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Author Archives: dev
Shop the Autumn Drop
Autumn Sale is now on at Adairs!
Snuggle up with savings this Autumn!
As the leaves turn red and the weather begins to cool, its time to take stock of our styling. Autumn is a time to recharge and reinvent; a time for transformation and new projects.
Save up to 30% on selected new arrivals*. Plus, Linen Lovers save a further 5% always!
*T&Cs apply. See in-store for details.
UP TO 50% OFF POCKET SPRING MATTRESSES AT SLEEPY’S
Together in tranquility with a pocket spring mattress!
Designed to reduce motion across the mattress, pocket springs help you sleep soundly. With up to 50% off Pocket Spring mattresses for a limited time, hurry into Sleepy’s at Homemaker The Valley today and be fitted to a mattress which suits you!
*Terms and conditions apply. Sale runs 1 – 31 March 2024. See staff for full details. Full T&C’s here.
Harvest home: how to achieve an Australian farmhouse
As the air takes on a crisp edge and autumn hits, there’s something inviting about the idea of nestling into a space styled with a modern farmhouse aesthetic – it’s homely, cosy, and above all else, comfortable (all of which are exactly what one needs during the autumn months).
At its core, the farmhouse style is all about celebrating the beauty of imperfection. Reclaimed wood, industrial fixtures, and vintage-inspired décor come together to create a space that feels lived in and loved. While the term farmhouse might make you think of rolling fields and rustic barns, you don’t actually need to live anywhere near a farm to pull off the trend. With a few key elements, a keen eye for detail, and a trip to Homemaker The Valley, you can transform any space into a harvest home.
Eureka Furniture Farmhouse Paddle $99, Eureka Furniture Ravenswood Bookcase $1,299, Freedom Ulla Table Lamp $349, Freedom Westport Fabric Armchair $1,499, Provincial Home Living Loch Barn Print $199.95, Provincial Home Living Campaign Image.
Defining farmhouse style
Before hitting the store it’s important to understand exactly what modern farmhouse style is so that you can easily identify pieces that will work for you.
Farmhouse style is refreshingly uncomplicated with a homespun charm that instantly puts you at ease. Décor pieces are to be chosen carefully, with a nod to history and antiques. Think barn-style furnishings such as wooden chairs combined with industrial-inspired fixtures like lights, trims, and handles. The beauty of farmhouse style lies in balance, so be sure not to go overboard and remember to keep a minimal approach.
Key elements for the Australian farmhouse
If you’re on the hunt for some key furniture pieces to suit this trend, be sure to select items for their durability and comfort. Practicality is key – comfortable seating and ample storage solutions will make everyday living a breeze. Whereas for décor, less is often more. We recommend keeping patterns simple and understated, opting for some open shelving that displays natural elements like dried flowers, woven baskets, and pottery.
Colour palette: a nod to nature
The farmhouse style tends to favour natural hues inspired by the great outdoors. While white and black are always popular choices, there’s plenty of room to explore shades of brown, deep greens, and soft beige. You can showcase many of these colours through furniture made from natural materials like timber and stone. Find out how you can use colour to create various atmospheres and moods within your home in our colour psychology lowdown.
Now that you know the basics of modern farmhouse style, it’s time to transform your space! Be sure to head in centre at Homemaker The Valley to discover an array of furnishings and décor that can help you bring this trend to life.
Looking for more home styling advice? Check out our latest seasonal trend report filled with décor inspiration, interior trends, tips and tricks, and so much more!
Little wonders: how to prepare a nursery
Expecting parents have a lot to consider when waiting for a baby to arrive. There are hospital bags to pack, car seats to install, baby showers to plan, and diapers to buy – and that’s all before there’s a tiny human to raise!
However, one of the most exciting tasks to ponder before your newborn arrives has got to be the baby nursery decor; the design, theme, and purchasing all the essentials.
The nursery is about to be a place where you’ll spend many hours of your time for feeding, changing, or putting your little one to sleep (or should we say attempting to). So, you’ll want to invest some much-needed time, effort, and funds into ensuring your nursery is decked out exactly how it should be.
We want you to have one less thing to worry about when your newborn arrives, so we’ve compiled everything you need to know into one place. Read on to learn all about navigating your new nursery.
Adairs Boucle Rocking Chair $699.99, Adairs Trip Triceratops Chair $79.99, Baby Bunting Boori 3 Tier Changer $269, Baby Bunting Ergopouch Cocoon $49.95, Baby Bunting Living Textiles Cotton Rope Storage Set $39.95, Baby Bunting Zazu Nightlight $59.95, DecoRug Luka Shaggy Colour Rug from $199, Forty Winks Boori Corindi Cot $649, Freedom Mornington Dresser $1,699, Harvey Norman Owlet Cam $249.
Designing your baby nursery
There are four main factors to consider when designing your nursery – the placement of the cot, glider, changing table, and storage drawers.
Furniture Placement
The cot should be positioned first and should be placed away from any windows or doors to limit temperature changes, air drafts, and light exposure. Next up, place your glider (aka feeding chair) into a corner nook, ensuring it has enough space around it to rock. Once the cot and chair are placed, slot the drawers and changing table in the leftover space.
Tip: For those who are working with a smaller space, we recommend using your chest of drawers as a changing table as well.
Lighting
Now that all the key pieces are appropriately placed, it’s time to sort out the lighting. Having a dark room will promote the release of melatonin (the hormone that helps us to both fall asleep and stay asleep). So, be sure to purchase block-out blinds as these will keep the room dark for both nap time and night time. You’ll also want to limit any artificial light such as baby monitors – place these away from the cot so that the light isn’t in the baby’s line of sight when they’re in the cot.
Our guide to baby nursery décor
Now onto the fun part – the décor! Before getting carried away with an elaborate theme, it’s important to keep in mind the top priority of a nursery and that’s for it to be conducive to sleep. You’ll want your newborn to be exposed to as little stimulation as possible, so avoid using too many decorative pieces that can distract them. Refrain from placing toys or hanging mobiles in and above the cot, in fact, we recommend no toys in the cot until four months of age, which also happens to be the optimal time to introduce a comforter.
This doesn’t mean you can’t have a super stylish nursery – you can still stick to a colour palette so the room is cohesive with the rest of your home. Start with a neutral base for the furniture and then add accent lighting, wallpaper, artwork, rugs, and more. Even if tastes change, your accent pieces can easily be swapped out while keeping large investment pieces the same.
Tip: incorporate thick pile rugs and drapes throughout the room to help absorb outside noise.
The nursery essentials
Lastly, it’s time to ensure you have all the essentials for a functional nursery. First up, it’s important to baby-proof the room – secure blinds and electrical cords, keep any medicines out of reach, and set up a baby monitor.
Next, purchase a white noise machine (this will help silence your baby’s built-in alarm clock by drowning out all outside noises during vulnerable phases of light sleep), a swaddle (to make your baby feel safe and comforted), a dim nightlight (to help navigate night time feeding), and of course, nappies, bedding, toys, and clothes.
There you have it! We hope this helps you style your nursery for your newborn. Be sure to download our first-time parent nursery checklist here to better prepare you for the arrival of your little one.
Twilight entertaining: how to revamp your outdoor area for autumn
It’s no secret Aussies love the great outdoors. Whether it’s soaking up the fresh air or lounging around under the sun, there’s a special kind of joy that comes with outdoor living. Luckily, we’re blessed with fantastic weather for most of the year and as autumn settles in, now is the perfect time to update your outdoor entertaining area with a cosy touch. But how can you achieve this? Keep reading for a detailed guide on creating a warm and inviting twilight entertaining experience.
Early Settler Fleetwood Fire Pit $249, Eureka Furniture Solar Patio Arm Chair $1,499, Freedom Mali Round Outdoor Floor Rug $249, Oz Design Mansfield Cushion $79.95, Provincial Home Living Polly Lantern $69.95, Sheridan Outlet Morillo Throw $199.99.
Step 1: set the scene with lighting
Autumn evenings call for gentle illumination that adds warmth and ambience to your outdoor space. String lights, lanterns, and candles are perfect for achieving this type of cosy atmosphere. Consider hanging fairy lights across trees or pergolas, placing lanterns along pathways, and scattering candles on tables for an inviting glow your guests will love.
Step 2: create comfortable seating areas
Invest in comfortable outdoor furniture that encourages comfort and relaxation. Opt for plush cushions, throws, and blankets in autumnal hues like burnt orange, deep red, and earthy browns to add warmth and style to your seating areas. Arrange chairs and sofas around the firepit to create a focal point that will entice guests to gather and linger.
Step 3: cosy up with a firepit
A firepit is the quintessential autumn accessory! Choose a firepit that complements your outdoor décor and will enhance the overall aesthetic of your space. Whether you prefer a sleek modern design, rustic, traditional look, a well-placed firepit will undoubtedly become the heart of your outdoor entertaining area. Take our quiz to discover your interior design style.
Step 4: serve up seasonal treats
No outdoor gathering is complete without delicious food and drinks to enjoy. Incorporate the flavours of autumn by serving hearty soups, roasted vegetables, and decadent desserts like apple pie. Pair these seasonal treats with mulled wine, spiced cider, or hot chocolate for a cosy experience that warms both the body and soul.
By following these tips and ideas, you can easily create a cosy outdoor entertaining area that embraces the beauty of an Australian autumn. With the addition of pieces from Homemaker The Valley, you’ll have everything you need to enjoy memorable evenings under the open sky.
Looking for more home styling advice? Check out our latest seasonal trend report filled with décor inspiration, interior trends, tips and tricks, and so much more!
Our Round-up of The 5 Best Space Saving Furniture Options For Small Apartment Living in The Valley
Here at Homemaker The Valley we know that space saving furniture is essential when living in the inner city. With apartment buildings popping up in and around Fortitude Valley in the blink of an eye, we are finding more and more people looking for smart furniture solutions for their compact living spaces. With open plan living spaces growing smaller and smaller and multi-purpose zones becoming the norm, clever furniture design and placement needs to be considered when designing a home. Today we will be sharing with you our favourite space saving furniture pieces that are essential for inner-city living.
Extendable Dining Table
If you have a small dining space but love to host regular dinners with the entire family or have all the friends around for lunch, then you need to invest in an extendable dining table. These smart, space saving dining table designs allow you to have the joy of hosting all your loved ones on special occasions and the simplicity of a standard sized table during day-to-day life. With an easy lift of a few panels, the dining table extends from a standard 4-6 seater to as large as an 8-10 seater. Check out stores at Homemaker The Valley such as Freedom, Nick Scali and Domayne for some beautiful extendable dining tables in your favourite interior design style. We especially love the Kalbarri round extension dining table from Domayne that goes from a compact circle to large oval size.
Under Bed Storage
When selecting space saving furniture for your home you can’t go passed a bed with under bed storage. Whether you prefer a gas lift style or drawers under your bed, retailers such as Forty Winks and Domayne have a range of options at various price points. Under the bed is the perfect place to store seasonal items like winter coats, accessories, swimwear and beach towels. It can also be a great location to store bedlinen if your apartment or home is lacking a laundry or linen cupboard. You do not need to compromise on look when opting for an under-bed storage solution as you can choose a style, material and colour to suit your specific interior design style.
Multi-purpose Furniture
As our homes become smaller and we prioritise location and lifestyle over size, we must make smart decisions when it comes to space saving furniture to maximise the feel of our rooms. When selecting each piece for your home, make sure and consider its storage capacity as well as the appearance. For example, when choosing bedside tables, opt for a style that has large drawers and a cupboard instead of a single drawer or stool style. The same principal can be applied when purchasing items like console tables, coffee tables, entertainment units and buffets.
Storage Ottomans
Storage ottomans are another great space saving furniture solution as they can be multi-purpose and serve a multitude of needs. We suggest using a storage ottoman instead of a coffee table in the living room as it allows you to store seasonal blankets and cushions within. Simply add a tray with some coasters and a few home décor pieces for a styled look. Ottomans can also be used as footrests when a living room is too small for a chaise or corner lounge and create another seating option when guests visit.
Tall Bookcases
A common mistake when decorating a small home is to not make use of walls and the height of the ceiling. There is prime storage real estate on walls that can be maximised through furniture and décor pieces like floating shelves and bookcases. We love using tall bookcases in areas such as the living room, dining room and study to store a variety of items. To avoid a cluttered look, we suggest choosing a bookcase that has cupboards as well as shelves to ensure some items can be hidden away out of plain sight. We love this beautiful white hutch style bookcase from Provincial Home Living that allows for plenty of storage.
Shop Space Saving Furniture at Homemaker The Valley
Our amazing retailers offer an array of furniture options to suit every size, style and budget. Shop our favourite recommendations for stylish, space saving furniture at our convenient location in Fortitude Valley. For more seasonal design trends and tips like balancing function and style, visit our Home Collective blog.
Top four summer entertaining trends
Summer has finally arrived and with the change of season comes a new appreciation for our outdoor spaces! There’s no denying that the weather is close to perfect and we think that calls for a celebration of our hard-working front yards, backyards, patios, and other open-air spaces (you know, the spots that are dedicated to entertaining).
With that in mind, it comes as no surprise that outdoor trends are starting to rival the number of indoor trends! Keen to know more about the latest craze in the interior space (or should we say exterior space)? Below we’ve gathered some of the top outdoor entertaining trends.
Front yard focus
Enhancing front yard areas is becoming more popular than ever before and rightfully so. This space is so often forgotten about, yet it’s the very first area your guests will see upon arrival. We’re seeing front yard makeovers everywhere and they’re certainly upping the curb appeal of houses as a whole.
So, what are some key elements to incorporate in an on-trend front yard? For starters, manicured lawn is a must (no explanation needed). You’ll also want to think about symmetry –frame your front door with potted plants or incorporate symmetry into your landscaping. Rid the space of unwanted weeds and dirt (yes, time to pull out the weed killer and pressure cleaner). Lastly, if you have the space, consider adding a seating area. This could be a singular floating chaise or a pair of outdoor armchairs.
Tuscan design elements
Dreaming of summertime in Tuscany? Why not create the same feel at home? Tuscan-style décor is in with its warm colours, natural elements, and a touch of rustic charm. This trend is all-encompassing, so to successfully pull it off, Tuscan additions are required to all areas of your outdoor space. Invest in wall hangings, ceramics, sculptures, terracotta pottery, and wrought iron furniture. Plant a variety of traditional plants like rosemary, olive trees, and lavender, and lastly consider an overall colour scheme – stick to olive greens, deep oranges, and even maroon.
Outdoor rooms
Much like the concept of open floor plan living, we’re seeing a trend develop where larger outdoor spaces are being divided into distinct areas or “rooms.” This includes outdoor kitchens, the use of pergolas, and contemporary poolside styling. Backyards now house multiple sections for seating, dining, and relaxation, rather than a single focal point.
Tip: if you’re struggling to create a divide between sections, look to the earth! Break up the areas by changing the flooring or ground texture. We recommend the use of gravel, tiles, and fresh grass.
Bold colours
Go bold with colours and say goodbye to muted hues with bright tablescapes, outdoor rugs, cushions, and statement furnishings. Minimalism is out and maximalism is officially back in!
We’re expecting to see splashes of colour everywhere this summer (indoors and out). Naturally, the Pantone colour of the year, Viva Magenta, continues to be a beloved shade this year. But hues of yellow and orange are also at the top of interior designers’ lists.
Keen to discover more summer trends? Read our Summer Trend Report online now and follow us on Instagram to stay up to date with retailer offers, professional decorating advice, and more interior inspiration.
How to master alfresco dining this summer
Nothing beats the classic Australian backyard family BBQ. The sun is shining, the sausages are sizzling, and the tongs are at the ready. Whether it’s a weekend ritual or a special celebration, there’s nothing quite like spending time outside during the summertime. This year, we think it’s about time to skip the restaurants and create a stunning alfresco scene in your own backyard instead. Here’s your ultimate guide to alfresco dining.
Products: Eureka Furniture Brighton Dining Chair $849, Eureka Furniture Vendale Oval Dining Table $2,099, Freedom Harbour Side Plate $12.95, Freedom Olive Tree Garden Pot $269, Freedom Soho Cutlery Set $59.95, James Lane Velas Rattan Dome Ceiling Pendant $369, OZ Design Tomah Feather Fill Cushion $84.95, Provincial Home Living Avery Goblet $12.95, The Furniture Shack Bondi Indoor/Outdoor Bean Bag $329.
1. Invest in staple pieces
When it comes to outdoor dining and entertaining, it’s important to invest in the big pieces – we’re talking about your dining table, chairs, barbecues, and additional lighting features. These items should be strong enough to withstand the great Australian outdoors (even if they’re under the protection of a patio ceiling). We recommend opting for timber, oak, or steel tables and likewise for chairs. If your dining chairs have plush cushions, ensure they are removable so they can be brought inside during those pesky summer storms. It’s also a good idea to keep these larger pieces cohesive – opt for outdoor dining sets where the sofa, table, and chairs all match.
2. Quality over quantity
Out with the old, in with the new! It’s time to update your dining essentials this summer – we’re talking about cutlery, luxe glasses, and a set of simple ceramic plates. Having good quality dining essentials will make all the difference when entertaining – after all, no one likes paper plates or plastic cups. The best part? These items are going to last for seasons to come so there’s no need to replace them anytime soon!
3. Decorative accents
Now that you’ve got staple furnishings and necessary tableware, the rest is all about showcasing your personal taste and style. Stock up on outdoor cushions, vases, plants, and even sun lounges that match your aesthetic. We’re loving the coastal style this summer (read all about it in our Summer Trend Report ).
4. Change up your tablescape
You’re likely to have more than one outdoor dining experience this summer, right? So why not have a few different tablescape options to choose from? Be sure to keep your cutlery and glassware the same but change up your tablecloth, table runner, placemats, and centrepiece. By doing so, you can easily create a completely different feel.
We recommend having one minimal tablescape – this could be a white tablecloth, neutral table runner and placemats, and pillar candles. Another easily achievable tablescape theme is modern retro – create this aesthetic through burnt orange, yellow, and dark green hues.
Tip: mix and match across tablescape themes to create a whole new feel.
It’s officially time to embrace summer with an alfresco dining experience! Remember to play with an array of colours and patterns to suit the ambience of your outdoor dining area and most importantly have fun and soak up the good vibes with your friends and family.
Shop the sales: Black Friday deals you need to know
Mark your calendars for Friday 24 November because the best shopping day of the year, Black Friday, is just around the corner! Making for the ultimate excuse to splurge, no matter if it’s a luxury or a necessity. Plus, the event conveniently falls right before the holiday shopping rush.
Just when you thought it couldn’t get any better – we’ve gone ahead and compiled some of the best deals in centre. Below is a little preview of the shopping mayhem that’s in store at the end of November. We don’t want you to miss out on the shopping spree of the year!
Freedom
Leading furniture and homewares retailer, Freedom, is set to have a blackout event starting on Tuesday 7 November continuing through until Monday 27 November. Plus, they will be offering an exclusive Black Friday only offer of an extra 20% off on all sofas. If you have your sights set on a new sofa, Black Friday is the time to buy it!
Provincial Home Living
Provincial Home Living is having a massive Black Friday Sale running from Friday 24 November to Monday 27 November, offering savings of up to $1000 for a limited time. Enjoy discounts with savings like $30 off $150, $100 off $400, $500 off $2000, and an impressive $1000 off $3500. Conditions apply. Don’t miss out!
Howards Storage World
Howards Storage World is gearing up for a four-day sale, featuring a 20% discount storewide! This is your golden opportunity to declutter your home with their top-notch kitchen, wardrobe, and bathroom organisation solutions.
Kitchen Warehouse
Kitchen Warehouse is set to have a huge sale with up to 70% off selected full-priced items. The sale will begin on Friday 17 November and run until Sunday 26 November. It’s the perfect opportunity to replenish your supplies in the kitchen – whether it be baking goods, cooking utensils, or stunning tableware.
Snooze
In search of a new mattress? Head to Snooze! They’re rolling out an incredible deal with a 50% discount on selected mattresses and bed frames, along with an additional 10% off on selected mattresses and bedframes. This sale will be running from Black Friday through to Sunday 26 November. *Terms and conditions apply.
James Lane
If you’re a James Lane enthusiast then be sure to note the date, Tuesday 21 November because that’s when their exciting offer will be released. Stay tuned for more details!
Eureka Furniture
Eureka Furniture have 50% – 70% off all furniture as well as 30% off accessories when you spend a minimum of $600. The best part? This deal comes with a 24-month interest free promotional offer!
Beds N Dreams
Beds N Dreams will be having a major sale, featuring discounts up to 50% off the recommended retail price (RRP). This is the ideal opportunity to enhance your sleep with a new mattress or bed frame.
The Furniture Shack
The Furniture Shack will be offering a remarkable 40% off their Premium Barbados Outdoor Suite! It’s a stunning range ideal for those who are looking to replace their patio and outdoor furniture.
Sleepy’s
Sleepy’s will also be participating in the Black Friday sales with exclusive discounts storewide. Head in store for more details and to take advantage of their exceptional deals.
There you have it – a sneak peek of some of the best Black Friday deals to anticipate! Keep in mind that these are just a fraction of the exciting offers to come. Be sure to head in centre on Friday 24 November. Happy shopping!
Looking for more home inspiration? Join the Homemaker Collective to stay in the loop.
*Snooze offer not available on floor stock, Snooze deals, products, clearance, Bedgear C1 mattress, delivery, assembly and recycling services. As Snooze stores vary in size, it is possible that not all products are displayed in all stores but all products may be ordered on request. While Snooze aims to ensure the information provided is correct, sometimes errors occur and they reserve the right to correct any errors. New orders only. Snooze’s standard terms and conditions of sale otherwise apply.
