touch of glamour to the overall bedroom decor.

Designer: DelightFULL

Sconces

Sconces or wall lights can be an excellent choice for bedroom lighting, especially in compact spaces where floor space is limited. By freeing up floor space, they can create a more streamlined and spacious feel in the room. Sconces are a popular choice for bedroom lighting as their soft, diffused light can create a cozy and relaxing atmosphere.

Designer: KOL DEALS

Ceiling Light Fan

A ceiling fan with a built-in light can be a practical and convenient option for bedroom lighting and air circulation. These multifunctional fixtures play a dual role by providing both illumination and air movement in one unit, helping to keep the room cool and comfortable. For added convenience, it’s best if the light and fan can be controlled by a remote control, making it easy to adjust the settings from the comfort of one’s bed.

Designer: Overstock

Swing Arm Lighting

Swing arm lighting can be a versatile and space-saving option for bedroom lighting. These lamps are attached to the wall and swing outwards, providing directional light where it’s needed most. Many swing arm lamps also come with an adjustable reading light, making it easy to focus the light for nighttime reading. The ability to pull the lamp from the wall while in bed is convenient and allows one to adjust the lighting without getting up.

Designer: Lamp Plus

Flush Mounted Light

A flush-mounted light is installed directly on the ceiling and creates a streamlined look. The light radiates in all directions, providing even illumination throughout the room. With its unobtrusive design and versatile functionality, a flush-mounted light can be a great addition to any bedroom.

Designer: Kelly Wearstler (LuxDeco)

By following the tips provided, one can enhance the overall functionality and atmosphere of the bedroom with the right lighting. Remember to choose fixtures that complement your room’s size and decor, and that cater to your personal preferences for both style and functionality. With a well-thought-out lighting scheme, one can create the perfect ambiance for any occasion, from reading a book in bed to relaxing after a long day.

The post An Ultimate Guide to Bedroom Lighting first appeared on Yanko Design.

Decorating with metallic accents is trending in the décor space and can add a dash of glamor and panache. From furniture to accessories and wall paint, metallic hues work as a decorative accent making their way into the interior design space. Metallic tones add a shimmering look and can be found in any finish or medium, like artwork, upholstery, and wallpaper. Its reflective surface bounces light back into the room and makes it look brighter and more spacious than it is. However, the art of using metallic tones is to strike the right balance within a space so that your interior doesn’t appear gaudy. Here is how you can infuse glam, sophistication, or visual intrigue into the décor with metallic accents.

Types of Metallic Hues

There are a variety of metal hues to consider, and they can be classified into warm and cool metallic tones. From high to low luster, the different types of metal finishes include polished finish followed by a satin finish, antique finish, and finally, matte finish. The warm metallic includes shades of brass, bronze, gold, and rose gold that are warm and inviting and go well with a warm color palette. Note that gold has always been a symbol of luxury that steals the limelight and has emerged as one of the classiest metallic hues. One can infuse an old-world charm with the golden-brown hues of brass and bronze that look glamorous; it’s a warm and lively metal with a rich patina that infuses elegance and luxury.

Cool metallic includes shades of silver, nickel, chrome, and pewter, offering a sleek metallic aesthetic and going with cool tones and contemporary interiors.

Designer: FORMUS

Functional Hardware

Choose between gold and silver metal for the cabinetry door pulls, door hardware, door pulls, and exterior door hardware. Move a step further and introduce metallic in the knobs and handles of the TV units, drawers, and wardrobes that are available in a wide range of modern, vintage, traditional, and minimalist designs. These shiny functional elements add a wow factor and enhance the overall glamor quotient of the home.

Designer: Aluminr

Furniture

Metallic pieces of furniture, such as a metal coffee table, nesting tables, chairs, and bar stools, add bling to the décor of the home’s bedroom, living room, and other entertainment areas. Don’t be afraid of mixing metals; they provide a sleek and sophisticated look. Let a common design element, like wood, glass, natural stone, or a complementary shape, weave the pieces together when mixing different metal tones. A trick here is to let one metal be the focal point so that it can effortlessly combine with two or more metals that serve as accents to create a synergy. Finally, never clutter the space with too many metal hues. Experiment with a mix of gold and silver hues, as it is a great way to add depth and dimension to the home décor.

Designer: Aura Living

Color Palette

Metal finishes enhance the aesthetics of a white space or a neutral-toned palette. For a maximalist look, combine warm metal with jewel tones or other shades of pink, dark navy, white, and black. The best part about warm metallic is that it is amiable and goes very well with wood and earth tones, especially if it has a little patina. If you don’t prefer gold accents, throw some warm light on the silver finishes to look like gold.

For a chic look, use silver or chrome tones that blend well with shades of gray, white, and sage green. If you want to achieve an industrial look, it is highly recommended to go for galvanized metal.

Designer: Rowen Homes

Lighting Fixtures

A light fixture with a dramatic sheen always makes a good first impression once you enter the room. Warm your space with a gold or copper chandelier that can form the showstopper element in a modern or traditional interior. Incorporate warm and cool metallic tones with light fixtures like bracket lights, chandeliers, wall sconces, pendant lights, and table lamps that also form a decorative accent.

Designer: White Teak

Textiles

Add bling and bring a luxe vibe into the interiors with gold and silver-hued textiles. These finishes add instant class and sophistication to the soft furnishing and upholstery. Metallic threads are used for embroidery and design motifs to highlight the fabric and offer a rich and refreshing look. Use metallic in small doses for the accent pillow, throws, and cushions, and combine it with soft textures like mohair, wool, velvet, leather, and suede to complete the look.

Designer: Kylie Minogue

Look Up To The Ceiling

Install wallpaper and feel glamorous under the ceiling of the entrance foyer, as it is one of the most unexpected places to use metallic hues. One can also consider a metallic-hued grasscloth to add texture and dimension to the space and take the décor to a whole new level.

Designer: Lilly Bunn

Create Balance

The dynamic nature of metallic lends an intriguing contrast and visual depth. With the right balance, the décor can feel elegant and eclectic. Contrast is the key, so pair warm and cool metallic undertones and combine it with the soft textures of the rugs and the upholstery. Pay attention to areas like the kitchen and bathroom, as steel finishes dominate them and make these spaces feel cold. A good way to offset the steeliness of appliances and faucets is to offset the space with bronze finish handles, hanging crockery, and gold pendant lights. If there are too many warm tones in any room, go for a chrome finish pendant light or table lamp, and if the space feels cold, add warmth with warm meal accessories or a statement piece of furniture. In a large room, you can demarcate the area into two zones: one section has more gold, and the other has more silver. Another way to use metals is to create a harmonious look by combining similar metal tones in different finishes or the high and low shine options.

Designer: Nora

Statement Pieces

Accessorize the space with statement pieces of furniture that form the center stage and do not look OTT. Metal adds sparkle and offers a glamorous pop of color that can blend with the most commonly used colors in a well-designed space. Installing a large decorative piece in copper, silver, or gold for a bolder look can add richness and not look blingy. Another metallic trend is introducing a large metal framed mirror, mirrored wall panel, and furniture into the home decor. It mimics the sparkle and shine of polished silver. Its reflective qualities visually expand the space and make it look brighter.

Designer: Scarlet Splendour

Curated Accessories

Start small and strategically introduce smaller metal accessories as they reflect light and impart spaciousness. Metallic can be presented subtly in the tablescape, in bookcases, vignettes, trays, candle stands, and vases that are easy to change and move around. Hang photographs in a golden or silver frame. It works beautifully in the entrance foyer or hallway. Also, one can introduce metallic finish wallpaper with gold and silver accessories to create an exciting composition.

Click Here to Buy Now: Modular Flower Tubes ($149)

Hence, even a tiny hint of metallic adds loads of character and subtle glamor. It’s a great way to add shine and impart an interesting touch to a dull space.

The post How metallic hues can add sparkle to your home décor first appeared on Yanko Design.

Back in the 20th century, a lamp was just a lamp. It had a bulb, a switch, and either a battery or a cable that connected to a plug socket. Today, the term Lamp doesn’t have those simpler definitions. Meet the rather ironically named Boring Lamp – it comes with a power source as well as a built-in battery. It can be both height and angle-adjusted on its sleek base, or detached entirely to be used as a light baton for walking around the house, or a lightsaber for play-fights with your friends, siblings, or kids. The lamp features individually addressable LEDs that shine in a variety of colors (including gradients) and even respond to music, and if all that wasn’t enough, the Boring Lamp’s base comes with a 15W wireless charger for your phone and TWS earbuds.

Designer: The Boring Lamp

Click Here to Buy Now: $99 $199 (50% off). Hurry, only 23 left!

The first thing that strikes you with the Boring Lamp (aside from that name) is the design. It’s slick, to say the least, and features a baton-shaped light attached to a cylindrical stand, with the ability to adjust its angle, tilt, and height. The entire lamp, base and all, is made from metal, giving it a minimalism that the modern tech enthusiast would appreciate, while also allowing the lamp to easily dissipate any heat generated by the 54 high-quality LEDs built into the lamp’s lighting system. The LEDs can be activated by a simple tap on the end of the lamp, and tapping again can let you cycle between warm, cool, gradient, and music-reactive modes, while long-tapping lets you adjust the LED brightness.

The Boring Lamp’s modular, magnetic design makes it easy to install, disassemble, and replace.

The slide rail design allows for height adjustment, and the lamp arm rotates 360° for perfect illumination, exactly where you need it.

The Boring Lamp’s modular magnetic design and unique lamp bracket make it easy to transform into a monitor light bar which you can place above your screen for a space-saving solution.

It comes with a built-in mic that syncs with the beat of your music or even clapping and stomps.

Colors can sync with the colors of movies and games- experience a new level of immersion like you’ve never seen before.

Can also use a battery module to transform into a portable Light Sword.

Where the Boring Lamp really differs from others is in its ability to detach from its base to become a battery-powered wireless light. When you don’t need a table lamp, just unplug the lamp element from its stand and use it as a standalone handheld torch instead of your smartphone flashlight. The lamp also plugs right into its base as a vertical pillar of light, or even onto desktop monitor mounts that let it double as a much more tailor-made light-bar that illuminates your keyboard and workspace without the base eating into your table’s real estate. This versatile approach to lighting allows the Boring Lamp to transform into jus the kind of light you need, whether it’s a warm light to read a book under, a cool light to keep you alert as you send that important email, or just a glowing, ever-changing ambient gradient that dances to music to keep the party going, and to keep your life anything EXCEPT boring…

The name Boring Lamp probably comes from the fact that it’s the antithesis of a ‘smart’ lamp that has its own app and interface. The Boring Lamp doesn’t require an app, given that it works just fine entirely on its own, providing versatility and functionality in the same heartbeat. The lamp does, however, charge your smartphone thanks to a 15W wireless charger built right into its base. Designed to work with a device kept at any orientation, the Boring Lamp’s base can fast-charge your phone or even your TWS earbuds simply by placing them in the charging zone.

Each Boring Lamp is built with a design that’s equal parts sleek and durable. The slim outer frame comes made from aluminum, offering a lightweight design while being able to rapidly dissipate heat, while the LEDs in the lamp are rated with a 60,000 hour lifespan, giving your Boring Lamp more than a decade’s worth of use. The Boring Lamp starts at $79 for its bare-basics version, although for $99 you can grab the lamp along with all its accessories, including the desktop monitor mount.

Click Here to Buy Now: $99 $199 (50% off). Hurry, only 23 left!

The post The ultimate table lamp is perfect for studying, parties, midnight fridge-raids, and can even charge your phone first appeared on Yanko Design.