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10 ways to add bamboo style to your home

 

Bamboo is proving a popular trend for interiors again in 2021 as it is inexpensive, simple to use, very stylish and eco-friendly. Bamboo evokes a natural feeling of summer on a tropical island and is instantly relaxing! No wonder it is popular! If you would like some inspiration on how to add bamboo style to your home, read on!

1. Clever ways with bamboo fencing.

 

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Bamboo adds a relaxed vibe to rooms

Bamboo fencing is great for the garden, but can also be used very effectively in the home, office areas and In your home, you can use a bamboo partition to divide your lounge and dining area, to introduce a luxurious ambiance and make an eye-catching focus. In the bathroom a bamboo partition can be used to separate the shower area or toilet. A bamboo partition can also be successfully used to divide a children’s bedroom to give them both their private space.

 

To achieve ‘the look’, the bamboo can be set in concrete in long plant troughs and when the concrete is dry, a layer of natural pebbles can be poured on top to conceal the concrete. Choose lighter coloured bamboo poles to lighten a darkly coloured area.

 

2. Invest in some bamboo blinds

 

To continue the island feeling evoked by bamboo, add some bamboo blinds to the windows or choose some curtains with bamboo-print fabric. If you are not overlooked you can make an innovative plant display out of three or four pieces of bamboo of the same length, with a piece cut out to fit a  small plant pot. The bamboo is then hung vertically at equal distances and suspended from just above your window. The holes can be filled with small trailing plants or fresh herbs.

 

3. Decorate a bare wall

 

A clever way to add character to a bare wall is to line it with bamboo as this will totally transform the room and there is something about bamboo that makes it very soothing. It is best to use split bamboo canes as these have one flat side which makes it easier to fix them to the wall. For a large area, bamboo panelling is very effective and can be used on the ceiling too. Bamboo comes in a variety of colours from light natural bamboo to shades of dark mahogany – your choice!

 

4. Add a bamboo framed mirror

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Give mirrors, pictures and family photos a new look!

!Adding a large mirror to a plain wall always transforms the room as it reflects light, making the room brighter. You can buy such a mirror, but it is not difficult to use some split bamboo to make a frame and of course this works for wall pictures and photographs too.

 

5. Choose the perfect colour theme

 

Bamboo creates a natural feeling in any room and this is easy to mirror with your soft furnishings. Armchairs and sofas in cream, terracotta and green are perfect and cushions with palm tree designs or leafy patterns develop the theme. Watch out in charity shops, eBay and similar, for a large bamboo chair. This is the ideal choice and you will find it surprisingly light, sturdy and comfortable. Alternatively if you have a colour scheme you love in your home, get out the paintbrush and paint your bamboo to match!

6. Choose a bamboo coffee table

 

There are a variety of bamboo styles of tables that are perfect for your home or a waiting area at work. Some coffee tables have glass panels and others are made from slatted bamboo which is smooth enough for a tray of drinks.

7. Bamboo shelves are practical

 

Bamboo shelving is not only fashionable, but also very practical. You can find three and four tier shelf units and to keep things tidy, you can add natural woven or hessian baskets. The shelves will prove useful in any room in your home and your bamboo theme can be developed by dedicating one of the shelves to a display of seashells and driftwood.

8. Bamboo is perfect for towel rails

 

Bamboo is the perfect material for creating a versatile towel rail for use at home in your kitchen or bathroom or at work. The idea is simple and very practical. As well as traditional styled towel rails, the new ladder style works really well when space is tight. These are straight forward to make too –

9. Add some other bamboo accessories

 

There are plenty of bamboo products on the market because bamboo is environmentally friendly and is a sustainable crop. Amongst the accessories you will see are over-sized lampshades, stools and magazine racks. If you are adding a bamboo screen to your bedroom, a bamboo headboard will complement it perfectly. If you enjoy DIY projects, you will find some inspirational ideas online:   

10. A pot of bamboo for the finishing touch!

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Bamboo trees come in a myriad of sizes

 

This year, indoor plants are big news and what better idea than adding a pot of bamboo to your home or office? You can buy small single bamboo shoots and several in a container can look good on a mantelpiece. You can get larger displays of several pieces of bamboo that are eye-catching for a desk or coffee table, but why not celebrate bamboo big time with a huge leafy tree? You can place your tree to add interest to a dull corner or as a dramatic feature and focus to your room.  

To ensure that your bamboo always looks in perfect condition and maintains its size and shape, why not choose a pot of artificial bamboo? A large pot of leafy bamboo will bring instant colour and life to any setting and looks perfect in one of this season’s natural textured or metallic pots. Why not give your home a new look, with the garden vibe of bamboo?

 

  • Next month we look at ways to use bamboo creatively outside in your garden – and its not just as a plant trellis! 

 

 

 

 

 

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How to create the perfect reception area

First impressions really count! Your company, restaurant or hotel reception is the first place visitors see and it is important that it conveys the right message to them. Your reception should be attractive and welcoming and importantly, reflect your company’s unique character. The reception area should also project a feeling of professionalism and efficiency as well as trustworthiness. If you are planning a makeover for your reception area, think about the style that will suit you best. Our ideas tell you how to create the perfect reception area.

Extending a warm welcome

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How to create the perfect reception area – add a large indoor plant!

A welcoming reception area is important when you have a doctor’s surgery or dental practice and want to put your visitors at ease. This type of character for a reception works well for hotels too and any business where people matter and you want to establish a good relationship with them.

Choose warm, muted colours as these are more relaxing than stark and clinical white. Furniture should be comfortable too. If you choose fabric covered seating, make sure that the fabric is stain resistant so that it will be easy to keep them looking good. Add some relaxing touches such as paintings on the walls, lamps and plenty of  large leafy indoor plants.

A relaxing character

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A relaxing and calming design

Stylish reception areas with smart furniture, no clutter and the emphasis on natural materials are a popular style for beauty salons and spas. This style exudes serenity and zen and also works well for companies as it can prove both relaxing and inspirational. Soft muted colours such as cream, browns and greens all work well and are enhanced by soft  lighting. Mellow wooden furniture in a minimalistic style is ideal and large abstract wall paintings that mirror the colours of nature will also accentuate this style. Bring the outdoors inside with some extra large indoor plants or a dramatic wall display of numerous trailing plants. If you do not feel particularly ‘green fingered’, you can invest in some quality faux plants as the carefree alternative.

Exude luxury                                     

 

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use luxurious floral displays

If your company specialises in prestigious goods or your hotel or restaurant is appealing to those with plenty of money, your reception area needs to be very stylish and reassuring to your customers that are the elite and are going to get truly excellent service throughout.

Your style should be carefully chosen pieces of beautifully made, quality furniture such as a leather Chesterfield with some unusual accents in polished metal such as occasional tables or wall lights. Add drama to the area with bold colours and large painting. Mirror these in a large arrangement of beautiful fresh flowers.

Be dynamic in your style

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Your reception can have fun appeal too!

If your company style is fast moving, enthusiastic and trendy, this is a fun style to mirror in your reception area. Showcase your company’s colours with a feature wall in the main colour with either your logo or inspiring slogan. Seating and accessories should be in any other company colour. Furniture styles should be smart and in practical styles. Plenty of natural daylight is perfect, but if not, excellent lighting will prove practical and energising.

Changing the look of your reception area can be relatively easy and the three main points to focus on are to maximise on space, use colour effectively to help create your chosen style and thirdly, to ensure that your chosen lighting is of the right style and in the right location. Your bright new reception area is definitely the best way to define your company’s character – along with a warm personal welcome to everyone who steps through the door.

For further inspiration, take a look at –

● http://www.smbceo.com/2016/11/29/how-to-choose-the-right-furniture-for-your-office-reception-area/

 

 

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6 Ways to Create an Eco-Friendly Restaurant

In the last few years, eco-friendly restaurant designs have become game-changers in the commercial interior industry. More consumers are opting for restaurants that offer healthy food and a sustainable, eco-friendly atmosphere. Restaurant designers are having to meet new generation standards for more environmental friendly restaurants.

So let us discuss exactly what we mean when we say ‘eco-friendly restaurant design.’ Along with healthy food, the space should be environmentally friendly too. Eco-friendly design focuses on minimum adverse impact on nature by choosing the right materials and techniques.

A recent survey showed that 65-70% of consumers are willing to spend more on green restaurants and dining that causes less harm to our environment. Restaurateurs and interior designers are becoming more conscious of the eco-friendly benefits such as reduced energy consumption, low maintenance cost, reduced usage of toxic material and better air quality. With this in mind, let us take a look at how we can create green, eco-friendly restaurant spaces.

6 Ways to Create an Eco- Friendly Restaurant

Reducing water wastage

The amount of water that is wasted can add up to millions of gallons. From dishwashing stations to bathrooms, from cooking to serving customers. With the amount of water depleting, it is of utmost importance to conserve it. This can be achieved by using low flow faucets, sensor-activated faucets, energy star appliances and equipping restrooms with water-saving toilets and urinals.

If the restaurant has landscapes and greenery, then use sprinklers with timers or opt for artificial plants as this requires no water at all.

Using energy star appliances

Energy star appliances reduce the consumption of water and electricity. Smart investment in these appliances will reduce the costs in the long run.

Lighting and electricity usage

When it comes to light fixtures and decorative elements in a restaurant these play a significant role. Maximum natural lighting and ventilation is a winner, with lots of open spaces and large windows. But in terms of artificial lighting, energy-efficient light fixtures such as LED, Halogen and CFL’s can be used. Energy star light fixtures can be installed as they reduce the heat by 75% and are considered as more sustainable options. Incorporating sensor-operated lights that switch on only when spaces (restrooms, refrigerators) are in use, and on spot air conditioners are great alternatives.

Performing thermostat check

Indoor temperatures should be kept moderate. It is always wise to use a programmable thermostat. 

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Using sustainable materials

The roofing material should be energy star compliant. Include a special coating or glazing to windows that can prevent extreme temperatures and provide thermal comfort. Smart awnings can be installed on windows to reduce solar heat. Paints should be heat reflective and non-hazardous such as low volatile organic compound paints. Painting the walls in lighter shades can reflect 80% of solar radiation.

Also walls, furniture and floorings can be adorned with sustainable materials such as wood, cork and bamboo. Concrete and brick are apt in terms of eco-friendliness and in creating a beautiful ambience.  Using cotton and wool for upholstery is a great alternative to man-made synthetics.

Effective waste management

Industrial waste should be recycled properly, if not discarded appropriately. Nowadays most of the restaurants are becoming ‘zero waste’. This means they do not produce any food waste or rubbish in order to reduce their carbon footprint on the world.

Aiming to make your restaurant eco friendly is definitely a challenge on its own. But by implementing the above and going by the eco-friendly design concepts, designers and restaurateurs will surely create a positive impact on society and the environment at large.

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Sustainable Interior Design

As the world is progressing towards globalisation, sustainability and environmental issues have become a significant concern. This is especially true in the interior design industry.  We often hear the term ‘sustainable interior design’.

So what is it? 

What is Sustainable Interior Design?

Sustainable interior design takes into account, environmental concerns and issues when designing a space. It uses eco-friendly design techniques and materials that are proven to have a healthy impact on the surroundings and the users. Thus helping to reduce energy consumption, pollution and waste.

Things to Consider When Designing Sustainably

Take a look at how you can incorporate sustainable interior design techniques into commercial spaces. 

Energy

  • Keep energy consumption factors in mind when creating interior spaces, especially in commercial buildings and more importantly the hospitality industry.  The energy usage per square foot is pretty high in hotels than any other buildings and heating and lighting play a crucial role. Windows should provide enough ventilation and natural light.
  • Consider using carpets, they are known to be excellent thermal insulations capturing 10% of the room’s heat.
  • Using energy star equipment, low flow faucets or sensor-controlled ones can reduce the water consumption.
  • Fluorescent, LED lights are considered the right option. At the same time, sensors and other energy controlling equipment can be used for controlling light and heat in spaces where it is not frequently used.

Floresy - LED Lighting

Materials

  • As a designer,  opt for locally sourced products when creating a space. Buying local has a positive impact on the environment as it lessens the cost of transportation and reduces pollution.
  • Scope out manufactures that keep the eco-friendly concept in mind. You can find manufactures and furniture designers who make luxury furniture products out of reclaimed wood and recycled materials which all goes to minimising the cost and reducing waste.
  •  Construction engineers, architects, designers and consumers alike have started incorporating natural, environment-friendly materials into their designs. Materials such as concrete, wood, bamboo, cork, organic cotton, natural stone, recycled plastic. Make it a priority to pick materials which have a low environmental impact.

Floresy Bamboo

  • Regular paints with harmful chemicals can be replaced with low “volatile organic compound” (VOC) paints that reduce the negative impact on the environment. Light coloured walls reflect more light, therefore choosing the right wall colours tend to reduce the usage of artificial lighting in interior spaces.
  • Last but not least, beautifying the surroundings with plants and trees. Not only do they have a positive impact on our health, but they also affect climate control and noise reduction in an interior space.

Research shows that with the beginning of the new decade, sustainability has become the most popular global trend in 2020. Especially in the commercial design industry.  We expect to see rapid growth in the next five years compared to the past decade. With this in mind, interior designers should look to the more sustainable approach for the protection of our environment.

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5 Ways for Interior Designers to Keep working through COVID-19

Covid-19 is a global pandemic affecting each and every one of us – in all aspects of our lives. How we live, how we move around and importantly, how we work. Some businesses and markets have been forced to close. Others have taken this opportunity to adapt to the ‘new normal’ of isolation, self-distancing and quarantine.

For interior designers, this may mean that some projects have been ‘put on hold’. This doesn’t mean you have to stop working and offering a high-quality service. There are still things you can do during this period. This phase in time will be significant in many ways, both for you and your customers as everyone adapts.

Tips for Working Through Covid-19

1. Keep working!

Although times are difficult, as lockdown eases, interior designers can certainly get back to business. Quoting on new jobs is perfectly possible. You can proceed with designing and costing for new projects just as before. Designers will be able to progress further with some projects if social distancing can be maintained and all the materials easily obtained.

Floresy - colour chart

2. Source online

Although some of your suppliers may not have re-opened yet, it is possible to source many items including paints, light fittings and furniture from online companies with no supply chain problems. If you are looking for antique and vintage pieces of furniture, this is easy too. There are many antique shops with excellent websites. As for bespoke pieces, almost all craftsmen are already back in their workshops.

Reupholstery and curtain making is usually undertaken by people in their homes. So again, you will find that most are already back at work – if they ever stopped!

3. Keep up with creativity!

Many artisans have used lockdown to create wonderful new custom made wallpapers, light fittings and fabric designs. So it’s the perfect time to keep abreast of the latest ideas that you’ll be able to incorporate in your work. Several interior designers are currently looking at offering clients ‘decorative consultations’. A service where you can advise on colours, fabrics as well as accessories to give rooms a fresh new look. Budget is an important consideration as many people do not have so much disposable income right now.

4. Offer Virtual consultations during Covid-19 !

Communication methods have changed dramatically in the last few months and these changes are here to stay! You may well have been using CAD for drawings and designs, but you can show these to clients and discuss all aspects using Zoom/ FaceTime / WhatsApp and be able to give your clients digital presentations at every stage and minimise face-to-face meetings.

A number of interior designers are now offering house owners short, reasonably priced virtual consultations to advise them on how to make changes to their living space and these are proving very popular – especially those with clever recycling and upcycling ideas.

5. Time for marketing

Whilst you have more time at your disposal, it would be good to research the contact details of companies that could be interested in your services once lockdown has eased. Rethink or adjust your sales pitch accordingly and show that you are very happy to undertake projects of all sizes – especially those making socially distancing easier as health and safety will now have the highest priority. Consider whether your website is current and adjust the text to make reference to the last few months. It may well be worth exploring advertising opportunities that will reach the many house owners who have discovered through lockdown that they need to make modest alterations to their homes.

Lockdown doesn’t have to be an end to work. With creative thinking, this could be a new opportunity to develop your skills and your business.

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Nordic Design Ideas

The distinctive interior style known as ‘Nordic Design’ has been around since the 1950s, flourishing in the five Nordic countries – Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Iceland. 

This style embraces three keywords:

  • Minimalism 
  • Simplicity
  • Functionality. 

Nordic design is currently proving extremely popular in private homes, restaurants and in the corporate environment because it is a look that is fresh, very functional whilst also welcoming. To execute this look, always create with an eco-friendly and sustainable approach in mind.

Having said that, there is no single Nordic Design.  Rather it is more of a state of mind and lifestyle choice that oozes understated elegance. It is best described by the Danish word Hygge; feeling of warmth, cosiness and well-being.

The nordic design definitely preceded minimalism and in fact championed it! The ethos of this style is that the space should look light and airy and that the focus should be on the simple lines of the furniture. Both light and air should be able to flow freely through the room.

Materials

Natural elements such as wood, stone and plants are really important. Wood is very popular and is used for cladding walls and ceilings to add warmth and texture. Instead of carpets, natural or painted wooden floors are much preferred. 

Colour 

The colour palette focuses on soft hues and plenty of natural shades such as white, creams, coffee shades and cool greys. Other colours used include the softest shades of pink and blue.

Furnishing

Furniture designs are very important as the piece must be stylish with clean lines and made with great craftsmanship. Shape is vital and each item of furniture should have a beautiful silhouette. In Nordic-style rooms, ‘a little is definitely more’ with few ornaments and absolutely no clutter. 

Soft furnishings are also in mellow tones, but texture is really important for cushions, rugs and throws. Introduce colourful accents with these items too – rich gold or strong turquoise being popular choices. 

Nordic Lighting

Light is an essential consideration as the room must be light and bright to achieve a livable finish. Windows are large and bare with no dressings to maximise the amount of daylight coming in. 

Artificial Nature 

One of the easiest ways to introduce a natural splash of colour – and one that is regularly used by Nordic designers – is to introduce indoor plants. Some types of indoor plants are perfect to use to complement this style as they soften the lines in a lovely natural way. Strategically place one or two plants, including a large dramatic plant with lush green foliage. 

Amongst the popular varieties to use for Nordic designs are:

  • Large orchids
  • Philodendrons 
  • Rubber Plants (Ficus Robusta).
  • Pots of Sansevieria Trifasciata – more commonly known as ‘snake plants’ or ‘mother-in-law’s tongue’.

These can help mirror the clean clear-cut lines of a Nordic style room perfectly. To create some interest in a corner or on top of a wall unit, Golden Pottos (Scindapsus Aureus) is a lovely leafy trailing plant that will do the job perfectly! 

You can accommodate these with the perfect planters.  Choose those in natural materials such as terracotta or wicker.

To complete the look in true Nordic style, add a couple of pieces of high-quality ceramics and some candles. After that, relax in this perfectly curated Nordic style room and enjoy the Hygge…

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    Redecorate your Hotel: When is the Right Time?

    Whether your hotel is classically or contemporarily styled, it is important that it always looks fresh, smart and welcoming to guests. If the public areas have not been decorated for a few years, now is the time to plan a makeover!

    Colour scheme

    Whilst a major renovation can prove very costly; if your furniture is still looking good, you will be surprised and delighted how rooms can be revitalised. A fresh coat of paint and the introduction of attractive new features is one of the many simple steps you can take.

    The first thing to consider is the colour palette:

    • Bright colours can make a room look smaller and can look tired and date quicker than classic neutral shades. The classic shades that have stood the test of time are magnolia and cream.  Dove grey is a popular neutral shade that can look really good! Even better if you can combine accents of bright colours used for accessories such as cushions and lampshades.
    • If you feel the walls are looking dull, you can introduce a ‘statement’ wall in a complementary darker tone. Claret, forest green or French navy – depending on the colour scheme of your furniture – would contrast nicely.
    • New artwork will give rooms a fresh new look too. Whilst buying sizeable pieces might be ‘out of budget’, it is well worth seeking out some local artists who will happily lend you pieces of their work as it gives them exposure and could lead to sales.

    colour sample pallet

    Try Lighting

    Lighting can also make a room look tired and dull. So it is worth looking at how you can ‘ring the changes’ with some new lamps. If you want to create an atmosphere, try pools of brighter light where guests are reading or working and other areas bathed in softer golden light.

    Artificial Plants

    One of the most effective and cost-efficient ways to revitalise areas is by the clever use of artificial plants and flowers. If you buy good quality ones, you will find it impossible to tell that they are ‘faux’!  Blend artificial plants amongst live plants and have a layer of moss added to the top of their soil to make them more realistic. Attractive pots that complement the interior design can make all the difference and a regular dust is all the maintenance they will need!

    A huge artificial plant arrangement makes a stunning focus to a room and some of the artificial seasonal plants can be replaced through the year with other seasonal plants and flowers. Wall displays of artificial trailing ivy can look very effective behind sofas and ‘plant walls’ are an eye-catching and effective way to divide a large room into smaller, cosier sitting areas. Plant walls comprise of multi-panels with a variety of different artificial plants. There can be hanging plants and ones with variegated foliage in a variety of natural tones. It does take a little time to create the right effect, but the feature will be much admired by your hotel guests.

    chalet cyclamen handmade pot in hotel room Redecorate your hotel

    Don’t Forget the Other Spaces!

    The same ideas for rejuvenation can be rolled out across the hotel, with the introduction of artwork and artificial plants. Investigate colour schemes for the guest toilets and try adding large wicker baskets containing rolls of single-use cloth hand towels.

    Freshen up your guest rooms with new paint and some new art for the walls. Introduce a splash of bold and fashionable colours using cushions, throws and curtain ties

    An arrangement of artificial plants and interesting ornaments on a table, plus an arrangement of tactile cushions on the bed that all complement the colour scheme. This will help define the room’s character and create a feeling of luxurious cosiness.

    After all, making your guests feel welcome in your hotel and their stay a memorable one, is your main objective….

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    Sustainability in Building

    As we fight to improve our impact on the planet, environmental issues have never been more important. All industries are taking a long hard look at their business models and how they can make improvements in order to lessen their carbon footprint. 

    The building and construction industry is no exception.

    What is a Sustainable Building?

    By its very nature, the building and construction industry is a big drain on natural resources. 

    According to The World Green Building Council, buildings and construction are responsible for 39% of global energy-related carbon emissions. 

    So, the aim of sustainable building is to carry out activities without depleting natural resources and reducing the industry’s impact on the environment

    How Can Construction and Building be Sustainable 

    So what can the industry do in order to build sustainably:

    1. Explore the refurbishment of existing buildings, reusing/recycling materials.
    2. Carefully deconstruct green buildings once they have come to the end of their use and reuse the materials in further constructions.
    3. Design with sustainability in mind, aiming for longterm energy efficiency and emission reduction. 
    4. Make considered choices on the construction of buildings, procuring green and responsibly-sourced materials and taking into consideration their transportation to site.
    5.  Ensure buildings are energy-efficient, using less water and creating minimal waste. 

    Examples of Sustainable Buildings Around the World

    Sustainable does not have to be boring. In fact, this is the perfect time for innovative thinking to really come into play. Here are some examples of sustainability that will drop jaws as well as carbon emission.

    Bosco Verticale (Milan, Italy)

    Fighting air pollution has never looked so awe-inspiringly beautiful. 

    Opening 2014, the Milan’s Bosco Verticale, or “vertical forest” comprises two 27-storey residential high-rises, planted with almost 900 trees and more than 2,000 shrubs and bushes. 

    Equipped with solar panels and greywater recycling, this extensive greenery provides residents with shade in the summer and filtered sunlight in the winter. As well as being aesthetically pleasing, the botanical life also provides cleaner air and reduced noise pollution.

    Bosco Verticale

    Bahrain World Trade Center (Manama, Bahrain)

    This unprecedented design, featuring 42-storey wind turbines, has won several awards.  Designed by the architect Atkins, it incorporates renewable energy into its large-scale building design. 

    Bahrain World Trade Center

    Nanyang Technological University, School of Art, Design and Media (Nanyang, Singapore)

    Completed in July 2006 and officially opening in April 2009, the university is regarded as a sophisticated icon in design.

    The spectacular sloped grass roofs of this four-storey building go beyond aesthetic. It not only doubles as a communal space but keeps the environmental temperature low, reducing heat in the day.

    Nanyang Technological University

    The building and construction industry is forever pushing innovative boundaries. Reaching for a way to reconnect with nature may inspire the industry to find a greater appreciation for the environment thus putting sustainability at the forefront of every design.

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    Guide to Exhibiting at a Trade Show

    Trade shows are an excellent way to demonstrate the value of your product or service. It’s a big investment in terms of time and cost so careful consideration must be taken when deciding whether you want to actually exhibit. But, once you have decided to go ahead, that’s when you need to come up with an effective strategy.

    Pre-Trade show 

    Finding the Right Show

    Beware – a trade show can be oversaturated. Maybe a show that is not specific to your product or service but where your brand is still relevant could work. For example, if you trade in the gift market then consider exhibiting at a literary trade show. Bookshops thrive on till-point add ons which may work perfectly with what you have to offer.

    Stand Design

    Like everything else, it is important to get organised as early as possible to allow for any last-minute changes so any contractors that you have hired are not forced to cut corners at the eleventh hour.

    Promotion and Appointments

    Make sure you are promoting your attendance well in advance. Brands often begin promoting for the following year straight after the current trade show has wrapped up. At the same time – to ensure that you make the most of the event – schedule all of your appointments. Not only does this help make your stand look in demand, it also ensures that you have the relevant visitors at your booth. Passersby notice these things!

    The Stand 

    Finishing Touches

    Exhibition halls can be vast and somewhat sterile. Why don’t you bring a bit of the outside in by adding artificial plants? They can be ordered in advance, unlike real flowers that would need to be ordered last minute to ensure freshness. Once you are finished, you can then place them in storage to be reused for the next show.

    Organise Seating

    Consider how long attendees have spent walking the trade show halls. When designing your stand, consider various seating options. This would be useful for meetings, to view the products and to encourage potential buyers to spend more time at your stand.

    Banners

    Brochures and leaflets can often make a space look cluttered and in this day and age of recycling don’t appear sustainable. A banner can promote your core message whilst also hiding any unsightly items from view.

    Giveaways

    Gratis promotional items will always draw attention, especially if you use bold colours. Think smart with your designs and use them to your advantage – these items will double as advertising for your brand.

    Trade show 

    Hands-on

    When it comes to your stand, try and have some interactive elements for any potential buyers. This encourages conversation and will lead to the lockdown of any potential new clients.

    Engage

    As well as having your pre-booked visitors, it’s always important to engage with new business. No need for the hard sell, something as simple as a greeting and an innovative demonstration will suffice. Don’t waste valuable time chatting with fellow stand members as you never know, you could miss that vital sale or important new lead. 

    Data Collection

    Following on from any interaction you’ll need to tie-up any data collection. So ensure you have allocated a space on your stand for a card bowl, laptop or clipboard so you can gather that all-important information. 

    Post Trade show 

    Follow-up After the Show

    Ensure you immediately follow up with any new leads. Collate further details and fulfil orders etc. Time is key, so don’t leave it so long to allow new contacts the opportunity to change their mind. Some businesses send blanket emails, but whatever you do the more personalised your approach the better. 

    The trade show experience that you choose to offer is a perfect moment to bring the creativity of your own brand to any potential customer.

    Don’t just turn up with a table and chair and hope for the best!

    Even if budgets are tight, do your research. There are a multitude of effective ways that you can promote your company without a hefty price tag attached. But if you don’t have the time and want a slick finish, hire an expert to take the pressure off your hands. 

    Our technicians at Floresy will provide you with all the assistance you need to install and implement our designs into your booth. They can show you the best methods for assembly, disassembly and reassembly, and will provide any further technical assistance you require.

    If you have any questions or would like to discuss your project in further details please contact us.

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    5 Interior Ideas for Autumn

    As we move away from those glorious summer days with their light airy breeze, we then shift into the crisp and warm tones of autumn.

    This reflective season is known for its earthy rich colours and is an exciting time to identify what emerging trends designers want us to see. These new ideas are hopefully reflected in the inspirations of Interior Designers and Architects everywhere.

    Here are some top tips to revamp your space in a bid to re-energize and rejuvenate the ambience of any potential project.

    Natural Fibres

    cain

    Credit @abbeylanghome and @bakerfurniture

    The timeless material of cane has been resurrected in the last few years. It is a strong and intricate natural fibre that has been derived from the rattan vine. Woven together, this durable item can create anything from sumptuous seating, headboards and outdoor furniture that can weather the seasons. Remember! Longevity is key with the use of materials these days and cane certainly meets the demand.

    Power of the Curve

    Credit: Covethouse

    There is something alluring about a curved sofa. With the right material and colour combination, it can change the dynamics of any space or potential project. With the ability to remove harsh angles with its seamless contour, this seating design has the dexterity to welcome anyone with open arms. Think calm, think zen.

    Statement Paper

    Credit: Murals Wallpaper 

    Who doesn’t love florals on a large scale? This is a great trend, but to fully cultivate the style the florals must be sizable and must pop. Mix strong contrasting colours to bring out the beauty in your blooms, compliment with bespoke pieces or individual reclaimed items. Look out for big patterns that have a Pre-Raphaelite style – you’ll find them on cushions, bedding, murals etc. Make the rest of the look simple so the florals themselves become the star and focal point. 

    Fringe

    Credit: BeauVamp

    Lighting is the perfect way to update a room all in one go. It’s a great way to give vintage chic a chance to impress and like many trends that have made their way back to the fore, this one has found its way back from the victorian era, but with a modern twist.

    Metallics

    Those who wish to do a makeover of their space will find copper the ideal material this autumn. Its warm orange hue is capable of giving a sophisticated and elegant air to any environment. This is a sure bet, especially with Nordic themes or rooms with an industrial style finish.

    Interior design, like any other art, is subject to change and allows us all to embrace new styles and trends that emerge throughout the seasons. This autumn isn’t any different and we’re looking forward to seeing your imagination run riot!