Urban Sales Journal
Urban Sales Journal
Discover captivating room ideas that will transform your living spaces into stunning havens of style and comfort. Explore innovative designs, unique color schemes, and inspiring decor accents to create your dream room.
Trend Alert: Rattan Furniture
Rattan furniture has been around for centuries, and it is making a major comeback in the world of home décor. Rattan furniture is the epitome of island life. It's like a piña colada in furniture form - breezy, relaxed, and full of tropical charm. If you're looking for a stylish and eco-friendly way to furnish your home, rattan furniture might be just what you need. In this blog post, we'll explore what rattan furniture is, the main questions surrounding rattan furniture, and how to incorporate it into your home. What Is Rattan Furniture? Rattan furniture is a type of furniture made from rattan, which is a natural material derived from the stems of rattan palms. Rattan is a strong, flexible and durable material that is popular for use in furniture making, especially for outdoor and casual indoor furniture. It is also eco-friendly and sustainable since rattan palms grow quickly and are abundant in many tropical regions of the world. Rattan furniture can be found in a wide range of styles, from traditional to modern, and is often used for chairs, tables, sofas, and other pieces of indoor and outdoor furniture. What’s the Difference Between Rattan & Other Materials? Rattan is like the superhero of sustainable furniture, with its fast-growing vines and ability to be harvested without harming the environment. Rattan is a type of palm that grows in tropical regions of the world, such as Southeast Asia and Africa. Rattan can grow up to hundreds of feet long, making it one of the most flexible and durable natural materials available. Rattan and wicker are often used interchangeably to describe furniture made from natural materials, but they are not the same thing. Rattan is a natural material that comes from the stems of a palm plant that grows in tropical regions. Wicker, on the other hand, refers to the weaving process used to create furniture from a variety of materials, including rattan, bamboo, willow, and other natural fibers. So basically, the main difference between rattan and wicker is that rattan is a material, while wicker is a technique. Rattan is a particularly popular material for wicker furniture because of its flexibility and durability. Rattan can be easily bent and shaped into various forms, making it ideal for creating intricate woven patterns. Other natural materials, such as bamboo or willow, can also be used to create wicker furniture, but they may not be as durable or as flexible as rattan. Is Rattan Furniture Sustainable? If you’re looking for beautiful, yet sustainable pieces to add to your home, then rattan furniture is the way to go! Let’s dive into some reasons why: Rattan furniture is a renewable resource It is a renewable resource and is harvested from forests where it grows abundantly. Unlike other types of wood, rattan can grow up to hundreds of feet long, making it one of the most flexible and durable natural materials available. Lower carbon footprint than other materials Rattan furniture is lightweight and easy to transport, which reduces carbon emissions during shipping. Unlike other materials, such as wood or plastic, rattan does not require the use of harmful chemicals or processes to create furniture. Additionally, rattan furniture is often produced by hand, using traditional techniques that don't require a lot of energy or machinery. Low maintenance Cleaning your rattan furniture is a piece of cake - no need to fret about special treatments or complicated routines. Simply wipe it down with a damp cloth and some mild soap, and voila! It'll be looking as good as new. Cleaning made easy! It’s durability means it lasts longer Finally, the durability of rattan furniture means that it can last for many years, reducing the need for frequent replacements. This makes rattan furniture a sustainable and long-lasting choice for your home. Did you know: Our brand BohoBoho features rattan furniture that is beautifully paired with solid wood, making it more durable, sustainable, pieces of furniture that will last you a life time! Outside vs Inside: Rattan furniture is a versatile option for both indoor and outdoor spaces, adding a touch of natural elegance and comfort to any area. Inside, rattan chairs, tables, and other pieces can add warmth and texture to living rooms, bedrooms, and even dining areas. Natural rattan complements a range of decor styles, from coastal to bohemian, and can be paired with cushions and throws for added comfort. Outside, rattan furniture can transform your patio, deck, or garden into a stylish and inviting space. Synthetic rattan options are designed to withstand the elements and require little maintenance, making them a practical choice for outdoor areas. BohoBoho loves natural rattan, and we're proud to say that our products are made using sustainably sourced natural rattan from Indonesia. How to incorporate Rattan Furniture in your home: There are many ways to incorporate rattan furniture into your home décor. To soften the natural look of rattan furniture, add some cushions and throws in fun patterns and textures. Mix and match rattan furniture with other materials and styles for an electric and unique look. You can even use rattan baskets and trays to add a touch of natural texture to your shelves and tables. Experiment with different types of lighting, such as woven rattan pendant lights or table lamps, to add warmth and texture to your decor. And sometimes, keeping it simple with a single statement piece, such as a rattan chair or pendant light, is all you need to add some natural texture and warmth to a space. Rattan furniture can be used in almost any room in the house, from the bedroom to the patio, and it always brings a touch of warmth and natural beauty to your space.
Spring Decorating Ideas
Spring is upon us! As we embrace the changing seasons in New Zealand and eagerly anticipate the warmth of summer, the time has come to prepare our living spaces for sunnier days and a brighter atmosphere. As we all know - New Zealand isn't the most consistent when it comes to what’s happening outside. While the weather may still have a hint of chill, it’s not the time to get our outdoor furniture out yet! But it's the perfect opportunity to start preparing your home with the spirit of the coming season. After all, a well-designed living space isn't just about aesthetics; it's about creating an environment that uplifts our spirits, enhances our well-being, and celebrates the new season! In this blog we will discuss how you can perfect your home styling this New Zealand spring! We’ll tick off the things you can do first to really help this process if you are starting from scratch or just need a refresh- looking at what you have right now, and how this resonates with your personal design style. With the help of your vision boards, inspo pinterest boards & more- we’ll dive into how to decorate your home for spring on a budget, and what are the spring styling colours of the moment! Things to Tick Off the List First: 1. What do you have right now? Start by assessing your current home decor and furniture. This step will help you understand what elements you can work with, what needs to be updated or replaced, and what aligns with your design style! 2. Know your design style Now you know what you have and what you need- it’s time to pinpoint what your style is. Doing this will ensure that your decor aligns with your styling preferences and ensure you love everything you add to your home! It streamlines decision-making, saves time, and keeps your budget in check. Here’s some ways to help you figure out your interior design style: Look at what you have right now: You’ve already assessed what you already have, so take what you have at home and see styles are prevalent in your home right now Gather inspiration: Start by collecting images from magazines, social media, blogs, websites whatever works best for you Take Style Quizzes: Style quizzes are fun, and can really help you identify your style. They ask questions about your preferences in colours, patterns, furniture, and decor- helping do the work for you! 3. Create a vision board Creating a vision board is an essential step for your spring home styling styling process- offering a visual guide to achieve your design goals. Popular methods include a physical poster board, a digital version on platforms like Canva, a Pinterest board, or using apps and notes. Choose the method that suits your strengths and will be the most fun for you! How to create the most on point vision board: Once you know how you are going to create your vision board, follow these simple steps to create your perfect vision board! Incorporate What You Have: Take what you already have in and add these items into your vision board (you want to get the whole picture, no just the new stuff) Clarify Your Theme: Think about the theme or focus of your vision board. Is it for a specific room, like the living room, or for your entire home? You can link back here to what you think your interior design style is from the research you did earlier! Gather Inspiration: Start by collecting images from online, magazines, catalogues, or printed images that feature design elements, colours, and decor items you like. Select Images: Flip through your collected materials and cut out images, colours, patterns, and text that match your vision. Look for pictures of furniture, decor items, paint colours, and anything else that relates to your design goals. Arrange and Paste: Begin arranging the cut-out images and elements on your board. Experiment with different layouts and compositions until you achieve a pleasing arrangement. Once you're satisfied, glue or tape the items in place. Add Text and Labels: If you have specific design elements in mind or want to describe your vision, you can add labels, captions, or text to the images. Decorate and add final touches: Add the finishing touches- make it more personal with some stickers or your favourite shows, movies, books that have a great influence on you! Take Action: Use your vision board as a reference while shopping for decor items, choosing paint colours, or arranging furniture. It will guide your decisions and help you bring your design ideas to life. How to Decorate Your Home for Spring on a Budget Looking for how to decorate your home for spring on a budget? Here are some creative ideas to spruce up your space without breaking the bank: Change the layout of your home: Redesign your space using your existing furniture and decor to create a fresh look without spending extra money. Declutter and Rearrange: Before adding new decor, take some time to declutter and rearrange your existing furniture and decorations. Sometimes, simply repositioning your belongings can breathe new life into a space Spring Cleaning: A thorough spring cleaning can make a significant difference in the look and feel of your home. Clean windows, dust, vacuum, and scrub surfaces to create a fresh and inviting atmosphere! Repurpose What You Have: Get creative with items you already own. For example, old glass jars can become vases, and vintage crates can serve as shelves or display units. Pillow Refresh: Updating your sofa or bed's appearance without breaking the bank is a breeze. Just swap those cosy winter throw pillows for vibrant spring options! Bring nature inside: Use elements like pebbles, seashells, and driftwood for decor. These items are often readily available in nature and can be a cost-free option. DIY: Whether it's crafting floral arrangements, upcycling old furniture, or creating your own artwork, this is a perfect way to personalise your spring decor while staying within your budget. Best Spring Decoration Colours Colour in interior design shapes the mood and atmosphere of a room, impacting emotions and perception. Consider both your design concept and personal preferences when choosing colours, as the right palette significantly affects well-being and comfort in your home. Get ready to freshen up your home this spring with a vibrant burst of colours and a mix of bold, lively palettes. Embrace the season by incorporating warm greens, sunshine yellows, fiery orange-reds, and subtly peachy pinks into your decor. Add a touch of elegance with neutral spring shades like ivory, cream, and camel, alongside clearer, richer browns. Light pastel hues in pink, green, blue, and sunny yellow will infuse your space with a sense of renewed energy. Don't be afraid to mix and match these colours and finishes, creating a playful and dynamic atmosphere. For a touch of earthiness, incorporate soothing brown, beige, and terracotta tones, or experiment with an eclectic blend of orange, green, pink, and blue. This spring, it's all about embracing the joy of colour and infusing your home with a fresh and invigorating vibe. 8 Things to Decorate Your Space With for Spring 1. Vases Vases are a versatile and essential element of home decor. They can be used in various ways to enhance the aesthetics of your space! 2. Plants Plants and fruits are not only delightful additions to your home decor, but they also bring a touch of nature indoors! 3. Wall Decor From quirky collections of vintage vinyl records to a mesmerising gallery of travel postcards, your wall art can be a playful reflection of your unique passions and adventures. 4. Mirrors Mirrors are the magical multitaskers of home decor, effortlessly amplifying light, creating an illusion of space, and adding a touch of glamour with their reflective charm. 5. Rugs, Bedding & Curtains Rugs, bedding, and curtains are the unsung heroes of interior design, transforming your space with colour, texture, and cosiness. Whether it's a plush rug underfoot, sumptuous bedding that promises sweet dreams, or curtains that frame your windows with style, these elements weave comfort and character into your home. 6. Pillows & Throws Pillows and throws are your decor's fashion accessories, adding colour, texture, and comfort to your space with style and flair. 7. Indoor Lighting Indoor lighting is especially vital in spring, as it accentuates the fresh, lively ambiance of the season, creating a welcoming atmosphere for longer, sunlit evenings and highlighting the vibrant colours of springtime.
Our Flood Relief Efforts [Infographic]
The past months brought heart-wrenching tragedy to many in New Zealand as heavy rainfall unleashed devastating floods, leaving behind extensive damage. Rebuilding the community will be a long term task, and we want to do our part to help support the recovery effort. Thus, Our Flood Relief Mission campaign was born, driven by a mission to make a meaningful impact. During the campaign, we committed to donating up to $10,000 to Auckland City Mission, a trusted charity devoted to assisting those in need. With each order, we proudly pledged to contribute 1% of the sale to support Auckland City Mission's flood relief initiatives. Our aim was clear: to help rebuild homes and bring hope back to the community. Additionally, we extended a helping hand to those directly affected by the floods. We offered a 15% discount on our furniture products, striving to create a welcoming atmosphere and restore a sense of comfort to their homes. "When the floods hit, it struck us deeply seeing our neighbours and customers facing losses that went beyond the material. This was never about furniture - it's about helping restore the comfort and security that truly make a house a home. Our belief at Urban Sales is that home is the most cherished place in the world. We're committed to our vision to make homes better and happier, and it's in challenging times like these that this mission gains even more significance. I'm grateful to our customers, our team, and to Auckland City Mission for standing with us, as we extend our hands and hearts to the community we love. Thank you for enabling us to give back in a truly meaningful way" - Said Urban Sales CEO Donated $10,000 to Auckland City Mission We've done it! Together, we raised an incredible $10,000 for the Auckland City Mission's Flood Relief Efforts. We're proud to have been able to make a contribution towards rebuilding homes and supporting families affected by the recent floods in Auckland. We couldn’t have done it without the support of our 2,486 customers who made this possible. Auckland City Mission has supported local Kiwis for over 100 years, by providing a range of services for both short and long-term needs. In support of Auckland City Mission in their Flood Relief Efforts, our donation has gone towards the following: Food - If you don’t have enough kai for yourself and your family and need a food parcel Homelessness - If you are concerned about someone sleeping rough Housing - If you need their support with housing If you're curious about how your donation made a difference, you can learn more about the Auckland City Mission's flood response and the inspiring stories that have emerged from our collective efforts by visiting this link. Our 15% Flood Relief Discount For the past few months, we have been supporting those in need, extending a helping hand through our Flood Relief Discount. The devastating floods that swept through Auckland/Tāmaki Makaurau left a profound impact on communities, and we were determined to do our part in easing the burden during these challenging times. It fills us with pride to have provided support through our 15% off discount, reaching out to those directly affected by the floods. We have received requests for assistance from individuals across New Zealand, from Greenbay to Albany, Pukekohe to Greenlane, Glenbush to Mount Eden, Ranui to Epsom. Our customers have shared stories of personal loss, ranging from essential items like beds, drawers, and kitchen appliances to beloved possessions such as desks, electronics, toys, and cherished children's books. We want to thank all 2,486 customers who made it possible for Urban Sales to take part in contributing to the flood relief efforts for Kiwis. There is still a long way to go, and Urban Sales wishes to continue to support the community in any way we can.
