The right colour palette can shift a room’s energy instantly, changing how we feel, move and even connect within a space. We spoke to the experts at Zest and Honey Interior Design Studio (ZH Studio) about how colour, when introduced intentionally, can be used to create romantic interiors, guiding mood in delicate yet powerful ways. Think layers of muted blush, deep plum or warm tones suggesting intimacy and warmth. When paired with tactile finishes (think wicker, velvet, natural linen or aged brass), your colour palette can come to life.  

It is the balance between contrast and harmony, bold and soft light and shadow that gives colour its emotional pull. So whether you’re inspired by the elegance of French Romance, the moody luxury of Dark Romance, the sunlit ease of Country Romance, or the free-spirited energy of Bohemian Romance, these design styles come with distinct colour palettes where love lives in the details.  

French romance  

Evoking a sense of timeless elegance and sophistication, French Romance is all about quiet opulence and charm.  

Think Parisian apartments kissed by natural light, ornate chandeliers glimmering above aged parquet floors and soft linen drapes swaying in the afternoon breeze. The palette whispers in subtle tones of off-whites, rich creams, beiges and darker, earthy shades. It is then layered with brass or gold details such as vintage mirrors and furniture, as well as gilded accent frames and decor alongside delicate florals, lace and crystal. This is a style where refinement meets intimacy, in a gentle balance between grandeur and sensual simplicity. 

@plasconpaintexpert Welcome the romantic essence of France into your spaces with this bespoke French Country Chic Colour Palette by Plascon Paint Expert. Get these and thousands of other colours tinted instore now! #colourinspiration #plasconpaintexpert #colourexpert ♬ original sound – Plascon Paint Expert

Top tip: When going into an interior design project, ZH Studio recommends using a colour rule to maintain a balanced distribution, with 60% being your dominant colour, 30% for a secondary colour, and 10% for an accent colour. 

Dark romance 

This enchanting design style speaks to a moody luxury interior, which serves as a backdrop for glamour and whimsy. It heroes a colour palette where shadows meet light in a dance of drama thanks to velvety textures, deep jewel tones and an air of mystery. Darkened walls in inky charcoal are contrasted by medium warm, wood-toned furniture and floor elements. To further enhance the mood, opt for lots of low-lit ambient lighting while filling the space with decorative antique pieces in brass or patina. Finally, introduce contrasting opulent jewel-tone colours through scatter cushions and fabric choices that can be complemented by touches of tasteful florals. In this way, you set the tone for every object to tell a story, where every corner feels alive with intrigue.  

 

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Bohemian romance 

Release your free-spirited nature through a design sensibility that rebels against luxury, minimalism and overall rigid curated spaces. The Modern Bohemian (Boho) aesthetic plays out in various ways within interiors, as it loosely interprets features of nomadic lifestyles through symbols of music, dance, arts and culture. A modern look at a bohemian-inspired colour palette mixes earthy tones with an array of vibrant colours drawn from multicultural pattern and textiles. Start with a light cream as a base colour, then mix in rich warm hues of terracotta, rust, orange, burgundy and reds for warmth. Saturated jewel tones such as emerald, sapphire, amethyst, mauve and topaz yellow work well in accent pieces. In this way, a Boho interior becomes a romantic setting where eclectic colour schemes and personal stories unfold effortlessly. 

Country romance 

The countryside ideal looks different all over the world, but for many the desire resides in its quiet and rural escape. Rolling green hills dappled with cattle, woolly sheep and wildflowers meet an ever-changing blue-grey sky to form the perfect harmony of colours to inspire your good ol’ countryside interior. Begin with clean neutrals as the dominant colour on walls and main furniture pieces. Build interest into the neutral space with rustic woody colours, brown leathers, stone features and animal print hides. Round it all up with decorative pieces and artworks in darker woods, terracotta accents, warm greens and generous plant life to create a grounded living space that holds you in a homely embrace.  

ZH studio’s advice  

Colour palettes play an important psychological role in our homes. When applied purposefully, colour has the ability to enlarge spaces, breathe fresh air into an area, or evoke a calm and tranquil atmosphere. It can transform a home into a personal sanctuary. Colour palettes incorporate a range of shades that work well together and make sense when applied throughout a home. You can always experiment with pops of colour, styles and techniques as long as the dominant colour is used throughout the home. When trying to achieve a specific interior design style, less is always more. Select one or two focal furniture pieces that encompass your favourite style, then begin to layer it with accent pieces such as scatter cushions, throws, artworks, feature walls, lighting and decor items. Your accent pieces will share colours from your desired colour palette without overwhelming the space in one colour or too many colours. Start small if colour is not your thing: Begin with a base shade, then slowly start choosing decorative items in colours that truly bring you joy and make sense for the room. Add these to your space. 

Words: Claudia Da Silva
Photography: Future content hub, Bureaux 

Also read: Tips to design your outdoor space 

The post How playing with colour palettes can set the tone for romance in design appeared first on TFG Media.

Romance has evolved throughout time and continues to do so today. It no longer belongs solely to candlelit dinners or handwritten letters, nor is it limited to societal views. It can now be found in the elegance of a well-curated space; in the tactile pleasure of a book that whispers stories so personal, it feels like you’re intruding; or so breathtaking that it piques your interest. At its core, romance is about feeling considered, cared for and worthy of the effort. These coffee table books embody that sentiment, inviting you to linger, to dream and to fall in love with the art of living life your way.  

David Kleinberg Interiors 

 

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For those who seek refinement without compromise, David Kleinberg Interiors is a masterclass in sophistication. Within its pages lie eleven extraordinary residences – spaces that balance grandeur with intimacy, modernity with timeless grace. From Manhattan’s urban elegance to the sunlit serenity of Palm Beach, David’s work is a testament to the transformative power of design. He spent over 35 years curating his body of work so it is unsurprising that this book is more than inspiration but rather aspiration – a glimpse into a world where every detail is deliberate and every room is a narrative of luxury. 

Sense of Place by Caitlin Flemming & Julie Goebel  

A love letter to the landscapes that shape us, Sense of Place explores the profound connection between home and horizon. From the pastoral calm of the English countryside to the sun-drenched streets of Mallorca, this decor book is a journey through interiors that echo their surroundings. 

Every page celebrates the different textures and tones, revealing how the essence of a place can transform a house into a sanctuary. With evocative essays and practical wisdom, mother and daughter duo Caitlin and Julie guide readers toward creating spaces that feel deeply personal – where every corner hums with memory and meaning.  

Curated Style by Kerrie-Ann Jones 

 

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Some say style is more than aesthetics, it is self-expression — and that the devil is in the details. When it comes to interior design, this is no different. It is the attention to detail and a personal touch that sets homes apart. Your personal style is showcased and rendered in wood, fabric and light. In the book Curated Style, Kerrie-Ann Jones invites you to discover the poetry of your own taste. Through homes that are as individual as fingerprints, this book teaches the art of refining — how to choose pieces that speak to the essence of who you are and arrange them in harmony. With its tactile cover and elegant design, Curated Style is a textured and visual delight, the perfect way to adorn your coffee table alongside a sculptural vase or candle. 

Words: Mecayla Maseka
Photography: Courtesy images

Also read:

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Lighting is the silent collaborator that sets the tone, enhances functionality and transforms how we experience a room,” says designer Laura Hammett. “Well-thought-out lighting ideas are as important as any piece of furniture, with layering different types of light achieving balance, warmth and depth.”  

And in 2026, it really is all about bringing a soft glow to your home — something we could all do with a bit more of. It’s light that envelops and sets the mood, rather than just focuses on getting the job done. It’s layered, providing shine wherever and whenever it’s needed. And it’s personal, ready to adapt and focus depending on your own mood. Light fittings are being designed as artworks themselves, whether it’s a rechargeable lamp or vast wall panel. Enter a season of gentle beauty, beginning with layering, materials — and, of course, the correct colour light bulb!  

Layer up 

If you’re reading this, you’re probably all about keeping “the big light” off already. Layered lighting brings flexibility and warmth by relying on multiple light sources in a room, not just one which will reproduce the same mood every time. Be mindful to include lights for ambience, tasks and accents in each room – this way, you get practicality and prettiness! This could look like dimmable downlights, a pendant light over a kitchen island and a floor lamp next to your favourite reading armchair. Play with the ratios according to what each room requires – a bathroom will need brighter task light than a bedroom.  

The case for colour  

A sure-fire way to get that glow going is to use warm light bulbs. But how to choose the correct one? Next time you’re standing in the light bulb aisle, keep this in mind: The Kelvin scale. Forget the names (what is the difference between soft white and warm white really?) and focus on the numbers. Kelvin measures colour temperature so the warmest, most yellow bulbs start at 1 000 Kelvin while the coolest, bluest bulbs reach their max at 10 000 Kelvin. Warmer bulbs are good for ambience, while cooler ones are best for task lighting. Consider brightness too, which is measured in lumens. More lumens mean a brighter light. Look for bulbs between 2 700K and 3 000K for warm light that will add a glow to any room.  

Material matters  

This season, we’ll be seeing more shapes, materials and textures that produce a soft glow just by their very nature. “I think 2026 is going to be all about lighting that feels modern but really natural and refined,” says designer Jessica Nicastro. “Finishes are getting softer and more textured, nothing too shiny, so the light kind of glows rather than reflects. It’s all about sculptural pieces that feel sleek and intentional, without trying too hard.”  

Consider materials such as ceramic and porcelain, folded to look softer, as well as organics like handblown or sandblasted glass, paper thin marble, nostalgic rattan and woven grass strands.  

Back to front 

 To create a much gentler glow, it makes sense to actually block the bulb itself with something more solid like metal, wood or stone to let the light ebb and flow. This philosophy can be applied to stand-alones such as a wall sconce, table lamp or lighting built into the architecture such as inside a bookcase or between a kitchen counter and the low cabinet above it. It can be applied to harnessing natural light, too: think stain-glass windows and doors, sun lights and glass room dividers. Thin, artistic wall panel lights are bringing ambience to dining rooms and lounges alike this year, working hard in the background. 

Charge up 

A silver lining of loadshedding was the advent of more practical yet design-forward rechargeable lamps. What started as moody features on restaurant tables has migrated to home cocktail carts, dining room tables and even bedside pedestals. Their portable nature means they can bring warmth to smaller, more awkward parts of the home that could really use some shine too — think of a small entrance, a top bunk or a lonely corner of a kitchen counter. Plus, it adds a sparkle of the unexpected. Many are dimmable, making them ideal to cast a good glow wherever, and whenever, you need it. 

Words: Christi Nortier
Photography: Future

Also read: How to adapt these African decor styles into your own home 

The post How to bring low-key lighting into your home appeared first on TFG Media.

Books have always held the power to transport us – whether it’s to imaginary realms or far-flung corners of the globe. Much like travel, they expose us to new experiences, moods and atmospheres, shaping the way we see the world. A beautifully bound book can be a journey in itself, a portal to discovery without ever leaving your room.  

In the travel storytelling space, luxury lifestyle company and publisher Assouline captures this essence masterfully. Since the mid-90s, the brand has redefined the art of the illustrated book, creating works that are as tactile and luxurious as the destinations they celebrate. Their ‘Travel from Home’ series is an invitation to explore iconic cities and landscapes through vibrant covers, rich photography and evocative narratives. Each volume is a curated escape, perfect for your coffee table. 

We feature four books from four continents that elevate armchair travel to a luxurious experience. 

The Greek Islands (Europe) 

@jetsetscoop The @assouline Greek Islands book is your passport to sun-soaked elegance — and these luxe essentials complete the fantasy: @guccibeauty Guilty Eau de Toilette — a bold scent for golden hours and Greek nights. @capribluecandles Volcano hand cream — tropical citrus heaven in your carry-on. @theouai Wave Spray — effortless, wind-tousled hair that says “I woke up in Mykonos.” @olehenriksen Truth Serum — that Vitamin C glow that matches the Aegean sunset. Ready to channel your inner Greek goddess? #JetSetScoop #GreekIslands #Assouline #LuxuryTravel #Mediterranean ♬ Greek islands – Guitar chords & Guitar Duo

The Greek Islands is one of Assouline’s bestsellers for good reason. With over 200 illustrations, it captures both the timeless beauty and the modern vibrancy of Greece’s most celebrated islands.  

From Hydra to Santorini’s cinematic cliffs, the book celebrates the duality of the Greek spirit: ancient yet alive, serene yet electric. Authored by Chrysanthos Panas with photography by Katerina Katopis-Lykiardopulo, this volume doesn’t just showcase views – it invites you aboard a traditional sailboat, recreating the odyssey of discovery and hospitality that Greece embodies.  

Miami Beach (North America)  

Some cities hum, others pulse and according to many, Miami Beach positively dances. This book captures the city in all its sun-drenched, art deco, neon glory. Here, old-world glamour and modern extravagance coexist: Joe’s Stone Crab thrives beside avant-garde dining and art deco architecture meets cutting-edge design.  

From the iconic Wynwood Walls to the electric atmosphere of Art Basel, Miami’s evolution is chronicled with verve. This is a city where yachts glint against turquoise waters by day, and nightlife dazzles by moonlight  

Marrakech Flair (Africa)  

To step into Marrakech is to awaken every sense. This volume captures the city’s spellbinding spirit, where zellige tiles glisten, spices perfume the air and the hum of Jemaa el-Fnaa fills the Medina. Dubbed the “Ochre City” for its sandstone walls, Marrakech has long been a muse for tastemakers.  

The book moves between storied hotels such as La Mamounia, the lush riads of El Fenn and the souks alive with artisanship. With photography and narrative that celebrates both heritage and contemporary life, Marrakech Flair is as layered and colourful as the city itself. Just like a glass of mint tea in a shaded courtyard, it is both vibrant and calming, familiar yet endlessly exotic.  

Kyoto Serenity (Japan) 

If Miami is rhythm and Marrakech is spice, then Kyoto is silence. This book distils the tranquil essence of Japan’s cultural heartland. Wooden teahouses, cherry blossoms in ephemeral bloom and temple gardens designed for contemplation — every image whispers calm.  

Yet Kyoto is not static. The vibrancy of Gion Matsuri, where festival floats parade like kinetic artworks, reveals the city’s lively spirit. Kyoto Serenity juxtaposes the delicate restraint of Japanese design with the exuberance of its traditions, offering a portrait of a place that embodies both stillness and celebration. 

 *All books are available from assouline.com and skins.co.za.

Words: Mecayla Maseka
Photography: Supplied

Also read: 5 Books about discipline and good habits to keep on your nightstand  

The post Coffee table books worth a read  appeared first on TFG Media.

African design is a mosaic of different styles, patterns, textures and expressions. Shaped by centuries of artisanal craftsmanship, oral tradition, migration and ritual, it offers a visual language that’s rooted in each of the respective locale and culture. Whether handwoven, hand carved or handed down, African design reflects the beauty of landscapes and the people who inhabit them. From Morocco’s maximalism to Uganda’s intricate weaving, African aesthetics are anchored by its people, so we’ve highlighted a few destinations across the continent that showcase this diversity and how you can incorporate these design styles into your home.  

Morocco 

Influenced by its landscapes and diverse history, Moroccan design is characteristically sensorial, blending Andalusian architecture and Islamic artistry with shapes, patterns and colours that speak to the North African country’s cultural heritage. This cultural layering is reflected in its interior design style, where colour and comfort are paramount, creating spaces that are instantly recognisable and maximalist yet curated. Tactility is what sets Moroccan design apart: surfaces are rarely flat or undecorated, and every texture tells a story. Handwoven Berber rugs ground spaces in warmth and tradition, while carved wood features and accents in brass or hammered silver are staples. Intricate zellij tiles, arched doorways, arabesque motifs and lanterns evoke a sense of tradition. They also maintain a contemporary feel, where ornate details meet earthen tones to create its distinct visual language.  

To bring this style into your own home, opt for handwoven kilims or rugs to instantly bring texture into the space or a colour palette inspired by North African landscapes, such as sand, taupe, beige, royal blue and terracotta. Add in brass accents, low-slung seating and tactile ceramics for a space that feels grounded and cosy. You can even incorporate tagines, wooden bowls and hand-painted ceramics on the kitchen counter for good measure. Moroccan style is all about colour and expression, so go wild with textures, fabrics and patterns to create a space that makes you feel like you’re in a riad in Marrakech. 

 

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South Africa  

South Africa is where contemporary design and traditional craft coexist effortlessly, culminating in design expressions that vary from Cape Dutch architecture to colourful Ndebele patterns. The country’s style is richly layered: you’ll find interiors that embrace contrast, such as industrial materials warmed up with natural finishes, and African antiques styled alongside modern art.  

South Africa’s diverse landscapes, from the wilderness of the Kruger to the bustling streets of Johannesburg, allow for multiple design languages to be incorporated into your home. This cultural depth translates beautifully into interiors: cowhide rugs over concrete floors, carved wooden stools and headrests, and walls adorned with contemporary art or photography that honours traditional forms or places. South African style is about storytelling and the best place to start is with textiles. Shweshwe fabrics make for striking upholstery, cushion covers or table runners, while Basotho blankets over a sofa or bed add warmth and a tactile richness. For a more subtle approach, draw from the country’s natural palette: earthy reds, clay browns, ochres and muted greens. Mix these tones with organic materials such as wood, leather and stone to create a backdrop that allows handcrafted elements to shine. In a South African-inspired interior, every object holds meaning. It’s a celebration of diversity and creativity. 

@rafaels.restoration The bespoke Ndebele-inspired accent wall is complete . 🇿🇦🎨 I really had fun doing this wall and expressing South African culture with a modern flip straight into the bedroom. Sleeptite Mzanzi!!! #AccentWallMagic #FinishedProject #SouthAfrican #wallart #decor #homedecor #MzansiMasterpiece #southafrica #capetown #bedroom #renovation ♬ Mwaki – Zerb

Uganda  

Uganda may not be as internationally known for a singular interior design style as Morocco or South Africa, but it has a distinct aesthetic rooted in craft and regional traditions. Ugandan interior design is usually grounded in nature, drawing heavily from the country’s rural traditions and abundant natural resources as well as indigenous materials such as banana fibre, papyrus reeds and clay. Olubugo, commonly known as barkcloth, is made from the bark of Mutuba trees and is one of Uganda’s oldest and most distinctive materials. Traditionally, barkcloth was used as clothes to distinguish members of royalty and commoners. But its rich, red-brown colour and its soft texture make it the ideal upholstery for contemporary interior settings. Think tapestries or room dividers.  

Basketry is another key element in Ugandan design. Intricately handwoven from raffia and palm, baskets are both decorative and utilitarian, bringing warmth and texture to interiors. Although traditionally used for carrying produce, in contemporary interiors, they fit in perfectly with bohemian-style interiors. In parts of Uganda, colourfully dyed palm raffia is wrapped around a coil of bukedo, the local term for banana leaf stalks. These handwoven baskets feature one-of-a-kind designs and look gorgeous filling an entire wall, or as a decorative element on a table or shelf. 

Nigeria  

Nigeria’s design identity is as bold, energetic and diverse as its inhabitants. Lagos, specifically, is a nexus of contemporary creativity, but traditional influences remain strong, from Benin bronzes to the indigo-dyed Adire textiles of the Yoruba. Colour, as seen in most Afrocentric design, takes precedence in Nigerian interiors, and is often warm and earthy. Think terracotta, ochre, deep reds and browns. Tribal masks, sculptures and figurines are used as prominent decor elements, often representing ancestral spirits and a deep sense of cultural richness. Another fundamental aspect of Nigerian interiors is the inclusion of woven textiles and fabrics. Traditional Nigerian textiles such as the popular Aso Oke and Adire (traditional Yoruba textiles) are used for upholstery, curtains and scatter cushions.  

On the other hand, modern Nigerian interiors often fuse global aesthetics with local forms, where minimalist spaces come alive with Ankara (a colourful textile widely popular in Nigeria and West Africa) accents, carved stools and brass details. Furniture is often hand-carved and meaningful, while colour is used with purpose and confidence. To infuse Nigerian flair into your home, start with the textiles mentioned above. They offer an immediate sense of texture, history and identity. Layer Adire throws over neutral-toned sofas, upholster dining chairs in Aso Oke for a tactile statement, or use Ankara prints as bold bursts of colour in otherwise pared-back spaces. Nigerian design is fearless and full of expression, decorative yet rich in culture and African pride. 

Words: Shai Rama
Photography: Future Hub, Bureaux, Pexels, Supplied, Courtesy Images

Also read: How to break these decor rules

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Pleasant warmth relaxes the limbs, while beguiling fragrances pamper the senses. Enjoying a bath in your own bathroom provides a moment of peace, relaxation and regeneration – one of the best ways to escape the stresses of our everyday lives. 

The design of the new Geberit Tawa built-in bathtub offers an indulgent bathing experience. The sense of well-being is supported by the smooth surface of the high-quality acrylic bathtub material, which is not only pleasant and warm to the touch, but also easy to clean. Available in both single and duo models, with the drain in the middle or at the foot end, the ergonomically designed back section offers maximum reclining comfort.  

SLEEK ELEGANCE 

With its slim rim design and combination of organic and geometric shapes, the new Tawa sanitary acrylic bathtub looks minimalist yet comfortable. Its ergonomically designed back section offers maximum reclining comfort. 

VARIOUS MODELS AND SIZES AVAILABLE

As a rectangular bathtub single and duo, it comes in six sizes. The outlet of the single tubs is at the foot of the bath; they are extremely comfortable for one person lying down in the tub. The duo tubs are chamfered on both sides so that two people can sit or lie in the tub together comfortably. In this case, there is a central outlet. 

The Tawa bathtub stands out due to its sleek and elegant design which fits effortlessly into any bathroom layout. 

EXTREMELY NARROW TUB EDGE 

The slim rim is the highlight of the Geberit Tawa bathtub. The tub edge at a height of just 1.5 cm discreetly harmonises with other furnishings almost seamlessly.  

The Tawa bathtub is made of sanitary acrylic, which immediately feels warm and soft unlike its steel counterparts. 

Treat yourself to a little spa feeling through the pure joy of bathing. 

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1. Get the hang of it

 It might seem obvious, but consider grouping clothes of the same length in the hanging space of your closet. Not only is this the first step toward a more organised space, it also prevents items from snagging on each other and getting damaged. The second step? Arranging clothes by colour. Don’t laugh, we’re serious. You’ll agree when you see how much easier it is to put an outfit together the next time you’re getting dressed. Invest in good-quality wooden hangers or non-slip ones covered in a velvety fabric. Matching hangers will stack easily, another useful tool when it comes to creating order.

2. Stash the seasonals

Store season-specific clothes such as swimming costumes or beanies in baskets. Keep the current season’s essentials on a shelf that’s easy to reach and the other bundle lower down. When the seasons change, simply swap the baskets around. Storing seasonal items like this means they will also be within easy reach if there’s a cold spell or a sudden heatwave. If you’re doing a proper summer to winter wardrobe swap, keep your clothes in canvas bags that will allow items to breathe while protecting them from pesky pests.

 3. Store scarves on ladders

Scarves are often works of art, and it seems a shame to bundle them up in the back of a cupboard. Why not make the most of their colour and texture by displaying them on a ladder? Choose a smooth wood so the threads don’t snag, and drape or tie them over the rungs. Got a glass bowl you can repurpose? Fold up your silk scarves and layer them in the bowl to show off their captivating colours. If space is short, consider folding scarves into rectangles. Pile them in a stack, then stand the stack up in a box so you can see exactly what’s what from above.

 4. Don’t toss out shoe boxes

When it comes to storing shoes, there are all sorts of gadgets you can buy. From shoe racks to organisers that can be stored under your bed, there’s something for a space of every size. But shoes comes with their own storage solution – shoe boxes! If you don’t want to splurge on clear perspex shoe boxes, stash the shoes in the boxes they came in from the store. Take snaps of each pair, print the pics out and attach the photos to the outside of each box so you don’t have to open countless lids to check what’s inside. Practical footwear like sandy slops and muddy running shoes are best popped into baskets on the bottom shelf of your closet.

5. Use your shelves

It’s tempting to hang every item of clothing, but it might do some of them more harm than good. Fabric such as fine cotton, chunky wool and even synthetic materials used to make most activewear will stretch out of shape over time if they are hung on hangers. It’s a better idea to allocate a shelf to different types of clothing (for example, pyjamas, T-shirts and jerseys) and start repacking from there. Clear storage boxes can be stacked on shelves, creating more space. They will also keep chaos at bay by containing clothes as you search for what you want. We all know of the Marie Kondo folding method for a reason: it works!

6. Down to the wire

We’ve all done it – the mad morning scramble to find a matching set of underwear. Save your favourite bras by fixing their clasps, laying them flat, and stacking them back-to-back inside a drawer. Not only does this help preserve the shape of the bra, it will also help you find what you’re looking for in an instant. Avoid storing panties, hosiery and lingerie in the same drawer – they’re called delicates for a reason! Though we advise keeping panties in a separate drawer, we are a fan of this neat trick: tucking the bra’s matching panties into the cup for easy storage.

Words by Christi Nortier

The post Maximising Your Closet Space 101 appeared first on TFG Media.

Creating A Flex Room 101 

Having an open-plan home can be a game-changer. It’s open, airy, and inviting. Decorating and spacing it, however, can get tricky. We share tips on how to help you create flexible spaces in your home without creating awkward barriers or any renovations of any form by using colour, sofas and chairs, screens and room dividers, and built-in furniture 

1. Sliding Doors  

Installing a farmhouse door is a simple way to partition a space and create a threshold. It’s budget-friendly, too. You don’t even need a lintel, just a rail at the top and a track at the bottom.  

2. Chair Crazy  

When using furniture to separate a space, the back of a sofa can create an awkward barrier. Opt instead for statement chairs to draw a line across a room without stopping movement and flow. 

3. Book-Smart 

An open-plan room can still feel spacious if you use an open bookcase or shelving unit as the dividing line. If you don’t want to commit to a built-in unit, opt for shelves you can shift on castors.  

Open shelves won’t obstruct light or your line of sight. Decorate with books, objects and houseplants to add texture to the display. 

4. Must Multitask

If you’ve used a kitchen island or cabinet to divide two rooms, consider backing up another piece of furniture against  it so that both sides are appealing and functional. 

This retro sideboard, which can hold a collection of crockery or double as a drinks cabinet, does a great job of masking the negative space created by the built-in kitchen counter. 

Words by: Ingrid Corbett 

Photography by: Adobe Stock, Getty Images

The post 4 Simple Ways To Liven Up An Open-Plan Space appeared first on TFG Media.

A vintage sideboard crafted from weathered wood, a custom-made cabinet that holds a collection of books, a coffee table dotted with stains left by cups of coffee was suddenly seen with new eyes.  

These pieces most likely have one distinct feature in common: the hard horizontal lines that have defined interior design for more than a decade. But post-pandemic, there has been a shift towards smooth-edged design that echoes the serenity of nature.  

Meet Designer Mpho Vackier 

For engineer-turned-furniture designer Mpho Vackier, the resurgence of softer edges and more gentle curves is a direct response to the ‘global need for comfort’. 

Founder of TheUrbanative, a multi-award-winning furniture and product design company, Vackier is committed to ‘telling contemporary African stories’ through collaboration in craft and design. ‘I’m not a fan of the limitations implied by the term “trend”,’ explains Vackier, who is wary that it is often linked to a fleeting moment of excitement that results in an unsustainable approach when it comes to execution.  

‘I believe that as we evolve, guided by events that shape the world we live in, we should be able to look to design to make things better.’ According to Vackier, the recent resurgence of curved lines is an organic reaction to the need for comfort.  

Curved lines have always been prominent in TheUrbanative designs, and feature in the studio’s most recent celebrated collection, ‘Homecoming’. ‘Softer lines create a sense of comfort and familiarity,’ explains Vackier.  

‘They are easier on the eye than angular, hard edges, creating a more organic outline, which we associate with a sense of safety.’ ‘Living with nature is possibly the biggest global trend right now,’ says multi-award-winning furniture and interior designer, Haldane Martin.  

His innovative namesake brand, Haldane, has made local and international audiences sit up and take notice. Ahead of the curve, Martin’s iconic Songololo Sofa, which mimics the shape of a millipede, was first revealed 15 years ago at Design Indaba, breaking the constraints imposed by trends at the time.  

Curved furniture and decor accents are extremely versatile and can work with most styles. By simply changing their texture and colour you can evoke the glamour of the Roaring 20s or the mid-century aesthetic of the 50s.  

The iconic Songololo Sofa by Haldane has been re-engineered for outdoor living in 2022. It now comes in top-class durable outdoor fabric by Sunbrella and is kitted out with UV-stable powder-coated aluminium that comes in 20 shades.  

‘It has become increasingly important that humanity expresses a vested interest in the preservation of nature’, says Martin. ‘In art, fashion, design and architecture we are able to appreciate nature and herald its forms, materials and processes. In the natural world, we see plentiful rounded forms.’ For Martin, roundness is pure, friendly and familiar.  

‘It is the absence of sharpness,’ he explains. ‘Subconsciously, it reads as unity, harmony and continuity.’ According to Martin, the idea of luxury has changed for a lot of people. ‘There has been an important shift from the accumulation of stuff to an accumulation of peace.  

Stillness and safety are desirable. Living with nature is the new luxury.’ Haldane’s designs have always embraced curvature ‘to accentuate the friendliness of the furniture’. Martin points out that the body is not made of straight lines, so anything that touches the body should be ergonomic.  

On the one hand, this recent renewed appreciation of ergonomic design is a result of our need for a sense of comfort. On the other, it also draws from the rich pool of biomorphic design, which is a philosophy that takes its cue from nature and is inspired by the flowing lines of plants, animals and landscapes.  

So, how do you bring this principle into your own home? ‘Don’t design your life around others,’ advises Martin. ‘Design is personal. Figure out what you want to feel when you experience your space and let that guide the choices that you make. Vackier agrees: ‘Do what feels good. Make your home truly yours.’  

There has been an important shift from the accumulation of stuff to an accumulation of peace

A Sense of Home  

The ‘Homecoming’ collection is inspired by African architecture and designed to evoke the feelings we associate with home. The furniture is handmade in Africa with natural and recycled materials.  

– Mykonos Metal Jug-Vase Small 25x11x11cm R 499  

– Floor Lamp Luna With Terazzo 155cm R 1 999  

– Mykonos Metal Belly-Vase Medium 34.5x17x17cm R 649  

– Isabella 4 seater velvet R 29 999  

– Pillar candle door ivory 12 R199  

– Rotunda dining chair fibreguard velvet R2 499  

– Cap Martin Side Table Adjustable Glass R 3 499  

*All available at selected @home stores and online at www.home.co.za. Prices correct at time of publishing* 

The Marenco sofa, designed by Italian architect Mario Marenco, has been released in outdoor fabric and has kept its iconic plush look.  

The post 2022 Top Décor Trend: Embracing The Curves appeared first on TFG Media.

Here are five places you probably didn’t know need a clean:

1. Coffee machine

How often do you deep-clean your coffee machine? You may throw out the leftover coffee and rinse it with water every day, but that is not enough. To get rid of pesky stains, give your machine a thorough clean once a week.

Cleaning tip: Run a brewing cycle with 2 tablespoons of white vinegar mixed into the water content, followed by a couple of cycles of clean water in your drip coffee maker. You’ll enjoy that next cuppa joe so much more knowing your machine is sparkling from the inside out.

2. Ice maker

Take a very close look at your ice machine – when was the last time you gave it a good scrub? You may not realise it, but a dirty ice maker affects the taste of your water you pour into it. It’s a best to clean this appliance at least twice a year.

Cleaning tip: Unplug your refrigerator and take out the ice bin. Empty the container and clean it with dishwashing liquid and warm water. (You can substitute the soap with 2 tablespoons of vinegar if you’d prefer). Once you’ve cleaned your machine, plug the fridge back in and push the button to make a fresh batch of ice. Remember to check your filters at least once a month and replace them every six months.

3. Pillows

Our pillowcases are regulars in the washing machine, but we often neglect to clean our pillows. That trusted pillow you rest your head on every night could be a breeding ground for bacteria – think sweat, saliva and even oils. Yuck!

Cleaning tip: Read the cleaning instructions on the label before you attempt to wash a pillow. If your washing machine has a gentle wash cycle, throw the pillows in and run them in for a wash complete with detergent. Hang the pillow up in the sun or pop them in the dryer with two tennis balls. (The tennis balls will prevent the filling in the pillows from clumping.)

4. Ceiling fans

They keep us cool during summer and can add a decorative touch to a room – but how often do you clean your ceiling fan when it’s not in use? Before you turn on your fan the next time the temperature rises, stop and take a look at the top of the blades. You may just find they are covered in sheets of dust!

Cleaning tip: Slip a pillowcase over each blade to lightly wipe off the dust (this is a clever trick so the dust won’t go flying). Dip a microfibre cloth in all-purpose cleaner mixed with warm water and wipe again. Ensure that the fan is completely dry before switching it on. Now you can enjoy a dust-free breeze!

5. Washing machine

Even though we use our washing machine to clean our dirty laundry, we often forget to clean out the inside of the washing machine itself (ironic, we know).  Failing to clean your washer can lead to a build-up of dirt, grime and bacteria that can filter into your clothes. You should give your machine a good clean at least once a month.

Cleaning tip: Add four cups of white vinegar to the drum or pour it into the slot where you add your detergent. Set your machine to the 90°C and let it run through a full cycle. Add half a cup of baking soda and let it run for another cycle. Once finished, wipe the inside with a damp microfibre cloth. After this, your machine will be as clean as a whistle (and your clothes).

The post 5 Places You Should be Cleaning In Your House appeared first on TFG Media.