Last month we looked at some of our latest brands supplying us with trendy, contemporary furniture pieces. Today we are exploring home accessories and homewares that we have brought in to our collections at RB12, Shoreditch.
Your home furnishings are the details that make your home your own. They are the finishing touches that help you add personality and show your taste and style. After the main event of choosing your furniture, you can then think about the smaller elements that finish off a space, give it depth and make it feel homely.
Lighting
One of the first elements of home accessories to consider is your lighting. Lighting can be used in different ways; Practically, to light up your entire space. An accent, to highlight certain features in your space. Or as a stand-out feature in itself, illuminating sculptures becoming the centrepiece in your room.
If you’re looking for the latter, Haberdasheryis an award-winning design studio we have partnered with who specialise in a particularly artistic approach when it comes to lighting, and we are proud to have their stunning products in-store. Their luxury collections transform surroundings using both sculpture and light, and their products emulate a genuine love, care and unrivalled attention to detail.
One of their other-worldly designs is the Introvert Extrovertsuspendedglass pendant lighting design. It consists of two connected yet independently lit glass disks. The smaller disk rotates freely and is illuminated by a solid white light. The larger disk projects its light outwards, radiating a tinted glow in blushes of pinks and orange. These lights can be dimmed and tweaked to create the perfect balance. Available in a range of sizes and drop heights, this piece could work as a stand-alone piece or would look stunning as a cluster of hanging pendants.
Aromas Del Campois another lighting brand to join our family of collections. They are an innovative manufacturer that create a broad range of lighting solutions, with a focus on modern design and avant-garde aesthetics.
From their latest collection, they have brought out the Lindtable lamp designed by Agus Gascón. This is an unconventional design as it is a battery-powered lamp, allowing you to move the light at your convenience. The sleek, cylindrical design would fit into many different spaces and makes for a very versatile product. The internal, rechargeable battery lasts up to 20 hours and can be set at different intensities of light using the dimming button on the side. All of this makes for an unusual piece that comes in a range of finishes to fit your personal style.
For a more natural effect, you could look at the lighting designs by new supplier Gommaire. Gommaire’s signature designs are beautiful glassware pieces and handwoven baskets, emphasising their belief in organic living. Bringing out a series of hanging lamps, table and wall lamps they use naturalistic shapes and materials for a modern yet grounded finish.
At RB12 we especially love the Henrypendant lamp which comes in three different sizes. Made from rope jute which is a beautiful natural fibre and is extremely environmentally-friendly. The fibres let the light trickle through, making for a pleasant, muted light – perfect for a relaxed, cosy space.
Botanicals
Mother-nature and the natural world is a reoccurring trend and inspiration we see across interior spaces year on year. With this in mind, we have brought on an exciting new supplier Silk–kawho create heavenly silk flowers to be arranged in your home. These imitation flowers and plants are handmade to the highest quality and as with real plants their collections change with the seasons, enabling you to change your household arrangements as you would throughout the year.
Pictured above are examples of the Spring/Summer 20 and Autumn/Winter 20 collections and the different varieties of classic cut flowers, woody architectural stems and grass options to create distinct, original arrangements. All without the worry of them dying off and having to keep up with a care routine. Silk–ka also has a great selection of faux trees and houseplants, everything you need to create an all-year-round jungle paradise in your home. It’s hard to tell the difference between these imitation plants to the real thing, making guests wonder how you ever keep your plants so fresh and healthy-looking!
Linens & Soft Furnishings
Little details make all the difference in creating a space that is comfortable and finished. Your soft furnishings such as bed linens, tablecloths, cushions and throws all help towards this effect.
Lucio Versois a new supplier that creates accessories such as these that are designed especially to make you feel comfortable. Their aprons, tablecloths and bedlinen redefine style by not compromising on comfort and quality.
At RB12, we’re obsessed with the Marvin linen duvet cover and pillows in mauve taupe. This stonewashed effect with button detailing is just pure luxury. It is ethically made in Europe and is available in a range of sizes from single to super king. Going beyond the look and feel, linen is temperature regulating, anti-static, anti-bacterial and acts as a natural insulator, making it absolutely perfect for bedding. It keeps you cool in summer and warm in winter – what more could you want!
For the ultimate luxury in bedding take a look at the linen Siesta mattress topper from Lo de Manuela, which comes in a vast range of colours and has an invisible zipper. Made from washed linen this sumptuous topper weighs 180g/㎡ ensuring great quality. The washing and dyeing treatment the piece goes through provides softness and comfort and is stuffed with a duck feather filling.
Lo de Manuela also supplies exquisite tableware and linens for both the kitchen, bathroom and living spaces. The company founder, Manuela, has travelled the globe in search of textures, colours and moments that are then reflected in her decorative and elegant pieces.
Finishes
We’ve brought in contemporary design studio Kit Miles Studio to elevate our current fabric, wallcovering and cushion offering. They are a studio known for craftsmanship, repeat pattern work and surprising and exciting use of colour. Through us, you will be able to choose from their range of eye-popping and original wallpapers and fabrics as well as a selection of unique cushions.
His latest cushion collections are quite a statement. The bold designs are colourful and often made from exquisite silks, cotton and velvet adding a touch of sophistication and luxury. You can see he takes his inspiration from the natural world but also with abstract shapes and forms so there is a design for everyone’s tastes.
At the moment, the best way to explore the extensive collection of homewares and accessories is our online shop here. However, we do have a large showroom that will hold an array of products which you will be able to see for yourselves once the situation allows. If you have any queries or questions do not hesitate to get in contact with the RB12 team. You can contact us here or give us a call on +44 (0) 207 1352246.
Written by: Kate Nannery
Scandinavian-style living rooms are an increasingly popular design choice, with their sleek, modern look that encourages relaxation and functionality. If you’re looking for the perfect way to introduce this theme to your home, Scandinavian-style furniture is the perfect choice, with its simple and clean aesthetic that easily finds its place in any room.
Characterised by light colours that open up any room, Scandinavian furniture accentuates your interior effortlessly – and its simple and clean design ensures the Scandinavian aesthetic is here to stay. At RB12, we stock a luxurious selection of Scandinavian-style furniture, including beautiful designs by Bolia. Here, we walk you through Bolia’s fantastic range and how to style it to bring luxury to your living room, allowing you to sit back and relax in style. But first, let’s learn all about Scandinavian aesthetics and how to utilise it in your home.
Bolia is a Danish design company founded in 2000; despite not being a traditional design company, this hasn’t detracted from them becoming immensely popular and an award-winning furniture design company.
The company has a passion for following Nordic design traditions and top-notch craftsmanship, all whilst using sustainable materials, meaning they tackle sustainability head-on. You can see the care and attention to detail in the Bolia furniture available at RB12, with each piece being expertly crafted for long-lasting luxury. If you are looking for a new coffee table, Bolia’s fantastic range of tables is perfect for any contemporary living room. Bolia also offers a 10 year guarantee on their furniture so you can create your perfect living room knowing that it is guaranteed to last the test of time.
Scandinavian design interiors are becoming increasingly popular due to their emphasis on simplicity and functionality. They boast a relaxed yet luxurious look that easily lends itself to other aesthetics, such as minimalism or the heavy use of wood and other natural materials.
Scandinavian design began to gain popularity in the 1950s alongside the modernist movement that swept Europe and America at the time. The modern Scandinavian style brings priority to sleek, democratic and affordable furniture. Scandinavian furniture does not take away from the decor of the room; it simply elevates everything around it. A big flashy sofa is great for a grand show-off room, but if you want a minimalist Scandinavian living room, a Bolia sofa will fit in perfectly.
Giving your living room a Scandinavian makeover is easier than ever, and here’s how to do it.
When choosing colours and materials, use lighter colours and more natural materials such as wood and fabrics. Your next step should be to find minimalistic and simple furniture; we have you covered there. Bolia specialises in making contemporary living room furniture and has a huge range of Scandinavian furniture, ranging from sofas to sideboards.
Make sure to include plenty of greenery within your space, as this elevates the natural feel of a Scandinavian living room. Finally, use more neutral tones on your walls and flooring, as natural light will create a bright and airy room, whereas using brighter block colours could take away from the spacious feeling of the room.
Why choose a Bolia armchair?
Choosing the right armchair can be difficult, and finding one to match the rest of the furniture in your living room can take a lot of time; thankfully, Bolia’s range of armchairs will seamlessly blend with the other furniture in your Scandinavian living room, allowing you to sit back and relax in your new Bolia armchair.
The Bolia armchairs available at RB12 are inspired by nature and utilise refined earthy tones but also have some inspiration from classic armchair designs. The armchairs are the perfect luxury furniture to complement your living room.
With a great range of armchairs, the Bolia collection is worth checking out. Whether you want a stylish and sleek wooden armchair or something you can sink back into and relax after a long day of work, we have all you need at RB12.
Finding the rug that fits the aesthetic of your living room is always an incredible feeling. Experience that feeling whenever you browse our range of Bolia rugs at RB12.
Our selection of rugs is wildly different. The zen series is inspired by Japanese zen gardens, creating a soothing atmosphere in your living room. Meanwhile, the loop series offers a more toned-down look with calm colour palettes that brings a natural feel.
The rugs we have mentioned are just some of the amazing ones on offer at RB12, so thoroughly browse the selection and complete your Scandinavian living room.
Bolia is a unique furniture brand that beautifully brings the Scandinavian aesthetic to life in your living room. We have given you all the information you need to create your Scandinavian living room, so now all that’s left to do is to fill it up with some fantastic Bolia furniture. From comfortable armchairs to beautiful rugs that make you feel at peace, there is no reason not to shop at RB12, and once you have found all the right furniture for you, you can sit back and relax in your new living room. If you want to explore more of what Bolia has to offer, then make sure to check out their accessories range and fill your whole home with Bolia.
As we move into 2021 we are excited to put a spotlight on some of our stunning new furniture suppliers that have joined the RB12 family of brands this year. As you know we are crazy about Italian furniture, with its rich history of ornate design can be traced back to Roman times. But from 1901 onwards it took on a more contemporary style which made it what it is today with a global reputation of artistic vision, innovation, practicality and quality. Italian furniture is all about having space to eat, socialise and gather as a family while in keeping a distinctive style. This means that a lot of products become multi-functional but with a huge scope for personal aesthetic preferences.
Albaplus
This leads us onto our first new supplier Albaplus; a producer of stand out designer chairs and tables. They understand that the term ‘designer’ can be perceived as expensive but they prove otherwise. As manufacturers of designer furniture they have spent a huge amount of time as highly-skilled professionals studying and finessing every last detail of their products. This leaves you with a piece of furniture superior in quality and with a first class finish.
Studio Pang are a design studio who worked alongside Albaplus to create one of their stand out pieces, the Maui chair. It is a strong piece with a lightness of design which creates an extremely elegant chair. The design is available in 5 styles including one perfect for dining, two for lounging, a high stool option and a sofa. They come with a variety of leg options from ash wood to metal, giving you plenty of style options to fit your desired look.
Albaplus only use materials of the highest-quality that provide a distinctive, luxurious finish and create a warm and homely feel.
Cattelan Italia
Cattelan Italia are another new furniture supplier we’ve brought in that are truly masters of their craft. They were founded in the 1970s and are known for producing influential and cutting-edge furniture designs. Their designs are frequently eye-catching and instantly become a focal point in any space. With a rich design history they continue to innovate, and their 2020 collection focusses on elevating those significant details such as the materials, finishes and shapes.
At RB12 we love the Freeway bookcase from Cattelan Italia. It is a modular wall or ceiling hanging bookcase designed by Giorgio Cattelan. The design is a stunning storage solution for your personal belongings. It can be used as a divider to break up the space in a room, but because of its open design does not close off or darken your interior.
Being a modular system you can make it bespoke to your space and choose between lipped shelving, display boxes and varying sizes in brackets and pillars. You can choose from a clean titanium or a bronze embossed lacquered steel finish. You can also select containers in titanium or bronze embossed lacquered wood and stunning fumed glass (a process where the glass is made by putting precious metals between the torch and the glass, releasing fumes that leave a beautiful iridescence!).
Midj
Midj are also joining our portfolio of furniture suppliers, they successfully brought their work from artisanal production to an industrial level, making sure to retain the craftsmanship that isn’t always translated into larger-scale manufacturing.
Italian furniture is about bringing friends and families together (usually with some delicious food involved), so we have selected a new fixed dining table to showcase this new brand. The Lea table has four simply styled legs and a barrel shaped top which comes in either a ceramic or wood finish. This design encompasses Italian elegance with a family-friendly dining experience. With thin lines it gives a contemporary feel, and we can see it being used in a range of different spaces offering great functionality.
The Lea table base is available in a steel finish and you can choose between white, sand, grafite, black or brown, proving again how flexible this piece is. The table top has a variety of options too, including flamed wood, lacquered wood, Venetian glossy ceramic and ceramic marble effects, all in a range of different colours.
Ekip Italia
Founded in the 1900s in the upholstery furniture manufacturing district of Puglia, Italy, our next introduction is Ekip Italia. Now in their second generation, they are determined to look forward and avoid repetition of past styles, making their furniture products more original and contemporary with every new design.
The Butterfly sofa by Ekip Italia is a stunning piece focused first and foremost on comfort. Its slanted arm rests are just exquisite – one look at them and you want to sink back, swing your legs up and snuggle in for the evening. Even when sitting upright in this sofa the reclining headboard can be lifted to offer ultimate comfort, but any mechanics are hidden elegantly leaving a linear, smooth design.
Meme Design
An innovative new company also joining us is young and dynamic Italian furniture makers MEME DESIGN. They produce trendy furniture and accessories that are certainly bold, but always purposeful and practical for a multitude of living spaces. They use iron, a material present in nature and transform it into soft, sinuous shapes. They are proud of their ‘made in Italy’ status which means they have a passion for things done well and with beauty, and a care for the relationship with the piece to its surroundings.
We’ve all learnt this year how important outside spaces are, and because of this we have decided to highlight MEME Design’s new outdoor table range, Ermione Outdoor. This collection of metal tables was designed by Gianmarco Codato and Luciano Tevisiol and they have a light yet solid structure.
This design is treated by a cataphorensis process where it is coated by electrically charged particals, giving it a high resistance to atmospheric forces and corrosion. This process is followed by painting and is available in 15 vibrant sample colours. There are three different sizes to choose from; 50cm, 65cm and 90cm in width and varying heights. You can even bring this style indoors with their interior version.
Sancal
Italian furniture is by no means the extent of our furniture appreciation at RB12. One of our newest suppliers is Spanish manufacturer Sancal. They have a unique approach to design which makes their products fun and stimulating. They are committed to working with external designers to enrich their ideas and take them outside of their comfort zone – something we can safely say their furniture itself does NOT do.
They embrace joyful, bright colours which celebrates their versatility of upholstery. They have a strong sustainability ethos utilising solar panels, avoiding noxious chemicals, creating ageless products…you name it, they’re thinking about it.
The Mosaico bench is a great example that showcases their work. Working with studio Yonah, a company based in Valencia, they created this piece inspired by their hometown city which is renowned for its ceramic tiles.
The base made of ash is available in five different sizes which can then be topped with either marble or wooden benches crowned with soft upholstered cushions. There is an optional back piece which can transform it into a mini-sofa, and with a variety of different additions you can customise this modular piece to suit a range of spatial configurations.
We hope you’ve enjoyed learning about some of our new suppliers and have been inspired by some of their stand-out pieces. Look out for next months article where we will be focusing on the new years home accessory trends and highlighting some more of our new additions to RB12.
Your furniture is the heart of your home, so you want to ensure that it will last. Luxury furniture is a sustainable investment that guarantees that you will have the best quality furnishings for many years to come.
How long should furniture last?
One thing is certain: high-end furniture lasts longer than cheap, mass-produced furniture.
But how long should you expect your furniture to last, and when is it time to make a change? There are many answers to these questions because it depends on the type of furniture you own.
How do I know if my furniture needs to be replaced?
Unlike food, furniture doesn’t have an expiration date when you buy it. Its upkeep and longevity are determined by how well it’s maintained over the years.
Let’s explore how long your core pieces of furniture should last and what you can do to keep them in top condition.
Sofas
Sofas are the backbone of every living room. We’ve all been to someone’s house when their old sofa has that tell-tale dip in the cushion. This essential piece of furniture needs to be hardy enough to withstand binge-watching every series possible, wine nights with the neighbours, and the kids’ sleepovers. Ideally, you should renew your sofa every 7 to 15 years. However, reupholstering and handling this core piece of furniture with care can make your sofa last much longer. Many of our sofas by the likes of Saba, RB12, SITS, Bonaldo and Gervasoni require no re-upholstery thanks to their removable covers. Simply change the covers or have them washed or dry cleaned.
Dining tables
Every home needs a well-made dining room table. It’s the heart of every big festive dinner and also where you have a tea break during that work-from-home shift. A dining table can last anywhere between 5 and 20 years, as long as it is well cared for. Dining room tables are often finished to resist damage. However, to ensure your table lasts, we highly recommend using placemats, coasters, and tablecloths to protect against potential heat damage from plates or scratches. Recently, ceramic and marble tabletops have also become en vogue as they are durable enough to last for even decades, as well as many models being heat and scratch-resistant.
Chairs
Wooden chairs can last for a long time. In general, wooden furniture will remain in good condition for at least 10 to 15 years. We only recommend replacing chairs if the legs are wobbly beyond repair. In terms of upkeep and maintenance, ensure that people don’t lean back on your chairs, as this is a common reason they can be worn down!
If your dining chairs contain upholstery, it’s worth consulting an upholsterer to see if they can be repaired. How do you know if upholstery needs a bit of a makeover? Check for any holes, frayed fabric, or stains on the material. Unless your goal is to have a full matching dining set and you need more chairs to entertain guests, you don’t need to replace chairs very often.
Carpets and rugs
Standard carpets in mainstream stores last as little as 1 to 5 years. High-end carpets, usually artisan-made, with the most durable materials, last much longer than their cheaper counterparts. Not only do luxury rugs make a statement in your home, but they last 15 to 25 years or even longer.
Beds
Getting a good night’s sleep is crucial to our physical and mental health. So, you need a comfortable bed and base that will keep you well-rested for years to come. Bed frames made from wood should last up to 10 years, while metal bedframes last 5 years more. Similarly, a good quality mattress lasts 10 years, but as we age, it’s recommended that you replace it every 7 years.
How do I ensure my furniture lasts?
Luxury furniture is made to last but it will eventually come to an end like all good things. So, how do you make la creme de la creme of high-end furniture last as long as possible?
There are many simple daily hacks and tips to ensure your furniture looks as good as new over the years.
Consider the type of material and piece of furniture you want to maintain and the upkeep necessary. Make sure to follow your brand or supplier’s care instructions on upkeep and maintenance. If in doubt or unclear, you can contact us at RB12 as we’re always available to answer your questions and assist you in helping your furnishings last.
For example, a sofa is a core piece of furniture that requires care. Invest in stain removers that correspond with your sofa’s material. Sofa covers are a lifesaver if the material is too sensitive or has stubborn stains. Spruce up your sofa by changing its covers and throw cushions if you want to change your decor but not your furniture.
At the end of its lifecycle, can your furniture be upcycled or recycled? If it’s fixable, you could upgrade your piece by fixing up the upholstery. Or, if you need to invest in new pieces, consider donating old furniture elsewhere for a second life where it can be fixed and reused. Many luxury furniture brands even create high-end furnishings from recycled and recyclable materials for a more sustainable step forward.
Why is slow buying high-end furniture more sustainable?
With the rise of slow living, everyone is more conscious of sustainability regarding furniture.
Luxury furniture is often handmade, where possible, and uses materials that originate from the local communities. High-end furniture designs choose sustainably sourced wood that’s FSC certified and OEKO-tech certified materials created without the use of harmful chemicals.
Not only is handmade furniture more environmentally friendly, but each piece of furniture is also unique. No piece will be identical. When a company creates high-end furniture with a machine, it usually uses the latest technology for more sustainable, precise, and practical manufacturing processes. For example, if a design features intricate detailing that requires exact precision, a 3D printer is essential to make each piece completely identical.
Buying sustainably-made luxury furniture is a step in the right direction to reducing our carbon footprint because it lasts longer.
Luxury furniture at RB12
We collaborate with the best design houses to bring you furniture that reflects you and makes your house a home. From handmade rugs and sofas by Gan to modular furniture by Cinquant by Cinquanta3 and Novamobili, you’ll find everything you need here. Discover the most luxurious high-end furniture and invest in sustainable furnishings available at RB12 online.
After the week of sunshine we’ve just had around the UK, it seems strange to think many places had snow as little as two weeks ago! But with that in mind, we thought it would be a good time to talk about a design movement that emerged in the early 20th century – Scandinavian design.
A brief history of Danish design
This method of design is defined by its origin from the countries of Sweden, Denmark and Norway – but it has become a style that has influenced the entire globe since its beginnings. The 1930’s became what is known as the ‘Golden Age of Scandinavian design’ due to the influence of designers such as Alvar Aalto (The creator of the Model 60 stool) and Hans Wegner (Wishbone Chair).
In the 1950s international interest grew, and American manufacturers in the US obtained licenses to mass-produce Danish designs. In fact, one of Wegner’s designs was used in an infamous televised debate in 1960 between Richard Nixon and John F Kennedy, which was so iconic that it led to that particular design being known as simply, ‘The Chair’.
From the 1990s onwards there has been another revival that hasn’t and doesn’t seem to be going anywhere. We’re sure you’ve come across the word Hygge (Pronounced “Hoo-ga”), which is a Danish concept which in one word, encompasses the feeling of cosy contentment and well-being. Something we believe that anyone would want to describe their home or living space.
The look
Danish design is a timeless style that is marked by its focus on clean, simple lines and functionality, but without sacrificing beauty. It shares many elements with mid-century modern design but it favours bright, airy spaces rather than darker colours with less focus on light.
A manufacturer that implements this style can be found at RB12, known as Bolia. They design and manufacture beautiful Scandinavian furniture, handcrafted sustainably and tailored to this ageless style. Inspired by rolling meadows, icy fjords and refreshing forests their collections are totally inspired by nature. Every design is inherently tranquil.
Alp is new to their collection and is a dining table with accompanying bench seating. It is handmade with FSC-certified wood which is both natural and durable. Its clean and architectural lines give it an understated look, perfect for a large dining space filled with natural light.
Bolia have also launched their Spring/Summer collection this week so we couldn’t miss the opportunity to highlight some of our top picks from the launch. The Story coffee table comes in two very functional styles. The beautiful handcrafted details are both elegant and fit perfectly with the high-end design style we are talking about today. Made from FCS-certified wood this piece boasts easy-access storage too.
Another favourite from this launch is the Aya Sofabed. It is a new modular sofa with cushions filled with Bolia’s new soft filling for extra comfort. The covers are removable, which means they can be easily washed and gives the product great longevity – something crucial to the Danish way of design. Sustainable and eco-friendly design is so important and throw-away design is becoming a thing of the past!
Although this style is minimalist and simple, the concept still manages to be eye-catching and impactful. Supplier AYTM approaches the concept of Nordic design in a very sophisticated and elegant way. One of their latest designs is the NOVO bar stool. This piece also features stunning curves, drawing reference to old Danish classics but bringing it to modern life, winning the German Design Award 2021. This design comes in 6 different colourways so could suit a variety of different spaces.
Touching on the Hygge element of Scandi-design, rugs are a great way to add a snug warmth to your space. Fabula Living has recently brought out a hand-loom pile rug that is thick, soft and unique. Being hand-made they have irregularities in colour and weaving that give each piece individual characteristics and can even be made-to-measure to fit your room. The NANNA rug is available in a natural colour palette of charcoal, warm grey and light grey. Designed by Jens Landberg Schrøder, it is a truly danish piece and is made with New Zealand wool of the highest quality on a cotton warp thread base.
If you are looking to incorporate the Scandinavian style into your space but are concerned that you don’t have the right light, take a look at one of the latest manufacturers to join RB12, Le Klint. They have designed the stylish and slender SOLEIL pendant light. Made in Denmark, this piece focuses on using sustainable materials of hand-folded UV-resistant paper, natural flax cord and beautiful wooden details made from your choice of light oak or smoked oak. It could be placed over a dining area, in a restaurant or even in a business meeting room as it has a strong LED light, which through the pleated lampshade, prevents glare but still gives off plenty of light.
We have recently introduced a few more Scandi brands to our collection including; Louis Poulsen, House of Finn Juhl, One Collection, Northern, Design House Stockholm, FDB Møbler and Nuura Lighting. Keep an eye on our website to see what products we are adding to the store, or you can contact us here or give us a call on +44 (0) 2071 352 246 to discuss your interior needs.
