And just like that Autumn is almost at an end, which means Rug season is finally here! This May we had the pleasure of inviting the lovely Stephanie Astri of Arlen Interiors to take part in our Style Files Blog and chat to us on all things home styling. Being a mum of two, she completely understands the importance of practicality over aesthetics when creating a beautiful space. Here’s what Steph had to say:

My style is:

Anything Coastal related! My all time favourite would have to be Coastal Mediterranean.

I find inspiration:

Everywhere from Airbnb’s to travelling (especially Bali and Europe) and Pinterest is amazing! The inspiration you can find on there is endless.

I use colour to:

Inject some fun and life into a space. I usually use colour in artworks and keep everything else quite earthy and neutral.

Form or Function. Why?:

Function all the way! Do you really want to live in a home or work in a space that has no flow? I always think practicality first. I want to enjoy being in a comfortable space rather than a space that just looks pretty.

Styling advice I live by:

There’s two I go by.. Go with your gut and always think about the way you want to feel in the space and if you keep a neutral and earthy palette you can bring some fun and colour in through cushions and artwork. This is easily interchangeable if you get bored easily like myself.

Top home styling tips:

• Stay consistent (whether that’s through continuing colours throughout your home or keeping the artwork within the same theme)
• Think about how you are going to be moving through the space. Especially when it comes to choosing big ticket items
• Trends are fun to watch but your home is a representation of you so always go with what style you love. Pinterest is the best place to start to help you decide
• Spend some time thinking about how you want to feel in the space
• Don’t forget to add texture to your spaces. You’ll be surprised how much of a difference this can make. The easiest way to do this is through rugs, cushions, textured vases or artwork (just to name a few)
• My final and biggest tip is mood boards! This is so important to help you with your home styling so you can get the consistency right. The more detailed your mood boards are the better. I always find if I put even the smaller decor details in my mood boards, it all comes together perfectly.

Top tips for buying the perfect rug:

• Always measure the space so you can get the right rug or rugs if layering right
• Think about where the rug is going and the material of the rug. For example, I wouldn’t put a shag rug underneath the dining table especially because I have kids. If you can find a wool rug or machine washable rug these are winners in my eyes.

What is your go to Six Fourteen Rug?:

I think it would have to be the Berrima Cream Polypropylene Rug. I love the softness and warmth it brings to a space!