Painted bookshelves are especially popular in living rooms because they add personality, create visual depth and help tie colour schemes together.

If you’re looking for painted living room bookshelf ideas, we’re sharing design advice on how to choose colours, select finishes and style your shelves so they look curated rather than cluttered.

Related article: How to: Style a bookshelf
Related article: How to create a calm, focused workspace at home

Why painted bookshelves work so well in living rooms

Living room bookshelves are rarely just for books anymore. They often double as a place to display artwork, ceramics, plants and personal pieces that make a house feel like home.

Painting your bookshelves allows them to feel intentional rather than purely functional. It can also help built-in shelves blend seamlessly into the architecture of the room or, alternatively, make them the focal point of the space.

While most of the bookshelves in this article feature a solid colour, there are other creative ways to paint bookshelves. For example, painting the back of bookshelves in a contrasting colour can add depth and help objects stand out.

Whether you have existing cabinetry that’s looking tired or you’re styling on a budget and want to elevate flatpack pieces, painted bookshelves are a simple way to create a designer look. Keep scrolling for all our tips.

How to choose the right colour for a painted living room bookshelf

Now that you’re (hopefully!) convinced painted bookshelves are a good idea, it’s time to choose the right colour.

You would have heard us talk a lot about the connection between colour and emotion, and how the right shade can completely transform the feel of a room.

Let’s take a look at the most popular bookshelf colours. From light neutrals to dark and moody tones, and even bold pops of colour, because after all, you’re allowed to have a little fun with it!

Neutral bookshelf colours

Soft neutrals are a safe and timeless option for painted living room bookshelves. Colours like warm white, soft grey, taupe or beige create a calm backdrop that allows styling pieces to shine.

Neutral painted bookshelves also work well in smaller living rooms where darker colours could feel heavy.

Dark and dramatic bookshelves

If you want your bookshelves to feel bold and sophisticated, dark colours bring the drama!

Deep greens, navy blue, charcoal or even black painted bookshelves add depth and stand out beautifully.

Dark painted shelves work particularly well in floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, library-style living rooms and homes with plenty of natural light.

Tonal or colour-matched shelves

Another growing trend is colour-drenching bookshelves. This is when the shelving is painted the same colour as the walls (and ceiling), creating a beautiful enveloping feel.

This creates a seamless, custom-built look that makes shelving feel like part of the architecture. It’s particularly effective with built-in living room bookshelves.

What paint finish works best for bookshelves?

Choosing the right paint finish for bookshelves is just as important as the colour.

We recommend a satin or semi-gloss finish for shelving because it is more durable and easier to wipe clean than flat paint.

If your shelves will hold heavy books or decorative pieces, a tougher finish will help prevent scuffs and marks over time.

Matte finishes can work beautifully but may require a little more care.

What style of bookshelves work best in a living room?

When planning the design of your living room shelves, one of the best tips is to include a mix of open shelves and closed cabinetry.

Open shelves allow you to display books and decorative objects — all the beautiful things you want on display. Then for all the not so beautiful things, cabinets are ideal. They provide the perfect storage spot for things like paperwork, electronics, cables and unsightly (but annoyingly necessary!) kids toys.

A combination of both also helps reduce the amount of dust that collects on everything. Plus, if you’re having a messy day, you can simply close the cabinet doors and the room instantly looks tidy again. We’re ALL for that idea!

This approach is commonly used in custom built-in bookshelves and living room wall units because it balances practicality with style. However, you can find plenty of standalone, store bought bookshelves with a mix of both shelving styles. They might just require a bit of a DIY paint job to give them that one-of-a-kind feeling. For more info on that topic, keep on reading.

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How to style living room bookshelves

One of the biggest questions people ask us is how to style bookshelves so they look good without feeling overcrowded.

We go in depth into this topic in our bookshelf styling series here: Part 1 and Part 2. But here are the basics when it comes to bookshelf styling tips, tricks and ideas.

1. Start with books

It may sound obvious, but books should still form the foundation of your bookshelf styling.

Stack some horizontally, place others vertically and leave small gaps between sections so the shelves feel relaxed rather than packed.

2. Add in a mix of decorative objects

It’s no secret how much we adore decor pieces. In amongst your books, we suggest adding in a mix of objects such as ceramics, framed photos, small sculptures or travel souvenirs.

Using objects with different heights, shapes and textures helps create visual interest. You can read all about our fave home decor items here.

3. Bring in greenery

Plants are one of the easiest ways to soften bookshelves.

Trailing plants, small potted greenery or even dried arrangements can bring life and colour to your shelving. If your living room bookshelf doesn’t get a lot of natural light, you may even want to try adding in a few realistic looking artificial indoor plants (yes, they do exist, we promise!).

4. Leave space

One of the secrets to beautifully styled shelves is negative space. Leaving some areas empty prevents shelves from looking cluttered and helps highlight your favourite pieces.

How to DIY your own painted living room bookshelf.

If you already have shelves in your living room (or perhaps you’ve thrifted some!), painting them can be a surprisingly simple weekend project. It’s one of the easiest ways to create custom-looking bookshelves on a budget.

Freestanding bookcases from places like IKEA, Facebook Marketplace or OP shops (or even council pick up!) can be painted to suit your space in whatever shade matches your interior aesthetic.

For the best tips on how to tackle your own DIY painted bookshelf project, we can’t go past this article written by a multi-award-winning painter and decorator. It answers all the key painting questions so it’s definitely worth a read if you’re keen to take on a DIY project.

What style of bookshelf is best? Built-in bookshelves or a freestanding bookcase?

If you’re renovating or designing a living room from scratch, you may also consider custom built-in bookshelves. Custom joinery can be designed to fit your space perfectly, often incorporating cabinetry, lighting and shelving in one cohesive unit.

If custom joinery isn’t in your budget, freestanding bookshelves can still look fantastic, especially when painted and styled thoughtfully.

For renters or anyone who likes to change things up, freestanding shelves offer more flexibility and are a great way to experiment with colour.

At the end of the day, living room bookshelves should reflect your personality. And with the right colour, finish and styling approach, they can easily become one of the most beautiful features in your living room.

We hope this article has given you some ideas and inspiration to add a painted living room bookshelf in your home. For even more design ideas delivered straight to your inbox, subscribe to Style Curator.

More living room styling ideas here

The post Painted living room bookshelf ideas: Colours, finishes, styling tips appeared first on Style Curator.

We discuss hallway decorating ideas, furniture, rugs and styling tricks — this is your one stop hallway styling shop!

Related article: Nook styling: 3 ways to make the most of empty corners of the home
Related article: How to style a sideboard, console or hall table: Home décor to use and top styling tricks 

Add a rug

A sure fire way to glam up your hallway is to add a rug. Hallway rugs add warmth to the space and feel beautiful underfoot. Choosing the right one can set the tone and style for the rest of your space.

Patterned or coloured rugs help bring a burst of colour to the space. The classic Hamptons rug is perfect for a coastal or Hamptons home. And if you’re not sure what your style is, a jute or knotted hallway runner is always a good choice. Plus, they’re super hardwearing making them an ideal hallway rug.

We also love the idea below where Michael and Carlene used a series of different rugs for their large hallway / breezeway.

Plan your lighting

Are you sick of hearing us harp on about how important lighting is to a space yet?! Well, it is and we don’t intend to stop now… even if we are just talking about the humble little hallway!

Whether it be a statement pendant light, wall sconces or simple downlights or wall lights, getting the lighting right in your hallway will make the world of difference.

If you can’t change your current lighting, you could always add a statement lamp or even a floor lamp. It will make your hallway feel brighter, more inviting and just down right beautiful! There are plenty of cordless, rechargeable table lamps hitting the market for those of us who don’t have a powerpoint in this space.

Think about furniture

Hallway furniture is a given — so long as you have the space. A slimline hallway table is an ideal choice where you can add interest, style it up with decor and have a place to pop your keys and other bits and bobs. We’ve got some pretty luxe hallway tables below but if you’re working with a budget, check out these clever IKEA hacks or Luxo Living has accessible luxury pieces for every home. Kmart has also recently released a fab range of affordable hallway tables and console tables.

If there’s space for it, a statement chair looks great. It can serve as a spot for people to take their shoes on and off, or even as a reading nook if the hallway is elsewhere in the home.

Incorporating a built-in bench seat is another hallway furniture idea. Kind of like a mudroom / drop zone. Bonus points if it includes storage so you can stash shoes and bags out of sight!

Add depth with a mirror

A mirror is a great way to reflect light and make a space feel larger. It’s also ideal to use by the front door so you can check yourself before you leave home!

Timber or rattan for those coastal vibes. Brushed brass for an art deco style home. Black for the modern space or scandi. There are so many gorgeous mirrors on the market, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Go green with life

We’ve said it before… plants bring life to every space in the home and the hallway is no exception. If you’re looking for an entry level idea for how to style your hallway, plants are an ideal pick.

They instantly bring style, colour and life into a space as well as helping to purify the air. Need help picking a hardy plant to use to style your hallway? Check out this handy guide of 20 hard to kill indoor plants.

Add a splash of colour or art

If you love colour, why not make an entrance and showcase it from the get go? Perhaps a bold painted wall or a colourful gallery wall? You could even paint your front door with a beautiful pop of colour. This article will provide endless inspo.

For a less in your face approach, try a colourful piece of furniture, some decor pieces, or simply add some indoor plants.

Artwork is also an ideal way to add colour to a space without going too OTT. Use it as inspiration to set the tone for the rest of your hallway.

Make a statement with your floors

We love a statement floor! Whether it be black floors, bold tiles or a classic timber herringbone, these are a sure fire way to make a lasting impression in your hallway.

Decor, decor, decor!

Bringing decor into the home is one of our favourite pastimes! It’s a simple and stylish way to update your hallway. For hallway decorating ideas, think vases, flowers or foraged pieces. Stacks of books, candles and woven baskets. Trinkets, photographs, wall hooks and trays — there are so many items to use for your hallway styling.

We hope this article has given you some tips, hints and inspo for how to style your hallway. Whether you’re starting from scratch or working with what you’ve got, there are plenty of ideas for ways to style up your space. Be sure to subscribe to Style Curator for the latest styling tips straight to your inbox.

More home styling ideas here

The post Tips, ideas and tonnes of inspo on how to style your hallway appeared first on Style Curator.

Most of these are online businesses so you get the benefit of a much larger range and at a lower cost delivered straight to your door, win win!

Related article: Top 7 stylish bar carts and cabinets to suit all budgets — cheers to that!
Related article: 5 modern rugs under $500

Temple & Webster

Starting this round up with Australia’s largest online retailer for the home, Temple & Webster has thousands of rugs to choose from and at great prices. From modern earthy rugs to traditional patterned rugs, they’ve got options for every interior style.

We love that their online store lets you sort results by price, size, colour, type, material, style and more so you can easily filter to see only the rugs of interest to you. They always have the latest shapes, patterns and rug styles to choose from, as well as traditional and kids play rugs.

Brows Temple & Webster rugs here

Natural Rugs

If you’re lusting after a natural rug, like a jute or sisal rug, look no further than Natural Rugs. This Australian-owned, family-run business assemble all of their rugs by hand in Australia by experts craftsman — ensuring you receive perfection! From over-sized living area rugs to extra-long hallway runners, they have a huge range to choose from. They also only use ethically-made natural fibres from sustainable sources, which we love.

Browse the range of rugs by Natural Rugs here

Rugs of Beauty

Possibly the best kept secret of where to buy large rugs is Rugs of Beauty! Most of the rugs in Gina’s home are from Rugs of Beauty (including the Carlos rug pictured below) and it’s our go-to for modern and designer rugs at great prices.

Every rug comes in multiple sizes, and with free shipping Australia-wide on purchases over $99 plus AfterPay, you can’t go wrong.

Browse the range of Rugs of Beauty rugs here

Freedom

One of the few retail stores to offer large rugs at affordable prices is Freedom.

From natural jute to traditional knits, and of course the ever-popular Kenza rug (as shown below), they have a beautiful timeless range of rugs to choose from.

Browse the range of Freedom rugs here

Unique Rug Store

If you’re looking for a one of a kind, handmade rug, check out the Unique Rug Store.

Each rug in their store is made from naturally dyed wool and given they are handmade, no two rugs are identical. Their range includes patchwork rugs, vintage rugs, overdyed rugs, Damali rugs and Kilims.

Browse the range of Unique Rug Store rugs here

Miss Amara

This relatively new business is already making a big splash — becoming known for their curated range of beautiful rugs at great prices.

We love their collection of modern and transitional rugs that focus on texture and details.

They also offer a free, no obligation styling service to help you find the right rug for your space. And should you wish to buy, there’s free shipping in Australia too.

Browse the range of Miss Amara rugs here

Hali Rugs

Another place where you can buy authentic handmade rugs is Hali Rugs. A family business established over 40 years ago, they are committed to working with artisans to bring you the highest quality rugs from across the globe.

What we love most about Hali Rugs is how they translate traditional colourways and prints for an Australian market. Oh, and they also offer consultations if you looking for expert guidance on finding the perfect rug.

Browse the range of Hali Rugs here

Bringing large rugs into Australia: What to know

Of course, it’s also possible to buy a large rug overseas and import it into Australia. If you’re eyeing a stunning rug from overseas, it’s worth thinking about more than just the design. Getting large items into Australia can be a bit of a process, especially when it comes to navigating customs regulations and paperwork.

That’s where an experienced customs broker in Australia can make life easier. They’ll handle all the tricky stuff — like import declarations and compliance — so your rug arrives without delays or unexpected hassles. It’s one less thing to worry about, letting you focus on finding the perfect spot for your new piece at home.

Top tips when buying a rug:

We know it’s not just a question of where to buy a rug but what rug to buy! These are our top 3 rug rules that never let us down:

1. Go busy on the walls or busy on the floor. By that we mean, if you’re thinking about buying a patterned or brightly coloured rug, dial down the other elements in the room. If you already have bold and colourful art in the space, it’s probably a good idea to temper the look with a neutral rug so the two don’t compete for attention.

2. Bigger is always better. Nothing lets down a space like a postage stamp sized rug. You always want at least the front feet of your furniture to sit on the rug.

3. Be practical. We know, what a buzz-kill but the number of times people will fall in love with a rug that just isn’t suitable to their lifestyle (us included) would shock you. If you have a black-haired dog you adore, avoid a cream rug. If you have young children, look for a hardwearing material that’s easy to clean. You get the idea

We hope this guide on where to buy rugs online in Australia helps you. From cost effective to luxury rugs, as well as artisan handmade rugs, we hope you found your dream rug from one of these stores. Share them in the comments below! You may also like to check out our tips on how to select the right rug.

Check out more of the best places to shop

Disclaimer: This article was first published in May 2018 and has been updated with new information and images.

The post Our favourite places to shop for large rugs appeared first on Style Curator.

In this article, we share 30+ of the best IKEA hacks, including storage ideas, furniture transformations and budget-friendly DIY projects to help you create a beautiful home for less. Whether you’re updating your living room, bedroom or kitchen, these IKEA hack ideas prove you don’t need a big budget to achieve a designer look.

Related article: 20 of the coolest Kmart hacks EVER!
Related article: Big W hacks to organise or add affordable style to your home

1. Luxe coffee table dupe using salad bowls

Have you been lusting after those luxury coffee table with large ball-shaped legs? Usually costing hundreds, if not thousands, the clever and creative Rose of @azumiihome decided to hack her own! Using $25 IKEA serving bowls, she glued these together and stained them to complement the tones of the stone slab she bought as the coffee table top.

Watch her reel below to see how she did it…

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A post shared by Rose Chauhan (@azumiihome)

2. Low-level behind sofa table

Turning the humble LACK shelf into a sleek table for behind the sofa, this hack is as simplistic as it is stylish. It’s the perfect way to add a functional surface for styling, without taking up too much visual space. We also love how it helps to connect the living room area to the rest of the home — far better to look at than just the back of a lounge!

3. Elevate an IKEA frame from fine to fabulous

Adding fabric backing or matt board to picture frames (or even fabric photo frames) are low-key trending right now! If you want to hack your own, watch how this quick and easy hack totally elevates your wall art.

@ikeahacksandideas_1st Frame with linen Who would’ve thought a little bit of fabric could change the whole vibe? I saw this gorgeous idea from @interioroverdose and had to share it with you! Just take any IKEA frame – for example, LOMVIKEN – and wrap the passe-partout with a dark linen fabric . Suddenly, the simple frame looks like it came straight out of an art gallery! Of course, you don’t have to stick with linen – get creative! Go with prints , neutrals , or bold textures – anything that fits your style! Share your #ikeahacksandideas with us by tagging/inviting us #ikeahacks #ikeahack #ikeahackideas #interioroverdoseinspo #passepartoutdiy #ikeaframehack #bilderrahmen #diyhomedecor #ikeadiy #homedecorideas #interior4all #livingroomhack #gallerywallideas #ikeadecor #creativehome ♬ Originalton – IKEA Hacks & Ideas

4. Kallax bookshelf becomes luxe bathroom cupboard

An absolute stunner to start us off! Talented DIYer Celine created this luxe rattan bathroom cupboard by adding a custom door to the Kallax bookshelf and painting it in that dreamy taupe colour. She shares all the steps in the reel below. With ‘more storage’ being on the wish list for many, we hope this IKEA hack offers plenty of inspo!

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A post shared by Céline Thiteux DIY & DECO (@idoitmyself.be)

5. Designer sofa dupe

Have you ben lusting over those designer sofas with in-built side tables and shelves but can’t afford (or justify!) the price tag? Lucia may have just found the solution with this incredible IKEA hack!

Using the EKET range, she created a storage chest for extra throw blankets (or perfect for toy storage) and a wall pocket for to rest your cuppa or have a styling moment. We would suggest adding a powerpoint inside the chest so you can also charge your devices or have easy access to power when you need it

6. Bedroom home cinema

A wardrobe that doubles as a home cinema? Genius! Watch your fave shows or movies on the big screen from the comfort of your bed with this sleek and stylish IKEA hack.

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7. Built-in bookcase pantry

If you’ve been dreaming of an open pantry, this BILLY bookcase DIY hack from Breakfast at Kellie’s is the perfect way to get the look on a budget. We can’t even tell it’s a bookcase! Check out the full DIY tutorial on her website.

8. Salad bowls become designer hallway console

Using the same technique as the coffee table hack above, Cassandra created this designer hallway table dupe! The wavy top totally makes this piece and she shares all the steps to create your own in the reel below.

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A post shared by Cassandra Noel (@cassandranoelhome)

9. A plain dresser gets an amazing makeover

This HEMNES chest of drawers is kinda generic, don’t you think? But just look at what Lisa from @knots.and.pots.home on Instagram did! A hack that creates such a high-end look on a budget. You can recreate the look following all the DIY instructions here.

10. Stylish floating entertainment unit for a bargain price

When it comes to lower priced furniture, often things can look… cheap. But not if you do it right. Take a look at this incredible entertainment unit styled by Tess. Using the incredibly affordable BESTA TV bench, Tess wall mounted hers and placed her TV off centre to create a chic, sleek and stylish living room.

And all that storage to hide everything away — we are in love! Oh… and yes, we know this isn’t exactly a hack. But it’s so gorgeous, can you blame us for including it in our fave ever IKEA hacks post?!

11. Bookshelf gets a Mediterranean-inspired makeover

It’s hard to miss the rising trend in organic furniture. If you can’t afford the real deal — or you just want to put your own unique spin on things — here’s a fabulous example of what can be done with a simple IKEA bookshelf. Create whatever configuration you want and paint it in a colour to suit your interior style.

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A post shared by Alice Mompean (@homefluffyhome)

12. Shelving units turned kitchen island

If you’re feeling a little crowded in your kitchen, have a look at this kitchen island hack! Jen Lou Meredith came up with this hack using KALLAX shelving units. It’s small, storage savvy and mobile, so you can move it as you need to! It may require a little DIY know-how, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can find her tutorial here.

13. Kitchen cabinets become living room storage

IKEA is renowned for its affordable kitchen range but why restrict it to just one room? The ever-so-talented Shelley from DIYshelley (who we’ve featured on the blog a few times!) used IKEA kitchen cabinetry in her living room as her TV cabinet and clever added storage. So smart and functional!

14. Chest of drawers becomes a luxe linen cupboard

With custom joinery costing a pretty penny, we love discovering clever hacks like this one from Emma-Lee Goulding from Willow Root Collective. Emma-Lee took the HEMNES 3 drawer and built it into her gorgeous linen cupboard.

See the video transformation below, or check out her detailed blog post on how she achieved this look.

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A post shared by EMMA-LEE GOULDING | WILLOW ROOT COLLECTIVE (@willowrootcollective)

15. Cute as a button mushroom lamp

Who knew you could make a cute as mushroom lamp from a mixing bowl and a canister?! One of our fave DIYers, Geneva Vanderzeil did just that using the metal bowl and canister, both from IKEA. You can find the full tutorial here, and by the looks of it, it looks super simple!

16. Clever use of kids stools… and IKEA doors!

If you’re a parent, you probably have one of the BEKVAM step stools at your place. But here’s a use for it we’d never considered.

Using 2 step stools and, get this, 2 FONNES doors, you can get this brilliant and cost-effective TV unit!

Yep, that’s right, kids step stools and doors! Such a unique idea!

17. Peg board becomes a green wall

Here’s one for our plant lovers! Using the already-cool SKADIS peg board, Dani created this wonderful living green wall. Simply add some hanging baskets and pop your plant babies on the shelves and you’ve got a great idea you can easily do at your place!

18. A curtain rail for hanging plants

Another fab idea for the plant lovers! A great way to display your beautiful plant hangers is by using the RACKA curtain rail. Such an effective solution if you’re unable to reach, or can’t drill into the ceiling.

19. Luxe chair makeover

Take a touch of gold paint. A simple IKEA chair. And top it with the soft and fluffy SKOLD sheepskin rug.

Voila! Luxe, scandi-inspired chair!

Note: The chair pictured isn’t available in Australia but here’s a similar style we found.

20. Window bench seat

Using the NORDLI chest of drawers, you can create a gorgeous window seat! Created by Kelin from Hydrangea Treehouse, this easily customisable hack can help you create a stunning bench that fits just right. And who doesn’t love extra storage? Find the tutorial here.

21. School bag storage solution

Ok, so this isn’t really a hack, but anything that minimises kid-mess gets our attention! This clever and simple idea uses the TROFAST storage unit to create a school organisation station where everything is neat, tidy and easy to find. Yes please!

22. Bed head with clever storage

Using the TRONES shoe storage, you can create a simple yet clever bed head with heaps of storage. Pop your spare sheets in for easy access, or keep your books and other clutter hidden away. SUCH a cool idea!

23. Bed slats new lease on life

Staying in the bedroom (kind of) for another of our fave IKEA hacks… taking the slats from a no longer needed bed could be the storage solution you’ve been hunting for!

Use it in the kitchen to hang pots of herbs and quirky kitchen gadgets. Pop it in the bathroom for added storage, or maybe in the bedroom to hang belts, scarves and jewellery.

Simple yet functional, we love this clever upcycle that could stop would-be waste going to landfill.

24. Spice rack turned kids bookshelf

Sometimes it’s the simplest hacks that turn out to be the best! Kate, a motherhood TikTokker, shows us how the cheap and cheerful IKEA BEKVÄM spice rack can be turned into 2 styles of shelves for a kid’s room.

Correct way up, they’re a sweet mini bookshelf. Or flipped over and it becomes a great shelf with a hanging rail for clothes or backpacks, using an S hook. So simple!

@kate.athome A super easy little hack… #ikeahacks #ikeakidshack #mumhacks #ukmumsoftiktok #ikeabekvam #kidsroominspo #kidsroomideas #ikeadiyhack #kidsinterior #ukmumaccount #diyikeahack ♬ I Am Your Mother You Listen To Me (Tik Tok Sped Up) – Remix – Green Neon DJ

25. A bookcase turns into a pull out pantry

Ok, so this is super clever. TikTok creator @lovemlovef shows us how they took a simple IKEA bookcase, and turned it into a sliding, slimline pantry. By attaching sliding washing machine base stands to the bottom, it creates the ideal pull out pantry!

Check out the video below — so cool and so creative!

@lovemlovef loveit … #ikeahack #ikeakitchen #ikeafinds #ikeatok #swag #decor #decoration #picoftheday #queen #fyp #lovedecor #beautiful #awesome #amazing #instagram #pinterest #lovediy #diyproject #deco #ikeadiy #actiondiy #diyproject ♬ origineel geluid – ♡halfbloedje♡

26. DIY rug

Rugs can be expensive, we know. So how about making your own?! A clever crafter took these cheap as chips IKEA mats and sewed them together to create one big rug.

You could try using any of IKEA’s huge range of place mats, smaller rugs or even bath mats to get the same effect.

27. Kids safety stool

Ah, kids ‘helping’ in the kitchen (insert panicked parent here!). Sina from Happy Grey Lucky hacked the BEKVAM step stool to make it a whole lot safer for her little peeps.

Perfect for future budding chefs!

28. Kids kitchen makeovers

We see so many gorgeous IKEA hacks done on the DUKTIG kids play kitchen. And while these ones are not so much hacks as they are makeovers, we couldn’t resist including them.

We especially love the sweet subway tile details in the pink and gold kitchen, and the boho vibes in the teal and terracotta version!

29. Another use for the play kitchen — a flower stall

According to the Dutch team at Zoeyzokidsconcept, the DUKTIG kitchen isn’t just for the kitchen! They show us how it can be made into a fabulous flower shop with just a touch of added creativity!

If flowers (or DIY) aren’t your cup of tea, they also do burger bars, sushi kitchens plus more using their cute-as-anything stickers and magnets, made specifically to fit the IKEA kids kitchen!

30. Storage unit turned super sweet dolls house

Using the ever-so-popular KALLAX 4-square storage unit, a few crafty people have created these gorgeous dolls houses! We love the version with the added roof, but think the wallpaper/contact versions are just as sweet!

31. Heat mats become a cork board

This collection of painted and wall mounted pin boards is so clever! But what’s even better is they started life as HEAT kitchen pot stands! You can find the how to instructions from ‘Oh everything handmade’ here.

32. Boho coffee table

There’s no shortage of clever people out there, and one of our favourites has to be this boho-style ALSEDA stool hack. How cool is it? Use this tutorial by Alice and Lois on Hunker to create your own.

33. Wooden train tracks turned blackboard

For any keen little train spotters (young or old!) how cool is this idea? Attaching the LILLABO wooden train track to the wall and adding a blackboard (or just using blackboard paint) to create a quirky but clever blackboard.

34. Headphone storage solution

Tangled headphone cords are never fun. So how about this for a clever little hack. Attach the BROGRUND toilet roll holder under a desk and you’ve got the perfect headphone storage solution. So simple, but we think it’s kinda genius!

35. DIY cabinets turn custom entertainment unit

Finding the perfect entertainment unit is a challenge! They always seem either too small or BIG, too deep or not the right style for your home.

In Rachel’s large living room, a custom entertainment unit was the only solution but without wanting to spend thousands on custom joinery she came up with a clever hack using the BESTÅ TV bench from IKEA with HANVIKEN doors. The wooden handles from Auburn Wood Turning fit her contemporary home to a T!

FAQs

What are IKEA hacks?

Typically, an IKEA hack is when you use or transform an item in a way it wasn’t originally designed for. For example, turning a toilet roll holder into a headphone bracket. Over time, the term has also come to include makeovers, upcycles and clever ‘glow ups’ — and we’re all for that! In our view, if you can take an affordable piece and make it look more expensive or more functional, that’s a hack worth celebrating.

Are IKEA hacks easy to do for beginners?

Absolutely. IKEA hacks range from super simple projects using just glue or paint, through to more advanced builds involving power tools. In this article, you’ll find plenty of beginner-friendly ideas like adding fabric backing to picture frames or creating a behind-sofa table by simply gluing a few shelves together.

What are the best IKEA hacks for renters?

Renting often means limited ability to personalise your space, but IKEA hacks are a great workaround. We love using painted or stained furniture and colourful decor to inject personality without touching the walls. Storage is another common challenge, so opt for hacks that are both stylish and portable — pieces you can take with you from one home to the next.

What are the best IKEA storage hacks?

Some of the best IKEA storage hacks combine function with great design. The KALLAX shelf turned bathroom cabinet is a standout, especially for tackling overflowing linen storage. We also love multifunctional pieces, like the sofa hack in-built table that also doubles as a hidden storage chest — a clever way to add storage while elevating the overall look of your space.

What IKEA hacks are trending right now?

Right now, we’re seeing a strong shift towards warmer, more natural finishes — think walnut tones, Japandi influences and organic shapes. There’s also a growing trend of elevating IKEA pieces with custom elements like stone tops or textured finishes to create a more designer look. Many of these ideas can be easily adapted to suit your own style, making them both current and timeless.

We hope this round up IKEA storage hacks and furniture transformations prove you don’t need a big budget to create a beautiful home! For regular affordable and creative home styling tips, subscribe to Style Curator.

Check out more DIY and hacks here

Disclaimer: This article was first published in July 2020 and continues to be updated with the latest and best IKEA hacks.

The post From flat pack to fabulous: The best ever IKEA hacks appeared first on Style Curator.

There’s no denying S-fold curtains are the most popular window treatments in Australia to achieve a contemporary, designer-look home. For a long time, you needed to have a matching ‘designer budget’ to afford this type of window covering as it generally meant hiring an interior designer or going to a specialist supplier. Thankfully, alternatives have come onto the market. One destination brimming with ready-to-hang curtains you might not have thought of is Spotlight.

If you’re looking to refresh the window coverings in your home, let’s take a look at why it’s worth popping into your nearest store or checking out their online range.

Related article: 50+ top items in home decor: Add layers and interest to your interiors
Related article: My home office reveal: Stylish home office ideas (even for renters)

Designer look without the designer price tag

As we mentioned, S-fold curtains (also called wave fold or ripple fold) are a firm favourite with interior designers. This type of curtain header instantly achieve a high-end, luxury look. When installed high and wide, they create the illusion of larger spaces. One of the main reasons we love them is because they look polished whether they are open or closed. The continuous S-shaped folds also soften interiors to create inviting, homely spaces. Until recently, achieving this look came with a significant price tag to match.

Spotlight changes that equation. Their range brings S-fold curtains within reach of anyone renovating a living room, styling a new build, or simply wanting to refresh a space without a full-scale budget. With a wide range of ready-made S-fold curtains in stores (as well as their custom-made option which we’ll talk about next), you can now buy S-fold curtains you can install yourself and save big.

For an even more affordable option, it’s worth mentioning Spotlight’s eyelet curtains. These curtains offer a more relaxed, evenly spaced pleat which achieves a similar look at a much friendlier price point. The main difference is that these curtains hang on a rod which feeds through circular eyelets across the top of the curtain. Whereas S-fold curtains use discreet fastenings that sit behind the curtain and attach to a slim track.

Neither style requires professional installation to look good. That alone makes a meaningful difference to the overall cost.

The ready-made and custom-made options mean there is something for every home

One of the things that sets Spotlight apart is the flexibility it offers. If you need curtains quickly, say, for a new home you have just moved into or a room that is being styled for a sale, their ready-made range means you can walk out with something that looks considered and put-together the same day.

If your windows are a non-standard size, or you want a specific drop, fabric weight, or lining, they have custom-made curtains, too. You get the precision of a made-to-measure curtain without the wait time or cost that typically comes with going through a specialist.

Most retailers tend to offer one or the other, or limit their custom options to a narrow fabric range. Spotlight’s approach means you are not forced to compromise on fit just because you are working within a budget.

More than your basic curtain range

For years Spotlight has been expanding their curtain range to include the full offering. This includes pinch pleat, pocket rod, eyelet and S-fold curtains. They have a wide range of fabrics from sheer to blockout, and in an array of colours too. Phew, it can become a little overwhelming.

To help you decide the best curtain option, ask yourself these questions:

What level of privacy and light control do you need? For daytime privacy, such as in your living room, opt for sheer curtain fabrics that will also diffuse light beautifully. In your bedroom where night time privacy is essential, use a blockout fabric or a double curtain track that gives you the option of both sheer and block out fabrics.

What look do you want to achieve? For a contemporary, designer-look it’s hard to go past an S-fold curtain. In more traditional homes or for a more formal look, pinch pleat curtains are a good option.

What is your budget? The most affordable style of curtains are pocket rod as they require no hardware. Then generally there’s a price increase to eyelet, followed by pinch pleat and S-fold. If you need to stretch your budget, you could consider a combination of window solutions. For example, modern S-fold curtains in the main living area and eyelet curtains in the kids’ bedrooms. Installing your own curtains (no matter the style) will also help you save significantly.

What other materials and finishes do you have in your space? Curtains are one of the many material and finishes in a space. So it’s important to consider how they work alongside everything else. When choosing the right fabric and colour, take into account the other materials, such as flooring, paint colours and furniture. We always suggest taking photos of your home or swatches of the other materials you’ve selected when shopping. That way you can choose colours and tones that work harmoniously together. You don’t need for everything to match (actually it’s better they don’t!) but you want the undertones of the different materials to complement one another.

What is your climate and orientation of the room? In Australia where UV rays are so strong, you cannot ignore climate and the room’s orientation when choosing window coverings. A west-facing window will be exposed to direct sunlight for most of the day. To improve insulation and create a more comfortable living space, use a heavier weight fabric that’s also lined. Spotlight’s range gives you enough options so there’ll be one that suits both your space and your climate.

Both S-fold and eyelet styles are available across a variety of colours and finishes, which means they work across a wide range of interior aesthetics. Whether you are after something neutral and understated to complement a Scandinavian-influenced interior, or something with more texture and depth for a warmer, layered look, their range has options that fit.

In-store expertise

Curtains are one of those purchases where getting the details right really matters. A curtain that is too short, too narrow, or hung at the wrong height can draw attention for all the wrong reasons. But when done right, curtains have the ability to make a room feel larger and more luxurious.

Spotlight’s in-store team can help you work through the practical questions, like how much fabric fullness you need for a proper S-fold wave, what drop works best for your window height, and whether a blockout or light-filtering lining suits the room you are working with. That kind of guidance is not always easy to find, particularly at this price point, and it takes a lot of the guesswork out of what can otherwise be an overwhelming purchase.

For anyone measuring up for the first time, it is worth noting that to get the right fullness curtain width is typically calculated at 1.5 to 2 times the window width. Not enough curtain width is one of the most common (and most visible) curtain mistakes people make.

When you factor in the combination of price, range, and quality, it’s easy to see why Spotlight is a destination worth checking out for your curtain needs.

More decorating tips and tricks

The post Spotlight’s S-fold and eyelet curtains: Ready-to-hang and custom window coverings appeared first on Style Curator.

Today I’m giving you a full look inside my new home office, sharing the exact pieces I used and, more importantly, the design decisions behind it so you can create your own stylish home office. Even if you’re renting or working with an awkward layout.

If you’re searching for home office ideas or inspiration, I hope this space shows that you don’t need a huge room or a massive budget to create something beautiful.

Related article: Designing your dream home office: A space that fuels inspiration
Related article: DIY oversized pinboard for under $30 (designer look on a budget)

Designing a home office in an awkward-shaped room

A challenge in this room is that it isn’t perfectly square. The door is positioned on an angled wall that swings inwards, creating a large dead zone that could have easily become wasted space.

Instead of fighting the layout, I decided to embrace it, and create three mini zones:

• zone 1: a bookshelf zone to hide those unsightly cables and internet boxes (and also a DIY upcycle project)
• zone 2: a cosy armchair nook for filming and flexible work
• zone 3: a structured desk area anchored by large-scale artwork.

Breaking the room into zones instantly made it feel purposeful rather than awkward. This is one of my top small home office ideas if you’re working with a tricky floorplan.

Zone 1: The DIY bookshelf feature

One of my favourite parts of this room is the bookshelf. Mostly because it cost me almost nothing!

It’s also the first thing you see in the space and offers me the chance to effortlessly switch up the decor and display elements. I love any excuse to do some bookshelf styling!

I salvaged an old IKEA bookshelf that someone had left on the side of the road (proof that one man’s trash is another man’s treasure!). Then, I gave it new life using Dulux chalk paint in the shade Battle Dress. This colour is a beautiful grounding green that adds depth without overwhelming the room.

To elevate it further, I lined the back with green corduroy fabric from Spotlight. The texture adds warmth and a subtle pattern, making it feel bespoke and layered.

This bookshelf is not only stylish but it’s also super functional. The pop of colour anchors the entire room while hiding all those unsightly cables and my internet box. Plus it’s a space for me to display my books, trinkets and decor.

If you’re looking for renter-friendly home office ideas, painting secondhand furniture is such an effective way to create personality without touching the walls.

Zone 2: A cosy armchair nook for flexible work

Not every task needs a desk. I created a relaxed corner with the beautiful Lorraine armchair from Lifely. This chair is a real sculptural piece that feels soft and inviting while still looking elevated.

From my cosy nook, I love to film design tips, make phone calls, do some creative thinking and work on my laptop (when I don’t need to be sitting at my desk with dual screens!).

Having a comfortable seating option is one of the most overlooked home office inspiration ideas. It makes your office feel like a space you want to spend time in. Not just somewhere that you have to work.

The side table is another curb side find that I spray painted in Dulux Vintage Beige in their chalk spray paint range.

Zone 3: The desk setup

For the main desk zone (aka the work part), I chose the Hudson home office desk from Lifely. It’s clean-lined, timeless and doesn’t visually clutter the space — which is important in a smaller room.

I like the curved edges. They really help with flow in a small office space. Curves add softness to all the angular lines in my space, and I don’t have to worry about hitting myself on a hard corner desk.

My office chair (the Tim office chair) blends beautifully without feeling bulky, keeping the overall look refined rather than corporate. I’m having a bit of a love affair with brown at the moment and love how it picks up the brown of the artwork behind.

Speaking of artwork, behind the desk, I hung the stunning ‘Two of a Kind’ artwork from Gioia Wall Art. Using large-scale artworks is one of my go-to home office ideas because it instantly elevates the room while adding a splash of fun and personality. It creates a fabulous, professional backdrop for video calls and meetings, and gives the desk an anchored feel.

Removable velcro strips are a fab way to hang artwork if you don’t want to add in a hook. Don’t think that just because you’re renting, you can’t display art.

Not forgetting the all important floor, I layered the Agnes 2457 beige modern patterned rug from Rugs of Beauty. A rug softens the room acoustically, adds warmth and helps visually define the desk zone.

If you’re renting, rugs are one of the best ways to transform a space without making permanent changes.

My DIY oversized pinboard

I’m an incredibly visual person, so I knew my oversized pinboard needed to be front and centre in my home office space. I actually made it myself, using leftover cardboard packaging! It’s holding up incredibly well and adds texture and visual interest while being super practical.

I love using it to showcase samples, fabric swatches, inspirational pieces and project notes. This is one of my favourite budget home office ideas because it proves you don’t need expensive joinery to create a functional design feature.

If you’d like to make your own, I’ve shared the full step-by-step designer DIY here.

Home office ideas for renters

Just because you’re renting doesn’t mean you can’t have a beautiful, functional and aesthetic space. It’s important to remember you don’t need built-ins or structural changes to create a stylish home office. You just need thoughtful styling and a clear vision.

Focus on furniture over fixtures

When updating a home office, it’s easy to assume structural changes or new fixtures are the answer. In reality, furniture has far greater impact, and much more flexibility.

Use rugs and artwork to create impact instead of painting walls

A full repaint isn’t always practical, especially in rentals, shared spaces or homes where the office may evolve over time. Instead, use rugs and artwork to inject personality and create visual impact.

My pinboard is a real statement piece. It’s something I just lean against the wall as this ensures no damage to the wall. I’ve seen some people design full wall leaning bookshelves, so if you’re handy, you could do something even bigger and more impactful.

If I was staying here longer, I would consider a DIY like this. Maybe in my next home… you never know!

Refresh secondhand pieces with paint or fabric

Secondhand furniture often has better bones than many new pieces… it just needs updating. A simple coat of paint can transform a tired desk or set of drawers into something that feels current and cohesive with the rest of the room.

Even just swapping out handles for something more your style can completely change the feel of cabinetry.

I love to add colour and invest in pieces you can take with you. Upcycling furniture is a cheap and low-risk way to add splashes of colour. If it doesn’t work, no stress because it was going to landfill anyway.

In my space, I love how both upcycled pieces turned out and they allowed me to splurge on other items.

Create defined zones within one room

In many homes, the office shares space with a bedroom, living area or open-plan zone. Creating subtle boundaries helps the workspace feel purposeful rather than temporary.

Clear zones support better focus during the day and make it easier to mentally step away from work after hours.

Add texture to make the space feel custom

Texture is often what separates a functional office from a beautifully layered one. Incorporating fabric-backed shelving, upholstered pinboards, woven baskets, textured cushions or layered curtains adds warmth and softness to a space that can otherwise feel hard and cold.

I replaced my curtains with sheer curtains from The Hues. When I leave, I can take these curtains with me but swapping them from the heavy, aged blockout curtains lets in so much light and makes the space feel way more luxe.

It’s the considered details that ultimately give a home office its personality. And I’m so happy with how my space tuned out. What do you think?!

Shop my home office

• Hudson home office desk — Lifely
• Lorraine armchair — Lifely
• ‘Two of a Kind’ artwork — Gioia
• Agnes 2457 Beige Rug — Rugs of Beauty
• Sheer curtains — The Hues
• IKEA bookshelf — upcycled with Dulux Battle Dress chalk paint and corduroy fabric from Spotlight.

I hope my home office makeover has inspired you to create a dedicated workspace or refresh yours if it’s feeling flat. Whether you’re starting with a blank canvas, or working with a tricky rental space, a few thoughtful updates and styling tricks can transform even the smallest corner into a productive space.

More home office inspo

The post My home office reveal: Stylish home office ideas (even for renters) appeared first on Style Curator.

Let me share with you my 2 favourite towel folding techniques — the elevated functional fold and spa roll. So whether you prefer to roll or fold your bath towels, I’ve got you covered with these simple towel styling tricks. Get ready to make your bathroom feel like a spa or bring an added sense of organisation to your linen closet!

Related article: Creating a 5 star experience for your guests
Related article: DIY bath bombs: Make luxe bath bombs with this simple tutorial

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How to fold towels neatly (the elevated functional fold)

Save space with my first towel styling trick — the elevated functional towel fold. This towel folding technique is great for saving space in your storage cupboard as it creates a compact square.

But don’t be fooled, this technique is just as good for presentation. By using this towel folding technique, you hide any messy edges for a neat finish. It also creates a more plush and fuller looking towel, avoiding that sad floppy towel look. It’s an easy towel styling trick that you can complete with minimal hassle, making it perfect for the weekly towel wash or visiting guests.

In addition to keeping your towels neat, it’s equally important to protect your personal information online. Using a reliable VPN like PlanetVPN can safeguard your data while you shop for the perfect towels or browse for home styling inspiration.

Steps

1. Lay your towel down flat before folding in half lengthwise.

2. Fold one-third of the towel over before folding another third again. You should now have a long strip.

3. Now fold it in thirds from the other direction.

How to roll towels spa-style (aka the spa roll)

It’s hard to miss the viral towel folding trend of replicating towel presentation from day spas. Otherwise known as the spa roll.

This decorative towel folding technique is just as good for maximising storage space in your linen closet and keeping your towels organised. But also wins an extra point for its more decorative style. Give you, your family or your guests the spa treatment with this stylish towel folding technique.

Steps

1. Lay the towel flat and fold one edge down into a triangle.

2. Take the short edge and bring it over to meet the longer side.

3. Flip the towel over and roll it tightly.

4. Finish by tucking the end tip into the rolled towel.

And there you have it. Two easy towel folding ideas to instantly make your bathroom feel like a day spa or maximise space in your cupboard!

Planning a bathroom refresh? Read these next:

• Bathroom lighting mistakes to avoid
• What bathroom mirror to buy: Shapes and styles explained
• Ultimate guide to choosing the right tapware for your home

Love the look of beautifully styled towels? It’s the small details that elevate a bathroom from functional to designer. If you’re renovating or refreshing your bathroom, join the Style Curator community for expert bathroom design advice, styling tips and practical renovation guidance — so you can avoid costly mistakes and create a space you truly love.

Check out more styling ideas

This article was first published in August 2022 and continues to be updated with latest information and images.

The post How to fold towels: Simple towel styling tricks to roll or fold towels appeared first on Style Curator.

Does your bedroom feel like a sanctuary you can retreat to at the end of a long day, or is it a space you’d rather keep hidden behind closed doors? It’s easy to prioritise main living areas when decorating our homes but we spend more time in our bedroom than any other space. And it’s not just about home decorating. There’s plenty of research linking our environment to sleep quality and overall wellbeing. One of the biggest bedroom trends for 2026 reflects this shift — creating a calm, nature-inspired retreat at home. 

From earthy colour palettes and botanical bedding to tactile materials and scent, I’m sharing the top ways you can turn your bedroom into a relaxed sanctuary.

Related article: Product review: What do silk pillowcases do and why you need them!
Related article: How to style your bed like a hotel

1. Earthy and nature-inspired bedding

Other than your floor and walls, your bed forms the largest surface area in your bedroom so embracing nature-inspired bedding will instantly set the mood. 

You’ll find quilt covers inspired by nature in everything from vibrant florals to lush tropical prints. As someone who generally steers away from printed bedding, I love the Yarra quit cover from Manchester Collection. Its soft floral and leaf print in sage and blush pink gives an Australian bushland feel without overwhelming the space, and is the perfect base for this bedroom look.

If you prefer solid-coloured bedding, opt for a quilt set in an earthy hue. Trending bedroom colours for 2026 include greens, clay tones, blush pinks and soft sky blues. Deep browns and burgundy tones are also emerging, particularly for cooler months. Look for textured finishes where possible, such as quilting or embroidery that can add depth and interest.

2. Repeat accent colours across the room

Confident interior styling is about cohesion. One of the easiest ways to do this is by repeating colours across the room, rather than concentrating them in one place.

A fool-proof approach to developing a colour palette is to draw colours out of your artwork or bedding. For example, I used green and pink from the bedding and used this in the cushions and throw blankets, books on the bedside table, and flowers.

Generally, I suggest picking one dominant colour and one accent colour, rather than using several colours in equal measure, as it helps to create a more balanced look. You don’t need to overdo it, just adding 3-5 pops of colour across the room will achieve a harmonious look.

Alternatively, you could pick just one colour and play with different tones and shades to achieve a monochromatic look. Colour drenching (where you use one colour across walls, ceiling, furniture and décor) is a particularly hot bedroom trend for 2026.

3. Embrace scent

How we feel in a space isn’t just visual. Our other senses play a role and scent is a powerful one. In fact, smell is often the first thing our brain registers when we enter a room.

To create an uplifting bedroom, use fresh scents like citrus or peppermint. For a more grounding feel, choose fragrances such as cedarwood, clary sage or rosemary. If you’d like a softer, romantic vibe, floral notes would be ideal.

Candles, incense, diffusers or oil burners are all great options, and I suggest finding one that can double as a décor piece in its own right. For example, I love this natural travertine oil burner which adds another layer of earthy texture to the space.

4. Add florals or indoor plants 

Nothing helps to create the sense of a nature-inspired bedroom better than, well… nature! Whether you prefer indoor plants, fresh flowers or even foraged branches, greenery instantly breathes life into a bedroom.

If your bedroom doesn’t get much natural light, look for plants that thrive in low-light conditions. Otherwise, a small vase with fresh blooms or leafy branches on a bedside table has just as much impact.

Stylist tip: remember, giving a space ‘breathing room’ is one of the most effective ways to create a sense of calm so less is more. You don’t need to overcrowd every surface to create a bedroom with interest. Rather, pick your hero pieces and give them space to shine.

5. Layer earthy textures for comfort

Finally, a cosy bedroom is all about texture. Mixing materials creates visual interest and makes the room feel more inviting. 

On the bed, that Yarra quilt cover is a gorgeous 400 tread count cotton with a sateen weave. It feels luxurious and soft while still being breathable for a restful sleep. For visual contrast and added comfort, I’ve layered two throw blankets in different materials and weaves.

Beyond the bed, consider texture in other areas. Could you add a rug underfoot? Can you mix up the materials of your décor? Natural materials like linen, wool, wood, woven baskets and natural stone, will reinforce the organic aesthetic. 

Stylist tip: when decorating, we often focus on what’s happening at ground level that we overlook walls and ceilings. If your walls are bare, you could add interest with art, wallpaper or wall panelling. While from your ceiling you may want to hang a pendant light, indoor hanging planter or hang ceiling mounted curtains.

If you’ve been inspired to refresh your bedroom with a nature-inspired feel, you can find all the bedding I used at Manchester Collection. They have a wide range of quilt covers online, including dreamy pastel florals, playful checker prints and waffle textured sets. I’m excited to be sharing more bedding looks from Manchester Collection over the coming weeks.

What bedroom trends are you loving for 2026? I’d love to hear what’s inspiring you. Chat with me in the comments below.

More bedroom styling inspo

The post 2026 bedroom trends: How to create a calm, nature-inspired retreat at home appeared first on Style Curator.

It’s a struggle we’ve experienced many times, whether decorating a bookshelf, coffee table or sideboard. That’s why we pulled together this list of the 50 top items in home decor. Whenever we have an arrangement that’s lacking or a room that’s looking a bit sparse, we refer back to this list for inspiration on what else we can use in the space.

We hope this list helps you next time you have decorator’s block. Let’s dive into our favourite home decoration ideas for every room of the home!

Related article: The tips and tricks to styling your coffee table with ease
Related article: 7 of my best interior styling tips to make a space work… when it just won’t!

1. Wall prints

So often when decorating, we focus on what’s on the floor and neglect our walls. There’s a huge range of affordable wall art on the market now. You can find a large scale piece that looks fabulous without breaking the bank. We share our list of the best places to buy affordable artwork online here.

For a more meaningful touch, a personalised paint by number canvas lets you turn a favourite photo into a custom piece of art — a fun DIY and decor item in one.

2. Clocks

A wall clock can be a beautiful decor piece — even if we have the time displayed on just about every device nowadays! Look for one that works in with your interior style, whether that’s coastal, industrial, contemporary or something else. If you’re not sure what your style is, take our fun and free interior style quiz here.

3. Table lamps

We often harp on about the importance of lighting and not just relying on ceiling lights to illuminate our homes. Table and floor lamps cast softer light and reduce harsh shadows in our home — and they can be a decor piece in their own right!

Shop our favourite lighting

4. Cushions

If you ask us, there’s no better way to get bang for buck than simply switching over your cushions. They’re a great way to introduce a new colour palette into a room or add more texture. Our hot tip, switch the regular foam cushion inserts over to feather inserts for a more luxe look and added comfort!

5. Candles

You know how obsessed we are with candles so this one was definitely going to be on the list! Candles add ambience to a home in a way few other decor pieces can because it works on our sense of smell. Look for ones made from soy wax and natural fragrances to avoid bringing toxins into your home. You may also like to check out our DIY candle tutorial to make your own.

6. Rugs

Rugs serve so many uses in a home — they define zones, add warmth and can soften hard flooring. And when you use one with a bold colour or pattern, they can be like art for a room. Keep your rugs looking fresh by regularly deep cleaning them or calling on a pro dry carpet cleaning company to do it. Picking a rug isn’t easy, which is why we share all the tips on how to select the right rug in the video below.

7. Vases

Glass or ceramic, metal or concrete, there’s no shortage in choice of vases on the market nowadays! Depending on the size and style of your vase, these can look fabulous as a stand alone item (such as an oversized vase filled with dried branches on a sideboard) or work into a styled arrangement beautifully.

Check out our favourite vases this season!

8. Art

There’s something so special about having a one-off or limited edition piece of original art in our home. Knowing the meaning behind a piece or about the artist adds to the unique story of our homes. Whether it’s a painting, sculpture, glasswork or something else, we always recommend investing in art.

9. Books

Add that homely feel and display your personal interests with books. These look great in a bookshelf (obviously!), on a coffee table, bedside table and just about any other surface area you can think of.

You can also make your own photo books which double as a keepsake and decor item in one. There are apps and online platforms making it easier than ever to drag and drop your favourite photos to create a custom book in minutes. We want to start doing this annually to capture the year in pages… rather than just our phone photo albums!

10. Mirrors

Bounce light around or create the illusion of a larger space with a strategically placed mirror. Naomi shares how you can use mirrors to attract the desired energy of abundance and calm in this article all about how to incorporate elements of Feng Shui into your home.

You can also shop our round up of the best floor mirrors here.

11. Indoor plants

You can never have too many indoor plants. Fact. And there’s never been a better range of stylish vessels to display your indoor plants! If you lack a green thumb, check out this article on the top 20 hard to kill indoor plants.

12. Photo frames

Framing photos or printing them onto canvas adds personality to your home and is a way of putting your happiest memories on display. But there’s an art to doing it without going overboard, check out our tips on how to decorate with photos here.

13. Crystals

Mmmmk, if you’re not already on the crystal bandwagon, do us a favour and just try. Whether you believe in the natural properties of crystals or not, there’s no denying they’re a beautiful decor piece! We’ve got a room-by-room guide to using crystals in your home to help you get started.

14. Sheepskins

Channeling Nordic vibes, we love a good sheepskin moment around the home. Draped over a bench seat, over an occasional chair or on the floor of a cosy nook, sheepskins look and feel amazing.

15. Bookends

It’s been a while since bookends have had their moment in the decor limelight and we want to do our part to shine a spotlight back on them! Forget traditional L shaped book ends that only serve a functional purpose when you can find some that are truly gorgeous decor pieces.

16. Pinboards

From circular to arch shape, hexagonal or something else, pinboards have come a long way! Keep organised and add a dose of style to your home with a pinboard — Mocka is a go-to store to buy them or you may like to try our DIY to make your own. Check out how interior designer Michelle Hart grouped three pin boards in her office below (see the full home tour here).

17. Baskets

We’ve never met a basket we didn’t like! Big or small, in a natural weave or colour, these are fabulous at keeping smaller items organised. In the pantry, baskets are great for keeping packet food items together and in play rooms there’s no easier way to organise kids toys. We use baskets in bookshelf styling, in bathrooms and just about every corner of the home. Get your hands on some!

18. Glass sculptures

When we first think of artists, generally our minds think of painters or perhaps ceramicists. There’s a world of talented glass artists out there and we love the idea of incorporating glass sculptures into the home. You can find intricate designs or something more simplistic, such as the beautiful glass sculptures pictured on the coffee table below.

19. Stool

We’ve seen on The Block time and time again how a stool is a styling staple in every bathroom reveal. They provide the perfect surface to drape a towel and display some beautiful bath products. Stools are also a great idea in living rooms as they provide extra seating when you need it or can otherwise act as a side table. Kids play rooms are another zone of the home we’ll generally incorporate a stool.

20. Hook

Functional and stylish, hooks can be arranged like art on your wall. A wall-mounted hook rack can also create the sense of an entry in smaller homes that open directly into a living room or kitchen.

From minimalist circular hooks to Colonial style brass pineapple hooks, there’s a hook out there to suit your home style.

21. Timber decor

A garland of timber beads on the coffee table of a coastal style living room, a timber hand in a Scandi-style space, a timber sphere in a contemporary bookshelf, or a piece of drift wood turned into a beautiful timber sculpture, there’s no shortage of ways you can incorporate timber decor into your home. Timber is a natural material that adds a sense of connection to outdoors. It is also a great way of mixing up the type of materials you use.

If you’re feeling crafty, it’s simple to DIY room decor using timber. For example, that timber bead garland below only uses a couple of packets of timber beads and a tassel.

22. Trays

A catch-all tray in the entry of a home is a styling essential we think everyone should have. Trays can serve many other styling uses though — some just for looks (like as a tray on your coffee table to anchor your arrangement) and as a practical tool (such as near your coffee station).

23. Oil burners or diffusers

There’s no denying the calming and uplifting benefits of diffusing oils in the home. Luckily brands have cottoned on to the idea and you can now find modern and stylish oil burners and diffusers on the market. Make it part of your morning routine and start your day on a positive note.

24. Occasional chairs

Whether you’ve got an empty corner of the home, want to create a more inclusive seating arrangement in your living room, or want to create a cosy seating nook, occasional chairs are always a good idea. We’ll admit this one falls more in the ‘furniture’ than ‘decor’ category buuuut sometimes it’s just the thing you need to make a space work.

25. Canisters

You know how much we love using smaller boxes, baskets and storage solutions to hide away items. Canisters are an often-forgotten one. You can find beautiful organic canisters made my ceramic artists or something more modern. Whatever style you prefer, these are a great item to have when styling. Place it on a bedside table to keep jewellery safe, in your office to store smaller stationery or in a kitchen vignette for rock salts or sugar.

26. Dried or artificial flowers or branches

For a few years, dried floral arrangements were all the rage. While this trend may have fizzled out, don’t throw away your dried flowers just yet! More organic and deconstructed dried floral arrangements have taken their place. Just take a look at how beautiful a vase of dried native flowers looks on our sideboard below. Alternatively, you could use branches for an even more rustic vibe.

Artificial flowers also have the same visual impact as fresh flowers — provided you get quality ones! The Faux Flower Company has some of the most impressive faux flowers we’ve seen. We share all our sideboard styling tips in this article.

27. Macrame anything

Speaking of trends, another material we’re beginning to see make a comeback is macrame. Let’s not go OTT like we did 10 years ago though! In moderation, we love a macrame wall hanging or hanging pot. Macrame particularly suits boho and eclectic style interiors but also looks fab in a coastal home.

28. Throw rugs

Add layers to your interior styling and create a greater sense of comfort and warmth using throws. Similar to cushions, they’re also a great way of repeating your colour palette throughout a space and we always suggest finishing your bed styling off with a throw.

29. Records

Record players are just cool and if you’re lucky enough to have one, be sure to put your records on display! Similar to books, the worn covers add character to a home and showcase your individual taste.

30. Magazines

Call us weird but we collect magazines and rather than hiding them away in cupboards, we’ll often place a stack of these in a bookshelf or on a side table. When they’re out on display, you’ll be more likely to go back to a magazine and discover new things amongst the pages that you may have missed or forgotten about.

31. Side tables

Ok, so this one is technically a furniture item too but we’re sure you’ll forgive us for including it on the list. You can find amazing natural stone, timber, bone inlay and all sorts of other side tables in stores. And given the affordability of (and flexibility to change up) side tables, we’re more lenient with our ‘go neutral with furniture’ rule

This is another one to ad to your list of DIY decoration ideas. For example, we made this terrazzo side table or just take a scroll of social media to see all the tiled or timber dowel side tables people are making. Oh, and you can also pick up an old side table for cheap from a thrift store and upcycle it

32. Natural stone trivet

Whenever Gina posts a picture of the marble trivet in her kitchen, the DMs and emails start pouring in asking where it’s from. Unfortunately, it’s no longer available but you can generally find similar at Temple & Webster. Safe to say it’s a firm favourite decor item!

Recently, warmer and richer natural stones like travertine and Verdi marble have been gaining popularity.

If you’re starting out on your styling journey and want simple home decoration ideas, check out this article on how to create a vignette or small styled arrangement.

Shop our fave trivets and trays

33. Luxe game board

Perhaps it’s thanks to all the time we spent in isolation but game boards have had a major comeback. You can find some seriously luxe game boards now, such as a marble chess board, or antique ones that add character to a space. On a table in your office, sideboard of a living room or in a cabinet are a few places you could incorporate these.

34. Candle sticks

Candle sticks or candle holders look great on your dining table — we’ve got a whole article dedicated to how to style your dining table when it’s not being eaten at here. You can also work them into a vignette on a sideboard for that tall element

35. Decorative bowl

Decorative bowls are perfect for adding interest to surfaces that you don’t want to overcrowd with small decor but still want to decorate. Think a decorative bowl on your kitchen bench that can double as a fruit bowl, yet still looks great when empty. Or an artist made glass bowl like the one below that you can place on a sideboard or dining table. These also look great in a glass cabinet or open shelving.

Another idea is to find a stunning decorative plate that can be stood upright with a plate stand.

36. Floor lamps

Serving the same purpose as table lamps of casting softer lighting but floor lamps are perfect for filling those void corners of a room, or adding height to a room where everything else is lower to the ground.

37. Coral

If you love the coastal or Hamptons style, a piece of coral or beautiful shell is a must-have decor piece. And if you’re concerned about the sustainability of these items, you should know there are some fab faux versions on the market now.

38. Wall shelf

Any kind of wall shelf — circular with smaller shelves, timber leather strap shelves, or even a picture ledge — are an opportunity to display some of your favourite objects. The picture shelf above the bed in Gina’s guest room is ideal for easily changing artwork displayed in this space. Best of all, that shelf was a steal for under $20 from IKEA!

39. Ceramic vessels or sculptures

We have a serious obsession with ceramic pieces and who can blame us?! In brightly glazed or unglazed natural clay, there’s something so special about the handmade beauty of ceramics. Find a functional piece, such as a candle holder or bowl, or you could simply pick up a sculpture for arts sake.

40. Floor runners

Ok, so this one is similar to rugs but because they’re so overlooked, we felt it deserved its own point. Hallways, the area between your kitchen and island, in your laundry or beside your bed can be softened with a floor runner. It’s another great way of introducing texture and pattern to a room.

41. Coasters

Coasters are often thought of as only being a practical item but gosh you can find some stylish ones around now — they’re so pretty, you’ll want to keep them on display 24/7! Agate coasters or travertine are still our faves but marble, timber or concrete are also strong contenders.

42. Decorative box

Similar to the canister idea, a decorative box made of any material can serve many uses and look great in almost any room of the home. Find one in a material to complement your interior style, such as a luxe marble or glass one or natural timber box for an earthier vibe.

Styling tip: place a decorative box on your coffee table to keep remotes out of sight yet accessible.

43. African Juju hat

If the global, coastal or wanderlust style is your thing, a juju hat could be the hero of the room. We adore the texture they bring to a space and just check out how fab it looks in Lana’s home below. Take the full home tour here.

44. Globe

In an office or bookshelf especially, we love the idea of a world globe. Find them in big or small sizes, in antique look or modern styles, there’s sure to be one out there to suit your space.

45. Glass cloche

You know you’re getting fancy when you add a glass cloche to your home, ha ha. Seriously though, they instantly elevate any styling and are so affordable! Many interior stylists say this one inexpensive decor item instantly makes any room feel luxe.

Not only do they look great, they help prevent intricate objects from getting dusty. During the festive months, they are also the perfect size have some styling fun.

Ideas of items you can place under a glass cloche in your home:

• candle: makes it look more sophisticated while preventing dust from settling on the wax
• coral: keeps delicate objects protected
• sentimental or precious decor: perhaps you have something your grandfather made, a vintage item or something else you want to highlight?
• Christmas scene: during the festive months, place fairy lights, bristle brush Christmas trees or other small decor underneath
• Halloween feature: another seasonal decorating idea is to use it for spooktacular Halloween styling, such decorative faux pumpkins or skulls
• Easter decor: a mini nest, bunny or eggs can look super cute.

46. Cowhide

We know this one won’t be for everyone but cowhides can introduce an earthier element to a space in a way that most rugs can’t. Interior designers often use these in smaller or awkward spaces such as a study nook as you can see in the pic below.

47. Hourglass

Popular in an office or bookshelf styling, an hourglass is an elegant and timeless (see what we did there ) home decor item that’s worth adding to your shopping list!

48. Pot plant stands

A firm favourite of ours are pot plant stands. Available in all sorts of sizes, colours and styles, these are a way of casting your eye upwards in a room. This is another item of home decor we’ve bookmarked Temple & Webster. No matter your budget or taste, you’re sure to find one to love!

49. Wick trimmer or candle snuffer

If you’re creating a styled arrangement with a candle, a nice low element to use is a wick trimmer or candle snuffer. There are many styles and different finishes so look for one to tie into your theme.

50. Watering can

This one probably sounds silly at first but hear us out! With indoor plants being more popular than ever — and we know a trick to keeping them alive is to stay on top of their watering schedule — it makes sense to have a stylish watering can on display so you’re reminded to give them a drink!

From matte black to burnt orange, crisp white and sage green, there’s a watering can colour and style to suit your space. Personally, we love the ones with an unusual design detail like a wavy handle or extra slim spout.

51. Decorative dish

Decorative trays or small dishes are available in a wide range of materials, including natural stone, ceramic, timber, metal or crystal. Whichever material you choose, this is an ESSENTIAL decor piece in every home!

Place one on your bedside table for jewellery, use one on your dining table for pinch salt, keep one in your office for push pins or other small knick knacks… there are endless uses for them around the home.

52. Neon light

Whether it’s in a kids room, media room or man cave, a neon light adds personality and fun to the space! Get one with a cool quote, illustration or custom neon sign with the person’s name. You can customise the perfect neon light for your space, picking the fonts, colours and size to make it your own.

Best home decor, our top picks

Just like with everything interiors, home decor goes through trends. We always suggest selecting items that you genuinely love so you’ll be less likely to tire of them once the trend passes. Think about your interior style and the type of home you want to create. For example, if you love the coastal style you may be drawn to faux coral or a large shell, whereas contemporary interiors would be better suited to ceramic decor.

If you’re just starting out decorating your home, our top home decor picks would be:

• table or floor lamps: perfect for filling a void corner and adding soft ambient lighting to your space (one of the easiest ways to make your home feel more inviting)
• trays or trivets: the unsung hero of home decorating. These can be used in almost every room of the home and instantly elevate your styling, literally!
• candles, incense or diffuser: because so much of how we feel in a space has to do with our other senses. Plus, these can often be a stylish decor piece in their own right
• photos: add personality to your home by displaying your favourite people and memories. These are great in a gallery wall, sprinkled throughout a bookshelf or placed on a bedside table. And photos don’t all have to sit behind glass in a frame — over the years we’ve shared ideas like photo blocks, canvas prints, on a pinboard, hanging clip garland and more.
• artwork: if you follow the blog, you’d know we’re art obsessed! A room just doesn’t feel complete to us unless there’s art on the walls. We have so many articles about where to shop for affordable art, profiles of emerging artists, and DIY tutorials to make your own art.

Whether you were looking for bedroom decor essentials, living room home decor ideas or just some decor accents for modern homes, we hope you found some new ideas in this round up. Pin the infographic below to your Pinterest board or save this post on Facebook to easily find our round up of decor items for every room.

Do you have another top home decor item that hasn’t been listed? Share it in the comments below! Or show us how you’ve styled your home by tagging us when you post a pic on social media.

More styling ideas

Disclaimer: This article was originally published in October 2014 and has been updated with new information and images.

The post 50+ top items in home decor: Add layers and interest to your interiors appeared first on Style Curator.

From quick and free updates to mini weekend renovation projects, these are 26 of my favourite ways to freshen up your home in 2026! It’s time to let go of the old, set new goals and welcome new opportunities… in life and around the home.

Related article: Top 10 ways to create a sophisticated master bedroom
Related article: Five mantras to get you in the mood to declutter

1. Add splashes of colour

Colour has been making a comeback in recent years and if you haven’t already jumped on the bandwagon, why not make 2026 the year to do it?! Forget this year’s Colour of the Year ‘Cloud Dancer’ and lean into some of the comforting, rich tones forecast this year like blush pinks, muted caramels, or ethereal shades like pastel lavender. I suggest looking at the colour forecast palettes curated by top paint brands like Dulux and Haymes.

From uplifting yellow to tranquil blue, colour affects our emotions and moods and we delve into colour theory in this article. Introducing a new colour palette to a room makes a dramatic difference to the way we feel in the space — and you don’t have to go overboard!

Simply using 3-5 pops of your colour palette across a room is enough. An easy way to introduce colour is to select two colours and one neutral, and then use a ratio of 60:30:10 where 60% of the space is one of those colours, 30% is another colour and 10% is your accent colour. This is an effortless and fool-proof way to introduce a colour palette that feels harmonious.

Of course, if you feel bold, you could go BIG and paint your walls. You could select a few accent walls or embrace the colour drenching trend where you use one cohesive colour from floors to ceiling (yes, that means painting your ceiling, walls and even skirtings all the same hue). Colour drenching looks fab in small spaces where you can create a cocoon effect so perhaps this is something to try in your powder room or reading nook. We share all our tips on how to paint like a pro in this article.

2. Create a vignette you love

How’s the top of your sideboard, dresser or bedside table looking? If you do an eye roll every time you look at one of those spaces, why not turn it into a vignette you love?!

It’s super simple to create a vignette (aka a styled arrangement) and I share my top vignette tips in this article.

Some easy things to remember:

• use a base of some kind to anchor the arrangement (in the pic below I used a stack of books or you could use a trivet or tray)
• mix up the height and scale of the objects on top, such as the taller and wider glass cloche and the smaller crystal
• play with materials, I’ve used glass, metal, crystal and books
• use an odd number of objects, clusters of 3, 5 or 7 look best
• introduce a pop of life, such as the devil’s ivy plant

3. Rearrange furniture

After the festive season, our wallets can feel a little stretched but freshening up your home doesn’t have to cost money.

Simply rearranging furniture — or shopping your home as we like to call it — can have major impact. Consider switching side tables or occasional chairs between rooms, or trying a different furniture layout within the one room. At the very least, we suggest pulling furniture away from walls to give breathing space to a room.

4. Out with the old

You know how in the intro we said the start of the new year is a time to let go of the old? Well around the home that means decluttering in a big way!

If you don’t love it or haven’t used it in the past 12 months, it’s a sign you may just be able to let it go.

Decluttering can actually be a good opportunity to sell items you no longer want or need to make money to buy that piece you’ve always wanted. Use platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree and eBay to earn a little extra cash to put towards things you actually want and need. Check out these top decluttering tips to help you get started.

5. Replace your mattress

They say we spend a third of our lives in bed so we better make it a comfortable one! If you notice your mattress doesn’t support your body, is lumpy or just uncomfortable, it’s time to upgrade. A new mattress can make a world of difference to our health — particularly if you suffer from insomnia or pain.

You may have read Gina’s product review of a Tempur Sensation Elite mattress with Cooltouch. She did a lot of research when it was time to upgrade their mattress and ultimately decided to make the investment into a Tempur. More recently, she has also purchased several mattresses from Emma. Wherever you choose to shop, a quality mattress can literally change your life!

6. Give your bathroom a quick style

The first room we go to in the morning and often the last room we’re in before we go to bed at night is our bathroom. Yet, this is one room that often gets overlooked in the styling stakes.

Treating yourself to some beautiful bath products, fresh towels and an indoor plant is all it takes to create a more inviting space.

Find loads of bathroom styling inspiration and our top tips in this article.

7. Restore an old piece of furniture

Impress yourself with an upcycle project! If you’ve got a drab piece of furniture that’s still got good bones, you could get crafty and give it a new look.

From reupholstering to repainting, there are thousands of DIY tutorials you can check out online for inspiration. This dresser upcycle is one idea of what can be done.

8. Introduce more greenery

Indoor plants are always a good idea! From ferns to succulents, cactus to palms, there is an endless choice of plants you could choose but here are our top 20 hard to kill indoor plants.

9. Hang some new wall art

As Julia Green says “Art doesn’t always have to be behind glass” so when looking for new wall art, consider sculptural pieces or wall hangings as well.

There’s a huge range of affordable wall prints on the market today and if you really want to treat yourself, you could also commission an original artwork from a fave artist.

10. Light up your space

Like colour, lighting plays a big part in affecting how we feel in our home. If all the lighting in your home is from the ceiling, you may want to look at investing in some floor lamps or table lamps to introduce softer and more ambient lighting. Check out this post for all you need to know about creating a winning lighting plan.

11. Redress your bed

Fall in love with your bedroom again by giving your bed a hot new look. Select a quilt cover that ties into your new colour palette or fits with the new direction you want to take your interiors this year. Find a few cushions to complement the look and finish with a throw.

If you love the earthy tones of Gina’s bed styling below, you can shop all the bedding online at the Sheet Society.

12. Refresh your window treatments

Window treatments looking more drab than fab? Make it a goal to replace them in 2026!

Not only can new window coverings transform the look of your interiors, they can also offer significant thermal benefits. This helps your home to be more comfortable year-round, reducing the need for heating and air-conditioning — saving you on costly energy bills! Find out more about the best window coverings to insulate your home.

13. Invest in a rug

You often hear us harp on about rugs and recently we posted a detailed guide on how to select the right rug.

“It will give your room more warmth and create the sense of a zone. Having defined spaces will make you feel like the layout of your home works better,” says Amy from The Real Estate Stylist.

14. Start using candles or a diffuser

Most of us have candles in our home as a decor piece but how often do you burn them? Life is short, burn the candles! Scent works on a subconscious level and creates ambience in our home in a way few other things can.

If candles aren’t your thing, perhaps picking up a diffuser or diffusing essential oils is an idea to try. Check out our guide to essential oils here. We also love burning incense and incense holders can be a beautiful decor piece!

15. Replace your cushions

When it comes to instant, low-cost updates in the home, there’s nothing better than simply replacing your cushions! Get a luxe look for less by switching foam inserts with feature cushions.

Temple & Webster and Urban Road are just some of our fave stores (and yes, we’re aware we have a cushion addiction!). As well as introducing some fresh colours or prints, we also suggest playing around with cushion shapes and sizes. Think rectangular and square, and possibly a ball cushion too!

16. Display photos

Personalise your interiors by putting your happiest memories on display. Too often in this digital age, we take photos but don’t make the time to print and frame them. Check out our 5 stylish ways to display photos around your home.

17. Keep on top of your house cleaning

Few people find house cleaning fun but we all know it’s the secret to keeping our homes feeling fresh, inviting and stylish.

We created a free cleaning checklist that breaks down all your daily, weekly and monthly cleaning tasks so you can keep your home in ‘clean enough’ state for longer (oh, and you’ll also find some of our favourite cleaning hacks in there too!).

18. Set up a new space to support your goal

What goals have you set yourself this year? Whether it’s to kick butt in business or take more time to relax and unwind, look at where you can create a dedicated space in your home to support this goal.

A little cosy nook or stylish office can be the reminder we need to keep working at those goals.

19. Switch cupboard handles

Perhaps you’d like to makeover your laundry, kitchen or bathroom buuuuut it’s just so expensive that you need to save for a bit longer?

Rapid Renovation Expert, Naomi Findlay, swears by the impact of new handles. She included this suggestion in ways to update your kitchen for less and 5 best cosmetic bathroom upgrades. You can find our round up of the best places to shop for new handles here.

20. Organise your pantry

A cluttered pantry can be a recipe for chaos, but taking a little time to reorganise not only looks fab but also makes cooking and meal prep a breeze.

Start by clearing everything out and tossing expired items (we’re looking at you, spice jar from 2015). Wipe down shelves, then group items by category — think baking supplies, snacks, and canned goods. Invest in clear containers or baskets to keep things tidy and visually appealing, and don’t forget to label them for easy access.

Get all our pantry organisation tips here.

21. Give your garden some TLC

One of the best quick ways to freshen up your home is actually outside. Because if we’re being honest, technically your garden creates the first impression of your home. So if it’s looking unruly or just a bit neglected, why not pop on the gardening gloves and get stuck in. Defining gardening beds, topping up mulch and filling in sparse areas are a few easy ways to create big impact. We share everything to do in the garden by season in our gardening guides here.

If you don’t have a garden, perhaps starting a herb garden on your balcony or creating a more inviting front entrance could be ideas to try.

22. Style up your entry

Your entry can be beautiful and welcoming… or a neglected zone. So if your entry resembles a dumping ground or just has you feeling uninspired, why not give it a quick refresh?!

Creating a stylish entry is simple and a few tips are to:

• have a tray or bowl of some kind to store keys and smaller items (often called a ‘catch all’ tray)
• consider using a mirror or artwork to take advantage of wall space
• incorporate greenery of some kind, flowers or foraged stems (as I used in the video below) look fab. Or an indoor plant is another great option.

Or if you want to go one better, why not create a dedicated drop zone or mudroom in your entry?! We’ve got all the inspo and design advice on how to create a mudroom or drop zone here.

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A post shared by Gina Ciancio | Style Curator (@stylecuratorau)

23. Refresh your bookshelf or sideboard styling

When was the last time you switched up your bookshelf or sideboard styling? It’s easy to let pockets of the home become stale… especially when they were such a struggle to style in the first place! But if it’s been a year or more since you pulled everything out of your bookshelf or on a surface area like your sideboard, take this opportunity to switch things up.

We’re all about creating a sense of life and energy in the home and one way to do this is simply rearranging what you already have. Unlike some tips in this round up, this home refresh idea doesn’t cost a cent! Move objects between rooms or take a second look at what you have stashed away in cupboards — you might be pleasantly surprised to find some decor you’d forgotten about!

24. Paint your front door

If you just want to dip your toe into adding pops of colour to your home, try painting your front door!

From red to purple, pink and green — and everything in between — we have all the painted front door colour inspiration you need in this article. Oh and before you pick up a paint brush, be sure to check out our pro painting tips.

25. Give functional items an aesthetic glow up

Everyday items like tissue boxes, remotes and chargers are a necessary part of life… but they don’t have to bring down the aesthetic of your home! If you there are always things you always hide before guests come over or that make you cringe when you look at them, why not give them a quick glow up?

An easy and affordable DIY is to make your own tissue box cover and I’ve got tutorials on how to do that using tissue paper or tiles. Another simple fix is adding a stylish box to your coffee table where you can store (read: hide) your remote controls. Cables are another eyesore and can often be tucked away using cable clips or even eliminated altogether by switching to battery or rechargeable options. Small changes like these instantly make a room feel more considered without costing much at all.

26. Buy fresh flowers and open up the windows

Finally, give your home the quickest freshen up of all by treating yourself to a beautiful bunch of flowers and opening up the windows. The new trend in flowers is ‘intentional unarranged florals’ so feel free to take a more casual approach (some foraging perhaps?) and create your own perfectly imperfect floral arrangements.

A fresh breeze, sunshine and the sweet scent of flowers will be sure to boost your spirits. And make your freshly cut flowers last longer by following these tips.

Will you use any of our quick ways to freshen up your home? Or do you have additional ideas to refresh the home? We’d love you to share them in the comments below!

More styling ideas

This article was first published in January 2017 and continues to be updated with latest styling tips and images.

The post 26 quick ways to freshen up your home in 2026 appeared first on Style Curator.

To help ease the pressure, we’re chatting with design expert Kylie O’Hara of Luxus Home and Garden® to get her practical tips for creating more room to relax, entertain and connect.

Related article: How to create a gorgeous grazing board
Related article: Design inspo: Beautiful breakfast nooks

1. Start by clearing visual clutter

When you’re hosting family and friends in a smaller home, floor and surface space quickly become precious. Kylie suggests doing a quick edit of the areas people will actually use before guests arrive, like dining tables, kitchen benches, coffee tables and entry zones.

“Clear away anything that doesn’t need to be there, from everyday paperwork to decorative objects that can be temporarily relocated. Even moving a few non-essential items into a bedroom or spare room can instantly make shared areas feel more generous.

“Tidying as you go during the event also helps the space feel calm and prevents that overwhelming clean-up at the end of the night,” she adds.

2. Rethink the floor plan, not just the furniture

Kylie says you don’t need a large home to host well — but you do need clear circulation. She suggests taking a fresh look at how people will move through your living areas and outdoor spaces.

“Pushing larger furniture pieces towards the perimeter of the room helps create clear pathways and prevents bottlenecks. In tighter spaces, it’s often better to prioritise movement over symmetry.

“For example, you may consider using a bench seat against a wall with your dining table to create a dining nook. Bench seats often seat more people (especially children or teens), and this can save up to a metre of space in the dining area. This freed up space could be used for additional stools around a kitchen island or an additional small sofa in your living room, depending on the floor plan of your home.”

3. Choose furniture that can do double duty

“When entertaining in a small home, versatility is everything. Furniture that performs more than one function allows your space to adapt as the gathering unfolds,” explains Kylie.

“Extendable dining tables, nesting tables, benches and ottomans that can act as both seating and surfaces are all incredibly useful. Storage sofas or benches are also ideal for hiding clutter while still providing comfortable seating. And don’t stress if everything doesn’t match — relaxed, layered seating often feels more inviting than a perfectly coordinated setup.”

4. Entertain in a way that suits the space

If seating is limited, Kylie says it’s a good idea to rethink how food is served. “Grazing boards, shared platters and buffet-style meals encourage guests to move, mingle and spread out naturally, rather than being anchored to a single table.”

She says this approach works particularly well when entertaining across multiple zones. “Indoors and out, it helps smaller spaces feel lively rather than crowded. Guests tend to enjoy the freedom to circulate, chat and settle where they feel most comfortable.”

5. Create zones to keep things flowing

Even in compact homes, defining zones helps gatherings feel organised rather than chaotic.

“Different areas can naturally serve different purposes — a spot for kids to play, a shaded outdoor area for drinks, a dining zone for food, and a quieter corner for conversation.

“If possible, it can also be helpful to keep one room relatively calm, giving guests (and hosts) a place to step away from the noise for a moment. Zoning isn’t about restriction — it’s about making the most of every part of your home so it works harder when you need it to.”

Thanks so much Kylie for stopping by and sharing these practical small space entertaining ideas! We hope you picked up a few tips to try at your home for next time guests come and visit. Do you have other tips to add? Post it as a comment below!

More entertaining ideas

The post Five easy ways to create more space when entertaining at home appeared first on Style Curator.