Nectar Memory Foam Mattress in Bedroom

Memory foam has been a mainstream product for decades, but in the last few years, it’s taken off as one of the primary materials for mattresses and pillows.

With mattresses, some argue that memory foam has a tendency to run a bit hotter than a traditional innerspring mattress. While something like a pillowtop mattress might be a cooler experience for you, there are certain steps you can take to assure a cool night's sleep on your memory foam mattress.

Start with the Bedroom

When finding ways to cool down your sleep in general, there are a few steps you can take before you settle down to bed that will assist you in sleeping a full, comfortable night.

Find the Right Mattress Pad or Topper

Mattress pads and toppers are one of the best hot mattress solutions if you feel like your memory foam mattress keeps you too warm at night. Not only can they protect your mattress and add additional mattress support, but they can also help keep you cool while you sleep. In general, you’ll want to find a pad or topper that is made from natural materials, fibers, down, or even feathers. In fact, some mattress toppers even have special cooling technology that can help keep you cooler whether you’re sleeping on a memory foam mattress, innerspring mattress, or a hybrid.

Choose Sheets and Pillows Wisely

Not all sheets and pillows are created equal. If you’re finding yourself waking up throughout the night in a sweat, your sheets and pillow might be to blame. Just like a mattress pad or topper, you want to find the right kind of sheets for your mattress, your preferences, and your natural body temperature. In fact, they even make cooling sheets for memory foam mattresses that can help you better regulate your temperature throughout the night. If you’re looking for a hot mattress solution, be sure to check out all of the bed sheet and linen options available at Star Furniture & Mattress. A moisture-wicking sheet can help you stay cool and temperature regulated during your sleep as they reduce body heat retention. Sheets made from high-quality cotton or woven bamboo fibers can also achieve the same outcome.

We’ve found that nothing quite controls your sleep better than the right pillow. After all, as your head stays cool, so does the rest of your body. Many pillows for sale now feature special cooling technology that are cool-to-the-touch while also promoting breathability, which will in turn help keep you cool throughout the night.

While everyone’s bodies are different, the fact that memory foam retains heat cannot be ignored. But by taking the necessary steps, you can assure yourself both a comfortable and cool night. Want to sleep better? Browse our mattresses and other bedding solutions to find your perfect sleep. Our mattress buying guide can even help you find the perfect mattress to meet your needs!

Memory foam has been a mainstream product for decades, but in the last few years, it’s taken off as one of the primary materials for mattresses and pillows. With mattresses, some argue that memory foam has a tendency to run a bit hotter than a traditional innerspring mattress. While something like a pillowtop mattress might […]

A modern dining room featuring a dark wood table with six upholstered chairs, a glass-door cabinet, beige curtains, a spherical chandelier, and large windows with a view of trees.

When it comes to buying furniture, your options are endless. While fashion and style are key, buying furniture is not like picking out a seasonal spring sweater. It's a long-term investment. That's why it's crucial to arm yourself with the right knowledge for your furniture-buying journey. Aim for pieces that aren’t just stylish, but also high-quality and durable, capable of enduring year after year.

By focusing on quality, you ensure that every piece you bring home is not only well-crafted but also offers real value for its price. A great place to start is at a trusted store like Star Furniture, where our dedicated design team is eager to assist you in finding the perfect pieces for your space. With our help, you can be confident that your furniture will not only look stunning but also withstand the test of time.

So, how do you choose well-crafted furniture, and how do you spot high-quality materials? Check out our guide on how to choose furniture that stands the test of time.

The Essence of Craftsmanship in Furniture

Furniture pieces are made in a variety of ways, and they're not all created equally. When a furniture manufacturer combines time, skill, and intentional workmanship into a piece, the evidence is clear. True craftsmanship doesn't cut corners for the sake of efficiency. Instead, high-end manufacturers go above and beyond to create timeless pieces that are built to last. 

The hallmarks of quality craftsmanship include:

High-quality craftsmanship ensures that you're buying something that was made with quality materials, thoughtful consideration, and exceptional skill. Because of this, your furniture will last longer and look good for years to come.

Understanding Furniture Materials

Furniture is made from a variety of materials, depending on its purpose and the aesthetic you're trying to achieve. Some common furniture materials include:

The Beauty and Intricacy of Wood Furniture

Wood furniture can vary greatly in terms of craftsmanship. Once you know what to look for, it's easy to spot a high-quality piece. Superior wood furniture depends on the:

The Strength and Modern Look of Metal Furniture

Metal furniture can be very cheaply made or carefully crafted by a high-end manufacturer. Here's what to look for in a high-quality piece:

The Style and Durability of Leather

When selecting quality leather furniture at a furniture store, there are several key factors to consider:

Remember, genuine leather will have natural imperfections and variations in color, which contribute to its unique character. Sit on the furniture to test its comfort and the quality of its construction; quality leather furniture should feel sturdy and supportive. Don't hesitate to ask for details about the maintenance and care requirements, as quality leather furniture is an investment that requires proper upkeep to maintain its beauty and longevity.

The Art of Joinery

Cheaply made ‘fast furniture’ can be spotted by looking at the way wooden joints are connected to one another. Staples, glue, and nails are rarely indicators of a high-quality piece. Instead, look for joints that are clean, sturdy, and prove excellent craftsmanship. Dovetail joints, bridle joints, and finger joints require careful precision and extra time, but the end results are beautiful and long-lasting. 

In fact, the joints are one of the best ways to determine whether a piece of furniture is well-made and heirloom worthy. Instead of gluing pieces of wood together an artisan carefully cuts each piece so that they fit together firmly, like a glove, creating a sturdy and beautiful joint.

Finishing Touches: Finishes and Protective Coatings

A piece of furniture can be well-made, but without the right finish, it won't last very long at all. Finishing and protective coatings keep the wood from being damaged by scratches or moisture over the years. This is especially important for pieces like dining room tables, cabinetry, and coffee tables. Polyurethane is one of the best varnishes to use on wood furniture because it protects the wood while highlighting its natural beauty.

Elegant living room with a light grey sectional recliner sofa, nested coffee tables, a floor lamp, abstract wall art, and arch-top windows showing greenery outside.

Design and Functionality: A Balancing Act

High-quality furniture stands the test of time in terms of both aesthetics and functionality. Look for pieces that match your decor and personal tastes, but don't skimp on quality. Otherwise, you'll be shopping for the same piece of furniture in a few years. Well-designed furniture is carefully crafted to last for years, enduring the daily wear and tear of normal use. When shopping for furniture, you should never have to choose between quality and aesthetic appeal. A well-crafted piece that's made with intentionality will look authentic and will be perfectly functional for a variety of purposes.

The Impact of Care and Maintenance

Quality furniture will last for years, but its lifespan will depend greatly on how well it's maintained. Proper cleaning, dusting, and repairs are crucial to keeping it looking its best. Always refer to the maintenance guide that comes with your purchase to best approach cleaning and care. As a rule of thumb, dust your wood surfaces and vacuum upholstery often. This keeps debris from accumulating and breaking down the furniture, and keeps it looking its best for years to come.

Recognizing Timeless Styles

While trending colors and fashionable designs come and go, certain timeless styles never fade. When choosing well-crafted furniture, it's wise to select pieces that will maintain their allure for years to come. Trend-driven styles might capture your attention today, but they can quickly become dated. 

When selecting these timeless pieces, pay attention to their functionality and how they fit into your lifestyle. Furniture that combines aesthetic appeal with practical use is always a wise choice. By selecting wisely, you create a living space that is both stylish and enduring, a true reflection of timeless elegance and practicality.

Pro tip: Classic pieces like chesterfield sofas and wingback chairs have been around for centuries, and they aren't going out of style anytime soon!

The Cost of Quality: Understanding Value Over Time

It's no secret that high-quality furniture costs more than their low-end counterparts. Although you're spending more initially, a well-crafted piece is well worth the investment. Cheap, low quality furniture is built with mass production in mind. Fast furniture manufacturers often skip crucial steps that ensure furniture will last, resulting in customers having to repurchase the same piece after only a few years. Well-crafted furniture, on the other hand, is made with integrity and precision, ensuring that each piece meets excellent standards with high-quality materials, so customers can take pride in their furniture that will last for years.

Shop Star Furniture for The Best in Quality-Made Furniture

The most crucial advice we can offer in your quest for high-quality furniture is to choose a retailer you can trust, such as Star Furniture. By doing so, you'll have confidence in the quality, durability, and style of your furniture purchase. At Star Furniture, we carefully curate our collection, handpicking only the finest pieces from our chosen manufacturers. This meticulous selection process ensures that our customers receive the very best for their homes.

Remember, investing in high-quality furniture is not just about making an immediate impact in your space; it's about making a lasting choice that you'll cherish for years to come. At Star Furniture, we're proud to be part of that timeless choice, helping you create a home that's as durable and stylish as it is welcoming.

When it comes to buying furniture, your options are endless. While fashion and style are key, buying furniture is not like picking out a seasonal spring sweater. It’s a long-term investment. That’s why it’s crucial to arm yourself with the right knowledge for your furniture-buying journey. Aim for pieces that aren’t just stylish, but also […]

bright, sunny, spring-inspired living room furniture vignette with checked print and grey color palette

There's something about spring that gets people excited to embrace change. The newfound warmth and freshness in the air are enough to motivate homeowners to do away with their furnishings that feel ordinary and uninspired and replace them with ones that leave their homes feeling rejuvenated and enticing. If you're ready to breathe new life into your living spaces this spring, the trusted Star Furniture design team is here to help you every step of the way. Check out these spring-inspired furniture trends that can help you get started.

Understanding Seasonal Trends 

Staying on top of seasonal trends is a great way to help your home consistently feel fresh and contemporary.Of course, it's best to have an understanding of what exactly these trends are before embarking on a seasonal decor update. While each new year is sure to bring an array of interior design trends that come and go, certain seasonal trends will always be in style. Some timeless spring home decor trends that will help your home feel fabulous year after year include:

Selecting Seasonal Pieces for the Living Room 

Incorporating spring-inspired pieces in your living room is a surefire way to create a bright, airy atmosphere. When looking for living room furniture that embodies the best that spring has to offer, consider choosing pieces that are soft, light, and inviting. Natural fabrics, such as linen and cotton, and materials, such as wood and stone, can effortlessly bring your spring living room dreams to life. Likewise, be sure to bring in pieces that bring in visual texture to give your living room dimension while staying true to the understated elegance of springtime. 

To help make your seasonal living room come to life in a snap, the Star Furniture experts are here to help. Check out some of our favorite living room furnishings that will add a touch of spring to every area of the space:

Revitalizing the Bedroom 

Bedrooms are perhaps the most appropriate space to decorate with the inspirations of spring to enjoy all year round. The soft colors, natural elements, and welcoming nature of spring are all features that make for a calm, comfortable bedroom. With this in mind, don't hesitate to go all-in by designing your room in the best that spring has to offer. Along with replacing dark, bulky bedroom furniture with pieces that are soft and light, don't forget to consider a bright, airy color palette. By incorporating a few impactful pieces in your bedroom, you can easily help the space feel more tranquil and refreshing. Here are some of the Star Furniture designers' favorite spring-inspired bedroom furniture to help you feel inspired:

Dining Room Refresh 

Just because the holiday season has come to an end doesn't mean that you have to stop entertaining. Springtime is a wonderful time to host intimate gatherings and casual get-togethers with your loved ones. What better reason is there, then, to spruce up your dining room with some fresh spring-inspired furnishings? When it comes to embracing springtime in your dining room, it's all about making your guests feel like your home is their own. The best way to accomplish this is to utilize pieces that feel more casual than refined. Then, make the room your own with centerpieces that are laid-back yet personal, such as placing some flowers from your yard in a mason jar. Check out these spring-inspired dining room pieces that the Star Furniture pros love and you will, too:

Accentuating with Accessories 

The furnishings in your home aren't the only features that can make it burst with springtime joy and style. The accessories you use can have a major impact in terms of refreshing your living spaces with spring-inspired decor. Sometimes, even the most minute detail can have the biggest impact on the way a room looks and feels. With this in mind, be sure to incorporate spring accessories throughout every area of your home to create the refreshing, inviting ambiance you have in mind. Some of these include:

Welcome Spring into Your Home with Star Furniture

Springtime is a wonderful opportunity to mix things up and create living spaces that are both beautiful and welcoming, decorating decisions you'll enjoy all year round. If it's been a while since you've revamped an area of your home, the friendly designers at Star Furniture are here to encourage you to embrace change and give your home the upgrade that it deserves. Stop by our showroom location or visit us online today to get started!

There’s something about spring that gets people excited to embrace change. The newfound warmth and freshness in the air are enough to motivate homeowners to do away with their furnishings that feel ordinary and uninspired and replace them with ones that leave their homes feeling rejuvenated and enticing. If you’re ready to breathe new life […]

black and white traditional upholstered bedroom vignette with bright, sunny feel

Traditional home decor has become the backbone of interior design trends of decades past. Filled with rich wood furniture, neutral color schemes, and matching sets, traditional design offers a sense of familiarity and comfort to people of all ages. Modern home decor, on the other hand, emphasizes clean lines, pleasing geometric shapes, and effortless simplicity. It focuses on using fewer pieces of furniture with the intention to put together living spaces that feel bright, open, and airy. 

While at first glance traditional and modern home decor seem to be vastly different, when strategically curated, they can work together to create a harmonious blend of old and new pieces. If you're looking to breathe new life into your home by giving your living spaces a modern update while paying homage to your tried and true traditional furnishings, the trusted Star Furniture design team is here to help. Check out these simple tips to get started.

The Allure of Traditional Furniture

As interior design trends come and go, there's one home decor style that will always have a place in our hearts (and our homes). Traditional decor offers a timeless style and effortless comfort that makes it easy to incorporate it into virtually any space. While traditional decor can encompass a wide range of furnishings and accessories, there are some common themes that you can expect to see in any traditionally decorated room, such as:

The classic yet stately design of traditional furniture, including dining room tables, sofas, and beds, makes them a natural focal point for the rooms they're in. Traditional furnishings don't aim to impress you in terms of creativity or trendiness; instead, they offer a familiar, comfortable, inviting aesthetic that can be the ideal backdrop for a family home.

Introducing Modern Elements 

For homeowners who crave living spaces that are simple, open, and uncluttered, modern home decor is a great option. This interior design style has grown in popularity thanks to its subtle charm and fresh details. Modern home decor uses every piece of furniture and accessory for a specific purpose, doing away with any item or detail that isn't necessary. The result is living spaces that are sleek, well-organized, and endearing.

If you're interested in bringing furnishings into your home that are inspired by this sought-after design style, be sure to look for pieces with these distinct features:

While modern home decor is known for being unfussy, it's important to note that it doesn't come off as stark or cold. On the contrary, living spaces that embody a modern atmosphere feel fresh, current, and welcoming. Each piece serves a specific purpose, making modern-inspired rooms as practical as they are comfortable and attractive.

Choosing Your Base: Selecting Traditional Pieces 

When it comes to mixing traditional and modern furnishings within your home, the best approach is to take it one step at a time, piece by piece. Rather than randomly pairing different items together, it's a good idea to create a foundation with the furniture in the space, and then pull the look together with accessories.

The stateliness and undeniable presence of traditional furnishings make them the ideal starting point for nearly any room in your home. If you're searching for the perfect traditional pieces to welcome into your home, be sure to shop with a trusted furniture store, such as Star Furniture, so that you'll know they're made with quality and comfort in mind. Here are some of the Star Furniture design team's favorite traditional pieces for every room in your home:

Modern Twists on Classic Designs 

Once you have created the foundation for a space in your home with quality traditional furniture, it's time to freshen it up with some modern pieces. When it comes to putting a twist on traditional home decor by incorporating modern touches, it's important to find the right balance. Rather than overwhelming your living spaces with modern pieces that clash with the timeless aesthetic of your traditional furnishings, the juxtaposition of the two should let each item shine in a way that feels fresh and visually appealing.

One way to put a modern spin on the traditional furnishings you adore is to breathe new life into them with some modern upgrades. It's important to remember that just because a particular piece may be considered an antique or vintage doesn't necessarily mean that it must be preserved in its original condition. It's perfectly acceptable to reimagine how your grandmother's antique side table or a dresser you found at the thrift store could be elevated. Keep these simple tips in mind to give a traditional piece of furniture a modern update:

Changing up the appearance of your traditional furniture with modern touches isn't the only way to combine classic and modern home decor. Pairing traditional and modern pieces can also help your living spaces feel refreshed and up-to-date. To mix and match interior design styles like a professional, check out these tips from the trusted Star Furniture designers:

white tufted sofa in traditional living room furniture vignette

Balancing Color and Texture 

One of the biggest challenges that comes with bringing together traditional and modern furnishings together in a way that feels balanced and cohesive is choosing the appropriate color palette. Even with its understated simplicity, contemporary color schemes can often be more vibrant and distinct than the ones of decades past. If you're struggling with how to curate colorful living spaces that feel intentional and harmonious, have no fear. The trusted design team at Star Furniture can help you use color and texture in your home like an expert. Here's how:

Color can sometimes be used to bring an unexpected flair to your living spaces while helping traditional and modern pieces work together. When in doubt, however, you can't go wrong by sticking to a neutral color palette. Combining the richness of the dark wood furniture found in traditional home decor and the lightness that comes from white upholstery, metal features, and earth tones in modern decor can easily come together to create living spaces that feel homey and inviting.

Accessorizing with a Modern Edge

One of the simplest ways to marry traditional and modern furnishings in a way that feels authentic is to pair traditional furniture with modern accessories. This is especially practical if your home is already decorated with traditional pieces and you're striving to give it a modern spin. Check out these tips from the Star Furniture experts to add a modern edge to your living spaces with the right accessories:

Spotlight on Innovation: Modern Materials and Techniques 

Gone are the days when furniture was made exclusively from wood, metal, or glass. Modern furnishings no longer describe exclusively their appearance; it can also refer to how a piece is made. Innovative manufacturing techniques have made it easier than ever to achieve specific styles, functionality, and durability. Because of this, you can bring the visual appeal of traditional home decor into your living spaces with superior features. For instance, wood can be engineered in a number of different ways, such as plywood, veneers, and fiberboard, to achieve particular results.

While it looks as beautiful and natural as solid wood, engineered wood can offer features that solid wood cannot, including being water resistant and immune to warping in humid conditions. Additionally, investing in faux woods rather than traditional wood gives you the option of incorporating the appearance of wood grain on furniture but in colors that you wouldn't be able to find in nature, such as varying shades of gray.

Modern home decor encompasses so many other types of materials than merely engineered wood. Metal also works beautifully in modern living spaces, helping them bring in the clean lines, sharp corners, and sought-after shine that homeowners are drawn to. When it comes to pairing different modern materials with traditional pieces, the sky's the limit. Just remember that the furnishings you group together should complement each other in terms of scale, color, and overall style. Your home decor should seamlessly flow together, not compete for attention.

Add a Modern Touch to Your Traditional Furniture with Star Furniture

Who says you can't have it all? If you love the comfort and familiarity that comes with traditional home decor but would also love to put a modern touch on your living spaces, the trusted design team at Star Furniture is here to help. By taking the time to balance colors and textures, choose pieces that work together rather than compete, and repurposing your traditional furniture when possible, you'll be well on your way to creating a home that is personal, stylish, and inviting. To find everything you need to get started on bringing timeless charm and modernized flair to your home, including modern coffee tables, visit us online today!

Traditional home decor has become the backbone of interior design trends of decades past. Filled with rich wood furniture, neutral color schemes, and matching sets, traditional design offers a sense of familiarity and comfort to people of all ages. Modern home decor, on the other hand, emphasizes clean lines, pleasing geometric shapes, and effortless simplicity. […]

Everyone wants to live in a home that's beautiful, comfortable, and functional. Of course, a well-designed space doesn't happen by chance!

With so many decorating shows, sites, magazines, and more available at our fingertips, it's easier than ever to take decorating into your own hands and create living spaces like a professional. While this is true, even the most well-intentioned home decorator can go awry without the proper professional guidance from time to time.

If you've experienced a decorating pitfall on your journey to the home of your dreams, you're not alone. The Star Furniture design team has seen its fair share of home decor missteps over the years. Decorating mistakes can be learning experiences for homeowners. That said, how much better to learn from the pros and avoid costly missteps in the first place? Star Furniture is here to help. Check out the 7 biggest decorating mistakes design pros see every day and what you can do to avoid them. 

Mistake 1: Ignoring Scale and Proportion 

Too often, people bring a piece of furniture home without ever considering its size compared to the room where they intend to put it. As a result, it's common for furnishings to be too large or too small for the space. No matter how stylish or practical a piece of furniture may be, if it's disproportionate to its surroundings, it will assuredly disrupt the harmony of the entire room. Furniture that's too big for a room will make it appear small and closed in while furniture that's too small for a room can get lost and feel awkward. 

With this in mind, it's well worth your time to measure the room that you're decorating before introducing any new furnishings as well as each piece that you bring home. This simple step will ensure that you don't waste time, money, and effort investing in furniture that isn't the best option for your home. To prevent the unfortunate situation of bringing home a sofa that's too big for your living room or a dining room table that's too small, keep these helpful tips in mind from the design pros at Star Furniture:

Mistake 2: Overmatching Everything 

When you're decorating a room in your home on your own, it can be tempting to go to a furniture store and buy an entire living room or bedroom set right off the showroom floor. The thought behind this approach is that there's no question about whether or not a group of furnishings go together; they're all made from the same materials and conceived as a unified group.

It's true that matching everything in a space is an easy way to put together a space, but while you might take the risk and guesswork out of home design, you also lose the personality and warmth. An overmatched room doesn't merely look outdated, it can also look flat and uninspired. If you'd like your living spaces to look like they were curated by a professional designer (and who doesn't?), it's much more effective to play with texture, color, and patterns to achieve a look that is dynamic and unique.

Mixing patterns and prints doesn't always come naturally for everyone and that's okay. The Star Furniture design team has some tried and true tips to help you put together rooms that are cohesive, balanced, and, most importantly, interesting:

Mistake 3: Neglecting Lighting 

There's nothing more lackluster than a well-decorated room that is dark or not properly illuminated. Unfortunately, this is one decorating blunder that the Star Furniture designers encounter frequently. Either a room is lit up by one inadequate overhead light fixture or an assortment of lamps that serve no specific purpose. This causes otherwise beautiful homes to look small, dark, and dated.

The lighting in your home will play a major role in its appearance and ambiance. Because of this, lighting fixtures should be incorporated strategically, not haphazardly. If you know the lighting in your home could use a facelift but aren't sure where to begin, the trusted design team at Star Furniture has you covered. Keep these practical tips in mind to utilize the lighting in your home like a pro:

Mistake 4: Forgetting Functionality 

Your home should be a place where your life can be comfortably lived. If your home is decorated in such a way that it's always ready for a photoshoot but you're too scared to mess something up to relax or entertain in it, something has to give. After all, what good is a house that you can't truly live in? 

For this reason, be sure to prioritize functionality when thinking about how you'd like to decorate a room in your home. Luckily, it's possible to balance aesthetic appeal with practical needs. Beautiful homes can also be livable. To help make every area of your home as functional as they are attractive, here are some tips from the interior designers at Star Furniture:

Mistake 5: Playing It Too Safe with Color 

Decorating with color can be a daunting task. Even folks who appreciate bold, playful colors can be overwhelmed by the thought of trying to decide which colors to pair together and how. Unfortunately, this can lead homeowners to play it too safe with color, leaving their living spaces feeling bland and stark. You don't have to take a shot in the dark and hope you get lucky to decorate with color in a way that's compelling and fresh. On the contrary, it's possible for everyday homeowners to use color with confidence in every area of their home. The Star Furniture experts are here to show you how:

Mistake 6: Hanging Art Incorrectly 

There's a reason that art looks stunning in rooms coordinated by professional designers. It's not just that they choose pieces that perfectly complement the surrounding decor (although that's certainly part of it). The secret is understanding how to properly hang wall art so that it elevates the space.

The wall hangings you incorporate into your home should be as intentional as any other furnishing or accessory. Finding a photograph or painting endearing is not reason enough to display it front and center in your living room. On the contrary, there are guidelines for displaying wall art that can help you take your home's overall style to the next level. Check out these tips from the trusted Star Furniture team to hang the art in your home properly:

Mistake 7: Clutter and Lack of Focus 

The quickest way to take away from the visual appeal of any room in your home, big or small, is to clutter it up with unnecessary pieces. Whether it's a stack of books on your nightstand, a pile of clothes draped over your armchair, or random knick-knacks strewn about your living room, clutter can single handedly sabotage even the most style-forward living spaces. Oftentimes, homeowners don't even realize how cluttered certain areas of their homes have become because they've grown so accustomed to disorganization. 

Once you recognize that your house is cluttered, the hardest part is behind you. You can then move forward in letting go of the items that are holding your home back from reaching its full potential both aesthetically and functionally. Of course, decluttering isn't always easy, especially if you have a lot of things to get rid of. For this reason, the Star Furniture design team has some helpful tips to ensure your decluttering journey goes as smoothly as possible:

Decorate Your Home Like a Professional with Star Furniture

From ignoring the scale of a room and overmatching everything to not lighting rooms properly and hanging wall art incorrectly, the design team at Star Furniture has seen every home decorating mistake under the sun. Luckily, this means that we're well-equipped to help you overcome them if you encounter one for yourself. If you're trying to put together rooms that look like they were professionally curated but are somehow falling flat, we're here to help. Stop by our showroom today to learn more about how you can gain a balanced, informed perspective by working with a Star Furniture designer.

Everyone wants to live in a home that’s beautiful, comfortable, and functional. Of course, a well-designed space doesn’t happen by chance! With so many decorating shows, sites, magazines, and more available at our fingertips, it’s easier than ever to take decorating into your own hands and create living spaces like a professional. While this is […]

vibrantly colored, bohemian style room with new mattress set up on adjustable base

When was the last time that you woke up feeling refreshed, energized, and ready to take on the day? If you regularly roll out of bed tired, sluggish, and wishing you could hit the snooze button one more time, your mattress may be to blame. Getting a good night's sleep is one of the most important factors that can improve the way you feel in the short term and your overall health in the long run. 

It's no surprise, then, that the quality and condition of your mattress can have a major impact on how well you sleep night after night. Unfortunately, too many homeowners put off buying a new mattress. What you may not know is that shopping for a new mattress is an experience in self-discovery as you think (and dream) about your personal sleep habits.

If your mattress isn't doing you any favors in terms of providing comfort and support, don't postpone replacing it with one that does. The trusted design team at Star Furniture can help you navigate the many mattress options available today so that you find the perfect one for your unique sleep needs. Here are the five critical questions to ask yourself before buying a new mattress.

Question 1: What is My Sleeping Position? 

When it's time to pick out a new mattress, it's common for homeowners to  consider their options based on the way the mattress feels. There's no question that this is an important part of mattress shopping, but it's certainly not the only one. The first thing to consider before you begin reading online mattress reviews or trying out mattresses in a trusted furniture store is to identify your preferred sleeping position. Knowing how you sleep at night is the first step in understanding which areas of your body need extra support and comfort. 

The best way to determine your preferred sleeping position is to pay attention to how you're lying down when you fall asleep and wake up. Are you on your back, stomach, or side? If you lie primarily on your back, chances are that a lot of pressure gets put on your lower back while you slumber. For this reason, it's important to avoid a mattress that's too firm that won't accommodate the natural curve of the spine. Likewise, a mattress that's too soft won't give enough support, which can lead to aches over time. Instead, back sleepers should look for mattresses with medium support with moderate contouring, such as this one.

Like back sleepers, stomach sleepers also tend to put pressure on their lower spine, especially as their back is forced into a U-shape with mattresses that are too soft. Firm mattresses are best for stomach sleepers, such as this one; be sure to choose one that doesn't feel too hot as you lie face down on the mattress. Side sleepers experience pressure on their shoulders and hips. Mattresses that are too firm may be uncomfortable while ones that are too soft can cause your spine to be misaligned as you sleep. Medium support mattresses are the best option for side sleepers, such as this one.

Question 2: What Firmness Level Do I Need? 

If you think that every mattress is created the same, think again. Mattresses come in a variety of firmness levels, which essentially means how firm or soft they feel. To help categorize the comfort and support of a mattress, a firmness scale from 1-10 is used. Ultimately, the mattress that you find to be comfortable may not feel the same way to another individual. Comfort is, after all, an individual preference. Still, the firmness scale can group together certain types of mattresses so that you can narrow down the ones that are best for you. Here's what you need to know about mattress firmness before you begin shopping for mattresses:

While the firmness chart can be beneficial in helping point you in the right direction of which mattress would be best for you based on your weight and preferred sleeping position, it's not foolproof. At the end of the day, the mattress that is right for you is the one that you find to be most comfortable. The best way to find the one that feels good to you is to try it out for yourself in a trusted furniture store, such as Star Furniture. Rather than lying down on the mattress and quickly hopping off of it, be sure to stay on the mattress for at least 10 minutes, changing positions along the way, to ensure that you get a good idea of whether or not you find it comfortable and supportive.

close-up shot of female hand testing the firmness of a dark grey colored mattress

Question 3: What is My Budget? 

When considering furniture investments that offer exceptional value for your money, nothing surpasses the benefits of a quality mattress. After all, you'll undoubtedly use it every single day. For this reason, investing in a quality mattress that feels great, provides the support your body needs, and will last for years without breaking down is essential. Once you have started shopping for mattresses, you'll quickly notice that they can vastly range in price. While some cost hundreds of dollars, others can exceed a couple thousand. To help you stay within range of your particular budget while still meeting your unique sleep needs, the Star Furniture team is here to help you set a realistic budget when shopping for your ideal mattress. Here's what you need to know:

Just as no one can tell you which mattress is the best suited for your unique comfort needs, only you can determine what an appropriate budget to spend on your mattress looks like. It's important to remember that you get what you pay for in terms of quality, comfort, and durability. It may be worth spending a bit more than you initially anticipated to get the good night's sleep you deserve while preventing the need to replace your mattress again after a year or two of use. 

Question 4: Do I Have Any Specific Health or Allergy Considerations? 

While investing in a quality mattress can play a role in preventing you from experiencing health issues due to poor or uncomfortable sleep in the future, the right mattress can also help you manage the health conditions you have currently. If you have a health issue that can be impacted by the type of mattress you have, be sure to keep your specific needs in mind as you shop. 

For many people, a major concern when shopping for a new mattress is reducing back pain. If you suffer from chronic lower back pain, you're not alone. While your outdated or uncomfortable mattress may be contributing to the severity of your discomfort, the good news is that a mattress with medium support will likely provide the comfort you crave along with the right amount of support to keep your back properly aligned while you sleep. It's best to avoid firm mattresses that won't allow your back to naturally bend as well as soft mattresses that fail to provide adequate support.

Another common health concern that is worth considering when purchasing a new mattress is allergies. If you're sensitive to certain allergens, the last thing you need is your mattress contributing to watery eyes, sneezing, and any other uncomfortable symptoms you may experience. Fortunately, there is a large variety of mattresses available on the market that are composed of hypoallergenic materials that can allow you to sleep in comfort without making your allergies worse. Looking for mattresses that are organic or green will ensure that your mattress is free from harsh chemicals that could irritate your allergies. To be sure that a mattress truly is organic or eco-friendly, look for the proper certifications, including GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standards) or CertiPUR-US.

Question 5: What Size and Type of Mattress Do I Need? 

If you've recently been mattress shopping, you know that there are countless options to choose from. Along with coming in lots of different sizes, mattresses are also composed of a variety of materials, depending on the desired comfort level, support, and special features. Knowing what the common mattress terminology means will help make your mattress shopping experience go as smoothly as possible. Here's what you need to know about the most common sizes of mattresses:

The material that makes up your mattress will determine how soft or firm it feels, how much support it provides to your pressure points, and how well it holds up over time. Here are some of the most common types of mattress materials:

Additional Considerations 

As you search for mattresses online and try them out for yourself at Star Furniture, you may notice other features that you hadn't considered before. Some of these include:

Find Your Perfect Mattress at Star Furniture

Shopping for mattresses isn't the time to randomly choose one that looks good or is on sale. On the contrary, it's well worth your time and effort to do your research and consult the experts at Star Furniture to ensure that you get the right mattress for you. Asking yourself these five questions before bringing a new mattress home is the best way to make sure you find a mattress that helps you get a good night's sleep for years to come. Visit us online to start your mattress shopping journey today!

When was the last time that you woke up feeling refreshed, energized, and ready to take on the day? If you regularly roll out of bed tired, sluggish, and wishing you could hit the snooze button one more time, your mattress may be to blame. Getting a good night’s sleep is one of the most […]

bright, sunny living room furniture vignette in traditional, wooden style

When it comes to designing your dream home, every room has an important role to play. The dining room is no exception, acting as a space for families to reconvene over a delicious meal - devices off!

In years past, dining rooms were quite formal and pristine, and perhaps didn’t get the frequent use they deserve. For this reason, dining rooms as we once knew them have transformed into more casual, user-friendly spaces for many families. While the function and ambiance of dining rooms have changed over time, these living spaces have become more important than ever as families have less and less time to spend with one another due to work, appointments, extracurricular activities, and more.

At Star Furniture, our trusted design experts want to help you make the most of your dining room. We're here to guide you through incorporating progressive decorating techniques and understanding how to select quality dining room furniture. Here's what you need to know to create the perfect contemporary dining room, piece by piece.

Understanding Your Space 

Before you begin your dining room decorating journey, it's important to assess the space that you'll be working with. As many homes move away from traditional floor plans, it's more common than ever to see separate dining rooms being replaced with dining areas that seamlessly spill into other living spaces, such as the living room or kitchen. Regardless of whether your dining area is its own distinct room or part of a larger space, be sure to take note of its size and shape. Don't be afraid to break out your tape measure and record the precise measurements of the space, so that you'll know exactly how much room you have to work with when it comes to purchasing new furnishings.

Likewise, ask yourself if the lighting in the space could be improved. If the lighting in your dining room is too dim, it could impact the overall aesthetic of the space as you bring in new pieces. On the other hand, it will be difficult to achieve a warm, intimate ambiance if the lighting is too bright. Document this along with the measurements to keep in mind when you're browsing trusted furniture stores and sites, such as Star Furniture.

Selecting the Right Dining Table 

There's no question that the star of the show in your dining room is your dining room table. This is the place where meals are shared, special occasions are celebrated, and the events of everyday life unfold with family and guests alike. Because of this, it's critical to choose a dining room table that can act as the foundation of all of the meaningful moments in your life. The ideal dining room table is attractive and able to hold its own as the focal point in the room. It should also be spacious enough for your loved ones to gather around comfortably, durable enough to wear well over the years, and practical enough to be used every day.

Take one step in a furniture store and you'll quickly see that dining room tables come in all shapes, sizes, and styles. Narrowing down which one works best in your home can be a daunting task, which is why the Star Furniture pros have broken down the different styles to make your shopping experience as smooth as possible. Here's what you need to know:

Along with the different styles of dining room tables, these furnishings also come in many different shapes. To choose the best shape for your dining room, keep these tips in mind:

Chairs and Seating Arrangements 

Once you have the perfect dining room table, it's time to select the right dining chairs. Consider that going with a matching dining set can take the guesswork out of pairing tables and chairs. On the other hand, buying these pieces separately can help you achieve a look that's personalized to your unique style and comfort preferences. Like dining room tables, dining room chairs come in an array of styles and sizes. When it comes to pairing these furniture pieces, it's best to follow a few tips from the experienced team at Star Furniture. Here's what you need to know before you begin shopping for chairs:

After you narrow down your search to a few dining room chairs that would work well with your table and within the space, don't forget to see how they feel. The appearance of your chairs is certainly important, but so is their comfort. Having comfy chairs in your dining room will encourage your loved ones to partake in delightful meals and meaningful conversations every time they sit at your table. Because comfort and pitch are so important in dining chair selection, it is best to personally take a seat before you buy. Shopping in person is highly recommended. Star Furniture designers, for example, can help you find dining chairs that look good AND feel good.

Storage and Display Furniture 

A great dining room table and chairs are a great and obvious way to start our progressive dining decorating plan, but what about the other furniture within the space? Most dining rooms will also include serving pieces to display and store serving ware. The type of furniture you should incorporate into your dining room depends on how much space you have as well as what you intend to use it for. Keep these tips in mind when deciding which storage and display furniture is best for your home:

To make your china cabinet a focal point of your dining room, be sure to style it strategically. Add visual intrigue by layering some plates and saucers, while displaying others leaning up against the back of the cabinet. Mix in glass and metallic pieces for a pop of sparkle and shine. Store bulky pieces toward the bottom, being sure to leave plenty of space between items, so it doesn't appear cluttered. 

casual, contemporary 5-piece dining set vignette with pendant lamp hanging overhead

Setting the Table 

Knowing how to properly set your dining room table is an important skill that every homeowner should learn. A well-dressed table will set the tone for every meal you share with others in your home, making each person feel welcome. Fortunately, setting a table for casual and formal occasions is easier than you might think. Here's what you need to know to set your table like a professional:

Lighting Your Dining Room 

The lighting fixtures that you use in your dining room will set the tone for how the entire room feels. Just as all of your dining room furniture will work together to convey a specific atmosphere, so does your choice of lighting. Chandeliers are a traditional lighting solution that works beautifully in dining rooms. They also come in a variety of styles to suit your personal preferences. Pendant lights, on the other hand, can bring a contemporary touch to your dining room while ensuring it's adequately illuminated.

For an understated yet elevated aesthetic, consider incorporating wall sconces that can add soft lighting and sophistication to virtually any dining area. No matter what type of light fixtures you choose to decorate your dining room with, make sure that you can control how bright or dim they are. This way you can always customize the brightness of the space to help you achieve the perfect amount of light for any occasion. 

Adding Personal Touches 

Adding personal touches is the next essential consideration in your progressive dining room decorating experience. While the furniture you use to decorate your dining room will play a critical role in helping you achieve a particular ambiance, the small details within the space are the ones that will truly make it feel special. With this in mind, the Star Furniture designers are here to help you pull your dining room together with personal touches and accessories. Keep these tips in mind:

Make the Most of Your Dining Room with Star Furniture

If you've always dreamed of having a beautiful dining room where eating and entertaining is a pleasure, the trusted Star Furniture design team is here to help make your dream a reality. Creating a clear vision of what you'd like to see, then thoughtfully choosing your dining room furniture piece by piece can help you create an attractive, updated and functional dining room that your family and guests will adore. Visit us online or stop by our showroom location to get started on finding your perfect dining room table, chairs, serving pieces, and more!

When it comes to designing your dream home, every room has an important role to play. The dining room is no exception, acting as a space for families to reconvene over a delicious meal – devices off! In years past, dining rooms were quite formal and pristine, and perhaps didn’t get the frequent use they […]

dark green, tufted leather sofa in living room surrounded by wooden furniture pieces, such as a coffee table and side table

When you first move into a home, it's easy to feel enamored by your new space. Everything's fresh and new - like the so-called 'honeymoon phase' in a romantic relationship. From your home decor choices to your perspective, basking in the joy and satisfaction of your living spaces is virtually effortless. Like any long-term relationship, however, the newness of the crush wears off! The good news is that reigniting the passion for your home is possible with a few simple interior design changes. The Star Furniture pros are here to help you on your journey of rediscovery and romance with your home. Check out these 6 tips to rekindle the romance in your living spaces.

Assess and Appreciate 

Before you begin revamping an area of your home, it's important to assess what you currently love about your house. Perhaps you're happy with the wall color in your living room or the draperies in your dining room. Or maybe you have a particular architectural feature that you'd love to highlight, such as a fireplace. 

If you're struggling to pinpoint the features in your home that you appreciate, think about the aspects that made you fall in love with it when you first moved in. Once you've identified a few of your favorite things, be sure to write them down or take a photograph. This will give you a baseline to work from as you work through the decorating process.

Declutter and Organize 

It's hard to feel drawn to a room that's messy and cluttered. When your home is disorganized and over-crowded, chances are that your living spaces look smaller, darker, and less inviting. On the other hand, when your home is clutter-free and organized, it will undoubtedly feel more spacious, bright, and enticing. 

With this in mind, it's worth considering what items need to leave your house before you can think about introducing new furnishings. Taking the time to declutter your home is a simple step that can have a tremendous positive impact on the way virtually any space in your home looks and feels. Here are some tips to help you get organized:

Refresh with Color 

It's no secret that color can have a dramatic effect on the way you feel in a room. If there's an area of your home that you dread spending time in, the color scheme may be to blame. Consider that even your favorite colors might not be the best option when redesigning your home. For instance, dark colors can sometimes make a small room feel even smaller. Likewise, bold colors, such as red or orange, could make you feel more alert than relaxed, which may not be ideal in rooms like your bedroom. 

When it comes to creating living spaces that help you feel relaxed, comfortable, and inspired, the color palette you choose is significant. You can't go wrong with tasteful neutrals, such as cream, white, gray, or tan, on everything from your wall color and sofa to your bedspread and area rug. Looking to add a pop of color? Stick with soft colors that complement your existing furniture, such as this sage green ottoman

Rearrange and Repurpose 

No one is more critical of a home than the person who lives there. In most cases, the state of a homeowner's furniture and home decor isn't as bad as they think it is. A space may just need to be viewed from a different perspective to be appreciated. Fresh starts are exciting and can sometimes be as simple as looking at the space and your possession with fresh eyes. Ask yourself how you might rearrange or repurpose items to add new life.

When you see the same room day after day, it can sometimes be a challenge to imagine it any differently. If this is the case for you, don't hesitate to ask a Star Furniture designer for guidance. They can offer a fresh perspective, such as pulling your sofa away from the wall or hanging your curtains higher to create the illusion of a room being bigger than it is.

Invest in Key Pieces 

If you think that every room in your home has to be filled with an array of extravagant pieces to achieve a beautiful aesthetic, think again. On the contrary, a few quality statement pieces in each room may be just what you need to create a home where every space feels thoughtful and stylish. While just about any piece can be used as a focal point, investing in key pieces that will act as the anchor in terms of appearance and functionality is the way to go according to the Star Furniture experts. For instance, choosing a bed that's as attractive as it is comfortable can effortlessly enhance your bedroom. Similarly, placing the focus primarily on the sectional in your living room can help streamline your decorating journey while still ending with an amazing result.

Add Personal Touches

At the end of the day, homeowners feel most satisfied and at ease in their homes when their living spaces feel like their own. Sure, quality furniture and beautiful accessories are a good place to start, but every space requires a personal touch to truly feel like a home (more importantly, your home). With this in mind, don't be afraid to personalize every area of your home with pieces that reflect your unique taste, style, and experiences. Place meaningful photographs on your bookshelf, pair family heirlooms with new pieces for a playful twist, and incorporate knick-knacks from your travels to create rooms that don't merely look fabulous but feel familiar. You'll look forward to spending time and hosting friends in a house that's filled with everything you love.

Fall In Love with Your Home Again with Star Furniture

Just because the love you once felt for your home may be dwindling, doesn't mean that you can't get it back. With a few simple steps and some help from the experienced design team at Star Furniture, you'll be well on your way to feeling passionate about where you live once again. Visit us online to check out our large selection of wall art, storage solutions, statement pieces and more!

When you first move into a home, it’s easy to feel enamored by your new space. Everything’s fresh and new – like the so-called ‘honeymoon phase’ in a romantic relationship. From your home decor choices to your perspective, basking in the joy and satisfaction of your living spaces is virtually effortless. Like any long-term relationship, […]

traditional style bedroom furniture vignette featuring an upholstered bed frame and glossy wooden dresser with mirror.

A tranquil home is a happy home. Taking the time to design a space that feels like a sanctuary can support a sense of ease in all areas of your life.  Regardless of your interior decorating style, anyone can create a home that feels like a personalized retreat with the right pieces of furniture. Check out these 8 essential design elements from the trusted Star Furniture design team to help you create a serene sanctuary at home.

The Concept of Serenity in Interior Design 

The outside world can sometimes be stressful and overwhelming; your home shouldn't be. At the end of the day, everyone wants a home that is as serene as it is beautiful. A serene home is one that effortlessly promotes relaxation, comfort, and peace. No one wants to feel on edge or overwhelmed when they walk into their home at the end of a long day. Instead, they want to feel as though their living spaces are offering them a warm embrace, away from the troubles that exist outside their front door.

The good news is that every person has the power to design the calm, welcoming home their heart desires. With a little direction from the Star Furniture experts, you can intentionally curate rooms that promote relaxation, comfort, and functionality. Then you'll be well on your way to transforming your ordinary home into a stress-free oasis that you look forward to spending time in with your family and friends.

The Perfect Bed: A Restful Retreat 

When designing your serene home sanctuary, it's always best to start out with a comfortable and stylish bed. Your bed should feel fabulous and look attractive to give you the rejuvenating experience you deserve every time you lie down on it.

Of course, beauty and comfort are subjective. Your personal preferences will help determine which type of bed you bring home. That being said, here are a few tips from the Star Furniture pros that can help you make the process of creating your dream bed easier. Check them out:

Cozy Seating: Sofas and Chairs 

Whether you're lounging in your bedroom, enjoying a meal around your dining room table, or entertaining guests in your living room, having a variety of comfy places to have a seat in your tranquil home is essential. Stylish seating arrangements can certainly make your living spaces look attractive, but at the end of the day, the way your armchairs, dining room chairs, sofas, and other seating arrangements look don't matter if they don't feel cozy when you sit on them.

When looking for seating options that invite you to take a load off, keep your eyes open for soft upholstery, plush cushions, and a supportive design. Trying different chairs and sofas out for yourself in person is the best way to ensure that each seat offers optimal comfort and support. Sometimes buying a new chair, sofa, or sectional from a trusted showroom, such as Star Furniture, isn't an option. In this case, be sure to read plenty of reviews from verified customers to guarantee that your new seating arrangement isn't merely charming but also cozy and relaxing. Check out these furnishings from Star Furniture that are sure add a touch of comfort to any space in your home:

Serene Lighting: Lamps and Fixtures 

If you're striving to create living spaces that feel calm and tranquil, the light sources you incorporate into your home matter. Consider that not every lighting solution is created equally. Some fixtures offer light that is bright and harsh while others create a soft, warm ambiance. To make sure that every area of your home is properly lit, it's important to identify what each space will be used for. You won't need the same type of lighting in your kitchen where you need to see clearly as you cook as you will in your bedroom where you go to rest and relax. 

Here are some tips from the trusted team at Star Furniture to help you enhance the serenity of your home with the right lighting solutions:

living room furniture vignette with contemporary sofas and ottomans. bright, sunny feel.

A tranquil home is a happy home. Taking the time to design a space that feels like a sanctuary can support a sense of ease in all areas of your life.  Regardless of your interior decorating style, anyone can create a home that feels like a personalized retreat with the right pieces of furniture. Check out these 8 essential design elements from the trusted Star Furniture design team to help you create a serene sanctuary at home.

The Concept of Serenity in Interior Design 

The outside world can sometimes be stressful and overwhelming; your home shouldn't be. At the end of the day, everyone wants a home that is as serene as it is beautiful. A serene home is one that effortlessly promotes relaxation, comfort, and peace. No one wants to feel on edge or overwhelmed when they walk into their home at the end of a long day. Instead, they want to feel as though their living spaces are offering them a warm embrace, away from the troubles that exist outside their front door.

The good news is that every person has the power to design the calm, welcoming home their heart desires. With a little direction from the Star Furniture experts, you can intentionally curate rooms that promote relaxation, comfort, and functionality. Then you'll be well on your way to transforming your ordinary home into a stress-free oasis that you look forward to spending time in with your family and friends.

The Perfect Bed: A Restful Retreat 

When designing your serene home sanctuary, it's always best to start out with a comfortable and stylish bed. Your bed should feel fabulous and look attractive to give you the rejuvenating experience you deserve every time you lie down on it.

Of course, beauty and comfort are subjective. Your personal preferences will help determine which type of bed you bring home. That being said, here are a few tips from the Star Furniture pros that can help you make the process of creating your dream bed easier. Check them out:

Cozy Seating: Sofas and Chairs 

Whether you're lounging in your bedroom, enjoying a meal around your dining room table, or entertaining guests in your living room, having a variety of comfy places to have a seat in your tranquil home is essential. Stylish seating arrangements can certainly make your living spaces look attractive, but at the end of the day, the way your armchairs, dining room chairs, sofas, and other seating arrangements look don't matter if they don't feel cozy when you sit on them.

When looking for seating options that invite you to take a load off, keep your eyes open for soft upholstery, plush cushions, and a supportive design. Trying different chairs and sofas out for yourself in person is the best way to ensure that each seat offers optimal comfort and support. Sometimes buying a new chair, sofa, or sectional from a trusted showroom, such as Star Furniture, isn't an option. In this case, be sure to read plenty of reviews from verified customers to guarantee that your new seating arrangement isn't merely charming but also cozy and relaxing. Check out these furnishings from Star Furniture that are sure add a touch of comfort to any space in your home:

Serene Lighting: Lamps and Fixtures 

If you're striving to create living spaces that feel calm and tranquil, the light sources you incorporate into your home matter. Consider that not every lighting solution is created equally. Some fixtures offer light that is bright and harsh while others create a soft, warm ambiance. To make sure that every area of your home is properly lit, it's important to identify what each space will be used for. You won't need the same type of lighting in your kitchen where you need to see clearly as you cook as you will in your bedroom where you go to rest and relax. 

Here are some tips from the trusted team at Star Furniture to help you enhance the serenity of your home with the right lighting solutions:

A tranquil home is a happy home. Taking the time to design a space that feels like a sanctuary can support a sense of ease in all areas of your life.  Regardless of your interior decorating style, anyone can create a home that feels like a personalized retreat with the right pieces of furniture. Check […]

large tv hanging over modern wooden entertainment center in living room

Flat screen televisions have become a modern living room staple. They provide our families with endless hours of enjoyment, but let’s back up and talk about proper TV placement. 

While you may not be able to hide your (enormous!) flat screen television, there are steps you can take to ensure that it blends seamlessly with the decor in your family room. How and where you place it can make all the difference in ensuring the space feels stylish and balanced. Likewise, the wrong placement can make even the chicest living room feel “off”. 

Fortunately, you don't have to be a professional designer to hang your television like one. Check out these simple tips from the Star Furniture experts to make sure you maintain the perfect aesthetic in your home by properly placing your TV.

Understanding Your Living Space

If you think that displaying a TV in your living room is as simple as finding an open spot to stick it, think again. Before you bring a flat screen TV into your home, it's worth taking the time to assess the layout of the room where you plan to put it. 

Questions to Ask Before Wall Mounting a TV

Before you set out to mount your flat screen television on the wall, be sure to ask yourself these questions:

Creating a thoughtful plan for how you'd like the entire room to flow and be used will make the ideal TV placement clear. Asking yourself these important questions can help you narrow down the best possible location for your flat screen television.

Choosing the Right TV Stand or Entertainment Center

When it comes to making sure that your flat screen television seamlessly meshes with the other home decor in your living room, a TV stand or entertainment center can help. TV stands and entertainment centers help to bring together the look in your living room and allow for extra storage. They also offer additional space to display your favorite decorative pieces.

As with any furnishing that you bring into a living space, the TV stand or entertainment center that you choose should complement your home decor style. It wouldn't make sense to bring a rustic entertainment center into a traditional living room, after all. With this in mind, it's helpful to define your specific style before stopping by the furniture store. 

If you're not sure which TV stand or entertainment center would work best in your home, check out these from Star Furniture:

Finding the Optimal Height for Your TV

Just as the height of your wall art can impact the aesthetic of a room, the same is true for your flat screen TV. Along with simply not looking right, a television that is hung too low or too high on a wall can make watching it difficult or uncomfortable. 

Because of this, it's important to take the time to position your TV at the optimal viewing height, so it looks good and is comfortable to look at. Ask any design expert and they'll tell you that your television should be hung at eye level. Of course, this could mean different things to different people depending on their personal height, the size of the room, and their furniture arrangement. 

It's worth noting that most televisions mounted in living rooms are hung around 40 inches high. This means that the center of the screen will be 40 inches from the ground.

In bedrooms, a mounted TV should be around 50 inches high to be seen comfortably from the bed, depending on its height. If you're hanging your TV over a piece of furniture, be sure to leave three to four inches of space from the bottom of the television to the top of the furnishing. 

Incorporating Surrounding Decor

It goes without saying that any furnishing that you bring into your home should complement the other pieces within the space. Your television is no different. With this in mind, it's important to hang your flat screen TV in a way that will allow it to blend in with the aesthetic of the room. 

The first step to ensure that your TV is thoughtfully incorporated into a space is to coordinate its placement with the room's furniture. An open wall that's adjacent to your sofa or bed and is spacious enough to accommodate the television is an obvious choice. 

Additionally, it's also a good idea to conceal or integrate cables and electronic components, such as your cable box. Furnishings, such as console tables or entertainment centers, can keep unsightly wires and technological accessories neatly tucked away.

Consider Room Lighting 

At the end of the day, your television is meant to be watched. This means that it should be located in a place that's comfortable and with minimal distractions. Perhaps the biggest factor that could impact how clearly you can see your favorite shows is light. No one wants to squint through the glare from sunlight spilling through a window or the reflection on a poorly placed table lamp. 

With this in mind, be sure to consider the location of the light sources within the room compared to where you plan to place your TV. Light fixtures should never be placed directly across from your television, as this could lead to unwanted reflections appearing at night. 

While you may not be able to move the windows in the room, you can choose window treatments that enhance your TV-watching experience. Look for curtains or shades that can easily be adjusted to block out natural light as needed.

Investing in Quality Audio-Visual Setup

Whether you're tuning into the news before work, your favorite show on a weeknight, or a movie with your family, watching television should be an experience. It should be a time of relaxation and pleasure. 

Having a good view that's free from obstructions and distractions, including light, is an important part of creating a positive TV-watching experience but it's not the only one. Being able to clearly hear the dialogue, music, and background noises of your program is also necessary. 

With this in mind, it's worth investing in a quality audio system. To feel like you're watching your show or movie at the theater, a surround sound system is the way to go. Just be sure that whatever type of audio system you choose, that the speakers are in a place where they can easily be heard while still being out of sight.

furniture vignette of TV room with contemporary style

Staying On Trend with Technology

Today's televisions certainly aren't the ones we grew up with. Along with offering countless ways to watch, stream, and purchase shows and movies, most televisions come with built-in smart features that make viewing more convenient than ever. 

To get the most out of your TV-watching experience at home, be sure to choose a television that includes the smart features that appeal to you. Some of these include voice control capabilities, easy connectivity, and effortless searching. 

Make the Most of Your Flat Screen TV with Star Furniture

Your flat screen television should enhance the style and comfort of your living room or bedroom. Knowing where and how to properly place your TV can ensure that watching your favorite shows and movies is as enjoyable as possible.

When it's time to redecorate your living room, the trusted design team at Star Furniture is here to help. Visit us online to check out our large selection of living room furniture, including TV stands. We can't wait to help you put together the living room of your dreams!

Flat screen televisions have become a modern living room staple. They provide our families with endless hours of enjoyment, but let’s back up and talk about proper TV placement.  While you may not be able to hide your (enormous!) flat screen television, there are steps you can take to ensure that it blends seamlessly with […]

When it's time to buy a new mattress, you may not know where to begin. With so many options to choose from, determining which one is right for you is often easier said than done. This is especially true if you have specific needs to address, such as back pain. It's important to do your research prior to investing in a mattress so that the one you bring home meets all of your particular preferences. 

The trick to finding the perfect mattress is understanding key mattress-related terminology. Knowing the lingo of the mattress world can help you achieve an informed and stylish mattress-shopping experience. Here are the important words to master before you shop for a new mattress at Star Furniture.

Mattress and Construction

Like other furnishings, there is more than one way to construct a mattress. Different materials and techniques are used to achieve varying levels of comfort, support, and durability. Recognizing what sets the main types of mattresses apart from one another can help you narrow down your search for your perfect mattress. Types of mattresses include:

Firmness Levels 

In the old days, everyone said that sleeping on a firm mattress was better for you. Over time, it's been shown that this isn't always the case. The best mattress for your health is the one that helps you get a quality night's sleep. After all, sleep is a critical aspect of living a healthy life.

For this reason, it's important to choose the mattress that you personally find comfortable. Reviews from other customers or experts can help, but at the end of the day, you're going to be the one sleeping on it, so your opinion is really the only one that matters.

Here's what you need to know about the different firmness levels of mattresses:

Mattress Sizes

The size of your mattress matters as much as its comfort and support. There are several factors to take into consideration when weighing your options for how spacious your mattress should be. First and foremost, your mattress should comfortably sit in your bedroom while leaving room for other furnishings and to walk around. 

If the size of your bedroom is of no concern, then personal preferences will dictate whether your mattress should be roomy or particularly large. Here are some tips to consider from your trusted friends at Star Furniture:

Motion Isolation 

No one wants to wake up every time their partner stirs, rolls over, or gets out of bed in the morning. If you're a light sleeper, it's worth investing in a mattress that has excellent motion isolation.

Motion isolation refers to how much disturbance occurs on one side of the mattress when another area moves. A good way to visualize this is to set a cup of water on the mattress. If it stays level when you climb into or out of the bed, it's safe to say that the mattress has good motion isolation.

While no mattress will stay completely still if a person is moving on top of it, some are certainly better than others at minimizing motion transfer and impact. With this in mind, be sure to keep this feature in mind before bringing a new mattress home.

Breathability and Cooling Technologies

If you feel hot when you sleep, you're not alone. It's common for people to let off heat as they slumber. The good news is that there are mattresses that are designed specifically to keep you cool and comfortable all night long. Gel memory foam mattresses are made with specialized cooling gel to take in and move heat away from your body.

They contain gel beds or liquid that include cooling properties that aid in regulating the temperature of the mattress where you sleep. This is particularly helpful for people with health conditions that make them more inclined to feel warm at night, including those with hormonal imbalances. Best of all, gel memory foam mattresses are just as comfortable and supportive as their counterparts.

Edge Support

The last time you purchased a mattress, you probably didn't ask the salesperson about its edge support. While most people have never heard of this term, it's an important factor to look into when searching for a mattress that will serve you well for years to come.

Edge support is what maintains the overall integrity of the mattress and provides the reinforcement for its exterior. In other words, it describes how much support the mattress will have if you sit or sleep on its edge. Let's be honest. You're not only going to use the center of your bed. You and your partner should be able to spread out in comfort from edge to edge of your mattress.

It's worth asking an expert, such as one of the sleep experts at Star Furniture, how supportive the edges are of the mattress you have in mind. Strong edge support maximizes your sleeping surface while also ensuring the sides of your bed don't sag after a year or two.

Adjustable Beds and Compatibility

Adjustable beds allow you to customize your sleep experience by raising the head and/or foot for a more personalized sleep position. This is convenient for activities, such as watching television or reading in bed, as well as for health benefits. Sleeping in a customized position could alleviate back pain, make it easier to breathe, minimize snoring, and help you fall asleep faster.

Adjustable bed bases come in a wide range of styles, sizes, and features. Some can be adjusted on both sides, allowing couples to choose their ideal sleep preferences, while others include luxurious features, such as built-in lighting or massage capabilities. Like any other bed, the right adjustable base is the one that you find comfortable or convenient. Fortunately, most of them are compatible with a range of standard mattresses, including gel memory foam.

Get a Better Night’s Sleep with Help From Star Furniture

You deserve to get a great night's sleep night after night. Unfortunately, too many people settle for sleeping on the wrong mattress until they just can't take it anymore. All it takes is some reading up on current mattress lingo, and you’re already halfway there!

If you're ready to ditch your old, uncomfortable mattress for one that meets your specific comfort and support needs, the trusted design team at Star Furniture is here to help. We can help you navigate the mattress lingo that can sometimes overcomplicate the process of finding your dream bed.

We're proud to offer a large selection of quality mattresses and bedroom furniture to meet your ideal sleep and style preferences. Visit us online to find the home design inspiration you need before stopping by our showroom to begin working with one of our experienced interior designers. We can't wait to help you sleep like a baby with a quality mattress from Star Furniture.

If you enjoyed this article, read this one about how to care for sofa cushions the right way.

When it’s time to buy a new mattress, you may not know where to begin. With so many options to choose from, determining which one is right for you is often easier said than done. This is especially true if you have specific needs to address, such as back pain. It’s important to do your […]