Buying Guides

Bed Linen Buying Guide

Giving a fresh feel to the bedroom, all our exclusive and designer bed linen is made using the finest natural fibres. From luxurious cotton to breathable linen, there's bedding to suit every sleeper.

Buying Guides

Bed Buying Guide

Having started life as a bedding specialist over two centuries ago, Heal’s knows a thing or two about getting a good night’s sleep. Each of our bed frames prioritises style, functionality and comfort. Each piece is designed and crafted to help you wake up on the right side of bed.

Styling

Small Living Room Ideas

Working with a limited space should never mean having to compromise on comfort or style. Whether you’re furnishing a smaller apartment, downsizing or just looking to refresh a smaller living room, using the right design strategy can help you maximise your space to its full potential. These modern small living room ideas are perfect for making even the tiniest lounge feel bright, stylish, and functional. Colour schemes for small living rooms Soft neutrals When exploring ideas for small living rooms, a soft neutral palette can make a smaller space feel much more airy and open. Having a neutral colour scheme for walls, ceilings and large furniture pieces can create visual continuity in a room and give the illusion of a larger space as there is less visual contrast. Try combining cream, warm beige and soft taupe for a cosy and inviting neutral palette or for a more modern and minimalist look, combine cool neutral tones like soft grey, white and charcoal. Warm pastels Pastels have the same light-reflective qualities as a neutral palette without being too stark and clinical. They are a great way to inject some colour and personality to a small space without becoming overwhelming. A bold statement wall Having just one statement wall with patterned wallpaper or a bold paint is a great way to introduce some colour to a small space without making it feel too chaotic or cluttered. For modern small living room ideas, an accent wall in a trending colour can really elevate the space. Try olive or sage green for an on-trend, calming colour or a terracotta orange for a warm and grounding atmosphere in your living room. Small Living Room Layout Ideas Choose a focal point and arrange seating around this Creating a strong focal point is one of the simplest ways to draw the eye and give the illusion of a larger space, especially in a small living room. While the television often takes centre stage, opting for a striking piece of modern wall art or a classic fireplace can lend a more curated, timeless feel. Arranging seating around this focal point brings structure to the room, helping to visually anchor the layout and avoid a cluttered or disjointed look. The result is a space that feels cohesive, intentional, and spacious. Be savvy with storage Adding shelving to your walls is a great way to make your small living room feel bigger. It saves valuable floor space making the room feel less cramped and can keep everyday items within easy reach, whilst avoiding messy cluttered surfaces. Less is more A minimalist approach can help create the illusion of more space in a small living room, especially when it comes to the furniture you choose. Choosing less bulky furniture saves space and prevents the room from feeling enclosed or overcrowded. Think clean lines, clutter free and an effortlessly refined space. A minimalist approach creates a great base to work on, use well placed home accessories and soft furnishings to add some personality or colour into your small living room. Create traffic paths A traffic path in interior design is the route people use to move through a space and thinking about it intentionally improves the flow of the room and enhances functionality. This is imperative to making a small living room feel spacious and liveable. Pulling furniture away from walls can help to create a traffic path effectively without forcing everything to the perimeter and having an empty space in the middle of the room. Small Living Room Furniture Ideas Choose compact furniture In a small living room, proportion is everything. Slimline or compact living room furniture can help to maximise the space by leaving more visible floor space which helps the room feel more open. Low-profile sofas, narrow coffee tables, or open-legged chairs can make a space appear less crowded and more thoughtfully designed. Steer clear from larger pieces of furniture for your small living room. Choosing large, bulky furniture tends to give the illusion of shrinking a small room. It can visually dominate the room and overwhelm it. Add multi-purpose furniture By combining storage with style, you can maximise every square inch without sacrificing design. Ottomans with hidden compartments are a perfect example, offering a place to put your feet up while keeping clutter out of sight. Similarly, choosing a media unit or coffee table with built-in storage helps maintain a clean, organised feel while still serving as a design feature. Add mirrors Using mirrors can give the impression of more space in a small living room. When placed opposite to a window, mirrors reflect the natural light making the space appear larger, more open and airy. Mirrors also add more depth and dimension, they help to expand the room and make it feel less enclosed when placed in narrow areas or darker corners. Make clever use of lighting Layering multiple lighting sources can be useful in small spaces as it helps to avoid harsh shadows that divide the space. Try combining table lamps, ceiling lights and wall lighting to layer up your lighting for a soft, cosy, ambient look. Another way to make the space feel more open and airy is by maximising the natural light in your living room. Keep windows clear of thick, heavy curtains and instead opt for more sheer, light coloured materials or blinds that can be drawn back completely. Add a rug in the centre of the room Rugs are a great way to organise your space, making it feel more intentional and structured. Adding a rug to the centre of the room or using it to centre larger furniture pieces such as sofas can create the illusion of a larger space. They can be used to define zones such as a clear seating area or walkway through a room. This can make a small room feel more spacious and improve the visual flow. Choosing a large rug that extends beneath furniture can make the room appear wider or larger whereas smaller rugs tend to chop up the space and make it feel smaller. Curious about living room lighting? Explore our complete guide to living room wall lighting.

Styling

How To Layer Your Lighting Like A Pro

Every October, we celebrate our annual Festival of Light, an illuminating and inspiring display of the best lighting brands in the business, from Frandsen and Tom Dixon to Tala and &Tradition – alongside plenty of our own creations. Better still, we’re offering 15% off all Lighting meaning you can switch up the look of your space for less this season. To provide a guiding light, we asked Claire Anstey, our Senior Lighting Buyer, to show us how to layer your lighting like a pro – just in time for the dark autumn months ahead. Why is layering your lighting important? Claire says: “Layering your lighting is the easiest way to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere in a space – just look around your favourite restaurants and hotels and you’ll notice they always have a layered scheme.” When it comes to illuminating your home, it’s similar to how you layer colours, textures, fabrics and materials to create rooms full of depth and character. But layered lighting doesn’t only create ambience; it’s also key to creating a multi-functional space, whether you’re curling up with a good book, watching a movie, or engaging in deep-and-meaningful. “Mixing-and-matching your lighting means your room will work both during the day and come evening,” adds Claire. What types of lighting are there? “There are three main types of lighting,” Claire reveals, “- ambient, task and accent.” In short, ambient is general lighting that illuminates a space in a functional way to avoid you knocking into things in the dark. This can come in the form of pendants, wall lights and chandeliers – and doesn’t have to derive from a single source. Meanwhile, accent lighting is more for aesthetic purposes and enables you to create a mood - think warm and cosy table and floor lamps for a soft glow, or to highlight specific features like a period fireplace. Finally, task lighting is the most functional of all by helping you with specific activities, from desk lamps to kitchen pendants and vanity lights. Claire says: “A combination of all three types will help you create a space that’s as atmospheric as it is practical.” What tips are there for layering your light? “Have at least three to four light sources in a room you want to create atmosphere in,” Claire advises, “or more if it’s a darker-hued room that’s painted or papered.” She adds: “Choose table and floor lamps with shades for diffusing the lighting. And invest in dimmable lights to dial up and down the mood as required.” “Portable lights are super flexible, perfect for spaces with no plug sockets, but not just for outside, as most of our portable lamps last for at least 8 hours, allowing you to recharge them at the weekend (or overnight). Claire says: “Light the corners of a room to make it feel bigger. And create layers with a combination of ceiling, wall, floor and table lamps to add visual interest.” Do you have any thoughts, ideas, or advice on whether bedroom light fixtures need to match? “There has been a definite movement away from matching wall lamps, pendants, and table lamps, which can feel a little hotel-like. Rather than looking for uniform pieces, I would recommend co-ordinating lighting with the overall room décor to achieve a cohesive and considered look... Functionality should be the main priority. For example, large, dramatic lamps next to the bed might look impressive, but if you have small bedside tables cluttered with essentials like books, a phone, and a glass of water, they can prove to be impractical. In such cases, understated wall lamps or pendants can be a stylish and space-saving alternative, allowing you to instead make a statement with the central ceiling fixture... “If you enjoy winding down with a good book, instead consider directional light sources on either side of the bed. The goal is to create an intentional scheme that feels natural, rather than overly curated.” Are there any rules to follow when approaching bedroom lighting? “The bedroom should be your personal sanctuary. When it comes to lighting, the most important consideration should be to create a scheme that promotes relaxation while catering to your individual style and practical needs... This can be easily achieved by layering different elements to achieve the perfect level of illumination from dawn to dusk. Focused task lighting can be ideal when reading before bed or getting ready in the morning, while accent lighting can gently highlight darker corners of the room as you wind down for sleep." Can you give some general thoughts on the do's and don'ts of mixing and matching bedroom lights? “While there are no strict rules, I would recommend coordinating your lighting through common elements like colour, texture, or material to maintain a harmonious feel. Mixing styles can create a wonderfully eclectic look, provided there is a unifying element tying them together... Most importantly, choose lighting that resonates with your individual style and personality. After all, it will be among the last things you see at night, and the first thing you notice in the morning!”

Styling

8 Outdoor Dining Ideas

It’s almost time to throw open the doors and enjoy the great outdoors, if recent glimmers of sunshine amidst the clouds are anything to go by. You can almost smell the barbecues, taste the Pimm’s and hear the birdsong of a not-too-distant spring, can’t you? Thankfully, we’ve got everything you need to get your outdoor space ready for a season of entertaining friends and family, specifically accompanied with great food and drink. Garden dining ideas Just in time for sunnier times, we’ve rounded up the best outdoor dining ideas for your garden. Mix and match outdoor furniture While we’ve got complete garden sets for those looking to create a cohesive scheme in their outdoor space – from Eos to Tanso – why not mix and match individual garden dining and tables for a gloriously eclectic look? But don’t just throw individual styles together without much thought. To mismatch effortlessly but elegantly, take your cues from similar materials – wood vs. metal, for example – or like minded tones (for instance, earthy vs. muted) to still create a sense of synergy in even the most opposite of pieces. Sure to spark conversation. Host a crowd with a large garden dining table An outdoor dining table sets the stage for many an al fresco feast over the spring and summer months so it’s worth investing in a quality one that will stand the test of time (and endure British winters). The Pelagus dining table by Fritz Hansen is just the thing with a sturdy but stylish teak and aluminium design that’s available in two distinctive colourways. Better still, the extension plate can be used in ones or twos to convert the table from a six- or eight-seater to a 10- or 12-seater, meaning everyone can be invited for fun in the sun. Surely one of the brightest outdoor dining ideas. Inject colour with bright garden dining chairs If your outdoor palette is natural and subdued – black and white, or grey and beige – make a sparing but vibrant statement with a splash of colour in the form of your dining chairs. The Eos outdoor side chair is now available in Brewer Green, exclusive to Heal’s and developed in collaboration with COAT Paints, which will certainly dial up the drama. Roll out an outdoor rug With your table and chairs acting as the jewel in the crown of your outdoor dining space, it’s time to add texture with an outdoor rug, the hottest way to take the inside out. Luckily, we’ve got a collection of floor coverings to suit every outdoor space, layering texture, colour and pattern. The Romilly recycled rug comes in an earthy terracotta colour that adds Moroccan flair; while the Diamond kilim outdoor rug features an unusual octagon shape emblazoned with a graphic print. Pop one under your dining table and chairs to zone the area while adding texture under bare feet. Bring atmosphere with outdoor lighting Add a little ambience to your outdoor dining area with lighting that’s specifically designed for al fresco spaces. Our own-brand Orion portable LED table lamps are perfect for illuminating outdoor tablescapes while casting a flattering glow and offer up to eight hours of battery life from a single charge. For additional impact, why not add string lighting to your scheme? The Tobias from Sirius comprises 10 LED bulbs suspended from a five-metre cable that can be wound around trees or draped over fences. Lastly, add candles for atmosphere. Line them in varying heights down the length of a rectangular table or cluster together in the centre of a circular table. Add texture with layered fabric To soften your dining space further, layer on luxurious fabrics, from linen for your table to cushions for your seating. New for summer, the Heal’s + L.F.Markey stripe tablecloth in a vibrant yellow-and-white colourway. Part of the latest collection from our collaboration with the independent London fashion brand, it’s a surefire talking point and can be teamed with the napkins in the same collection (the green will add a touch of contrast). Otherwise, our linen tablecloth – in neutrals like pink or cream – offers a more laid-back aesthetic. For comfort under-cheek, why not plump for an outdoor cushion that adds panache as well as padding? The colours in the Greenwich collection provide a style for most spaces while this cushion from Edinburgh Weavers allows your passion for art and design to escape the four walls of your home. Finally, why not offer dining companions a chance to cosy up by filling a basket with a selection of quality throws to drape over their shoulders? Our pure Alpaca throws or two-tone Merino throws are sure to do the job. Stay cool in the sun with a parasol For daytime soirées, ensure you and your guests keep your cool with a stylish but practical outdoor umbrella to shield everyone from the strength of the afternoon sun. The Messina round outdoor umbrella by Fritz Hansen is built from long-lasting fabric and features a classic blue-and-white striped design. Work on a garden sofa for lounging Finally, give your guests somewhere to retire after dinner by carving out space for a dedicated outdoor lounge area. From an Eos sofa or armchair to the Virkelyst sofa or Roy Cocoon chair, something laid-back but luxurious provides the perfect excuse to while away the evening until the small hours (preferably with a digestif in hand). Prepare your garden for al fresco dining Browse and buy from the latest and greatest luxury garden furniture to make the most of your great outdoors and inspire more outdoor dining ideas.

Buying Guides

Best Modular Sofas For Every Space

A modular sofa is one of the most flexible pieces of furniture you can invest in, as it can be adapted to suit your space or the evolving needs of a home. Whether in terms of its shape or size. Allowing for more customised seating, a modular (or sectional) sofa is made up of individual units (or modules) that can be configured according to your space and taste while maximising floor space. In short: a win-win. Read more: What is a modular sofa? Why buy a modular sofa? Modular sofas are perfect if you’re the kind of person who likes to shake things up now and then to keep things fresh, or if you’re not in a permanent space because you’re renting, as they’re so easy to take apart and move. Because versatility is key, they come in a variety of styles with the option of different components, from arm and back pieces to left and right-hand chaises – as well as ottomans – while they can be assembled in a number of configurations. Whether a two-seater set-up that accommodates couples for settling down with a movie, or a U-shape for gathering friends and family in a social arrangement, the world really is your oyster. Our favourite modular sofas Luckily, Heal’s is home to a collection of the best modular sofas, the latest and greatest of which we’ve rounded-up below, from a supremely comfy modular sofa to modular sofas for small spaces and contemporary modular sofas. Be swept off your feet. Best velvet modular sofa Timeless yet on-trend, velvet adds a touch of glamour to your interiors while being irresistibly soft and tactile. Good news, then, that Astrid – which offers cloud-like comfort with super-soft seat cushions filled with duck down and feathers – can be upholstered in the opulent fabric in a range of rich jewel tones, including grape, petrol and teal, as well as luxe velvet, which looks like a cotton velvet but is woven in Italy using strain-resistant polyester, making it perfect for busy households (sumptuous hues such as cognac, dusky pink and azure mean there’s no compromise in style). Envelop yourself in luxury. Best contemporary modular sofa Created exclusively for Heal’s by Danish design studio Says Who, the Lili modular sofa offers a contemporary style for modern homes with a gently-rounded silhouette, soft curves and comfortable foam cushioning. Small accents like the pull-in stitch detailing across the back rest and recessed natural beech feet add to its appeal while the six individual modules in the collection mean it can be tailored to suit both small and large spaces. We’re obsessed with the sweeping corner unit for a creating a seamless arrangement that will sit flush against the wall. Best modular sofa for dividing large spaces A modular sofa is a great way of carving up open-plan spaces – the experts call it ‘broken-plan’ living – by positioning your seating with its back away from a dining area, for example. With a high, structured back, the Tailor is the best for dividing your room, featuring classic British tailoring, a serpentine sprung base and goose feather-filled seat and back cushions. With left- and right-hand corner designs, there’s a configuration to suit your particular space. We suggest creating an L- or U-shape that wraps around your living area and separates it from the rest of the room. Best comfy modular sofa Flexibility doesn’t have to come at the expense of form as the Morven collection of modular sofas by Says Who demonstrates, comprising two and three-seaters in addition to 16 individual units. Each piece features a sumptuous, pillow-like silhouette inspired by its namesake mountain while expert craftsmanship provides optimum support. Made from duck feathers, a deep seat comes with a high back and integrated side cushioning to soften the sofa’s frame and add to its comfort. Whatever you choose, it’s the kind of comfy modular sofa you can relax in all day, every day. Best modular sofa for small spaces Togo, the immediately recognisable modular sofa by Ligne Roset, might not be the most obvious choice when it comes to modular sofas for small spaces, but the small settee is nice and compact, the fireside chair is neater than traditional armchairs and the clever corner seat makes the most of floor space, while all modules feature a low back that doesn’t take up visual room or interrupt lines of sight. Of course, for those who do have the space, the complete corner sofa is a generous configuration that will accommodate your nearest and dearest more than comfortably. Characterised by signature pleats of crumbled fabric, the iconic collection of hand-sewn sofas – now celebrating half a century in production since they were first designed by Michel Ducaroy in 1973 – are a design classic. Design your own modular sofa Looking for a tailor-made buildable sofas? Giving you creative licence, our complimentary modular sofa builder enables you to design the sofa of your dreams. Simply select the units, drop onto the floorplan and assemble the sofa. Then, save the image, share the link or start from scratch. Sure to spark your creativity.