Rugs – Add Character, Charm and Finesse to Your Living Areas

Rugs – Add Character, Charm and Finesse to Your Living Areas

by | Dec 18, 2019 | Our Projects

Rugs –

Add Character, Charm and Finesse to Your Living Areas

Rugs – add character, charm and finesse to your living areas. They are versatile, free-standing and decorative.

Carpets, on the other hand, cover the entire room; wall-to-wall and are fixed to the floor. They are predominately regular in shape; i.e. rectangular and square.

  1. Rug Sizes

Common rug sizes:

Small Rugs – 120 x 170cm

Medium Rugs – 160 x 230cm

Large Rugs – 200 x 300cm

Extra Large – 240 x 330cm

Oversized – 300 x 400cm

Runners – 75 x 300-400cm

2. Choosing the Rug Size for the LIVING ROOM

  •  As a rule of thumb – all objects in the living room should fit on the rug. This will visually differentiate the area, especially in open plan living areas.
  • Always leave space between the wall and furniture.
  • If all the furniture cannot fit on the rug, place at least the front legs of chairs and sofas on the rug.

3. Choosing the Rug Size for the BED ROOM

  • Using your bed as a sizing guide, the rug should extend 45 -60cm beyond all sides.

    4. Choosing the Rug Size for the DINING ROOM

    • The rug should be large enough for the table and chairs to fit on even when guests are seated at the table.

    5. Choosing a Rug Style

    • Choose a rug style to suit your lifestyle and your home.
    • Gauge the amount of traffic in the area.
    •  Who else will be using the area; eg Children and pets?
    • What is your style – what colours do you favour; what are the colours of the room?

    6. Rug Types

     Flatweave Rugs

    • Rugs are woven on a loom and have no pile.
    • They are best used for decorative purposes layered on top of another rug.
    • If used in traffic areas, it is recommended to use a rug pad or underlay to keep the rug in place.

    Natural Fibre Rugs

    • Rugs are flatwoven from natural fibre such as jute, sisal, coir and seagrass.
    • These rugs need regular cleaning and spills should be dealt with immediately

    Heat-set and Polypropylene Rugs

    • These are your best all-rounder rugs. 
    • Great for high traffic areas.

    Pile Rugs

    • Made from wool and silk, synthetic fibres such as acrylic and polypropylene.
    • These are high-quality rugs and can last for years if well cared for.
    • Rugs include Persian designs and modern Shaggy.
      (Shaggy rugs are, uneven pile rugs. They are super soft and would complement any home decorating style.)

    Wool Rugs

    • Wool rugs are soft and richly textured.
    • They add warmth and are ideal to use in bedrooms and especially baby rooms.
    • Wool is a natural water and dust repellent fibre.
    • Wool rugs are pleasing to the eye and excellent wool rugs to have.

    Outdoor Rugs

    • Outdoor rugs are usually made from polypropylene and other synthetic fibres.

    • They are sturdy and practical.

    • When used outdoors they can be hosed down.

    Hide and Sheepskin Rugs

     

    • These rugs, because of their diversity, shape and colour are great for decorative purposes.

    7. Rug Shapes

    Unlike carpets that are predominant in their shape, rugs are more versatile –

     

    • Rectangular Rugs – the most common and versatile shape.
    • Round Rugs – great for dining room, bedrooms and small tete-a-tete areas.
    • Runners –used mostly in hallways and entrances

    8. Rugs –Add Character, Charm and Finesse to Your Living Areas

    Because of their size, texture, diversity and colours, rugs can be utilised as a decorative item in living areas around your home.

    • Property Stylist use rugs when staging homes for sales to visually identify and maximise space.
    • Layer Rugs – If you have a specific area or feature you want to highlight layer a smaller rug on top of a larger to direct the eye to the specific space.
    • Layering with different texture rugs adds character to the space.
    • Rugs with tassels and fringes add finesse and texture.
    • Use bold and patterned rugs on top of a neutral rug to draw attention to an area you want to highlight.
    • Hide rugs look epic when layered on top of square or rectangle rugs.
    5 Really Easy Steps to Refurbish Your Kitchen and Add Value to Your Property

    5 Really Easy Steps to Refurbish Your Kitchen and Add Value to Your Property

    by | Dec 11, 2019 | Our Projects

    5 Really Easy Steps to Refurbish Your Kitchen and Add Value to Your Property

    An old tired looking kitchen will put potential buyers off when selling your property. It is, therefore, a good idea to refurbish your kitchen to add value to your property.

     Without spending a lot of time or money to update your kitchen here are 5 Really Easy steps to refurbish your kitchen and add value to your property

    1. Bench Top

    • Using Sugar Soap, scrub all areas to remove dirt, oil and grease. Yes, even under the overhanging benchtop edges. 
    • Give the benchtop a fresh coat of paint – Dulux Renovation range has a range of renovation benchtop products. 

     

     

    2. Cabinets, Shelves and Hinges

    • Repaint cabinets, preferably in neutral colours. Neutral colours lighten up areas and make them look more spacious. 
    • If the cabinet doors are in poor condition they can be replaced with new ones.
    • Replace broken hinges.
    • If the wood is damaged and cannot hold the new hinge screws use an epoxy repair systems such as “Selleys Knead It”. The epoxy adheres to the surface, hardens and retains the new screws in newly drilled holes.
    • Damaged and stained shelves can easily be replaced.

     

     

    3. Handles, Lights and Taps

    • Fix dripping taps.
    • Replace tapware with modern stainless steel ones.
    • Replace drawer and cupboard handles with new modern ones that will both complement and accent the refurbished cupboards.
    • Repaint the ceiling if need be.
    • Swap out old fashioned kitchen ceiling lights with new modern LCD downlights or pendant lights.
    • Install under-cabinet lighting. This will enhance kitchen features.

     

     

    4. Flooring

    • Sand and polish worn out floorboards.
    • Update the floor space with ceramic tile or light laminated floorboards in a timber look.

     

    5. Curtains

    • Replace the curtains with neutral colour horizontal blinds.

    Kitchen Refurbished                                                                                                                                   

    BEFORE

    AFTER

    Paint Colour – How Do You Make The Right Choice And Not Regret It Later?

    Paint Colour – How Do You Make The Right Choice And Not Regret It Later?

    by | Dec 4, 2019 | Our Projects

    Paint Colour –

    How Do You Make The Right Choice And Not Regret It Later?

    Choosing the right paint colour can be daunting, to say the least. There are so many colours and tones to choose from.

    So how do you make the right choice of paint colour and not regret it later?

    For starters – choose and buy the right type and quality of paint for the job.

     

    Generally, you would use latex based paint for indoor walls, and oil-based paint for the skirtings.

    High and semi-gloss paint is good for easy cleaning, but they are shiny and would therefore not be ideal for the living or dining room areas. They will be good for the kitchen and kids’ playroom areas though.

    For most of your home, use paint with a matt finish.

    MAKING THE RIGHT CHOICE OF PAINT COLOUR.

    You cannot go wrong with lighter and neutral colours.

    But don’t we all want to add some punch colour and vibrancy to a room?

    Yes, we do, BUT not every hue will work well in every room.

     So, before buying the colour you like, here are a few things to consider.

    1. Primary and secondary colours complement each other.

    The colour wheel will give you a good idea as to which colours go well together.

     

    2. The eye perceives colour in relation to space

     

    •  Darker colours, on the other hand, will make a smallish room look smaller.

    3. Choose different Shades of the Same Colour

    • Choose different shades of the same colour to create visual interest. For example, paint one wall a dark yellow colour and the other walls a softer creamy yellow colour.

    • Consider colours as they appear in nature.

    4. Punch up colours are bold colours

    • Use these colours sparingly – they can be overpowering if used excessively or predominantly.
    • Interior decorators tend to incorporate punch up colours in decorative cushions, throws and other accessories.

    • Use these colours to accentuate a feature wall or area.
    • You are not alone on this journey of choosing the right colour for your home. Interior decorators and home stylist are very knowledgeable, and they can give you sound advice regarding colours and home styling.
    • Paint supply shops will also be able to guide you regarding paint colour choices.

     

    Test Colours First

    • Get paint samples from your local paint supplier or hardware store.
    • NB: ALWAYS test the paint colour on the WALLS and area you are going to paint before finally choosing the colour.
    • Paint a patch of undercoat 30cm x 30cm in more than one spot of the room.
    • Paint the colour of your choice over the undercoat. Leave to dry. Paint another layer – this will ensure you get the proper saturation.
    • Leave the areas to dry well.
    • Live with the colours for two days or so before deciding – bearing in mind natural light influences the way you see colour.

    Initially, this may seem an unnecessary step, but you will be glad you did. This small step will save you time, money and repainting.

    How Does Natural Light Influence Your Perception Of Colour?

    How Does Natural Light Influence Your Perception Of Colour?

    by | Nov 27, 2019 | Our Projects

    How Does Natural Light Influence Your Perception Of Colour?

    A significant role-player in the presentation of colour is natural light

    Natural Light Will Affect Colours

    • Always consider natural light when choosing a colour for a room.
    • The amount of sunlight beaming into an area will change during the course of the day and the season.
    • Artificial light influences colour too, depending on the type of bulb you use.

    South-Facing Rooms

     

    • Natural Light in south-facing rooms is cool and bluish. Therefore, avoid using colours with a green or grey base. Use warm, soft shades of white and yellow-based colours since they reflect light.
    • Avoid using pure white. It will make the room look cold and clinical.
    • Use strong bold colours to accentuate focal areas.
    • Accessorise with a wall mirror; mirrors reflect light.
    south facing room

    North-Facing Rooms

     

    • Natural light in north-facing rooms will make dark colours look brighter and lighter colours will glow.
    • A great way to capitalise on the ambience of light would be to create a modern look with simple and elegant colour schemes, accentuated by pops of bold colour.
    • Bold colours can be introduced by using accessories artwork, vases and decorative cushions.
    north facing room

    “Everywhere in Australia, the ideal aspect tends to be north or northeast – the very best, according to McGrath, is precisely 10 degrees east of due north – to let there be light.”

    READ MORE

    Artificial Light

    Artificial light influences colours and if you notice something amiss about the colour of the paint in a room at night don’t repaint. Change the light bulb.

     

    Incandescent Light Bulbs – produce a warm, yellow-amber light, causing reds, oranges and yellows to become more vivid. Simultaneously blues and greens will be muted.

    Fluorescents Light: – enriches blues and greens.

    Halogens: Perhaps the best choice of all lights. These mostly resemble natural light.

    LEDs: – though LEDs don’t produce the same rendering effect compared to other lights, they are long-life energy-efficient lights. Some LED bulbs are colour adjustable.

    Test Colours First

    • Get paint samples from your local paint supplier or hardware store.
    • NB: ALWAYS test the paint colour on the WALLS first. 
    • Paint a patch of undercoat 30cm x 30cm in more than one spot of the room.
    • Paint the colour of your choice over the undercoat. Leave to dry. Paint another layer – this will ensure you get the proper saturation.
    • Leave the areas to dry well.
    • Live with the colours for two days or so before deciding – bearing in mind natural light influences the way you see colour.

    Initially, this may seem an unnecessary step, but you will be glad you did. This small step will save you time, money and repainting.

    Ronel and Nicolene are Property Styling and Decorating experts and love to help people style their properties.

    They provide great reno tips from their own renovation days and share awesome decorating tricks.

    Leave us a comment or ask any questions through our Instagram or Facebook account or email us at info@letsrevamp.com.au. We would love to help you.

    Call us now on 02 9659 2556, Monday to Friday or MAKE AN APPOINTMENT

     

    Unexpected and Overlooked Space Saving Places in Your Home

    Unexpected and Overlooked Space Saving Places in Your Home

    by | Nov 16, 2019 | Our Projects

    Unexpected and Overlooked Space Saving Places in Your Home

    look for potential space saving spaces

    At some stage, we all need extra space in areas of our homes. You’d be surprised to learn how overlooked and unexpected places can provide extra space.

    Check for Potential Space Saving Areas

    • Take a tour around your home and look for areas that may have space-saving potential.
    • Don’t ignore the small spaces – with a little innovation they can be transformed into space-saving storage space.
    • Built-ins, nooks, low ceiling areas, corners and stairs are such potential areas.

    1. Save on Wall Space – THE FRAME

    We all have televisions in our homes. You cannot miss seeing them. They are predominantly featured in our living area.

    Optimise wall space and enhance your living area with THE FRAME. You will likely become the envy of family and friends.

    When not watching TV, you will be able to strut beautiful artwork or photography on the television screen instead.

    Television Off

    The Frame Comes On

    2. Save on Wall Space – TV MIRROR

    Disguise your television as a mirror. Similar concept as The Frame, only this time your television becomes a framed mirror reflecting natural light and surrounding area.

     

    Television Off

    The TV Mirror Comes On

    Bunker bed steps serve as space saving cabinets and seats

    3. Unexpected and Overlooked Home Space Saving and Storage Spaces –  KIDS’ BEDROOM

    • The Midi Sleeper

    In our blog 8 Super Great and Easy Tips for Creating the Perfect Kids’ Room and Having Fun In Doing So – we featured beds with amazing space-saving features.

    Steps leading up to a bunker bed are transformed into storage and space-saving cabinets.

     

     

    • Out of Sight Storage Space – Under the Bed

    To utilise the space under the beds, store items in suitable storage containers.

    You will be glad you did, since not only have you made use of the available space, but the container and items are out of sight too.

    4. Unexpected and Overlooked Home Space Saving

    Spaces – UNDER THE STAIRS

    There are many ways to utilize the space under and around a staircase.

    Especially when you live in a small unit or apartment, utilising this space would be invaluable.

    So how do we go about utilising this area and space?

    a. Decorating

    b. Make it Functional and

    c. Designing

     

     

    a. Let’s DECORATE

    Use the available space at the steps, or the walls in the immediate vicinity to add decorative items to make the area look warm, welcoming and homely. 

     

     

    Use decorative items to make the entrance, wall and staircase look homely and welcoming

    b. Let’s make it FUNCTIONAL

    The space around the staircase can be used for practical and functional purposes. Add a chair, a buffet, cloak stand, umbrella stand, a bookcase, a small desk, a chest of drawers etc.

    Adding functional items to the staircase area provides more storage facilities.

     

    lounge area styled in close proximity of staircase.

    c. Let’s DESIGN

    The overlooked area around the staircase lends itself to so much more than just being a way to reach the upper floor. It has the potential to become the focal point to your home.

    The best surprise is that the space becomes functional and adds finesse to your home. 

    When it comes to selling your property, the entrance to your home will immediately initiate the desire to buy with potential property buyers.  A well presented and functional staircase area adds allurement to your home.  

    Do you live in a unit without a garden – no problem you can create a beautiful indoor garden space under the stairs. 

    The only bathroom in your home is the one upstairs – no problem you can create one under the stairs.

    Wish you had a study area – under the stairs will work extremely well.

    No place to store your much-loved bicycle – under the stairs there is plenty of room.

    Need a little me time – design a cosy nook to escape to.

     

     

    use succulents for indoor gardens

    The possibilities are endless to create a garden under the staircase.

    Good quality Artificial grass and plants look very authentic.

    Use pebbles and decorative items to create a beautiful indoor garden.

    If you prefer not to use artificial plants, succulents are the preferred and best choice.

     

     

     

    bathroom under the staircase

    An unexpected and overlooked home storage space you may not have thought possible –  a bathroom under the staircase!

    study area under staircase

     

    bicycle storage under staircase

     

    cosy nook under the stairs