It’s National Relaxation Day on 15th August – so isn’t that the perfect excuse to create a cosy corner in your home, dedicated to unwinding and chilling? Choosing the right refurbished furniture pieces can create the comfortable and unique space you’re after. Start off with a comfortable armchair or loveseat (keep reading if you’re working with a small space!) – and then consider the following five pieces:
1. Side table
A side table is vital for holding your relaxation essentials within arm’s reach. It can hold your favourite book, a cup of tea, or a vintage lamp to create the perfect ambiance.
Characteristics to look out for:
- Sturdy, solid wood: ensure the table is stable and well-built, able to last decades.
- Calming colours: look for soft, calming colours like soft blue, pastel green, or natural wood finishes that reflect nature and promote relaxation.
- Functionality and features: consider side tables with drawers or shelves for additional storage, and carvings or unique knobs to add character to your space.
2. Plant stand
Plants can bring calmness to any space. A refurbished plant stand can literally elevate your greenery, adding interest and clearing floor space.
Characteristics to look out for:
- Height: choose a plant stand that’s the right height for your plants – too tall and it may dwarf the space.
- Durability: look for stands made from durable materials like wood or metal, with finishes that complement your room’s décor, and make sure the finish is water resistant.
- Aesthetic interest: look for unique designs such as mosaic tiles, carvings, or bold colours that reflect the uniqueness of your personality!
3. Bookshelf
A bookshelf not only holds your favourite books but also adds structure to your cosy corner. It's perfect for displaying photos, candles, and sentimental trinkets.
Characteristics to look out for:
- Durability: ensure the bookshelf is solid wood, sturdy, and well-constructed to support the weight of your books and items.
- The right fit: find a piece that fits into your space, whether it’s a tall, narrow unit or a shorter, wider one. If you’re working with a small space, you might choose a mini bookshelf like the one pictured below.
- Finishes: look for bookshelves with interesting finishes like distressed paint (if you’re into the shabby chic look!) or natural wood. You could add black panels or patterned wallpaper, if it suits your space.
4. Footstool
A footstool complements a cosy armchair, giving you a place to rest your feet. It’s a small addition but can make a big difference to your comfort.
Characteristics to look out for:
- Functionality: choose an upholstered footstool with padding for maximum comfort when resting your feet. For smaller spaces (including corners!) choose a smaller footstool which can be tucked underneath your chair when not in use. For larger spaces, you could opt for an ottoman for blanket storage and doubling up as additional seating if required.
- Good quality upholstery: look for high-quality, durable, easy-to-clean fabric.
- Matching aesthetics: consider footstools that match other pieces in your cosy corner (such as painted or natural legs) if it’s not possible to match it to your chair.
5. Chic or vintage wooden chair
If you have the space for additional seating (or you don’t have the space for an armchair or loveseat), you can’t go wrong with a chic or vintage wooden chair (depending on your taste).
Characteristics to look out for:
- Comfort: look for an upholstered chair with good cushioning and support. If it’s your main/only seat in the cosy corner, ensure it’s comfortable for long periods of sitting – consider chairs with and without arms.
- Matching aesthetics: choose a design that complements your room’s aesthetic, whether it’s modern or vintage, painted or natural wood, floral or block colour fabric.
- Durability: ensure the chair is well-made with quality materials and sturdy construction; I'd always recommend choosing a solid wood piece. Consider chairs with reupholstered seats and backrests in plush fabrics (think chenille) for added luxury.
Depending on the size of your space, you may not squeeze in every item on this list – but choose what’s important to you. The most important thing is allowing yourself a space to feel relaxed, even if it’s the corner of your bedroom or living room. National Relaxation Day is a reminder that we should always make space for our mental health (even if it’s just a little space).
Feel free to reach out if you need design ideas or if you're looking to get a piece refurbished.
Comments