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MOODY MONDAY LENDS AUTUMNAL WARMTH TO INTERIORS

The nights are fair drawing in and as evenings get more autumnal, Moody Monday’s innovative collection of bold provocative prints for accessories include this season’s must-have – sumptuous velvet cushions. Perfect for creating a splash of colour, and adding warmth to any sofa.

 

Nebulae Velvet Cushions

 

Debuted at the ICFF New York earlier this year, this collection ‘STELLAR’ is inspired by the boundless hidden beauty of the sky and space. This luxurious, contemporary collection of designs captures the dualistic nature of the skies with a colour palette evoking both dawn and dusk. Vibrant jewel colours accompany mesmerising geometrical patterns paired against contrasting backgrounds.

From the dazzling colours of the Northern Lights to the abstract patterns of constellations, the depths of sky and space provide an intriguing array of inspiration.

The ‘STELLAR’ collection also consists of four wallpaper designs in varying colour ways, three fabric patterns, two cushion designs, four coasters and a set of matching fabric, coaster and placemat designs. One of our most provocative patterns, Nebulae, consists of strong geometric shapes with intense contrasting colours that creatively interpret the enigmatic nature of space.

Designer, Eliza Kesuma comments, “I love the changing of the seasons, which provide me with fresh inspiration to create new and contemporary prints. The Stellar range of fabric fits perfectly into nights on the sofa. Inspired by patterns of light created at dusk and dawn, the warmth and feel of the velvet cushions are the perfect way to create an instant boost.”

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Available to buy at: https://www.moodymonday.co.uk/shop/nebulae-cotton-velvet-cushion/
Follow us at: Twitter #MoodyMondayUK Pinterest – /MoodyMondayUk Facebook – /MoodyMondayUk
Contact:T: +44 (0) 131 618 2979 T: +44 (0) 131 777 2679
Unit 13 – Abbeymount Techbase, 2 Easter Road, Edinburgh, EH7 5AN

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Decorating with Pantone Colour of the year 2016

If you have a keen interest in interior design, you would have seen the Pantone Colour of the year. It was announced last year. For the first time in Pantone’s history, the team decided on two colours – Rose Quartz and Serenity Blue. What a luxury. Instead of popularising one colour, they chose to present them as a combination.

These colours are reminiscent of baby gender reveal parties popular these days. They are soft and very easy on the eye. When paired together, they bring a sense of soothing freshness to an interior space.

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According to Pantone, “Rose Quartz is a persuasive yet gentle tone that conveys compassion and a sense of composure. Serenity is weightless and airy, like the expanse of the blue sky above us, bringing feelings of respite and relaxation even in turbulent times.”

Today’s feature looks at one half of this beautiful Pantone colour duo – Rose Quartz.

Finding the right colours to allow this soft pink colour shine through is important. In today’s feature, we share two applications in a living room setting.

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For a bright and airy look, paint your walls in white or off-white. Pared back with minimal metallic accessories, the pink sofa pops is the centre of attention in this living room. The herringbone patterned flooring adds that extra touch of texture and interest to the room.

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For a look that is calm and sultry but isn’t too feminine, start off with darker walls. To add to the warm scheme, team with rich browns in the other furniture pieces and accessories. It is both simple and appealing.

If you’ve never decorated with this shade of pink before, this is your time to give it a try.

For more industry commentary on the Pantone Colour of the Year

Colour of the year 2016 – Pantone

The Painted History of Rose Quartz and Serenity – Huffington Post

How to decorate your home with Pantone’s Rose Quartz and Serenity – StyleCaster

Kitchens in Pantone’s Colours of the Year – The Kitchin

Image source: Style and Minimalism

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4 Ways to Create a Healthier Kitchen

When it comes to developing a healthier lifestyle, the kitchen is a great place to start. All it takes is a few simple changes to make healthy living a reality. Use these ideas to make 2016 a healthier one at home.

Keep things organised

You’ve decided on the healthy foods worth stocking up. You’ve made a couple of trips to your local grocer or supermarket. Why not give yourself a better chance of including these foods into your cooking schedule?  Rescue them from the dark cupboards they’ve been hiding in and bring them to the forefront.

Out of sight is out of mind, they say. Put an end to storage woes and make organisation your priority this year. Invest in great shelving for your food items, dinnerware and even appliances.  Open shelves provide a great way to keep them within easy reach. The arrangement also forces you to be organised.  That way, you’ll be motivated to eat healthy.

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Bring the herbs in

Indoor plants continue to be a trend in 2016. Fresh herbs are a definite must have. Give your favourite herbs and spices a home in your kitchen so you can add them easily to your meals. You can even create your very own sunken counter garden like this one.

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Go for a natural clean

First things first, deal with unwanted clutter in your kitchen. Get rid of those expired food containers, unsightly items and unused appliances taking up unnecessary space.

Now give everything a good clean. Kick those unpleasant chemical cleaners and disinfectants out and get some natural products in. A cup of white vinegar in some water is fantastic for a natural, non-toxic clean for kitchen surfaces. Lemon juice, baking soda are also perfect natural cleaning agents.

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A simple makeover

Make the kitchen the heart of your home and you’re on the way to healthier living. The happier you are about your kitchen space, the better your eating and cooking choices are likely to be.

Some simple changes can make all the difference. Maybe all your kitchen units are solid but they just need a little TLC. Why not give them a new lick of paint? A new back splash, counter top or wall colour might be all you need to elevate your kitchen’s look. Check out these ideas for great kitchen colour palettes.

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What new changes will you make to create a healthier kitchen at home?

Image sources 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

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Luxury Watch Store Designed by Patricia Urquoila

Patricia Urquoila’s recent luxury retail store design is a perfect combination of creativity and sophistication. Panerai, the luxury Italian watch brand commissioned her to design its first US flagship store in Miami. Designers really do make the world tick, no pun intended.

The leading Spanish designer and architect has challenged the status quo. By creating an ultra-modern environment with class, she translates the brand’s ethos beautifully. We like the way fashion and design come together.

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The luxury store complete with luxurious finishes like gold, marble and bronze has design elements. They cleverly pay an ode to the inner workings of watches. A large wall clock resembles one of the brand’s watch faces. An open stair also mimics the teeth of a gear.

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According to Donna Karan, “Design is a constant challenge to balance comfort with luxe, the practical with the desirable”.

We’re inspired by Patricia’s ability to exhibit this approach effortlessly time and time again. Last year, she designed her SHIMMER glass furniture collection which we shared in a previous blog post.

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Story and images via Dezeen

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Top Interior Books to read in 2016

As we welcome 2016, it gives us the opportunity to look forward to fresh aspirations with a new lease of life. If you haven’t done so already, you can make some new goals today.  Think big and give yourself the chance to see your vision come to reality.

One goal of ours at Moody Monday is to challenge ourselves to innovate more. This will sometimes take us out of our comfort zone but we welcome this. We are eager to learn and find useful resources to help stretch our imagination.

What better way to start off 2016 than with a new book list? If it’s in the world of interior design, we have just the list for you. Read on for some of our favourite interior design books to open your mind up to a world of new possibilities. No doubt your home will thank you for it too.

1. The Tailored Interior by Greg Natale

Offering readers a step-by-step guide of the interior design process, Greg shares how he creates vibrant homes with his bold signature style. Find out more

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2. Bright Bazaar: Embracing Colour for Make-You-Smile Style by Will Taylor

This colour-popping book is bursting with beautiful images and great ideas on how to use colour in every space in your home. Find out more

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3. Sustainable Design Book by Rebecca Proctor

This book opens the door to a world of inspiration from over 200 designers who are taking ecological product design very seriously. It is sure to surprise and educate you. Find out more

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4. Decorating with Style by Abigail Ahern

We love how she makes dark interiors look so luxurious and captivating. Find out more

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5. Style Council by Sarah Thompson

Get introduced to unique interior spaces which celebrate savvy home style in Britain’s ex-council homes. Find out more

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Happy reading and a happy new year! Let us know which ones become your favourite.

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6 Christmas tree decorating ideas

Food, music, presents, gifts, there’s so much to plan ahead for Christmas but undoubtedly one of the highlights of getting our homes ready for Christmas is decorating the tree. Whether real or artificial, Christmas trees come in all sorts of shapes and sizes and they can provide the perfect avenue to express bouts of creativity.

You can stick to what’s tried and tested or decide to switch things up with your tree decorations this year. We have some ideas to get your creative juices flowing.

Channel Scandi chic by letting your green tree stand out against the backdrop of grey tones and muted colours. The key to this is keeping  the decorations really simple using pretty icicles, festive accessories and fairy lights.

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Stay in harmony with your living room’s colour palette by sticking to one colour for the tree decorations. In this cosy living room, baubles of different sizes create the right amount of texture and impact

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Sticking to a green colour scheme, the ornaments provide variety and make the tree anything but boring.

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You can’t go wrong with a colourful traditional look. Go bold and beautiful with vibrant garlands, baubles, ribbons and accessories.

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An alternative Christmas tree like this one with a hoop design is an option for those who like to try something unique.blog6_christmas tree

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Have fun decorating!

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Inspiring Designers, Part I : Fifi Fimandjaja

A few weeks ago, our designer and founder, Eliza Kesuma returned from a nice holiday in Indonesia, her home country. It made us think – why not introduce all our lovely readers to the world of interior design in beautiful Indonesia.

This week’s spotlight is on Fifi Fimandjaja, one of Indonesia’s leading interior designers catering to high-end residential and hospitality clients.

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Photo: ©Adeline Krisanti 2015  via  Idea Online

We particularly like how her stylish mix of modern style with cultural elements provides non-ostentatious luxury and glamour. Her spaces have a knack for matching the right use of colours with interior styles.

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Photo: © Vivianne Faye 2015

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Photo: © Vivianne Faye 2015

For more on her work, visit http://www.viviannefaye.com

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Stunning Blue Interiors

According to research, Blue is the world’s favourite colour. With so many beautiful shades, this colour depicts calmness and serenity and is loved by many interior designers and designer wannabes around the world.

Dark blue hues are usually great for autumn and winter. Get inspired by these beautiful blue rooms.

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The blue walls in this gorgeous living room are complemented by the gold and white accents

Image credit: Plum Design

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The statement wallpaper acts as a great backdrop in this blue and grey room

Image credit: House to Home

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Stunning blue wall panels add vibrant colour and accent to this luxurious room

Image credit: Art Ekstrax

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We love the way this beautiful sofa stands out perfectly placed in symmetry with the fireplace and wall art.

Image credit: From Greenwich

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Paired with white, the blue furnishings create a relaxing colour scheme in this bed room

Image credit: LuxDeco

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Simplicity at its best, the colour scheme takes advantage of indigo blue

Image credit: Port and Quarter

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4 Tips for organising your home office

The home office is more popular these days than it has ever been, thanks to flexible working practices and more people starting their own businesses from home.

At Moody Monday, we’re all for owning and having control of your space. Say goodbye to the days of chaos and messy desks, it’s time to make this the week of the organised home office.  Here are a few tips to get you started.

Declutter, declutter, declutter

If you’re not throwing things out on a regular basis, it’s very likely that you’re keeping more stuff than you really need. Like we do with our wardrobes and other rooms in the home, it is important to declutter your home office regularly to keep on top of things. Scan important items, remove old magazines, paperwork you’ve dealt with, excess folders and the like. The saying “Less is more” is definitely true for the home office, you can concentrate on only what is truly relevant.

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Images via Anthony Pepe and Home Designing

Invest in a good organisational system

I have a soft spot for making sure everything has a home. Books, stationery, folders, office supplies, post it notes, you name them. It’s undeniable that we all have different preferences about how particular we are about these things, however some level of organisation is helpful for remembering where things are and bringing a sense of calm and order into your office space.

Make sure you have adequate storage to prevent your desk from becoming messy and untameable. If your home office has evolved over the years, it’s most likely needing a full evaluation to be sure the space is still working well for you. You can either plan this out yourself or hire the services of an interior designer to help you out.

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Image via Intelligent Genie

Choose your desk and chair wisely

In most corporate offices, there is much emphasis placed on ergonomics. It’s usually in the company policies to ensure that employees have the right environment and equipment to do their work efficiently and are also well informed about this. Why not have the same level of care and attention in your home office? Be sure to get a chair which provides all the support your body needs and the desk is at the right height and is well suited to your needs. If unsure about what to do, contact a specialist home office furniture company.

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Image via Neat and Tidy

Personalise with something you love

Whether it’s a family photo, an inspirational quote, your favourite flowers, it’s good to have some positive visual reminders. They can help you to be thankful for the things you’re grateful for and are also pretty handy for those days when you need that extra bit of motivation. . We all know it is important to have the right mind-set to be productive at work.

Your home office should be an expression of who you are and the design style of your home. Be free to show your personality and style with the use of colour, texture and unique accessories in the design of your home office.

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Image via Ultralinx and Style Me Pretty

Your home office doesn’t have to be the usual desk and chair setting in a separate corner of your home, explore the possibility of using what you already have at home to your best advantage. A few weeks ago, we looked at how you can use the space under your suitcase from a previous blog post or it could even be by your bedside, there are loads of options to explore.

Whatever you do, keep your home office organised.

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Cosy Living Room Ideas

The living room is usually the hub of family activity and interaction in the home. Most of us are constantly looking for ways to make ours cosy and inviting. Today, we share with you some of our favourite cosy living room ideas.

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The luxurious velvet used on the armchair and ottomans naturally add a luxurious and cosy feel to this contemporary living room.

Source: Luxury Living Group

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Soft greys and blacks create a polished and sophisticated look in this monochromatic scheme. The rug is a perfect anchor for creating a clearly defined living room space.

Source: Home Designing

blog3_cosy living room_homifyArea rugs like this give a room that instant cosy update. They are perfect for sinking one’s feet in on those cold nights. The grey fluffy look makes it stand out from the brown furniture adding texture to the room’s look.

Source: Homify

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More a home theatre than a living room, we love the striking red colour scheme. Red and brown work harmoniously well.

Source: Zillow

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Nothing screams cosy as much as a lovely fireplace. This extra long fireplace makes a big statement in this living room. Teamed with dark hues and wooden logs as additional furniture, it is safe to say this will be a well-used family room.

Source: Dwell

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The vibrant blue colour scheme naturally creates a calm and serene atmosphere in this lounge. The contrasting armchair certainly adds a welcome unexpected touch of glam.

Source: House to Home

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We think you can never have too many scatter cushions. This simple living room has an inviting sofa against a neutral and minimalist backdrop making it perfect for those long hours of family fun and conversation.

Source: Dwell