Design Archives - suki collective

Are You Summer-Entertaining Ready?

Written by admin on November 14, 2024. Posted in 2-minute read, Design, How to.

It isn’t just about the table setting & delicious food.

With the warm weather rolling in, are you summer-entertaining ready? Here are some tips to create an inviting space that is comfortable and stylish for entertaining all summer season.

When entertaining at home over summer, we, quite rightly, invest lots of time focusing on how the table will look and planning the wonderous food that will sit on it. But there’s more to the story – ensuring your garden spaces are looking fresh and full, is also an important part of summer home entertaining and your guests will admire your efforts!

Here are some tips & tricks to help set up your perfect home outdoor entertaining garden spaces.

Prep and Prune for a Fresh Start

Invest some time to tidy up your garden beds. Remove weeds, dead plants, and overgrowth, and give shrubs and hedges a trim to create a clean backdrop for your space.

If your garden is looking a little sparse, add a few more plants for a fuller, lusher look. There are many low maintenance plants available that look great and don’t need as much attention – we love that!

Adding a layer of mulch to your garden bed will help retain moisture in the heat and will give your garden beds a polished look. If your soil is looking tired, consider adding compost or nutrient-rich fertilisers designed for plants in an Australian summer. Talk to an expert to get the right one – your plants will love you for it.

Don’t forget, plants love a little bit of water!

Add Shade for Comfort

Australia’s summer sun can be intense, so creating shaded areas is key for daytime entertaining. A pergola or shade sail is great for larger gardens and as a more permanent solution, while umbrellas provide a more economical solution and flexible shade that you can move as needed.

If you have trees, consider setting up seating or a hammock underneath for a natural, shaded spot.

Create Multiple Seating Zones

Having distinct areas for dining, lounging, and mingling can make your garden feel more spacious and functional. Consider modular outdoor furniture that’s durable and weather-resistant to withstand the Australian climate.

Adding outdoor cushions and throws can add comfort and style while standing up to the outdoor elements. For a more economical solution, floor cushions and picnic blankets are great for setting up a casual, relaxed vibe.

Add Some Evening Light

These days there are lots of great options for creating ambience with lighting in gardens and outdoor entertaining spaces.

You don’t need to invest a lot of money to add a touch of style and ambience to evening entertaining outdoors. Solar-powered lights are particularly suited to Australia’s sunny climate, providing soft illumination at night.

Candles in lanterns or LED candles are perfect for tabletops and for scattering safely in the garden. Be creative, add soft light, your space will look and feel special.

Add Extra Touches for Ambiance

Consider adding decor items like cushions, woven rugs, or unique table settings. Add an outdoor speaker for some background music to set the vibe, and don’t forget citronella candles or bug repellent to keep pesky insects at bay.

With that in mind, did you know that scented oils such as lemon eucalyptus, lavender, thyme, peppermint and lemongrass are said to be offensive to flies and mosquitoes? That might be helpful!

Having a couple of scent diffusers around while in your outdoor space with your favourite scent (or one that flies and mosquitoes don’t like) is another way to create ambience, especially when the breeze carries the scent throughout your gathering.

In summary

With a few of these tips, you can transform your garden and outdoor entertaining space and not only will you wow your guests with your fabulous table setting and delicious food, you will impress them with your thoughtfully styled space and fresh looking garden.

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To Flat Sheet or Not To Flat Sheet?

Written by admin on October 30, 2024. Posted in Design, How to, Styling, Wellness.

To flat sheet or not to flat sheet, that is the question?

In this article we explore Sheet Dreams…why adding a flat sheet to your bed can be a game-changer!

When it comes to making your bed, the debate between using a flat sheet or skipping it entirely often arises.

Some argue for the simplicity of only using a fitted sheet and a duvet. Others swear by the added comfort and practical benefits of including a flat sheet in their bedding ensemble.

Here’s why you might consider using a flat sheet on your bed.

1. Enhanced Comfort and Versatility

A flat sheet is a versatile layer that can enhance comfort in multiple ways.

It acts as a barrier between you and your duvet, and if it’s 100% French flax linen, it provides a soft, breathable layer that can adjust to different temperatures.

During warmer nights, it can be used on its own for lightweight coverage and on cooler nights, it adds an extra insulating layer beneath your duvet.

2. Improved Sleep Quality

With the added comfort and temperature regulation abilities that a flat sheet can provide, you may find that you sleep more comfortably throughout the night.

If you sleep in 100% French flax linen sheets, you can say goodbye to night sweats – they keep you cool on warm nights and cosy on cooler nights.

This can lead to better sleep quality, helping you wake up feeling refreshed and well-rested.

3. Protects Your Bedding

One of the more practical benefits of using a flat sheet is that it helps protect your other bedding, such as the duvet cover, and can extend the wash cycle of your duvet cover by reducing the frequency of needing to wash it.

This can be helpful being a bulkier item.

4. Personal Preference

Ultimately, whether to use a flat sheet or not comes down to personal preference.

Some people find it adds an extra level of comfort and cosiness, while others may prefer the minimalism of only a fitted sheet and duvet.

Experimenting with different bedding configurations can help you find what works best for your sleeping habits and comfort.

So, Sheet Dreams Everyone!

While the decision to use a flat sheet on your bed is a matter of personal choice, it offers some practical benefits that can be a game-changer and enhance your sleeping experience.

Whether you’re looking to protect your bedding investment or simply enjoy the added layer of comfort, incorporating a flat sheet into your bedding setup can be a simple yet effective way to elevate your sleep environment and to get you closer to sweet dreams. Explore suki. 100% French flax linen bedding.

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How Many is Too Many?

Written by admin on October 21, 2024. Posted in Design, How to, Styling.

Throw cushions can instantly transform a bed from looking plain to plush and inviting. They can add colour, texture, and a sense of cosiness, making your bed the centrepiece of the room. So, how many throw cushions is too many?

There’s a fine line between creating a stylish, comfortable bed and overwhelming it with an excessive number of cushions.

Read on to explore the factors that can help you find the perfect balance.

Size Matters!

The size of your bed plays a significant role in determining the perfect number of throw cushions. Here’s a general guide.

Twin or Single Bed: one to two cushions are usually sufficient. Since the bed itself is smaller, too many cushions can make it look cluttered and leave little room for functionality.
Double Bed: two to four cushions work well. This allows for a couple of accent pieces without overcrowding the space.
Queen Bed: three to four cushions are ideal. You have more space to play with, so you can mix different sizes and shapes without overwhelming the bed.
King Bed: Four to six cushions can be used comfortably. With a larger surface area, you have the freedom to use more cushions to create a layered, luxurious look.

Purpose and Functionality

Consider the practicality of your bed. If you’re using it primarily for sleeping and relaxing vs being a guest room bed, too many cushions might be a hassle. Having to remove and replace them every time you get in or out of bed can become tedious.

Aim for a balance that enhances comfort and style without creating too much extra work. A few well-chosen cushions can still make a statement without sacrificing convenience.

Design and Aesthetics

The style of the bedroom can guide the number of throw cushions you use.

Minimalist or Modern Style: fewer cushions (around one to three) are preferable to maintain a clean, uncluttered look. Select cushions in solid colours or subtle patterns that complement your bedding.

Bohemian or Eclectic Style: more cushions (up to six depending on your bed size) can fit well, as these styles embrace a mix of colours, patterns, and textures. Layering various sizes and styles can create a cosy, lived-in feel.

Traditional or Classic Style: a moderate number of cushions (four to six) often works best. Choose cushions that match the colour scheme of the room.

Cushion Size and Shape

Mixing different sizes and shapes can add visual interest without requiring many cushions. Combining square, rectangular, and round cushions in varying sizes can be interesting.

For example, a king bed might look well-balanced with two large euro pillows, your stack of standard pillows, and then two different sizes of square throw cushions with a smaller lumbar cushion in front.

Personal Preference and Comfort

Ultimately, the right number of throw cushions comes down to personal preference. Some people love the look of stacked cushions, while others prefer a simpler look with fewer cushions. It’s important that your bed reflects your style and feels comfortable for you.

Finding the right number of throw cushions for your bed is about achieving a balance between style, comfort, and practicality. There is no strict rule, although, considering the size of your bed and your personal taste, will help you create a bed that looks stylish and inviting.

Remember, less can be more, and sometimes a few carefully chosen cushions can have a greater impact than an overabundance. When in doubt, start with fewer cushions and add more until you find the perfect look and feel for your space.

Have fun with it!

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French Linen Bedding: Worth Every Dollar

Written by admin on October 13, 2024. Posted in Design, Styling, Wellness.

When it comes to bedding, quality matters. French flax linen is worth every dollar.

While linen bedding may initially seem like a higher investment, we have seen an increase in popularity and the choice of linen bedding due to its unique benefits and long-lasting durability.

At suki.collective, we believe we offer some of the very best French flax linen bedding at competitive prices that also reflects the value and high quality of our private label product.

Read on to discover why French flax linen bedding is a worthwhile investment.

Unparalleled Comfort

Breathability & Temperature Regulating
- Linen is naturally breathable, allowing air to circulate freely, keeping you cool on warm nights and warm on cooler nights.
- No more night sweats.
Softness
- Linen becomes softer and more luxurious with each wash.

Exceptional Durability

Long-lasting
- French flax linen is known for its strength and durability.
- It will last for many years, making linen bedding a worth-while investment.

Hypoallergenic Properties

Antibacterial Qualities
- French linen is naturally antibacterial, making it a great choice for allergy sufferers.
Gentle on Skin
- The soft, natural fibres of linen are gentle on sensitive skin.

A More Sustainable Choice

Eco-friendly
- Flax, the source of linen, is a sustainable crop that requires less water, fertiliser and pesticides compared to cotton making it a great sustainable choice.
- This does result in smaller crops and smaller productions of linen yarn which increases the cost of the yarn and of the finished French linen product.
The whole flax plant is used
- the fibre is used to make linen fabric and the flax seeds are used to make flax seed oil and other natural nutritional supplements.
- There is very little waste.

While French flax linen bedding may have a higher initial cost compared to other bedding materials, its long-term benefits and the exceptional quality of our linen bedding make it a worthwhile investment.

By choosing suki. French linen bedding, you’re not just buying bedding, you’re investing in a high quality and sustainable sleep experience and caring for your overall well-being.

Don’t hesitate, make your selection and feel confident that with suki. you are buying high quality, long-lasting, super soft & cosy French flax linen bedding.

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Homewares Trend Watch: Spotlighting 4 Styles

Written by admin on August 8, 2024. Posted in Design, Styling.

The world of home decor is constantly evolving, with new trends emerging to inspire and refresh our living spaces.

In this suki speak article, we’re peeking into the emerging trends of homewares, highlighting some of the hottest styles that are set to continue to take centre stage or are emerging onto centre stage!

4 Key Trends

1. Sustainable Luxe: eco-conscious opulence

Luxury goes green! Consumers are increasingly seeking sustainable homewares that are both beautiful and eco-friendly.

Look for pieces crafted from recycled materials, artisan handcrafted and ethically sourced textiles and natural fibres like 100% French Flax linen. Expect to see luxurious finishes and textures combined with a commitment to environmental responsibility.

100% French flax linen bedding - chic charcoal - emerging homewares trends

2. Biophilic Design: what the heck is that?

Nature is calling! Biophilic design is all about bringing the outdoors in, it’s about incorporating elements of the natural world into your home.

This trend embraces organic shapes, textured materials like wicker, rattan and linen, and an abundance of greenery. Consider incorporating houseplants and natural light to create a space that fosters a sense of wellbeing.

3. Japandi: continues at centre stage as a fusion of serenity

This trend seamlessly blends the minimalist elegance of Japanese design with the warmth and functionality of Scandinavian style.

Think clean lines, natural materials like wood, bamboo and linen and a focus on creating a calming and clutter-free environment. Soft, neutral tones like beige and light grey will dominate, accented with pops of black for depth.

4. Minimalist Maximalism: what a mouthful!

There appears to be a rise in what is called ‘minimalist maximalism’. It’s essentially maximalism with a twist!

We see this trend combining minimalism’s preference for simplicity and decluttering with maximalism’s use of colours, textures, and layers. The outcome is a paired-back look that still has interest and shows your personality.

The core includes neutral tones with pops of vibrant colours as well as a thoughtful collection of a few statement décor pieces. This trend enables you to create a relaxing sanctuary at home that is dynamic without being overwhelming. The key is to create a cohesive look that reflects your individual taste.

How to Embrace Upcoming Trends

Don’t feel pressured to overhaul your entire home! Here are some tips to incorporate these emerging trends into your existing space:

Start small: update your throw pillows, add a statement vase, or swap out your artwork for a piece reflecting the new trend.
Focus on accessories: accessories are a great way to experiment with trends without a major commitment.
Embrace natural materials: opt for natural materials like wood, stone, and 100% French flax linen to create a timeless and biophilic atmosphere.

Artisan ceramics - Desmond vase & Joe vase - emerging homewares trends

Remember, your home should be a reflection of YOU!

Don’t be afraid to mix and match these trends or to create your own unique style.

Have fun styling your space and be sure to love how your space is looking. If you don’t love it, use some of the tips above to help make changes that you do love.

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Sustainable Sleep Solutions

Written by admin on June 12, 2024. Posted in Design, Wellness.

Why choose French flax linen bedding for the best sleep and be eco-conscious while doing it?

A good night’s sleep is more important than ever for our physical and mental health. Additionally, we’re also increasingly aware of the environmental impact of our choices.

This extends to our bedrooms, and the sheets we choose can significantly impact both our sleep quality and the environment.

Enter French flax linen bedding, a luxurious and sustainable sleep solution that’s gaining traction for all the right reasons.

What is French Flax Linen Bedding?

French flax linen, is a natural fabric woven from flax fibres grown primarily in France and Belgium. The flax plant requires minimal water and thrives in cooler climates, making it a more eco-friendly option compared to cotton, which can be water-intensive.

Why Choose French Flax Linen Bedding?

Beyond its sustainable qualities, French flax linen offers a multitude of benefits for a healthy sleep experience:

Temperature Regulation: French flax linen is naturally breathable and wicks away moisture, keeping you cool in summer and warm in winter. This makes it ideal for year-round comfort, especially for those who tend to run a higher temperature when sleeping.

Durability: linen fibres are incredibly strong and become softer with every wash, ensuring your sheets will last for years to come. This translates to less waste and a more sustainable choice in the long run.

Hypoallergenic: French flax linen is naturally resistant to dust mites, mould, and mildew, making it a great option for allergy sufferers and those with sensitive skin.

Luxuriously soft: linen has a unique texture that becomes softer and more supple over time. It drapes beautifully and creates a cool feeling against the skin without heaviness.

Sustainable Benefits of French Flax Linen Bedding

Reduced Water Usage: flax requires significantly less water to grow compared to cotton, making it a more water-efficient crop.

Reduced Chemical Use: linen cultivation typically requires fewer pesticides and herbicides, minimising environmental impact.

Biodegradable Fabric: at the end of its lifespan, French flax linen bedding biodegrades naturally, leaving no harmful microplastics behind.

Durable Investment: high-quality French flax linen sheets are built to last, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimising textile waste. This means you can invest in a number of different colour options and in having multiple sets to rotate use verses investing to frequently replace.

By opting for French flax linen bedding, you are not just investing in a superior sleep experience, you are also making a conscious choice for a healthier planet.

Shop suki. French flax linen bedding to help ensure your best sleep experience.

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Unlock Your Dream Space

Written by admin on June 6, 2024. Posted in Design.

Why create a mood board? Are you dreaming of transforming your bedroom into a cosy sanctuary but you’re not quite sure where to start?

The secret lies in creating your very own mood board. In this guide, we’ll delve into why crafting a mood board can be an essential first step in helping you focus on the look and feel you want to achieve and can help ensure you are selecting ideal pieces for your sleep sanctuary.

There are so many options out there, how do you ensure you’re making the perfect choice?

The power of mood boards: think of it as your bedroom’s blueprint – a visual roadmap that brings your design dreams to life.

The 4 reasons below are why crafting a mood board is your secret weapon when selecting everything from pieces of furniture through to the type of bedding you want to sleep in and the robe you would like to lounge in.

Visualise your vision: words can only convey so much. With a mood board, you can visually articulate your design aspirations, from colour schemes to texture preferences, in vivid detail.

Streamline decision-making: faced with a dizzying array of options? A mood board helps narrow down your choices by allowing you to compare and contrast different styles, patterns, and colours at a glance.

Achieve a cohesive style: cohesion is key to a harmonious bedroom aesthetic. By compiling images of your desired bedding, furniture, and décor elements, you can ensure that each element seamlessly complements the overall look and feel of your space.

Spark creativity: let your imagination run wild! Experiment with bold contrasts, subtle accents, and unexpected pairings until you discover the perfect combination that speaks to your unique sense of style.

Are you now ready to embark on your mood boarding adventure?

Read on for a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Step 1: determine the pieces you need: furniture, bedding, accessories. Gather inspiration scour design blogs, Pinterest boards, and Instagram feeds for inspiration. Save any images that resonate with your vision.

Step 2: Define your palette, what colour speaks to your soul? Whether you’re drawn to soothing neutrals or earthy naturals, select a cohesive colour scheme that sets the tone for your bedroom oasis.

Step 3: Mix and match textures, this is the secret sauce that adds depth and dimension to your mood board. Experiment with different fabrics and finishes to create visual interest and tactile appeal.

Step 4: Curate your selection – now comes the fun part. For example, curating beautiful bedding is pivotal to finishing your sleep space. Not only do you want it to look amazing, but you also want it to be cosy and soft to sleep in. French flax linen bedding: sheets, duvet covers and pillowcases in complementary colours can truly elevate your sleep space and add beautiful texture and depth.

Step 5: It’s time to fine-tune your design – take a step back and assess your mood board with a discerning eye. Does it capture the essence of your design vision? Make any necessary tweaks or adjustments until you’re 100% satisfied with the result.

If the answer is yes, congratulations – you’ve officially unlocked the power of the mood board!

Armed with your carefully curated vision, you’re now ready to embark on your quest for the ultimate bedroom bliss. So go ahead, indulge your design dreams, and transform your sleep space into a sanctuary that’s as stylish as it is serene.

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Quick Tips For Styling Your Bed

Written by admin on April 27, 2024. Posted in Design.

It can be quick, simple and very stlish.

Layering is key:

Start with the foundation: use a fitted sheet in a soft, breathable fabric like French flax linen. Ensure it fits your mattress properly, it should be nice and snug.
Layer for comfort and style: a flat sheet adds another layer of comfort and flexibility. It can be tucked in for a more structured look or left loose for a more relaxed vibe.
Duvet duvet!: the duvet cover is the centrepiece. Choose a fabric that complements your sheets and the overall feel you want. French flax linen is a beautifully natural fabric that not only looks so stylish but also helps regulate your body temperature as you sleep, keeping you cool in summer and cosy in winter. You could colour match with your French flax linen sheets or choose a complimentary colour to add dimension.

How to Fold Your Duvet?: there are a couple of different ways to fold your duvet for a stylish look and you can certainly experiment. Our favourite look is to simply fold the top one 5th of the duvet down towards the foot of the bed and having a relaxed flat sheet look or a tucked in flat sheet for a more structured look.

Pillow piles and cushions – we say keep it simple & stylish:

Simple Stack: we think a simple stack of four sleeping pillows (2 each side of the bed for king and queen sizes) with French flax linen pillowcases on them is stylish. These can be stacked two on top of each other or stacked one in front of the other if you prefer a little more height.
Who doesn’t love a decorative cushion or two on the bed?: in front of your pillow piles, layer two decorative cushions that complement your duvet cover and sheets. These could have linen covers in a complimentary colour or be a different texture if you would like to add more dimension and visual interest.

Important: Keep it simple and stylish so that you love the look and so that the decorative cushions go on the bed each time it’s made rather than sit on the floor beside the bed!

Accessories – not essential however can add an extra touch:

You could throw on a blanket: drape a throw blanket casually at the foot of the bed for an extra layer of warmth and texture.

Or add a personal touch: placing a small book stack, a framed photo, a small decorative box or ceramic, or a vase with a single stem flower on your bedside table can add a personal touch.

Some additional tips for styling your sleep space:

Think texture: consider layering different textures like linen sheets and duvet cover with a velvet decorative cushion, and a chunky knit blanket for a cosy winter feel.
Prioritise sustainability: opt for eco-friendly materials like flax linen sheets for a healthy sleep environment and a lighter footprint.
Rotate your looks: at sheet washing time, rotate your sheets, choose a different coloured duvet cover and use different decorative cushions – helps keep it interesting.
Layer lighting: using ambient lamps on your bedside tables and task lighting for reading if needed.
If you have space, don’t forget the foot of the bed: a stylish bench can add functionality and visual appeal.

In summary:

Keeping the look of your bed simple and stylish will most likely mean that it gets made each day! The most important thing is to create a bed that reflects your personality and makes you feel comfortable and relaxed so that you get good sleep. Have fun and experiment with different styles to create your perfect sleep space!

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