Creating the perfect space isn’t just about decoration. It involves the balance of textures, shapes, finishes, and arguably the most important factor: colour. Colour theory is an interesting concept.  Certain hues can evoke particular feelings and moods, and colour can even affect primary sensory functions. This is why incorporating colour theory when designing a space is important. But there’s an art behind matching colours for a harmonious result – colours combinations should be visually pleasing, relaxing, or exciting to the mind at view.

All interior spaces have a purpose. For example, the bedroom should be a place of refuge where you can relax, unwind, and calm a racing mind. It is imperative to get the colour scheme right to ensure a peaceful night’s sleep. Along with the hue (colour), it is important to consider depth of colour when creating a certain ambience. Shades and tones that are too dark can make the room feel oppressive and heavy, whilst having a room that is too light can feel stark and sterile. An injection of colour – either with change of hue, tone, or tint – is necessary to balance all spaces efficiency and achieve the desired visual and mental result. 

Of course, the colours chosen will also depend on the occupant of the space. For example, a master suite may require more muted tones, whilst a more vibrant colour palette may suit a child’s bedroom. There are also other things to consider when choosing the right bedroom colours – such as room orientation! For example, a south-facing room receives sunlight throughout most of the day. For this reason, you might want to add cool hues and accent colours such as blues and greens. For a north-facing room that receives little sunlight, it’s beneficial to warm up the space visually with the addition of colours such as muted reds (a strong red in the bedroom can imply negative energy), soft yellow, or orange. 

Colour Theory Concepts

There are three tried-and-tested approaches to colour that are commonly used when choosing supporting hues for a space. These are analogous (colours that sit next to each other on the colour wheel), complimentary (colours that sit opposite each other on the colour wheel), and monochromatic (one single colour used with differing tints and shades). These colour concepts and combinations can be used with great results, creating a harmonious and serene bedroom. 

Analogous

A successful analogous scheme can benefit from a neutral base colour, such as beige or taupe. Neutral colours create feelings of warmth and comfort thanks to their low saturation of colour. These colours are uncomplicated and easy for the brain to process. Include varying tints of beige and taupe, along with off-white, to create depth within the main hue. The addition of colour accents such as oranges, greens, and yellows will add a certain vibrancy to the space due to the psychological effects of mixing cool and warm hues. 

These hues can be softened with a tonal difference from the main colour. Try adding peach oranges, soft yellows, and light botanical greens to lift the space without creating too much energy. These colours invite feelings of self-confidence and vitality, finishing off the mood with a cheerful yet peaceful ambience. Add natural fibres and green foliage, along with artwork alluding to nature to create a truly natural look. 

The below image shows hues with a low saturation colour, such as beige, which are uncomplicated and easy to process visually. Accessorise with colourful accents to finish the space.

Various tones of peach have been used as the main secondary hue in the below bedroom, with greens and the occasional soft yellow, along with nature-inspired naturals to create an analogous colour scheme.

Complimentary

Another concept to try is a complimentary scheme, where the colours sit opposite each other on the colour wheel. Because of what can be an extreme contrast of colours, a great base for this concept would be a colour such as grey. 

Grey is seen as an achromatic hue (without colour) and is the perfect balance between black and white, making it extremely versatile. Viewing grey has been known to create a balanced mind, which lends itself well to a bedroom environment. The addition of pastel or muted shades of pinks and greens create a subtle, delicate, ethereal finish whilst enhancing vitality.

When choosing complimentary colours for a bedroom, try to avoid hues with high saturation, such as reds and very dark greens. These colours are too in conflict with each other to calm a space and will drag the ambience down, resulting in feelings of anger, despair, and confusion. 

Grey and pink have been used in the below image to create a relaxed, romantic, and inviting scene for the bedroom.

The below image shows how an injection of green, along with a pink and grey finish can result in a complimentary colour concept with aesthetically pleasing results.

Monochromatic

A monochromatic scheme involves using one hue as the main colour, and adding complexity to the space by using tints and tones to create depth and interest.

Blue is a pleasing choice for a monochromatic scheme as the hue can differ greatly, depending on the tone added. It can seem weightless when used in a lighter capacity, immediately bringing to mind blue skies and fluffy clouds. A darker shade adds a stark contrast, while changing the scene entirely and employing feelings of thought and decisiveness. Overall, blue is known to soothe, cool, and calm the mind, making it a great option for a bedroom where the aim is always peaceful sleep.  

Art imitating nature is always successful, so monochromatic blue balanced with a stark white is a winning combination. The below image shows how this is possible. The monochromatic colour scheme easily suggests the lightness of air, immediately relaxing the senses.

Whilst the use of darker shades within the hue can be used to create a completely different result, deeper tones can produce a depth within the space – all with the use of one single colour.

If you haven’t heard of biophilic design, now’s the time to familiarise as it’s quickly becoming the next big design trend! As for what it means? Simply a connection to nature. This is achieved by the inclusion of certain materials, objects, and design methods into the interior space to allude to nature in your surroundings, with or without the physical elements of nature.   

We spend a lot of our time indoors – 90% of our lives on average, in fact! This has increased even more in the last couple of years due to the pandemic and local restrictions that forced us inside for days, weeks, or months at a stretch. Biologically, we have an innate desire for connection to nature, and this lack of outdoor exposure has left a profound void in our lives, affecting our overall wellness. Biophilic design can help us fill that void within the interiors, thereby enhancing us both mentally and physically.

A biophilic-inspired interior is known to not only calm the mind, but also has many other coveted health benefits such as heightened cognitive ability, improved memory and concentration, and enhanced overall mood. It also has physical health benefits such as increased respiratory functions, lower pulse rates, a healthier gut, and fewer headaches. Who wouldn’t want all this just from making changes to one’s living space? And the good news is that it’s not as hard as it seems!

Inviting nature into an interior space can be done in many ways. Indoor plants, for example, are an obvious choice for use within a biophilic design. Not only are they aesthetically pleasing, but they also cleanse the air with their ability to remove harmful toxins and create more oxygen. Varieties such as rubber plants, peace lilies, and bamboo palms can give the best results. Creating a biophilic interior that will improve health and well-being involves the addition of certain essential components – even a few of these key elements will help improve the overall wellness of the occupant.

Visual Connection to Nature

Incorporate a visual connection to nature with a view of nature or plants, either external or internally. Try organising furniture (such as desks or beds) to face the window or add potted plants in carefully placed positions to bring nature into direct view. In the below image, the desk has been positioned with ample views of nature. This placement can enhance concentration and focus, along with reducing blood pressure.

The inclusion of the colours of nature – green, blue, and brown – is also an easy way to achieve a visual connection to nature. These hues can be added in various shades and tones to create a depth of colour to suggest the changing shades of seasons.

In the below image, the use of green in this setting is used in tonal form in reference to nature. This immediately calms nerves and sets a serene scene. Along with the addition of indoor plants, it creates a complete visual connection to nature.

Non-Visual Connection to Nature 

A non-visual connection to nature involves allowing for the sounds of nature to be heard (such as chirping birds, wind rustling leaves on trees, or running water), along with the scent of nature. These can be either authentic or artificial – as long as the subsequent result still refers to nature.  

Simply leaving a window open invites sounds and smells (think: freshly cut grass), whilst fresh flowers and strong-smelling citrus fruits or a diffuser with essential oils (with strong floral scents such as lavender or geranium) will spread the scent continuously when placed in common areas.

Variable Airflow

Ensure fresh air wherever possible, either through the opening of windows or doors, or the installation of a mechanical ventilation system to move the air at a steady pace. This is a simple and effective way to encourage cleaner interior air for a healthier mind.

Natural and Diffused Light

The management of light can be used to mimic nature’s rhythms and create the right mood or ambience. Allow for ample natural light in the interior space during daylight hours and use diffused light in the afternoon or evenings when you want to simply relax.  

Try leaving the curtains slightly open when going to bed as this allows natural light to enter the bedroom at the natural wake time, which helps regulate the circadian rhythm, resulting in an enhanced and energised mood throughout the day. Diffused light can be achieved through a sheer curtain or a soft-white light bulb diffused through a fabric or frosted lampshade and strategically positioned in the space to bring in the right ambience.

Presence of Water

The sound or view of water is extremely beneficial in reducing blood pressure and pulse rate. The addition of water features directly outside an interior space can help achieve this.

Plant and Animal Motifs

Nature can easily be added to a space with finishes and objects. Try adding plants and animals in the form of artwork – either as photorealist or abstract pictures, or as plant or flower motif tiles in wet rooms. Wallpapers can be used with impressive effects, bringing the wall to life. The addition of figurines and sculptures is also another great way to add an injection of nature into the interior. 

Material Connection to Nature

Add wood or natural stone flooring, along with untreated wood or natural marble, wherever possible. To bring in a softer texture, include furnishings made from wool, cotton, or cashmere. The nature of the material and the contrast of hard materials against soft fibres work together to bring feelings of comfort and ease. In the below image, the use of hardwood flooring finishes off and brings together all the biophilic elements of the space.

Other Elements to Consider

There are other factors that can be included, although these can be slightly more difficult to achieve. It includes the creation of refuge spaces by creating nooks and quiet areas for individuals to unwind in. The ‘allure of mystery’ is another element that can be considered. This effect can be achieved through the inclusion of partitions and semi-transparent window fittings.

The first few weeks of a newborn’s life are fleeting times. Preserve these precious moments by picking the perfect photographer who can take your artistic vision to the next level.

1. Mahvin Photography

Mahvin Haghighatjoo is the go-to newborn photographer in Dubai and there’s no doubting why – her work is absolutely stunning. From classic Disney scenes to fairy woodland arrangements, adorable jungle safari sets, and more, Mahvin can put any vision to reality with her creative use of costumes, props, and backdrops. Her eye for composition and knack for lighting make her the perfect photographer to preserve precious moments that the family will cherish for a lifetime.

Mahvin Haghighatjoo, @mahvinphotography, Office 1804, Level 18, Fraser Suites, Sidra Tower, Sheikh Zayed Road, 050 643 3736, [email protected] 

Source: Mahvin Photography

2. The Photography Co

With experience in the UAE spanning more than a decade, The Photography Co is a team of leading photographers that specialises in a wide range of photography services. Whether it’s for events, fashion, or babies, this collective of talented individuals provides amazing shots that capture any moment superbly. 

The Photography Co, @thephotographyco.ae, Studio 1001, Grosvenor Business Tower, Barsha Heights, 04 514 9896, [email protected] 

3. Zoom In Photography

Zoom In Photography is a family-run business that brings happiness to other families. It takes pride in being able to document a child’s journey – from the mother’s pregnancy to a child’s graduation, the team behind Zoom In can capture life’s biggest milestones. Time and convenience is highly valued as well, with its on-location photography packages available at your convenience.

Zoom In Photography, @zoomindxb, Office 506, Level 5, The Icon Tower, Barsha Heights, 055 310 9333, [email protected]

4. Maria Mendez Photography

Maria Mendez is an artist in every sense of the word. She is able to project innocence and joy in her photographs through whimsical settings and minimalist themes. Through artistic use of light and focus, the photographer is able to capture a newborn’s most candid moments. 

Maria Mendez Photography, @mariamendez_photography, Meydan South Villas, 056 115 2831, [email protected] 

5. Sasha Gow Photography

Sasha Gow is a Dubai-based photographer who boasts an extensive portfolio of maternity, cake smash, and family photography, but she’s got her heart set on capturing newborns. The first few weeks of a baby’s life can slip away quickly, so Sasha believes in taking only the best photos for the family. With her skill set that utilises natural light and studio setting, new parents can rest assured that their baby is in good hands. 

Sasha Gow Photography, @sashagowphotography, Cluster X, JLT, 050 175 7120, [email protected]

6. You+Baby Studio 

Headed by an amazing team of women, You+Baby Studio is a Dubai-based photography team that specialises in newborn, maternity, and family photography. Their modern, sophisticated style combined with creative knowledge of lighting makes their portraits a cut above the rest. 

You+Baby Studio, @youbabystudio, Studio 1016, Churchill Tower 1, Business Bay, 058 518 0036, [email protected] 

7. Aleksandra Mandic Photography

Aleksandra Mandic is passionate about capturing the most important moments of your family’s life. She prides herself in designing custom scenes perfect for capturing the magic of the newborn’s first few weeks. With her crisp and colourful shots, every family will have quality keepsakes to treasure for years and years to come. 

Aleksandra Mandic Photography, @aleksandra_mandic_photography, Ugly Duckling Studio DMCC, Office 404, Cluster C, Gold Crest Executive Tower, JLT, 050 846 7326, [email protected] 

8. Gaga Photography Studio

Ghazal Abdullah, more widely known in the industry as Gaga, is highly driven by her passion for family connections. She also always aims to preserve every priceless moment with your newborn through her talent in photography. Gaga has a sizable body of work that comprises projects in tandem with social and environmentally themed organisations as well as maternity, cake smash, and family photography. 

Gaga Photography Studio, @gaga_photography, Office 1105, Fifty One Tower, Business Bay, 056 415 4624, [email protected] 

9. Loomi Photography

Lama Kabbani has been a photographer for over a decade, and her broad experience is reflected in the way she conducts her photography sessions. Not only does she convert the deep connection of every parent and child through her work, but she also offers a fully equipped studio sure to suit any theme that a family fancies.

Loomi Photography, @loomiphotography, Office 404, Gold Crest Executive Tower, Cluster C, JLT, 055 312 2355, [email protected] 

10. Mirrorless Photography

Sohail Asim and Suma Asim are a father-daughter team with a combined photography experience of over 25 years. From a baby’s first days to their first steps and beyond, this accomplished team has the ability to help you preserve your child’s every milestone in beautiful photographs.  

Mirrorless Photography, @mirrorless.babystudio, 1559 Tamani Arts Tower, Business Bay, 055 564 3954, [email protected]

If there’s one takeaway from Zanna Roberts Rassi’s recent appearance on The Drew Barrymore Show, it’s that head-to-toe purple is surprisingly flattering. The celebrity stylist (effortlessly) sported a suit made of wide wale corduroy in honour of Very Peri, a periwinkle shade selected by Pantone as Colour of the Year 2022 because it “encourages courageous creativity and imaginative expression”. But while the hue is sure to suit a spectrum of skin tones – already making it popular across the fashion and beauty industries – we can’t help but debate its suitability in the world of interiors. Enter: Pallavi Dean, Founder and Creative Director of boutique interior design studio Roar, for her take on this inquisitive “It” colour.

On Pantone’s pick of Very Peri:

“I feel the Pantone Colour of the Year 2022 taps into a greater movement that places emphasis on personal growth and well-being. Here, colour is used to stimulate our senses while soothing our bodies and our minds. It’s also a symbol of our time and the hybrid world that we currently live in, which flawlessly switches between online and offline.”

On the spaces best suited to Very Peri:

“Pantone tells us that, with Very Peri, it has created a colour that ‘displays a spritely, joyous attitude and dynamic presence’ while reflecting ‘the global innovation and transformation taking place’. In my view, this makes it the perfect hue for a study, a playroom, or a chill-out area – in other words, any space that is designed to promote inspiration, fun, and relaxation.”

On how to incorporate Very Peri into the home:

“I would always recommend starting small, subtly introducing the colour through curtains, cushions, or other elements of soft furnishing, for example. Another easy way to incorporate a new and untested colour in your home is to paint a wall or a segment of a wall – maybe even a door! – to create a visual contrast without overdoing it. And for those of you who are feeling a little bolder, you can experiment further and invest in a beautiful statement piece of furniture to create an unexpected focal point in your interior.”

On using colour psychology when designing spaces:

“Colour is paramount to any interior design scheme. I see it as the glue that brings a project together and gives it consistency, but more importantly, it’s increasingly being used as a way to influence people’s mood. That’s something we’ve been exploring at Roar for a while now, especially as improving the users’ experience through our designs is at the core of what we do.”

On what boosts her own level of creativity:

“I get inspired by all sorts of places and things. Designers are curious beings – we are people who can never switch off our creativity. I think of myself as an antennae, ever ready to tune into the inspiration from a book I’m reading, a place I’ve visited, a walk in nature, or simply listening to my own stillness post-mediation. All these impressions – whether they be triggered by a certain colour, texture, or shape – will consciously (or otherwise) inform my work.”

Sustainability as a way of life has several interpretations and perspectives. That being said, it is important to understand its meaning to correctly apply it in our lives. The Oxford Dictionary definition of sustainability is “the avoidance of the depletion of natural resources in order to maintain an ecological balance”. This means we do not use up the resources that our future generations will need later.

Another definition I came across is this one from Investopedia: “Sustainability is most often defined as meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. It has three main pillars: economic, environmental, and social. These three pillars are informally referred to as people, planet, and profits.” What I love about this definition is that it also considers the money we spend, along with the environment and future generations to come.

Fighting consumerism is a constant battle. We are always tempted to buy more and buy better. When spending our money, we need to be mindful of what we spend it on, so that it can be better used for the more important things in life like education, health, and recreation. If all people bought only what they needed, made that last, and bought less, this planet would be a happier place. 

Here’s How You Can Green Your Home Storage

When decluttering and organising a home, you should be aware of what can be donated, repurposed, and recycled. In my experience, many homes already have solutions that can solve many storage problems – they just haven’t been recognised. Here are six tips to help recognise and create storage solutions that are sustainable. 

1. Reuse Storage Containers

Be aware of all containers, baskets, and bins in the home. Are there some items that are not really being used to their full potential? Can some be moved to a different cupboard or room where they would make more sense? Often, we buy storage containers for one specific reason. However, as we change over time, our homes change too. The reason you bought that storage item might no longer exist, and it could be repurposed elsewhere.

For example, I might have bought an attractive basket to store my daughter’s toys in the living room and, now that she no longer plays with those toys, I would rather use the same basket in the hallway to store the family sports equipment. Similarly, you might have containers, say, in the kitchen that you no longer need, as you bought some new bins for your fridge. You could take the old ones and reuse them in the bathroom to keep toiletries sorted.  

2. Repurpose Furniture

Are the moveable furniture items being used to their full potential? Are those set of drawers being used regularly or for long-term storage? Can you move some furniture into another room or space where it will be better utilised?  Some cube storage units can be flipped on their side to create a different look and function. Maybe a set of drawers can be moved from one room to another where it can be better used. Before buying new storage cabinets, analyse what is already in the home. Before throwing old furniture out, check if there is a way that it can be repurposed to provide better storage elsewhere in the home. 

3. Buy Neutral Colours

When buying storage items, buy containers that are neutral in colour – clear, white, cream, grey, brown, or black. You might be tempted to buy something with a pop of colour to suit your current aesthetic. However, over time, this might change. And if your storage containers are neutral, they can be kept in a space longer without clashing with the colour scheme. They can also be moved around to different areas of the home, fitting in easily with the surroundings. 

When buying hidden storage like containers and bins that go inside cupboards, keep all the colours – preferably white or transparent – identical if possible. This will make the cupboard or cabinet appear calm as the colours are monotone. When buying visual storage items like baskets on display, buy neutral colours or natural textures like wood or grass that can fit in any room you have. Doing this will allow you to keep these items for longer, saving you money to spend on décor rather than storage items. 

4. Stick to a Budget 

You can find storage items in almost any home store nowadays. Plastic bins, fabric boxes, and natural baskets are available in most shops at various prices. Let’s say you’re buying a bin for your kitchen pantry. This bin has one purpose: to store your kitchen goods. However, you can spend three times the money on a similar container from a high-end store compared to a budget store. There is no logical reason to spend more money on an item that performs the same function as the cheaper item. 

Fortunately, most storage items are neutral-hued, so there is very little difference to the look of the item. Storage items that are on display do require a bit more attention as you want it to look good in your home. With some knowledge of where to find these, you will be surprised at the price difference of the same wicker basket or any fancy container from one store to the next. 

5. Label Only if Needed

Many people promote labelling containers all over the home so that their family members know exactly where everything goes. This is very helpful for some areas, especially if you have a large family and things like toys, school items, and clothing get mixed up easily. Labelling also helps maintain storage systems, as everyone knows where to put things back after using them. 

However, if you are in a small household, knowing where things go becomes a habit quickly. The problem with labelling all containers is it limits the use of the storage box. Make sure labels are not too specific, and address what you always have in the home. For example, a “spaghetti” container is good if you always have spaghetti, but not good if you only buy it sporadically. If you want to reuse containers elsewhere or for different food items, then a label can be limiting. Be mindful of what labels are necessary for organising your home. 

6. Think Green 

When storing items, think about what you buy and how environmentally friendly it is. Can it be recycled, or can you use it for a long time? To be sustainable, constantly remind yourself of where our unwanted items go – the majority end up in landfills. Find ways to reduce what you throw away. Donate or give away old storage items. You will be surprised how many people appreciate such items. 

If you get bored of your storage containers, repurpose them for use elsewhere around the home instead of buying more. Painting them is a quick solution for a change of colour. Spray paint is easy to buy and refreshes visual storage items instantly. When you do throw away containers, bags, and bins, put them in the recycling bin if possible. Be mindful about the waste your home creates and minimise it as much as you can. This is the easiest way to help protect our planet. 

Follow Fern McGahey from Calm The Clutter on Instagram and Facebook, or visit www.calmtheclutternow.com if you want to learn more about home organisation.

We are wired to feel calm and relaxed when surrounded by nature. By decorating your home with plants, you can not only change the mood of your house, but also how you feel. Did you know scientists have proven that houseplants improve concentration and productivity by 15%? Stress levels have also been found to decrease when surrounded by plants. 

Through the process of photosynthesis, plants clean the air by removing toxins. They also release oxygen, which helps us sleep. Some plants in particular release oxygen at night – think: succulents, snake plants, and orchids. Besides the health benefits of having plants in your home, there are many other reasons why you should get some greenery going on in the house. Not only are plants an economical decor solution, but they also speak to the soul and make life interesting. 

This quote resonates with me, because my garden speaks directly to my soul, making me feel happy and calm. Having just a few houseplants can create the same effect. They are happiness that is right at our hands.

Calm the Home with Plants

Over the last 12 years of moving homes around Dubai, I have learnt a lot about what plants work for me and my home. I have also learnt quick and simple ways to make plants add to the aesthetic value of a room, asides from harnessing its health benefits. Here are my five top tips on how to get greenery that works for you in your home.

1. Have at least two or three plants in a room.

Have a good look around your home. Which empty spaces can be served better with plants? Overall, I recommend having at least two or three plants in each room. Scan each and identify places where plants could go. Start in the living room, and think about where you could feature plants that would catch your eye as you walk in. 

Remember, you can get plants of all sizes and heights, and even use hanging baskets. Bathrooms should have at least one plant in it. This helps to soften all the tiling used in a bathroom. It should be a place where you can relax as having plants will help create the ambience. In the bedroom, look if there is space next to the bed or a spot where a larger plant can go on the floor. Bedrooms need plants to nurture our sleep and soften our mood.

2. Choose real and artificial plants.

Some people steer away from having plants in their homes because they worry that they can’t look after them properly. Being knowledgeable about which plants are low maintenance is helpful, and using artificial plants is an amazing solution for those of us who do not have green fingers.

Believe it or not, it is perfectly okay to use artificial plants to bring greenery into your home. In the past, this was often frowned upon, but ironically, it’s now trending. Designers are coming up with authentic-looking plants that give the same feel and mood to a room – just like the real thing. It has also been proven that even pictures of plants reduce stress levels. So, if you are one of those people who have avoided plants because they don’t survive well, get some artificial plants to lift the mood in your home and make it feel calm.

When choosing a real indoor plant, there are some factors to consider. Think about the lighting in a room. Plants need light to survive, but be careful of hot spots where there might be too much direct sunlight. On the flip side, bathrooms do not often have enough natural light, so I would recommend an artificial plant or houseplants that do not require much light – such as the spider plant, the snake plant, and the pothos – for such spaces. 

The pothos (also known as “money plant” or “Devil’s Ivy”) is one of my favourite plants as it is so easy to maintain and grows quickly, filling spaces with its beautiful bright green leaves. It is also easy to propagate and great for hanging planters. Succulents are another great low-maintenance option. They come in different varieties and can be very attractive and interesting.

3. Vary the heights and types of plants.

When you enter a room, having a selection of plants creates interest and encourages the eye to move along those areas. The space where you choose to place your plant will affect its height. If you have a large open corner, you can either put a large potted high plant or use a hanging basket with a plant that has long tendrils to fill that space. Plants on coffee tables may need a smaller leaf span so they do not dominate the space. Tiny spaces, meanwhile, can be filled with succulents. Various types of houseplants that can be used include the spider plant, the snake plant, the orchid, the pothos, the fiddle-leaf fig, bamboo shoots, and the peace lily.

4. Have fun with the pots and hangers.

Now it is time to get creative and have some fun! When choosing a plant pot, look at the decor style in the room and try to complement it. For example, if you have a modern living room, mostly in blues and whites, perhaps you should look at natural grass baskets or silver pots. It will depend on your style and what other accents are already in the room. If you already have grass or jute, go with natural-looking pots. If you want pops of colour, plant pots are a great way to do this. 

Using macrame hangers to add interest in a room is a must. Some hangers are more traditional, but you can also find some unique hangers that could suit your style – hangers with metal chains, leather, rope, or a variety of beads for example. For real plants, make sure your pots have drainage to allow for the excess water to drip out. If not, your plants could die from rot or overwatering. Be mindful about how much water you use, making sure there is no overwatering. Touch the soil with your finger to see if it is dry. If it is not completely dry, your plant may only need a little water or wait another day before watering it.

5. Nurture and Love your plants

When a plant dies, we may feel sad and disappointed. Nurturing a plant is a responsibility, and we can build a bond with that plant over time, especially when we see how well it is growing or blooming. Feeling proud of our plants is a positive feeling, one that adds happiness to our daily lives. 

You may need to re-pot your plants from time to time when the soil loses its nutrients. Your plant will thank you in a few days by looking so much better. Adding plants to your home will immediately lift your mood, reduce stress levels, and increase your productivity. Calm that clutter and love the home you live in!

If you would like to know more about how to organise and declutter your home, follow Fern McGahey on Instagram and Facebook, or go to https://calmtheclutternow.com.

The Oxford Dictionary definition of declutter is “to remove things that you do not use so that you have more space and can easily find things when you need them”, implying the main motivation for decluttering is that we can find things quickly when we need them and make more space. This is partly true, yes, but this definition does not reflect the impact of decluttering on a person’s lifestyle. 

I believe that the main function of decluttering is something much more important. It changes the way you live in your home. By removing what you don’t need, you create space for calm and mindful living and make it a place you love to live in. According to Marie Kondo, decluttering only has an impact if it is all done at once – not throwing out one item a day and doing it gradually. And I have to agree with her. When you declutter an entire wardrobe or defined space in one session, you will see and feel its impact. You will feel lighter and feel a sense of relief, which is all you need to change your life from that point onwards.

Watch The Video: 6 Steps to Decluttering Your Home

How Do I Start?

No two people have the same clutter – what is clutter to me is not clutter to you. It is subjective. This is why there are no specific instructions about what to declutter. There are, however, steps to follow in order to guide you through the process of decluttering. After all, decluttering is the first step to starting a new lifestyle. Once you intentionally decide what you need to keep in your home to live your ideal life, you have established the path to clutter-free living.

Organising and storing your items is not going to change your life because you will constantly be tidying items that you do not need. Now you may ask: when does one organise and store their items? That step comes after decluttering. Your space can only be successfully organised if you have decluttered properly. This is why I have developed the following six specific steps to get you started correctly – and successfully!

1. Identify the Cluttered Space

The space you identify could be one of three things: a room, a smaller space, or a category of things. A room is the easiest thing to identify due to its physical boundary of walls. A room can also be the hardest thing to declutter as it can be large with various zones and many different items. Make sure to set aside at least four hours for a good declutter session to get the desired effect. A smaller space can include a closet, a nook, a bathroom cupboard, the bedside table, the kitchen drawers, or the fridge. These are spaces that keep the same sort of items performing one function together. These take less time, but are very rewarding as you can declutter it one session.  

Decluttering by category refers to groups of items that could be in more than one place in the house. Examples include children’s toys, toiletries, cleaning products, or kitchen equipment. Often, this is a very efficient way to declutter as you are targeting all the items in that category at home. For example, you may have toys in more than one room, so you need to get all the toys out from all the rooms, declutter them, and then decide where they will go. It might be somewhere new that works better for the family. Cleaning products is another category that can be spread around the house – in the kitchen, bathrooms, or laundry area. When decluttering these areas, think of all the cleaning products in the house and do a stock take of all items to make sure you know exactly what you have in the house before you declutter. 

2. Visualise the Space

Think of the details. How do you want the space to look and feel? What colours do you see? Is there a photo on Instagram or Pinterest that inspires you? Do you like neutral colours? Do you want that spa feel in your bathroom? Then think about why you want this feeling – really hone into your ultimate goal for your home and keep this in your mind throughout the process. 

3. Start to Declutter

Take all items out of the space and spread them out on the floor or on a table. Pick up each item individually and ask yourself these few questions to determine where it needs to go:

• Do you need it?
• Does it add value to the life you want?
• Does it belong to the vision of this space or should it go elsewhere in the home?

4. Sort Items Into Categories 

Sort items into four storage boxes – Keep, Donate, Dispose, Recycle – while you are decluttering. Dedicate a space in the room to put the ‘Keep’ items. The rest of the items will go into the ‘Donate/Dispose/Recycle’ containers. Cardboard boxes or baskets are ideal, but make sure that they are clearly labeled and accessible nearby. You can use a marker on some tape or write directly on the boxes. Having these boxes at hand helps you make a decision quickly. You need to put the item in one of the three boxes if you are not keeping it.

It can also be motivating to have the ‘Donate’ box nearby in order to encourage you to get rid of items as you know someone else will make better use of it than you currently are. In the ‘Donate’ box, you might also identify some items you want to sell. You can address this at a later stage or have a separate box for sale items. It is time to give yourself a pat on the back when you have completed this step – it’s the most challenging part of the decluttering process. You may feel drained and exhausted as a result of all the decision-making, so take a well-deserved break as you only have two more steps to go. 

5. Take Immediate Action

As soon as you have gone through all the items in the identified space, move the boxes out immediately. Take the recycling to the recycle depot or bin that day. For donations, do your research about where to take certain items. A professional organiser can help you with this, too. At this stage of the process, it is often easy to feel tired and unmotivated to carry on. Donating items is rewarding and will give you the motivation you need to keep going. 

6. Give Yourself Some Love 

Decluttering is no easy feat. People avoid it all the time as it is mentally draining and takes time. However, if you get it right and achieve your goal, decluttering can be life-changing. You’ll feel light and have a huge sense of achievement. You’ll also feel proud as throwing out items that once meant something to you is not easy. However, understanding that those items are no longer adding value to your life is even more important. Treat yourself to something you enjoy, put those feet up, and visualise the calm and peaceful space that is to come. 

After decluttering, the next steps include allocating storage, organising the items, and beautifying the area. Not only can a professional organiser coach you through the decluttering process, but also provide you with their expert opinions on storage solutions and organisational methods that will calm and simplify your space. Make your home work for you already! 

If you would like to know more about the art of decluttering, visit Fern McGahey’s website or follow her on Instagram and Facebook.

Mindful shopping is a practice of mindful living. Mindful living brings joy, happiness, and meaning to your life. By being a mindful shopper, you are intentionally making choices that contribute to you living your best life. One of my favourite inspirational quotes is:

Vivienne Westwood, the fashion designer, made this powerful statement and showed that these three simple actions can change the way you shop, spend money, and live. A mindful shopper is a person who thinks carefully about what they buy. They consider the impact that the purchase has on their life before they buy the item. This might sound like a lot of effort to go through when shopping, but the more we think about what we buy, the more value we get from our money. Shopping becomes intentional, and you become more mindful about choices you make in life. 

Watch The Video: How To Shop More Mindfully

Some of the benefits of being a mindful shopper include saving money and time. Not buying impulsively when shopping will save you money and, by knowing exactly what you want to buy, you also save time trying to make quick decisions on items you are not sure about. Mindful shoppers have a home with minimal minimal clutter as they only buy what they need when they need it. This contributes to a simple lifestyle as you have less things to worry about in your home.

You may think that having less things means having a less valuable life, but it is actually the opposite. Purchasing only the items you need and love will add value to your life by cutting out items that do not add anything to your life goals. Mindful living is a lifestyle where you are aware of your choices and make decisions to nurture your mental and physical health. Here are eight tips to get you started.

1. Do a Stock Take

Check what you already have before you go shopping. If you are planning to browse your favourite home and fashion stores, think about what you actually need. If you know there is a good clothing sale going on, go through your wardrobe and write down what items you need. For example, if you have a pair of jeans that are worn out, do you need to buy another pair or do you already have enough? 

If you are shopping for food, check what it is in the pantry and fridge. You may have forgotten what you have. Buy food that complements what you have, so you can use it in a planned and tasty meal. Shopping for food should be purposeful, and you should have certain meals in mind to ensure you use up what you have already bought. 

2. Use a Shopping List

A list helps you to shop with intention. Group together items on the list according to what shop you are going to. You likely already know what the best places are to get certain things, so be patient and stick to your plan. For example, if you are going to a certain shopping mall that you know has your favourite clothing store, think about what items you would need specifically from that shop. Also, write down optional items that you may not need right away, but are worth buying if they are on sale.  

3. Be Patient with Sales 

The purpose of a sale for the retailer is to sell as much of their stock as quickly as possible, so that they can make space for the new stock. Advertising for sales makes us think that we need to buy quickly or risk losing out on amazing savings. Do not fall into this trap! Only buy what you need when you are ready to buy it. If you do not find what you want on sale, do not settle for something less desirable just because it’s cheap. You will most likely not use the item, waste your money, and create clutter in your home.  

4. Be Careful of Deals

Marketing campaigns that are very popular are promotional deals like ‘Buy 3, Get 2 Free’ or ‘Buy 2 for the price of 1’. Do you really need so many same or similar products? Again, this could be a clutter trap. If you really only need one bottle of something, then only buy one bottle of something. Getting three more in order to save a few dirhams might not be the best decision if you do not have space to store the items and only use them once a month, for example. 

5. Buy to Enhance

Enhance what you already have. When you go shopping to buy new outfits or home décor, have a good look at your current style. What do you already have that could be worn differently? Would some accessories or a specific piece create new outfits from what you have? For example, if you have a good pair of trousers that you haven’t worn because of its colour, you could buy a new top to complement it.  

Are there décor pieces, say of a certain accent colour, that could enhance the furnishings you already have instead of buying a complete set of new items? For example, you could buy new scatter cushions and a rug that brings in a new colour to your room instead of replacing the furniture. By enhancing what you have, you are reusing what you have in a different way and making it last. 

6. Think Quality, Not Quantity 

Buying quality items means they last longer, which means you save money in the long term. If items last longer, then you will also be buying less. Buying less means less clutter in addition to saving money and time shopping. Look after your purchases to help them last longer. Things to consider is where you buy your items, how you store them, and how you maintain them.

For example, a simple item like a shirt will last longer if it is of better quality. Choose shops that you know have good quality shirts. Once you have bought a good quality item, wash it according to the recommendations to make it last. If you see a shirt on sale in a shop that you know is not high in quality, ask yourself if you really want it. 

7. Protect the Environment

Take your own bags when you go shopping. This is one of the easiest actions you can take to protect the environment. Avoid plastic bags where possible. Use reusable canvas shopping bags, and use your handbag for small items. Keep shopping bags in the back of your car in case you forget them at home. Also, keep a small foldable tote bag in your handbag for unexpected purchases. 

When buying items, think about how it was made. Support small businesses and artisans if you can, which use methods that are less harmful to the environment. Buying less items over time will also help protect the environment. 

8. New Things In, Old Things Out

This depends on how much storage space you have for items. If your storage is already limited, you will need to get rid of old items as you buy new ones. Think about what you can donate or sell. By constantly doing this, you will have a clutter-free home. It will also help you to be more aware of what you have and what you need. 

If you would like to know more about how to organise and declutter your home, visit Fern McGahey’s website or follow her on Instagram and Facebook.

It’s been almost a year since the government announced amendments to a number of major personal and family laws that changed life in the UAE as we knew it. Covering a range of federal criminal laws – including divorce, cohabitation, women’s rights, and alcohol consumption – in a bid to improve living standards for the county’s multicultural residents, the sweeping changes have not only made a huge difference for current residents, but also those considering a move to the UAE. 

But nine months on, there’s still confusion surrounding exactly what is and isn’t legal when it comes to cohabitation – arguably the most significant in these law changes – and the potential outcome for couples who have a child out of wedlock. And that’s where our conversation with a family law specialist comes in.

“Prior to this amendment, cohabitation outside wedlock was prohibited in the Emirates,” explained Dr. Hassan Elhais, Legal Consultant at Dubai’s Al Rowaad Advocates. “The Federal Decree Law No.15 of 2020 amended certain provisions of the UAE Penal Code, with one of the significant changes to criminal law the amendment of Article 356, which allows consensual sex between adults. As a result of these changes, unmarried couples may live in cohabitation as long as they are consenting adults.”

While instances of prosecutions for unrelated men and women sharing a property were rare before the amendment to the law was passed, unmarried couples are now legally allowed to share a property without facing any repercussions.

“Since consensual sex outside of marriage is now legal in the UAE, it is not a crime to have a child out of wedlock anymore,” continues Dr.Hassan. However, this doesn’t mean that falling pregnant while unmarried is a straightforward process. “Obtaining a birth certificate for children born out of wedlock is still a challenge and not guaranteed in many cases, so it’s worth considering the fact that single mothers may face difficulty in getting a birth certificate for their newborns,” he explains.

As for sharing a property with friends who are literally just that – friends? “It’s important to note that the change in law is with regards to cohabitation or more commonly live-in relationships,” says Hassan. “Matters related to people sharing one property or shared accommodation remain unaffected by this change as landlords, Dubai Municipality, and competent Rental Dispute Centers are better placed to review these matters on a case-to-case basis.”

Let’s talk about our homes and what they mean to us. Do you want your home to be a calm, peaceful sanctuary? Do you ever feel like there is just stuff everywhere? Does the lack of space cause you anxiety? Do you feel frustrated when you can’t find that thing you need right now? Does the clutter drain your energy?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you can relate to how much our environment has an impact on us, physically and mentally. It is so important that we regularly address these areas of clutter regularly – otherwise, the daily stress and frustration will cause us to not fully love our homes. Our homes are our sanctuaries and thus need nurturing. Here, we describe some simple steps on how to create the desired calmness. Give it a go and feel the difference!

As a professional home organiser, I have the expertise to create calmness from chaos. It’s not always an easy process, but it is life-changing when you get it right. Having a home that works for you, meets your needs, and brings you joy is what we strive for. Having a vision for your personal space will help you make a powerful change. As for getting started? Follow my five-step S.P.A.C.E method to declutter, organise, and calm your home. 

WATCH THE VIDEO: The S.P.A.C.E Method

1. See it all.

You need to see all the items that are in a space, and you need to see the area clear of all things. Starting with a good stocktake of all the things you own will help you process what is actually in the space. Take each item out of the cupboards, drawers, baskets, and closets. Find a large open area – like the bed, the floor, or a table – where you can put all the items so that you can see them.

Once you have emptied the identified space, look at it with fresh eyes. How can you maximise the use of the area? What spaces were not used before? What storage works well? What useful things do you not have? Keep the answers to these questions in your mind as you go through the process.

2. Put the items into categories.

This can be the challenging part for some people as it is natural to resist change and not want to let things go. When decluttering, you need to be brave and make quick decisions. You need to seriously ask yourself how much you need each item in your life, and whether it make a difference to your happiness if you didn’t have it. Keep those things that bring you joy and that you cherish. Once you have gone through all your items, you should have them grouped in the following categories: Keep, Donate, Dispose, or Sell.

Keep – These items are those you use regularly and need to have in your home. They should add value to your life and be a part of the vision you have for your home. ‘Keep’ items can be put into two subcategories: regular use and storage. You may not use some items right now, but you definitely need to keep them. Some examples of this category are seasonal clothing, travel items, seasonal decorations, and outdoor equipment. 

Donate – These items are of good quality and can be used by others. Giving away an item can help you let go as it is easier when you know someone else will benefit from it more than you do. Be mindful about what you donate and make sure it is in a condition that you would like to receive it in – clean and well-presented. There are many local charities that will take donations.

Dispose – These items should be those that no longer serve any purpose and cannot be used by anybody else. Recycle as much of this as possible. Safely dispose of glass, electronics, and medical items. 

Sell – Successfully selling items is not always an easy feat. You will need to list it, be patient, and be prepared for various offers. Local community groups are often the easiest way to advertise goods, as are online platforms. These products need to be in a good condition and have a market value to attract buyers. 

3. Allocate storage areas.

Once you have gone through all your belongings and put them into the above four categories, you have completed the most difficult step. Now we focus on the items you have chosen to keep and how to store them. Firstly, group similar items together to get a better understanding of what storage areas you require. Categories may include frequently used items, extra stock, and items that need to be stored in the long term.

Next, look at the room and analyse it. Which is the most functional and practical place to put an item? Go through all the spaces and make sure you have allocated a location for all the items that are meant to be in this space. During this process, you may find that some objects don’t actually belong in that room, and it would make more sense to store them elsewhere. Remove them from the space immediately so that you remain focused on the area at hand. 

4. Contain your belongings.

Containing your belongings is the fun part! Think about what style you like and choose container colours that will match the existing colours in the space. The safest shades are white, black, grey, or natural tones as they can be used elsewhere if needed. You may have an accent colour in the room, which you could use for your storage containers to unify the look. 

There are endless types of containers you can use from simple baskets to custom cabinetry. I recommend looking at what you already have in your home. Some containers might be moved around from different rooms. You can also repurpose furniture items to suit your new storage needs. For example, a bookshelf in the bedroom might now be better suited to the living room. You will be surprised at what you might find when having a good look around your entire home, checking how well each furniture item is being used. Baskets, drawers with dividers, plastic bags, hooks, hangers, and boxes are all examples of things we can use to streamline the storage of items and keep things in their place. The main goal with containing items is that they are easy to identify, easy to access, and easy to put back in their place after use.

5. Evaluate and enjoy! 

This is the most rewarding part of the process. Once you have organised all the items into purposeful storage, use the space for a few days and tweak the area if you feel some things need moving around. Staying organised and maintaining your space is a constant task. You need to put things back where they belong in order to keep the space tidy and neat. 

To create a stylish look that you love, choose some of your favourite items to display in the space. Examples could be photos, sentimental pieces, and artwork. Add plants to bring nature indoors and scented candles to appease the senses. These additional accents will complete the feeling of a calm and organised area that is clutter-free. Finally, it is time to enjoy your peaceful new space!

If you would like to know more about how to calm that clutter, visit Fern McGahey’s website or follow her on Instagram and Facebook.