The new naturals combine comfort and texture in wood, linen and leather layers. The result is a home worth hibernating in.

PALLET FURNITURE

The student flat standby of beer crates as book shelves gets a stylish update with unloved pallets transformed into furniture. Try nailing some together for a bed base or throw some cushions on top for a Moroccan outdoor seating vibe. Then, when you’re adept at pallet furniture creation, you can always try fashioning a sofa and armchair as your piece de resistance. If that sounds all too much, get in touch with The Pallet Kingdom in Auckland whose motto is: “Making the marvellous out of the discarded”. Go to thepalletkingdom.com

Quartz geode sculpture, $170, from Mid-Century Swag

OUT OF THE WOODS

There’s a good reason why wood has been the go-to choice of furniture makers since time immemorial. Readily available and a material that lasts, wood, used these days, imparts a welcome sense of permanence to interiors.

Citta coat stand, $370 (above)

Natural leather weave bench, $1250, from Corcovado (above)

Mixed media

Textures matter. Mix Belgian linen with leather webbing, carved wood and even the odd concrete piece for a multi-layered effect. Mix the many tones of beige and neutral to create interest.

*From left to right
Alex & Corban concrete pipe stool, $160.
Hallett round side table, $395, from Early Settler.
May Time pod chair, $929, from Mildred & Co.

Seating plan

A sofa that lets you sprawl is an investment in your wellbeing. Nothing matters when you’re lying horizontal with a hot chocolate and a good book. Cocooning is the last word in winter indulgence.

Citta armchair, $2140 (above)

 

Freedom Furniture Hamilton modular 3-seater sofa, 1.5 seater and ottoman, $4246 (above)

 

Early Settler Slouch sofa, $2990 (above)

Texture: try it on for size

Nothing says natural texture like a jute rug. You can pick up a version from Nest from $489; Bunnings from $199; and a small size from Ezibuy for $59. Textured wallpaper is pretty sophisticated these days. You can even get a convincing white faux brick look. Check out Aspiring Walls’ novelty wall-papers. Above from left: log paper and pressed tin, both $100 per roll; brick look, $122, per roll.

 

Hand-knitted cushion, $59.90, from Paper Plane.
Alex & Corban Euro pillowcase, $40.

While there’s nothing boring about neutrals on beige, don’t be afraid to add a jolt of colour if you feel so inclined.