Ideal Home

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• How to lower a gas bill – 8 ways to reduce costs
• Experts warn against redecorating with these four colours this January
• Best bathroom scales – 6 brilliant buys to help track your health from home
• How much does it cost to run a dehumidifier? And how can you save?
• Expert warns drying washing inside could be damaging your home
• Rustic kitchen ideas to create a warm and welcoming space
• Blue Bathroom Ideas – 10 ways to use shades of blue
• Living room accent chair ideas – to enhance seating arrangements
• Kitchen island ideas – create a focal point for cooking and socialising
• Painted kitchen ideas to add interest and impact to your space

How to lower a gas bill – 8 ways to reduce costs Posted: 14 Jan 2022 01:00 AM PST Household energy bills have begun to soar, an increase driven by gas prices hitting a record high as the world emerged from lockdown in 2021. Understanding how to lower a gas bill is becoming a critical housekeeping skill that we all need to learn. It pays to understand how to save energy at home. Not only will this help you save money, but you'll also be playing a part in reducing the use of fossil fuels and the impacts of climate change. How to reduce a gas bill According to Ofgem, households on default tariffs paying by direct debit will see an increase of £139 from £1,138 to £1277 per year on electricity and gas bills, while prepayment customers will see an increase of £153 from £1,156 to £1309. Take a look at our list of top ideas you can implement in your home to help with energy conservation. Image credit: Future PLC 1. Review your energy bills Unfortunately, switching energy providers to find a cheaper energy deal is pretty much a thing of the past since OfGem increased the energy price cap by £139 a year at the start of October 2021, with further increases expected in April 2022. New research by Energy Saving Trust has found that energy bills could rise by £240 in 2022 for a typical three-bedroom, gas-heated home. However, while any savings are likely to be minimal, it is still worth considering how to switch energy suppliers and contacting your supplier to make sure you're on the best tariff for your home's energy usage and comparing it with competitor providers – especially if you're about to come out of a fixed-rate tariff contract. 2. Don't leave appliances on standby There are lots of appliances that draw power even when they are on standby. Figures published by British Gas suggest that UK households waste an average of £30 a year powering appliances that they're not even using. Whereas Energy Saving Trust believes you can save even more. 'If you make sure that everything is switched off at the wall when you've finished with it you could save around £40 a year on your energy bills and 50 kg of CO2,' says Brian Horne, Senior Insights & Analytics Consultant at Energy Saving Trust. 'That's the equivalent to driving 180 miles from Manchester to Newcastle,' he says. 'This sneaky energy usage is known as vampire power,' says Andrew Collinge, Heating Product Manager at BestHeating. 'To combat this, you could invest in a standby saver, which is a simple solution to help you navigate the minefield of energy wastage. Plug all your appliances into a standby saver and then programme it to respond to a single remote control. It will also automatically cut the power to an appliance when it realises it has gone into standby mode.' 3. Keep heating systems maintained Another way to lower your gas bill is a yearly service by a Gas Safe Registered engineer. This will ensure your boiler is working at maximum capacity. During a service, the engineer will check, clean and replace parts and catch any potential problems before the system breaks down. 'Keeping a system maintained doesn't just help lower a gas bill, it will keep it both safe and working efficiently,' says Andrew Collinge. 'An efficient boiler uses less energy to heat a house, which means regular services can help keep energy costs lower.' Martyn Bridges, Head of Technical Communication and Product Management at Worcester Bosch agrees: 'It's especially important to book in regular boiler services following a summer of infrequent use. Not having your boiler serviced could lead to faults, higher energy bills, and your warranty ending early.' Image credit: Future PLC 4. Replace an old boiler to reduce your gas bill If your boiler is more than 12-15 years old, is expensive to run and is breaking down regularly, it might be time to consider a replacement boiler. 'On average, over half of our annual household energy bills come from heating our homes,' says Victoria Billings, Director of Marketing at Worcester Bosch. That's why having an efficient and cost-effective heating system is vital, both for lowering your gas bill and for the environment. 'While a new boiler can be expensive (usually upwards of £1,000), they are a good investment as a newer model will significantly cut your bills,' says Andrew Collinge. Heating company Vaillant agrees, stating a 30 per cent reduction in bills for homeowners who invest in one of its energy-efficient boilers. 'Modern boilers are all condensing boilers, which have a large heat exchanger. This means more heat is recovered and cooler gases are sent up the flue, making it more efficient,' explains Andrew Collinge. 'To put it into numbers, new A-rated boilers (any boiler over a 90 per cent efficiency) can give you 90p or more worth of heat for every £1 you put in.’ ‘In contrast, this is 60-80p for every £1 in older models. Replacing your old boiler also has benefits for the environment. This is because a more efficient boiler will use less fuel to heat your house, reducing your carbon footprint,' he says. 5. Turn down the water temperature You should have the option on your boiler to lower the temperature of the hot water that comes out of your taps and shower heads. If you're finding the water that comes out of it too hot to touch, you're likely to be wasting gas and money, so try turning it down a few degrees until you reach the optimum temperature. 6. Invest in a smart thermostat A smart thermostat allows you to operate your heating system remotely via an app on your mobile phone or tablet. Some will save your daily routine and work out the best usage for you, others will alter your settings depending on the weather. 'Some smart thermostats can also adjust the temperature of your boiler output to make sure it's always operating at optimum efficiency,' says Brian Horne. Sam Jump, Product Manager at Wunda Group even recommends teaming a smart thermostat with smart thermostatic radiator valves so you can remotely control exactly what rooms in your house are heated. 'When utilised properly, it's one of the cheapest and most convenient ways to improve energy ratings in your home, cutting heating bills and reducing CO2 emissions,' says Sam. 7. Lower your thermostat to reduce your gas bill Image credit: Future PLC According to Moneysavingexpert.com, for each degree you cut the thermostat you can expect to cut your energy bills by around four per cent. That’s about £65 a year on average for a typical home. 'The World Health Organisation says that 18 degrees is enough for healthy adults, with slightly higher temperatures needed for the very old or young. So consider popping on a jumper at home and seeing what temperature your household is comfortable at,' says Will Lynn at Moneysavingexpert.com. Martyn Bridges agrees: 'If you're wondering about the most efficient way to heat your home, it's best to tailor it to your lifestyle. Of course, due to the government's current pandemic advice, we are all currently at home for the majority of our day. So think about keeping your home at a comfortable temperature for you and your family, but remember that you can wear layers too to save cash in the long run,' he says. 8. Make sure your home is well insulated None of the changes above will lower your gas bill if your home is old, draughty and leaky. Which is why insulating your home can significantly help reduce household energy bills. 'Good insulation is key to making your home more energy efficient,' says Brian Horne. 'If you can maximise the thermal performance of your roof, walls, floor, windows and doors, that will give you the best possible foundation for becoming a low-energy household.' 'When it comes to insulating your house, your roof should be the first place you look to,' says Andrew Collinge. 'This is because a roof can be responsible for more than 35 per cent of heat lost in a house. Roof insulation is the cheapest and quickest way to stop heat escaping. And the material used for this purpose can even be installed by keen DIYers,' he explains. Around a third of heat in an insulated home is lost through the walls according to the Energy Saving Trust. 'Most homes in the UK have either solid walls that can be insulated from the inside or outside, or cavity walls, which have a gap that can be filled with insulation,' says Brian Horne. To reduce your gas bill, he advises installing floor insulation too. 'If you have a newer home, it will most likely have solid concrete floors, onto which you can add a layer of rigid insulation, whereas older homes with suspended timber floors can be insulated by fitting a layer of mineral wool under the floorboards,' says Brian Horne. The post How to lower a gas bill – 8 ways to reduce costs appeared first on Ideal Home.

Experts warn against redecorating with these four colours this January Posted: 13 Jan 2022 11:00 PM PST Redecorating this year? An interior designer has revealed the colours to avoid in January. According to Tracy Hatch from Raspberry Interiors, we should be enveloping ourselves in warm and comforting tones to help us through this ghastly month. We asked a colour psychologist for his thoughts, and which of the paint trends for 2022 will be the most uplifting. Image credit: The French Bedroom Co Colours to avoid in January Speaking to Stelrad, Tracy Hatch said that we should be avoiding the following four colours: grey, lilac, pale blue and crimson. Instead, she recommends selecting a palette of warm greens and terracotta to make your home feel cosy. Tracy says pale tones are colours to avoid in January, when the days are shorter. ‘Earthy tones are a great way to bring the outdoor in, this can help people feel like they aren't missing out on the dark days,’ she says. ‘Red is a great colour, but increased exposure to this shade might leave you feeling more agitated,’ Tracy adds. Something to bear in mind for your 2022 living room paint ideas. Image credit: Sofology Colour psychologist Lee Chambers says, ‘in the colder, darker months, with the positive anchors of Christmas and New Year’s behind us, it’s easy to literally feel blue with the short days and colder temperatures. But within our domestic environments, we have more than central heating and lighting that we can use to feel less blue in January.’ Lee agrees that warm and welcoming tones can gently stimulate us, elevating our mood without overwhelming us, giving us that little buzz of energy to push us out of our winter slumber. ‘Gentle oranges and greens do this well, foster a feeling of spring returning, and create a feeling of space to grow into,’ he says. So, oranges, warm terracotta and green could be the way to go. Or you might be content with a warm white on the walls and accent colours brought in through furniture and rugs. We love a green rug as it gives the impression of grass underfoot. Image credit: Claude & Leighton It’s safe to say we’re all missing the sunshine, so a sunny yellow could also be a nice idea – be it on our walls, cushion covers or favourite coffee mug. Try something like Farrow & Ball’s Babouche on the walls for your hallway ideas, as it isn’t too overpowering. When it comes to boosting our mood, we think a couple of warm hues in soft and ‘liveable’ shades are a winner. The post Experts warn against redecorating with these four colours this January appeared first on Ideal Home.

Best bathroom scales – 6 brilliant buys to help track your health from home Posted: 13 Jan 2022 10:30 AM PST In search of a pair of the best bathroom scales to follow you on your health kick? Perhaps you’d just like to own a pair to keep in your bathroom to check on your health? Either way, our guide features some of the best bathroom scales on the market this year. To not only calculate your weight, but in most cases, a set of bathroom scales can determine your body fat percentage, BMI plus more. Rest assured that these bathroom scales are just as good, if not better than the ones you might find at your local gym. We’ve listed a mix of run-of-the-mill bathroom scales and smart bathroom scales in this list. Take a browse of both to see which one takes your fancy. If you only want to find out your weight and would rather avoid the faff, then we would say to avoid a smart scale since they are more expensive and you won’t be taking advantage of all of the features they can offer. Otherwise, by embracing smart technology, you can learn more about your own body and not just be hung up on your weight going up or down. By collecting data on your weight, fat percentage, bone and water mass etc, you can see how your efforts are rewarded over time and learn what works for you using a pair of smart bathroom scales. Owing a pair of scales in your bathroom isn’t for everyone, and that’s totally okay! But, if you are someone who is looking to invest, then look no further than our guide below which features several tried and tested options. Once you’ve picked a bathroom scale, and if you want more fitness inspiration, check out our guide on cheap exercise bikes for the best buys all loved by the Ideal Home team. The best bathroom scales to buy this year 1. Withings Body+ The best smart bathroom scales Type: Digital Suitable for use with: iOS, Android Measures: kg, lb, st Bluetooth/Wi-Fi connectivity: Yes Battery: Four standard AAA batteries (included) BMI: Yes Body fat: Yes Reasons to buy Excellent smartphone app Reasons to avoid Some users reported issues with incorrect measurements Nokia entered the health tech sector when it bought Withings, and the Body+ is one of the first branded products. You can track weight, BMI and fat percentage figures. It’ll even give you a visual weather report as you stare, bleary-eyed at your toes. It can also monitor muscle and bone mass and your body’s water composition. Battery life is an impressive 18 months and connecting it to your smartphone is refreshingly simple. The most impressive feature for us is Nokia’s Health Mate app. This gorgeous app works smoothly, looks great and the Dashboard section shows all your vital statistics clearly. A quick click through takes you to graphs displaying your progress, and you can also import more data like heart rate or steps – using Apple Healthkit. You can link with Runkeeper, MyFitnessPal and Nike+, even Nest smart home products (though, we’re not sure why!). We loved the ability to set Activity Alerts which remind you to do everything from stepping on the scales to having an after-dinner stroll or grabbing a piece of fruit at lunch. A selection of programs you can follow include a five-day healthier heart program, a 44week Pregnancy Tracker and Sleep Smarter mode. This uses data from Nokia’s new Sleep Sensor to get you a better night’s rest. Ideal Home's rating: 5 out of 5 stars 2. RENPHO Digital Bathroom Scales The best bathroom scales Image: RENPHO Type: Digital Suitable for use with: N/A Measures: kg, lb, st Bluetooth/Wi-Fi connectivity: No Battery: 2 AA (included) BMI: No Body fat: No Reasons to buy Easy to use Great for non-techy people Comes in white or black Low battery indicator Affordable Reasons to avoid Basic Not smart The RENPHO Digital Bathroom Scales do as they claim – minus the faff – and they work to simply just calculate your body weight. In your choice of kilograms, stone and pounds or just pounds, that is. Just flip the scale over to switch between measurements, it’s that easy. An LED screen makes it easy to read your weight, plus it has a total of four sensors for an accurate reading. Available in your choice of white or black to blend with your bathroom decor, these scales boast a strong bearing surface that can withstand up to 180kg. An error message will display if there is too much weight on the scale. With anti-skid feet, it has rounded edges to make it safe to store around pets and children. Whilst we’re on the topic of storage: it’s incredibly slim so it can slot anywhere from underneath a bathroom cabinet to between your toilet and your tub. While this scale can’t determine your BMI or measure your body fat percentage, it is a great basic option for anyone who just wants to know their weight and that’s it. It’s possibly the least confusing bathroom scale out there since you need only stand on it for it to begin calculating. Ideal Home's rating: 5 out of 5 stars 3. Tanita RD-953 The best bathroom scales for dieters Type: Digital Suitable for use with: iOS, Android Measures: kg Bluetooth/Wi-Fi connectivity: Bluetooth only Battery: 4 AA batteries required BMI: Yes Body fat: Yes Reasons to buy Metabolic age reading Extensive body measurements Reasons to avoid Bluetooth installation can be tricky Billed as ‘the world’s most extensive smart scale’ Tanita has packed on the features with these bathroom scales. It will record 10 body measurements, including the usual BMI, fat percentage and actual weight. But it also records bone mass, basal metabolic rate (BMR – the amount of energy you expend each day when at rest), visceral fat and muscle mass. It’ll even rate your physique…eek! It's an impressive, albeit terrifying, list of statistics for the average person looking to shed a few kilos. In reality, though, this is a set of scales for the fitness nerd who loves to know precisely how healthy they are. It’s also a lot to pay for a set of scales and if you’re a beginner I’d keep clear. Your data is transferred using Bluetooth and while not the easiest to set up, it was consistent and reliable. Tanita might not be a brand you’ve come across much, but it has a long reputation in the professional health industry and class-leading accuracy. Unlike Fitbit or Nokia, while easy to navigate around, the My Tanita app wasn’t the most insightful. While it was nice (well, sort of) to see all my health data on display I needed more information as to what I should do with it. Ideal Home's rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars 4. Qardiobase 2 The best bathroom scales for aesthetic reasons Type: Digital Suitable for use with: iOS, Android, Kindle Measures: lb, kg Bluetooth/Wi-Fi connectivity: Yes Battery: Lithium battery BMI: Yes Body fat: Yes Reasons to buy No batteries required Excellent design Pregnancy mode Reasons to avoid Some customers report difficulty connecting it to WiFi Smart, stylish and designed to be as least intimidating as possible, this is a cute set of scales (choose black or white glass). They can show you the cold hard facts on a huge LCD screen, using weight, BMI, Body fat percentage, muscle, bone and water composition data. Or they can swap kilos for emoticons with smiling, frowning or passive faces, all the while uploading data to the smartphone app. This set of scales links nicely with Apple Homekit data and you can share results with the Map My Fitness apps. This is handy for runners and calorie counters alike. Qardio also offer their own range of health trackers including a blood pressure monitor and ECG reader. When you step on the scales you also receive haptic feedback (a little vibration) when your data has been captured. We were pleased that the scales are rechargeable (up to 12 months use) which means fewer batteries need throwing away. We found the smart emoticons a really nice way to start the day. That’s assuming we’d been good the day before. We also loved the fact that in the pregnancy mode – which tracks mum-to-be each week – you’ll always get a happy emoticon, whatever your weight. Ideal Home's rating: 4 out of 5 stars 5. Garmin Index Smart Scale The best bathroom scales for runners   Type: Digital Suitable for use with: iOS, Android, Microsoft Measures: lb, kg  Bluetooth/Wi-Fi connectivity: Yes Battery: 4 AA batteries required BMI: Yes Body fat: Yes Reasons to buy Huge LCD display Compatible with Garmin fitness trackers Reasons to avoid Temperamental Wi-Fi connection Anyone already into their fitness tech will be familiar with Garmin and their vast range of running watches and fitness trackers. If you see someone who looks like they’ve run a marathon before breakfast, chances are they’ve got a Garmin on their wrist. So the addition of the Index Smart Scales complements the already excellent fitness tracking options available. Thanks to its huge LCD display this smart scale is the easiest to read. It boasts a huge amount of personal health information including body water, muscular and skeletal mass measurements. It provides the more typical weight, body fat and BMI figures. All this information is seamlessly passed to the Garmin Connect mobile (and desktop) app over Wi-Fi. Here you can pick apart your statistics using a suite of graphs and charts. If you’re a runner you’ll absolutely love it, but if you’re dieting it might be a bit much. That’s not to say it should be avoided by beginners and casual ‘wellness’ users. It also has sleep tracking and step counting analysis alongside weight and BMI. All things being well, the more your step graph goes up, the more your weight graph goes down. While the scales are accurate, and you can get lots from your weekly weigh-in, it’s the combination of fitness tracking and app that really impressed me. As well as tracking your training progress, the app has a number of expert training plans. These will fill your phone’s calendar with workouts and rest days. It’s a brilliant way to motivate you! Ideal Home's rating: 4 out of 5 stars 6. Salter Curve Bluetooth Smart Analyser The best value bathroom scales Type: Digital Suitable for use with: iOS, Android Measures: kg, st, lb Bluetooth/Wi-Fi connectivity: Bluetooth only Battery: 3 x AAA (included) BMI: Yes Body fat: Yes Reasons to buy Slim design Easy to store Reasons to avoid No Wi-Fi connectivity Salter is a name more associated with baking cakes than burning calories. But this set of Salter scales has loads of impressive features, a huge screen and a bargain price. It uses Bluetooth to send your vital statistics direct to the MiBody smartphone app. This can track weight, body fat percentage, body water percentage, muscle mass, bone mass, BMI and BMR. The MiBody App is extremely simple to use, which should make it appealing to beginners. We like that you can easily set yourself goals, from reducing your waist size to dropping weight and increasing muscle mass. But we would like a bit more help deciding what those goals should be and some more motivation. You can watch your progress over time and compare results to recommended ranges which is great. You can also choose different modes if you’re a child or a regular athlete. There’s not much in the way of third-party integration here. You can add Apple health kit data to the app for a broader picture of your health. However, Salter does sell a blood pressure monitor which will help you get a better overall idea of your everyday health. Ideal Home's rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars What’s the difference between normal scales and smart bathroom scales? Your run-of-the-mill bathroom scales that don’t require you to connect with an app or have Bluetooth are simply just for checking your weight. They can usually do this in your choice of kilos, pounds or stones. On the other hand, a smart scale is designed for you to get a deeper insight into your health since it can provide you with accurate BMI readings, body fat percentages plus much more. Smart scales make it easier for you to embrace a new health regime. With the generally excellent companion apps that come with the scales, you can set up your smartphone to send you reminders to do more (or eat less!), encourage you and keep you motivated. Combined with a little determination you’ll be surprised by what the latest fitness tech can help you achieve. Do I need a set of smart bathroom scales? Image credit: Fitbit Smart bathroom scales work thanks to a combination of friendly, easy-to-understand apps and a range of statistics that take into account more than just weight. Using a modern set of scales can really help you hit your health, wellness and fitness goals. As well as weight, smart scales can now tell you how much of your body is fat, muscle, water and bone. They can even recognise which member of the family is standing on the scales at any given time. This means your hubby doesn't skew all your hard work in the gym! All your data is then sent to an app either using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Then you can easily track your progress over days, weeks and months and pick up fitness tips from experts. You can even get encouragement from other members. Many leading brands such as Garmin, Fitbit and Nokia offer a complete health package. This includes various fitness and heart rate trackers, sleep monitors and even blood pressure monitors. That way you have all your personal data together. It sounds complicated – and mildly terrifying to start with – but in truth, the more you use it the better you can understand your own health, and realise there’s more to wellness than just weight. The bad news? There’s no quick fix – you still need to put in the hard work. Give it time though and you’ll start to build up a picture of your health and learn what works. You’ll see where you can improve, and you don't have to be a fitness freak to appreciate the difference a smart scale can make. What does all the health data mean? Weight All the scales here can measure your total weight and display in either kg, lb. or stone. For all the advanced health data you need to have bare feet for the sensors to work. Body Mass Index (BMI) This is the ratio between your weight and height – you’ll input your height into the app when you sign up. It’s a pretty standard indicator of overall health, but most health professionals now want more data to assess an individual’s health. Bone Mass Your bone mass won’t change day to day, so this isn't a figure you need to worry about that often, but if you notice a change over several months it could be worth investigating further. Body Fat Percentage Body Fat Percentage is the proportion of fat to the total body weight. We all need some fat, but too much can damage your long-term health. Reducing excess levels of body fat can directly reduce the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, type 2 diabetes even some cancers. Too little body fat may lead to osteoporosis in, irregular periods, even infertility. Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) The daily minimum level of energy or calories your body requires when at rest (including sleeping) in order to function effectively. Increasing muscle mass will speed up your BMR. A person with a high BMR burns more calories when resting than someone with a low BMR. Muscle mass This is the weight of muscle in your body, and as your muscle mass increases (through exercise) the rate you burn calories increases which increases your BMR. This helps to reduce body fat and weight in a healthy way. Body water (%) You lose water continuously throughout the day, especially when you’re exercising, so it’s important to keep hydrated. If scales measure this, it can recommend you take on more water which can make you feel better. The post Best bathroom scales – 6 brilliant buys to help track your health from home appeared first on Ideal Home.

How much does it cost to run a dehumidifier? And how can you save? Posted: 13 Jan 2022 07:42 AM PST Condensation on windows, stuffy rooms, mould and musty odours are all signs that your home might benefit from reducing the humidity. But how much does it cost to run a dehumidifier to get rid of these problem symptoms? There's a misconception that dehumidifiers are heavy, noisy, energy-guzzling appliances that are only used in homes with serious damp. Whereas in fact, most newer models are quiet, fairly light to move around and energy efficient. Type and size affect running costs, though, so knowing how much electricity a dehumidifier uses allows you to balance this with its benefits. We've worked out how much you can expect to spend per hour to run a dehumidifier – as well as how to save energy at home with some cost-cutting tricks. How much does it cost to run a dehumidifier? According to the Energy Saving Trust the national average price (as of November 2021) per pence/kWh of electricity is 20.33p. We have rounded it to 20p for illustration purposes. The best way to work out how much energy a dehumidifier uses on its maximum setting is to look at its wattage. Mini models can use as little as 22 watts, while high volume dehumidifiers go up to around 500 watts. An example dehumidifier that can extract up to 20 litres a day, with a wattage of 480w would use 0.48 kWh, meaning that an hour's usage would cost just under 10p (9.6p). In comparison, an example dehumidifier that can extract up to 12 litres a day, with a wattage of 157w (0.157 kWh) would cost 3p an hour. Dehumidifiers rarely run constantly, though, as they're controlled via their humidistat that turn them on and off when needed. 'Remember that you're more likely to use your dehumidifier during the winter,' says Chris Michael, Director at Meaco (UK). 'The wattage that a dehumidifier uses is turned into heat, so you get a dual benefit – less condensation on the windows, less chill in the air and the space feels warmer.' Credit: Meaco Are some dehumidifiers cheaper to run than others? There are two types of dehumidifier, and running costs will be similar provided they are used in the right conditions. But each different type of dehumidifier needs different conditions to run efficiently. Use the wrong model in the wrong conditions, and costs will increase. Desiccant dehumidifiers draw in the air and pass it over material that soaks up moisture like a sponge. They're ideal for colder areas that might drop below 15C, such as a conservatory or utility room. The desiccant is regenerated by an internal heater so the process can be repeated. Compressor, or refrigerant, dehumidifiers work by creating a cold surface so that when warm, damp air comes into contact with it, condensation forms and the water can be collected in a tank. They're more suitable for warm rooms such as living rooms or bedrooms as they'll have to work harder in cold spaces to create condensation inside. Both will be able to help get rid of damp, condensation and mould in your home. 'The air coming out of the compressor dehumidifier will be about 2C warmer while the air coming out of a desiccant dehumidifier will be about 10-12C warmer,' says Chris Michael. 'Compressor dehumidifiers are in general cheaper to run but you'll mostly be using your dehumidifier in the winter months and the extra energy that a desiccant uses is released into the room as heat.' Image Credit: Oliver Gordon What energy saving features should I look for when buying a dehumidifier? Buy a dehumidifier with these clever functions to help make them as efficient as possible. Many of our best dehumidifiers will come with: 1. Advanced humidistats A humidistat works much like a thermostat, detecting when humidity rises and falls. Advanced humidistats work more efficiently. For example, while some dehumidifiers keep running to check humidity, Meaco's Control Logic feature on its low energy models checks for humidity every 30 minutes, going to sleep in-between to save energy. 2. Multiple speeds Choosing a model with more than one speed means you can have it on low on days when you need it less. Alternatively, the latest dehumidifiers can select the right speed for you, taking the guesswork out of having it on too high or too low. 3. Laundry drying function Instead of running flat out, an energy-saving Laundry mode will test the air and adjust the power usage based on the humidity – perfect for when you're airing washing on an indoor drying rack. By reducing power consumption as required, you don't have to worry about the dehumidifier continuing to run when the job is done. Image credit: Sussie Bell How can I cut the cost of running a dehumidifier? 1. Turn your thermostat down Moisture in the air can make a house feel cold. Once a dehumidifier has removed the moisture from the air, you should be able to spend less on your heating utility bills. 2. Close the windows There's no need to dehumidify the air outside. When your dehumidifier is on, remember to shut the room's windows and any outside doors. 3. Clean the filter Keep your dehumidifier running efficiently by vacuuming the filter to clear dust and particles. If you're using it regularly, you may need to do this every fortnight or so. 4. Limit the excess humidity Don't make your dehumidifier work harder than it has to. Make sure your kitchen and bathroom extractor fans are working well, open windows after a shower and while cooking, and remember to pop lids on saucepans. The post How much does it cost to run a dehumidifier? And how can you save? appeared first on Ideal Home.

Expert warns drying washing inside could be damaging your home Posted: 13 Jan 2022 04:30 AM PST In winter the only option for drying the washing is usually hanging it up inside, however, an expert has revealed that this could be causing costly damp and mould damage to your home. This time of year usually sees a spike in search for how to get rid of damp as we juggle the cold, wet weather and saving money on energy bills. However, Lee Devlin, MD at Homecure Plumbers warns you could be creating a serious damp problem for yourself by drying clothes indoors. Image credit: Sussie Bell ‘Recently washed clothes hold about three litres of water, which as clothes dry, evaporates and dissipates around the home,’ he explains. ‘This humid air can then come into contact with cold surfaces – such as walls and windows – and potentially lead to costly damage, hazardous mould growth, and an increase in dust mites in and around the home.’ If you don’t have any option but to dry your clothes indoors without the aid of a tumble dryer, don’t panic. Fortunately, there are plenty of easy fixes that will minimise any potential damage. Tips to avoid damage when drying clothes inside 1. Dry clothes in warm and well-ventilated areas Ventilation is crucial for reducing the moisture in the air and can be done by placing laundry near windows and extractor fans. ‘If you have a spare room, with good ventilation and warmth, it can be an idea to utilise this and create dedicate a ‘washing room’,’ suggests Lee. ‘Ideally using a dehumidifier to help reduce the moisture in the air and help heat the room further.’ image credit: Paul Raeside 2. Never dry wet washing on radiators While warmth might help dry clothes quickly, Lee warns that this is actually one of the worst things you can do. It makes it harder for the heat to spread around the home, costing you more in heating, meaning washing can ironically take longer to dry. It can also increase the number of cold surfaces in the home which are perfect conditions for damp. 3. Spread out clothes on racks ‘It’s important to spread clothes out enough, and regularly move clothes around to prevent washing in the middle from staying damp for longer,’ says Lee. So if you are tempted to cram a month’s worth of washing onto one clothes horse – just don’t. Until the summer weather returns drying clothes inside is a necessary evil, however, if you spread the washing out, keep your home ventilated and warm, you should keep any potential damage at bay. The post Expert warns drying washing inside could be damaging your home appeared first on Ideal Home.

Rustic kitchen ideas to create a warm and welcoming space Posted: 13 Jan 2022 04:30 AM PST Everyone loves a comforting kitchen that makes you feel instantly at home. One of the most authentic ways you can achieve this is through the rustic kitchen ideas. Whether you’re going for a full room revamp, or just want to integrate a few rural touches, this style will help add an inviting appeal to your space. You may feel that your kitchen ideas are limited to the style of your house as a whole, and where it’s situated. However, rustic kitchen ideas work equally as well in a modern house as they do in a classic country abode. While the traditional rustic kitchens include range cookers, Belfast sinks and a solid farmhouse table, there are contemporary aspects which are key to this look, too. For example, sleek Shaker-style cabinetry, industrial finishes and textured, raw materials. Pendant lighting, bar stools and a hint of copper and leather can all bring a fresh new feel to a rustic kitchen. ‘Country-style has experienced a revival, perhaps in part due to the emergence of cottagecore and the stylish rural properties that continue to feature on our Instagram feeds,’ says Alex Main, director, The Main Company.  This desire for a country-inspired interior has evolved slightly, with a softer colour palette and more modern approach to this timeless trend.’ Rustic kitchen ideas From materials and textures to colours and accessories, these are our favourite ways to work rustic kitchen ideas into your home. 1. Open up your shelving Image credit: Future PLC/Polly Eltes ‘The almost-defining trait of a farmhouse kitchen is that dreamy pared down feel with closed lower cabinets and lots of open shelving,’ says Al Bruce, Founder of Olive & Barr. ‘They give you a chance to display those unique bits n' bobs that create a rustic farmhouse feel: decorative plates, cast iron pots, mason jars filled with dried, your rustic wooden bowls and utensils, anything and everything.’ ‘Not only will the addition of open shelving make your space feel lighter and brighter, but you'll also have more opportunities to bring your personality to the forefront.’ It’s also one of the core small kitchen ideas to give the illusion of more space. 2. Add industrial touches Image credit: Future PLC/Rachel Reeve The industrial trend is intrinsically linked to rustic kitchen ideas. Feature brick walls, metal detailing and exposed pipeworks all give that rural-with-an-edge vibe. To keep it on the rustic end of industrial, make sure to mix in with plenty of woods and warm colourways. Rustic kitchens should feel welcoming, so steer away from the ultra monochromatic modern kitchen ideas look. 3. Create a homey scheme Image credit: Future PLC Rustic kitchen ideas should be full of inviting personality. Use this space to showcase your favourite colours and objects. A touch of eclecticism is very welcome, so include rag rugs, patterned tiles and mismatched crockery. In terms of colour, warm neutrals, blues and yellows are most associated with this theme. Stick to one for a more pared back approach, or layer up for a quirkier finish. 4. Consider your flooring Image credit: Quorn Stone When choosing rustic kitchen flooring ideas, natural materials are a must, and if you can go for large flagstone tiles, then all the better. ‘For centuries, estates and country homes have used flagstone flooring, thanks to their hardwearing characteristics and classic appearance that have stood the test of time,’ says Isabel Fernandez, Director of Quorn Stone. ‘Now more than ever, people are wanting to create this timeless look in their kitchens by choosing large format flagstones. Most commonly, the 'free length' or 'random length' tile size is opted for, by which the widths are fixed (usually 500mm or 600mm) and then lengths are a random selection ranging upwards to 1000mm. This free length flagstone has the ability to work in all sized kitchens and gives maximum focus on the beauty of each tile.' 5. Add unexpected pattern Image credit: Future PLC Patterned wallpaper isn’t always on trend for kitchens, but it most certainly is one of the heartland rustic kitchen ideas. If you’re nervous about wallpapering the walls, or simply want to limit pattern, then think laterally. Paper the backs of glass-fronted cabinets and inside drawers for joyful bursts of colour and pattern without your overall scheme being overwhelmed. Plus, this take on kitchen wallpaper ideas is easier and more affordable to change should you get tired of your choice of design. 6. Choose Shaker style cabinetry Image credit: Tom Howley 'Regardless of whether you live in a modern renovation or rural cottage, traditional shaker kitchen ideas and cabinetry is perfect for creating a welcoming, lived-in look,' says Tom Howley, Design Director at Tom Howley Kitchens. 'Charming cottages and period homes almost always have challenging features such as chimney breasts, sloping ceilings, quaint proportions, quirky nooks and uneven floors. Choosing a bespoke shaker design allows you to preserve and work around these original features, enhancing your space's look and individuality.' 7.  Add interest with panelling Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole Panelling is a simple and chic way of integrating rustic kitchen ideas into your space. These sleek lines on your cabinetry will add interest and the subtlest suggestion of pattern. For a more full-on approach, take your panelling up onto your kitchen splashback ideas, too. 8. Think about your lighting Image credit: Olive and Barr ‘Of all the ways to add a pinch of rustic charm to your kitchen, getting creative with your kitchen lighting ideas is probably the quickest, easiest and most-effective,’ says  Al Bruce, Founder of Olive & Barr. ‘The lights you opt for a great way of adding a touch of country charm to your kitchen. From adding filament bulbs to your industrial-style fixtures to hanging Mason jar pendant lights above your island, to illuminating your prep space with a reclaimed patina light shade that matches the materials used in the rest of your space.’ 9. Add a cupboard skirt Image credit: British Standard by Plain English Cupboard or sink skirts very traditional way of bringing rustic warmth into your kitchen. ‘Instantly softening, a sink skirt is also a great way to inject colour and pattern into your kitchen or pantry,’ says Karla Patterson, designer at British Standard. ‘Affordable and stylish, it’s also a clever way to conceal any unsightly storage and undersink spaces.’ Choose a contrasting colour to your cabinetry to make a statement, or use pattern to pick up on it if you prefer a more toned down finish. 10. Mix and match materials Image credit: Future PLC/Polly Eltes Rustic kitchens shouldn’t feel too ‘done’. One way to make sure it has a lived in feel is to mix and match materials, colours and textures. You’re nearly looking for the kitchen to feel as if it has evolved over time. Sticking to natural materials and a tonal palette is a useful way of guiding your choices so everything still sits together peacefully. 11. Use warm neutrals Image credit: Future PLC ‘Pale greys, white, cream and black with wooden accents tie things all together into a wonderfully rustic space that looks as perfect in the depths of winter as it does when the summer sun pours through the windows,’ says Al from Olive & Barr. ‘That's what a neutral colour scheme does for a space.’ Remember that the key to rustic kitchens is an inviting sense of warmth, so tie in joyful bursts of nature-inspired greens and blues. 12. Use touches of burnished metals Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole Brass can add a new dimension to rustic kitchen ideas. 'Burnished brass and matt gold handles add a whole new dimension to kitchens,’ says Tom Howley. ‘Brushed or aged finishes can enhance the brightness of white paint finishes. They also echo harmoniously with the ever-popular greys and dramatic dark palettes.' How can I make my kitchen look rustic? Rustic kitchen ideas should showcase natural materials, colours and textures. Think warm woods, stone floors and tactile surfaces. They should also feel lived in, a rustic kitchen isn’t a show home. 'Cottage style kitchens are renowned for their proud displays of cookware and personal objects,’ says Tom Howley. ‘Open shelving can be a great blank canvas for showcasing your favourite antique finds. You can even countrify your shelving by incorporating bespoke brackets or corbels.’. How do you make a rustic kitchen more modern? Rustic kitchens can be modernised rather easily. One of the most popular ways of achieving this is through using touches of industrial chic.  ‘We're seeing many more homeowners experimenting with materials, creating a contrast between the classic and contemporary to create truly innovative and unique kitchen designs,’ says Alex Main, Director, The Main Company. ‘Exposed beams and distressed brickwork continue to remain popular, but these are cleverly off-set by metallic accents, high-specification appliances and eye-catching lighting." The post Rustic kitchen ideas to create a warm and welcoming space appeared first on Ideal Home.

Blue Bathroom Ideas – 10 ways to use shades of blue Posted: 13 Jan 2022 03:00 AM PST A perennial favourite, blue is synonymous with water so it's a natural choice to use in the bathroom. With so many different shades to choose from, there’s a blue bathroom idea to suit all tastes. Whether it's a dark cocooning feel, or something light and ethereal, there are lots of ways you can embrace a blue bathroom colour scheme, either using it as a whole room colour or as an accent. Blue Bathroom Ideas Finding the right blue really depends on personal choice and how the room is used. Is the bathroom your sanctuary at the end of the day? Somewhere for you to relax where a rich, deep colour would be welcoming? Or does it have to be functional for the whole family – somewhere practical that can take the rigours of the daily family routine? Blue is a colour that people see differently, one person's blue is another's green and vice versa, and it depends on which colour is blended with it, whether it’s lilac for a warm tone, or black for a deep midnight shade, and each shade creates a different mood, so decide on the ambience you want to create then pick a shade that speaks to you and you won't tire of. If you have a large room, a stand-alone bath could take centre stage and could be painted blue as a focal point, or in a small shower room, lighter shades might be better, although dark blues do work well in small spaces. Need some help? Then we've got 10 great ideas for inspiration 1. Surround yourself in colour Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles Voluptuous, mystical and alluring, deep, royal blue is a fantastic way to create a timeless feel in your bathroom and in a large room like this with good natural light, the way the light plays in the room at different times of the day creates different shades and tones offering an ever-moving palette. 'Blue is the richest of colours and historically the most expensive to produce' says Ruth Mottershead of luxury paint brand, Little Greene. 'it's a myth that blue is cold or masculine, it can bring a hypnotic allure and luxurious finish to a bathroom and is a colour so intrinsically linked to nature that it's appeal is timeless.’ Team with a marble bath and basin for a classic but contemporary look and use brass fittings and a brass wash stand with integral towel rail to warm up the scheme and add a touch of luxury. 2. Zone your space Image credit: Wallandfloors.co.uk If you have a room like this where the bath is behind a wall and partly obscured, create a focal point of colour with a subtle blend of ocean blue tiles with a deep rich glaze. The natural variations in colour and the rippled effect are reminiscent of the sea, offering a calming feel whilst laying in the bath. Other materials and textures complement it, such as the herringbone wood-effect tiles on the facing wall, which offer subtle texture, and the classic floor tiles in grey and white which add lightness and prevent the room from feeling too dark. Buy now: Vernice Abyssal blue tiles, £36.95 m2, Walls and Floors  3. Welcome blue with wallpaper Image credit: Woodchip & Magnolia People worry about bathroom wallpaper ideas because of peeling, but if there is plenty of ventilation and the room is quite large, there is no reason it can't be used, just keep it away from the wet areas, such as the shower and make sure there is a barrier behind the sink as there is here. Wallpaper will add instant colour and pattern, and it's the perfect contrast to the classic white Metro tiles and black and white tiled floor, adding a touch of indulgence and changing the look of the room entirely. A bold, overall design in a green-tinged blue works well and brings nature in too. Buy now: Mirk wallpaper in Mallard, £85 a roll, Woodchip & Magnolia 4. Introduce a window treatment Image credit: California Shutters; Blue and white shutters, POA In a white coastal-style bathroom ring the changes and introduce deep marine blue with custom-made shutters. The shutter frames make an impact at the window and add depth, and means other blue elements can be added too – such as a rug and deep blue, soft towels. You could add more colour by painting the floor blue too. 5. Opt for a coloured vanity unit Image credit: Future PLC Introduce blue with wall panelling up to dado height, and paint a vanity unit the same colour, then add a blue and white patterned floor for contrast. A pink painted bath adds a soft touch and bring the outside in with a palm and a jungle print blind. 6. Make the floor the focus in blue Image credit: Future PLC Install a new floor to really add zing to a plain bathroom. Geometrics are here to stay and this aqua blue, ochre, pink and white geometric design really stands out, and gives the room an almost Greek feel. A slender metal unit to hold the washbasin doesn't take up too much room and because you can see through it, doesn't block the light. Painting the bath and wall mirror to match enhances the colour scheme. Plain white tiles keep it from looking too 'busy'. 7. Create a blended scheme Image credit: Polly Eltes An easy way to add blue to a bathroom is simply by painting the walls. But rather than painting the whole wall, why not just paint the bottom half up to dado height and finish with a shelf for extra storage. This smoky blue shade – Stone Blue from Farrow & Ball is similar – adds depth and teams perfectly with the old wood. A unique shelf has been made across the corner to hold toiletries 8. Paint the bath blue To ring the changes in an existing bathroom, why not paint the bath in your favourite shade of blue. It's an inexpensive hack and means you could use the colour as a base to add new accessories without breaking the bank. 9. Create a focal point Image credit: Future PLC/ Polly Eltes For a clever visual trick, paint the bathroom walls blue and add a large mirror above the basins. The blue walls and glass pendant lights will be reflected in the mirror to make the room look bigger than it really is, creating a wonderful optical illusion. Natural wood is a good contrast to blue, so create a shelf to sit the basins on, with another underneath for storage. 10. Use contrasting tiles Image credit: Tile Giant Make a feature of a recessed basin area by using contrasting tiles. Crackle-finish teal Metro tiles are bookended on either side with Moroccan-style designs in a random pattern and a variety of blues for a fresh feel. Grout the Metro tiles in white to really make them stand out, and choose a bevelled edge rather than a flat edge for added interest. What colours go with blue tiles in a bathroom? 'Bathrooms are becoming somewhere where people are less afraid to make a unique statement, somewhere that feels personal and tailored to their own tastes and requirements.' Says Amanda Telford, Marketing Manager of CTD Tiles. 'With an increased focus on the 'improve don't move' effort, it's safe to say that it's an exciting time to be look at bathroom design and trends.’ ‘Blue tiles are also having their moment again and work beautifully as a focal point splash back in smaller bathing spaces. Being a flexible and diverse hue, it works beautifully with all different colourways and particularly well with whites, greys and greens, for a fresh and earthy appearance.' What colours go with a blue bathroom? 'We all love blue bathrooms – they just work. Bringing in other colours to the scheme can introduce a surprising pop of brightness or even soften the look' explains Patrick O'Donnell, Farrow & Ball brand ambassador. 'A cooler blue such as Parma Gray can be enlivened with a dollop of red, for example, on a vanity unit in Incarnadine Modern Eggshell – a quick and joyful addition.’ ‘Warmer blues with a dose of green, such as Oval Room Blue, will benefit from a more nuanced white on the ceiling such as School House White or the cleaner James White. Dark and dramatic blues like Inchyra Blue will play beautifully with a bright contrast like Arsenic – a perfect introduction to the underside of a bath or tongue & groove panelling.’ ‘Soft aqua tinged blues such as Pale Powder will work a treat with stronger tonal colours on all your woodwork, including the window frames.’ The post Blue Bathroom Ideas – 10 ways to use shades of blue appeared first on Ideal Home.

Living room accent chair ideas – to enhance seating arrangements Posted: 13 Jan 2022 12:00 AM PST You’re pleased with your colour scheme, you’re happy with the sofa and cushions, but your living room is still lacking something… sound familiar? Let us introduce you some transformative living room accent chair ideas. Accent chairs are one of the most underrated style additions any living room can have! These one-off chairs are a great way to add the finishing touch to your scheme and add a personal touch, whether it’s with a stand-out colour or pattern, or a contrasting shape that immediately draws your eye. Not only that, but they’re highly versatile, too. Need extra seating for guests? Perhaps you could do with your chair moved to another room for a special occasion? And the likelihood is that even if you change your sofa or decor, your accent chair will live on long after. Living room accent chair ideas This transformative piece of furniture can be used to add colour, texture, pattern and indulge your love for interior design, so whether you choose a contrasting style or something more subtle, make sure you take your time and put some thought into the type of accent chair that will work best for you and your living room. So, how do you go about picking one, we hear you ask? What should you be looking for when it comes to your accent chair and what models are most popular? To help you decide, we’ve created a round-up of ideas to give your living room a style boost and have you picking out your perfect living room accent chair in no time. 1. Make a statement with a bold accent shade Image credit: Future PLC What’s the first thing that catches your eye when you look at this living room? If it’s the accent chair then that’s a sign to indulge in your favourite colour. There are so many beautiful colours to choose from when it comes to upholstered furniture, but if you’re not sure about going for one that’s bright or bold with your sofa, an accent chair will allow you to trial it out first without the big spend. ‘The great thing about an accent chair is that you can go as big and bold with the colour as you like,’ says Charlie Marshall, founder of Loaf. ‘Make a statement with brighter fabrics that really pack a punch.’ 2. Compliment an existing colour scheme Image credit: Future PLC Look at the colour scheme in your living room and choose either a lighter or darker tone of the same colour. In this purple living room idea, a darker shade has been used on the sofa and rug, while the accent chair is in a vibrant fuchsia pink and the walls painted a dusky mauve – all varying shades of the same palette. The fact that it’s in touchy-feely velvet just adds to it’s luxurious appearance. 3. Design a symmetrical layout Image credit: Future PLC/ Dan Duchars Wondering how to arrange your living room furniture? Don’t for a minute think that your accent chair needs to be tucked into a corner – instead, move your furniture away from the walls and create a central seating spot. Placing your accent chair opposite your sofa creates a neat, almost formal appearance, while adding a square chest or coffee table next to the chair gives it the length needed to create a symmetrical effect. 4. Incorporate different materials Image credit: Future PLC Rather than trying to make your accent chair match your sofa, you could choose one that’s very obviously different, not only in shape but materials, too. By doing so you’ll make it a standout piece in its own right and create a much more interesting scheme. A plump traditional-style sofa in blue cotton fabric is the staple in this subtle blue sofa living room idea,  while the accent chair, with its modern Scandic-look timber frame and rich, tactile leather seat is a very different style. Whereas the sofa has rounded arms and fabric slip covers, the leather chair has lengthy angular lines and a minimal air to it. The thing that keeps them working well together is that the colour and materials have been continued through to the rest of the decor, from the wood elements on the coffee table, to the brown frames and rustic-look wallpaper with its blue and orange tint. 5. Go for a pair of accent chairs Image credit: Sofology Remember that symmetrical look we were talking about earlier? It’s the same principal here, but this time two matching accent chairs face the sofa, rather than one, echoing its width and creating balance. Although the materials are different on both the sofa and chairs, the two are similar in that they both feature very curvy, rounded shapes and are all neutral colours. While the sofa is a lush velvet, the two accent chairs are a beautiful on-trend teddy-bear bouclé and in our opinion are the type of chairs that you won’t want to leave, such is their comfortable hug-you tub shape. Buy now: Nest chair in Malham Ivory, £599,  Sofology 6. Create a quiet reading spot Image credit: DFS Prefer to keep your accent chair separate? Then make a dedicated spot for reading, relaxing or working in your living room with a small side table and lamp next to it. Opting for a striking pattern or colour gives you that visual stop-and-stare moment and, of course, you’ll want to ensure it’s comfortable – the type of chair that invites you to pause and take a pew, whether it’s to make a call, enjoy a spot in the sun by a window, or even catch 40 winks! Buy now: Zambia accent chair in leopard and black combination, £449, DFS 7. Make it match Image credit: Future PLC Now as much as we’ve been telling you to pick a contrasting accent chair, there’s also room for those that prefer their furniture to match. You don’t have to go for the exact same range as your sofa, but picking a chair in the same fabric and with matching colour legs will help the two sit harmoniously within your scheme, meaning you can allow your eye to be drawn to your accessories and decor instead. The accent chair here is in the same light grey fabric with blonde wood legs, but the differences lie with the button back and longer leg frame. Siting it to the side of your sofa creates a snug layout that is brightened with pretty cushions in floral, geometric and botanical prints, and a coral and eau de Nil colour scheme. 8. Pair an accent chair with a matching footstool There’s nothing to say your accent chair has to be a standalone piece – find one with a matching footstool and you’ve got yourself a nice little living room set with added comfort to put your feet up on. You’ll notice the check fabric used on this accent chair works perfectly within this earthy living room, with the colours echoed in the cushions and throw, and the pattern carried through to the footstool. 9. Go for tone-on-tone colour Image credit: Simon Whitmore Take inspiration from your living room walls when it comes to picking a colour for your accent chair. Choosing a material that’s a shade lighter or darker than your paint or wallpaper colour will create a colour gradient that you can easily add to with other accessories, for a harmonious living room scheme. Another touch, when going for a tone-on-tone design like this is to keep your chair cushions the same colour – think blue-on-blue-on-blue. It’s not for everyone, but if you love a colour, why not maximise it? 10. Neutrals can still add interest Image credit: Cuckooland Neutrals have really come into their own in the last few years, with new materials and textures making furniture pieces just as interesting as their brighter-coloured counterparts. If you’re opting for an accent chair that’s not bold in colour, but still want it to add something extra to your scheme, choose a design that has an interesting fabric or shape. A woven design with separate back and seat on a rich dark wood frame is certainly striking enough, but when paired with similar materials for the rug, side table and even the overhead light shade, it becomes part of a group of objects that enhance and complement each other. What is an accent chair? An accent chair is essentially an armchair or occasional chair that sits additionally to the sofa in a living room or family room. Whether a single statement chair or a pair, accent chairs are there to provide extra seating. ‘A really good armchair that will last for years still needs to have a solid timber frame’ says Charlie Marshall, founder of Loaf. ‘Of course, there are all sorts of widgets and rubbers out there (particularly on some of the high-end Italian models), which allow things like armchair arms to flex and bend, but I think the main principles of what makes a human being comfortable remain the same.’ ‘The one very significant thing I would say has changed as a result of our new living habits is the composition of the fabrics people now want,’ Charlie continues. ‘Ten years ago, it was all about being natural. Now, while fabrics still need to look and feel gorgeous, they also need to be as spill-proof as possible. Dinners in front of the TV can be a wonderful thing in moderation (family meals at the kitchen table are important, too!), so people increasingly want wipeable fabrics that are good for mucky-pups both young and old alike. There are now a range of really lovely polyesters out there that are very popular – we personally have these in our home and think they're ace.’ Where do you put an accent chair in the living room? ‘If you are lucky enough to have space for two sofas in your living room then swapping out the second sofa for two accent chairs will create a feeling of additional space’ suggests Ideal Home’s Nicky Phillips. ‘This is due to seeing more floor and space around them, thus making the room feel more airy.’ ‘In a space that has enough room for some additional seating but not enough room for an additional sofa, then choosing a single accent chair is perfect – for example in a bay window or in front of a bi-fold door. Don’t be tempted to push accent chairs into the corner of a living room, position them around a coffee table or close to a fireplace.’ Can you have just one accent chair? ‘Yes, although symmetry in a living room looks smart and stylish, a lot of rooms just wouldn’t have the space for two’ says Nicky. ‘The addition of an accent chair is a great way to bring in a pop of colour or an alternative texture to a scheme. If you are using a single accent chair between two facing sofas then keep the chair at a right angle, but if you have an accent chair adjacent to a single sofa then angle it slightly, either towards the sofa, fireplace or TV!’. The post Living room accent chair ideas – to enhance seating arrangements appeared first on Ideal Home.

Kitchen island ideas – create a focal point for cooking and socialising Posted: 12 Jan 2022 11:22 PM PST Image credit: Future PLC/ Veronica Rodrigues Smart kitchen island ideas have become an essential feature for modern kitchen designs – not surprising given the useable value it adds to a kitchen layout. ‘When designing a kitchen, we’d always consider breaking up the area with an island,’ says Alex Main, Director at The Main Company. ‘It works as both a cooking and entertaining space, and we’d change the work surface materials to suit each area specifically.’ The first thing to think about when considering kitchen island design ideas is the main purpose of incorporating one into your space. Are you looking for extra prep space, or to form a boundary between the cooking zone and the living/dining area? Almost all kitchen ideas these days incorporate seating – an even the smallest island can usually accommodate an overhang of worktop and a set of bar stools. Alternatively, you could pick a long kitchen island with integrated low-level, table-style seating at one end. Kitchen island ideas Functions aside, the change of pace offered by a kitchen island often encourages a variation in material. You can afford to be braver here with a bolder finish or colour, or perhaps a more expensive material that would be prohibitive across an entire room. For a show-stopping centrepiece, look to luxury materials, from deeply veined marble and mottled granites to exotic timber veneers and gleaming mirrored glass or burnished metal. 1. Choose continuous surfaces for a sleek look Image credit: Howdens Let a luxurious work surface take centre stage, with a continuous countertop that covers the top and sides of an island. Called a 'waterfall' worktop as it flows to the floor, much like a waterfall, it makes a luxe way of finishing off an island and will protect the sides of cabinets from damage too. 'To introduce a high-end feel to your space, add a waterfall design to your kitchen island. This creates a continuous look, as the counter pattern extends down the side of the unit for a flowing effect,' says Tori Summers, Director of Design, Product & Innovation, Howdens. 'This idea works best with square-edged work surfaces, which have clean lines that ensure all joins meet neatly for a clean and professional finish.' 2. Include ample space for seating Image credit: Future PLC/Robert Sanderson Lack of leg room can be an issue with kitchen island seating and breakfast bar ideas, so rather than relying on an overhang area at one end, create a dedicated niche where you can slot in a row of bar stools. Allow at least 60-70cm of space, per person, along an island so there is plenty of space for knees and enough elbow room for guests to sit comfortably. This could need adjustment depending on the style of bar stools you choose, such as bulky or thickly upholstered bar stools, while swivel stools will need extra space too. 3. Zone an open-plan space with a longline island Image credit: Future PLC/Darren Chung Open-plan living layouts offer ample space for everything but without some division they can feel overly large and vacuous. Break up the space by using furniture to divide one large living area into smaller, more manageable zones. A longline island creates a natural divide between kitchen and dining/living spaces. With cooking and prep surfaces on one side of the island, consider kitting out the reverse side with practical open shelving. Filled with books and display pieces, it makes a more decorative feature facing outwards as you enter the area. 4. Mix materials to create a multifunctional island Image credit: Future PLC/Brent Darby Although marble worktops throughout look luxurious, marble isn't always terribly practical. Marble is porous, so worktops are susceptible to staining and pitting from dark or acidic liquids, as well as scratches and nicks from sharp knives. Make a marble topped island more practical by incorporating a wooden butcher's block into the design. A multi-layered island creates visual interest and raising the block just above the worktop keeps everything contained. 5. Extend an island to incorporate a dining table Image credit: Magnet 'Adding a kitchen island doesn't just create additional counter space and storage, but immediately creates a great dining area for friends and family,' says Lizzie Beesley, Head of Design at Magnet. 'Kitchen islands with seating options have become an ever-increasing trend, with many different styles to choose from.' 'Smaller kitchens can incorporate seating into their island design, perhaps with a worktop overhang and bar stools. Other options include long islands with integrated low level, table seating at one end which makes a comfortable set up for family meals and entertaining.' 6. Squeeze in a moveable island if space is tight Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole If you don't have the luxury of a large and spacious kitchen, it doesn't mean you have to forsake a kitchen island if prep surfaces are lacking. A portable kitchen island idea will give an extra work surface and seating space, plus the added benefit that it can be easily moved to a different position if needed. A fixed island will often require plumbing and electrics so causes more upheaval, while a portable island is freestanding and moveable, so less limiting in terms of layout. Opt for one with a combination of storage plus stowing space for stools to maximise its footprint. 7. Refresh a tired kitchen with a splash of colour Image credit: Future PLC/Douglas Gibb A central island is the optimum place for adding a pop of colour to a neutral kitchen or dated decor. Painting the island a cheery, contrast shade allows a quick and easy refresh that can work wonders on a tired kitchen, without committing to a full room redo. In practical spaces like kitchens, always go for a hardwearing, water-resistant paint finish that can handle regular wipe-downs of splashes and splatters. To save prep time if re-painting a wooden island, opt for purpose-made Cupboard paint – try Rust-oleum or Ronseal – it’s easy to apply to furniture and won’t need primer or top coat. 8. Pick a practical stainless steel worktop Image credit: Future PLC/Rachael Smith Choosing the best countertop for your kitchen island will depend on what you're going to be using it for. An extra work surface for prepping food will need to be hardwearing and easy-clean. If you want to incorporate a sink or hob, you'll need a sleek integratable surface. Or if it's more of a bar area where you'll be socialising, think more in terms of looks and luxury. Stainless steel counters are a practical option for kitchen prep spaces. Not only do they look the part, stainless steel is hygienic and easy-clean, as well as being heat and corrosive-resistant. Stainless steel is often the worktop of choice in professional kitchens and while it can scratch and dent, this all adds to its character and charm. 9. Plan a practical layout that flows Image credit: IKEA In an open-plan kitchen-diner, position the island unit so that it steers traffic away from kitchen hotspots, such as the hob and oven, and towards seating areas instead. Go for a storage-heavy design with plenty of drawers or cubbies as cluttered surfaces will ruin the look of a sleek, open-plan space. Also consider how kitchen island lighting ideas plays a key role in creating a cohesive scheme. A triple row of pendants positioned above an island creates a focal point and helps to zone the space further. Contrast flooring gives the area a change of pace too, with an island as a neat dividing mechanism. 10. Incorporate extra storage at one end Image credit: Mereway Maximise every inch of a kitchen island with well thought-out storage ideas. Instead of standard end panels, put this wasted space to better use by incorporating a set of slimline shelves. At less than 10cm deep, a narrow gap like this works perfectly as a spice rack or a spot for stashing condiments and oils. Alternatively, just add a couple of steel rungs and the slimline space is ideal for displaying cookery books, with covers facing outwards so they’re easier to identify. 11. Boost light levels with glossy surfaces and glass doors Image credit: Higham In large kitchens with lots of cabinetry, pale worktops with light-reflective finishes can help break up solid blocks of colour and add visual interest to a space. For a central kitchen island with outward-facing cabinets, opt for glass door fronts in place of a solid bank of doors. Glass reflects light too, bouncing it across a room to further enhance the feeling of spaciousness. 12. Slot in a slimline island Image credit: Victoria Plum Even if you don't have stacks of floor space to play with, a kitchen island needn't be out of the question. Scale down its footprint by opting for an extra-narrow design made up of shallow depth kitchen cupboards. Adding a small overhang on one side will give room for a row of high stools to sit at. Keep to a calm, subdued colour palette with glossy light-reflective work surfaces. And choose pale-coloured flooring with a large-scale pattern to aid the feeling of spaciousness. 13. Drop in a low dining table Image credit: Harvey Jones Design a kitchen island that feels inviting for dining by dropping a lower height worktop, meaning you can use standard dining chair rather than high bar stools. It’s great idea for family kitchens, where you might not want little ones clambering precariously onto bar stools. Use the same colour cabinetry for the dining portion of the kitchen island but drop the height by just enough to make it useable as a dining table. Using an a contrasting worktop to the remainder of the island helps to make its purpose standout even further. 14. Incorporate stylish storage Image credit: Future PLC Look to use one side of a large island as kitchen storage idea, with enough concealed drawers to hide the majority for kitchen accessories. Then leave a sideboard-style surface to stack cookbooks and display colourful chinaware. This is an especially effective open-plan kitchen idea, where you are directly looking at one side of the kitchen island. The broken design helps to make the block kitchen unit feel less imposing on the rest of the space. 15. Use wood as a worktop Image credit: Harvey Jones This thoughtfully designed kitchen island offers a dining table and island hybrid. More than a breakfast bar, this design extends the wooden worktop down onto a fully-fitted dining table. The wooden worktop is ideal for use on an island where the purpose is primarily entertaining thanks to the softer qualities. 'A wooden worktop is a soft material which can become scratched or scorched during wood preparation. Confine the use of wood to soft-use areas such as breakfast bars for eating or  entertaining’ advises Melissa Klink at Harvey Jones. ‘Use a harder surface which is easy to clean, such as  granite or quartz composite, for food prep areas.' 16. Use each half of the island differently Image credit: Future PLC/ Polly Eltes Where you have the space, as is the case in this open-plan kitchen extension idea, use a kitchen island to bridge the gap between functional kitchen space and social dining elements. Do this by ‘dividing’ the island in half in terms of usage, with purposeful kitchen elements such as integrated fridges and induction hobs one side and a breakfast bar with stools on the other. A multifunctional design helps to unify the different uses within the space, while still clearly zoning each purpose. 17. Get the scale right image credit: Harvey Jones Choosing the right size to scale is key when it comes to planning a kitchen island, because while you want it to be the focal point you don’t want it to be overbearing on the layout as a whole. So how much space should you have between a counter and island? Matt Baker, kitchen designer at Harvey Jones offers his advice, ‘The most important element has to be the walkways around the island. As a rule of thumb they need to be 1000mm wide in order to be safe and practical in a kitchen.’ ‘Many seem to think the bigger the better. Wide islands are sure to make an impact, however they’re not the most practical solution because you have to be able to reach the middle when cooking. Try to keep it no deeper than 1400mm front to back.’ 18. Position appliances away from your entertaining space Image credit: Future PLC If you’re putting an island into an open-plan kitchen you’re most likely looking to create an engaging and inviting space for entertaining. Kitchen appliance layout ideas are therefore important. It might not make sense to position cooking appliances on the outside facing walls of the space, as you’d have your back to guests for the majority of the time while you cook. Incorporating the oven and hob into the island facing towards to the social space will help create a more engaging environment while hosting. 19. Make sure your island is well lit Image credit: Future PLC As far as kitchen lighting ideas go, the island is one of the most important focal points – some would say the star of the show. While you want the entire kitchen to be lit for your needs it’s imperative to make sure the island fits perfectly within the lighting plan. As it often serves as the main food prep station and the hub of entertaining it needs to be well-lit, most likely by multiple lighting options. Whether that’s overhead spotlights or lanterns, which you can dim for intimacy or brighten for practical task lighting, ensure the main focus for good lighting is the centre of the island. 20. Contrast with your wall cabinets Image credit: Future PLC/ Joanna Henderson Kitchen colour schemes are another thing to think about. Lots of people like to use their island to inject a warming splash of on-trend colour to uplift an otherwise neutral colour scheme. If you like this idea, but are worried you may tire of your choice, ensure your cabinet is lade of wood or a high-quality wood veneer that can be easily repainted down the lime. 21. Balance the layout Image credit: Martin Moore Kitchens Whether large or small, the key to getting a kitchen island scheme right is balance. This sophisticated grey kitchen idea demonstrates how to do the job perfectly, with a harmonious balance of grey cabinetry throughout with white walls and worktops to soften the look. There’s a symmetry with the seating along the island breakfast bar which adds further balance, making one end entirely dedicated to entertaining. 22. Blend in a breakfast bar Image credit: Future PLC Multifunctional is all-important when it comes to kitchen design, to make the space as efficient as possible – large or small. An ideal multifunctional kitchen island is one that functions as a food prep space with a sink, a storage space and a social space with a breakfast bar. 23. Get the height right Image credit: Optiplan Kitchens ‘As the heart of the home, plenty more goes on in a kitchen space than simply cooking and eating’ explains Andy Briggs, interior designer for Optiplan Kitchens. ‘A kitchen island enables you to perhaps work or have children close by whilst preparing meals. It also offers a popular “standing workspace” for those working from home or doing hobbies – this is meant to be better for your posture than continuously sitting.’ ‘The height of an island is also ideal for families with small children, as a high chair can be pulled up and little ones can enjoy meal times at the same level as their family.’ 24. Curve the edges for better flow Image credit: Future PLC/ Lizzie Orme If you’re trying to fit an island into a smaller kitchen, it’s a good idea to choose a design with rounded edges. This will inevitably cost more, but there will be no sharp corners to catch against as you and your family manoeuvre around the space. 25. Add an alternative worktop Image credit: Future PLC/ Brent Darby Create a hybrid of styles within your kitchen scheme by combining kitchen worktop ideas on your kitchen island. Use a different material to indicate a change of function for that portion of the kitchen island. In this stylish kitchen space a hearty wooden worktop is extended out – over the granite worktop covering the remainder of the island – to form a dedicated dining area. Simple placement with bar stools helps to enhance the signals for its dining function. 26. Inject a bold accent colour on the island Image credit: Magnet A kitchen island is the perfect place to welcome a brave colour choice in a kitchen colour scheme. While the colour is permanent it is not as daring as choosing a whole kitchen with coloured cabinets. You could always repaint the island at some point down the line, should you have a change of heart with the bold hue. 27. Power up your island Image credit: Future PLC/ Richard Gadsby It’s vital you include ample plug sockets on your island. They’re not only useful for powering small appliances like stand mixers and food processors, they’ll also be handy for charging phones and laptops – as working from home continues to be a way of life. The timber stools have bags of character, and work beautifully with the pale blue island, giving the overall scheme a subtle coastal feel. 28. And make smart choices when it comes to power supply image credit: Harvey Jones More than just ensuring the island is connected to the power supply – think about the right kind of power. Harvey Jones kitchen designer Matt Baker advises, ‘If you need power points in an island cabling will need to laid before screed is put down. Sockets can then be fitted before the worktops are installed.’ He goes on to add, ‘I would personally urge every customer to go with sockets that have USB slots in them these days, as most of our tech uses these to charge.’ 29. Raise the bar Image credit: Future PLC/ Rachel Smith Adding an elevated shelf to one side of the kitchen island transforms the space into a functional dining area. Lifting the bar to a higher level than the island helps to define it’s purpose as a dedicated dining space. Equally the higher height might suit as a working from home space, if standing is preferred. 30. Go with the flow in open-plan kitchens Image credit: Future PLC/ Veronica Rodriguez Open-plan living spaces often benefit from identifying dedicated spaces within the layout, for different purposes. Floating a kitchen island doesn’t interrupt the flow of the floor plan,  but it does clearly define the kitchen functionality within the space. Just as a dining table sets the scene for dining. 31. Choose compact for a small kitchen layout Image credit: Future PLC/ Colin Poole Even the tiniest of kitchen spaces can welcome an island, so your small kitchen ideas needn’t be compromised. Ensure the design is compact enough to fit but sizeable enough to fulfil its purpose. Just ensure you have enough area to accommodate space between any hot kitchen apparatus and guests enjoying the breakfast bar. 32. Balance a layout Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles Welcome an island into a kitchen to enhance the form and function of the space. The extra unit provides more work surface for food prep and dining when paired with bar stools. Continue a colour scheme in an all-white space by choosing the same design for the kitchen island as that of the main kitchen design. The splash of central colour in the room helps to cement the look further. 33. Compliment colour throughout Image credit: Future PLC/ Chris Snook Create a cohesive colour scheme throughout by using the same colour for every detail in a kitchen space. From the island to the wall cabinets, from lighting to the accessories, make it match to uniform a space. 34. Add in a shelf for cookery books Image credit: Future PLC/ Colin Poole The best place to store cookery books? In the kitchen of course! Adding a few kitchen shelving ideas into your island will ensure all your favourite cookbooks are easy to hand. This is an easy hack for adding personality and colour into a neutral kitchen. 35. Drop in a kitchen sink Image credit: Future PLC A large sink in a kitchen island might be a little controversial, but is a great solution if you’re struggling for space. In this kitchen, the space that the sink would have taken up against a wall worktop has been transformed into much needed storage leaving the sink in the easily accessible island. 36. Dazzle diners with gold Image credit: Future PLC/ Veronica Rodriguez Make a freestanding island stand out all the more with the addition of a luxe finish. A touch of gold on the underside helps to make the island take on a role of function and fabulous form. 37. Strike a balance with storage and seating Image credit: Future PLC/ James French Work with a smart design that provides optimum storage space for all your kitchen needs on one side, while providing a bar of seating along the other side. 38. Create multi-functional storage with seagrass baskets Image credit: Future PLC/ Colin Poole Deep shelves in an island can be tricky, however with the help of some seagrass baskets they can be transformed into picture-perfect storage. To recreate this glamorous vintage theme, alternate the shelves with storage baskets and your favourite vintage-style crockery. 39. Position an island opposite a window wall Image credit: Future PLC/ Alasdair Macintosh Floor-to-ceilings sliding windows in a kitchen extension look gorgeous but can cut down on the space available for storage. An easy solution is to introduce a slick island with space for drawers and cupboards just in front of the window. Not only does this double the work surface and storage, but you can also hide breakfast bar stools behind it to keep the space looking slick. 40. Install a fridge in your kitchen island Image credit: Future PLC A small undercounter fridge is a great addition in a large workstation. It can hold fresh food to be prepped on the island or be filled with drinks for guests to help themselves to, without disturbing the chef. An extra fridge in a central island is perfect for keeping fruit, vegetable and salads cool and close at hand for prepping. Lunch and breakfast time ingredients – jams, butter and cheeses – are best kept in this fridge for quick and easy meal preparation. 41. Go for a classic colour combo Image credit: Future PLC/ Richard Gadsby Choose a Shaker-style island in on-trend navy blue and create a country kitchen with a very modern twist. This design features a built-in sink, cupboard storage, a marble top, staging-style shelving and one side dedicated to breakfast bar seating. Combine with grey wall units and a range cooker for the perfect mix of classic and contemporary. 42. Make a statement with bright bar stools Image credit: Future PLC/ Richard Gadsby New cabinetry is a big investment. So it’s understandable that you might not want to be too experimental with colour. If that’s the case, why not introduce a brighter shade through accessories that are easier to switch out if you get bored – like these statement bar stools? For something less permanent, a vase of flowers will do the job! 43. Fashion bespoke bookends Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles Create your own book ends with a bespoke design. Either side of your seating, allow enough space to fashion shelving that can act as mini bookcases. The wooden stools in the same material as the bookcases helps to add warmth to the otherwise cool scheme. 44. Make it as multifunctional as possible Image credit: Future PLC/ Darren Chung Look closely at this classy, understated kitchen island and you’ll discover it serves a multitude of purposes – a place to wash, prep food, with a neat breakfast bar to eat at with tucked-under stools. There would be plenty of space to add a hob if you wanted, too.  45. Keep it tidy with drawers Image credit: Future PLC/ Brett Charles Echo the homely feel of a country kitchen with a pastel blue centrepiece island. In an otherwise neutral scheme, this island adds a subtle injection of colour and draws the eye to its charming display of drawers and white knobs. Fill them with everything you need to lay the table, but leave a few empty so that you have somewhere to hide clutter when unexpected visitors arrive. 46. Squeeze in a slimline island Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles You don’t need a vast kitchen to fit in an island, as this skinny design proves. It even doubles as a breakfast bar, courtesy of a simple overhanging work surface. Tongue and groove panelling integrates the piece with the rest of the Shaker-style scheme, while the light and bright colour scheme helps to make the room feel spacious. 47. Upcycle your own mini island Image credit: Future PLC/ Jamie Mason For an easy and affordable way to create a pretty and practical feature in a kitchen, upcycle a vintage table and use it as an island. Choose any paint colour you wish to transform your centrepiece – this sunny yellow is a particularly cheery choice – and add a stool in a contrasting colour to complete the look. 48. Go large Image credit: Future PLC/ Nicholas Yarsley If you’ve got the space, why be afraid to use it? At the heart of this spacious open-plan kitchen is an immense island with a glossy white worktop and dramatic dark grey Shaker-style cabinetry. This multifunctional unit has everything, including the kitchen sink! There’s infinite space to prep food, abundant storage and even an integrated dining area. If you have a generous kitchen that craves a show-stopping centre piece like this, think big, useful and above all, striking. 49. Upcycle reclaimed wood Image credit: Future PLC/ Matthew Williams Remember those railway sleepers everyone used to put in their gardens? Well now they’re creeping into kitchen design. The chunky proportions make them ideal for craggy, rugged shelving and their solidity works well for a breakfast bar too. Consider a second-hand kitchen to give a new lease of life to used kitchen units and worktops that are big on quality, low on costs. 50. Supersize an island to make a big impression Image credit: Future PLC/ Veronica Rodriguez If you have the space, fill it with a kitchen island. This produces a very modern kitchen design with an expansive countertop that serves as a casual eating spot as well as a practical worksurface for food prep. Emphasise its importance with a run of low-slung industrial-style pendants on high and leather-upholstered stools below. 51. Update an existing kitchen with a traditional butcher’s block Image credit: Future PLC/ Polly Eltes This simple way to add more prep space and storage into a U-shaped kitchen idea is also extremely elegant. A chunky end-grain surface will take a lot of culinary punishment and the open shelf at the bottom provides easy access to cookware. What’s more the design would work just as well with slab-style units. 52. Hide the clutter Image credit: Future PLC/ Holly Joliffe A taller, or ‘flying’ breakfast bar like this one serves two purposes. Firstly, its height is great for more casual eating and drinking. And second, if you do make a mess in the kitchen, it’s obscured from view of guests by the bar. Genius, no?! 53. Keep the design slimline Image credit: Future PLC/ Alistair Nicholls Incorporate a slimline kitchen island to mirror the surrounding work surfaces, in order for the island to feel like merely a detached counter. This idea is ideal for smaller kitchens to prevent surfaces from feeling imposing on the compact space. Use white worktops and materials to retain a light and airy feel. Add seating under one end of a slim kitchen island to save further space, allowing stools to be tucked away when not in use. 54. Make a statement with mosaics Image credit: Future PLC/ Dominic Blackmore Make the island shine bright with a generous helping of iridescent tiles. Not only will they add decoration, they provide an easy to clean surface, ideal for a kitchen. 55. Pick out an alternative finish Image credit: Future PLC/ Colin Poole A freestanding kitchen piece of furniture allows you not only the freedom to incorporate an accent colour, it also allows you to add a different material and surface finish. If your kitchen units are classic Shaker-style you could introduce a panelled island to add further rustic charm. Painting the wooden island in a shade of fresh mint green adds another design element of classic country style. 56. Disguise the design Image credit: Future PLC/ Katie Lee There’s no saying a kitchen island has to always be a block that stands out, as this example proves. This smart kitchen island feels more like a wooden dining table, where the worktop has been seamlessly continued over to form an extended dining area. This clever idea eradicates the need for a separate dining table in the kitchen, yet it  doesn’t feel like you’re sat at the kitchen worktop for fine dining. 57. Double the size for dedicated dining Image credit: Future PLC/ Robert Sanderson Go all out on a bespoke design to allow for ample dining space. There’s nothing worse than a kitchen island that  doesn’t cater to your needs. If the heart of your home is a space for entertaining, ensure the island design is tailored to accommodate this. 58. Make the most of space with oversized drawers Image credit: Future PLC/ Richard Gadsby Allow just enough room for a breakfast bar at one end, to tuck bar stools under – utilising the rest of the island as valuable kitchen storage. Choose oversized pull out drawers to store all your kitchen pans and crockery to keep everything central and within reach for any kitchen task. ask your kitchen design for ideas about in drawer separators and racks to make the storage work even harder. 59. Set tasks to one side Image credit: Future PLC/ Simon Whitmore Allow the use of your kitchen island to be a totally separate area from your everyday cooking area. Set it up as a Bake Off-style bench where you keep all your large kitchen appliances like stand mixers to one area. Use the storage space within the island to house all your baking tools, away from the everyday utensils draw. A great idea to avoid the ‘now, where did I put that balloon whisk attachment?’ 60. Think outside the box for the shape Image credit: Future PLC/ Darren Chung Make it your own with a total bespoke design. If you want to create a space that intrigues and breaks confirming kitchen design trends, go freestyle with your finished kitchen design. Working with your chosen kitchen designer, work up a creative shape that suits your style tastes and fulfils the needs of your kitchen. 61. Float an island when wall space is limited Image credit: Future PLC/ Tom Meadows Kitchen islands are the ideal solution when the space is limited on walls to utilise. A kitchen island can float in the middle of a space, meaning it doesn’t need to be anchored to a wall. It allows for storage and more all without interrupting the flow of the open-plan space. Another benefit of a kitchen island is the design will automatically enhance your kitchen decor, with no need to go on the hunt for a complementary table and chairs to fit into the space. 62. Put an extra sink in place Image credit: Future PLC/ Alistair Nicholls Putting in a extra, small sink is a great idea for a kitchen that loves to entertain. Consider this the ‘bar’ area, where the sink is used additional to the main sink. Or the hand washing station, to save garden dirt or germs from being anywhere near the sink you wash groceries in. This can also be a great idea for safety measure,  in kitchen that features a hot tap for instance, allowing the children to use the separate sink– safe in the knowledge they can’t accidentally use the wrong tap. 63. Take a stand with an imaginative design Image credit: Future PLC/ James French Tulip-style dining tables are a popular choice for retro interior design choices. To make your kitchen island fashionably unique and imaginative why not base your kitchen island design on the same style principles. Only instead of the Tulip base supporting a round table top, it will instead form the foundation for a quirky kitchen island. 64. Break up the layout with an accent colour Image credit: Future PLC/ David Parmiter Where the rest of the kitchen is safe in neutral shades the island is where you can afford to have fun with an accent colour. Especially if you have a design that can be painted with ease, should you change your mind on the chosen accent colour. Wood panelling is the ideal design choice, if repainting for future makeovers. Contrasting the worktop choice with the surrounding kitchen surfaces will help to signal the island as a standalone piece – one that is not made to match. 65. Create curves within the space Image credit: Future PLC/ Richard Gadsby Add interest to your kitchen space with a curved kitchen island design. Enhance the quirkiness further by mixing materials and finishes, to highlight the curvature. 66. Allow for a change of purpose Image credit: Future PLC/ Douglas Gibb Incorporating open elements to the kitchen island design will give freedom to change how the storage space is used. Whether you buy new appliances or new cook books, the way you choose to style the kitchen may evolve – so best to keep space free to suit. 67. Position with a practical path in mind Image credit: Future PLC/ Fiona Walker-Arnott Position a kitchen island thoughtfully, making the most of an outside space. Thinking how handy the extra space will become when the doors are thrown open, proving plentiful surface space to aid alfresco entertaining. Even during the colder months, when the doors stay closed, the freestanding piece can welcome a break from the wall of glass doors. What is the best size for a kitchen island? What is the best size for a kitchen island will depend on the size of the kitchen. But even the smallest of kitchens can allow for a kitchen island, it will just be more compact. Once your determine the size of floorspace free to allocate for a kitchen island you can begin to plan the size based on needs. When it comes to picking the size of your island, measure your floor to make sure it will fit. ‘When planning your kitchen be careful not to be over ambitious with freestanding elements,’ advises Ben Burbidge, managing director at Kitchen Makers. ‘Ensure you precisely measure your floor so that an island will fit comfortably within your space. ‘When placed in the centre it should leave enough floor for you to manoeuvre around and access the rest of the kitchen. The area under the islands worktop is also essential as it offers amply space for storage and kitchen essentials such as low fridges and deep drawers.’ If you require storage from the island design you will need to factor in the dimensions – because this will determine whether there’s enough space to allow legroom underneath, so the island can double up as a breakfast bar. What shape kitchen island should I choose? A shaped island unit can also help direct the flow of traffic away from busy hotspots. An island can be long and slim, running parallel to the work area; neat and round in a compact room; or big and broad, housing a sink and appliances. “Make the 'entertaining’ section slightly higher than the cooking and preparation area,’ says Alex Main, Director at The Main Company. ‘And bear in mind to keep a safe distance from any hobs or hot taps when designing your kitchen.’ ‘Create an l-shape seating area to ensure stools are not in one long line as this makes chatting to each other a neck-cricking exercise. Also remember to break the surface of the island up with cooking or washing up components to ensure it’s used to its full potential and to prevent it becoming a dumping ground!’ How do you make an inexpensive kitchen island? How do you make an inexpensive kitchen island if on a budget? A great budget kitchen idea for creating an island is to buy an inexpensive freestanding piece of furniture, such as a butchers block. IKEA is the ideal place to head, with the retailer offering a whole variety of affordable freestanding furniture pieces. This cheap option also gives you the freedom to move things around, as the pieces are moveable – most commonly designs feature castor wheels on one side for easy movement. Image credit: IKEA How do you style a kitchen island? How you style a kitchen island will be determined by the proposed use. If the island is focused on function it’s best to style with storage, from compact cupboards to open units filled with woven baskets. If the island is more about creating a dining area style the space with inviting elements, such as comfortable seating complete with cushions. Will you be adding a kitchen island to your cooking space using these kitchen island ideas? The post Kitchen island ideas – create a focal point for cooking and socialising appeared first on Ideal Home.

Painted kitchen ideas to add interest and impact to your space Posted: 12 Jan 2022 06:58 AM PST Adding paint to a kitchen is a practical, durable and fun way to finish off the space. It’s exciting to look outside the box of typical painted kitchen ideas and instead find new and interesting ways to add extra colour. One of the most appealing and varied finishes for kitchen cabinetry, paint lends itself to both the classic looks of the traditional kitchen and to crisply modern linear designs. Whatever your preference in terms of kitchen colour schemes, there’s a painted kitchen cabinet or furniture idea sure to zhuzh up your space. Even if you’re prone to stick to a neutral palette, a burst of colour with add warmth and personality. And since you spend a lot of time in a kitchen, it’s important to keep it both liveable and lovable. Paint is such a versatile addition to a kitchen. Available in matte, satin and gloss, there’s a finish for every style. Its soft finish makes it ideally suited to traditional cabinetry but painted units will also sit happily in a modern design. One of the most appealing and varied finishes for kitchen cabinetry, paint lends itself to both the classic looks of the traditional kitchen and to crisply modern linear designs. Painted kitchen ideas One of the advantages of painted kitchen cabinets and furniture is in its almost limitless choice of colours. This allows your personality to shine through, but also relatively easy to update if you fall for some new kitchen ideas you want to try. 1. Match your cabinetry to your upholstery Image credit: Future PLC/James French Stand alone cabinets are the perfect place to embrace painted kitchen ideas. There are a number of ways you can go with this, and a current trend is choosing a contrasting colour to the rest of your painted kitchen cabinets. Once you’ve selected the best paint for kitchen cabinets, create cohesion by using the same colour on any upholstery or seating by the rest of the cabinetry. This natural link will make the two areas feel at ease rather than as disparate sections. 2. Opt for a two tone effect Image credit: Future PLC/Lizzie Orme A lovely and on-trend way to add some new paint to your kitchen is to use two complementary colours from the same section of the colour wheel. Breakfast nooks and pantries are perfect for this. Paint them in the darker of the two shades so they become a feature in and of themselves. Another way to work two tone kitchen cabinets is by using two shades on upper and lower cabinetry. 3. Highlight unusual shapes Image credit: Future PLC/Joanna Henderson If your cabinetry or stand alone kitchen furniture boasts unusual shapes, then use paint to make a feature out of them. If you’re working with open shelving, paint the whole lot in a striking shade. If there’s a back to the piece, leave this in the same shade as the walls so the eye is fully drawn to the silhouette. 4. Paint your table legs Image credit: Future PLC A fun and quirky way to add colour to your painted kitchen ideas is by upgrading your table legs. Choose a joyful colour you like to use in accessories and painted the legs and supports of your table. An easy update, this is great to do when you want to add a pop of colour without committing to a full refresh. Equally, it’s a good way to see what it’s like to live with a certain colour before you take the plunge and paint your cabinets, like when you’re playing around with pink kitchen ideas. 5. Keep colour low Image credit: Future PLC/Katie Lee Painted kitchen cabinets are a common way to paint this room – and for good reason. Once you know how to paint kitchen cabinets, they’re easy to do yourself, and update when the kitchen needs a refresh. For a slightly less all-over look, only paint your lower cabinetry. Any upper cabinetry or shelving should be leave neutral, or in a paler shade. If you have an island, paint the legs and baseboard, but leave the top as is. This means the colour isn’t overwhelming, and can make your kitchen seem taller as your gaze isn’t being cut off by coloured upper cabinets. Instead white walls seem to go on much further. 6. Paint the interior of cabinets Image credit: Future PLC While we love painted kitchen cabinets, there’s more you can do than you might think. If you have glass-fronted or open shelving, you’re missing a trick by not looking inwards. Paint the internal nooks of shelves in a bright, contrasting colour to the rest of the cabinet. It’s also an ideal way of adding colour to a white kitchen, as will provide the perfect amount of added colour, as well as acting an an unexpected burst of fun. 7. Match your splashback Image credit: Habitat Take your painted kitchen cabinets up a notch by including your splashback in the scheme. This takes the colour further and higher to make more of on impact, without encroaching fully on the walls. Even more in this area than any other, make sure you chose a wipeable or washable paint. Otherwise your hard work will quickly be stained or mottled. 8. Add interest to open shelving Image credit: Future PLC/Katie Lee Open shelving in a kitchen is a great way to add a splash of serious colour. Paint the entirety of the piece all in one colour. The shelves, the backboard, the sides, and so on. This technique will create the perfect spot to curate a collection of your favourite pieces. They will pop against the coloured background and the pieces themselves will seem elevated. 9. Colour drench your space Image credit: Neptune Colour drenching is a paint trend which is going nowhere. The kitchen is certainly not exempt. To achieve this, all you need to do is paint everything – walls, cabinetry, doors – in the same colour. As a kitchen is a working space, keep your surfaces in a neutral so your eyesight isn’t impacted and you can keep prepping food safely. 10. Use paint to create a welcoming vibe Image credit: Future PLC/David Brittain Colour up kitchen shelves and cabinetry. Vibrant hues will add warmth and personality to a room, especially if your kitchen is part of a larger living space, and you intend to spend a lot of time there. Don’t be afraid to include daring accessories in a variety of soft colours and pattern for added wow factor. 11. Take a look at the new nautical Image credit: Future PLC/Simon Brown Heritage blue offers a regal tone here, and is also a warmer (yet still timeless) alternative to a grey, black or white kitchen. Navy blue commands attention, which is why it is best to let this shade shine without too much distraction elsewhere. 12. Paint your chairs in candy colours Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole Play with paint to create a totally unique scheme. Give your kitchen a shot of colour by painting your chairs in your favourite hues. You could even mix and match different tones for a fun and lively look. Keep colours fairly low key elsewhere in the room, with pale stone flooring and wooden cabinetry. 13. Add colour without completely changing your scheme Image credit: Future PLC/David Merewether Painting the pantry doors in a striking yellow will provide instant gratification on a gloomy day. Using white allows an interior to reveal itself and you can always add colour later on. Highlight the vibrancy of the yellow with accessories in a similar colourway. 14. Be inspired by trends Image credit: Future PLC Grey is still very much the neutral of the moment for painted kitchen ideas. It looks smart and crisp paired with white, but can still benefit from a little extra colour with accessories. In this grey kitchen, coloured cabinetry doors provide a point of interest. 15. Create impact by painting an island unit Image credit: Future PLC/Richard Gadsby This huge, light filled kitchen has been anchored by an impressive charcoal grey central island. The extra-large structure gives the classic Shaker-style kitchen cabinetry a defining contemporary edge with the use of defining colour. 16. Stand out with vibrant chairs Image credit: Future PLC/Richard Gadsby Add warmth to your kitchen decorating scheme with splashes of gem colour. Solid blocks of striking colour can emphasise the freestanding design of furniture and accessories. The bar stools here have been painted in a rich blue shade to add a vibrant punch of colour to the muted tones elsewhere. This break in the colour scheme helps to highlight the eating area as a distinct space. 17. Create a statement feature wall Image credit: Future PLC/David Still A large, light-filled cream kitchen often benefits from strong colour because it adds definition and interest and helps prevent the space looking bland. A wall of floor-to-ceiling cupboards creates a good source of storage and the teal doors introduce a solid pop of colour to the space. The cool whites of the ceiling, walls, floor and worktops are warmed by the inclusion of a natural-finish wood table and stools. 18. Paint in your perfect shade Image credit: Future PLC/David Parmiter If you have a favourite colour, don’t be afraid to use it all over your kitchen. Here, a pale grey shade works well across all the storage and housing units because it’s paired with neutral flooring and white walls to really open up the space. The warm wood table and coloured chairs add interest in the centre of the room. Whether you choose a bold all-over shades or just a few bright highlights for your painted kitchen, bringing colour into the kitchen will raise everyone’s spirits and create a welcoming space where you’ll want to spend  time and gather with family and friends. Should your kitchen cabinets match your walls? If you want a colour drench look, then of course, but otherwise they absolutely don’t have to. In fact, you can even mix and match colours on the cabinets themselves. ‘To add depth to any interior scheme, it's always a good idea to team shades from the same palette,’ says Ruth Lavender, design expert at Benchmarx Kitchens. ‘For those looking to be more daring with their design choices, introducing two-tone cabinets allows you to play with colour and make a standout feature. Two-tone cupboards have been growing in popularity over the past few years and offer the perfect solution for homeowners who desire a dark grey kitchen but don't want to commit to one colour.’ ‘Opting for a lighter shade or an alternative colour on wall-hung cupboards will keep your kitchen feeling bright, while a darker hue on base units will ground the design. Balance and consideration are very much key to bringing this look together, so talking to your kitchen designer will ensure you find the right colour options for your scheme, as well as suggesting options you may not have previously considered.’ Should cabinets be lighter or darker than walls? There’s no rule as to whether your painted kitchen cabinets should be lighter or darker than the walls. it’s all a matter of preference and what works best in your space. If you opt for darker cabinets, you’ll achieve a more dramatic, statement look. Lighter than the walls and you’ll get a more subtle, delicate finish. P lay around with test pots and painted pieces of A4 paper and see which option works best in your space. As always, make sure to test colours in the morning, afternoon, evening and under both natural and artificial light sources. Only then will you get a true indication of how your painted kitchen ideas work in reality. The post Painted kitchen ideas to add interest and impact to your space appeared first on Ideal Home.

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