{"id":26042,"date":"2022-08-03T11:25:28","date_gmt":"2022-08-03T10:25:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.oakfurnitureland.co.uk\/blog\/?p=26042"},"modified":"2024-04-23T11:23:32","modified_gmt":"2024-04-23T10:23:32","slug":"qa-with-jen-stanbrook","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.oakfurnitureland.co.uk\/blog\/general\/qa-with-jen-stanbrook\/","title":{"rendered":"On the sofa with Jen Stanbrook"},"content":{"rendered":"

We love chatting to industry experts to find out their tops tips for decorating homes in style. Our latest interview is with interiors blogger Jen Stanbrook who shares advice for tackling room renovations, using social media to mood board your ideas and trends to have on your radar. Enjoy!<\/p>\n

Can you tell us a bit about your background and experience in interiors?<\/h2>\n

\"Jen<\/p>\n

For as long as I can remember, I\u2019ve loved interiors. Even when I was younger, I would tear up magazines and make mood boards in old scrapbooks, dreaming of how I\u2019d decorate my home.<\/p>\n

I\u2019ve lived in a lot of rental properties so found it frustrating not being able to put my stamp on my decor, so once I did buy my first home I couldn\u2019t wait to get started. I experimented a lot with paint finishes, wallpapering and making creative use of space. Needless to say, I made a lot of mistakes but I loved the process.<\/p>\n

Then in 2012 I created Love Chic Living \u2013 a home interiors blog focusing on inspiring yet achievable home decor for families. It\u2019s been my passion ever since.<\/p>\n

What advice would you give to someone embarking on a room makeover?<\/h2>\n

I\u2019d say a room makeover is an exciting opportunity to try something new. Even if it\u2019s just a small aspect of the decor, adding in something you\u2019ve never tried before can be great fun. Apart from that, I\u2019m a fan of research. Use tools like Pinterest<\/a> to hunt out your favourite looks and styles before you start. Make a Pinterest board and save all the ideas you love, then refine those ideas until you have a look that you\u2019re pleased with.<\/p>\n

How do you find your own unique style?<\/h2>\n

For me, my style is a real mix of looks that draw my attention. I love snooping around other people\u2019s houses and seeing what they\u2019ve done with their homes. I guess that\u2019s why we all love home decor on Instagram; we get to see real homes and how they look.<\/p>\n

What\u2019s the easiest way to add personality to your interiors?<\/h2>\n

\"Oak<\/p>\n

Copenhagen chest of drawers<\/a> | @renovating_wynd_house<\/a><\/p>\n

When a room needs a personal touch, I love to accessorise with my favourite wall art<\/a>. Even a small piece can make such a big difference to a room that feels bland or uninspired.<\/p>\n

Photographs of your family, your holidays, and other special moments can be professionally printed and make for beautiful and unique finishing touches that will always remind you of important memories.<\/p>\n

Family heirlooms like a beautiful photo frame or some silver candlesticks \u2013 or other bought antique pieces \u2013 will add a lovely personal touch by mixing the old with new and using pieces that can\u2019t be bought now, completely unique!<\/p>\n

Is there a particular room that you enjoy decorating the most?<\/h2>\n

I love decorating my bedroom. It\u2019s a place that you spend so much time in and is just for you. Creating a calm and peaceful environment where I can relax and unwind after stressful days is so important to me. I always keep everything simple, but really enjoy picking those special touches you can create through carefully chosen art or a beautiful mirror.<\/p>\n

What are your favourite Oak Furnitureland pieces and how would you style them?<\/h2>\n

\"Oak<\/p>\n

Parquet chest of drawers<\/a> | @thelightshesees<\/a><\/p>\n

I\u2019m a huge fan of the Parquet range<\/a> of furniture for its sleek Scandi vibe and modern design. Even if I couldn\u2019t fill a room with these pieces, just one or two in a bedroom or living room can be easily accessorised with neutral colours, soft rugs and lots of candles.<\/p>\n

Over the last couple years, I\u2019ve spent so much time in my office, and I\u2019m finally thinking about updating my space. I love this sleek, minimal Spot desk<\/a> with just enough storage space for key papers and pens which would fit easily into my small study area.<\/p>\n

What are key trends that you\u2019re seeing at the moment?<\/h2>\n

I\u2019m seeing a lot of statement pieces being used without fear. Don\u2019t be afraid of bright colours, funky patterns, or bold shapes to add something unique to your interiors. I\u2019m also seeing lots of wickerwork, perfect for summer. It\u2019s so easy to add to your own home; I\u2019ve used wicker plant pots for a small, stylish touch.<\/p>\n

How has social media changed interior style?<\/h2>\n

\"Oak<\/p>\n

Romsey bed<\/a> | @transformingno2<\/a><\/p>\n

Social media is amazing because it allows you to see so much inspiration in all types of styles. I love seeing everyone else\u2019s styles and being able to take those ideas and put my own spin on them.<\/p>\n

I think it\u2019s increased the amount of colour and bold design we\u2019re seeing. I love when interiors are fun and exciting, and social media has provided that space for unique styles to flourish.<\/p>\n

What\u2019s your advice for using Pinterest as a tool for planning decor projects?<\/h2>\n

Pinterest has been my passion since I was an early adopter back in 2013. When you\u2019re planning a new project, this is my advice:<\/p>\n