Search Results for: room with a view

Dreamy Outdoor Fireplaces

Mediterranean style outdoor fireplace

With spring just around the corner, our thoughts naturally turn to the idea of the warm sunny days ahead.

In the winter we try to bring a taste of the outside in with plants, greenery and other touches of nature. Whereas in the summer, when we spend more time outdoors, we do the opposite. We bring some of the inside out.

What I really like is the Mediterranean style of turning outdoor spaces into an extension of the home. More than merely taking a couple of chairs out, the garden or terrace becomes an outdoor living room.  And the space is carefully considered with furniture, accessories and potted plants. Much like the interior of your home.

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How Biophilic Design Could Help You Sleep Better

Biophilic bedroom design

One of the best night’s sleep I ever had was when I once stayed in a hotel where each hotel room was an individual wooden chalet.

Simply furnished, but very cosy, I’ve rarely felt so rested and refreshed upon waking up. While the clear country air certainly helped. It was pointed out to me that it probably also had a lot to do with the entire structure being made out of wood – a natural material.

That was the first time I made the connection between the effect of our bedroom environment  and its ability to help us sleep well. And the importance of bringing more nature and natural materials into our homes. I didn’t realise at the time that there was a name for this: Biophilia.

Various research studies have shown that there are clear links between biophilia and well-being. So introducing some elements of biophilic design into your bedroom could go a long way to helping you get a better night’s sleep.

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How To Use Biophilic Design In Your Home To Increase Happiness And Well-Being

Biophilic design in the home

Biophilic design is far more than just another passing trend.

Designers and architects increasingly recognise both the importance and benefits of combining nature with design. And biophilia is fast becoming an integral element of interior design, architecture and planning.

As well as improving the look and feel of your home, biophilia can also increase your feelings of happiness and well-being. Research has shown that exposure to nature can lower stress, elevate your mood, make you feel more relaxed and improve cognitive functions.

And the good news is that it is easy to introduce some biophilic design into your home. You don’t need to give it a full makeover or hire a specialist. Just a few changes can make a big difference.

Here’s a short introduction to a few of the guiding principles of biophilic design. Along with some ideas of how to add these nature-based design elements into your home.

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5 Smart Interior Design Ideas From An Attic Flat

Interior design ideas for small spaces from an attic flat

This flat in the attic of an old tenement house in Poland was designed as a live / work space for a couple who are both graphic designers.

Compact in size, and with a sloping ceiling, the flat could have felt small and cramped. But with smart use of space and interior design techniques, Sabina Królikowska of INSIDE home design has created a beautiful airy apartment which feels very spacious. And aspects that could have made it an awkward space are transformed into features which turn it into an extraordinary home.

The apartment is full of inspired decorating and interior design ideas. So I thought I would highlight some of them that you could use in your own home.

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New Trend Alert: Ancient Meets Modern

Ancient meets modern Verulamium - Mocha UK

There’s an exciting trend emerging. Except  that it’s not completely new. In fact, its origins are ancient.

Yes, we’re going right back in time. Beyond retro, vintage or antique. This is ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome – but with a modern twist.

It goes back to basics, with a return to natural materials and greater simplicity, mixed with contemporary elements.

And it’s capturing our imagination in every creative sphere.

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My Design Style With Eleni From My Paradissi

My Paradissi EleniEleni is an architect, interior designer and blogger. Based in Heraklion, Crete, she writes the blog My Paradissi. An “online design paradise”, it is filled with stunning images and inspirational interiors (and is one of my favourite blogs).

She also recently started a second blog called Grecian Paradise which is dedicated Greece and its beauties.

With her keen eye for beautiful design and aesthetics, Eleni shares with us here some of her own inspirations and interior design tips.

How would you describe your interior style?
Eclectic, casual, effortless, cozy. I’m attracted to uncluttered, bright spaces with Scandinavian, modern country and global influences.

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Villa F: A Greek Island Holiday Home With A Difference

If I asked you to imagine a Greek Island holiday home, how would you describe it to me?

You might mention typical Mediterranean whitewashed walls and a spacious and airy interior. Perhaps simple but comfortable furnishings  (ideal for relaxing and getting away from it all!) And no doubt, a view of the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea.

Villa F Greek Island Villa on Mocha UK

This holiday villa on the Greek Island of Rhodes has all of this. But I bet it isn’t quite what you were imagining …

Villa F is a futuristic looking home. It was designed by architects Hornung and Jacobi Architecture for a couple who wanted a holiday home that also included a separate area for guests.

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My Design Style With Igor From Happy Interior Blog

Interview with Igor Happy Interior Blog for Mocha blogIgor is a design and interior blogger – and passionate traveller – based in Munich, Germany. He writes  Happy Interior Blog, and features beautiful home accessories, travel pieces and everything you need for a happy home. It’s a blog that can’t help but put a smile on your face!

With his infectious upbeat style, Igor shares with us here some of his own design inspirations and styling tips.

Describe your interior style in 5 words or less.
Colourful, unpretentious, personal and happy!

What is inspiring you right now?
With the dawn of a new season I am largely inspired by nature. The first sun rays after weeks of grey skies, the first signs of awakening in parks and gardens, the colourful blooms on the market stands.

I feel inspired by the refreshing power of upcoming spring and want to embrace the season through little tweaks in my home decor, too.

Which designer or designers most inspire you – and why?
I do admire the ‘old classics’, the big names such as Eames, Wegner, Jacobsen. I admire them for their visionary approach to design, for envisaging and pairing the aesthetics of form and function.

I also love Alexander Girard for his playful designs. But I also admire younger designers and design labels such as Konstantin Grcic, a Munich based industrial designer, for his sharp eye and edgy approach to design.

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7 Uplifting Design And Living Links

The Mark Brothers Cable Labels from Mocha UKThis week, it felt like the web was full of positivity. From celebrations with a good cause, to stylish party ideas. And from easy ways to get organized, to a more optimistic way of viewing your goals and plans when then don’t totally succeed.

Here is a selection of those links which I hope you’ll fine uplifting.

Happy Bloggerversary To Happy Interior Blog

A big congratulations to Igor on the first anniversary since he started his Happy Interior Blog. He came up with an original – and heartwarming – way to celebrate. For every person who leaves a comment on his First Bloggerversary post, he will donate one Euro to the charity Building Trust International. The party is still going on until Sunday 28 October, so hurry over to his blog and contribute to the celebrations by adding your comment.

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Interiors That Offer A Vision Of Calm: San Giorgio Hotel

San Giorgio Hotel Interiors - Mocha UK Blog

San Giorgio Hotel is not like a typical hotel. In fact, the interior doesn’t look much like a hotel at all. It’s more like staying in the holiday home of a cool friend. Or the kind of hideaway you wish you had as your own personal bolt-hole whenever you felt the need to escape away for a few days.

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