SEASON'S SENSES
When I first read about Hygge I connected with it immediately as I have a very similar philosophy when it comes to design. Our homes are sanctuaries, our safe places where we can be our most relaxed and comfortable selves. They are necessary retreats from the outside world and this is never more true than in the winter when our natural instincts encourage us to hibernate…
The Danish philosophy of Hygge, pronounced ‘hoo-guh’, has been gaining popularity here in the UK for the last couple of years. I see the word everywhere online and in the shops. The term loosely means ‘coziness’ however this is not meant in an external or material way. It is not as simple as a few knitted blankets. Hygge is more of a psychological sense of coziness, a feeling of warmth - a calm, good feeling in the soul. The feeling you get when you read a book in front of a fire with a hot chocolate, or share a night in with a bottle of wine between friends. When I first read about Hygge I connected with it immediately as I have a very similar philosophy when it comes to design. Our homes are sanctuaries, our safe places where we can be our most relaxed and comfortable selves. They are necessary retreats from the outside world and this is never more true than in the winter when our natural instincts encourage us to hibernate.
The process of designing a space that allows for this ‘cozy’ environment goes beyond aesthetic. It involves all the senses. By considering the experience of a room on multiple levels it is possible to create an atmosphere conducive to deep relaxation and calm.
TEXTURE & NATURE
Texture and natural materials are key. During the winter we tend to spend more time indoors and less time outside. Therefore it is really important to bring nature indoors in any way we can. The warmth of wooden furniture, both visually and to the touch, is noticeably different to that of glass or metal. Collect some pine cones to decorate with and of course, for those celebrating - put up the Christmas tree! (I love to get a Norway spruce as it not only looks beautiful but also smells stunning).
Combining thick-knit and fine-knit natural fiber blankets in different neutral tones is an easy way to introduce texture to a room. Fleece rugs are also a great way to incorporate a different natural texture into a space.
Photo via The Fabulous Fleece Company
Photo source unknown
Photo via Nkuku.com
LIGHT
The days are shorter and our hours of daylight are often dimmed by thick layers of grey cloud. It can feel oppressive and gloomy. I combat this by trying to find whatever natural light that I can. When the sun is hard to find, I turn to fire. The warm glow from a candle or an open fire has an innate comforting quality. Hurricane lanterns are a great way to house candles of different shapes and sizes in a safe way if you don’t have a working fireplace or wood burner. Candleholders and lanterns with cutouts are also a very effective way to introduce texture through shadow. I remember seeing some wall lanterns similar to the candleholders below for the first time when I visited Morocco a few years ago. During the day I had no idea what they were, they seemed like a pretty plain wall decoration. But at night, when they were lit, it was like magic. The patterns of light created by something so simple were stunning.
Photo via Zenza
SMELL
Smell is so important when it comes to the experience of a room, especially over the winter period. The smells of an open fire, freshly cut pine and gingerbread baking in the oven evoke feelings of warmth and comfort (and hunger!). If you’re not a fan of hoovering up the needles of a Norway spruce, or if you don’t celebrate Christmas, an easy way to introduce the fresh smell of the outdoors is to add sprigs of pine or cedar to a winter garland or flower arrangement. I also suggest investing in a good quality scented candle or reed diffuser with notes of wood and spice.
Photo via Shibang Designs
My main piece of advice when designing a home for winter is to avoid anything artificial, anything that doesn’t feel, smell or look real. Focus on atmosphere, nature and warmth and you can’t go too far wrong!
ENTERTAIN IN STYLE
A lot goes into throwing the perfect party at home, whether it be a dinner or something more lively. The most important factor is creating a home that you are proud of and that you feel comfortable in. That energy immediately transfers onto your guests and it’ll instantly feel warm and inviting…
A lot goes into throwing the perfect party at home, whether it be a dinner or something more lively. The most important factor is creating a home that you are proud of and that you feel comfortable in. That energy immediately transfers onto your guests and it’ll instantly feel warm and inviting.
The first thing to think of when designing a home for entertaining is how you use the space. Think about the flow of the space. Where would you like the centre of the party to be? The kitchen? Or the living room? Or evenly split between multiple rooms? Once you have figured that out you can then focus on setting the scene and creating the right environment for your guests to interact. I tend to make the kitchen the more lively hub of the party and the living room a more relaxed space where everyone can sit down and chat.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
I always think about first impressions when it comes to designing a home for entertaining. Areas such as the house approach or the hallway can often be considered a low priority, however it’s these areas that your guests see first. Creating a hallway that is beautiful as well as functional is hugely important. When building a new house or renovating, try to include a good-sized cloakroom or storage closet - it’ll save all that running up and down the stairs to the coat mountain on one of the beds!
Bespoke hallway storage and wine unit by Saal Design
Source: Pinterest
TRANSFORMING SPACES
As a designer I love it when spaces have been designed intelligently, offering multiple functions and diversity. If you love to entertain then consider creating a space that can be transformed. Internal glass screens and doors are extremely effective. They give the option to create open and light spaces or to create partitions and privacy. They are also a wonderful architectural feature. External glass screen and door solutions are also perfect for extending spaces, bringing the outside inside and vice versa, perfect for when the weather permits a party to sprawl outside.
Source: House & Garden Photographer: Paul Massey
Source: House Envy Photographer: Morten Koldby
FURNITURE
I try to make sure that there are plenty of places for people to sit when I entertain. It’s not really practical (or affordable) to have a bunch of extra chairs in storage just for parties. Be considerate of this when picking your furniture. Console tables can be great for discreetly storing stools under. Poufs and ottomans are also easily incorporated into most room designs and are good for creating levels in a space as well as a place to sit.
Another way to use your furniture cleverly is in your choice of tables. Nest side tables are great for creating extra surface space for drinks or snacks. A statement coffee table is also an effective way to add surface space as well as create a focal point.
THEATRE/DRAMA
There is a lot of theatre that goes into entertaining. One of the key ways to create this drama is in the lighting design. Set the scene by turning off, or dimming, all the main lights. Use your table and floor lamps to create interesting focal points. Try to avoid using bulbs with a Kelvin colour higher than 4000K as they will look harsh, softer yellow bulbs are much more atmospheric. One simple thing to remember is to light candles, regular and scented (although make sure the scent isn’t too sickly or overpowering). If you have a fire place, light it or if it’s too warm for a fire then just have the wood set up in place. Finding interesting or unusual lanterns are also great for introducing light in a more dramatic way. The right lighting can make even the most unkempt places feel welcoming.
Source: Porta Romana, available at Saal
Source: Zenza, available at Saal
If you are interested in any of the products above or would like to arrange a design consultation please contact us by calling 01926 334 556 or by emailing info@saaldesign.co.uk
BOLD INTERIORS
With all the grey skies and monochromatic days I wanted to seek out inspiration in the form of colour and pattern; to shake up the system and discover something new. I returned to photos of a trip I took to Marrakech towards the end of last year. They were full of life, bright colours and innovative design...
The last few months have been cold, gloomy and wet. Spring is a time for light and colour and new beginnings but it’s been difficult to get into the spirit while playing this game of Russian roulette with snow storms and rain. With all the grey skies and monochromatic days I wanted to seek out inspiration in the form of colour and pattern; to shake up the system and discover something new. I returned to photos of a trip I took to Marrakech towards the end of last year. They were full of life, bright colours and innovative design. They reminded me that although making bold choices can often feel daunting, the pay off when done well is the greatest.
STRONG COLOUR
Colour is probably one of the first things I think of in relation to bold interiors. Opting for dramatic colours over relatively safe lighter neutrals can feel like a risk, but a strong wall of colour can be incredibly effective. Darker hues help create a feeling of space while also creating contrast, allowing other colours and textures in the room to pop. Just like a black box theatre, dark walls also allow you to invent a dramatic and impactful space through clever lighting.
Brighter colours with high levels of pigmentation used cleverly alongside more neutral colours can be very exciting to play with. Pairing flashes of zesty limes or tangerines with greys or whites can create an energetic and dynamic environment and of course - intense blues with bright white have always been a winning combination.
TILES
I have been seeing some really interesting use of tiles recently, in kitchens and bathrooms in particular. Tiles are a great way to add some pattern and character to a room. I especially like these examples of more traditional Islamic and Spanish tiles alongside contemporary fittings. The bright colours and graphic patterns paired with simple solids create a look that is bold and unique without being overwhelming.
Image via Tim Barber
Geometric tiling is also a good way to make a statement. Tiling really is an opportunity for artistry. I find mosaics and ceramic work incredibly inspiring. Beyond the skill and craft, I think it is their architectural history that captivates me the most. Hexagon and herringbone tiles are great shapes to add interesting bold lines into a space while maintaining sophistication.
FURNITURE
Being bold with your furniture is all about stepping away from the run of the mill and being brave and unique in your selection of strong statement pieces. Bright sofas or armchairs are are very effective in order to make an impact in a room however colours aren’t the only way. Finding or commissioning items of furniture that are truly individual is another way to achieve a strong look.
Image via Love Your Home
Image via Julian Chichester
ARTWORK
Large scale artwork is a great way to make a statement. Dramatic photography, whether stunning landscapes or beautiful portraits can be very striking. Colour and texture in artwork are also things to consider when selecting bold pieces of art. Splashes of colour attract the eye while textures offer a more visceral experience. Even in small spaces, picking abstract pieces so big that you can see swipe of the paint brush, creates energy.
Photo/Artwork: Marcus Aitken
Artwork by Francoise Nielly
Check out our Pinterest board for more Bold Interiors inspiration!
A SAAL CHRISTMAS
The run up to Christmas is always a busy time here at Saal Design. Everyone is working to get their homes looking perfect and beautiful for the festive season and we try to do everything we can to ensure they do - in the early years I spent many Christmas Eve’s up ladders hanging curtains just in time for the big day!
The run up to Christmas is always a busy time here at Saal Design. Everyone is working to get their homes looking perfect and beautiful for the festive season and we try to do everything we can to ensure they do - in the early years I spent many Christmas Eve’s up ladders hanging curtains just in time for the big day!
One of my favourite Christmas activities is putting up the decorations and designing our Christmas window. At home, our decoration scheme doesn’t change much year on year. When it comes to our tree I am very much a fan of chucking everything on it, multicoloured lights and all. The only item not allowed is tinsel, that is where I draw the line! I love how the tree becomes a scrapbook full of memories, ornaments made by the kids, given by loved ones or passed down through the family. It’s fun and personal and I wouldn’t have my tree at home any other way. However, for the Saal Design window I get to unleash my designer and curate something a little different.
This year I wanted to create a window that was luxurious and rich. I wanted drama and sophistication. Seeing this stunning fabric (below) from Zoffany gave me my starting point. The vibrant blues and emerald greens are a feast for the eyes and act as a perfect statement piece.
The jewel-like colours of the fabric made me think of treasure. Alongside a panel painted in a Mylands deep green, this gave me the perfect backdrop to showcase these elegant golden framed nest side tables (below) - a product I am extremely excited to use more of in 2018.
With the key elements in place I then had some fun designing the cushions. Simple yet opulent silk and velvet cushions act as gems and, with the addition of a ribbon, become stacked presents! The only last job was the elf work of decorating the tree using decorations of deep green, zealous blue and warm metallic to unite the whole scheme.
I hope you had as much fun as we did decorating for the holidays. Pop by the showroom to see the finished result or to ask about any of the products featured - we also have mince pies!
In the meantime, all of us at Saal would like to wish you a very Merry Christmas and magical New Year!
Please note: The studio will be closed for the holidays from 22nd December until 2nd January. Please send any enquiries during this period to info@saaldesign.co.uk or leave a voicemail on 01926 334 556 and we'll get back to you in the new year.
THE PERFECT BEDROOM
The bedroom is one of the most important rooms in the house. Recent studies have shown that people are starting to spend more time in their bedrooms than in their living rooms. It is a room that can have a big impact on our physical and mental well-being and it is important that this is taken into account during the design process...
The bedroom is one of the most important rooms in the house. Recent studies have shown that people, whether they are relaxing, working or sleeping, are starting to spend more time in their bedrooms than in their living rooms. This is especially true now that Autumn is upon us and the nights are drawing in. It is a room that can have a big impact on our physical and mental well-being and it is important that this is taken into account during the design process.
THE BED
As the name suggests, the bed is the most important element of the room. We spend a third of our lives in bed and the quality of the rest of our time depends completely on the comfort of that third. The mattress is where the majority of your money should be spent and should be seen as an investment. Get the best mattress you can afford, you won’t regret it. I recently discovered that a company I deal with, ‘Robert Langford’, make mattresses so comfortable I almost fell asleep on one in the middle of the Decorex trade show floor. However, if you're limited by budget you can still find luxurious comfort by combining a less expensive mattresses with a topper.
Photo: Artilleriet Linen: Caravane
Image via Unknown Source
The next essential item is sheets. When we sleep the body naturally cools itself down to help us achieve deeper relaxation. Therefore, it is important for air to circulate so that we don’t overheat. 100% natural materials will allow your body to stay cool and breathe - cotton sheets are great, linen sheets are even better. Take a look at Caravane and Society if you are really serious about your bedding. Their products are stunning and feel amazing. Caravane in particular have a beautiful range of colours. For those looking to spend a little less, check out H&M…I know this fast fashion retailer isn’t the most obvious place to look for quality bedding but surprisingly they have beautiful 100% linen sets for extremely reasonable prices. We can also manufacture bespoke linen if you can't find what you're looking for on the high street.
COLOUR
Our sleep space should be a sanctuary. A place to settle our minds and unwind. An important step towards achieving this is making sure the colours work in harmony. Finding inspiration in natural stone and wood is a great place to start. A neutral scheme of whites, creams and warm greys always work well as a base, especially if the room receives a lot of natural light.
Design & Photo: Elizabeth Roberts Architecture & Design, PC
Design & Photo: Amber Interiors
Alternatively, if your room doesn’t get much light then it is usually better to take the tone darker. Darker colours absorb shadows and don’t need as much light to look their best the way lighter colours do. They blur the boundaries between the floor and wall, creating an intimate yet expansive atmosphere. Deep rich hues of green, blue and grey are best for creating a relaxing atmosphere. Avoid anything too intensely vibrant as these can have the opposite effect, causing the body to feel engerized and unsettled.
Little Greene, Scree 277 & Shallows 223
Image via Fromental
LIGHTING
Creating the perfect bedroom atmosphere has a lot to do with lighting. Soft and warm lighting is great for calming the system down in the evening. Where possible I recommend a dimmable light fitting for ultimate control. The ideal set up involves ceiling lighting and a couple of bedside lights. Wall sconces with swing arms or adjustable heads are great if you enjoy reading before bed as they allow you to direct the light. Of course, candles and lanterns are also a beautiful way of introducing a natural and relaxing glow.
Design & Photo: Elizabeth Roberts Architecture & Design, PC
Image via myscandinavianhome.com Photo: Janne Olander
ACCESSORIES
Once the essentials are sorted, it’s time to have fun with some decoration! Scatter cushions and headboards are opportunities to get creative and add a bit of colour. Go natural and rustic with some reclaimed wood or go extravagant and luxurious with upholstery and studs. A throw across the end of the bed is also a great way to add some texture.
Image via Lowes
Image via The Sofa & Chair Company
Make sure that your use of accessories is minimal. One of the easiest ways to create a perfect bedroom is to avoid clutter. A minimal, clutter-free bedroom helps the brain recharge and is proven to reduce stress. Keep things simple and use your space wisely.
Check out our Pinterest board for this post for more Perfect Bedroom inspiration!
INSPIRATION: WOOD
Wood is definitely one of my favourite materials to work with and something that constantly inspires me. I think that the authentic purity of wood is something that is hard to find in other materials. There is a certain comfort in creating with a material that has been used and been consistently useful for centuries...
Wood is definitely one of my favourite materials to work with and something that constantly inspires me. I think that the authentic purity of wood is something that is hard to find in other materials. There is a certain comfort in creating with a material that has been used and been consistently useful for centuries.
BESPOKE FURNITURE
At Saal Design we have been lucky enough to be able to create some beautiful bespoke furniture and woodwork for our customers. The wood used and crafted has enriched every design, whether it be by giving it a strong foundation, a magical solution or simply that indescribable wow factor.
IN THE BEDROOM
I recently saw these wooden headboards whilst I was searching for some fresh ideas and instantly wanted a willing customer to design one for. In relation to my previous ‘Old Meets New’ post a lot of these are rejuvenated pieces of woodwork which add a beautiful unique quality to each of the rooms.
A GOOD TABLE
I love a good table and I find it hard to beat a well-crafted wooden one. It is something that can make a bold and practical statement.
FLOOR
Of course one of the best features in a house can be the one that everyone walks over. A wooden floor can give so much to a space. I recently had a new wooden floor in my living room and upon completion the whole house felt like it had been transformed. At the moment, I am really liking the wider panels and innovative finishes.
TRUST IN WOOD
Unlike in fashion, when a new trend comes along every 6 months it is not so easy in interiors to simply ‘get a new wardrobe’. The aim is to find those staple items that one will love for years and years. Wood is one of those staples. It is adaptable and reliable and a material that I’m sure will continue to a inspire me as a designer for many years to come.
EASTER
I love Easter. For me, it has all the comfort of a family Christmas without all the stress…what could be better? Recently, I’ve been embracing the holiday more and more and I think it’s a really good excuse to have a bit of fun at home. Here are some of the things I do to get in the mood and really make Easter weekend an occasion...
I love Easter. For me, it has all the comfort of a family Christmas without all the stress…what could be better? Recently, I’ve been embracing the holiday more and more and I think it’s a really good excuse to have a bit of fun at home. Here are some of the things I do to get in the mood and really make Easter weekend an occasion:
EGGS
My favourite easter decoration has to be the classic egg- from the beautiful speckled ceramic to the bright and bold. I love to incorporate them into a spring flower arrangement or have them nested in bowls around the house. This decoration is all about subtlety, be careful not to over egg it. (I had to use that pun somewhere!)
COOKING
One thing that can give your home that extra special touch is something that no designer can draw up or include on paper- the smell of good old home baking. We love to get creative with our baking at home during Easter so I thought I’d share some of our favourite bakes that make Easter Afternoon Tea even more delicious.
SIMNEL MUFFINS
Ingredients
250g mixed dried fruits
grated zest and juice 1 medium orange
175g softened butter
175g golden caster sugar
3 eggs , beaten
300g self-raising flour
1 tsp mixed spice
½ tsp freshly grated nutmeg
5 tbsp milk
175g marzipan
200g icing sugar
2 tbsp orange juice for mixing
mini eggs
Method
- Tip the fruit into a bowl, add the zest and juice and microwave on medium for 2 minutes (or leave to soak for 1 hour). Line 12 deep muffin tins with paper muffin cases.
- Preheat the oven to fan 180C/ 160C/gas 4. Beat together the butter, sugar, eggs, flour, spices and milk until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes) – use a wooden spoon or hand held mixer. Stir the fruit in well.
- Half fill the muffin cases with the mixture. Divide the marzipan into 12 equal pieces, roll into balls, then flatten with your thumb to the size of the muffin cases. Put one into each muffin case and spoon the rest of the mixture over it. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until risen, golden and firm to the touch. Leave to cool.
- Beat together the icing sugar and orange juice to make icing thick enough to coat the back of a wooden spoon. Drizzle over the muffins and top with a cluster of eggs. Leave to set. Best eaten within a day of making.
AMERICAN SUGAR COOKIES
Ingredients
132g unsalted butter, softened
225g superfine sugar, or granulated sugar, processed in blender or food processor for 30 seconds
½ tsp. Salt
1 large egg
1 large egg yolk
2 tsp. Vanilla extract
½ tsp. Almond extract or emulsion, optional
375g plain flour
Method
Cream butter, sugar and salt until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes with mixer set at medium speed. Add yolk, beat well. Add whole egg, vanilla and optional almond extract and beat until well-incorporated. Add flour; beat at low speed just until flour is mixed in; do not overmix. Divide dough in halves or thirds and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate until firm, at least one hour and up to 2 days.
Preheat oven to 190°C. Dust work surface and rolling pin with flour. Roll dough to 1/4″ thick, sprinkling with additional flour as needed to prevent sticking. Cut into desired shapes and place on parchment or silicone-lined pans. Bake in preheated oven until cookies appear dry on the surface and are light golden brown on the edges, about 10 minutes (very large cookies may take up to 12 or 13 minutes). Remove from cookie sheets to cooling racks and cool completely before decorating.
FLOWERS
Bring in the flowers and catkins and create some colourful arrangements. Have some fun with it!
OTHER POSTS
The bedroom is one of the most important rooms in the house. Recent studies have shown that people are starting to spend more time in their bedrooms than in their living rooms. It is a room that can have a big impact on our physical and mental well-being and it is important that this is taken into account during the design process...