Design Tips and Things We Just Find Interesting

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Design Tips: Adult AND Kid Friendly Family Spaces

Rockridge Furniture September 19, 2019

We don’t need to have one or the other, you can have both adult & kid friendly family rooms.

Smart Storage Solutions

Storage is important, especially when you have kids. It’s not impossible to have a clean and organized living room when you have kids, you just need smart storage solutions so you can easily tuck away the mess. Storage benches, storage ottomans, coffee table with storage, etc. Storage that blends in with the rest of the motif will flow easier throughout the space.

Bold & Cozy Sofa

Sectionals or chaise lounge sofas have comfy seating options for everyone in the family. Just because they’re cozy, doesn’t mean it needs to look big and bulky. Choose a style with clean lines and a bold and rich fabric. The color and texture of a fabric will enhance your design.

A Touch of Playful Art

Large framed art pieces made by your kids or large-scale colorful artwork can make the space look more laid back, but also elevate your style into a more contemporary look.

Floating Shelves

Floating shelves add a modern touch and extra storage space. It’s a cool and unique way to display your collections.

Fun Accents

Mix and matching your accent pieces will create a relaxed environment that’s open to growing with the family rather than keeping it static. Pairing unexpected items, like modern art work with a vintage family heirloom, brings character and a story to your family room.

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Design Tips: 5 Affordable Ways to Upgrade Your Home

Rockridge Furniture May 28, 2020

We would all love to treat our home with an extravagant makeover, but often it’s not in the budget to splurge on expensive accessories and interior updates. But you’re in luck, we’ve listed the top 5 affordable things you can do to elevate the design in your home.

Cabinet Handles

The handles on your kitchen cabinets, or the handles on your bathroom cabinets, or even the handles on your dresser drawer, make a huge impact in a room! They are small, but you’ll be surprised what changing the handles on your cabinets or doors can do. Switching up the handles will not only elevate the look of your space, but it will upgrade the look and feel of your furniture.

Lighting

Fine tuning the lighting in a room is one of the best ways to elevate the design in your space. Using mirrors to manipulate how natural lighting bounces off the walls, using the color and shape of a lamp shade to impact the brightness of the light, and sticking to only one type of light bulb in a room that requires a few, there are many techniques you can do to influence the light in a room. Get to know your space and experiment with how light and shadow illuminates your room.

Houseplants

Flowers and beautifully potted houseplants can make any room look and feel rich, even the bathroom. Taking the time to put a vase of flowers or a potted plant in your space is the little detail that brings life and color into a room.

Original Artwork

You don’t need to spend thousands of dollars on the next best artist to have a framed piece of art on your wall. All you need to do is think outside of the box, something different than the generic posters you see in the store. Make your art personal, like frame a postcard you bought on your recent travels, or frame a piece of fabric that you love, or enlarge a photograph you took with your phone. A piece of art that tells YOUR story is the best and most expensive type of art.

Large Rugs

Extravagant rooms always include a large and plush rug. It’s luxurious, yet cozy. A large rug also anchors the furniture and creates a cohesive flow in the space. Polyester rugs are affordable, easy to maintain, and can look as expensive as wool rugs.

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Design Tips: Dual Purpose Rooms

Rockridge Furniture May 21, 2020

Since many of us are spending most of our time at home, we are looking to every nook and cranny to make the most out of our space. Some have had to make their living, bedroom, or even dining room into a work station. Here are a few clever design tips on how to create dual purpose rooms without having to sacrifice style or space.

Dress Up Your Office Space

If you’re working from home and your work space needs to also be in the bedroom or living room, it doesn’t need to look like an ordinary office. Dress it up to match the rest of the room. Put a vase of flowers on your desk, hang art or pictures around the work area, or get a more unique, not so ordinary desk. This way, when you’re not working, it just looks like another cozy reading nook or vanity, and not a cold work station.

Multipurpose Shelf

A floating wall shelf not only frees up floor space, but it can double as a vanity or a desk. Just add a stylish accent chair to finish the look. This multipurpose shelf can hang almost anywhere, the kitchen, living room, or bedroom.

Office and Guest Room

If you add a Sleeper or futon into your office, your office can also double as the guest room. Don’t forget to put away the Sleeper or futon into a sofa during the day so it doesn’t take up too much space.

Laundry Room, Craft Room, & Gift Wrapping Station

You don’t need a large laundry space to also have a gift wrapping station or craft room. All you need is an extra long and narrow shelf for your “working” desk and a few cabinets or containers for storage. Make the most out of your laundry room because it’s not like you’re going to be sleeping in there! Who needs space, when you have crafts?

Transform the Guestroom Closet into an Office

Transform the guestroom closet into your new office. Sacrifice the storage spot in the guestroom closet and turn it into your workspace. This goes for any closet that you’re not using. Take some time to declutter and organize, and you might find yourself a new office space. All you need is a few more shelves and a comfy chair. You can even paint the inside of the closet a different color so it can really pop.

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DIY Disinfectant Solution for Your Sofa

Rockridge Furniture May 14, 2020

Now is the best time to disinfect your furniture, especially your sofa. While your sofa may look clean, it’s definitely not clean. Spraying a disinfectant solution on your sofa will help sterilize your sofa and keep it smelling fresh.
Here is the step-by-step process on how to make and apply DIY Disinfectant Solution for your sofa:

First, vacuum your sofa. If the cushions are removable, take them off your sofa and set them aside. Vacuum the seat and back portion, not forgetting each little crevice, especially the corners. Also vacuum the top, bottom, arms, and sides of the sofa.

Next, vacuum the seat and back cushions. You will want to eliminate as much dirt, dust, and debris before spraying on the disinfectant solution.

Then, apply the DIY disinfectant spray. See below on how to make and apply the disinfectant based on the material of your sofa.

Disinfectant Spray for your Fabric Sofa

Mix 2 cups of rubbing alcohol and 1 cup of water into a spray bottle. Test out the spray bottle on another piece of fabric or in the sink to make sure your spray bottle is in the mist setting.

If you haven’t already, remove the seat and back cushions from the sofa. Start from one side of the sofa and hold the spray bottle’s nozzle about seven inches away. Working your way from the top, then to the bottom (the footboard), evenly distribute the disinfectant, while gradually moving to the other end of the sofa. Don’t forget the top of the arms and sides of the sofa.

Follow the same steps when applying the disinfectant to the seat and back cushions. Allow to air dry.

Bonus: This disinfectant spray also helps clean some stains. Apply to the stain and wipe with a clean cloth.

Disinfectant Spray for your Microfiber Sofa

First, check the cleaning tag on your sofa for special care instructions. Microfiber uses codes to indicate how to clean your sofa.

“W” means water safe. Mix water, a few drops of dish soap, and 1 teaspoon of baking soda into a spray bottle.

“S” means to clean with a dry-cleaning solvent. Pour rubbing alcohol into a spray bottle. Test the rubbing alcohol on a small section before spraying it all over the sofa to see how it will affect the microfiber.

“S-W” means solvent and water safe.

Once the disinfectant is made, test out the spray bottle on another piece of fabric or in the sink to make sure your spray bottle is in the mist setting. If you can, remove the seat and back cushions from the sofa. Next, moving through sections, lightly spray the disinfectant onto the sofa and wipe gently with a soft sponge.

Do the same thing, but on the seat and back cushions. Allow to air dry.

Disinfectant for your Leather Sofa

Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a large container, like a bucket or a pot. Soak a microfiber cloth into the solution and then wring out as much liquid as possible.

If you can, take the seat and back cushions off of the sofa. Using the disinfectant solution, wipe down your leather sofa, working through sections, so you don’t miss any surface area. Next, wipe the disinfectant on the seat and back cushions. Then, go back with a soft, dry towel to wipe away the solution on both the sofa and the cushions.

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Do’s and Don’ts: How to find the Ultimate Lounging Sofa

Rockridge Furniture May 7, 2020

We seem to be spending a lot of time on our sofa these days. If you wish you had a better sofa to nap on or just want a more comfortable place to lay peacefully and relax, check out our top 5 Do’s and Don’ts in finding the ultimate lounging sofa:

DO think about where you will want to rest your head while lounging on your sofa. This will determine what type of sofa arm is best for you. A low flat arm or low rolled arm, also known as an English sofa, is the best option for you.

DON’T even dare to try a high, slim armed sofa.

DO choose a soft and smooth to the touch fabric, like velvet.

DON’T choose a leather sofa. Leather looks sophisticated and clean, but it is not the best option for skin to leather action. Also, stay away from tufting on fabric and leather sofas, unless you don’t mind laying your body on bumps and craters.

DO look for a deep seat sofa. You will want your seat deep enough that it grants you enough room to sit back, put your feet up, and relax.

DON’T buy a sofa with a seat depth that forces you to sit upright, it’s not the ideal position for ultimate lounging. The average inside depth of a sofa that is NOT considered deep is 20 to 24 inches.

DO give thought to getting a sofa with a chaise. A chaise creates the ideal situation for a peaceful and restful afternoon nap.

DON’T challenge yourself with a curved sofa. You don’t want to put your tired body through an obstacle course.

DO consider a down, feather wrapped foam seat and back cushion. You want a seat and back core that’s not only comfortable, but can also support your body.

DON’T purchase a firm foam seat core. If your body doesn’t sink into it, just say no.

Do you need a new sofa?

We’ve got tons of selections, from fabrics to leathers, sectionals and sleepers, down or firm cushions, the possibilities are endless!

Shop Now

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Elevate Your Outdoor Living Space

Rockridge Furniture April 24, 2020

Now that warmer days are finally here, you don’t need to be stuck inside! Elevate your outdoor living space with these design tips:

Outdoor Rug

Start from the ground up! If your outdoor flooring is not as appealing as you would like it to be, the easiest and quickest solution is to cover it up with an outdoor rug. Plus, an outdoor rug is more resilient to stains from dirt and mud. If it gets dirty, you can hose down your outdoor rug without worrying about mold and mildew.

Mood Lighting

You’ll be surprised what a string of twinkling lights can do. Hang them from the porch ceiling or string them around a tree or on the fence that surrounds your outdoor space. The lighting will definitely spark up the ambiance.

Al Fresco Dining

Longer days and warmer evenings calls for alfresco dining. Whether it’s a big or small space, incorporate a table so you can dine outside.

Lounging Area

Whether you have a large backyard or a small balcony patio, designating a comfortable seating area is key when designing your outdoor space. Lounge on an outdoor sectional, or if you’re limited on space, a charming garden bench, a hammock, or a cozy outdoor rocking chair will also do.

Accents

Outdoor accents, like lanterns, lights, garden stools, etc., helps create a cozier outdoor vibe. Adding textures, with throw blankets and toss pillows, makes such an inviting space that you may never want to go back inside.

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Brighten Up Your Space

Rockridge Furniture April 17, 2020

Now is the best time to brighten up your space! Sometimes, all we need is some fresh air and natural lighting to cheer us up. But let’s face it, natural lighting does not flood every room of your house. Luckily, there are a few tricks you can do to brighten up a dark and small space.

No Clutter

Sometimes all you need is some light cleaning and your space will feel lighter and look brighter.

Mirrors

Especially in a small space, mirrors reflect light and they make the space appear much bigger. If it’s possible, place a mirror parallel to a window to reflect the natural light shining through. Other places to hang a mirror are over mantles, over couches, over side tables, etc. They are like windows that open up a room.

Light Colored Rugs

Dark flooring can sometimes make a room appear dark and heavy, especially if there aren’t enough windows to bring in the beautiful sunshine. A light and bright area rug can quickly solve this problem!

Clean Your Windows

The days are finally getting longer, so let’s soak in as much natural lighting as we can. Clean, not just the inside of your windows, but the outside of your windows as well. More light will brightly shine through when there is less dirt, dust, and streaks on your windows.

Houseplants

Sometimes a couple of low-maintenance houseplants that require very minimal lighting is just the trick you need to brighten up your space. Houseplants, like the snake plant and the spider plant, can grow and survive with low and indirect sunlight.

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Spring Design Trends: Wall Colors

Rockridge Furniture April 10, 2020

Sometimes all it takes to change the look and feel of the room is to paint the walls a new color. Color inspires the mood and can even spark new ideas on styles and designs for your space. Check out our top 5 favorite wall color trends for this spring:

Ice Blue

A calming cooling blue, much different than a bold royal blue. Ice Blue paint, that resembles a bright and clear California summer sky, will refresh any room, creating an airy, light and crisp environment.

Enchanted Forest Green

A timeless classic, the Enchanted Forest Green anchors well with a traditional style design or can be modernized when mixed with black and gold accents.

Blush Pink

Blush Pink is a charming alternative to white or beige. A faint pink color can be dressed up with jewel toned furniture and accessories or it can be muted by pairing it with more neutral colors like taupe or earthy greens.

Purpley-Browns

A brilliant mix of eggplant and taupe, Purpley-Browns create an elegant yet moody shade that brings drama to any room.

Thunder Grey

We’re going bold this year with a more statement grey, rather than a light subtle grey. Thunder grey fits into any style, it goes well with traditional pieces, it can also blend in with a rustic design, or it can pop with a modern setting.

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Our Favorite Design Tips

Rockridge Furniture April 3, 2020

Are you thinking about redesigning your space? Check out our top 5 favorite design tips. They are simple, but smart, and can make a huge impact in your home!

Invest in Pieces

Whether it’s an art piece, like a sculpture or a painting, or a piece of furniture, like a custom sofa or dining room table, invest in at least two items a year and in ten years you will have 20 marvelous things in your home.

Go Bold in Small Spaces

Embrace the small size and paint the walls with bright and bold colors or patterned wallpaper. Go for a charming light fixture, like a chandelier, and decorate with fancy mirrors. Use your small room to make a statement.

Upholster Antique Furniture with Modern Fabric

Antique furniture comes with it’s own charm, but let your personality shine through by re-upholstering it with fabric that better suits you. Patterned fabric or green velvet, the choice is yours!

Large Scale Art

Displaying small groups of artwork or photographs are a big trend in decorating, but why not make a bigger impact by choosing one large painting or photograph to anchor a room. Large scale art brings together the overall look of the space. If you’re on a tight budget, try framing patterned wall paper or bright fabric.

Nature

A vase of flowers, a centerpiece of succulents, or house plants that improve the air quality of your home is a beautiful way to enhance any room. Adding nature into the space brings in life and colors.

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Stay Home and Organize!

Rockridge Furniture March 27, 2020

Have you been staring at the stack of mail on your desk, or that pile of clothes on your dresser, or what about that drawer filled with miscellaneous things that you’ve said you were going to organize since 2015? Now’s the time to tackle all those projects! Here a few tips to get you started:

Focus on a Room

Do not try to clean and organize your entire home in one day. Focus on one room at a time. Declutter, organize, then clean the space.

Purchase Storage Containers AFTER Decluttering

Buy storage containers to help you organize, like bins, boxes, and baskets but only AFTER you declutter the space. By doing this, you will see what type of containers you need, how many you need, and where to place them. Don’t forget to measure the space before you purchase your storage!

What is Your Goal?

Having a goal or two for each room will keep you from feeling overwhelmed. It can be to organize the pantry in the kitchen or donate shoes and clothes from your closet or shred old paperwork in your office. Goals will help you focus on what really needs to get done first.

Define Your Space

Appreciate your space for what it is and take advantage for what it offers. This is especially true for small spaces, embrace the small and use every inch of space wisely!

The Magic of Storage Consoles

Storage Consoles come in all shapes and sizes. Depending on their style, they can be placed in the living room, bedroom, dining room, or entry way. They help organize multimedia, display decor, and feature open and closed shelving.

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Refresh Your Space

Rockridge Furniture March 20, 2020

With social distancing being the new norm, it will take some time and adjustments to get used to staying home. A great way to start is to refresh the space you will spend the most time in. Here a few ideas to get you started:

Start with a Blank Slate

It’s all about editing. Remove all your accessories and place them in a corner. You can do this room by room. Then, carefully and thoughtfully,re-accessorize the room. Think about function, style, and stay away from clutter. Place items in different areas than before or even in different rooms!

Rearrange Furniture Layout

Experiment with different furniture configurations, even if it’s as little as moving one accent chair to the other side of the couch or rearranging picture frames. You’ll be surprised of the difference it makes.

Repaint, Refinish, or Repurpose

Sometimes all you need is a new coat of paint for your space to feel refreshed. It can be the same paint color or something completely different, new paint always makes a room look brand new.

Repaint a wall or refinish a piece of furniture or repurpose an old bookcase into a bar shelf or entryway bench with storage. This definitely gives you a new project for the new year!

Add Texture

Texture adds personality and style. Add texture through accessories like throw blankets, pillows, rugs, window treatment, etc. A knubby blanket or a faux fur rug can do wonders for your space.

Houseplants

New houseplants are essential when breathing new life into a space. If you already have houseplants, switch out the pots with new ones.

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We don’t need to have one or the other, you can have both adult & kid friendly family rooms.

Smart Storage Solutions

Bold & Cozy Sofa

A Touch of Playful Art

Floating Shelves

Fun Accents

Cabinet Handles

Lighting

Houseplants

Original Artwork

Large Rugs

Dress Up Your Office Space

Multipurpose Shelf

Office and Guest Room

Laundry Room, Craft Room, & Gift Wrapping Station

Transform the Guestroom Closet into an Office

Disinfectant Spray for your Fabric Sofa

Disinfectant Spray for your Microfiber Sofa

Disinfectant for your Leather Sofa

Do you need a new sofa?

We’ve got tons of selections, from fabrics to leathers, sectionals and sleepers, down or firm cushions, the possibilities are endless!

Outdoor Rug

Mood Lighting

Al Fresco Dining

Lounging Area

Accents

No Clutter

Mirrors

Light Colored Rugs

Clean Your Windows

Houseplants

Ice Blue

Enchanted Forest Green

Blush Pink

Purpley-Browns

Thunder Grey

Invest in Pieces

Go Bold in Small Spaces

Upholster Antique Furniture with Modern Fabric

Large Scale Art

Nature

Focus on a Room

Purchase Storage Containers AFTER Decluttering

What is Your Goal?

Define Your Space

The Magic of Storage Consoles

Start with a Blank Slate

Rearrange Furniture Layout

Repaint, Refinish, or Repurpose

Add Texture

Houseplants

Added to Cart