Staying Home In January
STAYING HOME IN JANUARY
Welcome to my website and thank you for taking the time to visit.
My warmest wishes for 2023 - I hope it is filled with good health, happiness and all that you desire.
Desire equates to a fulfilled life and there is no better time than the holidays to unwind and spend time doing what you enjoy the most.
I chose the topic ‘staying home in January’ essentially because my husband and I typically take a little vacation away after Christmas. But not this year.
I will always love this time of the year, where everyone is coming off Christmas and the weather is warm and sunny (mostly) and most of the population are winding down and recharging.
When our two children were growing up, naturally the perfect time to get away to rejuvenate was in the January school holidays, like most families. For me it was also about creating memories for our children of ‘fun in the sun’, licking an Italian gelato that was melting faster than they could eat it, sun kissed skin and taking walks after dinner. I liked the commotion and the activity of our chosen destination in Mooloolaba, a coastal suburb on the Sunshine Coast.
I didn’t particularly love the crowds, I was not alone in feeling like this, but it was all part of the package. I was immediately drawn to this friendly, safe, and energising beach side town. We loved discovering small details, and yet each year we would discuss possibly trying a different summer spot, but we stuck to it because it was perfect for our little family.
I admit, the long drive from Sydney was a challenge, and the kids (at times) loathed each other in the back seat of the car, arguing over space and window seats. So, the only thing we changed in the end was how to get there faster!
My children are now adults and have their own life, but the temptation is still there to ‘get away from it all’ after Christmas and the festivities of NYE, whether it be together with our family, or on our own.
But this year we decided to stay home in January and take some well-deserved time out with extended family and friends. We would partake in casual entertaining, take walks just as we would on vacation, eat ice-cream and embrace the unpredictability of it all within our own familiar surroundings. For me, as soon as New Year’s Eve is over it is the flag for me to do some serious relaxing.
At a time when remote working is the norm, I wanted to ensure my husband didn’t feel robbed by staying home in January and surprisingly he didn’t! In fact he thoroughly enjoyed the day trips, be able to visit the beach for fish and chips and still be able to come home to his own bed!
Granted, I still had a need for sun-baking (responsibly) to rake up some vitamin D. Our pool felt just as inviting as a resort one, and I have to say, I appreciated no race to the the sun lounge! It was about maximising my time and accepting impromptu invitations. We did the bare minimum cleaning and cooking, and still made the bed just like we would on vacation.
We visited relatives we had not seen in a while and spent quality time with our grandson without rushing or having to be anywhere. We overate and indulged more than we knew we should, but after all it was January, and everything is OK in January, or until normality returns.
I welcomed the occasional rainy day - it felt good not to be bothered by it, as much as it would if we were away. The rain came and went and it all felt so wonderfully relaxing, like walking on sunshine.
In January you can forget what day of the week it is, and it makes me smile how everyone's biggest decision is what to have for dinner (exactly like when you are on vacation).
I wondered what it would be like to stay home inJanuary when most of the community have left and the roads are a little quieter. While the air smelled the same and the sun still beamed. I have to say I was slightly more relaxed not having to worry about flight schedules, car hire and packing!
This year staying home in January reinforced to me that you are still on vacation no matter what, as long as you you are not working (or thinking about it). You can re-charge on your own sun lounge, watch Netflix on your large screen TV and still go to bed late! Total bliss right?
I look forward to sharing 2023 with you and I am available to assist you with my passion for creativity and bringing out the full potential for your home or business.
If you are looking to infuse your space with new colour or styling, or you just need a little help to change things up a little, look around at some of my styling tips and articles. I hope they bring you some inspiration as they are intended to!
I look forward to answering any design or styling questions you may have; feel free to email me at evokeinteriordecorating@gmail.com
Warm Regards
Marina
Article written by Marina Mura
Image credit:
Mood board curated by Evoke Interior Decorating
Designer Boys Art
READ MORE
Men’s Interior Styling - Transform Your Bedroom
There is a chemistry between balancing a gender-neutral interior without sacrificing a ‘manly’ vibe and this can be easily achieved with a modern alchemy approach. Here is an example, consider blending contrasting materials and colours to create a harmonious effect. Introducing moody tones, metallics and organic furniture will successfully reflect your personality and infuse that male influence into your space.
Men’s Interior Styling - Transform Your Bedroom
There is a chemistry between balancing a gender-neutral interior without sacrificing a ‘manly’ vibe and this can be easily achieved with a modern alchemy approach. Here is an example, consider blending contrasting materials and colours to create a harmonious effect. Introducing moody tones, metallics and organic furniture will successfully reflect your personality and infuse that male influence into your space.
How to Create an Imposing Art Wall
Creating an art wall allows you to push the boundaries of creativity and therefore speaks volumes in terms of individuality.
How to Create an Imposing Art Wall
Creating an art wall allows you to push the boundaries of creativity and therefore speaks volumes in terms of individuality.
How To Select Light Fixtures for Your Interior Design
Co-ordinating lighting to create a balance that correlates with your interior design is a must to ensure the prefect illumination for your home.
How To Select Light Fixtures for Your Interior Design
Co-ordinating lighting to create a balance that correlates with your interior design is a must to ensure the prefect illumination for your home.
Styling Modern Victorian
With any expansive classic Victorian home, braving a make-over journey of ‘modern mid-century’ can be undeniably difficult, however, if you maintain the existing design by enhancing the details like high decorative ceilings and large windows, you should be able to nail it.
Styling Modern Victorian
With any expansive classic Victorian home, braving a make-over journey of ‘modern mid-century’ can be undeniably difficult, however, if you maintain the existing design by enhancing the details like high decorative ceilings and large windows, you should be able to nail it.
How to Style an Australian Bush Home Inside and Out
Can you visualise an exterior composed of corrugated steel and warm wood, this is the backbone of an Australian bush home and the catalyst for a shelter consisting of simple architectural lines. Upon entering, the warm tones should follow a subtle interior design, embracing neat backgrounds and sweeping views, ultimately creating a clever interaction with nature.
How to Style an Australian Bush Home Inside and Out
Can you visualise an exterior composed of corrugated steel and warm wood, this is the backbone of an Australian bush home and the catalyst for a shelter consisting of simple architectural lines. Upon entering, the warm tones should follow a subtle interior design, embracing neat backgrounds and sweeping views, ultimately creating a clever interaction with nature.
Japandi - A Life Time of Style
It can make you feel connected to nature. It exhibits important characteristics of Japanese sleekness and mindfulness wrapped up beautifully in Scandi design.
Japandi - A Life Time of Style
It can make you feel connected to nature. It exhibits important characteristics of Japanese sleekness and mindfulness wrapped up beautifully in Scandi design.
How To Style A Young Girls Bedroom
I like when a young child's bedroom has all the special touches and elements that create a magical spot in their home to sleep, dream and wonder.
How To Style A Young Girls Bedroom
I like when a young child's bedroom has all the special touches and elements that create a magical spot in their home to sleep, dream and wonder.
Pantone Colour Of The Year 2024 - Peach Fuzz
I may be giving away my vintage here, but peach fuzz (in a nostalgic and good kind of way) has surprisingly transported me back to the late 80’s (early 90's) colour palette. An high-octane of pastels like this were incorporated in almost everything to do with home interiors and more!
Pantone Colour Of The Year 2024 - Peach Fuzz
I may be giving away my vintage here, but peach fuzz (in a nostalgic and good kind of way) has surprisingly transported me back to the late 80’s (early 90's) colour palette. An high-octane of pastels like this were incorporated in almost everything to do with home interiors and more!
How To Elevate a New Bathroom Using Marble
It essentially comes down to individual taste and budget, but when it comes time to compose this luxury stone with other elements, you cannot go wrong when sourcing specifically for a bathroom. For example, a stone bathtub, a natural or black timber veneer vanity with an encased marble top, together with layered lighting, will take it to the next level. As long as you have balance and proportion, even the simplest design will take shape.
How To Elevate a New Bathroom Using Marble
It essentially comes down to individual taste and budget, but when it comes time to compose this luxury stone with other elements, you cannot go wrong when sourcing specifically for a bathroom. For example, a stone bathtub, a natural or black timber veneer vanity with an encased marble top, together with layered lighting, will take it to the next level. As long as you have balance and proportion, even the simplest design will take shape.
Christmas Table Styling
I love sharing my tips for a fresh and inviting Christmas tablescape. With an array of table linens and Christmas decor to choose from online and in store, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes time to adorn your table top. I am excited for you to explore, but before you do read on and ease into the festive season with confidence with this quick article.
Christmas Table Styling
I love sharing my tips for a fresh and inviting Christmas tablescape. With an array of table linens and Christmas decor to choose from online and in store, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes time to adorn your table top. I am excited for you to explore, but before you do read on and ease into the festive season with confidence with this quick article.
Using Colour And Natural Light To Make Your Space Pop
Capturing natural light to enhance colour and contrast will add dialogue between light and shadow in a well designed space. Aim to strategically place focal pieces to create understated style and harmony.
Using Colour And Natural Light To Make Your Space Pop
Capturing natural light to enhance colour and contrast will add dialogue between light and shadow in a well designed space. Aim to strategically place focal pieces to create understated style and harmony.
Art For A Spring Inspired Living Room
Re-imagine your interior with some Spring inspired furnishings and complementing art.
Art For A Spring Inspired Living Room
Re-imagine your interior with some Spring inspired furnishings and complementing art.
5 Ways To Bring Luxury Milanese Styling To Your Hospitality Space
Unless you are governed by regulations making it challenging to modernise the area, you should open your mind by mixing different textiles and colour to achieve an exceptional Italian inspired interior.
5 Ways To Bring Luxury Milanese Styling To Your Hospitality Space
Unless you are governed by regulations making it challenging to modernise the area, you should open your mind by mixing different textiles and colour to achieve an exceptional Italian inspired interior.
How To Decorate a Hamptons-Style Bedroom With a Difference
The essence of rest is more necessary today than ever before and creating a Hamptons bedroom with some modernity to it, whilst keeping the traditional elements, will mean no hard and fast rules. The finer details are important if you want to make an impression. Consider unique and unexpected touches with a plethora of colour options. Think outside the square whilst maintaining the original concept. Get moody, it doesn’t have to be all about bright whites.
How To Decorate a Hamptons-Style Bedroom With a Difference
The essence of rest is more necessary today than ever before and creating a Hamptons bedroom with some modernity to it, whilst keeping the traditional elements, will mean no hard and fast rules. The finer details are important if you want to make an impression. Consider unique and unexpected touches with a plethora of colour options. Think outside the square whilst maintaining the original concept. Get moody, it doesn’t have to be all about bright whites.
How to Select A Customisable Sofa
I like the advantages of custom-made, as it can be the difference between a sofa specially designed to fit a functional and well-thought-out floor plan, rather than a sofa trying to make it work in the wrong space ~ Marina
How to Select A Customisable Sofa
I like the advantages of custom-made, as it can be the difference between a sofa specially designed to fit a functional and well-thought-out floor plan, rather than a sofa trying to make it work in the wrong space ~ Marina
In Conversation With Tashi Tsering, Creative Head And Founder Of Tashi Design Studio
"My inspiration comes from so many different places, especially designs from the past or art forms from different cultural backgrounds. I have always been passionate about different styles of pattern designs since my college days, and hence started experimenting with many different styles of work. The constant learning helps me improve my craft, and this encourages me to create and experiment with a variety of styles, which is a huge part of what I do." Tashi
In Conversation With Tashi Tsering, Creative Head And Founder Of Tashi Design Studio
"My inspiration comes from so many different places, especially designs from the past or art forms from different cultural backgrounds. I have always been passionate about different styles of pattern designs since my college days, and hence started experimenting with many different styles of work. The constant learning helps me improve my craft, and this encourages me to create and experiment with a variety of styles, which is a huge part of what I do." Tashi
What is Chintz – The Resurgence Of A Historic Textile With a Modernistic Twist
Indian chintz does not need an introduction, yet not everyone appreciates the long history of this colourful hand painted or wood blocked glazed cotton fabric, crafted by Indian artisans for centuries. You could say chintz has had a recent revival thanks to ‘mid-century modern’ which means you are basically mixing vintage design with new pieces.
What is Chintz – The Resurgence Of A Historic Textile With a Modernistic Twist
Indian chintz does not need an introduction, yet not everyone appreciates the long history of this colourful hand painted or wood blocked glazed cotton fabric, crafted by Indian artisans for centuries. You could say chintz has had a recent revival thanks to ‘mid-century modern’ which means you are basically mixing vintage design with new pieces.
How To Create an Easter Table Scape
The thinking and planning process is all part of being a good host. This will ensure you have an unforgettable Easter feast and a beautiful table to serve it on. But the food and table setting are not the only important factors, when it is all said and done, it is the people around the table that ultimately makes the day, so choose carefully.
How To Create an Easter Table Scape
The thinking and planning process is all part of being a good host. This will ensure you have an unforgettable Easter feast and a beautiful table to serve it on. But the food and table setting are not the only important factors, when it is all said and done, it is the people around the table that ultimately makes the day, so choose carefully.
Bathroom Remodel and Design
Entrusting an interior designer is money well spent and can avoid costly mistakes for you. Remember, wrong decisions can be hard to reverse or accept when all is said and done.
Bathroom Remodel and Design
Entrusting an interior designer is money well spent and can avoid costly mistakes for you. Remember, wrong decisions can be hard to reverse or accept when all is said and done.
My Holistic View on ChatGPT
I admit I have some knowledge on AI, but not as much as I probably should, and in no means am I trying to persuade a moral point of view on it. However, as a copy and content writer I have an obligation to inform readers who take the time to visit my website, what are my personal thoughts on this ‘hot’ topic. Whilst my articles are based on my knowledge of the interior and design industry, life experience and creativity for textile and design, I keep reminding myself that I do not have all the answers, nor the insight of where ChatGPT is really going to take us.
My Holistic View on ChatGPT
I admit I have some knowledge on AI, but not as much as I probably should, and in no means am I trying to persuade a moral point of view on it. However, as a copy and content writer I have an obligation to inform readers who take the time to visit my website, what are my personal thoughts on this ‘hot’ topic. Whilst my articles are based on my knowledge of the interior and design industry, life experience and creativity for textile and design, I keep reminding myself that I do not have all the answers, nor the insight of where ChatGPT is really going to take us.
Easy Table Setting Styling
If you are keen to master everything you need to know about table placement setting, even if you prefer to stick to a casual concept each time, here is an easy guide on how to incorporate ‘punching’ tableware for a successful dinner party, luncheon, brunch or even breakfast, and set the seal on creating a memorable time. Are you the hostess with the mostest?
Easy Table Setting Styling
If you are keen to master everything you need to know about table placement setting, even if you prefer to stick to a casual concept each time, here is an easy guide on how to incorporate ‘punching’ tableware for a successful dinner party, luncheon, brunch or even breakfast, and set the seal on creating a memorable time. Are you the hostess with the mostest?
How To Style A Summer Outdoor Setting
My aim is to bring in lifestyle designs that are relatable to anyone with an outdoor space, so you do not need to have a swimming pool, or an expansive water view to appreciate this, all you need is to let it unfold and allow yourself to be open to new concepts.
How To Style A Summer Outdoor Setting
My aim is to bring in lifestyle designs that are relatable to anyone with an outdoor space, so you do not need to have a swimming pool, or an expansive water view to appreciate this, all you need is to let it unfold and allow yourself to be open to new concepts.
Keep Calm Christmas Is Coming - How to Decorate Your Home's Interior Easily and Stress Free
There is no better time than Christmastime to showcase your favourite hues with clever splashes of sparkle and light to flank your tree, mantel, or sideboard with engaging results.
Keep Calm Christmas Is Coming - How to Decorate Your Home's Interior Easily and Stress Free
There is no better time than Christmastime to showcase your favourite hues with clever splashes of sparkle and light to flank your tree, mantel, or sideboard with engaging results.
In Conversation With Jacinta Bishop, Founder And Designer Of Salt Living
"My vision for Salt Living is to continue growing and developing our own signature style. I’d love to expand my collection into printed linen fabrics from which we could launch a wider range of products in addition to our bedlinen. Designing products like curtains, lampshades, wallpaper, beautiful things like that. These are long term goals; however, I never want to rush anything. I prefer to let my creativity and brand evolve." Jacinta
In Conversation With Jacinta Bishop, Founder And Designer Of Salt Living
"My vision for Salt Living is to continue growing and developing our own signature style. I’d love to expand my collection into printed linen fabrics from which we could launch a wider range of products in addition to our bedlinen. Designing products like curtains, lampshades, wallpaper, beautiful things like that. These are long term goals; however, I never want to rush anything. I prefer to let my creativity and brand evolve." Jacinta
Paying Homage To Sardinian Textiles
The craft of weaving has always been a part of Sardinia’s rich ancient history. It was a time-honoured custom for each generation of weavers to curate old patterns to conserve traditional heirlooms. The patterns are even known to be found in ancient artefacts. Without a doubt my special interest in textiles and design is inherent.
Paying Homage To Sardinian Textiles
The craft of weaving has always been a part of Sardinia’s rich ancient history. It was a time-honoured custom for each generation of weavers to curate old patterns to conserve traditional heirlooms. The patterns are even known to be found in ancient artefacts. Without a doubt my special interest in textiles and design is inherent.
What Is The Difference Between A Duvet, Doona & Quilt?
What is a Doona, and is it the same as a Quilt? A ‘doona’ in essence is just another name for a continental quilt or duvet - let me explain why. For many Australians the term ‘continental quilt’ was the favoured word until 1980, after this it was referred to as a ‘doona’. This derives from the Danish word ‘dyne’, meaning down and feathers.
What Is The Difference Between A Duvet, Doona & Quilt?
What is a Doona, and is it the same as a Quilt? A ‘doona’ in essence is just another name for a continental quilt or duvet - let me explain why. For many Australians the term ‘continental quilt’ was the favoured word until 1980, after this it was referred to as a ‘doona’. This derives from the Danish word ‘dyne’, meaning down and feathers.
How to Style A White on White Interior
A white-on-white palette will never date. It may not be for everyone and for some have a clinical connotation, even so, it is versatile and can be changed up easily by introducing colour and texture should you become bored with it.
How to Style A White on White Interior
A white-on-white palette will never date. It may not be for everyone and for some have a clinical connotation, even so, it is versatile and can be changed up easily by introducing colour and texture should you become bored with it.
How to Style Art Deco With A Modern Vibe
Think Outside the Square for a fresh take on your Art Deco Interior
How to Style Art Deco With A Modern Vibe
Think Outside the Square for a fresh take on your Art Deco Interior
How to Style a Small Apartment
The interior design of a small apartment can be every bit as stylish as the mansion at the corner of your street.
How to Style a Small Apartment
The interior design of a small apartment can be every bit as stylish as the mansion at the corner of your street.
.jpeg)
How to Create A Modern Farmhouse Style
Are you drawn to a modern farmhouse style, do you even know what this means? It means showcasing a combination of natural materials, boundaries of modern and old that meet together in one big farmhouse clash!
How to Create A Modern Farmhouse Style
Are you drawn to a modern farmhouse style, do you even know what this means? It means showcasing a combination of natural materials, boundaries of modern and old that meet together in one big farmhouse clash!
Selecting Art For Your Interior Space
A good art piece is a fabulous way to express your individuality and design style. Purchasing artwork is made easy when you follow your heart...
Selecting Art For Your Interior Space
A good art piece is a fabulous way to express your individuality and design style. Purchasing artwork is made easy when you follow your heart...
Creating the Perfect Hamptons Coastal Bedroom
When we think of Hamptons style, we are inspired by The Hamptons in Long Island, New York. Imagination takes us to a bright home of generous proportions with a rich coastal vibe...
Creating the Perfect Hamptons Coastal Bedroom
When we think of Hamptons style, we are inspired by The Hamptons in Long Island, New York. Imagination takes us to a bright home of generous proportions with a rich coastal vibe...
Outdoor Alfresco Styling - How To Create The Perfect Outdoor Space You Will Love
We have curated three stunning mood boards for your inspiration. Our back gardens are an extension of our Australian climate, making outdoor living possible all year round...
Outdoor Alfresco Styling - How To Create The Perfect Outdoor Space You Will Love
We have curated three stunning mood boards for your inspiration. Our back gardens are an extension of our Australian climate, making outdoor living possible all year round...