If Girls Have More Testosterone Will They Build Muscle Quicker
For women, the role of testosterone in the body is not always clear. Here is some basic information that every woman should know about this mighty hormone... and why it's not just for the boys.
What is testosterone?
Testosterone is a steroid hormone that belongs to a class of hormones called androgens. It is produced mostly in the testes of men and the ovaries of women, although small amounts are produced in the adrenal glands as well. Testosterone is best known for its anabolic effects, like building muscle and tissues, helping with protein synthesis, and increasing bone density. Testosterone also has androgenic effects that we often associate with male secondary sex characteristics, i.e. deepening of the voice, development of facial and body hair, and changes in facial bone contours.
Why is testosterone important for women?
For both men and women, testosterone plays a key role in the development and maintenance of muscle mass, strength, energy levels, and bone density. For women in particular, the maintenance of bone density and muscle mass is important, as both of these tend to deteriorate with age. Testosterone may also offer females some more subtle effects, like impacting mood and (here's the big one) sexual desire. That's right…the big "T" is linked to the big "O" for women as well as men.
What are signs of low testosterone for women?
Women with low testosterone (low T) may experience decreased libido and persistent fatigue. For athletes in particular, muscle weakness is another frequent complaint. Because testosterone is a hormone, symptoms of deficiency resemble symptoms of depression and other mood disorders. In fact, certain experts argue that misdiagnosis and lack of treatment are common for these reasons.
Exercise less (if you're exercising too much). For both men and women, overtraining — the type often seen in endurance sports like distance running — can actually decrease your testosterone. Take time to rest if you need it!
Exercise more (if you're not exercising). While endurance training may be associated with decreased testosterone levels, research indicates that acute endurance training and resistance training can actually increase your circulating androgens – including testosterone.
Move some weight. Take a break from the treadmill and hit the weights instead. In addition to increasing androgen levels, resistance training comes with a ton of other amazing benefits for women, including stronger bones (reducing your risk of developing osteoporosis) and weight loss. It's recommend that women resistance train two to three times a week.
Have more sex. There is a correlation between testosterone levels and sexual activity for women. While it is believed that individuals with higher testosterone levels tend have higher libidos, some research indicates that it is the sex itself that may be increasing women's testosterone. Several studies showed that sexual arousal leads to small increases in plasma testosterone levels for women.
Eat more zinc. Zinc is powerful little mineral, which blocks the enzyme that converts testosterone to estrogen. More zinc = less converted estrogen = higher testosterone. Good sources of zinc include oysters (hence their reputed aphrodisiac abilities) and other seafood, pumpkin seeds, red meat (especially beef and lamb), and spinach.
Eat more magnesium. Magnesium is also believed to increase your testosterone by inhibiting testosterone from binding to its binding protein, sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG). As a result, you have more free testosterone (the biologically active type of T) floating around in your blood. Great sources of magnesium include: fish, beans, nuts, and leafy green vegetables.
What are signs of high testosterone for women?
Between 4% and 7% of women produce too much testosterone in their ovaries. Some of these women have a pattern of symptoms called Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, or PCOS. This diagnosis is important for women, as PCOS can lead to infertility and other problems. Another possible effect of high T in women is excessive hair growth in unwanted areas, known as hirsutism. (Yes, there's a scientific name for those pesky chin hairs you have to pluck.) Other signs include: acne, excessive perspiration, frontal balding, and deepening of the voice.
What to do if your testosterone is too high
If your testosterone is high, you should talk to you doctor. Your doctor will likely check your testosterone levels and refer you to an endocrinologist, a doctor who specializes in hormone levels and glandular functions. Certain factors, like smoking, obesity, and PCOS, are also associated with high testosterone
Summary
The role of testosterone in the female physiology continues to be studied by scientists and researchers. There are still many questions you may have. For example: does getting your upper lip threaded or being moody from time to time mean your testosterone is out of whack? Probably not, but there's only one way to find out! InsideTracker's Ultimate Plan lets you test a wide range of blood biomarkers plus important ratios, including free and total testosterone, SHBG, and cortisol, and gives you individualized reccomendations based on your age, gender, ethnicity, activity levels, and goals.
Some other blog posts we think you'll love:
Tired of Being Tired: How I Optimized My Iron Levels
Getting Back on Track: Laura Ingalls' InsideTracker-Fueled Journey Back to Holistic Health
Avoiding The Crash: How Monitoring Iron Levels Can Save Your Season
Stress Fractures: The Relationship Between Biochemistry, Nutritional Screening and Biomechanics
A comfortable and cosy bedroom is key to making guests feel welcome. With households in England now allowed up to six overnight guests as part of lockdown easing, many of us are prepping for long-awaited sleepovers once again.
Guest bedrooms might be used only occasionally, but you can quickly create a sense of calmness by layering colours, textures, cushions, quilts, throws and lamps. Need some guest bedroom decorating ideas? Take a look at what you can do below...
1. Opt for calming colours
To create a more restful atmosphere, fill your guest room with soft and soothing colours. "Nothing says relaxation more than cool colours, subtle patterns and tranquil tones," Lucy Ackroyd, Head of Design at Christy, says.
You'll want to give visitors that five-star feel, so don't forget to layer up with cosy cushions, textured throws, fresh clean towels, and a calming candle or two. To accessorise the bed like a pro, Lucy advises to opt for two pillows on each side of the bed, making sure to "fluff them up"before sitting them on top of the duvet.
"For a guest bedroom I'd choose a neutral base and add touches of your personality and style through artwork, soft furnishings and accessories," Emma Valerio, Partner & Home Design Stylist at John Lewis tells CL. "This way you can mix up your scheme as and when you want to."
Cosy accessories to buy now
Country Living Wool Herringbone Throw
Cotton Mix Woven Monochrome Stripe Throw
marksandspencer.com
£29.50
Country Living Linen Pom Pom Cushion
Soft Shaggy Rug
marksandspencer.com
£39.50
2. Choose the right bed and mattress
Country Living. Styling Ben Kendrick and Alaina Binks. Photography by Brent Darby.
A comfortable mattress plays a fundamental role when it comes to planning a guest bedroom. From pull-out sofa beds to larger king-size styles, choose a bed that will enable guests to sleep soundly in most positions.
"A good quality mattress should support the whole body and allow you to drift off to sleep feeling relaxed and comfortable," Jonathan Warren, director at bed specialist Time4Sleep, advises. "When choosing a mattress for your guest bedroom, opt for a medium firmness such as a pocket sprung mattress which holds a number of individual springs inside that move independently and therefore provides better support based on an individual's sleeping position."
3. Create a luxurious grown-up space
Country Living. Photography by Penny Wincer. Styling and production Ben Kendrick.
Guest bedrooms often get overlooked, with many used as dumping grounds for piles of washing and old toys. If you're looking to truly spoil your guests, don't be afraid to create a grown-up space that oozes charm and style. Play around with vibrant colours (think navy blue, forest green and daring red), hotel-style furnishings and touchable textures.
"Most of us desire our guest room to be a comforting, hotel-style oasis for visitors, to give us the reassurance of knowing friends and family feel welcome and rested in our home," Helen Shaw, UK Director at Benjamin Moore, adds. "Pared back sage greens or sky blues are great for conjuring a connection to the outdoors, which will encourage a feeling of calm for your guest."
4. Clear the clutter
Get your clean on and give the space a good declutter. From the bedroom to the bathroom, it's the little details that will make guests feel at home. According to a study conducted by Sanctuary Bathrooms, 45% of Brits would think less of someone if they had an untidy bathroom, while 1 in 3 people admitted to snooping around people's homes when visiting.
"At a basic level, ensure you give your bathroom a thorough clean before guests arrive and store away anything you don't want people to see," Richard Roberts, Director of Sanctuary Bathrooms, says.
"A neat trick to reassure guests about hygiene, and avoid risk of germs, is to provide separate miniature or refillable soaps and hand gels, as well as different coloured or patterned fresh towels, so that the guest ones are different to the main household users."
Brilliant guest bedroom storage ideas
John Lewis & Partners White Pattern Seagrass Basket
johnjohnlewis.com
£25.00
Country Living Wooden Letter Holder - Grey
Gunner Set of 3 Extra Large Metal Storage Trunks, Tonal Blue
Compactor Zebra Storage Basket, Black / Natural, Large
johnjohnlewis.com
£15.00
5. Make guests feel welcome
Make guests feel instantly relaxed by paying attention to thoughtful details. Items such as toothpaste, soap, shower gel and a hair dryer are great to pop in a little basket for visitors to use. It's a simple way to make them feel right at home, while also providing them with ease in case they have forgotten anything. For that ultimate five-star feel, leave welcome flowers on the bed or a stack of magazines for them to flick through.
hollandandbarrett.com
Ethique Pinkalicious Shampoo Bar For Normal Hair 110g
hollandandbarrett.com
£12.99
CL recommends... Opt for shampoo bars or refillable bottles instead of plastic miniatures to reduce unnecessary waste.
6. Spruce up the space with plants
Houseplants — whether cacti or a giant Swish Cheese — will always brighten up a tired-looking corner. The ultimate finishing touch, no guest room is complete without them. And, if you're lacking a few green fingers, propping up some artificial plants is never a bad idea.
"Plants always make a wonderful finishing touch, but if you're worried about the maintenance then go for an artificial plant or a bunch of flowers," Emma tells us.
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This one is for all the pizza lovers out there! You no longer have to wait till you go to the pizzeria to get a fix of your favorite Italian food. Get yourself snuggled in with the Pepperoni Pizza Bed Set for some delicious, pizza filled dreams.
Check it out
Description
This one is for all the pizza lovers out there! You no longer have to wait till you go to the pizzeria to get a fix of your favorite food. Get yourself snuggled in with the Pepperoni Pizza Bed Set for some amazing pizza filled dreams.
The Pepperoni Pizza Bed Set is covered from end to end in warm, crusty, oven baked dough, soft, gooey mozzarella cheese and bright red, thinly sliced pepperoni that would make your mouth water. Okay, it's not really covered in all that but the vivid pepperoni pizza printed on the cloth is enough to make you want to lick your bed covers. You pretty much expect grease to start dripping off the corners of the bed and steam to rise from the pillows.
Please note that this bed set is meant for the real pizza lovers out there, because only them and no one else would be able to stand being wrapped sheets depicting their favorite food, every night. The bed set consists of one duvet cover and two pillow cases. Made from microfiber polyester, the material provides a soft texture against your skin, and is lighter and more durable than cotton. The pizza print on the material is also high quality and clear and will maintain its pattern and clarity for a long time and through several laundry cycles without running.
One thing you should note is that this bed set only consists of covers for the duvet and does not include any comforter or duvet filling. So, you will need to have your own duvet at home which this will serve as a cover for. Using it with your duvet is as simple as unzipping the cover, arranging your duvet inside, and zipping it back up once it's arranged well. The sizes are as follows:
1StopBedrooms is an online retailer that offers an impressive selection of furniture. The company covers bedroom, living room, kitchen, game room, office, and outdoor furniture, plus a ton of accessories.
1StopBedrooms carries a wide range of brands. This online retailer is favored for a vast selection of styles, plus the extra services it offers (such as in-home assembly, for example).
Is 1StopBedrooms Legit?
1StopBedroom is not such a loud name on the furniture market (at least among such giants as IKEA or Wayfair). That's why new customers often wonder: is 1StopBedrooms a good company?
The answer is yes. 1StopBedrooms is a reliable retailer that has thousands of reviews and a good reputation. Therefore, even if it's your first time, 1StopBedrooms is safe to buy from.
1StopBedrooms Furniture Quality
Guys at 1StopBedrooms pay special attention to the quality of the furniture they sell. Additionally, the company works only with reputable brands that also show high levels of quality control. Thanks to the exceptional quality of their furniture (and affordable prices, in most cases), the 1StopBedrooms company has managed to win over countless shoppers.
1StopBedrooms Customer Reviews & Ratings
1StopBedrooms furniture retailer has over 7,500 reviews on TrustPilot. The company's rating is 4.6 stars.
There are also plenty of consumer reports on the company's official website (more than 38,000). The 1StopBedrooms' rating is 5 stars.
There were also a bit more than 700 Google reviews available at the time of writing this 1StopBedrooms furniture review. The company is favored for the furniture quality, attractive prices, and customer-friendly policies.
One of the strongest suits of 1StopBedrooms is customer service. The company's representatives are experienced and know their way around furniture. Additionally, they are polite, helpful, and extremely professional.
It's also worth mentioning that 1StopBedrooms sells an impressive variety of items. This means there's a suitable furniture piece and style for virtually any shopper.
CHECK WHAT OTHER PEOPLE HAVE TO SAY
1StopBedrooms Beds
1StopBedrooms offers a wide selection of beds covering all standard sizes and various styles. You can find metal, wooden, leather, and upholstered models. So, there's likely to be a bed that would easily work with your bedroom interior.
There are also plenty of 1StopBedrooms' beds that come with a headboard and a footboard. This can be a good option for shoppers seeking great value for money.
It's also worth saying that 1StopBedrooms' can boast of quality and reliable performance regardless of the price segment.
Check Prices for Beds at 1StopBedrooms
1StopBedrooms Sofas
The Sofas segment on the company's website includes more than 2,000 models. Prices start at $144. The company offers both classic and contemporary designs. 1StopBedrooms' sofas come in a variety of colors and sizes, so there's more than enough to choose from.
Another cool thing is that the company is likely to help you set up your new sofa. Plus, most of their models are very comfortable, which is ideal for lounging in the living room – "The men that delivered it are very nice and unwrapped the furniture and put the sections where I wanted them. The sofa is more comfortable than my bed is and I have chosen to sleep on it often instead of the bed."
Check Prices for Sofas at 1StopBedrooms
1StopBedrooms Living Room Sets
Among the living room sets, you can find both smaller "kits" (such as a lounge chair plus an ottoman) and all-in-one sets (for instance, sofas + chairs + coffee tables).
Prices start at $310 for lounge chair + ottoman sets.
The delivery may take a bit more time for bulkier items, but it's a great way to get all that you need in one shopping session. Additionally, 1StopBedrooms often offers discounts on their living room sets. Therefore, buying multiple items at once may also help you save some money.
Check Prices for Living Room Sets at 1StopBedrooms
1StopBedrooms BedRoom Sets
In the Bedroom Sets category, you can find an impressive selection of items. There are bed frames, nightstands, dressers, mirrors, drawer chests, bed benches, vanities, media stands, and more.
The best part is, you can find almost any combination of bedroom furniture in different styles. Therefore, there's a suitable option for pretty much any shopper. The company also offers the "Build Your Own Set" service, using which you can pick a selection of any items you require and buy them as a set.
For the bedroom sets, prices start at $330. All furniture pieces can boast of high quality and are covered by the 1StopBedrooms' 30-day return policy.
Check Prices for BedRoom Sets at 1StopBedrooms
1StopBedrooms Shipping Time
1StopBedrooms offers free domestic shipping with most of its products. Plenty of items classify for a free White-Glove delivery. It includes delivery to the room of your choice, set-up, and debris removal.
Depending on the destination, 1StopBedrooms usually takes around 1-3 business days to deliver (for smaller items). The transit time for large items typically takes around 2-4 weeks.
To handle large furniture pieces, 1StopBedrooms chooses among the large parcel carriers who can handle furniture delivery (to make sure your order arrives in perfect condition).
When placing your order, you can pick a suitable delivery time. Keep in mind that you might have to pay for missed delivery appointments. The price is usually $0.75 per pound.
1StopBedrooms Return Policy
The company offers the furniture with a 30-day return window. It starts on the day you get your order delivered. If you are unhappy about the item you've purchased from 1StopBedrooms (or it has arrived damaged), you can return it for a full refund.
You will need to pay for return shipping, however. There's also a restocking fee (15% of the item's original price). The item also has to be in its original packaging. You cannot return the furniture that has already been assembled. Items marked "Special Order" and "Final Sale" are not eligible for returns.
1StopBedrooms Prices
Bedroom Sets start at $332. There are many items in the Special Price section that come with a good discount. The most expensive bedroom set on the 1StopBedrooms' website costs $6,300 (and is currently on sale at the time of writing this 1StopBedrooms furniture review).
Living Room Sets start at $100 for an ottoman + nesting table combo. Among the lounge chair + ottoman sets, the cheapest one is $310. The most expensive item in the Living Room Sets category is the 4-piece leather set. It costs $17,557.
Dining Sets start at $181. The priciest one is the elegant metallic set (4 chairs + one dining table) that costs a little over $11,800.
Beds start at $137 for Twin, $196 for Queen, and $213 for King.
Sofas start at $144. Reclining sofas start at $616.
Chairs start at $91. The most expensive option on the website is the Zero-Gravity massage chair that is sold for $7,500.
1StopBedrooms Discounts & Coupon Codes
1StopBedrooms offers coupon codes for discounts based on the total of one's order. For instance, with the coupon code "SAVE50", you can get $50 off on every purchase over $1,499.
There are also coupon codes from some of the manufacturers the company works with.
You can check the list of available coupons on the 1StopBedrooms' website – www.1stopbedrooms.com/coupon-code.
Additionally, the company has numerous items on sale and in the Special Price category. Therefore, when browsing through 1StopBedrooms furniture, you will be likely to find plenty of good deals.
There are also regular seasonal and holiday sales.
Verdict: Is 1StopBedrooms Worth It?
After scanning countless 1StopBedroom furniture reviews and doing research about the company, I believe it's safe to say that 1StopBedrooms is worth buying from. You get a lot of options and a great price to quality ratio, which is quite rare for the modern market.
Pros
an impressive selection of items that can cover most of your needs (for both indoor and outdoor furniture and accessories);
free delivery on most of the products, in-home or White Glove with an assembly;
quality furniture, promises durability in use;
refundable warranties;
different budget segments to satisfy a wider range of shoppers;
exceptional customer service;
30-day return window.
Cons
some delivery issues are possible (although this might be the responsibility of the shipping companies, not 1StopBedrooms);
taxes are not included in the price on the company's website, which might be a surprise for some shoppers.
Check Special Offers at 1StopBedrooms
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is 1StopBedrooms located?
The 1StopBedrooms headquarters are located in Brooklyn, NY.
How can I cancel the order from 1StopBedrooms?
To cancel your order, you need to contact 1StopBedrooms through one of the following channels:
Phone 877-958-9203 (toll-free)
Contact Us form on the company's website
You can cancel your order from 1StopBedrooms without paying any fees within the first 24 hours after placing the order.
Orders canceled after 24 hours are usually subjected to a 15% restocking fee.
Who makes 1StopBedrooms furniture?
The company works with a wide range of furniture manufacturers from all across the country.
Is 1StopBedrooms safe to order from?
Yes. 1StopBedrooms is a well-established brand that has thousands of positive reviews and is safe to order from. Plus, 1StopBedrooms' furniture comes with a 30-day return window to ensure better customer protection.
If you are looking for home furnishings, check out our reviews of other popular furniture brands:
Wayfair
Lulu & Georgia
Ruggable
Joybird
Yogibo
Hi, I'm a furniture consultant with the industry expertise. I worked with the most prominent furniture and home goods retailers in the US and had a chance to see this industry from the inside. My 8+ years of experience in furniture production management made it clear for me how crucial it is to know what stores and manufacturers you can or cannot trust.
This is page 1 of 1 (This thread has 22 messages.)
To be considering making our living room our bedroom?
(22 Posts)
SnufflebabeFri 03-Aug-12 14:38:02
Dd is nearly 2. Our very small house, with zero storage, is bursting at the seams. Dd bedroom is a small room, only accessible through our v small bedroom.
The location of the house is overly convenient for us. GPs, who look after DD while OH and I both work live 2 mins away, we have a large garden, and her potential nursery is 2 mins away. The street is safe, neighbours are lovely, and we have a little oasis, tucked away in a huge bustling city.
OH and I both would like more children. However, the house as it stands, is putting the stoppers on any plans.
The house is very old, not listed, but terraced. Extensions may be possible, but would be limited size wise.
I am seriously considering the option of a sofa bed in our living room, so our bedroom can be used a big child's room.
Would I be crazy?! Is it a stupid thing to do? My thoughts are that we would NEVER be able to afford a big property with a garden in this area, and I just couldn't put a price on having the outdoor space. My DD spends so much of her time out there, rain or shine. Life is so convenient just now, so why move miles away for a big house with garden, but away from the 'easyness' this house offers, albeit, compact?!
Olympia2012Fri 03-Aug-12 14:40:56
I did this in my housing association house. When housing officer found out she was horrified. I was moved veryvery quickly as sleeping in a room which had a gas appliance in was very risky. Also, if a room with a boiler leads off from it, that wasn't 'allowed' either
Be careful
medievalgirlFri 03-Aug-12 14:41:13
If it works for you and your OH, why not? It's not as though you can't change your minds again later on.
JumpingThroughHoopsFri 03-Aug-12 14:46:54
can you extend into the loft space?
curiousgeorgieFri 03-Aug-12 14:47:00
Obviously, having a sofa bed in your living room would sort out where you sleep... But what about clothes / toiletries / books etc?
And do you always go to bed at the same time as your DH? I'm a bad sleeper and stay up late, whereas DH goes to bed early, would this be possible if your bedroom was your reception space?
Could you not move slightly further out for more space and travel slightly to work / for childcare?
MrsKeithRichardsFri 03-Aug-12 14:47:00
I know people who do this through necessity and the manage!
LRDtheFeministDragonFri 03-Aug-12 14:47:21
The people who lived in our flat before us did that - they had their bed in what's our livingroom/kitchen and the baby in the other room. I imagine it could get you down, but where's the harm trying it? Why not give it a go right now, see if it drives you nuts the first night/week, then go from there?
JarethTheGoblinKingFri 03-Aug-12 14:47:25
Well, if it suits you then go for it.
Get a decent bed though. Sofa beds are the work of satan.
Any chance of a loft conversion?
LRDtheFeministDragonFri 03-Aug-12 14:49:58
Some sofa beds are quite good! I've slept on ones that are great and ones that are awful.
The good ones are probably quite pricey though.
YamaFri 03-Aug-12 14:53:56
To me, it sounds like the pros outweigh the cons. Garden and being near work are my two biggies when it comes to having a home with small children.
Obviously you'd need to move before the kids are teenagers but that's years away.
oscarwildeFri 03-Aug-12 14:54:46
Personally I wouldn't but as *medievalgirl" says, you can always change it back. I think you would go mad in fairly short order if you couldn't close the door on your bedroom and had to pack up a bed and all the associated nightstand clutter every morning/before visitors/toddler demolition teams. Your house sounds perfect in every way apart from the size. Millions live in tiny apartments all over the world and manage. You could put in a wall of Ikea storage that might take a ton of stuff. Declutter, declutter, declutter. Rent a storage unit for seasonal clothing and stuff you need to hang onto or put in a decent brick garden office/shed that is well insulated if the garden is big enough. Look into an attic conversion. Buy a bunk bed for your child with a wardrobe and drawers underneath.
HipHopSkipJumpomousFri 03-Aug-12 14:56:15
We had a really fantastic sofa bed with 8" innersprung matteress, very solidly built etc. Really comfy to sleep on - didn't hold up too well with the sexing though
minipieFri 03-Aug-12 15:00:17
Why not? But I'd turn it into a bedroom properly, not with a sofabed - you don't want to be folding up your bed every day surely?
Then turn your bedroom into a small living room which DD can use as a playroom in the day and you can use as a TV snug in the evenings.
TanteRoggeFri 03-Aug-12 15:05:17
I have folded my bed/futon up every day for the past 20 years - not gone mad yet <twitch>
You just get used to it - you will need to sort out storage though
PaiviasoFri 03-Aug-12 15:33:17
Sounds like a good idea to me.
MissFaversamFri 03-Aug-12 15:34:34
I have no choice but to do this as in a housing association 1 bed flat and have given my DS the bedroom.
It's not ideal but very do-able.
dreams of one day having a bedroom
AmbivalenceFri 03-Aug-12 15:37:36
yes, seems very sensible indeed. i always think my bedroom is wasted space,
I saw this at the ideal homeshow - think they are about £5K - cheaper than moving house though!
liftbed.co.uk/
PetsinmyolympicpudendaFri 03-Aug-12 15:38:29
We are just bout to do this in our HA flat. Its two bed and there are 4 of us (2 adult,2 kids,10 and nearly 2) but the second room can only get a single bed in it so we cant move into it or have the boys share.
Our wardrobe and drawers will go in the bedroom with the toddler but we brought a really good proper sofabed for the front room.
Needs must
darthsilliusFri 03-Aug-12 15:40:04
My dhs family did this for 20 yrs. 3 boys in a 2 bed flat. His friends still do it, their kids are late teens now. Its definitely do-able
forevergreekFri 03-Aug-12 16:28:11
I wouldn't hesitate to do but think in your case you could try other solutions as sounds like poss space is available
I would use 2 year olds bedroom just for her sleeping and then add floor to ceiling storage in that space that's left.
Then how big is your room? I would push you bed up to wall to save space then add floor to ceiling storage here also
2 year olds toys can be stored in either bedroom and played with either in your bedroom if space or lounge or garden
I think storage is key here. Storage under beds, floor to ceiling, cull crap etc..
( we have 1 bed place and storage has meant every space is used. Also all clutter is hidden in storage so place seems bigger)
HecateHarshPantsFri 03-Aug-12 16:43:01
Can't you convert the loft space?
HecateHarshPantsFri 03-Aug-12 16:44:12
Or have the two children in bunk beds in your small bedroom and you and your husband in a bed in what is currently her room? That way would be better as they get older anyway, rather than have them go through your room to get to theirs. iysim.
This is page 1 of 1 (This thread has 22 messages.)
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I'm so excited to share my California Cool interior design ideas with you today, and doubly excited that the trend is finally taking Australia by storm. How do I know this? Well, because I have clients asking me to execute this look in their home. That's always a surefire sign that a particular style is gaining momentum.
Actually, I should point out that the clients who have come to me wanting this look don't usually know that their style is California Cool at first. They come to me, as a client did this week, declaring themselves a bit coastal, a bit Scandi, a bit boho and a bit Mid-Century. And often they don't know which style they should adopt.
Here's the good news: you can adopt all four. Because that's what California Cool is in a nutshell; a glorious blend of coastal, bohemian and Mid-Century design – with a little Scandi thrown in for good measure! It's the coming together of so many awesome interior design styles, and it really allows for a lot of freedom in your style choices.
I've been in the thick of doing a lot of contemporary luxe and Hamptons styles in homes of late, so I'm really looking forward to rocking more of this design in properties across the country in the months to come.
These California cool interior design ideas might have you realising that you too, are indeed, a lover of this style. So scroll on through as we examine imagery from across the web, along with my tips on pulling off Cali cool design at your place.
I'll see you in the comments at the end of the post.
via beach pretty
Cali Cool Mixes Four Popular Design Styles
As I already mentioned above, what makes California Cool interior design so amazing is that it's a blend of four popular design styles that you already know and love. They are, in no particular order:
The organic, rustic vibe of Coastal
The laidback eclectic nature of Bohemian
The muted, airy and minimalistic feel of Scandinavian
And the vintage, character-packed style of Mid-Century
What makes California Cool even better is that you can control what dosage of the four design styles mentioned above you want in your space. And because there are so many different design influences at play, it really creates an interior that feels unique to you. Have a look at the rooms in this post and you'll be able to find the four styles above reflected in the spaces, I promise!
It's also really important to ensure you have the Mid-Century influences at play here. So many people will understand that blend of boho and coastal (it's so popular at the moment). But Cali Cool is not that. It's the Mid-Century pieces that really make it interesting and give the rooms a sense of story.
You'll Love the Subdued Colour Palette
The California Cool interior design ideas you'll see reflected in the images here are all quite neutral in colour. That's not to say the spaces are boring by any means, but they definitely steer clear of bold colour statements.
White does the bulk of the heavy lifting when it comes to colour. And you know how it is with white; there are at least a thousand different shades of it. So get mixing all of those together and make sure you introduce other neutrals like cream, beige and soft grey into the mix too.
It's not an all-white affair though. You'll notice that brown and warm orange tones are present as well. They tend to be represented through materials like leather and timber though, rather than hanging a loudly coloured artwork on the wall.
Black is also showcased, but in rather small doses. Overall Cali Cool is a very warm scheme, cooled down only by the occasional pop of green in indoor plants, or very muted blue accents in accessories.
The room below is the perfect example of the kinds of blue accents you can bring in to create a sense of balance between warm and cool.
There's a Wonderful Medley of Textures
Because the colours are so neutral, the rooms that rock California Cool design really amp up the texture. The spaces not only celebrate a medley of different materials, but there's a great balance of hard and soft at play too.
Harder materials like timber, leather and ceramics sit alongside softer ones like wool, linen and velvet. What's also so fantastic about the textures is the way they're showcased. A chair, for example, can feature a wonderfully coarse woven rattan detail on the back and seat section, with curved gloss timber arms.
This isn't simply a neutral scheme with layers and layers of material. It's more of a celebration of texture and how it can be applied to a room in interesting ways.
The bench seat at the end of the bed in the image below, for example, is a nice illustration of my point; it's not a stock standard straight-edge piece of furniture. It has a hand-crafted feel to it. The dining chairs in the post are much the same.
both images above via emily henderson
The Style Feels Curated Over Time
I love the idea behind California Cool interiors; that the rooms look (and usually are) built over time. It's not a brand new feel. Rather, it's a story that develops over the course of years, really allowing you to put your own stamp on it and celebrate your keepsakes and memories.
There's absolutely a vintage story to be told here. Have a look through the images in this post and you'll see that a lot of the rooms have furniture that looks one-of-a-kind. They have art that looks like it was collected on travels overseas. And there are decor pieces that look like they've been picked up at a market or second-hand store.
It's this coming together of new design and pre-loved design that makes Cali Cool so full of depth and interest. And for those of you who have collected trinkets and treasures on travels, there are so many ways to work them into the mix.
via emily henderson
Not a fan of second hand furniture?
Don't worry. It's not absolutely essential that you pack in a flea market find. It's just important to understand that there is a quirk at play in the rooms. It's not all from the latest furniture store catalogue.
Homes that are full of purely brand new things always lack a bit of character, a bit of a story. Even when I work with design clients I'll do my best to include some things they already have and showcase their mementoes or family photos.
So, at the very least, go through some of your packed-away keepsakes and have a think about how you could work them into your room. There's also a craftiness to some of the art pieces, so if you're creative in that respect you could make a wall hanging or something similar for your walls.
The wall hanging in the image below is all sorts of magic, don't you think?
via emily henderson
Imperfection and Quirk is Celebrated
California Cool interior design loves weird stuff. It adores a furniture piece that isn't perfect. And it loves a bit of a WTF moment in art and decor.
You could proudly display a hand-me-down rocking chair in a living room. You could embrace a tapestry or odd 3D object over your headboard. Or you could even have mis-matched lamps on your bedside table. The magic comes from embracing odd moments. Don't be afraid to have a bit of a play.
It's not just the pieces themselves that give rules the finger. It's also the layout and configuration of spaces. They abandon the notion of formality and symmetry. Things at different heights are fine. Objects not centred on walls are encouraged. Sofa and armchairs don't have to be placed in a configuration that makes sense. The relaxed look is essential.
via beach pretty
The Style is So Accessible Locally
There are so many stores that stock pieces that perfectly reflect the California Cool interior design ideas you're looking at in this post. It's just that so many of them won't stock everything you need to pull off this vibe.
West Elm and Brosa, for example, are the go-to stores for all of that Mic-Century stuff. Norsu Interiors and RJ Living have a lot of the simple but chic Scandi gems. OZ Design does great coastal furniture and decor. And then brands like Uniqwa and La Casa Vita stock the bohemian goods.
Honestly, I never advocate getting everything from the one store anyway. The Cali Cool style is a look that evolves over time so do a little furniture and decor grazing at a number of stores and build the look up as you go. And as already mentioned, hit the markets or pick up something special from a boutique during a road trip adventure. California Cool is all about the eclectic.
I've got a mood board for you below that has some great California Cool design finds for you to shop.
Shop the California Cool Mood Board
I've hand-selected a few of my fave California Cool interior design ideas from local suppliers so you can get a bit of this style at your place. All the links for the products you see are listed below. Time to 'add to cart'!
My top bargain buy is the divine bedside table above from BIG W (it's only $49!). But there are loads of goodies to explore, so I hope you see something you love. Starting from top left and moving across:
Ariana Framed Print Artwork | Wood and Ceramic Table Lamp | Arrow Cushion | Oat Cushion | Mud Cushion | Brass Tabletop Planters | Olympic Rings Coat Hanger | Rattan Bedside Table | Tribal Pattern Rug | Ethan Queen Size Bed | Aleah Printed Pasta Bowl | Fabric Wall Hanging | Solum Brass and Black Side Table | Mara Throw | Modern Lucas Armchair | Brown and Orange Petal Pot | Cream Striped Basket
Hopefully you found some great ideas above from the Cali Cool mood board. This style really does afford you the ability to mix and match a lot of different style finds.
via lindye galloway studio
What do you make of Cali Cool Design?
I know so many of you are probably already rocking that blend of coastal and boho at home. It's such a popular trend at the moment. Hopefully this post has inspired you to take that vibe and introduce a little more age and character. Bringing in the Mid-Century pieces also gives it a bit more depth and story, so I'm confident you'll be able to make this look work at your place.
I'd love to hear your thoughts on this design style in the comments below.
23 Responses
California Cool is just what I was looking for, a little coastal, a little Scandi and a little Boho. The only thing I would add is a bit more colour in cushions and artwork and a couple of rustic timber furniture pieces. Thanks for sharing, Chris.
Love it Chris! this is exactly the style I've been trying to achieve in our reno. I'm pleased you've put a name it it – I felt like the style was such a jumble in my head and I was trying to mix too much so this is awesome advice above. Lisa
I love the style but I'd like to see more colour.
I've finally found my style! Thanks Chris
This is 100% my style, and I've never been able to explain it because it's such a mix of things! I am so excited to have some guidelines on how to implement it in my new home when it's finished! THANK YOU! x
So glad I could help!
Just love this style I'm a bit fan of Emily Henderson and amber Lewis and lately Leanne Ford. My beach house fits this brief perfectly. Thanks for featuring this. Love your posts!
Love this style! I feel like its so hard to express what your style is when its a mesh of things! In my head, my perfect home would be a mix of rustic coastal, south-west boho and contemporary luxe. Great article 🙂
Always look forward to your articles! So informative and resourceful . Thank you
Thanks for educating me on the style I love Chris. Who knew? My partner and I love the coastal / scandi look but have always had big love for mid century and thought we needed to choose. I shall now start bookmarking all things California Cool for inspo! 😉
Love this style! Love your posts! Any suggestions for Kitchens and bathrooms in this style?
Love this style! Any suggestions for a bar cart? I have struggled to find one. I have at home coastal and boho ( also industrial ( not too much Just 1 thing). I do not want to have too much boho and coastal.
A marketplace like Temple & Webster is a good place to start if you're not sure of the style you want to get.
THANK YOU thank you thank you for this post on California Cool style and decor. I've been searching online for a few weeks trying to figure out how I wanted to redecorate my bedroom and this pulls all of the elements I'm attracted to together beautifully. This is the only thing I've found online that hit the nail on the head.
Hey Dominic, I'm so glad! Hope your bedroom comes together nicely.
Lovin' this style. We have a mid-century home with lots of orange-tone built-ins (plus a orange tiled bar with the mandatory mirror behind it. This is a good way to show me how to tone this colour down.
I am obsessed with the Dream Home Makeover show! Love Studio McGee and all they do! Now I just need to get my home to look like theirs, in 10th of the space 🙂 Those American have huge homes! x Lou
LOVE. IT. Finally my style has a name! I love elements of all the styles you mentioned but feel that all of one style is just not me. I am going to be referring to this post for my future interior choices. Thank you x
I love this style, in fact I have incorporated some of it in my home without knowing that's what it was, but mine is a little more modern industrial/scandi. I love all the different textures and color pallet! Great post, thanks for sharing these beautiful images, cheers x
Thanks Helen, glad you love it!
Chris, I so agree – reading your "Cali Cool" article is my "aha" moment. I love all four of those styles and largely have the pieces that fit it. Now I can really enjoy putting it all together thoughtfully in my new Coastal home. Thank you for your inspiration
Love this article! Thank you so much for helping me learn how to blend all my favorite styles. Is there any chance you have information on where to purchase the dining room rug?
What a fabulous article Chris. California Cool has such a warm vibe incorporating elements of timber, natural coastal , lots of texture and soothing on the eye . I feel this style is so suited to our Australian life style. The four design elements combine so beautifully . I think I am on track with coastal, neutral, layered textures whilst still keeping some treasured pieces . Love your work and beautiful design styling.
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23 Responses
California Cool is just what I was looking for, a little coastal, a little Scandi and a little Boho. The only thing I would add is a bit more colour in cushions and artwork and a couple of rustic timber furniture pieces. Thanks for sharing, Chris.
Love it Chris! this is exactly the style I've been trying to achieve in our reno. I'm pleased you've put a name it it – I felt like the style was such a jumble in my head and I was trying to mix too much so this is awesome advice above. Lisa
I love the style but I'd like to see more colour.
I've finally found my style! Thanks Chris
This is 100% my style, and I've never been able to explain it because it's such a mix of things! I am so excited to have some guidelines on how to implement it in my new home when it's finished! THANK YOU! x
So glad I could help!
Just love this style I'm a bit fan of Emily Henderson and amber Lewis and lately Leanne Ford.
My beach house fits this brief perfectly. Thanks for featuring this. Love your posts!
Love this style! I feel like its so hard to express what your style is when its a mesh of things! In my head, my perfect home would be a mix of rustic coastal, south-west boho and contemporary luxe. Great article 🙂
Always look forward to your articles! So informative and resourceful . Thank you
Thanks for educating me on the style I love Chris.
Who knew?
My partner and I love the coastal / scandi look but have always had big love for mid century and thought we needed to choose.
I shall now start bookmarking all things California Cool for inspo! 😉
Love this style! Love your posts! Any suggestions for Kitchens and bathrooms in this style?
Love this style! Any suggestions for a bar cart? I have struggled to find one. I have at home coastal and boho ( also industrial ( not too much Just 1 thing). I do not want to have too much boho and coastal.
A marketplace like Temple & Webster is a good place to start if you're not sure of the style you want to get.
THANK YOU thank you thank you for this post on California Cool style and decor. I've been searching online for a few weeks trying to figure out how I wanted to redecorate my bedroom and this pulls all of the elements I'm attracted to together beautifully. This is the only thing I've found online that hit the nail on the head.
Hey Dominic, I'm so glad! Hope your bedroom comes together nicely.
Lovin' this style. We have a mid-century home with lots of orange-tone built-ins (plus a orange tiled bar with the mandatory mirror behind it. This is a good way to show me how to tone this colour down.
I am obsessed with the Dream Home Makeover show! Love Studio McGee and all they do! Now I just need to get my home to look like theirs, in 10th of the space 🙂 Those American have huge homes! x Lou
LOVE. IT. Finally my style has a name! I love elements of all the styles you mentioned but feel that all of one style is just not me. I am going to be referring to this post for my future interior choices. Thank you x
I love this style, in fact I have incorporated some of it in my home without knowing that's what it was, but mine is a little more modern industrial/scandi. I love all the different textures and color pallet!
Great post, thanks for sharing these beautiful images, cheers x
Thanks Helen, glad you love it!
Chris, I so agree – reading your "Cali Cool" article is my "aha" moment. I love all four of those styles and largely have the pieces that fit it. Now I can really enjoy putting it all together thoughtfully in my new Coastal home. Thank you for your inspiration
Love this article! Thank you so much for helping me learn how to blend all my favorite styles. Is there any chance you have information on where to purchase the dining room rug?
What a fabulous article Chris. California Cool has such a warm vibe incorporating elements of timber, natural coastal , lots of texture and soothing on the eye . I feel this style is so suited to our Australian life style. The four design elements combine so beautifully . I think I am on track with coastal, neutral, layered textures whilst still keeping some treasured pieces . Love your work and beautiful design styling.
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