Top 5 Design Trends for the Millennial Generation

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#tan boon liat, architecture, Art, centrepiece furnishing, custom made sofa, expats mama, expats school, expats school Singapore, home, lifestyle, luxury sofa, sassymama, singapore, sofa, USA

 By Travis Nagle

Millennials are probably fed up by now with the number of think pieces on the internet that are essentially clickbait pieces designed to start online comment wars between the generations. While there’s always a great debate to be had, this time we actually wanted to highlight the trends that millennials are driving when it comes to interior design.

The best part is that people of all ages can use these ideas to improve their interior spaces and their lives. If you’re curious about what those trends are, you’ll be surprised to learn that they probably aren’t all that different from your own thoughts about modern design. So without further ado, here are the top 5 design trends for the millennial generation.

1. Personalization

Millennials want companies that pay attention to their specific needs. For them, one size does not fit all. Customized interiors are important to the members of this generation who are trying to carve out their own identities and spaces in the world. Part of this requirement means having customized furniture and home décor that features your personal tastes on even the smallest level.

Millennials are also not afraid of combining decorating styles in order to achieve personalization of their spaces. In the millennial home, you’ll find everything from vintage to modern. Having a space that reflects your unique preferences and interests also becomes the perfect place to entertain, sleep or work.

2. Authentic Brands

You may have already noticed this trend as millennials demand more honesty and transparency from the companies that they purchase goods and services from. Millennials want to know about a company’s commitment to the environment and social issues, as well as, and the impacts of their purchases from that company on their health.

In fact, millennials have high expectations of businesses when it comes to social responsibility efforts. They want to make the world a better place for their own fulfillment, as well as, that of the broader society. They are also quick to dump brands that are only out for profits.

In the furniture world, this has translated to a push for more authentic brands that truly offer a better approach to design. Millennials want great designs and may even be willing to pay more for it in some instances.

However, even if they do buy more expensive furniture, this doesn’t mean that they will accept being overcharged for items that are more sizzle than steak just because the company donates a percentage of its revenues to saving homeless kitties. Millennials want to buy from brands who truly stand behind their products and deliver meaningful value.

3. Flexibility

When the cost of rent gets too high or new opportunities beckon in another location, millennials have no problem with packing up and moving some place else. In fact, with companies like Airbnb, they are also more inclined than previous generations to share their living spaces.

As a result, millennials want flexible designs that allow them to take their furniture anywhere or rearrange their homes periodically as they see fit. For them, changing things up shouldn’t mean buying all new interior items for their homes. Flexibility also means that the designs they choose can go with almost anything, which is one of the reasons why modern design is so highly prized among millennials.

4. Functionality

With smaller urban living spaces, functionality is an important design feature for millennials. Unlike previous generations where home and the office were two separate entities, millennials are more likely to work from home and they need a space that will allow for that.

As a result, millennials prefer multi-functional designs that mean that they don’t only have to buy furniture for one specific purpose at a time. An accent table should serve as a coffee table when guests are over. The bed or even the sofa arm could have storage for all of those little odds and ends.

Functionality is also important for organization. With multi-functional furniture items, millennials can stay organized while enjoying the minimalist designs that are so popular in modern homes.

5. Light and Small

The final trend that is again inspired by urban dwellers, is light and small designs. Millennials love designs that are very light and small that maximize their impact in smaller spaces. In fact, light and small items can feature unusual shapes or bold colors that instantly attract attention. Additionally, these items are preferred for the flexibility that they offer when it comes times to move or redecorate.

Get other design trends and tips. www.centrepiece.com.sg or emai: info@centrepiece.com.sg 

 

 

 

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Soft Sofa vs Firm Sofa

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#tan boon liat, Art, botanic garden singapore, bukit timah, courts, custom made sofa, expat living, expats australia school, Gucci, home and decor, home styling, ikea, scandinavian designs, singapore sofa, tatler, upholstery

Don’t underestimate the importance of a sofa – it is the crown jewel of the living room. We spend hours on it chatting to guests, napping on it after a long day and watching our favourite television shows, so choose the right sofa suited to your preference!

Aside from choosing the colour and the fabric of the sofa, keep in mind the quality and personal comfort. Thus arises the age-old question – is a soft or a firm sofa better?

This is a question that many of our customers have asked us. While a soft sofa might be comfortable, there are many disadvantages that come with it.

Soft Sofas

A soft sofa initially may be the obvious choice, but too comfortable a sofa may actually be ruining your back. Physiotherapists have warned against soft sofas with deep cushions as 20% of customers who have purchased soft sofas have complained of lower backache and shoulder strain. Soft sofas actually encourage people to slouch rather than facilitate good postural habits. “Soft upholstery may not give the spine and neck the support that is required,” notes Richard Evans, physiotherapist of the Back and Body Clinic, “by sitting for too long, especially in a poor postural or slumped position you can add a tremendous amount of pressure to your back, overstretch the spinal ligaments and increase the pressure on your intervertebral discs. This in turn can lead to on-going aches and pains.”

Kids and Pets

However, softer sofas are particularly popular for those with kids. Kids might not be big enough to sit fully on the sofa, so having a soft sofa allows them to lie on the seat cushion, and kids generally have lots of fun bouncing around on them. However, those with pets should note that softer sofas are more susceptible to wear and tear should your pet like to lie on your sofa a lot. A common case is an indentation in the shape of your pet forming in the soft sofa.

Firm Sofas

On the other hand, firm sofas are ideal for optimum back support. In addition to promoting good posture, firm sofas are also good for hosting guests. Sofas soften with prolonged use, so getting a firm sofa will become soft over time. However, too firm a sofa can take away the joy of sinking into a comfortable sofa after a long day of work, so ensure that you strike a balance. Adding soft cushions can boost the profile of the sofa, ensuring a good mix of softness and firmness that you can enjoy.  If your sofa would be used to host guests often, a firmer sofa would definitely be the better choice, as a soft sofa is much less durable. A firm sofa makes sitting upright and talking easier,  as compared to sinking back on a soft seat, providing a comfortable talking environment.

We’ve often been asked by our customers how firm our sofas are. Most of our sofas are made of high-quality dense foam which is slightly firmer than the average sofa cushion. Our reason for preferring such a firmness is that we want our sofas to be durable and versatile.

Customers who prefer a softer sofa can add soft cushions, or sometimes even a layer of cloth over the sofa seat to increase the amount of cushioning. However, because we are the manufacturers, we’re able to customize the firmness of the sofa. If you’d like a softer, customized sofa, feel free to contact our team and we’ll see what we can do for you! www.centrepiece.com.sg or email: info@centrepiece.com.sg

All in all, it all boils down to personal preference. Take your time in deciding which sofa works best for you!

Posted on August 17, 2017 by kwanyinma

 

 

 

 

How to Source Manufacturers of Custom Made Couches

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afforadable style files, affordable art, australia expats, B & B, big house, custom made sofa, designer sofa, expensive sofa, furniture, good sofa, interior design, LGBTQ, love decor, outdoor cushions, pinkdot10, singapore bungalow, Singapore expats, sofa, space sofa

If you’ve been searching for well-made, stylish couches or sofas for your home, and can’t find what you want, consider the option of custom-made couches. While most regular shops, on the high street or in real-life shopping malls, offer relatively limited ranges, there are all sorts of other possibilities to explore.

For example, you can have sofas designed especially for you, or you can ask a manufacturer to imitate an existing look. Alternatively, many companies have their own specialized ranges with a choice of finishes that they maintain produces a “custom-made” piece of furniture.

What the term custom-made means
When we talk about custom-made items we generally mean that these are made according to the specifications of a particular person who is buying that product. Similarly, when we say furniture and building structures are custom-built we mean that they are constructed according to what the customer wants. The alternative is to buy things off-the-shelf or ready-made. What this means is that you then choose from whatever has already been constructed, manufactured or produced.

In reality, manufacturers of so-called custom-made furniture tend to combine concepts. This is probably why another term, “customer-made” is also used by some contemporary manufacturers. What this relatively new term implies is that you can design your own couch within the parameters set by the company that will actually make it for you.

The procedure to be followed when looking for individualistic couches and sofas for customer-made pieces could follow this basic process:

• choose the couch design you like best,
• specify the size of the couch according to set dimensions,
• choose a fabric or leather to be used to cover the couch,
• decide on your personal level of comfort which will determine the way the couch is made.

You will probably agree that this sounds like an excellent concept.

Custom-made versus off-the-shelf

The main difference between any type of custom-made and the usual off-the-shelf furniture (be it couches or dining room suites) is that with the former you are offered some sort of exclusivity and/or individuality. The latter might cost the same, but it is possible for all your friends and neighbors to buy exactly the same stuff. If you are wanting “custom”, chances are you won’t want your neighbors to copy.

This isn’t where it stops. The custom-made concept also relates to the size of furniture that is made especially for you.

You may, for example live in a tiny apartment that simply can’t accommodate the dimensions of a sofa design that you love. By going to a specialist manufacturer you can have what you really like, but on a smaller scale – provided of course the scale actually does work in your home.

Just be careful of con artists who promise to do the job but don’t understand how design factors (specifically size and scale) work. You might end up with something that looks really awful after spending a whole lot of money. If your aren’t sure, buy what you can see and sit on before you pay for it.

What to look for when buying a couch

Whatever type of couch or sofa you want to buy, first and foremost decide on a style. Also have a good idea of what you want in terms of color and finish. A couch is really what designers call an “anchor” piece, with other chairs, tables and so on adding to the general design scheme. For this reason it is wise to choose the best couch or couches you can afford.

Stores that offer custom-made couches usually display basic pieces in a range of shapes and sizes. Make sure you identify exactly what it is you want. For instance the length of a couch may be anything from 137 cm to 229 cm. Arm and back heights may also vary. You may end up paying a bit more for a custom size, but if it works for you there is absolutely no doubt that it will be worth it.

Even if you only want one couch, consider seating for at least six people. Very few people stay at home alone for their entire lives! Maybe think of buying two custom made couches. Otherwise buy a few single chairs for people to sit on.

Remember that upholstered furniture can always be reupholstered in a different fabric later on when your tastes change or when you can afford something better. With this in mind, it is sometimes better to buy a secondhand piece of furniture that has been really well made, and then have it reupholstered in a trendy fabric or in leather. It might not seem to be “custom” made, but often the older designs are a lot better, particularly when good-quality wood has been used to make them.

Finding a suitable manufacturer
The best way to find reputable, reliable and reasonable manufacturers of custom-made couches and other furniture is often word of mouth. If your friends have had a good experience, then it is certainly worth trying the same company. Another way is to check out advertisements posted or placed by manufacturers who say that they do what you need.

There are numerous manufacturers that will make sofas to order, including:

• Élan Designs Ltd that ship to both the USA and Canada.- www.elansofas.com
• Dumonds, which manufactures comfortable and functional designs that are distributed throughout Canada and the USA. – www.dumonds.com
• The Sofa Company which, based in California, offers a range of services from build-your-own to recovering couches. – www.thesofaco.com
• Centrepiece furnishing is a premium sofa manufacturer that is based in Singapore. – www.centrepiece.com.sg
• Van Gogh Designs, a Vancouver-based manufacturer that produces custom-upholstered furniture for both the home and hospitality industry. – www.vangoghdesigns.com

By Penny Swift

email: info@centrepiece.com.sg

 

 

 

 

How can a wingback chair make your space look stylish.

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accent chair, american school singapore, australia, australia expats, australia singapore, courts, crate and barrel, doctors, expensive sofa, Gucci, ikea, IMH, lawyers, LV, molecule, NUH, NUS, Singapore expats, sofa, trump, TTSH

www.centrepiece.com.sg The Wingback Chair

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KEY ATTRIBUTES: An easy-to-spot accent chair thanks to its signature winged sides and typically tall back. The generous size of a wingback makes it an ideal counterpart to a large sofa, since it can give the room a sense of balance in scale.

FREQUENTLY SPOTTED: Perched next to a fireplace. Protecting the inhabitant from drafts and the heat from a roaring fire was the original purpose of the chair’s side wings, and some things, like winter, never change.

OUR FAVORITE UNEXPECTED USE: As end chairs at the head and foot of a dining table. There’s something undeniably thronelike about the stately shaped of wingback chairs, and as dining chairs they give meals added gravitas.

MOST LIKELY TO: Stay put in its designated spot. The size and heft of most wingback chairs means they’re not the easiest to move when there’s a need for extra seating during a party.

Contact www.centrepiece.com.sg or email: info(at)centrepiece.com.sg to ask us how you can custom made a prefect fit wingchair for your home. As it is Made in Singapore, you can be assured of its quality! Always sturdy, reliable and in top quality!

How To Decorate With Oversized Sofas? Singapore

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botanic garden, custom made sofa, expat living, expatriate singapore, expats schools, home, MBS, sentosa, Singapore custom made sofa, singapore furniture, singaporean, sky habitat, tan boon liat building

If you’re anything like us, you spend a lot of your spare time sitting on your couch. Given a couch or suite of furniture is an investment for the years to come, and how often we sit on them, a quality sofa is worth investing in. And it’s certainly not a decision you make lightly!

 

You need to take a whole range of things into account before you purchase a couch, from size to practicality, style to comfort, and as it’s one of the most integral pieces of furniture in your home, you’ll want to take some time and look at all your options before you jump into picking just one.

With that in mind, welcome to www.centrepiece.com.sg  – a guide to our favourite Sofa – where you’ll find sofa that can transform the look of your living room – and some of the best of what we are offering, to give you an idea of the kinds of styles you’ll find in each custom made in Singapore sofa.

email: info(at)centrepiece.com.sg

 

 

 

 

How to Determine Furniture Proportion to a Room?

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Art, big house, Big sofa, botanic garden, bungalow, custom made sofa, expatliving, F1, furnishing, housing expats, interior, love, made in Singapore, marina bay sands, sentosa, singapore, sofa

The proportions of a room are determined not only by the square footage but also by ceiling height, window sizes and sill height as well as any openings or doorways in the room. The relationship a room has with other areas is important to consider for traffic flow and visual balance. A room’s purpose is also key to honing in on furniture scale. For instance, a music room may make use of a space in ways that are different from a child’s room or a master bedroom. Measuring the height and width of the walls are the starting point to achieving well-placed furniture in a room.

Measure

Measure the length of the walls and, if possible, sketch a floor plan – a bird’s eye view of the space that shows the layout of the room including the location of doors and windows. In a moderately sized living room, a sofa will likely go against a wall. Consider the window sill height, as this may affect the height of a sofa or chair. When you visit a furniture showroom, measure the length, seating depth and arm width. It is often difficult to perceive the actual size of furniture seen in a store with high ceilings and wide-open space and be able to translate it to fit in a home with typically smaller areas. The scale of the furniture is equally important to the length. Oversized rolled arms in a small room will feel unbalanced and block visual flow. Instead, select sofa and chair arms that take up less extended space. In a large room, diminutive furniture might feel and look less inviting; in this case, there is more room to allow for larger pieces.

Furniture Groups

Group furniture with visual balance. In a conversation area, pair two chairs at a height which is similar in height to other seating areas. For instance, pair low accent chairs with a low modern loveseat so that when people are seated they are at the same height. Think of the room as having a horizon line and include furniture that falls within that line of sight, rather than arbitrarily varying heights that do not relate to each other. Alternatively, two high-back chairs on one side of a room could be balanced with a tall hutch on the other side to create visual symmetry of the taller elements. If the back of a sofa will face outward toward the entrance of a room, select a sofa back that has a low profile rather than a tall back that will block the view of the room.

 

Large Room Vs. Small Room

Select key pieces of furniture before adding accessory pieces. In a small room you may need to forego a side table or other accessories. Editing unnecessary furniture goes a long way to keeping the relationship of the furniture in the room from feeling closed in. In a large room, the challenge is to avoid creating a too-wide distance between spaces. For example, consider human scale as you position conversation areas. A very large room with furniture spread out creates an awkward sense of spaciousness. Instead, imagine family and friends sitting in the space and place furniture at a distance that allows for human movement and so that two people can have a conversation.

Furniture Styles

Use low-profile furniture in a room with low ceilings. In a room with high ceilings, go taller with shelving or an armoire, and a four-poster bed in a bedroom. In a dining room, allow enough room for chairs to push back by placing the dining table at least 36 inches from a wall. In a small dining room, choose a chair style that does not impede visual flow, such as an open- or low-back design. In a large dining room, upholstered chairs with high backs will fill the volume of the room comfortably.

If you find this too much of a hassle, why not let the experts guide you along. Contact Vince @ 90305057 or email: info(at)centrepiece.com.sg to custom made a sofa that will fit into your space. In addition, you can custom your dining chairs, ottoman and headboard to coordinate that designer look for your space. Deal directly at our workshop: www.centrepiece.com.sg

Expats returning from Singapore, secrets you need to know.

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america, architecture, beds, Big sofa, botanic garden, chair, comfort food and sofa, custom made sofa, interior design, love, sentosa

If your work in Singapore is done and you are packing to return to your home country. You may already know that certain things are still better valued in Singapore than your home country. This could be because of lower manpower cost or for local products.

One of which is custom made sofa and headboards, this is one secret that you need to know, getting your custom made sofa in Singapore will give you better value and quality for a better price. Just pack your items together with your other furniture to cut freight cost.

Contact Vince at 90305057 or email info(at)centrepiece.com.sg

Www.centrepiece.com.sg

Guide to Choosing Throw Pillows

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architecture, Art, botanicg garden, cushions, design, expat living, expatriate singapore, furniture, Gucci, home, interior design, LV, singapore, singaporean, sofa

We’re always touting how easy it is to breathe new life in your room simply by switching out throw pillows. It’s true, a group of new fabrics and colors can give your space a totally different feel, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy to cull through all of the thousands of great throw pillows in every shade imaginable to find 4 or 5 that will work well for your space. There’s an overwhelming selection out there, which makes the process confusing! Well, we want to make things easier for you. Consider this our guide to choosing the right throw pillows for your room.

First, there are a few principals you should always keep in mind:

1. Choose one cohesive color palette and do not veer from it. You’re going to get the most impact if all of your pillows are either in the same shade or in a pair of complimentary shades.
2. Shoot for a symmetrical arrangement, whether it’s on your couch, bed, or a window seat. When you’re layering several different fabrics on top of each other, things can get really busy, really fast. We like a symmetrical arrangement because it keeps things feeling orderly and polished.
3. One simple print, one busy print, and one solid. This is a basic formula that’ll help you narrow down your options. Another way to think about it is — one small print, one big print, one solid. Your busy/large print should be on your largest pillows or the pillow that is front and center, as this print will usually set the tone for not just your pillow arrangement but the rest of your room. Plaids and stripes work well as small/simple prints.
4. As your move towards the inside of the sofa, the pillows should get smaller. Visually, your largest pillows should be in the far corners, and your smaller pillow should be on the inside. But also for comfort, it makes the most sense to add the large 22 or 24″ pillows on the sides, where you won’t need to move them out of the way. A small 12×20″ pillow right in the center won’t make you feel like you’re perched on the edge of the couch because the pillows are taking up all of the room!
5. Although decorative, pillows are really meant to add comfort to your upholstered furniture pieces, so don’t go overboard! We’ve all sat down on that couch that is so packed to the gills with throw pillows that you feel like you’re being shoved into a bag of marshmallows. This is not the situation you want to create, so if you have to ask if you have too many, take on or two away!

Once you have these basic principles down, you’re ready to pick out fabrics! This is the fun part, but also the time when we become the most confused. There are just so many options! To narrow it down, consider the style you’d like to create in your home.

Bold Solids

If your room already has a lot of patterns, like a patterned sofa, dramatic curtains, or a vibrant rug, take your pillow fabrics down a notch. Or if you really like color but don’t want to use a vibrant hue on large pieces (like your sofa or club chairs) just use solid pillows in very vibrant hues.

Here, we chose two colors that are on the opposite ends of the color wheel (called complimentary colors), a spicy orange and a cool blue. Colors look extra rich and vibrant when placed next to to complimentary colors, making the overall look much more dramatic. Individually, they look nice, but together they really sing!

If you’re starting from scratch, find a fabric, an art print, or an accessory as a jumping off point. For example, we picked the gorgeous plaid throw on the back of the sofa and let it inspire the rest of the space. The spicy orange and navy are both found in the blanket, so we picked pillows in solid shades for maximum color impact!

One Color, Three Patterns

If you want a group of pillows in just one color, choose three different fabrics that work together. We used a very organic, bold print as our jumping off point (the floral pattern in the center), and we balanced the color on the sofa with bold velvet pillows in the corner and plaid pillows in the middle.

The basic key here is balance. The bold pillows in the middle and in the corners help to balance the off-white sofa and lighter plaid pillows. The feminine floral print (our Rayna fabric) in the center is balanced by a more masculine plaid print on either side. And the patterned pieces are a balance to the solid pieces.

So when you’re putting together different fabrics in the same color, just ask yourself, “does this pattern balance this pattern?”

Warm, Neutral Colors

Even if you want to keep your color palette neutral, you’ll still need a few throw pillows to bring texture and pattern to your space. For this combination, we chose a color palette of off-white, taupe, and chocolate.

We started with our busiest print, our Leo Brown fabric, then we brought in a much larger print in a complimentary color, our Buffalo Check in Taupe. Finally to tie these two prints together and act as a backdrop, we chose a solid chocolate brown linen pillow with a contrasting flange.

Simple but Fresh with Analogous Colors

If you like color but want a group of pillows that aren’t too loud, choose colors that are next to each other on the color wheel, or analogous colors. These are colors that have a lot in common but are different, which makes for a color palette that is quieter and more polished.

For the sofa above, we chose pink and orange. These two colors are neighbors on the color wheel, but they’re still a great pairing. We also picked two art pieces to hang over the couch that reinforce the pink-and-orange combination.

 

Use Solids as an Exclamation Point

We love the way a well placed solid pillow in a vibrant color can act like an exclamation point on your couch. A rich, sapphire blue stands out the most, even though there are patterns and other colors here too. A solid pillow may seem like a boring choice when there are so many lovely patterns out there, but in the right space, one solid pillow in a bold color can really establish a color palette that may have been hiding.

If you want to breathe new life into your space with very little effort, use a couple of solid pillows in a bold color in your space. Pull this color from other patterns on your upholstered pieces or in your accessories, then use that color in punches throughout your space.

Streamlined Stripes

If you’re looking for an approach that isn’t fussy, we love to simply pair one bold color in a lush fabric (here we used velvet) with a classic stripe. Stripes are a great pattern to use for pillows because they’re the perfect balance of bold and simple. Our strategy here was easy enough, choose one bold color used elsewhere in your space for three pillows, then bring in two striped pillows for a little pattern.

 

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Let’s Talk Inserts

Ok, after all of this talk of colors and patterns, it’s time to get down to the less exciting details … like inserts. Just like the filling inside your sofa, what’s on the inside is just as important as the outside, even with throw pillows. Pillows are meant to bring extra comfort and cushion to your couch, so it’s important to use good quality throw pillows. All foam throw pillows aren’t going to be your first choice for support when you’re trying to curl up for a nap on your couch.

You don’t necessarily need the most expensive inserts, but do choose inserts that include both feather and down. We’re obviously partial to our own down blended inserts which are 95% feathers and 5% down.

Here’s another little secret when you’re choosing inserts for your pillows. If you want a fuller pillow, size up your insert. For example, if you have a 20″ cover, and you want a really full pillow, use a 22″ insert.

Now, are you ready to choose pillows for your space? Do you feel empowered to mix patterns and colors like a pro? You should!

Contact Vince at 90305057 or email: info(at)centrepiece.com.sg

www.centrepiece.com.sg

 

“What is the difference between a $10,000 sofa and a $2,000 sofa or even a $1,000 sofa?”

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architecture, Art, cool, custom made sofa, decor, design, fun, home, lifestyle, scandinavian, singapore, sofa

Occasionally, someone asks me:
“What is the difference between a $10,000 sofa and a $2,000 sofa or even a $1,000 sofa?”
Well, the latter is definitely massed-produced. However, the difference between the 10k and 2k usually has a lot to do with the name more than what’s inside it. This is true for a lot of things we buy. right?
I can’t tell you how many sofas and chairs I’ve sold in my career. All I know is that it’s hundreds. Most people buy maybe at most a dozen sofas in their entire lifetime, and some only one or two.
The sofa is the most expensive piece of upholstered furniture in the living room and it’s also the largest, of course. Therefore, careful consideration should be paid, but please don’t drive yourself crazy.

Quite frankly, if you stick to the manufacturers with good reps and quality, they’re all pretty nice. Ask around and see if you will to know Centrepiece furnishing Singapore.

www.centrepiece.com.sg or email: info(at)centrepiece.com.sg

This is known as a Bridgewater Sofa or an English roll arm sofa

This is a sleek track arm sofa.

TCS Designs makes my favorite settee. It is quite compact and yet just as comfortable as a full-sized sofa, so I’ve used it many times, when space is tight.

 

This is a Tuxedo Arm sofa which we did below for the Bronxville sun room with a skirt

 

The Lawson arm sofa is probably the most common basic style. In the 80’s the arms were really BIG sometimes. This version from Lee is updated yet still classic. The so-called “traditional sofa” is usually a version of this arm with a 7″ skirt.

 

A newer frame from CR Laine, the Huntley evokes a kind of Hollywood of the 1930s-type glamor to me.

This sofa from Lee is not only very beautiful, but feels totally luxurious and enveloping to sit in.

A classic leather Chesterfield. This became popular in men’s club houses in the early part of the 20th century. It’s distinctive large round arm is the same height as the back. It is usually tufted.

This is a custom-made Chesterfield I had made for a client in Scarsdale, NY 2 years ago.

The wedge sofa is a newer style. This version from Lee is a winner. There are other versions of this style which are also great, but I included the wedge, because I think that it’s kinda cool and would be great for watching TV.

CR Laine’s Chichester sofa is a new take on the classic Chesterfield sofa.

centrepiece.com.sg or email: info(at)centrepiece.com.sg

10 Design Strategies for Art Lovers

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architecture, Art, home, kindness, lifestyle, people, singapore

Buy the art that you love, then boost its impact with decor

Pangaea June 9, 2011

Artists get into a real tizzy about the subject of people looking for art-to-match-the-sofa. Coming from a background as an artist, I always encourage my interior design clients to select art first if they don’t have any so they feel free to buy what they love and not worry about what it goes with. And then we can plan the decor around the art.

I’m sure I’ll get an irate artist or two commenting here. I’ve spoken with some artists who feel the art completely stands on its own and should have nothing to do with the decor. Here’s the simple fact. No matter how irritated artists get by the subject of art-matching-the-sofa, your art will always look better and have greater impact in the space when the decor supports the art. Here are techniques you can use in your decor to support your art and make it even better.

1. Repetition of color and line. This art is so well supported by this room. The strong black-and-white graphic image is echoed in the black-and-white upholstery with lines that are similar to the curves in the woman’s face. Even with the bright yellow accents in the room, the art is still the standout.

Repeating color from the art increases its impact in the room. Here, the green bed pillows pull their color from the art. Without them, the art doesn’t feel quite as strong. Try it! Put your finger just over the pillows in the picture. Having that bit of green on the bed to echo the color visually strengthens the art.

The undulating lines of the vases on this table pick up the shapes from the painting and increases its visual interest.

There are a lot of ways to repeat the lines in art. This dining table emulates the curves and the color of the center of the painting. The floral display brings in more of the color.

2. Balance of color. This art has a lot of black with just a little bit of red. The black sofa with just a little red pillow keeps the same balance of colors as the art. Carrying that balance of color though the furnishings spreads the influence of the painting.

3. Multiple works of art. Combining multiple works of art by the same artist or that have a very similar style creates greater impact. Here the art above the fireplace and the red painting on the wall work together to contrast their strong horizontal and vertical lines, balancing each other and drawing your eye first to one, then the other, and back again. Together they create a stronger look than each would have by itself.

4. Furniture placement. Placement of your art is important, but so is the placement of your other furnishings around the art. This painting would have looked great on the wall all by itself. But the wavy bench underlines the painting and gives it emphasis, the same as underlining a word in a sentence.

5. Reflection. Through the placement of mirrors on the wall and ceiling, walking down the hall you get this painting repeated in reverse and upside down. It’s a pretty dramatic way to get you noticing the reflections then studying the painting to see how it looks when it isn’t turned upside down and backwards.

Craig Denis

6. Restraint: Sometimes you can support art by just exercising some restraint and letting it be the star of the room. The quilt behind this sofa is extremely detailed and really invites inspection. By keeping the sofa, chair, wall color, lampshade and rug in a monochromatic scheme, the designer gives your eye someplace to rest. In this case, because of the level of detail in the art, picking up colors and shapes in accessories would actually distract.

The green slash of color in the painting is only repeated in the wall of the dining room visible through the arch … and nowhere else. It has more impact than it would if accessories all over the room picked up the color.

Hire a local handyman to help you hang your art and install wall displays

450 Architects, Inc.

7. The color palette. Going beyond just picking up a single color from a painting, this room has used all of the colors in the art for the room’s entire color palette. This artwork is by the homeowner, so she was able to surround herself with colors that she loves. The rug seems to pick up all of the colors of the painting on the left. I wonder if it is custom or just a very lucky find?

Praktyczne i Piękne

8. Style. The art above the stairs is contemporary, with clear and bright colors. The yellow open stair treads feel just as fresh as the artwork and complements it beautifully.

Elliott Kaufman

The style of the artwork is soft and serene. The style of the decor complements it beautifully with the same muted color palette and soft velvety textures.

Imagine Living

9. Humor. I have to confess that I’ve bought plenty of art because the subject made me laugh out loud. In my own entryway I have a large portrait of my husband making a funny face. It stops first time visitors in their tracks when they see it, then gets a belly laugh, and the conversation gets off to a great start.

Work with an artist to create one-of-a-kind portraits

This large painting of a boy picking his nose is pretty outrageous. The chair below it is pretty outrageous too, with the wild contemporary print on a traditional chair style. Don’t be afraid to have a little fun with your art and decor. It doesn’t need to be serious all the time.

10. Lighting. Most people realize that putting a spotlight on your art will highlight it and make it stand out. But in this room the lighting increases the impact of the art by the shadows cast. Using lighting to enhance your art is another big subject, so I’ll have to go into that in another Ideabook.

Combine techniques. Using a combination of the above techniques creates a very strong design. This room is so expertly done and supports the art so uniquely. The large black rectangle of the art is found in the shape of the pillows and again in the pattern in the rug. Notice how the art is not centered behind the sofa. That staggering of rectangles is picked up in the pattern of the rug — in the placement of the pillows to one end of the sofa — and again in the off-center placement of the coffee table. It combines repetition of color, repetition of shape, and furniture placement to add emphasis.

This room also employs a few techniques. The sculpture in the corner and the painting share several colors so they work beautifully together. A very subtle touch is the shape of the black chandelier repeating the curves of the women’s bustiers in the painting. Subtle, but very effective.

What ways have you found to enhance the art in your home?

www.centrepiece.com.sg / email: info(at)centrepiece.com.sg

I need you to bloom for me, please.

Tags

Art, beauty, design, flowers, fun, home, lifestyle, nature, peace, people, singapore, USA

It is always sunny in Singapore. We do not have the seasonal changes of Winter to Spring, so styles in clothes or fashion does not differ too much in-between seasons.

However, we do not have to be boring with the home decor during this “spring” time.

So… I am hoping that one of you will be buying into these “BLOOMS!”

 

Contact us at info(at)centrepiece.com.sg or text: 90305057.

www.centrepiece.com.sg

Showroom sofa to clear in Singapore.

Product Details

Make a statement with this sofa, measuring 2 mtr X 97cm in depth. It is the only piece and being a showroom piece, it has to be tip-top condition.

Only 9 months in our showroom but we need to clear it for new arriving designs.I am sure it will be right at home with your style and you need to be fast to get it!

UP at SGD $1800… Offer price at $990!

Contact 90305057 immediately before it is gone.

www.centrepiece.com.sg or email: info(AT)centrepiece.com.sg

How a Few Throw Pillows Can Change the Look of Any Room

There’s no easier and less expensive way to refresh your living room or bedroom than updating your throw pillows. It’s a great way to embrace the latest home decor trends without fully committing to Ikat print or an orange chevron design.

 TAMMY VALENTINEJUL 17, 2013

 Singapore homeowners can add a touch of Peranakan charm without going overboard by using some great throw pillows. There’s no easier and less expensive way to refresh your living room or bedroom than by updating your throw pillows. It’s a great way to embrace the latest home decor trends without fully committing to an ikat print or an orange chevron design. Decorative pillows are relatively inexpensive, especially if you revamp your old ones.

One pillow placed in a chair or on a sofa can change the look of a whole room. Pillows can create that pop of colour you need in a room or serve as a transition accessory to pull together different colours or styles.

Reflect Your Personality

If you have a wild side and like cow skull prints, find throw pillows decorated with these designs. They’ll work well in a teen’s bedroom; depending on your design theme, you could also use them in your living room. Show your love of Singapore with decorative pillows for living room. Embrace Hawaiian chic style with banana leaves pillows or styles with accents of pineapples. Throw pillows are a great way to show your personality or interests in your home decor, no matter what your style is.

Placement matters when it comes to decorative pillows. Pillows propped up across the back of a day bed create seating. If you move them to one side, you’ve converted your day bed into a sleeping area. You can create more comfortable seating on benches or in a breakfast nook with some larger pillows against the wall. Large floor pillows are perfect for extra seating in a kid’s room. Children and their friends can use them while watching you tubes or playing video games.

Pillows Rule in Bedrooms

Bedrooms are the place to go crazy with pillows. This is more popular for expatriates in Singapore. But the locals are catching on to this styling of the bedroom as the spending power increases. Some new throw pillows placed against your pillow shams will create a whole new look. Provide options in the master bedroom or guest room with a variety of pillow shapes and sizes to provide extra comfort.

The latest trend in decorating your bedroom with throw pillows is not to be too obsessed with matching the bedding. Choose a coordinating pattern or contrasting or neutral colour to create a new look in your bedroom. If you are not able to decide, speak to Vince who is always ready to give you some ideas on what is best for your décor.

If you don’t want to sleep with your throw pillows, place a plastic bin under your bed to stow them. If you can create a little extra room in your cupboard, have a hamper that can be used just for pillow storage.

Versatile Style

Where you place pillows on your sofa depends on your style. Go traditional by placing a throw pillow or two at either end. For a modern decor, prop up a pillow in the middle of each cushion. On long sofas, arrange your decorative pillows in angled layers across the back on one side. Throw pillows give you the flexibility to easily change the look of your home.

Want to know how a customised cushion can change the look of your home? Text Vince 90305057 for an appointment at our factory space now.

www.centrepiece.com.sg

Here are some keys on how to make a decision without regret.

Tags

Art, best materials and fabrics, centrepiece, comfort sofa, expatliving, furniture, home, love, singapore, sofa

1. Have a Life Vision

A life vision should be the foundation and reference point for every decision you make. In your deepest dreams, how do you envision your life in all areas — career, relationships, finances, lifestyle, etc.  What core values define this vision for you? Make a point of writing down your vision and the values that define it. Refine the vision over time as necessary. Then when a big decision comes along, you can use this vision as a guide.  If you deviate too far from the vision, it will cause you eventual pain and regret. Evaluate your choices based on your vision. Which one is in closest alignment with your vision?

2. Evaluate the Pros and the Cons

Consider the possible positive and negative aspects or consequences of your decision. Write down a list of pros and cons for each possible alternative. Then prioritize these points with the most important considerations at the top of the list. What are the possible implications of the cons? Do they outweigh the pros? Can you live with the potential negative fallout or consequences? What could you do to mitigate the fallout?

3. Phone a Friend

Carefully select two or three trusted friends whose opinion and judgment you value. Tell them about your life vision, show them your list of pros and cons and ask for their input about your decision. Someone who is removed from the turmoil of the decision and who has a different perspective can help you see things in a clearer light. A personal coach also can help you gain clarity around your decision by asking you pointed questions related to your motivations, feelings, and desires.

4. Invoke a Higher Power

Go to a quiet place. Breathe deeply. Close your eyes. Go within. Pray or meditate (or whatever feels right to you) and ask for guidance. Your own inner wisdom and intuition will often rise to your conscious mind when you calm the mental chaos of over-thinking your decision. Imagine yourself in all of the possible outcomes and pay attention to how you feel. Keep a pen and paper handy to make notes about your feelings after reflection. Give it a few days. You may be surprised that the answer presents itself unexpectedly.

5. Try the Coin Trick

I love this idea because it puts you in touch with you real desires. Grab a quarter and assign one decision choice to heads and the other to tails. Flip the coin and before it lands, pay attention to side you hope it lands on. If there are more than two choices, balance each choice against another using the same trick. More than likely, this immediate reaction is what you truly want to do. Something in your heart is pulling you in that direction. Examine this result carefully, because even if the choice conflicts with all of the practical considerations, you may be dishonoring your deepest desires.

6. Research and Experiment

Do the work to gain as much knowledge as possible about the options. Research, ask questions, talk with people who have experienced each scenario. If possible, experiment with the alternative outcomes. If you are considering a move, spend a good amount of time in the city you are contemplating. If you are exploring a job opportunity, ask to spend a day or two shadowing someone in the office. If you are thinking of ending a relationship, test some time apart before you make your decision.

7. Don’t Look Back

If you have done the work, honored your vision, examined the pros and cons, sought guidance, done your due diligence, and connected with your intuition, then make your choice, take the leap and don’t look back. There are millions of paths we can take in a lifetime, all leading to different opportunities and potential consequences. You won’t have a guarantee, but you don’t need one. Uncertainty is part of the adventure of life. Once you are on this new adventure, have confidence that you made the best decision with the information available, and move forward with a spring in your step. There is something good to be learned on every path we follow.

The ability to make a decision is the fuel for personal and professional growth. If you enter a decision with the knowledge that uncertainty is inevitable, and you accept you must decide in spite of uncertainty, then you will never get stuck.  By taking the steps outlined, you empower yourself to make an informed and thoughtful choice, leaving little room for future regret.

By Barrie Davenport

BUT SERIOUSLY… if you are just thinking of getting a custom made sofa or to decide on the best fabrics to upholstery your favourite armchair? Just go with your fancy and decide whatever you want… we will help you along the way:P

www.centrepiece.com.sg or email: info(AT)centrepiece.com.sg

Or Text Vince chiang at 90305057 for an appt.

Does the furniture have sentimental value?

Tags

Art, cars, chair, custom made sofa, expat living, expat singapore, expat sofa, fabrics, food, home, marina bay sands, MBS, rolex, sentosa, singapore, singapore sofa, sofa, sofa maker

One of our customer found an antique rocking chair 25 years ago in the attic of an inn his parents purchased. He’s dragged the chair with him to every home and apartment he’s lived ever since, through four or five different moves, says his partner, Leslie.

 “Over the years, it got in worse and worse shape,” Leslie says of the chair, which deteriorated with torn corners, worn padding, spots of discoloration, scratches and a ripped back.

 He thought about throwing it out, but his partner became attached to the chair. So he decided to repair and reupholster the piece of furniture instead.

“I wanted to fix it up for him as a Christmas present. I also got sick of 15 years of throwing a blanket over it whenever anyone came over, because I was embarrassed.”

 He spent SGD $1250 with us to repair the piece of furniture and learning the chair likely originated from the late 1890s, he says.

“It’s an incredible amount of money to spend on one chair, but it was old, an antique, and the quality of the work that was done was excellent,” he says.

 Consumers might want to consider keeping and repairing worn pieces of furniture they’ve become attached to, such as antiques or furniture passed down from parent to child.

If a consumer gets rid of a piece of furniture they inherited from a grandparent or parent, they might regret it.

 “There’s no price to sentimental value, so if your furniture means something to you, think hard before deciding to replace it,” he says.

 

Even if the furniture doesn’t have sentimental value, consumers might simply like their favorite sofa or stuffed chair, either because of comfort or style. Consumers should consider replacing worn fabric on couches they find comfortable, and that fit with the overall style and décor of their home.

When you have decided on this, contact us for an estimated quote via email: info(AT)centrepiece.com.sg or whatapps images and size to: 90305057.

 www.centrepiece.com.sg