Home Archives - The Handy Mano

Home 14 December 2018

How to Add Pantone’s Colour of the Year 2019 into Your Home

Pantone have announced their colour of the year 2019 as ‘Living Coral’. This vibrant and warm colour with a peachy orangey hue has inspired all kinds of interior design ideas for the up and coming year. We’ve put together some some of the ways in which you can inject the colour of the year into your home, so that you can find the best way keep your space up to date with the trendiest colour pallette.

Chair and table

This chair and table is a wonderful way of injecting brightness into your furniture. It would look especially good in your garden on a sunny day against the backdrop of some vibrant green grass.

Coral wallpaper

If you’re searching for a more prominent way of having ‘Living Coral’ in your home – look no further. This environmentally friendly wallpaper has a straight match pattern meaning it’s easy to measure out the width. You’ll start by putting it on 1 wall and then end up with this shade on all 4…

Hanging pendant light

This lampshade is a more delicate alternative to the vibrant and eye catching ‘Living Coral’. Should you want to introduce these pinky orangey hues into your colour scheme but have them toned down for the time being – this gorgeous pendant lamp will satisfy your colour craving.

Roman blinds

This roman blind is a great match to Pantone’s colour of the year. We love the balance of the transparent and opaque colours on the body and rimming of the blind. It even seems as if this colour scheme is the perfect combination of reds and pinks and would create ‘Living Coral’ when mixed together.

Toilet pedestal

Gone are the days of plain white and grey bathrooms. Be bold to add a splash of colour where you can for some added vibrancy to your bathroom. We’d suggest starting with something along the lines of toilet pedestals as they are a great non-committal way of doing it.

Vibrant toilet seat

Give your bathroom a trendy makeover with this tropical patterned toilet seat. Pair it in your bathroom with some real life palm leaves, and see your corner of the jungle come to life!

Indoor herb garden

If you’re a foodie, plant-fanatic or simply love the environment, you’ll love having an indoor herb garden in your home. If you’re not sure on how to get started, check out our guide on how to grow an indoor herb garden.

Patterned wallpaper

For those with a super stylish nature, take a look at this coral wallpaper which is patterned with subtle metallic flamingoes. This would go perfectly with a vintage style room paired with antiques – ‘Living Coral’ really is versatile!

We hope you picked up some inspiration on how to incorporate Pantone’s colour of the year into your home in a way which suits you. It’s beautiful vibrancy can be added to your space in so many different ways, so don’t hesitate to bring out the brightness in 2019 and start it off with a bang!

Pantone Colour of the Year 2018

Pantone Colour of the Year 2017

Home 7 December 2018

Top 10 Interior Design Trends 2019

Here’s the heads-up on the top 10 hottest interior design trends of the upcoming year so that you can be prepared and in the loop of what to expect in 2019. This post will help you plan ahead on how you can incorporate these into your space and give you an idea on the kind of things you’ll be seeing in all the interior magazines and catalogues. You saw it here first!

Scalloped furniture

https://www.sweetpeaandwillow.com/brands/handmade-with-love-furniture/ariel-upholstered-bed https://www.houseology.com/eichholtz-messina-sofa https://www.swooneditions.com/connie-contemporary-style-white-sideboard awc=5703_1544200179_1c04a3b2b93f2b1660d3edd3061a4ef7&utm_source=affiliate_window&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=228839

https://www.anthropologie.com/brands/bethan-gray-for-anthropologie

A huge trend this year is the scalloped edge. You’ll be seeing this design all over interior magazines and catalogues due to it’s elegant ability to fit in with both modern and 70s feel that everyone is excited about at the moment. This elegant design would fit in easily with so many home designs due to its simplicity and addition to the art deco feel. Bringing back rounded edges into interior design is looking big in 2019, not only with this particular design, but also with rounded back chairs and carpets in the home which makes 2019 the year of the ‘curvy trend’.

Scales

https://www.dwell.com/collection/favorites-from-a2-designers-b7f79989/6133571570783465472

This ‘scalloped’ graphic pattern has also been adapted to lots of different surfaces all over the face of 2019’s interior design’s up and coming trends due to its original and eye catching nature. Similarly to the curved and scalloped edges which we see emerging, scales fall also into the ‘curvy trend’ that you’ll soon be seeing everywhere. It’s alternative name (when tiled) is ‘mermaid tiles’ – should you want to have a look for yourself!

Velvet

http://www.northerninteriorgirl.co.uk/tag/trend/

Although this trend was still extremely apparent in 2018, it’s also heading head first into 2019 and not slowing down any time soon. People have been head over heels with velvet on everything including furniture, so it is a firm safe option if you’re afraid of short lived trends. It’s plush and cosy feel is too intriguing to re-sit.

Concrete bathrooms

http://www.visi.co.za/bathroom-trend-cemcrete-cement-finishes/ https://www.beckyshea.com/

This super sleek design does not only provide you with lots of sleek space in your bathroom, concrete also provides a waterproof and durable surface to work with which is extremely easy to manage. This industrial-style trend fits in perfectly with the modern minimalist style but also leaves you the flexibility to layer and add accessories which will also go with it.

Dark kitchens

https://www.livingetc.com/whats-news/the-latest-kitchen-trends-for-2018-2019-197615

The emerging trend of darker toned kitchens is a sleek and sophisticated upgrade to the older greys and whites that have been found in kitchens of the past. Having a two tone kitchen like in the images above compliments the colour of your surface, making the whole appearance more minimal and muted. Along with this, not only are they easier to maintain, but they also deter from the plain cupboards and gives you more of a focus on the intricacies of your kitchen decor.

Brass taps

https://www.manomano.co.uk/garden-taps-and-accessories/outside-polished-brass-tap-inlet-1-2-bsp-outlet-3-4-male-standard-1-2-hose-end-4069418?model_id=4069418

This trend is a more specific example of the emerging brass and gold tones that are becoming more and more apparent in interior design. Touches of this bright metal is an eye catching addition to what may be a cool toned or colour matched room which needs a bit of brightness. As shown, brass taps work beautifully in kitchens when complimenting darker or navy surfaces giving a new twist on a 90s classic due to a bit of mix and match.

Warm, blush and muted tones

https://www2.hm.com/en_gb/home.html http://www.indecortrends.com/10-painting-colors-that-will-be-trend-in-2019/interior-painting-color-trends-7/

This trend has come along with the re emergence of the 70s/80s interior boom which we’ve been seeing lately. The influence of the era’s warmer tones have influenced the interior design world more and more, to the extent that 2019 will be the year of the orangey pinks, guaranteed! Although these colours could seem hard to incorporate, no need to worry – they also pair well with neutral colours and tones for a calming palette and are excellent at emphasising other colours which you can integrate into your space at your own pace.

70s trend

https://www.primark.com/en/homepage https://www.sarahdavison.com.au/projects/manly-residence

This has been around for a while now and had taken a step back for a few years but is on the rise and heading straight for trendy interiors in 2019. You’ll see it in the form of sustic reds, oranges and beiges, carpeted wooden floors, rugs and plenty of fringing. What is great about this particular trend is that you have the freedom to layer and play around with it to see what works for you. Experiment with different colours, textures and shapes from the high street, online and even antique or thrift shops.

Terrazzo

Terrazzo is a confetti type looking pattern, made out of chips of marble, quartz, granite and glass which is set in cement or resin to appear playful and eye catching. Dating all the way back to mid-century design in Italy where it was used for flooring due to its durability (and a short comeback for flooring in the 70s) – it’s here to show its face again 2019. And not just to be used for surfaces, these unique patterns are here for the new year in all sorts of different forms, not only as walls or surfaces but also as prints of shower curtains or even candle holders!

Matte surfaces

http://www.garciacumini.com/products/wall-waiter/ https://www.decoraid.com/blog/best-kitchen-renovation-trends-2019

The use of matte colours creates an incredibly sleek and sophisticated feel to your space which is modern and clean. It’s intriguing due to its silky smooth appearance and clean lines which can mostly be found in kitchen designs. Matte colours are now here to stay, in 2019 you’ll see much fewer white shiny and glossy finishes and more matt and powdery darker ones.

We hope you now have a better idea of what to expect in this coming years hottest interior design trends, if you’ve been inspired or use one of these trends in your own home, please let us know by tagging us or using the hashtag #manomanouk!

Home Renovation Tips on a Budget

Creative Room Dividers

Home 30 November 2018

10 Unique Christmas Trees

If you’re looking for a Christmas tree this season, look no further – we have you covered. Here are our top 10 unique christmas trees to get you feeling festive. These trees will leaf you seeing stars (at the tip of your tree), you’ll be bauble-ing on about them for the rest of December!

Tinsel tree

Prevent getting your tinsel in a twist with this bright and brilliant tree. If you decide to coordinate any other decorations along with this one your whole space will appear magical! Adding some extra shiny baubles or glittery wrapping paper for the presents underneath will completely light up your space for this sparkly time of year.

Super slim tree

A slim line tree is a perfect alternative should you have not much room in your place for a traditional tree. It can fit perfectly in tight spaces, so even if you’re paying loads for a London box flat or are mid in the moving process and there are boxes everywhere – you’re still tree to celebrate this Christmas season, there’s no excuse!

Pre lit tree

A pre-lit tree will save you the fuss of getting your own lights and putting them on yourself. No more worrying that they’re not wrapped around evenly or that you don’t have a range of colours. Jive to all your favourite festive tunes with this tree which technically doubles up as a disco ball all in one!

Half tree

Another space saver – the half tree. Give the illusion of a full one by placing it in a corner of the room. Less mess and the same amount of festive goodness from a full tree. Or, alternatively, if you like things in halves then this is the tree for you. To each their own!

Snowy Tree

Get into the seasonal spirit by finding yourself this frosty number. If there’s no snow on christmas day, it’s ok. There’s snow need to worry, you’ll still have a white Christmas no matter the weather.

Coloured tree

This 2ft treat will add the right pop of colour to any room. If you you have a blue colour coordinated space of your home then it will add a slight festive pop without causing too much of a fur-ss.

Silver tree

This glitzy tree is for lovers of all things silver and shiny. This stunning piece is sure to stand out in your home this Christmas and catch all your guests’ eyes. Get out all your silverware and tinsel for this one, it’s going to have some competition.

Fibre optic

Fibre optic trees? They are as cool as they sound, promise. This means that the tips of the branches light up and switch colours for a more delicate luminous effect. Although, as we are wanting to include some pretty crazy trees in this post, the bottom example tree provides you with ultimate fibre optic goodness – the brightest and most colourful tree around.

Upside down tree

Did you know that you can buy upside down trees? Maybe you’ve learnt something new today, maybe not. Either way, this tree is a super quirky alternative to your traditional right way up green alpine and is sure to bag a few comments. Why not!

Tropical tree

Who said Christmas trees needed to be alpine? If you would much rather be somewhere warmer on the 25th, this tree is your answer. As a plus, there’s less branches to cover meaning less fuss! Don’t go chasing the tropical sun, chase this tropical tree instead.

If any of these trees tickled your leaves, they are all available on our website ManoMano.co.uk, should you be intrigued by this weird and wonderful range. Merry Christmas!

8 Tips to Make Your Tree Last Longer This Christmas

DIY Christmas Tree Shelves – Alternative Christmas Tree

Home 28 November 2018

Home Renovation Tips on a Budget

Renovating your home can get expensive in a hurry. You want the best quality at the best prices but that’s not always easy to find.

The cost of your renovation goes up depending on the room you’re overhauling. Kitchen and bathroom remodels can skyrocket your cost and break your budget.

Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be this way. There are simple, quality, budget-friendly things you can do around your home to up the value and the atmosphere. Take a look at these!

Cost Effective Kitchen Upgrades

Painted Cabinets

Instead of going all out and purchasing new cabinets for your outdated kitchen, bring them up to speed with a couple fresh coats of paint. You’ll start by giving them a good cleaning, a light sanding, and one or two coats of primer to help your chosen color stick better. It’s important to do another very light sanding with fine-grit sandpaper in between color coats to achieve an even, smooth finish.

Hardware Upgrade

Small changes can make a huge impact and a great way to implement this is by simply installing new hardware. Change out the knobs or pulls on your cabinets and drawers. For the best results, be consistent with the finishes. If you decide on oil-rubbed bronze, stick with that for all the new hardware.

Replace Fixtures

Once you’ve changed out all the cabinet hardware, you may notice that it clashes with your current faucet or even the light fixture. Both are fairly simple DIY projects that won’t break the bank. Replacing these items for consistency throughout the room elevates the overall look.

Revive the Flooring

You may be hesitant to replace your old flooring based on what it typically costs but if your old floors are in bad shape, it’s time. Peel-and-stick tiles are a great way to manage this upgrade without spending too much. Be sure to follow the directions carefully for the best results.

DIY Backsplash

The area between your countertops and the bottom of your cabinets is a perfect place to add a little pizzazz. You can create an amazing backsplash out of many different materials including tin, brick, or even heavy-duty crafting foil. If those are a little out of your league, there are also several gorgeous peel-and-stick backsplash options on the market.

Budget-Friendly Bathroom Face Lifts

Fresh Paint

Redoing the walls in a clean, modern color is the fastest way to make a huge impact at the lowest price. All you need is a gallon of paint, a roller, and a couple of hours to completely change the look of your bathroom while leaving the rest of your budget free to cover other upgrades.

Faux Finishes

Adding faux stone to the outside of your bathtub or a peel-and-stick backsplash above the sink co Fresh paint- A clean, modern color can go a long way in completely changing the look of any room. It costs very little but adds a lot to the look and feel of the room.

Increase Storage

Every bathroom could benefit from a little added storage space. Open shelving, a small cabinet hung on one wall or even a small chest of drawers (if you have space) can do wonders for your bathroom.

Mirror Magic

Mirrors reflect light around a room and make it seem bigger and more open. Your bathroom probably already has at least one but adding a full-length mirror on the back of the door or an empty wall is a great, low-cost idea.

Updating Other Rooms

Accent Walls

Bedrooms and living areas can almost always accommodate an accent wall. You can create this with paint or texture, as long as it is different from the other walls. Shiplap, stone, or faux materials are a great way to go.

Area Rugs

Another budget-friendly way to change up a room is through the use of an area rug. These come in so many different sizes, colors and patterns you’re sure to find something that suits your home and your style.

Textile Upgrades

When renovating your home, it’s a good idea to update things like curtains, towels or throw pillows to keep everything consistent. You don’t need to do this all at once but over time you can easily add in a new item here and there.

Outdoor Upgrades

Stain the Deck

If you have a deck, porch, or other wood structure outdoors, it’s important to maintain it and protect it from the weather. Exterior stains provide water and sun protection. It is inexpensive and also greatly improves the look.

Add Greenery

Landscaping is one of the best ways to increase curb appeal for your home but is often pricey. Adding just a few plants or shrubs in strategic places for the most impact will help keep costs down.

Other Landscaping

The cheapest way to boost the look of your yard is to maintain what’s already there. Trim overgrown trees, keep the grass green and mowed and clean up branches or trash. If you need more of an upgrade, many types of gravel can be used as filler and can usually be delivered at a reasonable price. Be sure to edge any graveled areas.

Paint What Needs It

You may not be able to paint the entire outside of your home (although if you can it’s worth it). What you can paint for very little money is your front door, any trim, and even your fence (except for chain-link fencing).

Don’t Break the Bank

Home renovations tend to be stressful and frustrating, often due to the cost and amount of work involved. Don’t let that happen to you! Use these simple, low-cost ideas during your next renovation.

Andrew is a DIYer and founder of SimplyHomeTips.com. He likes to share his experience through detailed guidelines with pictures on home improvement, DIY projects, around-the-house fixing, woodworking, etc.

12 Incredible House Renovation Ideas

Bathroom Renovations – Mistakes to Avoid

Home 16 November 2018

Creative Room Dividers

It’s normal for us to get bored of the same old space we live in every day and will feel the need to switch it up every so often. In this blog post, you’ll find some simple yet creative options to divide up your space, giving you more freedom to move items around how YOU want!

We’ve pieced together a collection of some crazy room dividers to hopefully give you some inspiration to make some yourself!

Plant climber divider

https://www.pinterest.fr/pin/AeGrIow1NBq-oM9S56lPJa_aBGlcU-qkE0Xps_7LQ7Ppzo62iHhGrbg/

This epic DIY involves an embedded planter for your room divider. You could do this either by cutting a slit in your floor or simply by adding your own separate planter to your space, giving the same effect. Whatever works for you! Then, attach metal hooks to the floor and ceiling, making sure that they’re aligned. Thread rope through each pair, making sure that they are parallel, one after the other. Planting a climbing hydrangea vine would be the perfect addition for your climbing divider as it grows vertically very quickly once embedded and produces beautiful flowers even indoors. Make sure to give it lots of sun and water, and you’ll have a vertical plant divider in no time!

Compressing space divider

https://www.ikeahackers.net/2017/08/taac-ikea-room-divider-stuva.html

In this design, the window has been used as a light source to illuminate and give the illusion of a larger room. By merging the two rooms together, this designer has effectively disguised the shared space by breaking them up with the divider, implying that these are two seperate rooms in once space. What a way to maximise your living space!

Glass door divider

https://blog.rhinov.fr/architecture-et-decoration/conseils-deco-verriere-interieur/

A less intrusive way of implementing a room divider is by using windows. This design is super sleek and modern, and would fit perfectly into a newly refurbished, sleek and modern interior. Incorporating sliding doors or windows into the room divider prevents it from splitting the room completely into parts and still leaves you freedom of movement.

Recycling old doors

https://www.pinterest.fr/pin/512214157615775292/

Ever think you’d find a use for an old door? Here’s your answer. Take whatever old doors you have, attach some wheels and a few hinges to their sides and turn them quickly into a room divider. This option isn’t fixed at all, and is able to be moved around however you please. Whether you want a bit of privacy in a corner or completely split the room in half, this option lets you do both.

An atmospheric divider

https://makezine.com/2014/12/06/how-to-twinkling-branches-room-divider/

Another DIY friendly divider is this fairy light branch design. Find yourself some pallet wood, some old branches from your garden and a cheap set of fairy lights to make this gorgeous and original divider. Piece the wood together in the same frame as you would with a door, stick on your branches with some adhesive and once dried wrap around some fairy lights, and there you have it!

Hang a frame

https://designmag.fr/optimisez-espace-avec-cloisons.html

This design would fit in perfectly with a space which has an antique-y feel to it. If you are a fan of vintage finds and artistic pieces, then this one’s for you! Should you be able to get your hands on a large frame, it can easily be hung as a divider which does the job once installed. Not only could you place inside one of your favourite artistic pieces, but also a mirror, or even some beautiful patterned wallpaper.

Multipurpose divider

This simple screen room divider has been upscaled to give it multi functionality. Attaching tight strips of fabric to your screen will permit you to attach light scale items to it such as magazines, newspapers and paper reminders. You could even leave sweet messages around for your loved ones!

We hope you’ve taken some inspiration from us and now have a clearer vision of how you can fit a room divider into your own space. If you make a divider of your own, don’t forget to share it with us with the hashtag #ManoManoUK!

15 Small Space Solutions

How to Decorate Your Rental Home