Celebrate in your own way this International Bath Day with your favourite scents, soaps and accessories. With help from buyer Emily Dunstan, we’ve compiled some of our favourite ways to transform your bathroom into a home spa.
Create the perfect home spa
As spas and salons are still closed, it’s more important than ever to transform your bathroom into a home spa. If your bathroom is in need of a bit of TLC, make some small additions to enhance the space. We recommend items like a bath bridge or new shelving unit.
These are ideal for arranging your favourite toiletries, candles and perfumes on. “I’d start with a bath bridge which is perfect for layering on both your decorative and practical pieces.” Emily Dunstan, Heal’s Buyer
That’s the scent
A unique feature of spas and beauty salons is the beautiful smells you encounter. To create your home spa, we recommend finding a relaxing fragrance. This can be a candle, reed diffuser or essential oil. Use these aromas to create a home spa ambience at very little cost. Pus, the flickering of candles will make your bathroom feel even more spa-like.
“For the at-home spa experience I’d recommend our Elm Rd Relax and Reset. Each candle also comes with a complimentary essential oil. Add 2 or 3 drops of these into your bath for extra indulgence.” Emily Dunstan, Heal’s Buyer
Stylish storage
Part of the beauty of visiting a spa is that everything is so calm and tidy you can’t help but unwind. We believe proper storage is essential for this. By adding some simple baskets to your bathroom, you’ll wave goodbye to clutter and say hello to your home spa. These are particularly useful when tidying away children toys or surplus shampoos. “These Vitra toolboxes are great for storing your beauty products whilst also looking stylish.” Emily Dunstan, Heal’s Buyer
Time for new towels
There’s nothing quite like stepping out of a relaxing bath and being enveloped in a luxuriously soft towel. Invest in some premium towels that you use especially when you’re treating yourself to a spa day. This will make your bath feel extra special and differentiate it from everyday bathing.
“Our waffle collection would make a charming, sophisticated addition when creating your own spa sanctuary at home.” Emily Dunstan, Heal’s Buyer
Why do we celebrate International Bath Day?
On the 14th June every year, bath lovers across the world come together to celebrate International Bath Day. Originally, International Bath Day was created to celebrate the Greek Scientist and Mathematician Archimedes.
It’s said that the day marks the anniversary of Archimedes’ discovery that an object’s volume can be determined by immersing it in water. He discovered this whilst bathing and as such the day has gradually become known as International Bath Day.
Find everything needed to create a home spa here.
[ INSPIRATION ]
Trends & Lifestyle
With printed book sales on the rise across the world, creating a home library is becoming a popular move. Even if you prefer e-readers, you probably have a stack of cooking books or vintage tomes looking for a home.
Scroll down to see some of our favourite images of home libraries and help inspire your space. Plus, discover some of our top tips for creating a home library.
Little or large home library?
When it comes to making your own home library, not all of us have a dedicated room to spare. In fact, a home library can be created almost anywhere. From under-stair alcoves to previously unused corners, with your creative cap on almost any space can work. Modular shelving is incredibly useful when it comes to space as you can pick and choose to suit your room. We love the Everyday Shelving Unit from Ligne Roset (pictured).
Part of the beauty of a home library is that cosy. So, even if you do want to dedicate a whole room to your home library, it doesn’t need to be huge. Of course, that’s a moot point if your book collection is so vast that you clearly need a larger space.
Choose the room wisely
A home library can be an incredibly inspiring space. If possible, opt for a room with a large window that lets in lots of natural light. Similarly, you’ll want a room that has potential to accommodate your books. So, choose a room with walls that have lots or space for bookshelves if possible. For example, the Piano Bookshelf from Riva 1920 (pictured) needs lots of space. If your chosen room is full of nooks and crannies then shelving can become an issue. But don’t despair; customised shelving units might be for you.
Another thing to consider is noise. If you plan to use your home library regularly then you don’t want to be disturbed by exterior sounds. Carefully consider your options and pick the quietest space. That might mean avoiding noisy neighbours, busy roads or loud plumbing.
Get creative
If your home library is in a smaller space, you have even more potential to get creative. Whether you choose to integrate storage into your seating or build shelving that curves round your armchair, the opportunities are endless. If you’re into your DIY this is something you could try yourself. If not, enlist the services of a local carpenter to help you out. Similarly, modular blocks like the Ligne Roset Cuts Shelving (pictured) are great for customising compact spaces.
Comfy home library seating
You’re not at the public library now. So say goodbye to scratchy upholstery, glaring strip lights and tired tables. Your sophisticated home library is a haven to unwind in, so make sure it’s kitted out to suit you.
A comfortable sofa or armchair creates the perfect spot to curl up in with a good book. A statement accent chair would also work too. Similarly, don’t ignore lighting. If possible, opt for table or floor lamps rather than a bright pendant. Bulbs that emit a warm glow help form a relaxing ambience, just make sure there’s enough light to read by. Complete the scene with a side table that provides enough space for your book, cuppa and table lamp.
Playful shelving
Home library shelving doesn’t need to be standard. There are plenty of wall shelves that allow for a lot of creativity. Take the Bookworm Shelf from Kartell (pictured) for example. This undulating shelf is available in a variety of different shapes, colours and sizes. When filled with books it makes a real wall statement.
If you’re building your own shelves, consider painting them a vibrant hue. Or you could even craft them using colourful transparent acrylic for a playful flourish.
Live in a rental with limited opportunities or simply don’t have the time to completely overhaul your garden? Worry not; we have five easy tips that’ll make your garden feel more welcoming.
You can easily do each job without needing to bring in a gardener or landscaper. Whilst you can always opt for help if you need it, these garden ideas are so easy you can do them yourself.
It's all in the furniture
A new garden furniture set will enliven most outdoor spaces. Not only will it make your space look refreshed, but a new furniture set will offer the perfect place to relax outside. By replacing it, you can also make sure your new furniture is perfectly suited to your needs. If you regularly lounge outside then consider how a comfortable sofa set would work in your garden. If your garden is for eating al fresco and entertaining then a spacious outdoor dining table may work for you.
Got enough space? Then how about both? However, not everyone is in the position to invest in new garden furniture and plenty of people are happy with their current set. In that case, a little sprucing up could be just the ticket. Sand down wooden furniture and give it a new lick of paint or varnish and it’ll soon be looking as good as new. Be sure to get the right type of paint for your wood. If you aren’t sure, get in touch with someone at your local hardware store to help.
Say goodbye to the garden lawn
If you’re finding caring for a lawn requires too much maintenance then why not plant your own wildflower meadow? Wildflower seeds are easy to find online and in most garden centres. Simply scatter them across your lawn and wait for them to grow. The best thing? You won’t need to tend to the lawn anymore. Let the grass and flowers grow tall to get the full effect.
Plus, by replacing your manicured lawn with flowers you have the added benefit of attracting wildlife to your space. Of course, this only works if you don’t use your lawn or if you have one, for that matter. There are other options if you’d like flowers but your outdoor space is gravelled over or dedicated to a miniature football pitch. Get creative and consider creating a wildflower boarder.
Or, for extra flexibility in small or paved spaces, simply scatter some seeds in a pot of soil and wait for them to grow.
Clean the deck
Don’t underestimate the power of a pressure washer and a lick of varnish to revitalise your garden. The relatively simple task of pressure washing will spruce up paved patios, wooden terraces and concrete driveways. There are plenty of companies who will do this for you and it really makes all the difference.
Got all the gear as well as the know-how? Then do it yourself. As always, make sure any new varnishes, paints or cleaners you use are right for your surface. Top tip: take before and after pictures to really appreciate the satisfaction of pressure washing.
Garden lighting
From fairy lights to solar-powered lamps and portable lights, there are endless opportunities when it comes to garden lighting. If you decide to fill your garden with fairy lights then make sure they are outdoor-suitable.
You may need to invest in an external extension cable to make your you have electricity everywhere you need it. Festoon lights also offer a more sophisticated addition to fairy lights and can provide more light too.
Portable lights are particularly great because during cooler weather you can also use them inside. This allows you to choose a more cutting-edge design that wasn’t created just for the garden. It’s important to note that you should normally keep portable lights inside when they aren’t in use.
Time for a switch up?
If you’ve already got a nice outside space but are a little bored of it then it may be time for a switch up. Try moving your garden furniture to another corner. Mix up the benches to create a real space for relaxation. Reposition any plant pots or herbs to create a different, more inspiring layout.
If you still aren’t satisfied, consider planting bulbs and seeds with a different colour scheme. By the time the next flowering season comes around your garden will feel completely different and full of colour.
From statement clusters to modern chandeliers, discover inspiration for kitchen island pendant lighting at Heal’s. If you’re thinking about installing a kitchen island then something you’ll want to consider is lighting.
Since kitchen islands stand in the centre of the room away from sockets and wall lights, pendants are normally the solution. Factor the lights your like into your design and build process as sometimes they require additional support from an electrician.
To help inspire you, we’ve compiled some of our favourite kitchen island pendant lighting ideas. If something catches your fancy, click on the image to find it at Heal’s.
Keep it natural & neutral
More often than not, natural materials and neutral hues will lift a space. Keeping your kitchen island pendant lighting neutral doesn’t mean you can’t play around with it. Position each pendant light at a different level to bring a touch of curation to the design.
Industrial kitchen island pendant lighting
Kitchen lighting doesn’t necessarily have to be modern. Opt for timeless designs like the Anglepoise Original 1227 Pendant Light to complete an industrial aesthetic. Other ways to create an industrial look are to use thick black wires or to use raw materials like metal and concrete.
Make a modern statement
A pendant that combines multiple lights under one electrical cord keeps the kitchen island looking streamlined and neat clean. The clean lines of this Ambit Rail Lamp from Muuto really draw the room together and highlight the island.
Exposed bulbs
Exposed bulbs are really clever ways to update your kitchen island pendant lighting without making any major changes. There are many brands out there that offer energy-efficient LED bulbs. These range from organic shapes with exposed filaments to clean opaque orbs that cast indirect light throughout the room.
Modern Scandinavian kitchen island pendant lighting
Scandinavian lighting doesn’t start or end at natural finishes and the ethereal globes we’ve come to identify with it. In fact, lots of mid-century Scandinavian designs boast metallic finishes that develop beautiful patinas as they age.
By pairing metallic finishes with materials like wood and concrete you add an understated opulence to the room’s design. The PH 5 Mini works perfectly here for just that reason.
A contemporary cluster
Clusters come in all shapes and forms and look great suspended over a kitchen island or dining table. You could choose to coordinate the shades and suspend them at different heights. Or you could create a kaleidoscope of colour by combining the same pendants in different hues. To make a real centrepiece, you could even try mixing and matching across different styles. The world is your oyster when it comes to kitchen island clusters.
Go big or go home
If your space is large enough and it fits your style, why not suspend an oversized pendant over your kitchen island? We love the way Brookmans by Smallbone has styled this contemporary kitchen with Tom Dixon’s Spring Pendant Light. It really lends an added dimension of modernity to the space and as well as a statement flourish.
Cutting-edge kitchen island pendant lighting
By carefully combining different styles, you can create a truly unique and creative kitchen. In this image, Flos has positioned the cutting-edge Arrangements Pendant Light in a thoroughly an industrial kitchen. The result is a bold aesthetic that’s united under the glow of the envy-inducing kitchen island pendant lighting.
Our first furniture pub quiz went down a treat, so we thought we’d spoil you with another one. To help you out a little, each question is multiple choice.
Make sure to look at the pictures as they might help to jog your memory. Plus, find out some fun design facts when you check your answers.
Furniture Pub Quiz Questions
1. What was the first Eames Elephant prototype made from?a) Plasticb) Fibreglassc) Plywood
2. What is the Compasso d'Oro?a) A design awardb) An iconic lightc) An interiors magazine
3. Which of these fashion designers has collaborated with Anglepoise?a) Paul Smithb) Mary Quantc) Vivienne Westwood
4. Eero Saarinen’s iconic Pedestal Table is also known as what?a) Daffodil Tableb) Tulip Tablec) Peony Table
5. Which design duo were founding members of Artek?a) Alvar & Aino Aaltob) GamFratesic) Achille & Pier Giacomo Castiglioni
6. A light’s IP rating is used to determine what?a) How bright its bulb isb) If it’s dimmablec) How waterproof it is
7. Which of these three lighting designers worked at the Bauhaus?a) Poul Henningsenb) Vico Magistrettic) Christian Dell
8. Isamu Noguchi’s Akari Pendant Lights are crafted using Shoji paper made using bark from which tree?a) Cherryb) Mulberryc) Persimmon
9. What material is Tom Raffield known for working with?a) Woodb) Steelc) Textiles
10. How were Charles & Ray Eames related?a) Husband and wifeb) Brother and sisterc) Cousins
Furniture Pub Quiz Answers
Find out how you did below and find out a little more about the story behind each answer. If you enjoyed our furniture pub quiz, why not send it on to fellow design fans and see how you stack up?
1. C) Plywood This charming elephant almost didn’t make it to our homes. It was originally created as part of the Eameses’ experimentation into moulding plywood into three-dimensional shapes. But its curved design was deemed too difficult for wider production and it was relegated to the archive. In 2007, Vitra reintroduced the plywood design to its collection and later the plastic edition.
2. A) A design award The Compasso d’Oro is one of the most prestigious design awards with a similar level of distinction to the Red Dot Award. The first award of its kind in Europe, the idea was partly conceived by Italian designer Gio Ponti in 1954. Today it is awarded by the Associazione per il Disegno Industriale (ADI). Past winners include Vico Magistretti, Philippe Starck and Achille Castiglioni
3. A) Paul Smith Both renowned for their ability to combine tradition with modernity, it’s no wonder Anglepoise and Paul Smith chose to collaborate. The stunning collection reinterprets the Type 75 Desk Lamp in three vibrant colourways that exemplify Smith’s unrivalled mastery of colour.
4. B) Tulip Table A true design classic, Eero Saarinen originally designed the Tulip Table to help combat what he saw as “the slum of legs” found under tables. Its sweeping central base inspired the name ‘Tulip’ and transported it to iconic status. Find out more about the Tulip Table here.
5. C) Alvar & Aino Aalto The Finnish design house was founded by husband and wife Alvar and Aino Aalto alongside Maire Gullichsen and Nils-Gustav Hahl. Their collective aim was to sell furniture and “promote a modern culture of living by exhibitions and other educational means”. The name Artek combines the words ‘art’ and ‘technology’. These two concepts were central to the modernist movement Artek is considered part of.
6. C) How waterproof it is An IP rating indicates how resistant a light is to water and dust. Typically for a light to be fully waterproof it should have an IP rating of over 65.
7. C) Christian Dell German silversmith and lighting designer Christian Dell was foreman at the Bauhaus’ metal workshop in Weimar between 1922 and 1925. He went on to work at Frankfurt Art School until he was dismissed under pressure from the Nazi Party. It was then that Walter Gropius offered him a job in the USA. Dell decided to remain in Germany and opened his own jewellery shop after the war.
8. B) Mulberry Known for its paper lanterns, the Japanese town of Gifu inspired the now-iconic Akari Lighting Collection. 75 years after they were first designed the lights are still crafted at a family-run workshop in Gifu. To create each light, a bamboo rod frame is crafted using Noguchi’s original wooden moulds. Then, the light is finished with strips of hand-pressed Shoji paper.
9. A) Wood Tom Raffield is a Cornish designer who specialises in steam-bending wood. His modern designs include lighting, furniture and home accessories. Alongside his team, Raffield crafts each design in his Cornish workshop. Read more about Tom Raffield here.
10. A) Husband and wife The iconic duo met at Michigan’s renowned Cranbrook Academy of Art in 1940. They met when Ray, who studied painting, was asked to help prepare drawings for Charles’ project with his friend Eero Saarinen. Charles became instantly besotted with Ray and proposed via letter soon after. Together they helped advance modern architecture and furniture to iconic status.
With summer on the horizon, we’re sure many of you are thinking of ways to create a modern garden. Whilst landscaping and plants will surely be a top priority, don’t neglect your furniture choices.
Make sure to factor in lighting, textiles, furniture and your comfort when redesigning your garden. To set you on the right path, we’ve compiled some of our most inspiring modern garden furniture ideas. If something catches your fancy, click on the image to find it at Heal’s.
Balcony overhaul
Even the most compact balcony needn’t be without its own modern garden furniture. Fresh colours like white will brighten the space and bring more light to overshadowed balconies or gardens. If you’re particularly short on space, opt for collapsible or armless chairs that slot easily under the table.
Case’s white Eos square outdoor dining table and chairs offer the perfect balance between space-saving design and a modern aesthetic.
Modern Materials
Creating the ultimate modern garden shouldn’t be completely driven by aesthetic. With new technologies emerging every day, this is a great opportunity for you to future-proof your garden. Opt for materials that resist UV rays to hold their colour, or fabrics that can withstand poor weather.
We love Nanna and Jørgen Ditzel's Ocean Collection from Mater. The iconic outdoor dining set has been reimagined and is crafted using ocean plastic waste and recycled plastic. The collection is a great way to clean up the oceans whilst redesigning your modern garden.
Lounging outside
If your space allows, a modern garden sofa is an essential addition to your home. It provides a comfortable place to relax without compromising on cosiness or style. There are many designs out there, so decide what your priorities are before choosing one. For example, your space may be more suited to a corner outdoor sofa.
We love Vincent Sheppard’s Kodo Sofa because of its acrylic rope body. This rope is specially designed to withstand all weather so the sofa can stay outside all year long.
Plastic, fantastic
If you’re looking for something different for your modern garden, look no further than the Bubble Club collection from Kartell. This collection features plastic armchairs and sofas with shapes that look like they belong inside. Taking inspiration from traditional sofas, these voluptuous designs will add a touch of intrigue and modernity to your space.
Plus, if you’re living somewhere with a variable climate, consider integrating a pergola or shade into your modern garden design. This will keep you sheltered from the sun as well as rainy spells.
Go for bold
Colourful furniture is a really simple way to uplift a lacklustre space and transform it into a modern garden. Case’s terracotta-hued Eos collection will do just that with its modern silhouette and versatile pieces. Complete the colourful look with tableware, vases and planters in vibrant hues.
Don’t want to take the leap with colourful furniture? Then consider painting an exterior wall in a vibrant hue for a statement flourish. This way it can be painted over as quickly as it arrived if you change your mind by next summer. If wall painting is still too large a leap, try adding some colourful pots and plants to your garden.
Modern garden rug
The addition of a rug to your garden will bring comfort underfoot and offer you more space to relax. Paired with luxuriously plump cushions and a delicious spread of food, you’ll never want to leave your garden. Alternatively, position it under an outdoor dining area for a more sumptuous feel.
Most outdoor rugs are made using synthetic fibres that make them suitable for keeping outside. However, to preserve their colour and finish, we recommend keeping them inside during rainier months.
Contemporary cool
An outdoor armchair is perfect if you want somewhere to relax but lack space for a sofa. To keep it looking contemporary, opt for streamlined silhouettes and pared-back designs. For example, modern painted rattan and wood lend up-to-date sophistication to a garden.
Vincent Sheppard’s Rocco Lazy Chair provides the perfect spot to sip your morning coffee from. It’s also the perfect size to create comfortable seating on a balcony or terrace.
Reading spot
Transform a corner of your garden into a relaxing haven and the perfect place to lose yourself in a good book. A comfortable lounge chair is a great choice, but don’t forget a side table to rest your book and cuppa on.
Modern wooden garden furniture
Wooden garden furniture is no longer synonymous with park benches and clunky fold-down chairs. Brands like Case, Skagerak and Carl Hansen have revolutionised wood seating to suit modern gardens. Think crisp, clean lines, elegant woods like teak and Scandinavian-inspired silhouettes. In this picture we love the juxtaposition between the concrete background and Case’s Tanso furniture.
Dining outdoors
We’ve saved the best till last. A modern dining table with space to seat the whole family or friendship group is a must. As long as space allows, a large table is ideal for al fresco eating, barbecues and leisurely afternoons spent in the sun. Pair it with comfortable chairs and you’re guaranteed a set-up that no one will want to leave.
We’re big fans of the crisp silhouette and earthy tones of this Vincent Sheppard Kodo Dining Table. It’s sure to bring a contemporary flourish to modern garden spaces.
Discover more
-
Behind The Design
-
At Heal's
-
Tips & Advice
