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How to choose the perfect mirror for your home

A mirror is an essential piece of home decor that not only adds visual depth and style to a room but also serves a practical purpose. With a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles to choose from, picking out the perfect mirror can be a daunting task. To make your mirror buying experience a little less stressful, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to help you choose the best mirror for your home.

Beautiful Wooden Framed Rectangular Mirror
Jourdain Recycled Wood Mirror

Consider the size of your space and the mirror – The first thing to consider when choosing a mirror for your home is the size of the space where you plan to place the mirror. A large mirror can be a focal point in a room and make a small space appear much bigger. However, if your room is already spacious, a large mirror may overwhelm the space. Likewise, a small mirror in a large room may look lost in the space. Take careful measurements of your room and the area where you plan to hang the mirror to ensure a perfect fit.

Choose the right shape – Mirrors come in a variety of shapes, including circular, oval, square, rectangular, and arched. Each shape can bring a different feel to a space. For instance, a round or oval mirror can soften the sharp edges of a room and add a touch of elegance to the space. Rectangular or square mirrors, on the other hand, give a more structured and modern appearance. Consider the overall style of your space when choosing a shape.

Reflect on your interior design style – Your choice of mirror should complement the style of your home decor and fit in with the overall aesthetic. Antique or ornate mirrors can add a touch of vintage charm to a room and work well in traditional or classic spaces. Modern and minimalistic mirrors, with simple frames and clean lines, are perfect for contemporary interiors. Gold or silver-framed mirrors can add a touch of glamour to any space, while wooden frames are ideal for rustic or country-style interiors.

Consider the placement of the mirror – Deciding where to place your mirror is just as important as choosing the mirror itself. Mirrors can be placed in different locations throughout the home, including the entryway, living room, bedroom, and bathroom. An entryway mirror can be a practical space to check your appearance before you leave the house and can also add depth and brightness to a small area. In the bedroom, a full-length mirror is essential for getting dressed or applying makeup. A bathroom mirror should be large enough for practical purposes but also be able to withstand humidity and moisture.

Assess the quality of the mirror – When choosing a mirror, it’s essential to assess the quality of the glass and the reflection. A high-quality mirror should have a perfectly clear reflection with no distortions or imperfections in the glass. The frame should also be sturdy and well constructed, with no visible gaps or flaws. Additionally, check that the mirror is easy to hang and secure correctly to prevent any accidents.

When choosing the perfect mirror for your home, remember to consider the size of your space, the shape, the style, placement, and the quality of the glass and frame. A well-chosen mirror can enhance the functionality and style of your home decor. So, take your time, shop around, and select a mirror that fits in perfectly with your home’s aesthetic and adds both beauty and practicality to your space.

Click here to see our great range of mirrors.

How to choose the Best Toys for Dogs

Dogs are far more than pets. They are companions in daily routines, quiet company on long walks and a constant source of loyalty and joy. Caring for them well means thinking beyond food and exercise, and considering how they spend their time when they’re at rest or play. The right toys can support your dog’s physical health, stimulate their mind and offer comfort when you’re not nearby.

With such a wide choice available, knowing where to begin can feel overwhelming. A thoughtful approach, guided by your dog’s needs and personality, will help you make choices that are both enjoyable and safe.

Consider age and breed

Your dog’s age plays an important role in the type of toys they’ll enjoy. Puppies explore the world with their mouths and benefit from softer toys that are gentle on developing teeth and gums. Teething toys, designed to soothe and withstand chewing, can help discourage unwanted nibbling around the house.

Older dogs may prefer toys that are easier to grip and kinder to ageing teeth and joints. At this stage of life, comfort often matters as much as play, so softer toys or gentle puzzle games can be a good fit.

Breed characteristics can also influence play style. Some dogs love to chase, others to chew, tug or retrieve. Choosing toys that reflect these natural instincts can make playtime more satisfying and rewarding.

Size matters

The size of a toy is just as important as its type. Toys should be large enough that they can’t be swallowed, yet small enough for your dog to carry and enjoy comfortably. A toy that fits easily in your dog’s mouth without posing a choking risk is a good guide.

For larger dogs, sturdier and more substantial toys are often needed, while smaller dogs usually benefit from lighter, scaled-down options that are easier to manage.

Choosing the right materials

Materials make a noticeable difference to how a toy is used and how long it lasts. Soft toys are ideal for gentle play and comfort, particularly indoors, while rubber or tougher materials suit dogs who enjoy chewing and more energetic play.

It’s important to check that toys are made from safe, non-toxic materials and are well constructed. If your dog is a determined chewer, look for durable designs that won’t break apart easily, and inspect toys regularly for signs of wear.

The value of interactive toys

Interactive toys can provide both mental and physical stimulation, helping to prevent boredom and encourage problem-solving. Puzzle toys, treat-dispensing designs and games that require effort and curiosity can keep dogs engaged, particularly when they’re spending time alone.

These toys can be especially helpful for intelligent or energetic dogs, offering a sense of purpose and achievement alongside play.

Let your dog lead the way

Every dog is different, and their preferences matter. Some thrive on chasing balls, others enjoy a good game of tug, while some are happiest with a toy they can settle down with. Paying attention to how your dog plays will guide you towards toys they’re more likely to love and use.

Introducing new toys gradually allows you to see what captures their interest and what’s best left aside.

Thoughtful choices for happy play

Choosing the right toys isn’t about quantity, but suitability. By considering your dog’s age, size, breed and personality, and by selecting safe, well-made toys that offer both comfort and challenge, you can enrich their everyday life in simple but meaningful ways.

A well-chosen toy can offer joy, reassurance and stimulation, strengthening the bond you share and helping your dog feel content, engaged and cared for.

For all things Dogs, Take a Look here! 🐕

Further Reading: Camping Adventures – A Beginner’s Guide, The Ultimate Guide to Pickleball a Game for Everyone

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Discovering the Benefits of Salt Lamps

Imagine returning home to an atmosphere that helps you slow down, breathe more deeply and gently leave the day behind. As many of us spend a large part of our lives indoors, the way our homes feel matters more than we might realise. Creating a sense of calm, comfort and balance can have a quiet but meaningful effect on our wellbeing.

One simple way people choose to enhance the mood of their living spaces is with a salt lamp. Loved for their warm glow and natural form, salt lamps have become a familiar feature in homes seeking a softer, more restful ambience. But what exactly are they, and why do they hold such appeal?

What is a salt lamp?

Salt lamps are made from solid blocks of salt, traditionally mined from the Himalayan region. Each lamp is unique in shape and colour, ranging from pale peach to deep amber. A small bulb or tealight sits inside the salt crystal, gently warming it and allowing light to filter through the stone.

When lit, the lamp emits a soft, warm glow that many people find soothing. It’s this natural light, combined with the organic texture of the salt, that gives salt lamps their distinctive presence in a room.

Creating a calmer atmosphere

One of the most noticeable qualities of a salt lamp is the way it changes the feel of a space. The light is low and diffuse, making it well suited to evenings, quiet corners and moments of rest. In bedrooms, living rooms or reading nooks, this gentle illumination can help signal a shift away from the brightness and busyness of the day.

Unlike harsher artificial lighting, the warm tones of a salt lamp can create a sense of calm and ease, encouraging relaxation and unhurried moments.

Supporting mood and focus

Many people value salt lamps for the atmosphere they help create rather than any single defining benefit. A softly lit room can feel more grounded and welcoming, making it easier to concentrate, unwind or simply sit quietly. In work or study spaces, this calmer environment may help reduce feelings of stress and mental fatigue, particularly when paired with natural materials and uncluttered surroundings.

A gentler approach to evenings and sleep

In bedrooms, salt lamps are often used as an alternative to bright overhead lighting. Their low-level glow can help create a peaceful setting before bedtime, encouraging a slower pace as the day comes to a close. For some, this softer light becomes part of an evening routine, offering a sense of continuity and comfort.

Choosing the right salt lamp

When selecting a salt lamp, size matters. Larger lamps tend to cast more light and make a stronger visual statement, while smaller ones work well on bedside tables or shelves. Consider the scale of the room and the atmosphere you’d like to create.

Colour also plays a part. Lighter shades give a subtle glow, while deeper tones feel richer and more cocooning. As each lamp is naturally formed, no two are quite the same, which adds to their appeal.

A simple, natural addition

Salt lamps are valued not for being a cure-all, but for the way they contribute to a home’s overall feeling. Their natural origins, warm light and tactile quality sit comfortably alongside wood, stone and soft furnishings, helping to create spaces that feel considered and restorative.

Incorporating a salt lamp into your home is a small change, but one that can gently influence how a room feels and how you feel within it. Sometimes, it’s these quiet details that make the greatest difference, turning everyday spaces into places of calm and ease.

We have a great range of Salt Lamps .

Further Reading: Affordable Decorating Ideas That Will Transform Your Home, Sustainable Chic: A Beginner’s Guide to Circular Design

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Selecting Soft Furnishings

Soft furnishings bring comfort, warmth and character to a home. They soften hard edges, invite you to pause and, with a little thought, can help a space feel truly welcoming. With so much choice available, selecting cushions, throws and textiles can feel daunting. A considered approach, however, will help you choose pieces that sit comfortably together and enhance the atmosphere of your rooms.

Materials matter

The starting point for any soft furnishing is the fabric itself. Natural materials are often the most rewarding to live with. Cotton is a dependable favourite: breathable, versatile and hard-wearing, it suits everyday use and works well across seasons. Linen offers a relaxed elegance, its gentle creases adding to its charm.

Wool comes into its own in cooler months. Naturally insulating and resilient, it brings depth and warmth, whether woven into a cushion cover or draped as a throw. For those seeking a sense of indulgence, materials such as velvet, silk or leather can add richness and texture, though they do require a little more care and may not be the best choice in busy family homes.

A thoughtful use of colour and pattern

Cushions and textiles provide an opportunity to introduce colour and pattern without committing to large-scale changes. Begin with a restrained palette: two or three colours that complement one another will give a sense of cohesion. From there, you can introduce variety through pattern. Stripes, checks and florals can sit happily side by side when united by a shared colour or tone.

If you prefer a calmer scheme, explore different shades of the same colour. A range of blues, for example, can create a soothing, layered effect, while still offering interest through texture and weave.

Comfort through shape and scale

A well-chosen mix of shapes and sizes makes a room feel relaxed and lived in. Square cushions provide structure, while round or rectangular ones soften the arrangement. Varying sizes on a sofa or bed adds visual rhythm and allows everyone to find their own version of comfort.

The same principle applies to throws, rugs and floor cushions. In smaller rooms, choose pieces that are proportionate to the space, allowing the room to breathe. In larger areas, generous textiles can help create intimacy and define zones for sitting or reading.

Living with your choices

Soft furnishings should suit not only your home but also your way of life. If your household includes children or pets, durability and washability are key. Removable, machine-washable covers will make everyday living simpler. Those with allergies or sensitive skin may wish to favour natural, hypoallergenic fibres and avoid harsh synthetic blends.

Enjoy the process

Perhaps most importantly, allow yourself to experiment. Layer cushions in different textures, fold a throw over the arm of a chair, or place a floor cushion by the fire to create a quiet corner for reading. Soft furnishings are among the easiest elements to change, making them ideal for refreshing a room as the seasons shift or tastes evolve.

Choosing cushions and soft furnishings need not be overwhelming. With a thoughtful balance of materials, colour, pattern and scale, you can create spaces that feel both comfortable and personal. There is no single right answer—only what feels right for you and your home. Take your time, trust your instincts, and enjoy the pleasure of shaping rooms that welcome you in at the end of the day.

We have a great range of cushions to add colour, comfort and warmth to your home. To see them click here!

Further Reading: Affordable Decorating Ideas That Will Transform Your Home, Sustainable Chic: A Beginner’s Guide to Circular Design

Daily Inspiration: Follow Us on Instagram, BlueSky, Threads , Pinterest, Twitter, TikTok