On Thursday 7th July, Velvet’s Area Manager Karen Giles and PR Co-ordinator Menna Pritchard enjoyed an afternoon at the Races.
They were kindly invited by Brighton’s best free weekly magazine - Latest Homes, in which Velvet has a design advice column (available on this website)
Once again, they were lucky enough to escape the all the rain and enjoyed blue skies, wonderful sunshine and great company!
They weren’t however, quite as lucky with their choice of horses.
Transvestite, which they thought could not lose at this particular track failed! But at 4.30pm the tables turned and betting each way brought them a little slice of success with Tuscan Treaty and Star Strider!
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I want to go for a French style look in my new flat but have a limited budget. What do you suggest?
Hannah Lewis, Patcham
Emma says: ‘Moving home is an expensive process so here at Velvet we understand that affordable furniture and accessories is a must! As long as you keep you colour scheme neutral, including your furniture, you can easily give your flat that French feel for well under £100 with our huge range of accessories. Why not invest in a Gallic style clock (£30 and under), perfume bottles (from £3.50) and photo frames (from £8) to start the look. Then if more money becomes available in the future you could buy a French style chair for extra seating in the lounge or bedroom (from £195). Visit our website or stores for more inspiration!’
I’m soon to renovate a new bar and I am looking for some outrageous furniture for it. Thing is I’m not sure where to start!
James Ketchley, Woodingdean
Nick says: ‘You have to come and see our Potenza chairs at our Furniture Showrooms on Bond Street and Church Road! They come in various size, colour and fabric options and whichever you choose – they really are showstoppers. Prices start at just £255. We also have a huge range of bar stools available to order. If you are looking for something in particular do give us a call or pay us a visit as we are able search through our thousands of product lines to find what you want.’
Tip of the week… use lettering on signs and cushions to lift the mood of any room
I’ve just started renting a beautiful mansion flat but it is in my agreement not to hang things on the wall. How can I make the most of all the space and the high ceilings?
Susie, Hove
Emma says: ‘It’s always worth asking your landlord/lady directly if you were to hang things professionally and that would be sympathetic to the building whether this would be allowed. However, if the answer is no then I would look at investing in some key pieces to fill the flat. As you have the space, think big! Big sofas, big wardrobes, lots of accessories – all these will fill your rooms and help them feel less cold. I would invest in some huge mirrors that you would be able to lean against your wall. We stock a beautiful range from £35 dressing table mirrors to huge 7ft ornate mirrors for just £350.’
I’m looking at buying a new sofa and really need something with a timeless design that will last for years to come. I’d much rather support a local independent business like yourselves and am wondering what you offer?
M. Jacobs, Hanover
Nick says: ‘It’s great that you want to support a local business! And in return we can offer you a great range of sofa’s at really accessible prices. Our most popular is the Milano range, which comes in a variety of colours and is made from hardwearing oak and leather. Its minimalistic design has that ‘timeless’ look you are after. Alternatively we offer a superb range of vintage leather designs that would look equally luxurious in modern and period homes. Shop online or pop into one of our stores to see more. (Milano 2 seater sofa £599 in Cream suede)’
Tip of the week… come and visit our new showroom for lots of inspiration!
If I had my way, my house would be full of brightly coloured Indian and ethnic pieces but my partner prefers neutral, subtle looks. We need to find a compromise – help!
Jane Nichols, Patcham
Emma says: ‘Well, one way to get both the looks you love is by allowing you to have your own ways in different rooms! Alternatively why not create rooms you will both be happy in by going for a neutral base with ethnic accents. We stock a beautiful range of Embossed Silver furniture and accessories which have a beautiful Moroccan feel to them but aren’t over the top. Accessories such as photo frames start from as little as £11.50 and you can pick up items of furniture for just £120. Why not buy online and have them delivered or come and visit one of our stores!’
We are about to move into a new build but want to create a country style kitchen. Any tips or guidelines?
Luke Morgan, Central Brighton
Nick says: ‘Having recently renovated my kitchen with a similar look I can highly recommend the beautiful Country Ash range that we can order in for you. This solid ash furniture has been designed with an emphasis on farmhouse style and is not only stylish but hardwearing and top quality. We are able to get hold of everything from chairs and shelving to sink units and dressers. Of course, creating a country style is all about the accessories and finishing touches as well! We stock a huge range of retro style wall signs, hooks and tins from as little as £3.50!’
Tip of the week… know your limits! Get an expert in if you are worried about doing work on your home.
I have a rather dark study in my basement and want to buy some pieces to help lighten it but I want something classy, and not white or cream! What do you suggest?
George Powell, Brighton
Nick says: ‘If natural light is limited, make sure you use plenty of artificial light, especially where you will be working or reading. For a classy look and practical light reflecting furniture, why not invest in some mirrored pieces. We have a great range from mirrors to console tables. Our Venetian 2 Door Cabinet £299 will not only reflect lots of light into your study but will also provide a great storage space for unsightly folders, paper work or books.’
I love black furniture but I’m afraid it’s not going to date well, should I invest or put my money elsewhere?
Emily Davis, Brighton
Emma says: ‘Well Emily, firstly you should buy what you love! Black furniture has been very on trend for the past couple of years but you’re right that no trends last forever. However this is no reason not to buy. I would just have a few pointers if you do. Look for pieces that have a timeless style, for example French Antique style pieces which never age. Team with striking wallpaper or modern accessories to keep the look fresh. Our Moulin Noir range is the definitive French Boudoir collection. It is hand carved and upholstered in black velvet. (Moulin Noir Bedside tables £195, Moulin Noir Bed £995).’
Tip of the week… If you have children or pets remember to buy practical AND gorgeous!
I just keep hearing and seeing more and more about adding pattern to my home but I’m not sure where to start?
Bethany Shaw, Hove
Emma says: ‘Pattern can add instant impact to a plain room so be brave! You don’t have to spend lots of money either. Even a colourful cushion (from £12.50) can make a difference. But if you want to really want to take the plunge don’t play it safe! Choose beautiful patterned wallpaper (£30 a roll) or a beautiful statement chair (from £225). If you’re worried why not try starting in the hallway… this way you don’t have to spend prolonged periods of time in the room, as you would with a bedroom or lounge, but it will create a real wow factor for guests coming into your home!’
We’re lucky enough to have a huge bathroom but I’m not sure what to do with the space?
Mr & Mrs Peters, Brighton
Nick says: ‘Bathrooms can be tricky to furnish as although they should be tranquil places for relaxing, they also need to be highly practical. I would suggest that the best pieces to invest in to fill your space would be storage units. We often lack storage in our homes so why not invest in extra for your bathroom. An armoire or French style display cabinet (from £495) would look ideal filled with quilts or fluffy towels. And why not add a dressing table for post-bath beautifying!’
Tip of the week… always check maximum wattage to save burning shades or blowing bulbs!
I have an antique ‘hand-me-down’ French chair but a very modern house, how can I enjoy it in its new home?
Elyse John, Brighton
Emma says: ‘One option is to have it re-upholstered in a modern fabric. This will allow it to blend perfectly into your modern home. Or rather than trying to make it fit in, why not give it pride of place and co-ordinate your accessories to complement it. Antique style Chandeliers are wonderful additions to modern homes. We also sell a huge range of Venetian glass furniture and mirrors that work perfectly with both old and new houses. And with prices starting from just £35, you are sure to find something that will help your ‘hand-me-down’ feel right at home.’
I love stripes and big floral designs but am worried about how I make them work together in the same room?
Richard Harrow, Kemp Town
Nick says: ‘People often think you cannot mix flowers and stripes but as long as you stick to the rules then they can work together perfectly. They real key is to keep the colours the same otherwise things may clash or look frumpy! If you use big stripes, use subtle floral prints and vice versa. We have a gorgeous collection of cushions, light shades and accessories in the same colour schemes that you can use for any room in your home. Prices start from just £18.’
Tip of the week…
Measure, measure, measure when buying furniture! The space in the room, the furniture itself and the access
My children have now left home and I want to give my lounge a more formal look, how can I achieve this?
Catherine Mae, Henfield
Emma says: ‘The best way to give any room a formal look is to arrange it symmetrically. To achieve this easily you need to arrange items in pairs. For example; a pair of side tables at either end of your sofa, with matching lamps on each. Frame four prints and hang over a fireplace, and arrange mirrors at the same heights. As well as arranging you room symmetrically, ensure you place furniture around a focal point whether that is a fireplace, window or coffee table. The look of the room is also hugely affected by those gorgeous finishing touches – coffee table books, matching cushions and fresh flowers!’
I’m happy with the way my room is decorated but I want to give it a warmer atmosphere, what can I do to get this effect?
James Clark, Brighton
Nick says: ‘Mood lighting is the easiest way to change the feel of a room. Although light serves a very practical purpose in a room, it can also really dress a room as well. Create layers and pools of light. To achieve this you need an overall light source, then build up different areas with bedside tables, wall lights and free standing lamps. For dressing tables you need a strong light, and likewise for areas where you will work or read.’
Tip of the week… stick with classics – you may tire of trends
I just bought a lovely lamp base but it didn’t include a shade. What are the rules regarding what sort of shape or size I should go for?
Kirsty Benn, Brighton
Emma says: ‘The most important thing to remember is that you need to keep it balanced. Chunky and ornate bases need a larger shade. Tall, narrow and delicate stands will carry a smaller shade. Choosing a shade that is one third the height of the base will give you a traditional look, where as if you go 50/50 it will have a more solid look. We stock a huge range of shades from just £20. Why not bring your lamp base with you and try them out!’
I’ve just moved into a larger house and now have the difficult task of filling it with more furniture. How do I make it work with my existing pieces?
Michelle Woods, Rottingdean
Nick says: ‘When investing in your new pieces, the most obvious option is to look for similar pieces – work with the existing materials and colours. Pick up on details like the shape of handles, arms and legs. You can always go for a more eclectic look as well with mix and match furniture. Using contrasting colours and new with old can really lift the theme of the room.’
Tip of the week…
Use rugs and furniture to divide large rooms into cosy zones
I’m in the process of redecorating my bathroom and am struggling finding interesting lighting. The theme is nautical and I want something that stands out!
Ellis Lloyd, Hove
Nick says: ‘Nautical inspired fashion and interiors are huge this year, but it is a timeless look for the bathroom, so it’s an excellent choice! Very often, lighting is a last thought when it comes to decorating the bathroom but it can transform the room. If you have the space I would invest in a chandelier. Our White Shell Chandelier at just £125 is the ideal candidate. It is perfectly shaped to bring that seaside feeling into your home.’
I recently acquired a Victorian terraced house and needed some pointers on what colour schemes to go with and some furniture that wouldn’t look out of place?
Navid Falatoori, Brighton
Emma says: ‘The Victorian era was a very decadent time for interiors from the 1830’s neo-classicism through to the sumptuous luxury of the mid-century. This, however, does not need to dictate the way you decorate. Definitely treat yourself to a chandelier to make the most of your high ceilings. By opting for white walls you can go for a very minimalist look with modern furniture. Alternatively, you can decorate in a way that is sympathetic to the buildings history and opt for decorative wallpapers (we have a huge variety at just £30 per roll) complemented by antique style furniture like our Chateau range.’
Tip of the week… Hang a set of hooks for easy-grab bags and dog leads. Use a second set for keys so they’re easy to find!
I’m ashamed of my green plastic garden furniture and want to update it! I need something long lasting but too expensive. What can you suggest?
Pat Elliot, Rottingdean
Emma says: “It’s possible to invest in a good set of garden furniture for well under £200. Choose a dining table and chairs that can be used as a set and individually. Painted metal furniture is on trend at the moment but it offers timeless, classic design that is also long lasting for you. Even better is furniture that you can fold away for when the winter creeps up on us again! We have lovely pieces in store at the moment and also available to order online, available from just £25.”
I’ve always had a 3 piece suite but unfortunately the armchair has died now. I’m thinking of buying some different chairs for the room, will this work?
John Atkinson, Lewes
Nick says: ‘Yes, John, it will definitely work! In fact I think mixing up pieces of furniture looks brilliant and is the perfect excuse to get the exact items of furniture you want. You can use cushions to coordinate the pieces. Add chairs in contrasting colours for a more modern feel or use the same colour scheme for a traditional look. For example, I think our French antique style Moulin Noir Chair (£225) would not out of place next to the luxurious Chesterfield Sofa (£995). Online and in store we offer an extensive range of chairs that you could mix and match with your current sofa.”
Tip of the week… when selling your house, use scented candles and ensure it is well lit to make it welcoming for viewings.
My flat has a tiny kitchen and no dining room but I’m not a fan of ‘tv dinners’ on the sofa, can you offer any help?
Christopher Nurse, Worthing
Nick says: “I think your best option would be to add a ‘dining area’ in your kitchen. You can either do this by adding a small bar table with matching stools or by constructing a breakfast bar - you could even have one that folds flat against the wall if you really have limited space. This will double as extra surface space when needed and while it’s tucked away, the bar stools can offer seating to any guests you may be cooking for! (Bar stools from £49)”
We don’t have much space in our guest bedroom but want to give it a really grand ‘French chic’ feel, what would be a good way to achieve this?
Mike and Louise Garrett, Hove
Emma says: ‘I suggest that you keep your colours light and neutral otherwise the room will feel small and quite oppressive. Go over the top with the furniture! Choose only essential pieces – bed, mirror, storage and lighting - with lots of decadent details. Our Valbonne range, with Louis XIV influences, is a perfect way to pick up on that French chic look you are aiming for. This beautiful collection would sit perfectly amongst unique antique finds from the excellent flea-markets and boot-fairs in Sussex. (Valbonne Toile Bed £650)’
Tip of the week… if you can’t afford to redecorate your room, why not rearrange it instead!
I’ve just moved into a wonderful Victorian flat with high ceilings, fireplaces and cornicing, but my taste is very modern. Any tips on making this work whilst being sympathetic to the building?
James via email, Hove
Nick says: ‘Combining old and new is very on trend at the moment and surprisingly easy. The best way to do this is to pick a colour theme and work old and new pieces around this. Make the most of your high ceilings with a big mirror above the fireplace. Our striking Cherub Mirror (£295) in black and silver will really sit well with those original features. Your furniture can then be ultra modern in black, white and silver.’
We just had a lovely conservatory added to our house. I want to use it as a summer dining area, can you suggest some good furniture that will work in this setting?
Rebecca O’Connell, Brighton
Emma says: ‘Our all time most popular items of furniture come from the Belgravia range. We can order in a whole selection of pieces for you; from chairs and tables, to chests of drawers and mirrors – and with prices starting from £30 it’s easy to see why it’s so popular. Remember to keep curtains or blinds light to make the most of the longer days that are gradually getting here! Use pretty boxes to hide away clutter, and bring the outside in – fill the room with flowers and potted plants.’
Tip of the week… If you rent and aren’t able to hang items on the walls, invest in lots of different frames to place on window sills, shelves and mantle pieces.
I know bold patterns and prints are really in fashion at the moment but I’m a bit reluctant to introduce them to my room. How can I do this without going ‘over-the-top’?
Emily Dean, Hove
Emma says: ‘Firstly remember your home should be a reflection of your personality, so never decorate in a way that you aren’t comfortable with. Always chose items, colours and patterns that you love. As you are nervous about introducing pattern to the room, I would suggest that you start small – cushions, vases, and light shades for example. As you grow with confidence you could also introduce a feature item of furniture. Be sure to stick with a colour scheme – its fine to use different patterns but stick with a few complementary colours as this will prevent the room looking too busy. A subtle way to add a burst of pattern and colour to a wall is to frame some beautiful prints – you could even use wrapping paper that you love!’
I’m so bored with my kitchen, but can’t afford a new one. What can I do to change the look?
John Allen, Marina
Nick says: ‘Well John, the most effective way for you to transform your kitchen would be to paint your kitchen cupboard doors. You can buy special paint for this - prepare as per their instructions. It’s a lengthy process but will make you feel like you have a brand new kitchen at the end of it! Keep the walls and cupboards light to make the room feel larger. Remember to update the doorknobs as well. De-clutter the surfaces, leaving only the essentials and a choice selection of accessories such as bread, tea and coffee tins. Ensure the kitchen is well lit. Fresh flowers or a bowl of fruit will add colour and fragrance to the room.
Tip of the week… before decorating create a mood board to explore colours, patterns and textures that you love.
My daughter has ‘out grown’ her girlie pink room but shares it with her younger sister, any suggestions of things we can add to make it more grown-up for her?
Kate Donn, Church Road
Emma says: “There are many small things you can change, and at a low cost, to make the room suitable for your eldest daughter whilst keeping it suitable for her younger sister. Why not replace the light-fitting to a more sophisticated shade or even a small chandelier (from £49), replacing her bed linen and adding a sumptuous quilt and cushions. Dressing tables are always perfect for girls but if you don’t have the space then a tailors dummy (£65) or jewellery stand (from £6.95) would be a lovely way for her to show off her trinkets.”
Can I give my sitting room a face lift for under £100?
Andrew Brown, Kemp Town
Nick says: ‘Yes - And very easily! I would go as far to say that you could totally transform it for under £100. The most expensive things to replace in a living room are the furniture and flooring so work with what you’ve got. For a big change why not paint the walls a complementary colour - this can easily be done for under £50. For well under £100 you could decorate a feature wall or chimney breast with luxury wallpaper. If you don’t have the time for a big job then new cushions and lightshades will create a new feel in your room. We stock a huge range from only £20.’
Tip of the week… choose curtains that frame a beautiful view rather than distract from it
It’s that time of year when my house needs a big spring clean and re-decorating. What are the key trends for Spring/Summer 2008?
Clare Rogers, Palmeira Avenue
Nick says: “Bold statements whether in colour, shape or pattern continue to go from strength to strength and this can be picked up in your accessories especially. However there are more and more statement pieces of furniture becoming available, at accessible prices. For example our striking Potenza chairs (£399). Decorating your home to keep up with trends can be costly and time-consuming so my advice would be to choose furniture that has a ‘timeless’ look. Mix old and new pieces to create a modern look – for example Tulip or Panton chairs (£95) around a chateau style dining table (£595).”
I’m really excited about moving in with my boyfriend, but we have such different tastes in interior design. How can we make our flat feel like home for both of us?
Sarah Peters, Saltdean
Emma says: ‘As we all know, relationships are about compromise – and that begins with your home. But there are ways to make it work for both of you. Stick with a neutral palette for walls, floors and doors – and let your personalities show through accessories. That way neither of you will feel overwhelmed by the other’s style. If you can’t even agree on the neutral colours why not divide up the rooms – one of you can decorate the bedroom, the other takes the kitchen, and so on. That way you can both express your tastes – and it’s bound to give your guests plenty to talk about when they visit!’
Tip of the week… use a statement mirror or painting to create a focal point in a room lacking one
How can I make my basement bedroom look bigger and brighter?
Bryony Beynon, Preston Park
Emma says: ‘Well Bryony, the first place to start is the walls. Keep them pattern free and choose a cream or white paint from a warm colour range – otherwise the room will feel cold. Then invest in a couple of mirrors. Why not try one of the mirrors from our Venetian range (prices from £70). Hang one opposite the window to bounce light around the room, and use the other to reflect the doorway, which will instantly make the room seem much bigger. Another trick is to use mirrored furniture, such as our Venetian Cabinet (£275), which gives the illusion of taking up less space in the room.’
Since I re-decorated my kitchen our old chest of drawers is looking a bit tired. How can I update it?
Ralph Simmons, Portslade
Nick says: ‘The quickest way to give furniture a face lift is with a lick of paint. If your style is traditional choose a colour that complements your kitchen. For a more modern look choose a contrasting colour that will turn your chest into a statement piece of furniture. Then replace the drawer handles. We have wonderful glass, acrylic, or ceramic ones (from just £3). For an eclectic look why not try using a selection of different handles on the same piece of furniture.’
Tip of the week… White spirit easily removes the sticky residue left from stickers on mirrored and glass products
To ask Nick or Emma a question email: info@velvetstore.co.uk
