Some people mistakenly think that Bentwood is the name of a chair manufacturer, yet it is actually a type of chair that is made by bending the wood to the correct shape to make a chair. The very first Bentwood chair was said to be made by an Austrian cabinet maker by the name of Michael Thonet in Vienna in the 1850s.
How are Bentwood chairs made?
After selecting and preparing the wood, it is steam-treated and bent into shape, then when the right shape is achieved, the wood is cooled and it remains in that shape. Thonet experimented many times using various forms of heat before eventually stumbling on steam, which made the wood pliable without splintering. Thonet tried many different ways including veneer and glue and while he saw some benefits, steam-heating the wood turned out to be perfect.
Keeping it in the family
Thonet enlisted the help of his sons who carried on developing this amazing process and like most things, you more you do it, the better you become. They were very industrious and within a few years, Bentwood factories emerged across Europe and new designs were created, including chairs made with slats that had flowing lines. It wasn’t only aesthetically pleasing, Bentwood chairs were very comfortable and most importantly, large pieces of wood were not required to create curved shapes. The iconic No 14 chair was designed by Michael Thonet in 1859, which quickly became the first mass-produced chair, as it was relatively easy to make.
Popular bar furniture
Bentwood chairs became very popular in bars and restaurants, mainly due to the added comfort and the elegant look. Customers were very impressed with this style of seating and that made Bentwood furniture very popular in homes all over Europe. Here in Australia, homeowners prefer rattan Bentwood chairs because they are very durable and can withstand the harsh Aussie climate. If you would like to view a wide range of rattan Bentwood furniture, start with a Google search and you will find leading Australian suppliers that offer the best quality items.
Mass production
The Thonet family constructed a new factory in the Moravian Forest and separated the construction process into different parts; men did the steaming and bending while women handled the artistic side and finished off the chairs with sanding and applying varnish. Click here for top-rated designs for outdoor spaces.
Kit form manufacturing
One of the Thonet sons was a very clever chap and he worked out a way to ship the chairs in kit form and the retailer could assemble the chairs when the kits arrived. In 1857, the factory produced 10,000 units per year, which grew to an amazing 1.8 million in 1913.
The Thonet family set their sights high and together, they created a global network of retailers to market their furniture, publishing catalogues in several languages. The business was so successful, they created a global marketplace and struggled to keep up with demand, opening new factories as they were needed. Bentwood furniture far exceeds Australian standards, which is why they are so popular for garden furniture.
Natural light is crucial for our health and well-being, influencing everything from our mood to our productivity. Despite this, many of us spend most of our time indoors, often in spaces that are poorly lit. Insufficient natural lighting can lead to various issues, including eye strain, lack of energy, and even depression. If your home feels dark and dreary, you’re not alone. Many homeowners face the challenge of inadequate natural lighting, which can make living spaces feel cramped and uninviting. The good news is that there are numerous ways to brighten your home and make the most of the natural light available. In this article, we’ll share expert tips to help you transform your living spaces into bright, airy, and welcoming environments.
Opt for Light-Colored Paints and Finishes
One of the simplest and most effective ways to increase natural light in your home is to use light-colored paints and finishes. Lighter colors, such as white, cream, and pastel shades, reflect more light than darker ones, making rooms appear brighter and more open. Painting your walls and ceilings in these colors can significantly enhance the brightness of your space.
In addition to wall colors, consider using glossy or semi-gloss finishes, which can reflect light more effectively than matte finishes. These finishes create a subtle sheen that helps bounce light around the room. By opting for a light and airy color palette, you can make even the darkest rooms feel brighter and more inviting.
Install Larger Windows for Enhanced Light
Larger windows can dramatically increase the amount of natural light that enters your home, creating a brighter and more inviting atmosphere. In addition to the aesthetic and practical benefits, choosing the right windows is crucial, especially in regions with harsh weather conditions. If you’re considering upgrading your windows, ALCO Impact in the Greater Miami area offers comprehensive services to ensure your home is equipped with the most durable and stylish products on the market.
They specialize in impact windows and doors, making them an excellent choice for homeowners in coastal climates like South Florida. These impact-resistant windows are designed to withstand strong winds and flying debris, providing you with peace of mind during stormy weather.
Add Skylights and Solar Tubes for Upper-Level Lighting
Skylights and solar tubes are fantastic solutions for bringing natural light into areas of your home that lack wall space for traditional windows. Skylights are installed in the roof and can flood a room with sunlight from above. They are particularly effective in rooms on the upper floors of your home, such as bedrooms, bathrooms, and attics.
Solar tubes, also known as light tubes or sun tunnels, are another excellent option. These tubes capture sunlight on the roof and funnel it through a reflective tube into your home, providing natural light to otherwise dark areas. Solar tubes are ideal for spaces where traditional skylights may not be feasible, such as hallways, closets, and small bathrooms. Both skylights and solar tubes can significantly enhance the natural light in your home, creating a brighter and more pleasant environment.
Utilize Mirrors to Amplify Light
Mirrors are a powerful tool for maximizing natural light in your home. By strategically placing mirrors in key locations, you can reflect and amplify the sunlight that enters your space. Hang mirrors opposite windows to bounce light around the room, making it feel larger and brighter. Even small mirrors can have a big impact on light distribution.
Consider using mirrored furniture and decor items to further enhance the effect. Mirrored coffee tables, wall art, and even mirrored backsplashes in the kitchen can help reflect light and create a more luminous atmosphere. The key is to position mirrors where they can catch and reflect the most sunlight, effectively doubling the amount of natural light in your home.
By evaluating your current lighting situation, opting for light-colored paints and finishes, installing larger windows, adding skylights and solar tubes, and utilizing mirrors, you can significantly increase the natural light in your home. These expert tips will help you create a brighter, more inviting living space that not only looks better but also feels better.
Trim Trees and Bushes Outside Windows for More Light
Outdoor foliage can significantly impact the amount of natural light that enters your home. Trees, bushes, and other plants near your windows may block sunlight, casting shadows and making your interior spaces feel darker. To maximize natural light, it’s essential to keep these plants well-trimmed.
Start by identifying any trees or bushes that obstruct your windows. Trim back branches and foliage to create clear pathways for sunlight to enter your home. Not only will this increase the natural light, but it can also improve the view from your windows, giving you a better connection to the outdoors. Regular maintenance is key to keeping your outdoor space tidy and ensuring that your windows remain unobstructed year-round.
Choose the Right Window Treatments for Light Control
Window treatments play a crucial role in controlling the amount of natural light in your home. Heavy drapes and curtains can block light, making a room feel dim and closed off. Instead, opt for lighter, more translucent options that allow light to filter through while still providing privacy.
Sheer curtains are an excellent choice, as they diffuse sunlight and create a soft, inviting glow. Blinds and shades can also be effective, especially those made from light materials or in lighter colors. These treatments can be easily adjusted to control the amount of light entering a room. For a versatile option, consider layered window treatments that combine sheer curtains with heavier drapes. This allows you to customize the lighting based on the time of day and your needs.
Keep Windows Clean for Maximum Light Entry
Clean windows are essential for maximizing natural light in your home. Dirt, dust, and grime can accumulate on windows over time, reducing the amount of light that passes through. Regular cleaning ensures that your windows remain clear and allow the maximum amount of sunlight to enter your space.
To clean your windows effectively, use a streak-free window cleaner and a microfiber cloth or squeegee. Start by removing any dust and debris from the window frame and sill, then clean the glass using a circular motion. Keeping your windows clean will not only enhance natural light but also improve the overall appearance of your home.
Conclusion
Maximizing natural light in your home can transform your living spaces, making them brighter, more inviting, and more enjoyable to spend time in. By trimming outdoor foliage, choosing the right window treatments, keeping windows clean, incorporating glass doors and partitions, and rearranging furniture, you can significantly enhance the amount of natural light in your home. These expert tips are practical and easy to implement, helping you create a well-lit, welcoming environment. Embrace the benefits of natural light and start making changes today to enjoy a brighter, healthier home.
This is so exciting..I was named a lifestyle expert in a Rent article on one of my favorite movies…Please read the article below!!
Nancy Meyers, the legendary filmmaker behind beloved movies like Something’s Gotta Give, The Holiday, and It’s Complicated, is celebrated not just for her storytelling but also for the stunning, cozy, and inviting interiors that adorn her films. These beautifully designed spaces have inspired countless viewers to bring a touch of Meyers’ magic into their own homes. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how you can capture the essence of Nancy Meyers’ interiors and replicate them within your living space, whether you’re buying a home in Brooklyn or renting an idyllic Beverly Hills apartment.
1. Embrace a neutral color palette
One of the hallmarks of a Nancy Meyers interior is the use of a neutral color palette. Soft whites, beiges, creams, and muted grays create a serene and sophisticated backdrop that exudes timeless elegance.
Walls and furniture: Opt for neutral shades when choosing paint colors and large furniture pieces like sofas and armchairs. Neutral tones on walls and upholstery create a calm and cohesive look.
Layering: Add depth by layering different textures and shades of neutrals through rugs, cushions, and throws. “Layer plush sofas and armchairs with luxurious velvet and boucle textures for a cozy feel,” Tori Sikkema shares. “Mix a vintage side table with a sleek, modern coffee table to create a timeless yet eclectic look.”
Accents: Soft blues, greens, and pastels can complement the neutral base without overwhelming it, especially through furniture, throw pillows, and decor accents. “Nancy Meyers’ homes are closer to your own home than you think,” Lori Miller, president of LGC Interior Design, notes. “With the casual grace of a rolled arm slipcovered sofa or a large ottoman on casters placed in a formal seating arrangement a living room is magically transformed into a dynamic setting. Her use of coastal colors: denim blues, whites, and lighter wood tones set the stage for comfort and tranquility. Try this in your own home and see how quickly these changes work to create your own designed film set.”
2. Invest in classic, comfortable furniture
Meyers’ interiors are known for their classic yet comfortable furniture. Think plush sofas, overstuffed armchairs, and sturdy wooden tables that invite you to sit back and relax.
Sofas, chairs, and tables: Choose pieces with clean lines and a comfortable, lived-in feel. Linen, cotton, and other natural fabrics work well. As Lori Miller mentioned earlier, a slip-covered sofa can add a touch of casual elegance. Solid wood tables with a slightly distressed finish add warmth and character to your space. Farmhouse-style dining tables and coffee tables with simple designs are perfect as well.
Mix and Match: Don’t be afraid to mix different styles and periods. A blend of traditional and contemporary pieces can add interest and depth to your décor. “Nancy Meyers’ style is not just a trend; it’s a timeless masterpiece of coastal elegance and soulful sophistication,” notes Gigi Day, home décor and lifestyle publisher with Mod Daily. “Combining a palette of shimmering blues, fresh whites, and sandy neutrals, paired with striped patterns and focal point-worthy artwork, creates an inviting home. Giant mophead hydrangeas, well-chosen antiques, and subtle beach-themed accessories complete the look, seamlessly integrating into traditional, contemporary, and modern homes,” Day explains.
3. Pay attention to details
The charm of Meyers’ interiors often lies in the details. “My Nancy Meyers movie, The Holiday showcases the power of details,” Rhegis Morris of The Morris Mansion shares. “She has a supreme talent at making a beautiful home, but what draws me in is her “cozy” factor. Amanda’s Los Angeles mansion is huge, but feels intimate and homey. Iris’s cottage is small, but the coziness comes from the collections around the home giving it that “lived in” feeling,” Morris uncovers. By focusing on thoughtful accessories and personal touches, a space will feel curated and lived-in.
Textiles: Layer your space with soft, inviting textiles like cashmere throws, linen curtains, and plush rugs. Choose materials that are not only beautiful but also comfortable and durable.
Artwork and Decor: Display artwork, family photos, and decorative objects that reflect your personal taste. Antique pieces and heirlooms can add a touch of history and character.
Books: Bookshelves filled with well-loved books contribute to the homey feel of a Meyers-inspired space. Consider adding a reading nook with a comfy chair and good lighting.
4. Focus on the flow, forget trends
A key element of Meyers’ interiors is the effortless flow between spaces, creating a cohesive and harmonious environment.
Consistent style: Maintain a consistent overall style throughout your home to create a seamless transition from one room to the next. This doesn’t mean everything has to match perfectly or that you can’t layer similar design styles, but the overall aesthetic should be cohesive.
Choose timeless, classic pieces: Choosing pieces that stand the test of time will ensure a happier decorating and living experience. “To get this feel for your home, stick with timeless pieces, nothing trendy,” Lacey with Hadley James Lighting shares. “Incorporate some antique and vintage decor for character and charm and use organic textures such as wicker and seagrass. Add plenty of table lamps and accessorize with baskets, fresh flowers or plants, silver or black framed photos and neutral pillows,” Lacey recommends.
5. Draw inspiration from her movies
Before you start redecorating, take a closer look at the specific interiors from Meyers’ films that resonate with you the most. Each movie offers a unique style and feel, which can serve as inspiration for different parts of your home.
Something’s Gotta Give: For a classic, Hamptons-style beach house vibe, draw inspiration from the serene, light-filled spaces with coastal touches. “Nancy Meyers’ movie set style is all about layering different textures,” Alexa Archibald with Charm Lane LLC uncovers. “Consider incorporating natural rattan elements for window treatments and draping cashmere throw blankets over the backs of chairs. The striped rug in the Something’s Gotta Give living room is iconic – don’t shy away from bold patterns to achieve that signature Nancy Meyers look,” Archibald encourages.
The Holiday: “Nancy Meyers’ design style in The Holiday, my all-time favorite movie, is renowned for its cozy, inviting, and timeless charm,” shares Nicole Steinthal. “Emphasizing a blend of cottage and traditional aesthetics, her interiors often feature warm, neutral color schemes with soft blues, creams, and earthy tones. In addition to Iris’ charming English cottage, “The Holiday” also features Amanda’s luxurious California home, which epitomizes modern elegance with a cozy twist,” Steinthal continues. “This home showcases a sleek, coastal-inspired aesthetic with a neutral color palette, incorporating whites, soft grays, and sandy beiges. This contrast between the cozy cottage and the elegant yet welcoming California home highlights Meyers’ versatile design prowess.”
It’s Complicated: “To capture the warm and inviting design style of Nancy Meyers as seen in It’s Complicated, (torrid affair not required) focus on creating a bright and cozy kitchen space with an open layout, “Steve with 101 Movies a Year shares. “Use a neutral color palette with white cabinetry, marble countertops, and warm wood accents. Incorporate vintage-inspired lighting fixtures and a mix of comfortable seating options, like upholstered chairs and a farmhouse table. Add personal touches with fresh flowers, potted herbs, and cozy textiles to make the space feel lived-in and welcoming,” Steve recommends.
Parent Trap: “Creating a home that would make Nancy Meyers swoon is all about mixing different décor styles and incorporating those special one-of-a-kind pieces, which is perfectly exemplified in Elizabeth James’ iconic London townhouse in The Parent Trap,” notes Melissa Townsend with Cerebral Sabbatical. “This European residence seamlessly blends classic elements such as traditional brass fixtures and dark wooden furniture with eclectic touches like the pumpkin-colored walls, reportedly inspired by Lindsay Lohan’s famous hair, and unique oversized sculptures and vases. The real scene stealers are the myriad of mismatched frames, covering nearly every speck of wall space, each showcasing artwork that hints at Elizabeth’s worldly travels and diverse tastes,” Townsend analyzes. Hattie, with Hearth and Craft Co., echoes the influence of the interiors of The Parent Trap on the design world. “The elements of Elizabeth James’ London home from The Parent Trap is one of my all-time favorite interiors from Nancy Meyers films. From the cozy lamp-light-filled rooms, tall ceilings, art and photos framed along the staircase, flower-filled vases, and warm-toned walls with elegant fixtures mixed in with layered textures. Lived in, effortless but elegant – so cozy.”
Father of the Bride: “If you are watching a Nancy Meyers Film, and you don’t know who the filmmaker or director of that movie was, you’d instantly know by the style of the homes/sets she created,” D’Arcy Vandenberg exclaims. “There’s just something so charming about Nancy Meyers’s decorating style. If the home of Father of the Bride didn’t just make you want a traditional white colonial home — classic, timeless, and collected yet still warm and inviting. Her design inspirations are very attainable and curated, beautiful and homey,” Vandenberg explains.
6. Make it personal
Finally, the most important aspect of capturing Nancy Meyers’ interior magic is to make your space uniquely yours. Infuse your home with items that hold personal significance and reflect your lifestyle and preferences.
Personal touches and valued items: Incorporate items that tell your story, whether it’s a vintage piece from a flea market, a handmade quilt, or a collection of travel souvenirs. These items add character and make your home feel truly personal. Another great option is to display collections of items that you love, such as pottery, antiques, or family heirlooms. Grouping these items together can create interesting focal points and conversation starters.
Comfort: Prioritize comfort and functionality to ensure that your home is not just beautiful but also a place where you and your loved ones can truly relax and enjoy. “Outside of the effortlessly cozy feel, I think what we all seem to love so much about Nancy Meyers’ design style is how collected and personalized each space is,” Kayla Breeden Falconer of Kayla’s Kitch and Fix shares. “Instead of trying to replicate interiors she has created, I love to take inspiration from them. Everything in my home is either functional or meaningful (oftentimes both) and I think that’s very important in emulating her style,” Falconer shares. “Overall, your home should be a reflection of where you’ve been, what you love, and who you are, which Nancy Meyers achieves every time.”
Channeling Nancy Meyers: The final flourish
“In Nancy Meyers’ cinematic universe, the homes aren’t mere sets; they’re integral to the narrative, offering glimpses into the characters’ lives that the audience may not otherwise have access to. So, when decorating your own space, forget about copying Pinterest perfection and instead, let your home tell the unique story of who you are,” Melissa Townsend concludes.
Whether you’re redecorating a single room or revamping your entire living space, these tips will help you create an environment that’s both stylish and inviting. Embrace a neutral palette, invest in classic furniture, pay attention to details, and most importantly, make your space personal. With these steps, you can achieve a home that not only looks beautiful but also feels like the perfect retreat – just like the unforgettable settings in Nancy Meyers’ films.
Founded by Megan McClure, an interior designer and entrepreneur with a vision to revolutionize outdoor spaces, Brass Ring Cover Company was established in 2023. Megan noticed that grills, despite being a central feature of outdoor areas, were often overlooked in the design process. Inspired by this gap, she created Brass Ring to blend sophistication and style with durability and functionality.
Elevate Your Outdoor Decor
Brass Ring Cover Company offers a range of products designed to enhance and protect outdoor living spaces, including grill covers, outdoor pillow covers, and dog beds. These products are not only functional but also add a touch of elegance to any outdoor setting.
Grill Covers
The grill covers from Brass Ring Cover are crafted to blend seamlessly with outdoor decor while providing superior protection for your grill. Available in a variety of colors, these covers feature signature brass details and a brass hook, allowing for convenient hanging when the grill is in use. The blend of sophistication and practicality ensures that your grill remains a stylish centerpiece in your outdoor space.
Outdoor Pillow Covers
Outdoor pillow covers from the Brass Ring Cover offer a perfect way to add a splash of color and comfort to your patio or garden. With many color options to choose from, these covers can be mixed and matched to create a vibrant and inviting atmosphere. The durable materials ensure that the pillows withstand the elements, maintaining their beauty and functionality season after season.
Dog Beds
For pet owners, Brass Ring Cover’s outdoor dog beds provide a comfortable and stylish spot for furry friends to relax. Available in various colors, these beds are designed to complement outdoor decor while offering durability and easy maintenance. The brass accents add a touch of elegance, making these dog beds a chic addition to any outdoor space.
At Brass Ring Cover Company, the mission is to innovate and craft high-quality covers that not only meet but exceed customers’ expectations. By delivering products that provide superior protection and durability, Brass Ring ensures customers can rely on them for years to come. The company’s goal is to offer outstanding value and unmatched performance, enhancing the beauty and functionality of outdoor living spaces.
Explore Brass Ring Cover Company’s range of premium products designed to elevate your outdoor experience. With their commitment to quality, style, and longevity, Brass Ring transforms outdoor spaces into elegant and functional retreats. Megan is very talented and is readily avaialbe to help you with all of the fabulous color options and fit for your own covers. You can contact her directly, HERE. Also their instagram has more images of Megan’s cover projects which you can see HERE.
Looking over your garden, perhaps it’s doing its job adequately enough for now, but is it really reaching its full potential? If you think the answer to this question is “no”, when what should you do about it? Here, we’re going to look at five of the upgrades that can help you truly get a lot more from your garden, whether in convenience, lifestyle or other metrics.
If you feel like your garden is, aesthetically, a little bare-looking, then you should look at some landscaping tips that can help you transform it. Creating raised beds, retaining walls, and other landscaped additions will not only help your garden look much better, but it can also organize and separate different parts of the garden so that there is less crossover and it all becomes much easier to take care of.
Add A Swimming Pool
There are few investments that can offer as much utility and relaxation to a garden as bringing in your own pool. Working with the right swimming pool contractors, you can ensure that you get one that fits the space and dimensions of your garden. It can allow you to cool down and relax during the summer and can enable you to stay healthy by making it much easier to swim on a regular basis. Just be sure you’re aware of how much care and investment a pool requires.
Make An Outdoor Living Space
Using a patio or decking, you can create a gorgeous exterior living space that allows you some room to relax, dine, and socialize. This means creating a space that is comfortable, with the right investment in furniture, and soft furnishings, as well as some way to mitigate the effects of the weather, such as awnings. This can help you create a space that’s perfect for eating outdoors, or for inviting your friends over to enjoy the good weather.
Automate Your Irrigation
Perhaps your garden already fulfils what you want it to, in terms of lifestyle, and instead, you want to make it much more convenient. Perhaps instead of watering the garden yourself, you would prefer to watch it take care of itself. An automated irrigation system can be the perfect tool for doing just that, ensuring that your plants receive the right amount of water. Aside from saving you some time, these systems also tend to be better at saving water than doing it by hand, helping you be more efficient.
Add Some Lighting
Both an aesthetic and a practical choice, the right choice of exterior lighting can make a big difference to any garden. Not only will it improve the aesthetics of the space considerably, but it can also allow you to spend more time relaxing outside as it gets darker, and improves safety by making it easier to see steps, inclines, and other potential tripping hazards.
Making the garden fit your needs is all about assessing what you want it to do. The tips above can show you a few directions to achieve what, precisely, you want from your exterior space.
Are you thinking about improving your home but aren’t sure where to start? One of the best ways to give your space a fresh look is by updating your flooring. You might not realize it yet, but new flooring can bring a lot more to your home than just a stylish appearance.
So let’s take a look at some hidden benefits of new flooring that you definitely shouldn’t miss out on!
One of the biggest perks of installing new flooring is that it can significantly boost your home’s value. Whether you plan to sell your house soon or just want to increase its worth, new flooring is a great investment. Potential buyers often look at the condition of the floors first, and having modern, clean floors can really make a difference. Even if you’re not planning to sell, it’s always nice to know that your home is worth more.
Plus, with so many timeless floor designs available, you can choose something that will stay stylish for years to come. Imagine walking into your living room ten years from now and still loving your floor. It’s a great feeling to know that your choice is not only beautiful but also a smart financial move.
Making your rooms feel bigger
Another hidden benefit of new flooring is making rooms feel bigger. It might sound surprising, but the right type of flooring can really open up a space. Lighter-colored floors, for instance, reflect more light and make the room feel more spacious and airy. This is especially useful for smaller rooms or spaces that don’t get a lot of natural light.
When you choose the same flooring for multiple rooms, it creates a seamless look that can make your entire home feel larger and more connected. Imagine walking from the kitchen to the living room without any visual breaks. It’s like your home just expanded without you having to knock down any walls!
Improving comfort and safety
New flooring isn’t just about looks; it can also enhance the comfort and safety of your home. Old, worn-out floors can be uneven and even dangerous, leading to trips and falls. By installing new, even flooring, you’re reducing these risks and making your home safer for everyone, especially kids and elderly family members.
Improving the air quality
Did you know that new flooring can also improve the air quality in your home? Old carpets can trap dust, allergens, and other pollutants, which can be bad news for anyone with allergies or asthma. By replacing old carpets with new ones or opting for hard flooring like wood or tile, you can reduce the amount of dust and allergens in your home.
So, the next time you think about giving your home a makeover, consider starting with the floors. With all these hidden benefits, it’s clear that new flooring is more than just a pretty face. It’s an investment in your home’s value, comfort, and overall happiness. Don’t miss out on these amazing benefits!
