Tag Archives: Provincial Home Living

spring mocktails

Spring into flavour with mocktail recipes

As the last wisps of winter’s chill leave, our palates are yearning for some refreshing and exciting flavours. Luckily, spring is the perfect time to revitalise your drink menu and indulge in the sweet sips and savours of the season. And what better way to do so than with three delightful spring mocktail recipes? Below, we’ll raise a glass (and a few stylish ones at that!) to the new season with drink recipes that are expertly paired alongside the perfect glassware and bar cart styling accessories from Aspley Homemaker City. 

 

Spring fling mocktail 

Meet your new spring obsession: the spring fling mocktail! This refreshing sipper combines the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavours, with a hint of sweetness that’ll quench your thirst. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on a warm day or need a pick-me-up, this fruity drink will be you new go-to. 

Ingredients

  • 1 cup water 
  • 1 cup granulated sugar 
  • 2 cups mixed berry juice (such as raspberry, cranberry, and blueberry)
  • 1 cup sparkling water
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • Handful of ice cubes
  • Fresh berries and lime wedges for garnish

Method

  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the water and granulated sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Let cool before using. 
  2. In a large pitcher combine the berry juice, lime juice, and water and sugar mixture. 
  3. Stir in the sparking water. 
  4. Fill 4 glasses with ice and pour the spring fling mocktail over the ice
  5. Garnish with fresh berries and a lime wedge. 

 

bar cart styling spring cocktails decor

Bed Bath N’ Table Morgan & Finch Floral Spray $7.95, Freedom Ecology Aveline Cocktail Glass Set $59.95, Freedom Pesce Resin Pitcher $79.95, House Tempa Bradley Bar Cart $399, Pillow Talk Mr Consistent Dried Lime Cocktial Garnish $29.95, Pillow Talk Mr Consistent Le Bebe Cocktail Shaker $54.95, Provincial Home Living Phoenix Tea Towel $12.95. 

 

 

Cucumber lime refresher 

The cucumber lime refresher is a light and lovely mocktail combining the subtle sweetness of cucumber with a burst of citrusy zing. The result? A refreshing, hydrating, and delicious mocktail perfect for a post-workout refreshment or picnic. 

Ingredients 

  • 2 cups cucumber-infused water (slice a cucumber and let it steep in water for at least 30 minutes)
  • ¼ cup water 
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar 
  • 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
  • 1/4 cup sparkling water
  • Slice of cucumber and lime wheel for garnish

Method

  1. Slice a cucumber and add it to a large pitcher or jug. Pour in 2 cups of water and let it steep in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. 
  2. In a small saucepan, combine the water and granulated sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Let cool before using. 
  3. Strain the cucumber-infused water into a large pitcher or jug. Add the lime juice and the water and sugar mixture. 
  4. Stir in the sparkling water. 
  5. Fill 4 glasses with ice and pour the cucumber lime refresher over the ice. 
  6. Top with a slice of cucumber and a lime wheel. 

 

summer lemon and lime bar cart decor

Bed Bath N’ Table Morgan & Finch Cora Napkin Set of 4 $24.95, Eureka Furniture Louis Fleur-de-Lis Pitcher Jug $24, Freedom Ecology Rattan Tumbler Set of 4 $49.95, House Tempa Bradley Bar Cart $349, Pillow Talk Muse Tally Decorative Vase $29.95, Provincial Home Living Lemon Stem $24.95, Provincial Home Living Lime Decoration $3.95 Each. 

 

 

Garden party spritzer 

The garden party spritzer is a vibrant and fun mocktail, boasting tropical flavours with lemon-lime soda, pineapple juice, and a splash of lemon juice. It’s fruity, bubbly, and basically begging to be served at your next alfresco gathering. 

Ingredients 

  • 2 cups lemon-lime soda
  • 1 cup pineapple juice
  • 1/4 cup grenadine syrup
  • Splash of lemon juice (1-2 tbsp)
  • Edible flowers and sprigs of rosemary for garnish

Method 

  1. In a large pitcher, combine the lemon-lime soda, pineapple juice, and grenadine syrup. 
  2. Stir in a splash of fresh lemon juice. 
  3. Fill 4 glasses with ice and pour the garden party spritzer over the ice. 
  4. Garnish with flowers like lavender, violas, or pansies and a spring of rosemary. 

 

colourful bar cart styling

Bed Bath N’ Table Morgan & Finch Carnaby Oval Platter $29.95, Freedom Orchid Vase Arrangement $49.95, House Ecology Galet 1.2L Jug $44.95, Pillow Talk Habitat Martini Bar Cart $169.95, Pillow Talk Muse Atlas Martini Glasses Set of 2 $49.95, Pillow Talk Muse Zoe Glass Vase $12.95, Provincial Home Living Ostern Paper Serviette 40 Pack $9.95. 

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

How to design a feng shui bedroom

Want to turn your bedroom into a calming space where you can rest and reset every day? You’re in luck! Our top feng shui bedroom ideas will help create a space that’s as beautiful as it is peaceful.

But first, let’s get back to basics: what even is feng shui? In a nutshell, it’s an ancient Chinese philosophy to do with harnessing the power of energy (or “chi”) to create a space that feels super balanced. The word ‘feng’ means wind and ‘shui’ means water – so, together, these symbolise the way of wind and water (aka the flow of life).

Ever since the 1970s, feng shui has evolved in Western culture and has become a thoughtful approach to designing spaces through balancing furniture, décor, and layout to maximise the flow of good vibes (and minimise the bad).

We bet you’re wondering how exactly to design a feng shui bedroom. Simply read on and follow our eight essential feng shui design tips. Let’s get started!

 

 

feng shui bedroom furniture and decor

Bed Bath N’ Table Morgan & Finch Sully Cushion $69.95, Eureka Furniture Jamaica Palms Artwork $199, Freedom Fab Habitat Plumeria Round Rug $54.95, Freedom Klara Queen Bed $2,199, Pillow Talk Circa Candle $39.95, Pillow Talk Muse Calie Table Lamp $249.95, Provincial Home Living Austin Bedside Table $399.

 

Tip 1: Choose the right bed and placement

According to the feng shui principles, your bed influences wealth, health, and relationships. To harness its full potential, place your bed at the farthest point from the door, facing south, without directly facing any doors. Ensure your bed is at a comfortable height, allowing energy to flow freely underneath. This placement will promote restful sleep, vitality, and a deeper connection with yourself and your space.

 

Tip 2: Invest in a supportive headboard

In feng shui, a headboard represents stability, security, and support in your life. Be sure to choose a solid headboard with a smooth, perforation-free design. Opt for soft, rounded edges to promote energy flow and ensure it’s securely attached to provide a further sense of safety and comfort.

 

Tip 3: Buy a bedside rug

Use a bedside rug to absorb energy and create a cosy atmosphere. Place one on each side of the bed if two people share the same room.

 

Tip 4: Opt for a neutral colour palette

Create a peaceful ambience with a neutral colour scheme. Feng shui experts recommend warm earth tones like cream, peach, and tan, plus calming blues and greys. Be sure to avoid bright colours for a more calming atmosphere.

 

Tip 5: Focus on balance and symmetry

Use identical bedside tables and lamps to create symmetry and balance. Ensure you leave equal space on both sides of the bed so that the room remains aligned and even.

 

Tip 6: Incorporate soothing scents

Scented candles enhance the senses and create a warm, healing atmosphere. They also clear energy and uplift the bedroom’s feng shui. Be sure to regularly cleanse your bedroom with sage or sweet orange oil for a refreshing boost.

 

Tip 7: Minimise electronics

Remove any technology such as a television or computer as they give off a lot of unwanted energy. Instead, the bedroom should be a distraction-free zone for relaxation and contemplation.

 

Tip 8: Be mindful of mirror placement

Avoid bedroom mirrors, as they reflect and bounce energy, causing restlessness. If a mirror is an essential, consider placing it behind a closet door instead.

And there you have it! By incorporating these simple yet powerful design tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a space filled with good energy. Ready for more? Book a free interior styling session with our centre stylist, Eliza Grace.

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. 

winter table decor

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.

outdoor entertaining autumn hosting a group of friends

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. 

autumn outdoor entertaining furniture and decor trends armchair, outdoor lamp, outdoor firepit, outdoor rug

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. Outdoor Living offers a wide range of outdoor firepits to choose from. 

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!

provincial home living modern farmhouse style

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. 

australian modern farmhouse styling, paddle, painting, lamp, occasional chair, bookshelf

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!

alfresco dining

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.

deck the halls to decorate your space candles, wreath, mini christmas tree, cushion, candle

Deck the Halls: How to Decorate Your Space With Style This Christmas

It’s the most wonderful time of the year and as Christmas 2023 rolls around, we’re eagerly awaiting the chance to hang out with our favourite people, soak in the festive vibes, and enjoy the holiday cheer. But with all these family gatherings and merry celebrations on the cards, it’s also time to get your abode ready to entertain.

Need some ideas? Here’s the ultimate roundup of essential Christmas home decorations to get you through the holiday season – from festive décor to tableware, we haven’t forgotten a thing.

deck the halls to decorate your space candles, wreath, mini christmas tree, cushion, candle

Bed Bath N’ Table Morgan & Finch Antler $14.99, Bed Bath N’ Table Morgan & Finch Dinner Candles Textured Metallic Set of 4 $9.99, Bed Bath N’ Table Morgan & Finch Protea Wreath $89.99, Freedom Glasshouse Fragrances Candle $59.95, House Alex Liddy Mode Set of 4 Coupe Glasses $79.99, House Ecology Peace Sauce Jug $21.95, Pillow Talk Habitat Christmas Mariah Hanging Star Decoration $7.95, Pillow Talk Habitat Gnome Sweet Gnome Christmas European Pillowcase $34.95, Provincial Home Living Festive Village Tealight Holder $59.95

Tableware

Want to upstage your 2022 Christmas tablescape? Then a few new additions are a must! Plus, who doesn’t love setting the table for the holidays? It’s a festive and fun activity, especially when the entire family gathers around to indulge in a feast afterwards!

First and foremost, a centrepiece! This year, we recommend keeping it simple by opting for a humble candle or some fresh flowers arranged in a gorgeous jug vase. Keep in mind that larger centrepieces are often removed once everyone is seated and the food is served, so consider a reasonable height to ensure it can stay on the table.

Next up, glassware! Yep, it’s time to ditch the paper cups (apologies to the clean up crew!). But glassware truly makes all the difference; it will transform your table from drab to fab, adding a touch of luxury and opulence to a day full of celebration and unity.

The rest of your table should follow a theme – whether it be woodlands, traditional, or vibrant colours. Be sure to complete the look with placemats, ceramic plates, cutlery, napkins, and even name tags.

Home scents

Often overlooked, yet undeniably essential – we’re talking about holiday home scents, of course! There’s no doubt that Christmas somehow has an aroma, a nostalgic combination of freshly baked sugar cookies, gingerbread, cherries, and pinecones.

So, what better way to fill your home with festive spirit than with a distinctive scent that encapsulates Christmas? We recommend the Glasshouse Fragrances White Christmas candle – it smells divine! Burn the candle throughout the season and then when Christmas rolls around next year, find a new festive scent to fill your home with!

Traditional décor

It wouldn’t be Christmas without some traditional décor! We’re talking about Christmas trees, wreaths, tree hangings, and other novelty motifs. Be sure to keep all the pieces within an overall theme – even if it’s just a colour scheme like pale green, pink, and gold. This way your home will feel cohesive from when your guests walk through the door all the way through to the dining area and living space.

Subtle additions

It’s important to note that Christmas home décor doesn’t necessarily have to be cliché. In fact, it could be super subtle with the ability to be repurposed throughout the year. How? Choose throw blankets and pillows that stick within your colour scheme but don’t have any Christmas messaging or symbols. We recommend the same approach when it comes to decorative accessories. For example, the Bed Bath N’ Table Antler screams Christmas when seen next to other festive pieces, but when styled in another season, it could have a completely different feel to it.

We know that planning for Christmas home décor can be a really big deal! Everyone wants their home to feel stylish and welcoming all while maintaining that festive vibe. Luckily, achieving this balance is simpler than ever this year with Aspley Homemaker City. Find all your fave holiday home décor essentials under one roof. Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and happy decorating!

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

decluttering

Decluttering Guide: 5 Dos & Don’ts

We’ve all been there; over time our homes build up with clutter, and before we know it, there’s not a spare cupboard or shelf in sight!

Decluttering and re-organising the home can often feel like a daunting or insurmountable task, but it doesn’t have to be. With our helpful decluttering tips, you can feel empowered to transform your space into a clean, clear, and organised haven – now, and into the future. From using Pinterest for inspiration to investing in functional furniture and finding long-term storage solutions, we’ve got you covered. Read our decluttering guide below to get started on your journey to a clutter-free, stylish abode.

DO: Create a Pinterest Board for Inspiration

The First DO in our decluttering guide? Find some inspo! Pinterest is an amazing tool that provides endless inspiration for every aspect of your life, from health and wellbeing to style and fashion to interior design and home organisation. We recommend creating a dedicated board for decluttering and organising your home. Fill it with images that resonate with your style and inspire you to declutter without sacrificing aesthetics. You could even break this down further by creating separate boards for decluttering separate rooms. What is it about the spaces that inspire you? It could be the rattan boxes they use for odds and ends, the blanket box they use for toys, or the way they store their makeup brushes and toiletries. Once you have your ideas, make a list of the storage pieces, breaking the list down into what you need for each room for ease of tackling your decluttering project (we suggest taking on just a single room at a time). Head to Howard’s Storage World to pick up all the items you need. Soon you’ll feel more motivated to organise all the other rooms in your home as well and decluttering will be a breeze – and enjoyable!

DO: Invest in Functional Furniture

One of the most effective ways of decluttering and organising your home when you’re short on storage space (or space in general), is to invest in furniture that’s dual purpose. Storing your linen inside a bed frame with drawers, blankets inside an ottoman, and your favourite magazines and books within your coffee table are all great ways to declutter home areas and overcome a lack of storage space, while ensuring you aren’t giving up on style. Freedom has a fantastic selection of functional furniture that will not only suit any aesthetic, but also get you excited about decluttering and organising your home. This is also a clever way of getting rid of unwanted items too – if you forget you have the toys, linen, knick knacks once stored away, or don’t use them over the next 12 to 18 months, it may be a sign it’s time to sell, donate or bin!

 

DON’T: Overcrowd Your Countertops

The first DON’T in our decluttering guide: clear those countertops! Your kitchen counter can sometimes become one of the most cluttered areas in the house. This could be for a variety of reasons, but to help declutter your countertops, one of the best things you can do is minimise that which lives on your countertop by giving it a home – and styling everything that needs to stay!

Remove any mail, catalogues, paperwork or other household items out of your kitchen and find areas to house whatever’s left. Create a coffee corner for your coffee machine and mugs or place your utensils in a small utensil holder if your drawers are already full of kitchen necessities. Try to source storage items that match your countertop or kitchen style, while also providing ample space or functionality. If bench space is at a premium, think of ways you might be able to move things elsewhere – opt for paper towel holders that can be attached under cupboards, and coffee pod rails or spice racks on the inside of doors.

House also has an incredible selection of drinkware, glassware and dinnerware to help make your kitchen look super chic.

DO: Implement Long-Term Storage Solutions & Practices

After decluttering your space, focus on sourcing long-term storage solutions and decluttering methods you can implement to maintain or managed your organised home ongoing. This step must always be done last, so you know the exact number of solutions you need and what your home is lacking, and the exact size and space of where you will be storing them. If you love glass jars or containers for your pantry or fridge, we recommend being consistent by sticking to one style of clear jar in varying sizes (rather than accumulating containers of all styles, shapes and sizes – unless that’s your aesthetic).

Baskets in cupboards are a great way to keep like-minded items together to avoid any unnecessary clutter – decide if you prefer baskets with lids, or without, and what style will best suit your space and it’s desired function. You may even want to implement a practice of going through these every 3 to 4 months to see if there’s anything in them you need to throw out.

Howard’s Storage World, Freedom and Provincial Home Living have a great range of storage solutions perfect for decluttering. For more permanent solution, Kitchen Connection can help with kitchen redesign, and storage solution inserts such as corner storage solutions, wireware, rubbish, recycling and clutter solutions and sink accessories. We suggest you scroll through the Aspley Homemaker City website for more decluttering and home organisation tips and tricks before you head to the centre.

DON’T: Chuck Everything Into a Box & Forget About it

Last but not least in our decluttering guide: Don’t feel tempted to just chuck stuff into a box or drawer if that’s not a good home for it. If you don’t have good decluttering practices in place, it can be all too easy to open a door or drawer, shove your clutter in, and hope to never see it again.

Find common-sense homes that will help you remember where things are, and don’t be afraid of the label maker! There’s nothing worse than coming back to something you’re forgotten about in your fridge or pantry and wondering what it is (or used to be), or rifling through unmarked boxes for that international power adaptor the night before an international flight.

Decluttering Your Home Made Easy at Aspley Homemaker City

Decluttering and organising your home can be a stress-free and enjoyable process – provided you put some practices in place and make a plan. Use Pinterest for inspiration, invest in functional furniture, find long-term storage solutions, and style your countertops for a clutter-free and aesthetically pleasing home. With the help of Aspley Homemaker City’s fantastic retailers and the dos and don’ts in our decluttering guide, you’ll become a decluttering pro in no time, achieving a clean and highly-functional living space. Get started today and you’ll enjoy a clutter-free home in no time!

6 Hacks For Keeping An Organised Home In The New Year

If you are like us, one of your new year’s resolutions is to have a more organised and structured home. In today’s post we are sharing our top hacks for not only implementing organisational solutions but staying on top of them long term. We have so many handy tips and tricks we’ve used time and time again and suggestions on the perfect storage solutions that will transform your home life. Read on to find out more!

1. Start The Year Fresh

The festive season is one of abundance, decadence and overflow, so it is no wonder we all feel like cleansing and minimising once the new year rolls around. For most people the start of January can be a calm time where work is quiet, and you can reset both yourself and your home. We suggest setting a day aside to have a thorough declutter of the highest traffic areas of your home such as the kitchen, pantry, wardrobe, kid’s bedrooms, playrooms and garage. Sort through all items and get rid of anything that has not been used recently, has been replaced with something new or that no longer brings you joy. By starting off the year with a declutter and organising day this allows you to head into the new year with a fresh perspective and a clear mind.

 

2. Create A Drop Zone

Creating designated drop zones in the home allows for clutter to be contained to one area and avoids it building up throughout various areas of the home. We recommend creating a ‘drop-zone’ that is separate from the kitchen or living area in a space such as the entryway, home office or towards the garage. Create a drop zone by using items such as baskets, in-trays, boxes or containers and label them with each family member’s name. You can pick up some beautiful baskets from Freedom or some great storage containers from Howard’s Storage World that would be perfect for this. The key to keeping drop zones under control is to dedicate a couple of minutes each week to sorting through and actioning any items that need to be actioned and putting things away that have a separate home.

 

3. Go Label Crazy

Labels are a lifesaver when it comes to organising your home. Not only do they look aesthetically pleasing, but they help each member of the family know where items belong. We recommend labelling key areas of the home that are constantly having items picked up, put back, used, and taken in and out. For example, categorise your pantry using wire baskets for different food types and use swing tags to label. The linen cupboard is another great area of the home to use beautiful baskets to categories like-minded items such as sheets, quilt cover sizes, towels and more.

 

4. Purchase Your Storage Solutions Now

December is the perfect time of year to pick up a bargain as the Christmas and Boxing Day events are in full swing! If you have the time, we suggest making a list of items such as baskets, containers, drawer dividers and turntables and heading in store to grab yourself a saving. We love Howard’s Storage World for all our kitchen, wardrobe and bathroom storage solutions and Provincial Home Living and Freedom for gorgeous baskets.

5. Set A Timer

When thinking about decluttering and organising your home it can often become overwhelming as you do not know where to begin. As the saying goes, the easiest way to achieve something is to ‘just start’. We love setting a timer to either 15 minutes or 30 minutes and having a ‘fire round’ of decluttering, picking up items that are lying around, sorting a drawer or deep cleaning an area that has been neglected. You will be surprised how much you can get done in a short amount of time if you set your timer, put your phone on silent and pop on some inspiring music to get motivated!

 

6. Lock In Maintenance Days In Your Calendar

Implementing organisational solutions in your home such as categorising, labelling and decluttering is the first step in creating an organised home. The second and arguably most important step is to ‘maintain’ the spaces long term. Having an organised home is not a matter of ‘setting and forgetting’, rather a system that is put in place and maintained regularly for optimum performance. Maintaining your organisation solutions simply means to set aside time in your calendar every quarter to check in on the systems put in place. This can include going through the pantry and throwing away expired foods, sorting through each family members in tray and ensuring all items are put back in their designated category baskets in the linen cupboard and playroom.

How to decorate with colour

Decorating with colour can be daunting even for the most seasoned home renovators and designers. Having the confidence to go bold with a colour or choose a combination of multiple colours does not always come naturally. Today we are sharing with you some simple tools and tips for how to incorporate colour into your home in an easy and stress-free way. From using the one colour in varying tones to choosing the correct colour combo for your interior design style, we’ve got you covered!

Start With Soft Furnishings

Soft furnishings are the simplest way to introduce colour to your home and allow you to switch them out with the varying seasons. Soft furnishings include items like cushions, throw rugs, blankets, curtains, and other decorative elements that are often affordable and do not require a big commitment when purchasing. Try adding coloured cushions in tones of blue or green for Spring Summer and switch to warmer tones of orange, mustard, or forest green for Autumn Winter. By keeping your large furniture pieces neutral, you can have fun with colour in your soft furnishings! Head into Pillow Talk and Bed Bath N’ Table to view their gorgeous range this weekend!

 

Try Paint, Panelling Or Wallpaper

If you want to make a statement with colour in your home, then we recommend adding a splash to your walls. Changing the paint colour of a room can completely transform the space and is a relatively affordable way to make a big impact without spending too much money. We recommend opting for either a subtle colour such as sage green or a muted blue for all walls or doing a bold hue of dark navy for ultimate impact. We also love adding panelling to painted walls to add an extra layer of depth and up levelling the feel of the home. Wallpaper is another great way to add a pop of colour and pattern to your home and looks gorgeous in a powder room, dining room or bedroom.

 

Colour Pairings

Pairing the perfect colour tones together can be a tricky task to master but looks absolutely beautiful when done right. A classic colour pairing that works well together is using muddy greens with tan for a warm and relaxing look. We also love using mustard with pink or red for a brightly coloured warm toned feel in your living room or bedroom. Blue always pairs well with tans, beiges and white to create a beautifully traditional combination that suits most classic design styles. Head into stores such as Rice Furniture, Freedom and Provincial Home Living to see how they have paired their beautiful store displays with the perfect colour combinations.

 

Using Colours For Particular Design Styles

An interior design style is a group of certain elements from the furniture to the fixtures to the decorative accessories that work together to create a particular look. For example, the ever-popular Hamptons style uses a colour palette of mostly white and beige paired perfectly with a traditional, rich blue or green. Whereas the Mid-Century design style must include warm tones of orange, yellow, brown and red to create the ultimate 60’s vibe. The coastal design style sticks to a predominately neutral colour palette of beige white and tan with washed out tones of blue, green, and orange. If you would like to learn more about how you can incorporate a particular design style into your home and what colours to use, then book in for your free styling session with our resident stylist this weekend!

 

Use Shades Of The One Colour

If pairing a variety of colours sounds too intimidating or you prefer a softer and less contrasting look, then we recommend using varying shades of the one colour when decorating. Using an ombre effect of one colour creates a soft and calming look, whilst still having impact and adding vibrancy to a space. Try adding varying shades of blue or green from light to dark in your cushion combinations. Against a neutral-toned scheme of whites, beiges or greys the ombre effect looks stunning. You can also try this decorating style with your home décor pieces choosing vases, books, and candles in a variety of shades such as pink, green, or orange. Head into our beautiful retailers to see how they have incorporated this decorating trick in their styling!

 

Playing It Safe With Neutrals

When we think of colour in interior design and home decorating, often we imagine bright painted walls, coloured furniture pieces and a colourful array of home décor objects. This definitely doesn’t have to always be the case. If you are a fan of neutrals and lean more towards a minimal design style, you can still incorporate colour into your home. Choosing pieces that have a subtle hint or an undertone of a certain colour can be enough to bring a space to life. For example, using soft sage green cushions paired with a neutral throw rug will create a styled look on your sofa. Or try using a pale blush pink wall colour or inn an accent chair for a subtle pop of colour.

Using colour in your home does not have to be daunting. You can incorporate as much or as little colour into your home as you are comfortable with. We look forward to seeing you soon at Aspley Homemaker City to help you on your home decorating journey!