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The Use Of Studs In Furniture
Metallic studs can be found on an array of furniture today, including sofas and chairs. It’s a style trend that has gone in and out of vogue over the years, but is definitely in fashion at the moment. Primarily used around the edges of a seat, they originally had a more functional nature, but now they tend to be used as a decoration in luxurious furniture, evoking a sense of opulence and allure. Examples Of Stools With Studs Ascot Bar Stool White Leather £165 Carlton Scroll Back Stool Grey Velvet £99.99 Ascot Oak Stool Cream Leather £175 Ascot Bar Stool Cream Leather £165 Chiltern Oak Bar Stool Tweed Fabric £179.99 Knightsbridge Oak Stool Grey Fabric £199.99 Ascot Bar Stool Black Leather £165 Ascot Bar Stool Antique Brown £165 Chiltern Bar Stool Black £179.99 Knightsbridge Oak Stool Charcoal Fabric £199.99 Ascot Bar Stool Charcoal Fabric £165 Ascot Bar Stool Tweed Fabric £165 Ascot Bar Stool White Leather £165 Carlton Scroll Back Stool Grey Velvet £99.99 Ascot Oak Stool Cream Leather £175 Ascot Bar Stool Cream Leather £165 Chiltern Oak Bar Stool Tweed Fabric £179.99 Knightsbridge Oak Stool Grey Fabric £199.99 Ascot Bar Stool Black Leather £165 Ascot Bar Stool Antique Brown £165 PrevNext History of Studs Studs started to appear in chair designs during the 17th century. Before then, the frame of a chair was rarely upholstered, instead a loose cushion would be added to a wooden chair for comfort. When the idea of permanent upholstery arrived, studs were used to attach the leather or fabric to the wooden frame. Chair makers often chose to leave them uncovered, and so they became a functional feature that also had a decorative appeal. Traditionally, brass, copper, and pewter were the materials used and the head usually had a round domed shape. Types of Studs Today, studs go by various names, such as tacks, nail heads, and rivets, and there are numerous types with different designs, shapes, and finishes, each suited to different décor and furniture styles. There are high and low domed round designs, square nails with pyramid designs, unique shapes like diamonds and flowers are also used, and some even have decorative patterns engraved in the head. Brass and copper varieties are still popular on vintage-style furniture, as they tend to have a more antiqued finish. Silver, brushed steel, and chrome, are the more popular choice today, and there are also enamelled, and powder coated styles, and even diamante versions are available. These modern types are chosen for their decorative purpose, used to bring a bling-factor to lavish pieces of furniture and create the popular glamorous look. How It's Done There are two ways of fixing the studs in place. They can be nailed in individually, which is good for awkward places like corners and bends, or a strip of studs may be used to give a neat straight line. We use the individual method, ensuring each one is evenly spaced and not too close together as is often found in strips, it also gets a better flow around corners and tight spaces, giving a careful handcrafted touch. During the process, the upholsterer uses a nylon tipped hammer to avoid damage and scratches to the head of the stud. A template or a tool called a quick-nailer is often used to ensure they are of equal height and spacing, but a highly skilled upholsterer may choose to position them by eye. Each one is hammered in through the upholstery and into the wooden frame, and it’s for this reason that studs cannot be applied to metal framed furniture. How We Use Them In Our Designs In many of our fabric bar stools and chairs, we use studs to edge the seat, which is where they would traditionally be seen, but you may also see them on the backrest, for extra elegance, as seen in our Overture Chair. For a real extravagant look, some designers choose to stray from the edge of the seat and even use them to create swirls and patterns in the upholstery. They are a popular addition to chairs and sofas with the classic Chesterfield look, so we often pair stud edging with other traditional features such as button detailing and a scroll back. Take a look at how we use them in our dining chairs below: Examples Of Chairs With Studs Etienne Dining Chair Charcoal Fabric £99.99 Kensington Dining Chair Grey Velvet £139.99 Ascot Oak Dining Chair Charcoal Fabric £175 Ascot Oak Dining Chair Black Leather £175 Knightsbridge Oak Chair Grey Fabric £199.99 Barrington Oak Dining Chair Cream Fabric £139.99 Moreton Dining Chair Charcoal Fabric £59.99 Ascot Dining Chair Charcoal Fabric £165 Ascot Dining Chair Black Leather £165 Utah Dining Chair Pebble Fabric £69.99 Moreton Dining Chair Grey Velvet £59.99 Broadway Oak Chair Grey Fabric £125 Etienne Dining Chair Charcoal Fabric £99.99 Kensington Dining Chair Grey Velvet £139.99 Ascot Oak Dining Chair Charcoal Fabric £175 Ascot Oak Dining Chair Black Leather £175 Knightsbridge Oak Chair Grey Fabric £199.99 Barrington Oak Dining Chair Cream Fabric £139.99 Moreton Dining Chair Charcoal Fabric £59.99 Ascot Dining Chair Charcoal Fabric £165 PrevNext For now, studs are here to stay, so be sure to check out our range and bring an exclusive feel to your interior. 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What Makes This A Festive Kitchen?
As it’s December, we’ve picked out a kitchen that achieves the festive look without using any decorations. What makes it festive? The classic red, green, and white Christmas colour scheme! We all associate these colours with Christmas, and there are dozens of theories and beliefs around why. Here we will discuss the colours and their festive origins, as well as different ways to combine them. Read on to find out what makes this the go to colour scheme, and how you can get the look in your kitchen without all the tinsel and trimmings. Drift Oak & Green Bar Stool & Drift Oak & Red Bar Stool Green In this kitchen, the green bar stools and the pendant lights bring in the colour. Traditional Christmas decorations typically include nature, with the likes of trees, wreaths, and garlands. For thousands of years evergreens and winter plants like fir and pine trees, mistletoe, holly, and ivy, have been used to bring luck and brighten up homes during the dark winter months. Today, the Christmas tree is the most recognisable and popular decoration. Above, you can see how the natural warmth is brought back in with the wooden stool frames and flooring. Red The red in the kitchen above is brought in with the seats of the bar stools, alternating with the green seats to make a chic contrasting arrangement. As a vibrant colour that represents joy and love, it’s no wonder red makes an appearance throughout the festive season, from Rudolph’s nose to candy canes and baubles on the tree. The use of it may have been encouraged by the robes of Saint Nicholas, the basis of the jolly character Santa Claus, who we now know to wear a red hat and suit. Plus, the winter holly plant has red berries alongside its green leaves, making this a natural colour combination that is instinctively pleasing to the eye when used elsewhere. White Of course white plays a huge part in festive winter décor too, often representing snow! The light minimalist kitchen above is predominantly white, creating a blank canvas with pops of colour brought in with the seats, lights, and fresh herbs, making a strong contrast. Almost like a snowy landscape scene with a scattering of winter trees! Signifying positivity and purity, it’s the perfect colour for this time of year. Also found on the trim of Santa’s hat and suit, the angel on the Christmas tree, and the berries of mistletoe, it makes a great accent colour and can be used to calm a bold setting. Red & White As A Combination Not so keen on green? Opt for a softer red and white Christmas theme! As seen in the kitchen below, these colours still makes a bold contrasting statement, but this combination can be used all year round, hinting at festivity and Christmas in December. Get the look by adding red bar stools or dining chairs to your white kitchen, as seen here, or make subtle changes with a kitchen tablecloth and rug. Maybe you could add in festive shades of crockery and kitchen accessories to emphasise the look, or mix it up by introducing silver kitchenware or copper lights for some extra Christmas sparkle. You don’t have to turn your home into Santa’s grotto to get your kitchen into the spirit of the season, simply adapt your colour scheme to achieve some modern merriment! Who would have thought you could achieve a festive Christmas kitchen without decorations! Plus, all of our furniture comes in a huge range of colours, so you can mix and match to suit any season or style. Have a very Merry Christmas from all of us here at Atlantic Shopping! Shop Bar Stools
Are Ornate Chair Legs Making A Comeback?
Whilst antique furniture may be an acquired taste for many of us, their fundamental designs and shapes are often the inspiration for modern pieces we see today. As with clothing, different styles frequently go in and out of fashion, with vintage designs regularly making a comeback, the same can be said for furniture. One example is in chair legs, a simple plain frame is typical of today, but designs influenced by the past are beginning to make an appearance. Traditionally, wooden chairs were hand crafted, focussing on intricate carving on the frame, legs, arms, and back. Today, the seat is seen as the most important feature, with studs, pattern, stitching, and button detailing all taking centre stage, so there is usually a modest leg design as a result. Simple minimalist frames are the norm, with a focus on wood finishes and colours rather than shape and detail. A common belief is that there’s something missing in these designs as Charles H Hayward, an expert on the history of furniture design, suggests: “Much of the furniture created in previous centuries has a charm and dignity largely lacking from most of the mass-produced and machine-made furniture of today.” To counteract this opinion, we strive to bring some of that character and charm back into our designs. Below, we have picked out some of the most renowned antique chair leg designs, discussing their history and how their influence is making its way into our modern-day chairs. Straight Square Leg The original and most basic chair designs of the 16th and 17th century had straight square legs with a plain design, but carved, grooved, and moulded designs became common as chairs increased in popularity in domestic homes. Prior to the 18th century they were found on both the front and rear of the chair, with an upright backrest following the straightness of the frame. The front legs were usually decorated with ornate detail, whilst the rear had little embellishment. Simple Straight Square Leg Carved Straight Square Leg Ornate Straight Square Leg This style went out of fashion when more intricate designs and shapes were introduced, but it became popular again by Thomas Chippendale in the 1700’s. In his designs, Chippendale gave it the name Marlborough leg and often added block feet to the design, it was seen as the alternative to the distinguished cabriole style. Chicago Oak Dining Chair Cream Today, simple and plain straight designs are the most common on modern chairs, forming a solid frame without distracting from the seat. Find it on the front legs of our classics, like the Chicago Oak Dining Chair Cream (pictured above). Cabriole Leg The cabriole leg is a renowned characteristic of Queen Anne Style furniture, which began in 1702 when Queen Anne took to the throne, and is thought to continue into the second half of the century. Encouraging its development, the cabriole also became a staple feature within Chippendale’s chair designs throughout the late 18th century. Intended to resemble the shape of an animal leg when leaping or jumping, the classic shape has an outcurve knee and incurved ankle. Hence the name cabriole – derived from the French word ‘cabrioler’, meaning light leap! Smooth Queen Anne Style Cabriole Leg Cabriole Leg With Claw & Ball Foot Slender Cabriole Leg With Pad Foot There are many variations on the cabriole depending on the origin and year of the design. Smooth weighty legs with pad feet were common on popular wing back chairs of the early Queen Anne Style. Whilst elaborate carved designs with ball and claw feet could be found on decorative side chairs later on. Chippendale produced more slender versions, often with subtle carving and slipper feet, which were generally more delicate than Queen Anne furniture. Present-day cabriole designs tend to be simplified, plain, and without carved detail, in order to follow popular minimalist style. So, in an effort to bring classic antique style into the 21st century we have introduced the sophisticated Fleur Chair (pictured above), which incorporates sleek black satin finished cabriole legs – our own contemporary version. Fluted & Reeded Legs Generally found on variations of round tapered or square tapered legs, fluting and reeding are styles of carving added to chairs for decoration. Fluted Legs - Popular in the late 1700’s and early 1800’s, fluted legs have vertical concave grooves carved into them. Chair designer George Heppelwhite embraced the square tapered style in many of his chairs, which were often plain but many were carved with a fluted design. Square Tapered Fluted Leg Round Tapered Reeded Leg Fluted Leg With Spade Foot Reeded Legs - Similar to fluted, reeded legs have carved detail but instead of concave grooves, they have rounded convex ridges. Also used by Heppelwhite in the late 18th century, Thomas Sheraton adopted the design and encouraged its popularity throughout the 1800’s, making it the preferred choice over fluted. In today’s chairs carved designs are uncommon, but the basic round tapered and square tapered shape is becoming more fashionable, which is a simple smooth version. We are using it more in our modern wooden pieces, for example, the Albany has a sleek round tapered design. (September 2018 - Please note, the Albany has now been discontinued, but the Tate is another great example.) Sabre Leg Made popular in England by furniture designer, Thomas Sheraton, who designed much of the finest furniture in the late 18th century, the sabre leg went on to flourish in the 19th century within Regency Period furniture. Sabre Leg Wtih Tapered Design Classic Plain Sabre Leg Smooth Tapered Sabre Leg A gracefully curved design, it is fashioned to mimic the shape of a sabre sword, which is where the name originates. Often tapering as it meets the floor, the leg flares out at the bottom and can be used on both the front and rear of the chair. A rear sabre leg follows the curve of the backrest, increasing the stability of the chair. Up until the late 1600’s chair makers would use a sloped backrest with a straight frame, before realising a raked design would improve balance. Depending on the date and origin, it may have some carved detail, but generally the sabre is a plain and smooth design, which can be found on the rear of many of our wooden dining chairs. Some of our chrome dining chairs, also have slightly flared rear legs, putting a real contemporary twist on the design and proving that 18th century chairs are still an influence today. Modern adaptations of these designs are a great way to bring a hint of traditional style to your interior. Plus, with a wider range of resources and technology available today, there is huge potential to bring back carved designs or even plain designs in new materials. For example, a chrome cabriole leg could be seen in the not-so-distant future! Dining Chairs
How To Mix & Match Dining Chairs
The eclectic look is ever popular in home décor, and an easy way to follow the trend is to mix and match your dining chairs. Often seen in vintage style bistros and cafes, it can also be done with contemporary designs in a variety of ways. Pairing different chairs forms a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, allowing you to create a dining area with character and personality, which is something you don’t always get with a matching set. We have put together some examples, and with our broad range of designs you’re sure to find the perfect combination to get the look in your home. The key to achieving successful mismatched style is to select chairs with one common element, this could be shape, design, colour, or material, but doing so will keep some consistency in your dining area. As seen with our Verdi Chairs and Vigo chairs above, the colours and designs differ slightly, however thanks to the similar upholstery and frame finish they form a charming one-of-a-kind set. We have chosen eight examples to inspire you, with each one bringing a different dynamic to the table: Same Design With & Without Arms Seen as the traditional dining table setup, the obvious choice is to use dining chairs with arms, also known as carver chairs, for each end of the table and place dining chairs without arms along the sides. Create a continuous aesthetic by choosing chairs with the same design, like our Ramsay Walnut Chair & Ramsay Walnut Chair With Arms. Chairs without arms are generally cheaper, whilst those with arms are perfect for the end of the table as they occupy more space. So not only is this combination inexpensive, it is also ideal for small spaces. (October 2018 - Please note, the Ramsay Chair has now been discontinued) Same Design Different Colours An easy way to get this look is to choose the same design in different colours. The shape, style, and materials are identical but it allows you to emphasise or create colour schemes in your dining area. This bold look is more suited to modern designs, so why not try a variety of vibrant shades in a white space to make a real statement. Chairs in complementary colours or colours that match your interior will produce a neat mix-match style. Our Clementine Chair (seen below) has an array of funky colours, or opt for neutral shades if you’re worried about it looking over the top. If you plan to make a statement with your mixed dining chairs, using vibrant colours or bold pieces, select a simple or neutral dining table so your furniture isn’t fighting for attention. Clementine Chair Same Colour Different Design Keeping the colour of your dining chairs the same allows you to introduce unique designs. You can bring in different shapes, seat materials, and finishes, which is more interesting visually but still has a similar overall aesthetic. For example, the Clementine Chair has an arching backrest and a rounded pad whilst the Faith Dining Chair has a rectangular faux leather seat, but their colour unites them. Similarly, the Tempo and Shanghai chairs are connected through their use of linear stitching and tubular chrome legs. Maintaining the same style will tie each piece together, all the chairs pictured below are contemporary models, sat atop metal frames - but you could always mix and match modern and vintage pieces for a real juxtaposed look. When selecting completely different designs just remember to check the seat height of each chair before purchasing, to make sure your guests will be sat at a similar level. Faith, Clementine, Tempo & Shanghai Same Design Different Upholstery Go for an understated look by using chairs from the same collection with different upholstery. Switching up the seat material will bring added texture to your dining area, with the likes of faux or real leather lending a cool contemporary appeal whilst fabrics have a soft and cosy feel. Keeping the colours similar works best for this style, as the result will still match but the change in material will add subtle contrast. Our Ascot Oak Dining Chair Fabric is a stylish example, with the Ascot Oak Dining Chair as its bonded real leather counterpart. Ascot Oak Tweed Chair & Ascot Oak Cream Chair Same Materials Different Design Pairing upholstery is a great way to combine unique chair designs. The key is to buy chairs from the same manufacturer to ensure the type of fabric or leather will match exactly. When combining different seats try to keep the frame finish consistent, for example, black satin finished legs would clash with oak and make the contrast too severe. If the seats have the same fabric and similar decorative details, the colours do not necessarily have to match, you could pair complementary shades or create a monochrome scheme. The Ascot, Kobe, and Knightsbridge are great examples, they all have fabric upholstery and each one features a quilted design with wooden legs. Kobe Dining Chair Ascot Dining Chair Knightsbridge Dining Chair Same Design in Pattern & Plain This can be a simple method of introducing pattern to a plain room, or seek out designs that will tie in with other elements in the room, like floral wallpaper or a striped rug. You could arrange the plain chairs on each end with the patterned ones on the sides or vice versa, but opt for designs with similar shades of upholstery to keep a cohesive colour scheme. Neutrals work best for this, as it can be difficult to get an exact match on vibrant colours, particularly on designs from different collections. Similar in shape and design, our Chatsworth Dining Chair Cream showcases a beautiful diamond stitch pattern and makes a great counterpart to the Carlo Oak Chair Brown Fabric, they both feature neutral fabric upholstery with oak finished legs and a scroll back. Add a Statement Chair For a cost effective mismatched look, or if mixing all your dining chairs seems messy to you, just swap one chair from your existing set for a single statement piece at the head of the table. Plus there’s always more room at the end of the table for bigger and bolder pieces, so it makes sense to make the most of it. Our Moreton Dining Chair with the Overture Chair at one end would make a great pairing, playing with scale but keeping style and upholstery the same. When looking for singular pieces, make sure you take advantage of sales and find bargain items that are missing a full set. Swap Chairs for a Bench Create a casual dining area by adding a bench to your dining set. Replace one side of chairs with a bench, or place one at the end of your table depending on the size. This is a great option for smaller spaces because a bench can be placed along a wall, and its lower design takes up less physical and visual space. Try to match the frame finish of the bench with your dining chairs, or opt for an upholstered design, and pair it with a dining chair in the same colour fabric, as seen below. The mix and match look is a really simple way of updating your kitchen or dining room without having to splash out on a complete new set of dining chairs. We have given you just a few examples of the possibilities, but you’re sure to find more combinations when browsing our range. Shop Dining Chairs
Designing a Home for the Whole Family
Designing the perfect family home is an exercise in combining style and creativity with comfort and practicality, and when you add children and pets into the equation it’s important that everyone has a space to feel at home in. With the advice of three experts in design and family life, we have put together a definitive guide of home design ideas to help create the perfect space for you, your family and your pets - letting you achieve a practical yet stylish look. "If I Fits I Sits" Photo Competition Pets are family too and we want to see yours! Snap a photo of your pet sitting on their favourite furniture and you could win a £300 Atlantic Shopping voucher AND a specially designed pet parcel, full of treats! View Results Designing a Kitchen for the Family As one of the most popular rooms in the house, the role of the kitchen has changed from a functional space for cooking to a place for the entire family to eat, socialise, and even get some studying or work done. With many modern homes not featuring a separate family room a multifunctional family kitchen is the perfect alternative. "Ideally my kitchen would be big, bright and have lots of space, but it's not always like that. The most important thing is to make it work for you. Maybe a round table would work better for your space than a rectangular one. Take a minute or two to plan the space to make the most of it!" When the kitchen acts as a family room there have to be areas for activities other than cooking. You might have a dining table for family dinners, while a breakfast bar with comfortable kitchen stools can double as a spot for informal mealtimes and a place for kids to do homework. In such a versatile space, it is ideal to consider cabinets with built-in food bowls and beds for pets so they can be included whilst keeping the floor clear. "We have a kitchen diner, which we use as the hub of our house – my husband works on his laptop whilst I’m cleaning up and our daughter’s having her lunch. We can all be together and catch up without getting on top of each other." For those with young children, or a very busy family, it’s worth investing in hardwearing surfaces. Stone and ceramic are great for flooring, and easily mopped when spills and muddy paw prints occur. Likewise, choosing stylish dining chairs and bar stools with faux leather or ABS plastic seats can provide a sleek, contemporary, and fun finish while allowing for quick and easy clean-ups. Family Room Ideas & Design The family room should be an informal and fun space where everyone can relax and spend time together. If your family room is often filled with children, furry friends or plenty of visitors, then seating, durable furnishings and storage within your design will be important. "If you have young children you'll need to make sure you've got enough storage for books and toys. When the children are in bed, it's nice to put the toys away to give you a more grown up space, so storage is key. You'll appreciate a break in the evenings and the feeling that you've got your space back. The room has to work in many different ways when you have a family." Additionally, opt for rugs that can be washed easily when spills or accidents happen, and if you have particularly playful toddlers, you might benefit from washable wall paint. For pet owners, the removal of pet hair is something to keep in mind with your seating. Consider using a throw with your chairs or sofa, and select a fabric in a similar colour to your pets’ fur – this will hide persistent hairs in between hoovering. "Finding bedding for your pets which matches your decor may seem unnecessary, but having your furniture flow makes everything look and feel more homely. Being able to give our dogs somewhere to relax in comfort is really important to us." An open plan layout gives everyone their own space. Reading corners with cosy chairs, workstations, and even pet beds will get the whole house together without stepping on each other’s toes. It’s also ideal to connect the family room with the kitchen, as the cook won’t feel excluded from the family and can keep an eye on the kids at the same time. Living Room Ideas & Design The living room needs to blend appearance with practicality. As the chosen place for entertaining visitors, it should be flexible for a variety of occasions. Why not arrange your sofas to face each other, and add tables in between to create a sociable layout that encourages conversation, rather than being focussed around a TV. Coffee tables with rounded edges are best for families with young children to avoid accidents with corners, and tables with shelves are even better for extra storage, which is vital to keep a family home organised. "We are in the middle of sectioning off our room with sofas. Creating extra uses for the room means everyone can spend time together. With the arrival of our little one later this year, a major need in our living room is more seating to accommodate all the family. So, we've been adding extra pouffes and stools which can double up as extra seating for guests." Don’t forget these spaces are just as much about the adults, so include a spot for you to relax in. An armchair in a darker colour will hide any marks from the kids or the pets, and is ideal for reading, listening to music, or enjoying a glass of wine at the end of the day. "I’ve learnt that the key to a harmonious family environment is making sure that everybody has a little bit of space to call their own. The living room for example, is a place where we all congregate together, but we tend to all have our own areas. Our dog (Max) has his own section of the sofa, which we cover with a throw, meaning that we can keep it clean and he can still feel part of the family. And the hubby and I have the other end to cuddle up on!" With a little knowledge, some inspiration and good use of the right furniture you can create the perfect environment for the entire family to enjoy in your home, which is safe for children, pets and adults to enjoy without losing its charm. As with any good home design, a truly good layout is one you’ll want to keep for years to come. Shop All Bar Stools
Kitchens Through The Decades
Over the years the kitchen has adapted to economic and societal changes, embracing advancements in technology, style trends, and family life. Once seen as a service area away from the social rooms of the house, it has since become a versatile space for families to enjoy together. Here we will take you through the decades to see how kitchen design has developed over the last century. The War Years - 1920's - 1940's During the early 1900’s, it was rare to see anyone other than the women of the house in the kitchen. It was considered a functional room, so space was limited and appearance was mostly utilitarian. The introduction of rationing throughout the war intensified the no-frills look as the kitchen was only used to try and fuel the family with very little food. Industrialisation meant that factories were developing in terms of saving time in production, and this was then carried into kitchen design with the idea of labour-saving layouts and inventions. For example, refrigerators were introduced into the kitchen in the 1930’s, and electric cookers started to replace gas. The furniture was mostly free standing, with a simple wooden table, an oven, and a farmhouse sink fixed to the wall. The first step towards the fitted kitchen came with the Hoosier Cabinet, this was a separate cabinet that provided housewives with both kitchen storage and a workspace. With a pull out work surface, spice racks, and flour sifters, all food prep could be done in one place making it a great development in efficiency in the kitchen. The Fabulous Fifties Thanks to post-war manufacturing advancements throughout the 50’s, bespoke fitted cabinets were introduced along with an array of new materials. Fibreglass, aluminium, and stainless steel were common and Formica worktops and tables featured in most homes. These synthetic materials are easier to maintain, which was important as the kitchen became more about appearance. As with other rooms in the 1950’s household, there was an increase of technology and electrical equipment in the kitchen. Convenience and efficiency were key so electric mixers, toasters, and coffee machines became readily available appliances, freezers went into mass production for the home, and automatic washing machines were also making an appearance. Towards the end of the decade the kitchen was being revitalised with new equipment, and the décor became more colourful too. Influenced by the Americans, the use of bold red and pastel blues and pinks were favoured colour schemes, along with the infamous retro linoleum checkerboard flooring – what we now know as American Diner style. Thinking of creating your own retro 50’s kitchen? Our Java Diner Stool is a great choice for this style! The Swinging Sixties By the 60’s, the idea of the perfect housewife was fading as more women got jobs and spent less time in the kitchen, so time saving layouts and appliances were necessary. Dishwashers were introduced and frozen food became a staple to reduce the time spent preparing meals. Not only that, kitchens started to grow in size again with larger fridges and space for a small dining table. Built-in and fitted cabinets were now a fundamental feature and the basic design was much like the kitchen we know today. However, the décor was far from it, as classic 60’s style embraced vibrant patterns and vivid colours. Psychedelic patterned tiles, wallpaper, and vinyl flooring were in fashion, with mustard yellows, oranges, reds, and greens creating some truly garish colour schemes. Space age style was also a leading trend thanks to rapid scientific advancements throughout the decade, and of course the Space Race. Futuristic shapes and abstract designs were all the rage in furniture and décor, along with metallic accents like stainless steel countertops, chrome appliances, and copper pendant lighting. The Disco Years - 1970's & 1980's After the bold colours of the sixties, the 1970’s toned it down with dark and earthy colour schemes - not helped by poor fluorescent lighting. Muted yellows, browns, and avocado greens were common, even in the appliances, along with dark wooden cabinets and wall panelling. The dark wood theme was also evident in the furniture, often in wooden dining chairs placed around a small kitchen table. Wallpaper and linoleum floors were still fashionable, particularly with geometric or floral patterns influenced by the dominant disco culture. The countertop microwave oven was readily available for domestic use by the late 70’s, and its arrival reinvented the idea of convenience in the kitchen. One and a half ovens were also popular, as were separate counter top hobs. These extra appliances created a need for adequate workspace, often producing an overcrowded room with as many fitted cabinets as possible. However, the 80’s introduced cabinets without handles that led the way to the much-loved seamless design of today. Bright and neutral kitchens were embraced in the 80’s with white appliances and a trend for white cabinets with a wooden trim. The light and airy look was enhanced by the adoption of open plan living. Thanks to the perfection of the extractor hood, living and kitchen space could be integrated without the lingering smell of food. This meant the kitchen started to become a social space and a place of entertainment. The Modern Millennium - 1990's & 2000's The 90’s went back to basics and brought us simple, rustic kitchens with detailed light wood cabinets and pine or light oak furniture. Minimalist style was also popular after the overcrowded look of the previous years. Neutral or white colour schemes, white appliances, and a taste for affordable flat pack and pared down furniture had developed, similar to the widespread Scandi style of today. With a whole new range of appliances available, integrated design meant that they could be hidden behind cabinet doors for an uncompromised aesthetic. As more people were opting for bigger and more sociable layouts, the kitchen island grew in popularity and with it came the rise of bar stools in the home. Simple and pastoral wooden designs were the preferred choice, with faux leather and chrome making an appearance later on. With the arrival of digital television in the 90’s, and of course the Internet, the turn of the millennium saw kitchens decked out with an array of technology, including televisions. Induction hobs were becoming the preferred choice for safer and more efficient cooking, and also added to the streamline aesthetic of the modern kitchen. Colour schemes were often white with bold pops of colour, and the introduction of LED lights meant that you could illuminate your kickboards and drawers in a rainbow of colours. Today & The Future The kitchen today has elements taken from each decade of the past century, plus there is a fashion for adopting and revamping styles from previous years. We now have extremely multipurpose kitchens and many people are removing the dining room to make way for an open plan kitchen. So extra seating areas like breakfast bars, kitchen tables, funky feature chairs, and workspaces with computers, are a must. Now the heart of the home, the kitchen is seen as a space to live in, rather than a functional room or a trophy kitchen to impress guests. Style is still important but we now favour comforting colour schemes and furniture that we can relax in. The latest designs combine unlikely materials like chrome, wood, and faux leather, as seen in the Jive Bar Stool, and painted finishes with luxurious velvets are in vogue, as our Brunswick Bar Stool demonstrates. As we head towards 2020, the kitchen can be seen as a hub for new technology and gadgets. Touchscreens are everywhere so it can’t be long before the kitchen is inundated with them, maybe even with interactive screens built into the worktop surfaces. The future could see our appliances being interconnected, and we’ll be able to control them from our phones - so you could get updates from the fridge or turn on the oven to start cooking dinner on your way home. Shop Kitchen Stools
Introducing Our New Website
After months of hard work, the team at Atlantic Shopping are excited to announce the launch of our brand new website! With a new look, as well as lots of exciting features, we hope that it will make shopping with us more enjoyable than ever. Take a look around, and let us know what you think! "Rest assured that, although a lot has changed, you’ll still find the same great products, unbeatable prices, and amazing delivery service on our website. We’re still a family-run business, and we still firmly believe in the value of fast, friendly & helpful customer service." Fresh New Design The first thing you’ll probably notice is our brand new website design. As a company, we believe that shopping for furniture should be as straightforward as possible, and we’ve tried to reflect this with our minimalist look. To save our customers spending hours trawling through listing pages, we’ve grouped all the colours of each product under one listing, with coloured swatches underneath each to show the available colours. We’ve also made sure that our site is compatible with mobile, tablets and desktop computers, so wherever you are and whatever device you’re on, you’ll be able to browse the site with ease. Help Me Choose To help our customers find their perfect stool design, we’ve created ‘Help Me Choose’, located on the bar stool menu at the top of the page. To find the right stool for you, simply enter a few details, including your preferred colour, ideal backrest height and your maximum budget. You’ll then be shown a range of stylish bar stools that suit your exact needs- simple! Why not check it out for yourself?.... Stool Finder Brand New Content It’s not just our look that’s new. We’ve been working hard to put together loads of handy content, designed to help you to find the perfect products for your needs. Don’t know your acrylic from your ABS? Our one-stop Furniture Glossary of Terms explains all the words and phrases that we use on our site, so you’ll be clued up and in the know. To answer any further questions that you might have, we’ve created a series of short videos. Whether you need to know how to assemble a bar stool, or how to disassemble one, or you want to find out more about our delivery service, they’re packed full of helpful information to make your life a little easier. We’ve also improved our buying guides, as well as adding: Bed Buying Guide. To our popular Bar Stool Buying Guide, we’ve added an exciting feature: the Bar Stool Width Calculator. Simply enter a few details, and the calculator will work out the maximum width of stool that you can fit along the length of your breakfast bar. You can then use the external seat width slider on the listing page to narrow down your search. Finally, make sure you take a look at our brand new Inspiration & Advice hub, formerly known as the Knowledge Base. From handy how-to articles to the latest home interior design inspiration, it’s the perfect place to get top tips. You can also now filter the articles by product or type, saving you time! European Delivery Service Along with our new website, we’re launching our exciting European delivery service, delivering to Belgium, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Italy and Spain. To find out more about our fantastic prices and transit times, take a look at our International Delivery page. We hope you’ll like the changes we’ve made to our site. Why not get in touch and let us know what you think? We look forward to hearing from you. The Atlantic Shopping Team Shop All Bar Stools
Juxtaposition In Interior Design
Regularly used in art and music, juxtaposition is becoming increasingly popular in interior design. It tends to be a controversial subject, but can be applied in a variety of ways. It can be used to mix conflicting designs in the same room, or on a grander scale, to modernise a historic home or even bring a vintage vibe to a new build. In this article we show you some examples and weigh up the pros and cons. "Juxtaposition can be defined as taking two objects, themes, or materials and combining them or placing them together to create a striking contrast. In interior design, this can be interpreted as adopting two different styles, such as rustic and ultramodern, within the same space." We have picked out six examples of rooms with contrasting styles, and each one has taken a different approach. Read on to find out how you can successfully achieve the look in your home. Retro Victorian Kitchen In the kitchen pictured below, you can identify the house as Victorian due to the high ceilings, wooden cabinetry, architraves and bay window situated at the far end of the image. The wooden flooring has been chosen to keep with the original structure of the house, whereas the cream cabinets, brushed steel appliances, and bold pendant lights have a truly modern appearance. Creating further juxtaposition, the kitchen stools have a modern antiqued finish, giving the room a slight country feel. It therefore combines three individual styles, and yet nothing looks out of place. Knightsbridge Oak Stool Tweed Fabric The trick is to create links and visually connect the differences. You can see the traditional flooring and industrial stools work well together because of the use of lightwood, whilst the dark metal frames also complement the dark cabinets. You should also ensure that the room is balanced, here the bright yellow lamps and white walls offset the heavy quality of the antique furniture and thick stone countertops. Contemporary Georgian Kitchen Here, a Georgian home boasts a kitchen with contemporary fittings. The distinct high ceilings, large sash windows and shutters, cast iron radiators and detailed architraves are all indications of the period architecture. A traditional chandelier has also been selected to suit the character of the home, whilst spotlights are an opposing choice. Shaker style cupboard doors add to the timeless aesthetic whilst the square handles and state-of-the-art integrated appliances provide a twenty-first century appeal. Completing the look, the chrome ABS bar stools introduce a trendy retro vibe. Coco Bar Stool White The contrasting elements of the room are connected by the white monochrome colour scheme, even the flooring, despite being classic wood, has a white wash to fit the room. This approach allows you to effortlessly blend décor styles, you can then use accent colours for added juxtaposition and to highlight preferred areas or features, as seen here the eye is drawn to the purple flowers. Modern Country Kitchen The next image is a stunning example for those who love country décor but also want modern luxuries. The cabinets have a classic farmhouse look and the wide plank oak flooring matches this, but its diagonal placement adds a fashionable twist. The units have been given a crisp white finish, which is offset by an antiqued cupboard and a similar rustic dining table. An innovative wine cellar and the latest brushed steel appliances introduce stylish practicality, whilst the bar stools and pendant lamps have a funky retro appeal for an added contrast. Choosing a traditional design in a fresh and innovative colour can be a small starting point for those who are unsure. As seen here, the light colour of the units brings a cool and crisp aesthetic to the predominantly wooden space, with the walls and ceilings adding to this, and providing a subtle backdrop for the metallic appliances. New York Warehouse Apartment For a unique take on the concept, this warehouse apartment has been furnished to create an ultramodern setting. The exposed brick and steel framed windows are typical industrial interior qualities, and despite being new, the wooden flooring has been selected to complement this. Juxtaposing the factory-style exterior is the chromed furniture and decorations, with the high shine finish on the acrylic bar stools and glass bar table bringing elegance to the rough appearance of the brick. Vetro Stool Table Clear Glass The black floor lamp is a retro addition, proving that you can include a variety of designs with surprising success. You should, however, stick to two or three styles, as too many can overcomplicate the space, with different features and elements fighting for attention. On Trend Rustic Kitchen Adding an extension to an older home is a great chance to update the interior. In the image below, there are a variety of considered combinations that effortlessly blend rustic character with innovative style. An upmarket Aga oven now occupies the original fireplace alcove, with copper cookware displayed above for that vintage aesthetic, whilst the kitchen island has a fashionable look because of the twenty-first century gas lift bar stools. In the dining area, a classic chandelier and aged lantern ornaments complement the antiqued refectory table, but pairing it with chrome dining chairs creates a stunning mix of old and new. Eve Wooden Bar Stool Black Often when updating or extending a period home, the existing beams and supports become an obstacle in the middle of the room. Here the beam has been incorporated into the new kitchen island, and the wooden table and bentwood bar stools counteract its dominant appearance. Chromed Farmhouse Kitchen This Edwardian house has been renewed with the use of the latest materials in kitchen design. The fireplace alcove with an Aga oven is an indication of the traditional structure, but this is updated with a chic black granite backsplash and matching work surfaces. Architraves, wooden cabinets, and a Belfast sink, challenge this look with their farmhouse appearance, resulting in a country kitchen with contemporary flair. Sleek polished finishes are sought after in modern interiors, and the oversized chrome accessories and acrylic bar stools certainly work to add a present-day panache to this space. Juxtaposition can also be used to make a focal point in the room, here the kitchen island cabinets have been painted blue, separating it from the otherwise monochrome colour scheme. Shimmer Translucent Stool Smoked As with any style choice, there are advantages and disadvantages when implementing juxtaposition within the home. We have created a list of pros and cons to help you decide if this is the look for you: Pros - It brings character to a home, for example, industrial furniture can give a quirky edge to a contemporary space that may otherwise appear too clinical, whilst clean and minimalist décor adds practicality and convenience to a traditional space. - There are inexpensive options - simply introduce contrasting furniture or accessories to your existing interior if a complete upgrade is too costly. This is also safer than remodelling the entire room and discovering the end result doesn’t work. - In open plan spaces it can work to define zones, for example, you may have a vintage dining area with classic dining chairs, whilst the kitchen has state-of-the-art appliances and units. - Great for those who can’t decide on one single look, and when you get the balance right you can create a truly unique design suited to your personality and preferences. Cons - Juxtaposition is not everyone’s cup of tea so the unique styling may be daunting to others. Therefore it may be difficult to sell your home in the future, as buyers will expect to see décor that matches the design of the house. - If you choose to completely renovate the space it can be a big and expensive gamble that is easy to get wrong. There is a strong element of risk and experimentation when mixing opposing styles so it’s best to start small. - Removing historical details in a period house could reduce the value. If your home is listed, you may not have permission to change the structure, this could include fireplaces, exposed beams, coving and cornicing, and windows. - An interior that matches the architecture of the house will still look good in years to come, but current décor trends in an old house may have a short shelf life and become dated. Shop All Bar Stools
20 Kitchen Design Mistakes To Avoid
Our customers are often refurbishing their kitchen when buying bar stools from us, so we want to offer our guidance and advice to make the process as simple as possible. Here we have listed the most common and costly kitchen design errors and how to avoid them. Just remember, nothing ever goes completely to plan and something is bound to go wrong, but hopefully this article will help keep mistakes to a minimum. 1. Blowing The Budget Decide on a budget before you start the project and stick to it, unexpected expenses may still occur so try to plan for this in advance. Remember, if you hire designers or tradesmen, don’t pay in full until the work is finalised to ensure everything is complete and meets your requirements. 2. Not Asking An Expert Remodelling and decorating without help is something many people believe will save them money, but seeking assistance from experts can prevent costly mistakes that occur when you go it alone. A kitchen designer will suggest things you hadn’t even thought of and can recommend trusted tradesmen. You can also buy appliances through them that are guaranteed to fit your space, and you may even get a better deal with many offering competitive prices. 3. Forgetting A Temporary Kitchen To make the transition smoother, before you start tearing out your old kitchen, you will need to set up a temporary one so you still have a place to make food. This can be as simple as moving a microwave and a kettle into another room, such as the utility room. 4. Lousy Layout Be sure to consider the golden triangle when deciding on your kitchen layout. This principle suggests that grouping the three most used areas in close proximity is the most successful kitchen design. These areas are usually the cooker, sink, and fridge, but you may prioritise different appliances so think about what you use most when preparing food. Similarly, make cleaning up after meals a quick and efficient process by keeping the sink and dishwasher together. 5. Cheap Cabinets Your cabinets are the foundation of your kitchen, and when it comes to the quality of them, you certainly get what you pay for. It’s worth spending the extra money on durable and long-lasting materials, rather than going for the cheapest deal and regretting it a year later when things fall apart. 6. Delicate Surfaces Before investing in expensive materials for your kitchen, consider their practicality in your home. For example, delicate surfaces like marble can stain easily so may not be the best choice for a family with young children. 7. Jarring Doors Your appliances, cupboards and drawers should be designed and positioned in a way that allows them all to be open at the same time. Any collisions can cause damage to doors and are a hassle when cooking. 8. Wrong Worktop Height If you opt to include a breakfast bar, keep the height at 90cm. This is standard worktop height, making it easier to find suitable bar stools to tuck underneath, like our selection of kitchen stools. That said, you should make sure the height of your work surfaces are suitable for you and your height. Lush Real Leather Bar Stool 9. Limited Counter Space Bare in mind that some of your counter space will be occupied by the likes of microwaves, toasters, and coffee machines. So whilst it might look like you have plenty of space for food prep to begin with, this will be reduced once you furnish the kitchen. 10. Furniture That Doesn't Fit There’s nothing worse than picking out the perfect furniture for your interior and bringing it home to realise it doesn’t fit, so make sure you have all the measurements of your room before making a purchase. To ensure your bar stools will fit when buying from us, we have a handy bar stool width calculator in our Bar Stool Buying Guide, which will work out the maximum stool width suitable for your breakfast bar. 11. Skimping On Storage One of the most common problems in the kitchen is not having enough cupboard space, which then leads to cluttered counters, so make sure you have plenty. Open storage is a popular trend at the moment, but before you jump in and replace all your cabinets with open shelving, think about how many items you have that are suitable for display - and how much you want to dust! 12. Impractical Appliances If you are completely remodelling your kitchen, be careful when deciding on the placement of the sink or dishwasher, as the plumbing for these can be difficult to change. Other appliances have specific requirements too, for example, if you plan on buying a fridge with an ice machine, it will need access to water. 13. Too Much Stainless Steel Many people get carried away with the idea of having an ultramodern kitchen and end up with a cold and utilitarian appearance because they include an excessive amount of stainless steel appliances. Not only does the space become uninviting, brushed steel is susceptible to fingerprints, which can be a pain to clean. Instead, try an integrated fridge or dishwasher and keep them behind cabinet doors. Oracle Brushed Steel Stool 14. No Room For Rubbish Rubbish and recycling is often a last minute thought after the kitchen is finished. But don’t end up with an ugly plastic bag or bin in the corner of the room, you can avoid this by including a built-in or integrated bin in your cabinet design. 15. Not Enough Electrical Outlets With all the electrical gadgets now used in the kitchen, you need plenty of places to plug them in and use more than one at a time. Hide outlets below your kitchen island worktop so you don’t ruin the style of the room. 16. Insufficient Ventilation Ventilation is necessary to rid the kitchen of lingering food odours. Think about the placement of your extractor fan in relation to the joists of the house and the outside walls, where is most feasible and efficient. Although it may seem like more of a hassle, it’s worth noting that ducted ventilation is much more effective than an extractor with a charcoal filter. 17. Lack Of Heating Something easily forgotten in a kitchen layout is heating and where to place radiators. If your space is particularly large or you think a radiator will ruin the flow of the room, consider having heating installed in your kickboards or floors. 18. Inconsistent Lighting It is important to have a variety of lighting in your kitchen for both atmosphere and task lighting. However, the colour temperature of your lights should be uniform throughout the room. Cool light is often used for bright spaces like the kitchen whilst warm light is used to create a relaxed ambiance in the lounge or dining room. You can find out more about the colour temperature of light in our blog post How Light Affects Colour. An example of inconsistent lighting can be seen below: 19. Buying Before Trying You should always get samples of the materials you plan to use, whether this is paint for the walls or granite for the counters. Take testers of paint home and see how they look under different lighting, and don’t forget to view them in daylight and at night before painting an entire wall. 20. Stale Style Choice When choosing themes and colour schemes it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the possibilities and pick the safest option, but the end result can look bland and boring. On the other hand, it’s understandable that you want your home to leave a lasting impression on guests, but avoid one-off trends. They will soon become out-dated and bright orange cabinets certainly won’t help to sell your home in the future. Consult an interior designer if you’re struggling to pick a style for your kitchen. Many of the points we have mentioned may seem obvious, but you can soon get caught up in a project and forget the simple stuff when you want the job done quickly. Just be sure not to make quick and rash decisions without measuring everything twice and thinking things through. Shop All Bar Stools
How To Create A Glamorous Kitchen
Gone are the days when the kitchen was a practical room with the sole purpose of preparing meals. Many of us now use it as a social space and a replacement for the dining room, and because of this, the desire to create a kitchen with lavish style and comfort has increased significantly. Adding a sense of glamour and luxury will give an expensive look that is sure to impress guests, read on to find out how with our top tips. Deluxe Design The key to adding glamour to your home is to use luxurious materials. Soft fabrics, like velvet and silk, deliver sumptuous style when used in rugs, curtains, cushions, and table clothes, creating an indulgent and alluring setting. Choose furniture with plush fabric upholstery, like our Halo Stool Champagne Velvet, for that comfortable and cosy appearance. This style is all about the detail, so if velvet isn’t for you, opt for fabric pieces with quilted patterns, stitch detailing, buttons, and decorative studs. Take a look at some of our popular velvet bar stools:Glam Bar Stool Brunswick Bar Stool Dove Bar Stool Swap the classic chrome and brushed steel for silver, brass, and gold finishes, or mix and match to create a striking contrast. Warmer metals deliver a traditional sense of class, so why not try out some brass light fixtures or copper pots and pans, even gilt edging on cupboards or picture frames will introduce a regal feel. A truly deluxe choice is marble or granite, adding subtle pattern to the room whilst becoming a luxurious focal point. You could go for sleek marble worktops or have an entire island crafted to fit your space, or be ambitious and invest in an impressive marble floor. For an affordable alternative, use it in smaller features such as lamps and ornamental pieces. Keep in mind that certain materials may be more suited to a mature family, with the likes of marble and velvet being slightly more susceptible to stains, and difficult to clean. Presence Over Practicality Decorate the space in the same way you would the living room, include artwork, sculptures, photographs, and ornate vases for a charming and personal atmosphere that the kitchen often lacks. When designing a luxe interior, choose items and materials that favour decoration over functionality. For example, hanging a chandelier will deliver a sense of magnificence that spotlights simply cannot provide. Soft lighting is key for this style, offering the relaxed feel you find in the lounge, so if you are set on including task lighting, why not try pendant lamps. For a true sense of grandeur, add a sophisticated dining table to your kitchen, with plush dining chairs like the Chatsworth or the Knightsbridge, or for smaller spaces try a breakfast nook with fewer chairs for a similar effect. This creates a formal yet inviting environment that encourages guests to sit and socialise. Sophisticated Colour Scheme Deep and rich colour schemes work well to lend an intimate feel, an essential quality for a glamorous space. A monochrome palette with metallic shades of grey will complement any silver or chrome accents in the room, or you may find that deep blues, purples, and emerald greens will enhance gold and brass items. Choose furniture with rich walnut or black satin finished legs to create a cohesive appearance in a darker room, or a tasteful contrast against lighter neutral tones. Take care not to overdo the deep hues as this can make the room look smaller, but the use of reflective surfaces and mirrors can increase the visual space. Embrace Embellishment Including metallic accents in your kitchen will deliver an affluent and exclusive look. Not just in the appliances but also on cupboard handles, splashbacks, taps, and lighting - you can even include it in your furniture. We offer a selection of products edged with chrome or satin studs, and some models exhibit a tasteful chrome ring on the rear of the seat, as seen on the Ascot. For a real opulent boutique style, our Kensington Dining Chair boasts a double row of decorative studs around its seat. Plus, many of our velvet products are available in silvery grey shades, which adds to the glamorous and upmarket feel that embellishment brings. Some of our most popular embellished dining chairs are pictured below: Kensington Dining Chair Etienne Dining Chair Knightsbridge Oak Chair Choose large accessories with high-sheen lacquered finishes like silver vases and oversized candelabra, or if you feel this may be overpowering in your home, try subtle touches like gold plated or crystal cabinet handles. Why not show off your best glassware in display cabinets, this will add extra sparkle by reflecting the light, or hang an extravagant mirror for a real wow-factor. Will you fully embrace this style or keep it subtle with a few luxurious touches? For more inspiration and ideas you can check out our Luxe Living Pinterest board. Shop All Bar Stools
Product Spotlight: Visor Stool
New to Atlantic Shopping for 2016 is the Visor Stool, a funky and innovative design suited to contemporary and minimalist interiors, whilst also displaying the light and spacious aesthetic of Scandi style furniture. Unlike any other bar stool we currently offer, the Visor showcases a unique combination of three contrasting modern materials; a clear acrylic backrest, a matte ABS resin seat, and four metal legs with a natural oak grain finish. Together, these features form a truly original piece that will bring a sense of creative style to your home. Beautifully crafted from durable matte ABS resin, the seat is hardwearing and easy to wipe clean when inevitable spills occur. The matte resin also has a textured finish, creating a chic contrast with the sleek backrest and frame. Compact in its design, the Visor has a low backrest fashioned from clear acrylic, this allows you to tuck the stool away when not in use, but still offers some support when seated. The transparent acrylic also takes up less visual space, and therefore makes this an ideal choice for small rooms or for those seeking to create a minimalist look. Delivering the best of both worlds, the four-legged welded metal frame has an undeniably realistic oak finish, providing strength and stability, along with the natural quality that wood has to offer. Between the tapered legs, bracing bars reinforce the sturdy frame and also double as footrests. Fixed at worktop height, the Visor is perfect for use in the kitchen and has protective plugs beneath the legs to preserve your floor surfaces. The Visor is available in four stylish colours. For a neutral colour scheme, black, stone, and white would work well to complement the space, whilst green is great for adding a fresh splash of colour to your home. Visor Stool Black Visor Stool Green Visor Stool White Whether you’re creating a fun and funky interior or if you’re just looking to bring some contemporary style to your kitchen, the Visor Stool is an exclusive model guaranteed to make a lasting impression. Take a look at our New Product Arrivals Pinterest board to keep up to date with all our latest products. (August 2016 - Please note, the Visor Stool has now been discontinued, however the Drift Oak Bar Stool makes a great alternative.) Shop All Bar Stools
How To Plan Your Room With A Mood Board
Sometimes, the hardest part of decorating is getting started. We all have an image in our head of how we want a room to look, but trying to recreate that image in the home can be a daunting task. This post will discuss how making a mood board can kick-start the process. Before decorating a room, it helps to piece together all of your ideas and form an image that conveys the overall look you want, this can be done by creating a mood board. It’s a great way to visually communicate and organise your initial design ideas and experiment with different ones. It can also become a team effort, allowing you and whomever you are decorating with to bring individual tastes and concepts to the table. Preventing costly mistakes, a mood board helps you decide what does and doesn’t work before splashing out on expensive materials. As a portable representation of your ideal room, not only can you take it with you when shopping for extra pieces for the room, you can also see how your chosen paint colours and fabrics look under different lighting or next to existing features. Getting Started You can find ideas in interior design magazines and websites, or take a look around you when you’re out and about, you may find plenty of inspiration from textures and patterns in fashion or even nature. Collect images of rooms and styles you like, these could be printed from a website, cut out of magazines, or take your own photos of interiors that catch your eye. You can then look for common themes and features in these images to use when decorating your own home. Gather swatches for each element of the room, this includes paint colours and wallpaper, carpet or tiling samples, curtain materials, and even seat fabrics. If you like the look of one of our dining chairs but aren’t sure if it will match your décor, we can send a fabric swatch to you. Or if you prefer, bring your mood board into our showroom and compare it with a variety of chairs and bar stools to find the best match. Will you be creating a physical or digital mood board? Make a physical board with a large piece of card or use a corkboard to easily pin down ideas. This is great for trying out specific combinations; for example, you can see how particular wallpaper will look against your seat fabric. If you prefer to use a computer, get creative with the likes of Photoshop to compile images you find online. There are also many online platforms that are quick and easy to use. Pinterest allows you to create numerous boards, you could create one for every room of the house, and fill each one with inspiration and images that appeal to you. Check out our Pinterest for some examples. Layout When arranging your board, position your images, samples, and swatches, as you would see them in the room. For example, place carpet or tile samples at the bottom, and pair features that will sit next to each other, such as curtain fabric next to paint samples. You will discover items that complement each other and items that clash. This will enable you to visualise the room as a whole, and you may find it helpful to sketch the layout of the space first. Consider the size of each swatch you use, what will take up the most visual space in the room? Generally, you should use bigger samples for flooring and walls; this will give you an idea of how the ratio of colours and materials will work when put in place. If you are undecided on the style you want to go for, creating another mood board for a different colour scheme or theme can help you find a solution. You could also use text or keywords, such as ‘vintage’ or ‘luxurious’, as a reminder of the theme and atmosphere you want to create. Your preferences are likely to change as you begin to position everything, so if you are creating a physical board, make sure you use temporary fixings such as pins, paperclips, and masking tape, to easily remove and rearrange. Lush Chrome Stool Make as many different combinations as you like until you reach the look you want. Once you are happy with it, you can begin decorating safe in the knowledge that you have tried and tested the design.