Category Archives: Aspley Styleboard

Three winter colour palettes you’ll love

Selecting the right living room colour scheme for your home is going to set the tone for the ambience of your space, making this one of the most crucial design decisions. From wall paint to furniture fabrics, the colours you choose impact how you feel in your space.

How to choose a living room colour scheme

Warm hues create a sense of confidence, making them perfect for entertaining areas like dining rooms, while cooler tones promote relaxation, ideal for bedrooms and bathrooms. This phenomenon is known as colour psychology, and we’ve got all the details you need to know right here.

In this guide, we showcase three winter living room colour schemes, each evoking a range of emotions, from snug and welcoming to refreshing and invigorating. Keep reading to find your perfect match!

Bright and vibrant colours

When the winter blues start to set in, it’s only natural to crave the warmth of summer. So why not add vibrant colours that radiate energy and vitality into your home? With bright hues reminiscent of summer, you can create a space that feels lively without sacrificing comfort. Opt for thick textures like wool and faux fur to add layers of cosiness and pile up the cushions and throws.

DecoRug Lomond Striped Rug $499, Eureka Furniture Vieste Left Hand Chaise Sofa $7,299, Freedom Cosh Table Lamp $69.95, Freedom Urban Road Campari Spritz Canvas $599, Pillow Talk Muse Charlie Check Vase $24.95, Pillow Talk Muse Trio Decorative Vase $39.95, Pillow Talk Sundays by Pillow Talk Airlie Outdoor Coffee Table $199.95, Sheridan Outlet Naut Throw $349.99.

Natural and warm colours

For those who lean towards a classic winter aesthetic, an earthy colour palette is for you. Rustic browns, soothing greens, and creamy neutrals evoke a sense of comfort and nostalgia that’s hard to resist. Be sure to embrace traditional winter patterns like tartan and flannel to add a timeless charm to your space. With this palette, you’ll create a space that feels like the warm hug of home.

Eureka Furniture Grange Coffee Table $999, Freedom Aero Fabric Sofa $2,299, Freedom Coast To Coast Home Taylorp Floor Lamp $389, Pillow Talk Habitat Aurora Abstract Wall Art $149.95, Pillow Talk Habitat Axel Medium Checkered Floor Rug $299.95, Plush Alder Armchair POA, Provincial Home Living Nomad Footed Bowl $139.95, Provincial Home Living Talia Basket $69.95.

Faded and muted colours

Faded and muted tones offer a subtle yet sophisticated option for winter interiors, particularly if your home leans towards a more minimalist aesthetic. Soft pinks, sage greens, and muted greys serve as winter’s interpretation of pastel hues. These gentle shades evoke a sense of freshness, perfectly complementing the crispness of the winter season.

Freedom Wonboyn Ceiling Pendant $399, Nick Scali Nora 3.5 Seat Sofa POA, Nick Scali Papilla Coffee Table $1,899, Pillow Talk Habitat Washed Gradient Framed Canvas Wall Art $249.95, Pillow Talk Knute Sculpture $16.95, Provincial Home Living Parisi Bud Vase $89.95, Provincial Home Living Yashi Cushion $74.95.

Shop your favourite furniture and decor at Aspley Homemaker City

Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant energy of bright colours or the timeless feel of earthy tones, there’s a winter colour scheme to suit every style and mood. So go ahead, experiment with different hues and textures, and transform your home into a cosy retreat with products from Aspley Homemaker City.

For more home inspiration, join the Homemaker Collective to stay in the loop.

Winter table decor for a cosy Sunday roast

As the chill of winter settles in and we retreat inside, it creates the perfect opportunity to gather your family or friends to enjoy a cosy Sunday roast. Picture this, the living room is filled with lively conversation and the table is set and waiting while the aromas of a home-cooked roast waft from the kitchen. Sounds enticing right?

With a few simple tips and tricks, you can enjoy all the deliciousness of this beloved tradition with minimal stress and effort. We’ll guide you through setting a winter table, preparing hearty recipes and creating a sense of occasion for the whole family to enjoy. Everything you need awaits at Aspley Homemaker City.

Setting a warm winter table with decor

There’s something to be said for setting a winter table. While summer is all about bright colour palettes and the outdoors, a winter table is defined by a warm, moody atmosphere. The best way to achieve this is to play with colours and shadows.

Provincial Home Living Hayman Napkin $9.95, Provincial Home Living Tilly Ribbon $14.95, Freedom NINA Candlestick Holder $14.95, Freedom SOHO Cutlery Set, House Alex Liddy Aquis Fine Bone China Gravy Boat & Saucer $24.99, House Alex Liddy Harley Lasagne Dish 32cm $29.99, Bed Bath N’ Table Carlisle Placemat – Natural $7.95, Pillow Talk Ribbed Taper Candle $14.95, Freedom Haven Dinner Set $159.

First up, you’ll want to choose your colour palette, think deep blues, rich burgundies or forest greens. Don’t be afraid to mix and match! From there, the key to a balanced tablescape is layering. Start with placemats as the foundation, then build upwards with dinnerware, silverware, glassware, and napery. This strategic layering adds depth and visual interest to the setting. Finally, tie it all together by adding a centrepiece. This could be a vase with seasonal flowers or a collection of candles to add an extra element of warmth and height.

With these simple steps and your own personal touch, you’ll create a winter table setting that will wow your guests and turn any meal into a special occasion. Now that the table’s set, it’s time to plan the menu!

Preparing hearty recipes

We can all relate to the stress of hosting, especially when it comes to balancing cooking duties with entertaining guests. That’s where the beauty of a Sunday roast lies. By minimising the time spent in the kitchen, you can focus on enjoying the company of your loved ones without compromising on flavour.

Start by choosing a quality cut of meat and season generously with your favourite herbs and spices. While that’s in the oven, cut up your vegetables like carrots, onion and potatoes and place in the oven alongside the meat. While they’re cooking you can mingle with your guests, and before you know it, it will be time to serve up! Of course, no hearty meal is complete without a sweet treat to round off the evening. Indulge in the comforting flavours of the season with decadent desserts like a warm fruit crumble or a rich pudding. The best part? These desserts can be prepared ahead of time and left to cook while you enjoy your roast.

Create a sense of occasion

Transforming an ordinary dinner into a memorable occasion is easier than you think, and it’s all in the small details that make the difference.

Add a touch of personalisation to your table with handwritten place cards, or sprigs of greenery tied with ribbon to each place setting. Not only does this thoughtful gesture add a touch of practicality to the table setting, but it also makes each guest feel appreciated. Another effortless but effective way of creating a sense of occasion is by structuring the meal itself. This might mean pre-dinner drinks and nibbles, setting the stage for lively conversation, followed by the main course – a hearty roast and finished off with a dessert to savour the conclusion of the evening.

By paying attention to these small yet significant details, you’ll create a sense of occasion, setting your Sunday roast apart from every other dinner. So go ahead, embrace the art of hosting, and watch as your guests’ faces light up when they see what awaits them.

Now all that’s left to do is embrace the cosiness of the indoors with a warm Sunday roast! Don’t forget to experiment with a palette of rich, seasonal colours and textures to complement the cosy atmosphere of your dining space. For more home inspiration, join the Homemaker Collective to stay in the loop.

Winter Living Room Inspiration From Freedom Aspley

With the changing of the seasons comes the perfect time to switch up your soft furnishings and décor items in your home. We recommend heading into Freedom Aspley to check out their latest cushions, throw blankets and cosy items in the latest colours and trends to suit any interior design style. As the days get cooler it is important to rotate your soft furnishing items in the bedroom and living room to a thicker and warmer fabric to ensure we stay warm throughout winter. If you are feeling uninspired and an entire living room redesign is in order, Freedom Aspley have you covered for this too with the latest styles and finishes to suit your needs. Read on to find out our favourite ways to update your home this Winter and our top recommendations you can implement today.

Soft Furnishings

One of the easiest and quickest ways to update your home this winter is to switch out your cushions and throw blankets to create a more winter themed living room. When styling your living room for the cooler months we recommend opting for softer and chunkier textures in your soft furnishings. Textures such as faux fur, chunky knitted wool and beautiful thick cottons will give you a luxurious and cosy feel within your space. We love the Snowy Throw Blanket from Freedom Aspley in the smoked wood colour that is so on trend this season. Colours such as rich browns, burnt orange, soft beige and deep olives are huge this winter, so be sure to incorporate these when updating your soft furnishings.

Stylish Accent Furniture

When undertaking a living room redecoration or redesign it is important to think about the smaller accent furniture that finishes off the space. Often, we focus on the sofa and occasional chairs and leave the coffee tables and side tables as an afterthought. Freedom Aspley is the perfect place to visit when searching for living room inspiration as the store is laid out with settings and combinations that help you envision the pieces working together in your own home. This season we are seeing natural stone coffee tables and side tables growing in popularity for their wow factor and textural design. The Porteno Coffee Table is one of our favourite pieces as it is a natural travertine paired with a rich teak wood in a round shape, which makes it perfectly on trend this Winter season.

Decorating and Styling

The living room is the perfect space in the home to test your styling skills and use a variety of home décor pieces to create a look that perfectly reflects you and your taste. As the living room has a number of different surfaces, we recommend taking the opportunity to add home décor pieces such as books, vases, trays and candles to up-level the space. For the coffee table we love placing a beautiful tray with a vase, coasters and candle inside and a stack of thick coffee table books to the side for a styled look. Entertainment unit styling can be kept simple by placing a beautiful vase with faux flowers on one end and sentimental framed photo on the other. We love heading into Freedom Aspley to see what’s new in home décor and styling as they regularly release new and on-trend pieces.

The Finishing Touches

Lastly, when decorating your living room for winter it is important not to forget about lighting and artwork. Both aspects help to set the mood for the space and create a signature aesthetic and vibe upon entering the room. We suggest adding a tall floor lamp to the corner of the room or above an occasional chair to create a beautiful moment and focal point within the space. Add large artwork to blank walls within the living room in a style and colour palette that sets the tone for the space and brings your personality to the room.

Shop Your Dream Winter Living Room Pieces at Freedom Aspley

Create the cosy and comfortable living room you’ve been dreaming of this Winter by heading into Freedom Aspley for all the inspiration you need. Be sure to check out their living room merchandising and take note of the beautifully styled homewares and cosy soft furnishing combinations you can replicate in your own home.

Living in Luxury: Your Mother’s Day Gift Guide

Not sure what to get the woman who has it all this Mother’s Day? Here at Aspley Homemaker City, we’ve made gift-giving easy by curating a collection for our luxurious Mother’s Day Gift Guide so you can treat the one you love. Below, find lavish gifts for every mum from delightful décor to soothing self-care items and entertaining essentials. All you have to do is select the items you know your mum will adore and head in centre to purchase.

For the interior design mum

If your mum has an eye for design and wants her home to be a sanctuary full of eye-catching wall art and decorative pieces, then when it comes to Mother’s Day gift ideas, you can’t go past home décor from Aspley Homemaker City. First up, you’ll need a fresh and exciting piece of art to add a lovely pop of colour to any space. Then head to Bed Bath N’ Table to shop their selection of incredible throws and cushions. Last up, a lamp from Freedom will help your mum wind down after a long day by creating the perfect mood lighting.

For the homebody mum

Self-care doesn’t just mean maintaining a beauty routine. Sometimes, self-care simply means wrapping yourself up in a cosy robe, lighting a candle or two, and relaxing on the couch (or in bed) with a good book or binge-worthy show. If this sounds like heaven to your mum, then why not upgrade her self-care routine with a plush robe from Sheridan Outlet, and slippers from Pillow Talk? Pillow Talk also has a selection of home fragrances and candles that’ll make your mum’s home smell amazing. The homebody mum will also love a mug from House to use when curling up to enjoy a cuppa.

Bed Bath N’ Table Morgan & Finch Freya Ceramic Vase $34.95, Bed Bath N’ Table Morgan & Finch Malmo Fur Throw $149.95, DecoRug Karus Designer Rug from $1,599, Freedom Dome Table Lamp $299, Freedom Urban Road Family Gathering Canvas $149, House Alex Liddy Acacia Square Serving Board $119.99, House MyHouse Flora Mug Set $34.99, Howards Storage World Stackers Cable Organiser Bag $49.95, Howards Storage World Yamazaki Tower 4 Tier Jewellery Box $29.95, Pillow Talk Circa 350g Candle $44.95, Pillow Talk Habitat Lucy Cross Strap Home Slipper $19.95, Pillow Talk Muse Mila Ribbed Cocktail Coupe Crystal Glass Set Of 4 $59.95, Provincial Home Living Lonie Butter Pat Large $22.95, Sheridan Outlet Sheridan Austyn Bath Robe $169.99.

For the entertaining mum

If your mum’s a bit of a social butterfly and you’re searching for Mother’s Day gifts she can share with her friends, then we recommend gifting her some sturdy glassware, platters, plates, or dinnerware she can use while entertaining guests. Provincial Home Living and House’s vast collection of servingware will ensure every spread looks like a restaurant-ready masterpiece, while glassware and table décor from Pillow Talk will make every table feel grand.

For the organised mum

Everyone loves an organised and functional space, especially if what you’re using to store your belongings is just as aesthetically pleasing as your furniture and décor. Howards Storage World has so many wonderful storage solutions that can help organise jewellery, cables, clothing and more. Their cable organiser bag can help hide pesky cords, and their four-tier jewellery box will be able to store all of Mum’s jewellery effectively. Mum’s space will look so good that she’ll never want to leave the house!

It can be difficult to find the perfect Mother’s Day gifts each year but with our curated list of luxurious home décor, self-care items, entertaining pieces, and organisational saviours, you’re guaranteed to bring a smile to her face. Happy Mother’s Day!

Looking for more home inspiration? Join the Homemaker Collective to stay in the loop.

Baby Shower Gift Ideas For Mum From Baby Bunting Aspley

If you have a special someone in your life that is expecting a bundle of joy to enter the world soon, then you need to head into Baby Bunting Aspley for the perfect gift. Searching for the right gift can seem overwhelming at first with so many categories and options to give the Mumma-to-be, but fear not as we are here to help you find the perfect present. Today we are sharing with you our top recommendations to choose from when it comes to baby shower gifts and help you narrow down which category to choose. We’ve got you covered from the practical gift ideas, suggestions to spoil the new mum and cute décor and toy ideas that will have them smiling from ear to ear. So, read on for inspiration, then head into Baby Bunting Aspley to start your shopping journey this weekend.

Gifts For The New Mum

When we think of baby shower gifts, we often think of what cute outfit we can get the new arrival or what the latest toy innovation is. But opting for a gift that is specifically for the mother to be during this beautiful time will be appreciated endlessly. We love the My Brest Friend Deluxe Feeding Pillow in Soft Rose that supports posture, is adjustable, has a pocket for any essentials and gives Mum the support she needs at feeding time. We also love the range of maternity and postpartum underwear at Baby Bunting Aspley that are comfortable, practical, supportive and come in a classic colour range. Whilst in store, check out the entire maternity range to find the perfect gift for Mum for her baby shower.

Practical Gifts

Practical gifts always go down a treat not only at the baby shower, but long into the pregnancy and newborn phase. Gifting a mum-to-be something practical that you know from experience will make such a difference, is the most thoughtful gift of all. We love the baby shusher that is great for soothing any baby and will be a lifesaver when it comes to nap time and getting the baby to settle. You could also opt for more practical gift ideas such as a car accessory kit for sun protection whilst out on the road, a bath support for the baby to make bath time a breeze or a nappy disposal unit in the perfect colour to suit their nursery décor.

Baby Toys

Toys are always a winner when it comes to baby shower gifts as they can either be practical for learning, fun and entertaining or become sentimental items for the child long term. Baby Bunting Aspley has a huge range of adorable rattles in every colour, style or animal theme you can think of. They also have a great range of interactive toys that will keep the baby’s mind stimulated such as baby’s 1st block sets, teething toys, stacking ring towers or sensory books. If you get stuck with choosing the perfect baby shower gift you can’t go past an adorable soft plush toy that can be snuggled for years on end.

Nursery Décor

Our last category of baby shower gift ideas is selecting a beautiful décor piece you know will work perfectly in their nursery. Baby Bunting Aspley has a great range of playmats and rugs that are both practical and beautiful and come in a range of styles to suit any nursery design. We love the 4Baby Nursery Basket Set in White that is a gorgeous set of wicker baskets that perfectly fit baby wipes, nappies, bibs and creams for convenience at change time. Wall decals and art prints are also a beautiful baby shower gift and they come in cute themes from Australian animals to floral motifs to whimsical stars; there is a style to suit any nursery.

Now that you have all the inspiration you need to find the perfect baby shower gift for the mum-to-be in your life you can shop with confidence. Head in store to Baby Bunting Aspley and speak to the friendly staff to ensure you pick a present that will be loved and adored by both the baby and Mum for years to come.

Twilight entertaining: how to revamp your outdoor area for autumn

It’s no secret Aussies love the great outdoors. Whether it’s soaking up the fresh air or lounging around under the sun, there’s a special kind of joy that comes with outdoor living. Luckily, we’re blessed with fantastic weather for most of the year and as autumn settles in, now is the perfect time to update your outdoor entertaining area with a cosy touch. But how can you achieve this? Keep reading for a detailed guide on creating a warm and inviting twilight entertaining experience.

Bed Bath N’ Table Morgan & Finch Porter Throw $89.95, Eureka Furniture Solar Patio Arm Chair $1,499, Freedom Mali Round Outdoor Floor Rug $249, Outdoor Living Pol 8L Designer Fireplace from $2,395, Pillow Talk Muse Sahara Feather Cushion $59.95, Provincial Home Living Polly Lantern $69.95.

Step one: set the scene with lighting

Autumn evenings call for gentle illumination that adds warmth and ambience to your outdoor space. String lights, lanterns, and candles are perfect for achieving this type of cosy atmosphere. Consider hanging fairy lights across trees or pergolas, placing lanterns along pathways, and scattering candles on tables for an inviting glow your guests will love.

Step two: create comfortable seating areas

Invest in comfortable outdoor furniture that encourages comfort and relaxation. Opt for plush cushions, throws, and blankets in autumnal hues like burnt orange, deep red, and earthy browns to add warmth and style to your seating areas. Arrange chairs and sofas around the firepit to create a focal point that will entice guests to gather and linger.

Step three: cosy up with a firepit

A firepit is the quintessential autumn accessory! Choose a firepit that complements your outdoor décor and will enhance the overall aesthetic of your space. Whether you prefer a sleek modern design or a rustic, traditional look, a well-placed firepit will undoubtedly become the heart of your outdoor entertaining area.

Step four: serve up seasonal treats

No outdoor gathering is complete without delicious food and drinks to enjoy. Incorporate the flavours of autumn by serving hearty soups, roasted vegetables, and decadent desserts like apple pie. Pair these seasonal treats with mulled wine, spiced cider, or hot chocolate for a cosy experience that warms both the body and soul.

By following these tips and ideas, you can easily create a cosy outdoor entertaining area that embraces the beauty of an Australian autumn. With the addition of pieces from Aspley Homemaker City, you’ll have everything you need to enjoy memorable evenings under the open sky.

Looking for more home styling advice? Check out our latest seasonal trend report filled with décor inspiration, interior trends, tips and tricks, and so much more!

Harvest home: how to achieve an Australian farmhouse

As the air takes on a crisp edge and autumn hits, there’s something inviting about the idea of nestling into a space styled with a modern farmhouse decor aesthetic – it’s homely, cosy, and above all else, comfortable (all of which are exactly what one needs during the autumn months).

At its core, the farmhouse style is all about celebrating the beauty of imperfection. Reclaimed wood, industrial fixtures, and vintage-inspired décor come together to create a space that feels lived in and loved. While the term farmhouse might make you think of rolling fields and rustic barns, you don’t actually need to live anywhere near a farm to pull off the trend. With a few key elements, a keen eye for detail, and a trip to Aspley Homemaker City, you can transform any space into a harvest home.

Eureka Furniture Farmhouse Paddle $99, Eureka Furniture Ravenswood Bookcase $1,299, Freedom Ulla Table Lamp $349, Freedom Westport Fabric Armchair $1,499, Provincial Home Living Loch Barn Print $199.95, Provincial Home Living Campaign Image.

Defining farmhouse style

Before hitting the store it’s important to understand exactly what modern farmhouse style is so that you can easily identify pieces that will work for you.

Farmhouse style is refreshingly uncomplicated with a homespun charm that instantly puts you at ease. Décor pieces are to be chosen carefully, with a nod to history and antiques. Think barn-style furnishings such as wooden chairs combined with industrial-inspired fixtures like lights, trims, and handles. The beauty of farmhouse style lies in balance, so be sure not to go overboard and remember to keep a minimal approach.

Key elements for the Australian farmhouse

If you’re on the hunt for some key furniture pieces to suit this trend, be sure to select items for their durability and comfort. Practicality is key – comfortable seating and ample storage solutions will make everyday living a breeze. Whereas for décor, less is often more. We recommend keeping patterns simple and understated, opting for some open shelving that displays natural elements and textures like dried flowers, woven baskets, and pottery.

Colour palette: a nod to nature

The farmhouse decor style tends to favour natural hues inspired by the great outdoors. While white and black are always popular choices, there’s plenty of room to explore shades of brown, deep greens, and soft beige. You can showcase many of these colours through furniture made from natural materials like timber and stone.

Now that you know the basics of modern farmhouse style, it’s time to transform your space! Be sure to head in centre to discover an array of furnishings and décor that can help you bring this trend to life.

Looking for more home styling advice? Check out our latest seasonal trend report filled with décor inspiration, interior trends, tips and tricks, and so much more!

Little wonders: how to prepare a nursery

Expecting parents have a lot to consider when waiting for a baby to arrive. There are hospital bags to pack, car seats to install, baby showers to plan, and diapers to buy – and that’s all before there’s a tiny human to raise! However, one of the most exciting tasks to ponder before your newborn arrives has got to be the baby nursery decor; the design, theme, and purchasing all the essentials.

The nursery is about to be a place where you’ll spend many hours of your time for feeding, changing, or putting your little one to sleep (or should we say attempting to). So, you’ll want to invest some much-needed time, effort, and funds into ensuring your nursery is decked out exactly how it should be.

We want you to have one less thing to worry about when your newborn arrives, so we’ve compiled everything you need to know into one place. Read on to learn all about navigating your new nursery.

Baby Bunting Boori 3 Tier Changer $269, Baby Bunting Ergopouch Cocoon $49.95, Baby Bunting Living Textiles Cotton Rope Storage Set $39.95, Baby Bunting Owlet Baby Monitor $249.99, Baby Bunting Zazu Nightlight $59.95, Bed Bath N’ Table Morgan & Finch Pete Pretzel $29.95, DecoRug Luka Shaggy Colour Rug from $199, Forty Winks Boori Corindi Cot $649, Freedom Evie Rocking Chair $1,299, Freedom Mornington Dresser $1,699.

Designing your baby nursery

There are four main factors to consider when designing your nursery – the placement of the cot, glider, changing table, and storage drawers.

The cot should be positioned first and should be placed away from any windows or doors to limit temperature changes, air drafts, and light exposure. Next up, place your glider (aka feeding chair) into a corner nook, ensuring it has enough space around it to rock. Once the cot and chair are placed, slot the drawers and changing table in the leftover space.

Tip: For those who are working with a smaller space, we recommend using your chest of drawers as a changing table as well.

Now that all the key pieces are appropriately placed, it’s time to sort out the lighting. Having a dark room will promote the release of melatonin (the hormone that helps us to both fall asleep and stay asleep). So, be sure to purchase block-out blinds as these will keep the room dark for both nap time and night time. You’ll also want to limit any artificial light such as baby monitors – place these away from the cot so that the light isn’t in the baby’s line of sight when they’re in the cot.

Baby nursery décor

Now onto the fun part – the baby nursery décor! Before getting carried away with an elaborate theme, it’s important to keep in mind the top priority of a nursery and that’s for it to be conducive to sleep. You’ll want your newborn to be exposed to as little stimulation as possible, so avoid using too many decorative pieces that can distract them. Refrain from placing toys or hanging mobiles in and above the cot, in fact, we recommend no toys in the cot until four months of age, which also happens to be the optimal time to introduce a comforter.

This doesn’t mean you can’t have a super stylish baby nursery – you can still stick to a colour palette so the room is cohesive with the rest of your home. Start with a neutral base for the furniture and then add accent lighting, wallpaper, artwork, rugs, and more. Even if tastes change, your accent pieces can easily be swapped out while keeping large investment pieces the same.

Tip: incorporate thick pile rugs and drapes throughout the room to help absorb outside noise.

The essentials

Lastly, it’s time to ensure you have all the essentials for a functional nursery. First up, it’s important to baby-proof the room – secure blinds and electrical cords, keep any medicines out of reach, and set up a baby monitor.

Next, purchase a white noise machine (this will help silence your baby’s built-in alarm clock by drowning out all outside noises during vulnerable phases of light sleep), a swaddle (to make your baby feel safe and comforted), a dim nightlight (to help navigate night time feeding), and of course, nappies, bedding, toys, and clothes.

There you have it! We hope this helps you prepare accordingly for your newborn with baby nursery decor. Be sure to download our first-time parent nursery checklist here to better prepare you for the arrival of your little one.

5 Reasons You Need To Visit Outdoor Living At Aspley Homemaker City

There is no better location in Brisbane to shop for your Summer backyard entertaining needs than at Outdoor Living Aspley. Summer in Queensland is the perfect time of year to embrace the outdoors, get outside and enjoy the sunshine and long, leisurely days. Creating the perfect outdoor oasis that feels like you are on holidays at all times is easy with a few simple tips and tricks. Today we are sharing with you our top recommendations for furniture and styling pieces to create the perfect outdoor living and dining area in your own home. Outdoor Living Aspley is a one stop shop for all your outdoor furniture needs, so be sure to check them out next time you are at the centre.

Outdoor Umbrellas

A summer essential for all Queensland homes, especially those with a pool is an outdoor umbrella. To protect you and your family from the heat and unwanted sun exposure an outdoor umbrella is the perfect addition to your backyard. Outdoor Living Aspley has a range of umbrellas in a variety of colours to create either a simple and chic look or a fun pop of colour. From a small umbrella that allows shade for a couple or a large umbrella that can protect an entire dining table, they have got you covered. We love the Canter Leaver Shelta Umbrella in French Grey for a practical and stylish edition to your backyard.

Outdoor Seating

Entertaining at home during the Summer months is a Queensland tradition and you’ll find most of us in the backyard of a Sunday afternoon relaxing with family and friends. When entertaining at home, adequate outdoor seating is a high priority and options for lounging, sitting and conversation zones must be considered. Outdoor Living Aspley has a huge range of seating options in a wide variety of colours, fabrics and materials to suit any design style. They have beautiful outdoor sofas, armchairs and modular pieces to create the perfect lounging zone on your outdoor patio. Or if you are in need of some bar stools, day beds, sun lounges or dining chairs they have got you covered too.

Outdoor Cushions

Cushions are often thought of for living rooms and bedrooms only and sometimes forgotten in the outdoor decorating space. Outdoor cushions are the perfect addition to any patio or alfresco space as they add a sense of comfort and blend the indoors with the outdoors. Outdoor Living Aspley has beautiful cushions that are purpose made for outdoor use and are specifically designed for marine conditions, UV protection and are water repellent. This means they can stay outside all year long and you won’t notice any colour fading or mould. We love the camburi yellow throw cushion that would be the perfect addition to any outdoor sofa or daybed this Summer.

Outdoor Fire Pits

To create the ultimate outdoor oasis and luxurious entertaining space, we recommend adding an outdoor firepit to your home. Not only do they create a beautiful ambience and look amazing, but they also encourage friends and family to gather around and enjoy quality time together. An outdoor fire pit is the perfect cosy addition to your Summer soiree to end the night in a relaxing way. Outdoor Living Aspley offers a variety of styles and materials, so whether you are looking for a sleek, modern design or a traditional cast iron look, they have got you covered.

Outdoor Plants

Lastly, our final tip for decorating an outdoor area is to add plenty of greenery through outdoor plants. Plants are no longer restricted to garden beds and the perimeter of the backyard, we are seeing beautiful potted plants becoming more and more popular in outdoor designs. We suggest grouping three large pots in varying sizes in the corner of the alfresco area holding tall plants such as a bird of paradise or palm. Add greenery to your tables by potting a large bowl with some succulents and moss for a centrepiece that lasts all year round. Not only do outdoor plants bring life and vibrancy to a space, they also add a pop of colour and statement to your alfresco.

How to master alfresco dining this summer

Nothing beats the classic Australian backyard family BBQ. The sun is shining, the sausages are sizzling, and the tongs are at the ready. Whether it’s a weekend ritual or a special celebration, there’s nothing quite like spending time outside during the summertime. This year, we think it’s about time to skip the restaurants and create a stunning alfresco scene in your own backyard instead. Here’s your ultimate guide to alfresco dining.

Products: Bed Bath N’ Table Panama Stripe Outdoor Cushion $29.95, Eureka Furniture Brighton Dining Chair $849, Eureka Furniture Vendale Oval Dining Table $2,099, Freedom Olive Tree Garden Pot $269, Freedom Soho Cutlery Set $59.95, Provincial Home Living Avery Goblet $12.95, The Furniture Shack Bondi Indoor/Outdoor Bean Bag $329, The Lighting Superstore Mette 47 Rattan Shade $218.

1. Invest in staple pieces

When it comes to outdoor dining and entertaining, it’s important to invest in the big pieces – we’re talking about your dining table, chairs, barbecues, and additional lighting features. These items should be strong enough to withstand the great Australian outdoors (even if they’re under the protection of a patio ceiling). We recommend opting for timber, oak, or steel tables and likewise for chairs. If your dining chairs have plush cushions, ensure they are removable so they can be brought inside during those pesky summer storms. It’s also a good idea to keep these larger pieces cohesive – opt for outdoor dining sets where the sofa, table, and chairs all match.

2. Quality over quantity

Out with the old, in with the new! It’s time to update your dining essentials this summer – we’re talking about cutlery, luxe glasses, and a set of simple ceramic plates. Having good quality dining essentials will make all the difference when entertaining – after all, no one likes paper plates or plastic cups. The best part? These items are going to last for seasons to come so there’s no need to replace them anytime soon!

3. Decorative accents

Now that you’ve got staple furnishings and necessary tableware, the rest is all about showcasing your personal taste and style. Stock up on outdoor cushions, vases, plants, and even sun lounges that match your aesthetic. We’re loving the coastal style this summer (read all about it in our Summer Trend Report).

4. Change up your tablescape

You’re likely to have more than one outdoor dining experience this summer, right? So why not have a few different tablescape options to choose from? Be sure to keep your cutlery and glassware the same but change up your tablecloth, table runner, placemats, and centrepiece. By doing so, you can easily create a completely different feel.

We recommend having one minimal tablescape – this could be a white tablecloth, neutral table runner and placemats, and pillar candles. Another easily achievable tablescape theme is modern retro – create this aesthetic through burnt orange, yellow, and dark green hues.

Tip: mix and match across tablescape themes to create a whole new feel.

It’s officially time to embrace summer with an alfresco dining experience! Remember to play with an array of colours and patterns to suit the ambience of your outdoor dining area and most importantly have fun and soak up the good vibes with your friends and family.

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