Get the most out of your home with these expert tips and creative tricks
A PLACE FOR EVERYTHING
Built-in shelving helps to keep sitting rooms and home offices organised and, while it works best in existing alcoves, shelves can be added in any space. As well as making a dedicated home for books and paperwork (Oka is the go-to for pretty box files that artfully blend form and function), they create an opportunity to display an arrangement of trinkets and framed photographs, too.
WORK SMARTER Look to expert brands such as Sharps and Neville Johnson for bespoke solutions. Take care to consider the number of shelves you need (as well as their individual heights and widths) and factor in whether you’d like cupboards underneath. These can be useful for keeping less attractive everyday items hidden away but should account for a maximum of one-third of the height of the shelving.
The Home Collection Shaker fitted storage in Dove, from £1,500, Sharps. For similar furniture and accessories, try Sofology and Heal’s
IN THE ZONE
Rooms often perform more than one function and, for many, that’s especially the case in the new world of hybrid working. If you don’t have a separate home office, it’s important to carve out a space dedicated to ‘WFH’. Don’t forget the little things – house plants will bring a sense of life to conference calls, while attractive stationery can liven up your to-do list.
WORK SMARTER Consider using a screen, freestanding open shelf unit or paint to separate off a neglected corner – the flash of blue shown above, for example, creates a visual distinction. Choose a desk with in-built storage and, if you sit all day, invest in an ergonomic chair.
BRIGHT SPARK
Not all lighting is created equal – let us illuminate you…
WALL LIGHTS are ideal in kitchens and bathrooms – lights can provide a flattering glow (when pointed upwards by a mirror) or cast a focused light on surfaces (when pointed down towards a countertop). Metal shades are easier to keep clean than fabric ones.
TABLE LAMPS are perfect for sitting rooms and bedrooms – use them on side tables for an ambient light when a central pendant would be too harsh. A colourful or patterned shade will give existing bases an instant makeover.
