Thursday 4 May 2023

Bedroom Feng Shui Rules

As modern life gets more hectic and stressful, it's more important than ever that you get a restful sleep. For many people, that's easier said than done, but it's worth exploring different ways in which we can improve the time we spend sleeping.

One possibility is to use the ancient Chinese art of feng shui.

Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/an-elephant-figurine-vase-with-plants-6691748/

What Is Feng Shui?

In simple terms, it's an ancient practice of positioning items such as bedroom furniture within the home in order to allow the energy to flow freely. It's all about achieving balance with the natural world to create a harmonious atmosphere.

What is this energy that we're talking about? Well, those who practise feng shui believe in a universal life force energy called chi (or Qi) that flows everywhere and through everything, just like wind and water might flow. This gives a clue to the name; feng shui literally means wind-water and is usually translated as the way of wind and water.

If anything blocks the energy flow, then the balance is upset and problems may appear, and these can present themselves physically and mentally. It can also affect your relationships and finances!

Incidentally, don't worry too much about pronunciation. There are several different ways to pronounce the name in various Chinese languages, but most people in the west say fung shway, and that's fine. The most important thing is to keep an open mind and give it a go.

So, how can this ancient art help you get a restful night's sleep? Check out the following advice from feng shui experts on how to arrange your bedroom!

Source: https://stock.adobe.com/uk/images/zen-interior-with-potted-bamboo-plant-natural-interior-design-concept-classic-bedroom-scandinavian-modern-style-minimalistic-architecture/209976891

HomesDirect365 Feng Shui Bedroom Rules

The first rule of feng shui may be a difficult one for many people: avoid clutter.

Our bedrooms are places of rest, but we often cram them with stuff - usually because we don't have space elsewhere. However, as far as possible, it's good to have a clear-out and get rid of anything you don't need. Anything else should be stowed away in a closet, wardrobe or dressing table. Homes Direct 365 has some amazing examples with ample storage space, so be sure to take a look.

So, now you've tidied up a bit, let's continue...

Position Your Bed Well

Positive energy placement in the bedroom is vital, according to feng shui principles. You should place your bed in a 'commanding position' in the room, ideally against a solid wall to bring a sense of security and thus a good night's sleep.

That means you should have a clear view of the door from your bed, but it must not be in direct alignment with the bedroom door. From a feng shui perspective, this allows you to see and feel what or who is approaching you energetically and metaphorically. Essentially, you get a heads-up on what's coming to you in life, giving you time to prepare. That means that there are fewer surprises and less stress.

You should avoid placing your bed opposite an ensuite bathroom door. Also don't put your bed beneath any large, obvious pieces of bedroom architecture, like ceiling fans, sharp angles, skylights, sloped ceilings and beams. These can feel oppressive and will eventually introduce an oppressive atmosphere as you sleep.

Source: https://stock.adobe.com/uk/images/zen-interior-with-potted-bamboo-plant-natural-interior-design-concept-modern-panoramic-bedroom-with-big-window-double-bed-with-pillows-and-house-plants-architecture-concept/480414056

Feng Shui Bedroom Layout

Aside from the position of your bed, you should ideally create some symmetry in your bedroom, especially if there are two of you sharing the room. When both parties have roughly equal space to share, it creates more harmony between you.

Yes, the shape and size of some bedrooms may not allow you to do this easily, but give it a try if you can - even the intention of doing so can help.

One good example is to buy two bedside tables and put one on either side of your bed, each with matching table lamps.

Shop our matching La Rochelle French Bedroom Collection

Grounding The Energy

Many people have hard floors, such as laminate or polished floorboards. While this makes for a great-looking room, it can send the energy flow out of balance; it's all about yin and yang.

The hard surface needs (yang) something soft (yin) to balance it, and that can be achieved by placing a rug near the bed, or even underneath it. This helps to ground the energy and bring balance to the room, meaning that you are more likely to get a good night's rest.

Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/modern-bedroom-interior-with-mirror-and-carpet-on-floor-4740489/

Houseplants

We all know that these are great for oxygenating the room and bringing a feeling of well-being. However, it's not good feng shui to have too many in the bedroom! Ask any feng shui consultant and they'll probably tell you that an abundance of houseplants draws too much energy, throwing everything out of harmony.

In fact, some say that you should avoid having plants in the bedroom at all, though others say that if you have a large bedroom then it won't hurt to have a single potted plant in the corner.

Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/nEtpvJjnPVo

The Importance Of The Headboard

Few people realise how important this item is; the headboard represents stability, so be sure to attach it securely to the bed or wall. A weak and wobbly headboard will encourage a feeling of insecurity that can affect romantic relationships.

Also, try to find one with soft edges if at all possible, and position your bed facing south or west. Wooden headboards are best as these provide a sense of solidity and strength.

Ideally, it should be a solid headboard with an unbroken surface, making a shield that protects and supports you.

Metal headboards are frowned upon in feng shui philosophy, mainly as some activating metals like iron can distort or amplify the earth's natural magnetic field and enhance the effects of any electrical devices in the room.

Milano Wooden Headboard

Lose The Gadgets!

Modern families have all kinds of electronic devices, including smart speakers, televisions, PCs and laptops, and smartphones.

These emit radio waves that can disturb your sleep and even cause health problems (see below). So, cover up your TV or hide it in a TV cabinet, invest in a wind-up alarm clock and leave your phone downstairs, and switch off anything that can be switched off.

Balance The Elements

Good feng shui always includes the five elements in some form or other. That means wood, fire, earth, metal and water should be represented somehow. You can do this using colour, texture, ornaments, and shapes.

Each element has its own properties and is neutralised or strengthened by another element, meaning that everything is held in balance.

Here are some possible items for you to introduce for each one:

  • Metal - Associated with love, wealth, health and mental clarity. You don't necessarily need actual metal items to balance this element, simply add metallic tones like silver and gold. You can also add wind chimes and bells, but place them where they can swing freely without knocking against anything that will dampen the sound.
  • Water - Associated with purity, the flow of emotion, movement, prosperity and abundance. Place images of water, like paintings or photos (not stormy seas!), the colour blue, and curved shapes like waves around the room. Water features are not recommended as they evoke too much yang energy. And for this reason, it's best to limit how much water is represented - water quenches fire (passion) which could be bad news for your romantic life!
  • Wood - Associated with health, creativity, new life, growth and expansion. A single houseplant would do the trick, or you might introduce the colour green. A 'lucky bamboo' or a jade money tree would be perfect for the job, but avoid fake plastic plants as they attract stagnant energy.
  • Fire - Associated with passion, creativity, fame and action. Use the colour red sparingly in bedroom feng shui, as fire is a powerful element that can get out of control very quickly! A few red ornaments or accessories would be enough to represent this element.
  • Earth - Associated with grounding and security in business and personal relationships. Use natural crystals or earth tones like brown or cream around your bedroom to represent these qualities.

If you can represent all of these elements in your bedroom you will create a balance between them that improves the energy and atmosphere.

Source: https://stock.adobe.com/uk/images/wu-xing-china-is-five-elements-philosophy-with-fire-earth-metal-water-and-wood-icon-sign-in-circle-loop-star-chart-vector-design/371445528

Mirrors In The Bedroom

This is something of a controversial point; ask one feng shui expert and they'll say "avoid mirrors in the bedroom!". Ask another and they'll say that it's fine!

Those who are against mirrors in the bedroom state that they promote too much yang energy, which represents movement. What you need, they say, is more yin, connected with being at rest. Some also believe that mirrors draw in negative energy from outside the house and trap it inside.

The best way to overcome this is to use a round mirror that's not in the direct sight line of the bed. Ideally, place the mirror on a wall opposite the window to amplify the natural light. Alternatively, attach the mirror to the inside of a closet door.

If you have a dressing table with a mirror, don't panic! Try to arrange the furniture placement so that dressing tables don't face north or east. If this isn't possible, you can always cover the mirror while you are sleeping.

Bakersfield Grey Antique French Style Dressing Table Set

Paintings & Photographs

You don't have to be an interior designer to know that art and photos bring happiness and joy, but some paintings and photos can be bad for the feng shui in your bedroom.

For example, it's best to keep family photos in other rooms, although a couple of favourites won't hurt.

One extremely important feng shui tip is to avoid keeping photos (or any other mementoes) connected with ex-partners, as these can seriously affect your current relationship status by keeping you from developing as a couple.

All artwork should ideally be soft and balanced; a calming landscape or still life, abstract art in pastel colours that are not challenging or harsh. Needless to say, avoid dark and brooding artwork that can be oppressive, or garish colours that stimulate the brain!

General Feng Shui Bedroom Rules

All of the above advice is worth taking note of, but there are many other elements to keep in mind, so here are a few to consider:

  • Avoid having sharp corners and angles in the bedroom if possible, especially on the bedside table, as these promote threatening energy.
  • Avoid having large, looming pieces of furniture, as this can block the positive energy flow.
  • Don't hang plants or ornaments over your bed as this can cause subconscious blocks as you sleep.
  • Invest in a king or queen-sized bed if possible as this helps the chi to flow.
  • Choose the colour scheme carefully! It's a good idea to use Bagua, or energy map. These guide you as to the best colours to use in each room to encourage positive energy.
  • Don't store items under the bed. If you have a box spring bed with storage built in, that's fine, but clutter under the bed will inhibit the energy.
  • Open blinds, curtains and windows as much as possible to allow fresh air and energy in.

Applying these rules to your bedroom will help to balance the flow of energy, leading to a better night's sleep.

Source: https://stock.adobe.com/uk/images/white-table-shelf-with-bagua-and-pebble-stone-white-minimalist-living-room-with-fireplace-and-pouf-zen-concept-interior-design-feng-shui-template-idea-background/479790443

Does Feng Shui Work?

If you're asking, is there absolute scientific proof that it works? then the answer is no. There is no scientific basis for claiming that chi exists, or that by placing objects in different places we can improve our state of mind, health, and daily lives.

But if you ask instead, do people really benefit from bedroom feng shui? then the answer is a resounding YES!

Contrary to what many people believe, feng shui is not a religion, nor is it a system of interior design. There are also a lot of contradictions; a certified feng shui consultant might recommend the exact opposite of some of the tips we've put together here! On the other hand, most feng shui experts would agree with our advice.

Psychology

Whether you believe in the spiritual or metaphysical side of feng shui or not, it can have a powerful psychological effect that can make a real difference. The human mind is a powerful machine - much more powerful than you probably imagine. We are influenced and affected by all kinds of events throughout the day. Our subconscious mind is constantly absorbing data that we are not even aware of in everyday life. All of this information can affect us so much that it displays itself in physical ways.

Discover our Estelle French Furniture Collection

Electronics

Some feng shui principles are based on common sense: too many electronic gadgets in your room will most definitely affect you in some way. All electronic items emit an electromagnetic field (EMF). And the closer you are to your bed, the more you'll be affected. A high EMF can cause feelings of paranoia, depression, skin rash, nausea, fatigue, heart palpitations, digestive problems and trouble concentrating.

Of course, they didn't have smartphones, OLED TVs or laptops in ancient China, so this is a very recent addition to feng shui bedroom rules. Even so, it's a good idea to remove as many of these from your bedroom as possible.

Feng Shui Bedroom Rules With HomesDirect365

If you want to implement feng shui principles in your own bedroom, this guide will set you in the right direction.

Don't get too caught up in the rights and wrongs - the main thing is that you feel comfortable with your feng shui bedroom layout.

And if you want to introduce any new furniture to boost the chi in your bedroom, HomesDirect365 has a fantastic collection of furniture and accessories that are perfect for the job!

Bedroom Feng Shui Rules was originally seen on https://homesdirect365.co.uk



from Homes Direct 365 | Blog - Feed https://www.homesdirect365.co.uk/blog/2023/05/bedroom-feng-shui-rules/

Wednesday 3 May 2023

29 Bedroom Organization Ideas

Your bedroom is your sanctuary. It is the place where you let the stresses of the day fall off you and it is also the place where you get yourself ready to face a new one. But bedrooms can easily fall into the trap of being a dumping ground where chaos reigns supreme. Getting on top of your bedroom organization can help you to relax, sleep better, and start the day off right.

Even if you have a small bedroom, there are lots of tips and tricks that you can use to get your bedroom organised so that it is a calm and comfortable space. Let's take a look at some brilliant bedroom organization ideas that you can implement right away.

Bedroom Organization

Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/interior-of-children-bedroom-with-wooden-furniture-and-toys-and-globe-placed-on-shelves-in-room-3932930/

Take stock before you start

There are a tonne of clever storage solutions and organization ideas that will do wonders for your bedroom but before you start bringing these in, it is always a good idea to take stock and see what your current situation is.

Declutter

Most people are guilty of keeping too many things in the bedroom. It is all too easy to shove stuff in the bottom of the wardrobe that in all likelihood will never see the light of day again. And these extra bits and pieces will contribute to your bedroom feeling cluttered and can interfere with the organization ideas that you use.

So before you start reorganising, it is always a good plan to declutter first. If you are feeling overwhelmed there are lots of methods you could use to make the decluttering easier. It can be helpful, for example, to separate your items into categories. Use a separate container for each category and go through your entire bedroom.

  • Put away - these are items that have been left out and need to be put back in their home
  • Mend - these are items that need something fixed on them before they can be put away
  • Donate/sell - these are items that you no longer need but are in good enough condition to donate or sell on
  • Recycle - these are items that can't be donated but that can be recycled
  • Bin - these are items that need to be put in the bin or taken to the tip

Specifically for the clothes in your wardrobe, if you are lacking in closet space it is highly likely that there are clothes in there that you can donate or sell. We are all guilty of keeping items of clothing for "just in case" but, realistically, we probably won't wear them again. Try to fill a black bag with items from your wardrobe that you won't wear or, if you are happy to leave your bedroom organisation for a few months, you could try the hanger method.

For the hanger method, you turn all of the clothes in your wardrobe so that the hangers are facing the wrong way. Then every time you wear an item of clothing and put it back, place the hanger the correct way. After a few months, donate or sell the items whose hangers never got turned.

Source: https://pixabay.com/photos/clutter-youth-room-messy-a-mess-560701/

Assess your furniture

One of the big factors that can make a bedroom feel like a cluttered mess can simply be the furniture you have and how it is arranged. Think about how the room needs to be used. Do you have walkways that are easy to navigate to take you to the areas that you need to use? Is your furniture the right size for the room? Do you have any unnecessary pieces that aren't helping your room feel organised or together?

Now is your time to change the major changes to your room layout before you start bringing in your organization ideas. Maybe you won't even need any or maybe you'll need different ideas than you originally thought you did.

Think vertically

A small bedroom can be challenging and when you're taking stock, it can be difficult to imagine how to organise it and save space. Bedrooms have multiple loses and there is a limit to how much you can declutter and still keep all of your necessary items.

One technique that can truly help to make a smaller space feel less cluttered is to make the most of the vertical space. Anything that can be brought up off the floor will create empty space on the floor which will help the room feel larger and less full. You will see these vertical space ideas crop up in a lot of our bedroom organization tips and they work very well.

Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/z9B8TW7ZNx0

A place for everything and everything in its place

Many of the good ideas here for bedroom organization focus on the idea that every item you own should have an assigned home. Without one, they are likely to migrate around the room and before you know it, your bedroom is messy and disorganized.

When you are taking stock with these bedroom organization ideas to hand, think proactively about the items that you have in your bedroom. Write a list of them and specifically assign each item to a storage area. That way, keeping your bedroom organized will be a breeze.

Bedroom organization ideas

Now you've taken stock of your bedroom as it is and decluttered and/or made any changes to your furniture, you can start thinking about how to get the room organized. The solutions that work for you will depend on your room, the items that you own, and your own sense of style, but there is definitely something for everyone!

Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/7pCFUybP_P8

Under-bed storage

Your bed is a treasure trove of extra storage space if you want it to be. You have the entire footprint of your bed to store items that you don't want out on display. These could be things like shoes, off-season clothes, beauty appliances, sentimental items, and more. Utlising your bed storage can be one of the easiest ways to get your bedroom organized.

Rolling storage boxes

Under-bed storage boxes are a great solution for putting things away and keeping them organised. These rolling options are perfect for easy access to your items and for convenient tidying away. They can be used for anything you like, from sheets and bedding to beauty appliances and hats, and pretty much anything you can think of.

Source: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/77405687338293799/

Under-bed shoe storage

Shoes are a tricky item to store away neatly and even a shoe rack can start to look messy quite quickly. Under-bed shoe storage means that you can still keep all of your shoes but they won't make your bedroom untidy. And we all know that shoes can be one of the biggest offenders when it comes to making a bedroom disorganized.

Source: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/89790586312690945/

Ottoman bed

If you are in the market for buying a new bed and you want to make your bedroom more organised, then an ottoman bed can be a great investment. The entire mattress frame lifts up to reveal a huge amount of hidden storage space. These beds are especially useful in small spaces but they can also help larger bedrooms feel neater and more organised.

The world is your oyster with what you can store in an ottoman bed but they can take larger items as well as smaller ones, which can make a huge difference in terms of freeing up space in your bedroom.

Valentina Silver Crushed Velvet Ottoman Bed

Ottoman

If you don't want to buy a whole ottoman bed, adding a storage ottoman can really extend your storage opportunities. They essentially extend the end of your bed and the seat lifts up. Ottomans are great for storing blankets, pillows, sheets, etc, if you don't have a linen closet. But you can essentially put whatever you like in them. Plus, they are handy for sitting on to put on your socks! And they can be an extra element of decoration if you add some attractive throw pillows.

Silver Crushed Seville Storage Ottoman

Platform bed

Did you always want a cabin bed when you were a child? You don't have to give up on that dream just because you're now an adult. A platform bed could be just the thing for you. This is one of those storage solutions that may take a little creative thinking but if you're short on space, a platform bed will give you a tonne of extra space to work with. It's taking that idea of storage boxes under your bed to a whole other level and it can look really good.

Source: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/142707881937413629/

Storage bench

Rather than an ottoman at the end of your bed, you can use a similar idea and bring in a storage bench. This would work well as a window seat or in an unused alcove and it gives you an extra spot to neatly place storage boxes so that you can keep your items organised and in their own places. And it is a functional piece of furniture that can help your bedroom be a more comfortable space.

Heritage Storage Bench

Laundry basket

Bedrooms can quickly become chaotic when dirty clothes get strewn around. To keep your space neat, finding a storage solution for your clothes when you take them off is a must. A laundry basket is an easy and convenient way to hide away your clothes before they're washed. And you can easily work the different styles available into your style.

Getting a set of baskets like these can be a great idea because they can have multiple uses. If you like to have throw cushions or extra pillows on your bed but end up throwing them on the floor every night, a basket is an easy way to hide them away from sight.

Set of 3 Anaya Laundry Basket Seagrass

Hanging clothes hamper

If you have a small space, a laundry basket can be just one extra thing cluttering up the floor. This is one of those techniques that use vertical space to help a room feel less cluttered. You could hang the hamper on wall hooks or on the back of your door.

Source: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/207869339043905107/

Blanket rack

If you do have extra blankets on your bed, you don't have to chuck them in a hamper or basket once you're ready to go to bed. You could instead use a blanket rack. This has the added benefit that it will create a beautiful display of your favourite blankets while also keeping your room organized.

Source: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/211174974090061/

Fitted wardrobes

If you aren't lucky enough to own a walk-in closet and you have a bedroom large enough, you can create a similar feel by investing in some fitted wardrobes. These can be floor-to-ceiling to make the most of the vertical space and tailor-made to fit the contours of your room.

The wardrobes can include space for hanging clothes, drawer space, shelf space, and even a dressing table. And once you shut the doors, your room will feel like a neat and tidy space.

Source: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/43276846413847970/

Shelves

Floating shelves

Making the most of your wall space is a great way to make your room feel more organised. And floating shelves can help you do just that. They are sleek and unfussy and will help your space feel more streamlined. A wall shelf helps to draw the eye upwards and helps the room feel more designed.

And they will help you to move more items up to your wall space so that they're not cluttering up your sides. This can be things like photos, artwork, or even jewellery holders. Anything that you want on display but that spills onto your sides and makes them feel messy can be placed on a wall shelf instead.

The higher you put your wall shelf, the more it can help with your bedroom organization because it helps to lift the items away from your more bulky furniture pieces and spreads everything out vertically.

Source: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/239183430200372325/

Built-in shelves

Like built-in wardrobes, built-in shelves take advantage of the architecture you have to make your storage space fit perfectly in your room. These are especially useful if you have tricky areas like alcoves.

These shelves won't impede on the floor space of the room and are perfect for displaying decorative items or for holding storage boxes.

Source: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/58476495154838338/

Corner shelves

If you don't have the space for built-in shelves or you don't want to make that kind of commitment, corner shelves are a great solution. Corners of rooms are pretty unused and, like built-in shelves, corner shelves will take advantage of the shape of your room to free up some extra storage space.

Ealing 4 Shelf Corner Unit

Above door shelf

There are a few ways that you can use shelves to your advantage and one of the clever things you can do, especially if you are dealing with a smaller space, is to place a shelf above your door. This type of wall shelf will keep small items right up and away from your living area so that they don't create any clutter and you can also you use it as an extra place to put decorative pieces that help to tie your room together.

Source: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/722757440218350576/

Wall hooks

This is another of the bedroom organization ideas that takes storage vertically. Wall hooks are more versatile than you may think. Yes, they can be used to hang up your dressing gown, but they can also be used to hang bags, accessories, hats, and more. All of those fiddly little things that can be difficult to store away neatly can be made into a wall display that looks deliberate.

You can even use wall hooks to hang your beauty appliances such as hair-dryer or hair straighteners so that they are easy to access but still kept tidy.

Set of 4 Birdie Wall Hooks

Wardrobe storage

Yes, it's true that once you close the doors of your wardrobe, whatever clutter is inside is hidden away. But thinking carefully about the storage inside your closet space can make a big difference to your bedroom organization.

Hanging closet organizer

A hanging wardrobe organizer could change your bedroom organisation immediately. Without the benefit of a walk-in closet, it can be easy to think of your wardrobe as just a place for hanging clothes but it can be much more than that.

Those fiddly little items that are difficult to store? They can be neatly put away in a hanging organizer. You will feel so much better once everything has its designated home in your wardrobe. And it will help you to stay organized too.

Source: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/425449496060325254/

Hanging closet shoe storage

Shoe storage can be one of the most tricky organization elements to handle. Shoes can't easily be put away, they don't stack, they take up a lot of room, and they can very easily become one big pile of mess. A simple hanging shoe storage organizer can make organising your shoes much easier and instantly help your wardrobe feel less cluttered. You could even place it on the back of your closet door to ensure that you have easy access to all of your shoes.

Source: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/41165784074543651/

Tension rod shoe rack

Like built-in wardrobes and shelves, a tension rod shoe rack makes the most of the architecture of your bedroom. Wherever you have a little alcove that isn't getting much use, you can use tension rods to create a shoe storage solution that looks great and keeps your bedroom organized. We all know that storing shoes can be a pain, so why not have them all out on display but neatly so that they look great?

Source: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/1266706137961365/

Tension rod scarves rack

If you are a scarf person, you know the pain of trying to keep them stored nicely while also being able to access them easily. You can use tension rods to create a rack so that all of your beautiful scarves are on display but in a neat and organised way.

You may only need one bar for this, so your scarves rack could easily fit above one of your pieces of furniture.

Source: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/401313016792411279/

Bedside table

Your bedside table doesn't have to just be a table. Make the most of this piece of furniture by choosing one with lots of drawers. Otherwise, the area underneath the table is just wasted space. You can use the drawers for all of those small items that end up making the table look messy such as chargers, books, and beauty products. Or you could even use them as more storage for your clothes. These smaller drawers would work well for storing underwear and socks.

Antique French Style White Finished 3 Drawer Bedside

Bedside wall shelf

If you don't have space for a bedside table, for example, if your side of the bed is up against a wall, a bedside wall shelf is a great way of helping you stay organised. You can place your watch, phone, and other small items on the shelf every night so that they have their own specific place to live. And it will keep them easy for you to access whenever you need them.

Source: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/571183165375058560/

Dressing table

Yes, adding a dressing table will mean that you have less floor space but in terms of bedroom organization, it can make a massive difference. Having a designated spot for your makeup vanity, beauty products, beauty appliances, hair products and appliances, and more will mean that your room makes sense which will help it to feel more organized.

And, again, if you choose a dressing table that has drawers that will give you more storage again for storage without taking up too much space.

Bakersfield Grey Antique French Style Dressing Table Set

Drawer organizers for accessories

Accessories can easily start to take over a dressing table so it is a good idea to put them away in a drawer. But the last thing you want is a drawer that's overrun with a big mess of accessories all thrown in together. Investing in a drawer organiser/divider can be a great way of keeping everything organised.

Source: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/543246773813305545/

Makeup storage

And that brings us on nicely to makeup storage. Makeup can be the bane of anyone who is trying to implement bedroom organization ideas. It gets everywhere, the different products are different sizes and shapes so can't be stacked, and it gets used frequently so it can't be stored away entirely. Finding a workable storage system for your makeup will make such a difference to how organized your bedroom feels.

Makeup drawer inserts

Drawer inserts are a quick and easy way of getting your makeup organized. They section off your drawer so that different products can be put in different places and it keeps the makeup from turning into one big pile of stuff. Plus it keeps it easy to access so that you can easily find the products that you need.

If you have a dressing table, dedicating one of the drawers to makeup can be a good idea. Otherwise, you could use a drawer on your bedside table or even your chest of drawers.

Source: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/19351473388635153/

Table top makeup organizer

If you don't have the extra drawer space, you can buy a specific tabletop makeup organizer. These will have multiple drawers and shelves that you can use to separate your products to keep everything neat and tidy. And you will easily be able to access your products whenever you need them.

Source: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/322711129564950889/

Rolling carts

Rolling carts are one of those good ideas that it's hard to believe you didn't think of sooner. Being able to move the cart around instantly gives you more room whenever you need it but it also means that you can bring the items to where they are needed all in one go. If the items you are storing on your rolling cart don't get used every day, you could even move into a guest bedroom when it isn't needed to free up even more space.

Rolling carts are ideal for makeup storage, as well as skincare products, books, jewellery, accessories, hair pieces and products, toiletries, and more.

Naples White Serving Cart / Side Table

Wall decor

If you get clever with your wall decor, you can use it to help your bedroom stay organized while also looking stylish. For example, a classic stag head wall decoration can also double up as the perfect jewellery storage solution. And it will add a touch of fun and irony to your room.

Large Stag Head

Bin

This might seem obvious but don't forget to have a bin in your bedroom. All these ideas for bedroom organization are great but if you end up with bits of rubbish lying around, your room will always feel messy. Aim for a bathroom bin size and style as this will slot in nicely and not take up too much space but it will also make sure that any rubbish can be thrown away conveniently.

Source: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/943715296903151073/

Drawer organizers for clothes

We've covered using drawer organizers for makeup, accessories, and small items s but they can also work very well to help organize your clothes. No matter how neatly you fold your laundry, it only takes one day of rushing to get ready for the drawer to get all pulled out with clothes spilling everywhere.

A drawer organizer will help to keep your clothes organized and will also mean that they are it is easier for you to find the things that you need in a hurry.

Source: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/770045236307312131/

The bottom line

Organizing a bedroom is no mean feat and for many of us, it is the room that can get cluttered and messy most easily. Implementing these bedroom organization ideas can help you to have clear and assigned spots for all of your belongings so that your bedroom stays neat, tidy, and a comfortable place to be. Whether you have a big bedroom or a smaller bedroom, you can have an organised space with a bit of thought and creativity.

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from Homes Direct 365 | Blog - Feed https://www.homesdirect365.co.uk/blog/2023/05/bedroom-organization-ideas/

Wednesday 26 April 2023

The best ghost chairs you can buy right now

When you hear the term "ghost chair", you could be forgiven for thinking this is an item to look into for Halloween. But, in fact, ghost chairs are a modern furniture classic that took the interior design world by storm back in 2002, and their popularity shows no sign of waning any time soon.

Since the original Kartell Louis Ghost Chair first appeared, it has spawned a huge number of different takes on the design with varying styles, colours, and at different price points. So if you're looking for the perfect ghost chair to fit your style, Homesdirect365 has the ultimate guide to the best ghost chairs available right now.

What is a ghost chair?

The original Kartell Louis Ghost Chair was designed by Phillippe Starck in 2002. It pays homage to a classic of the design world - the Louis XVI chair. Louis XVI was king of France and Navre from 1774 to 1791 and was married to Marie Antoinette. It was her that commissioned the design of a new style of furniture.

As was fashionable at the time, this furniture was inspired by Ancient Greece and Rome and differed from the style of furniture in Louis XV's time which was much more ornate and intricate. In particular, the Louis XVI chair has stood the test of time as a true classic in furniture.

It is characterised by straight lines inspired by Greco-Roman art, tapered straight legs that are reminiscent of columns, armrests, and a medallion back. And it is these elements that Phillippe Starck showcased with his Kartell Louis Ghost Chair.

The ghost chair is in the style of a Louis XVI chair but is made entirely of transparent polycarbonate plastic. In fact, it is one of few plastic chairs like this that is made by injecting the plastic into a single mould.

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Why are ghost chairs so popular?

When it was released the Kartell Louis Ghost Chair captured the imagination of many people, interior designers and home-owners alike. And there are quite a few reasons for this.

The transparency

The mix of old and new or "baroque revisited" truly captures the imagination due to the transparent nature of the chair. This is such an interesting design and mixed with the classic Louis XVI styling makes the chair unique.

But what it also means is that ghost chairs are versatile. They can sit in a wide range of different decor and go perfectly well. And they also work in a variety of different rooms. They are just as perfect in a dining room as they are in a living room or a bedroom.

This versatility means that a ghost chair is something that will stand the test of time. Even as your design aesthetic may change, your ghost chair will be one piece that can always help to elevate it.

It also makes them ideal for smaller spaces. The transparency means that they take up very little visual space so they can help a smaller area feel larger and mean that you can have furniture in the space without making it more cluttered.

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Its durability

The Kartell Louis Ghost Chair was specifically designed to be used as an outdoor as well as an indoor chair. Because it is made of plastic from a single mould, there are no joints that could warp or crack. So these chairs are truly weather resistant. It might feel odd to place such an expensive chair in an outdoor environment, but it is what they were designed to be able to do.

They are also wipe-clean and they are stackable up to six high. So while these chairs are at a higher price point, their versatility and durability can make them a worthwhile investment. And it also means that you can put them to use in different areas at different times, depending on your needs.

15 ghost chairs that are available right now

Since the original ghost chair, there have been a wide variety of designs that take a nod to the style but can also take it in different directions. Let's take a look at some of the best ghost chairs out there.

Kartell Louis Ghost Chair

This is the original ghost chair in all its glory. In the Louis XVI style, it is weather resistant, stackable, and endlessly versatile. This chair will make a bold statement but in a subtle and clever way. The transparency makes it perfect for smaller rooms while the clean lines and classic design with a modern twist mean that it will work with a wide variety of different design themes. 

Made by injecting polycarbonate into a single mould, it is durable enough for both indoor and outdoor use and it is stackable. This is a versatile piece of furniture that can have multiple uses which can change over time. It is definitely a worthwhile investment for any modern interior design aficionado. 

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Kartell LouLou Ghost Chair

If you love the design of the original ghost chair and have small children, you kind of have to pick up one of these. Kartell has brought out a baby version of the original Louis ghost chair and it is adorable! It uses the same clean lines as the parent chair and it comes in a range of fun colours.

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Kartell Victoria Ghost Chair

The success of the original Louis XVI ghost chair inspired this spin-off - the Victoria ghost chair. It is a Kartell original and designed by Phillippe Starck and is similar in many ways to the Louis version. It is also made of single injection moulded transparent polycarbonate and takes its inspiration from neoclassical design.

It differs in that it follows more of a Baroque style of chair. Baroque was an earlier 17th Century style that was all about grandeur and elegance. Typically, the chairs would have a similar medallion back to the Louis XVI chairs but they didn't have armrests and this can be seen in the Victoria ghost chairs.

This chair is ideal for a dining room because its lack of armrests means that it can easily fit under a table. Although, like its Louis counterpart, it can be used indoors, outdoors, or wherever you fancy. It also comes in a variety of different shades if you don't want the original clear plastic.

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Kartell Charles Ghost Chair

Another Kartell take on the ghost chair designed by Phillippe Starck, the Charles ghost chair is a bar stool that takes its inspiration from the shape and form of classic 1980s bar stools. This gives it a touch of fun and whimsy while the transparent plastic design brings it firmly into the modern age.

As with the other Kartell ghost chairs, what's truly brilliant about the Charles ghost chair is its versatility. Again, it is cast from a single mould so works great outside as well as inside, and it also comes in three different heights. So no matter the height of your kitchen table, bar, dining table, patio table, etc, you can find a Charles ghost chair that will slide under it perfectly.

As with the other Kartell ghost chairs, you can go with a classic transparent look or a variety of different colours.

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Fevilady Dining Chair

Like the original ghost chairs, this chair is made through one-piece moulding, which makes it extremely durable. And it is in a very different design. Its S-shaped curve is decidedly modern, without the nod to antiquity that you see in the original. So it would suit a very modern interior. It is made of acrylic and comes in a variety of colours.

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Flash Furniture Four Pack

These are a bit of a dupe of the original Louis ghost chair but at a much lower price point. They don't have armrests but do have the classic medallion back and are in a clear plastic. They come in a pack of four and are stackable up to seven so work well as occasional chairs as well as daily chairs.

While these might not be exactly the same as the original, they are close enough to hit those same design aesthetics and will work perfectly to give you that extra pop of style. They are made of polycarbonate from single mould injection just like the original so can be used as outdoor chairs as well as indoor chairs.

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BE Furniture Clear Umbria Chair

This chair takes the idea of a clear plastic ghost chair and adds a new design spin to it. Rather than taking inspiration from antiquity, this chair is taken in a new style direction. It is a bucket chair and has a unique tree root-style cut-out design. This design makes these chairs eye-catching and interesting and the cut-outs add to the transparent ghost feel.

These chairs can be used indoors, outdoors, as dining room chairs, or living room chairs. They are also ideal for businesses such as restaurants and salons. They have rubber feet to protect your floor and they are stackable.

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ThickValley Household Transparent Backrest Dining Chair

If you want to take minimalism a step further, this chair could be a great option. It strips down the chair design to just the seat and a curved leg frame. It has a few flurries added as could be while still being a functional chair. And it looks super modern and sleek.

Unlike the other ghost chairs that we have looked at, this isn't purely made of plastic. The seat part is injection moulded polycarbonate but it is attached to wooden legs that are covered in chrome. So it isn't fully transparent and may be less durable outdoors because of the joints.

With that being said, those downsides could well be worth it because this chair will work in so many different contexts. It can be an office chair, dining chair, or a living room chair. And it will fit with a wide variety of different decor.

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Discount Seller STEIN Chair

This is another take on the classic ghost chair design. It uses similar clean lines and modern shapes to create a chair that will add a touch of style to any room.

It has no armrests so will work great as a dining chair and it has tapered legs that help it to feel truly contemporary. It is also backless which makes it even better for smaller spaces because it helps the chair to take up even less visual space.

Its lower price point does mean, however, that it isn't made from a single mould. The legs are affixed to the seat, which can make it less durable and does slightly spoil the ghost chair illusion. But, overall, this chair can help to give you that look.

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European Palace Dining Chair

While many of the Kartell ghost chair-inspired designs we have looked at have gone further down the modern path with their style, this chair goes in the opposite direction. The original Louis ghost chair took a minimalist nod to Louis XVI style chairs whereas this one adds back in some of the more ornate elements that you might see on a true antique.

It has intricate "carvings" along the top of the medallion back as well as down each of the legs but it still does retain that modern twist with the clear plastic. Like the original, it is made using a single mould so is suitable for both outdoor and indoor use. The single mould also helps to create the ghost chair illusion and that works very well with this chair.

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LeisureMod Adler Mid-Century Modern Dining Side Chair in Clear

This chair is a lovely Mid-Century Modern take on the ghost chair. And that's what's so great about ghost chairs - they can take any era of furniture design and elevate it. It is an endlessly versatile design that can be changed over and over again.

It uses simple, clean, gentle curves to create a stylish chair that will work well with a variety of different room designs. Like the original Kartell ghost chair, it is made from single injection moulding so is durable and suitable for outdoor and indoor use. It is also stackable.

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Yaocong Transparent Crystal Chair

A classic country dining chair is a design classic and, like the other ghost chairs we've covered, this one takes those design elements and puts a modern twist on it. It has the same structure as you would expect from a country dining chair but is made of a clear plastic. These would work great in any modern kitchen or dining room.

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ThickValley Transparent Backrest Ghost Chairs

This is a different take on a ghost chair than the others we have looked at. The legs and frame are wooden and it has a separate clear plastic sheet and clear plastic backrest. The minimalist design of the chair and lots of open space means that it fits just as well in a small space as a true ghost chair but the wooden legs give it a warmer feel.

Because it isn't single injection moulded, this chair won't be as durable outside as a classic ghost chair but its lack of armrests means that it will work well as a dining or office chair.

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RR-YRA Color Transparent Folding Chair

While ghost chairs can be ideal for smaller rooms because, visually, they don't take up much space, they do still have the same footprint as a normal chair. This folding version is a great option if you need to free up space when you aren't using the chair.

The seat and backrest are made of polycarbonate and the frame is chrome so it has the same modern look as a classic ghost chair but it is portable and can be put away completely.

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Transparent Stool Household Backrest Crystal Chair

Ghost chairs look amazing and they are surprisingly comfortable but, of course, they don't have any cushioning. If you want a nod at the ghost chair look but with some extra comfort, this chair is a great option.

The frame is made from clear plastic and it has glamorous crystal-style detailing on the legs but it does have a white cushion on the seat. While this means that it doesn't have the full ghost illusion, the white is neutral enough that the look still works.

Because of the cushioning, this chair isn't as durable outdoors as many of the others that we have looked at but it works well as a dining, office, or living room chair.

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The bottom line

Ghost chairs are a modern design classic for a reason. They have a unique style that is a fascinating mix of classic and modern stand out while also blending in. And their chameleon-like nature means that they are an investment that will work in different rooms, with different decor choices, and at different times. This is a chair that can grow with you and will soon become a key design element of any space in which it is placed.

The following article The best ghost chairs you can buy right now was first seen on www.homesdirect365.co.uk



from Homes Direct 365 | Blog - Feed https://www.homesdirect365.co.uk/blog/2023/04/the-best-ghost-chairs-you-can-buy/