When space is tight, it might be tempting to take a minimalist approach to decorating. But there’s an argument for challenging the status quo and embracing maximalism in a compact abode. Smaller spaces offer the perfect canvas for expressing personality. By strategically introducing the right textures, patterns, colours and furniture, even the tiniest spaces can feel sumptuous without appearing cramped. Functionality first When it comes to furniture, functionality is critical. Conceal-and-reveal style storage or workstations, extendable tables and built-in beds offer clever solutions fo ..read more

If you’re on the hunt for inspiration and expert advice for your upcoming home improvement project, you won’t want to miss Denise’s appearance at the 2024 Spring Ideal Home Show. Taking place in the RDS, this jam-packed event runs from April 26th to the 28th, offering endless opportunities for inspiration and insights. Downsizing: A Guide to Embracing Change and Designing Your Perfect Space Denise will be taking the stage at 3.40pm on Friday April 26th to discuss the topic of Downsizing. “Downsizing can feel like a rollercoaster of emotions and decisions. Having helped my parents do ..read more

You may or may not be familiar with the term Dopamine Dressing. It refers to the trend of wearing brighter colours during the more gloomy months to boost your mood and keep the winter blues at bay. While it might seem trivial, there is some merit to the idea. And just as wearing brighter colours can boost your mood during the winter months, incorporating specific colours into your home can enhance your emotional well-being and create a more uplifting atmosphere. Here’s a look at the science behind ‘dopamine decorating’ and some practical tips to try it out in your home. The Science Behi ..read more

Did you know that almost 43% of people abandon their New Year’s resolutions before the end of January? But what if the key to sticking to your goals wasn’t just about willpower? Research shows that our surroundings can significantly shape our behaviours, and making small changes to our homes can help us build and maintain healthy habits throughout the year. By designing your home to support healthy habits, you can create an environment that promotes wellness and makes it easier to achieve your goals. Here are some ideas to get you started: Environmental design and choice architectur ..read more

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is underestimating the time required for a home renovation project. Whether you’re planning a minor refresh or a complete overhaul, the reality is that building projects of all sizes often take longer than anticipated. From the early planning stages before the builder even starts, to the actual construction process, there are countless steps to navigate to get to the finish line. But the good news is that with the right preparation and knowledge, you can plan properly, stay on track and enjoy your renovation journey. The early Stages of a ..read more

We make tens of thousands of choices each day. From whether to hit the snooze button when our alarm goes off to whether to watch just one more episode of whatever show we’re streaming or go to bed. Our days are simply a series of endless decisions we need to navigate. Throw a home renovation into the mix, and the complexity and number of choices can skyrocket. It’s crucial to develop strategies for efficient decision-making; otherwise, you risk falling into the trap of decision fatigue and overwhelm. If you’re planning on embarking on a home renovation this year, here are six tips to help y ..read more

There are a couple of times in the year when everyone’s home could benefit from a good clear out: Early April, for the annual Spring clean and September, marking the end of summer and back to school and post-Christmas after the influx of gifts, hampers and Christmas Decorations. January is the ideal time of year  for taking stock and getting your home in order for the months ahead.  Thankfully getting organized is as easy as investing in a few simple solutions that will keep your home as neat and clean as possible. Here are my tips on how to declutter your house by tackling the fo ..read more

Happy Christmas This is our final post before Christmas, what a year it’s been! We are closing for the holidays on Friday 22nd December, our phone lines & offices will reopen on Tuesday 2nd January 2024. Our book a call facility will remain open over the holidays so you can schedule a call for the New Year by clicking HERE. Thank you for your continued support throughout the year. Warmest thoughts and best wishes for a wonderful Christmas and a very happy New Year from Denise and all the team at Optimise Design & Optimise Home. New Year’s Resolution If a home renovation ..read more

Getting your home guest-ready for Christmas doesn’t have to be complicated or costly. Many of the little things that make a big difference can be achieved without too much effort or expense. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or are preparing for a large family get-together, there are some tips to help make hosting a breeze. Cleaning up  Before putting your decorations up, give your home a thorough tidy. Take time to go through each room in the house, remove any unwanted items and ensure everything is clean and tidy. Declutter any room where guests will be staying to free up ..read more

Pets bring endless joy and love into our lives. But for many of us, balancing our need for a stylish, comfortable home with our furry friends’ needs can feel overwhelming. However, by incorporating thoughtful design tweaks, we can create a beautiful and functional space that works for us and our four-legged family members. Here are some ideas for pet-proofing your home without sacrificing style. Think Durable and Washable Practicality is the name of the game when it comes to pet-proofing. When selecting furniture and flooring, it’s important to keep durability in mind. With durable and ..read more