The Furniture Market

Our count down to the 10 best dressing tables.

2011-06-15T05:44:00.001-07:00

10: The Silver Embossed Compact Dressing Table; a beautiful silver embossed dressing table that is ideal for those short on space. Its compact design includes everything you need from a dressing table including a gallery section with mirror and drawer storage for all your bits and bobs. A beautifully delicate design that is ideal for those seeking something just that little bit different from their dressing table.

9: Venetian Etched Shaped Dressing Table; a beautifully delicate piece that has been designed for the girlie girl. Gorgeous etching on the corners and drawer fronts are beautifully rounded off with glass pumpkin style knobs that make this dressing table the height of elegance. Stunning cabriolet style legs complete the look and make this piece the perfect choice for those wanting to inject some femininity into their bedroom.

8: Oxford Oak Pedestal Dressing Table; hand crafted from solid oak this dressing table is made to perfection. Sturdy in nature and functional in design this dressing table is designed for those wanting a piece that will last a lifetime. The three ample sized drawers make this the ideal dressing table for those lacking in space and the added bonus being the choice of 3 handles means you can compliment a multitude of decors.

7: French Noir Small Dressing Table; handcrafted from solid mahogany wood this dramatic piece is designed to be the centre piece to any bedroom. The quaint but functional design offers everything required from a dressing table, a number of drawers offer ample storage for all your bits and pieces and the stunning shaped cheval mirror is perfectly adjustable. This piece is the ideal choice for those wanting to inject a bit of drama into their bedroom.

6: French Gold Leaf Carved Dressing Table; this stunning addition to the gold leaf range is perfect for those wanting a more regal feel to their bedroom, this piece instantly injects glamour and wealth into a décor and is stunningly carved with delicate attention to detail. The gallery section offers ample space and the secret pillow drawers are beautifully integrated into the design of the table. The gold leafing used on this dressing table gives a really authentic antique aged effect finish and is the ideal choice for those wanting to create a luxurious feeling of wealth into their bedroom.

5: Venetian Etched Dressing Table; an absolutely stunning dressing table that has been beautifully hand etched on the corners and drawers fronts to create a truly gorgeous dressing table that’s fit for a princess. Those wanting to inject some femininity into their décor this dressing table is the perfect solution and is only further complimented by the matching stool and elegant dressing table 3 way mirror. The classic design of the etched Venetian design has proven to still be incredibly popular amongst the Venetian furniture range; this is due to its ageless design and its ability to work with a number of decors.

4: Chateau Carved Dressing Table; although the same design as the gold leaf, this dressing table has earned its right to be up in the top ten selection due to its sheer popularity. The Chateau range is one of the best selling French collections due to its versatility to coincide with a multitude colours and styles. The Chateau Carved Dressing Table is the height of subtle elegance, displaying stunning carved detail and functionality that make this dressing table the perfect piece for those wanting to create a luxurious living space whilst using your imagination to combine any style and colour furnishings to work alongside it.

3: Rustic Oak Pedestal Dressing Table; the rustic oak collection is an incredibly popular range due to its raw and natural appeal. Within the rustic oak range you really feel like you own a slice of nature and this is down to a combination of its solid and durable nature teamed with its rustic imperfections. Handcrafted from solid oak throughout and completed with a sealed natural oil finish the rustic range beautifully captures all the natural raw elements of the oak tree and enhances it further by using rounded off edges and emphasising the natural grain of the wood. The pedestal style dressing table is perfect for those needing a little extra storage space as the 3 drawers provide ample space and this piece is only complimented further by the addition of the vanity mirror and stool creating a perfect station for all those beauty needs.

2: Venetian Plain Mirrored 2 Drawer Dressing Table; one of the most popular Venetian designs to date, this console was one of the first of its kind to take Venetian furniture into the modern market and has influenced a number of matching pieces since. The contemporary design means that pretty much anyone can now indulge in a mirrored décor and why wouldn’t you? it lends itself to any style home and décor and has the unique ability to lighten any room using light reflection off its many panelled edges. The mirrored 2 drawer console is simplistic in design using bevelled edges whilst offering ample storage space in its two well sized drawers, as with most dressing tables this piece can only be further complimented with the ‘in keeping’ 3 way dressing table mirror and plain stool that follow on this cool and contemporary design to create a dressing table set that would even entice any man to sit at it.

1: Barcelona Mirrored Dressing Table; this piece does not require much introduction, its iconic and contemporary design speak for itself. The Barcelona style began in the form of a lounge chair created by the great Ludwig Mies Van Der Rohe some 80 years ago. Since then this design has flourished whilst still maintaining its iconic status recognised by generations. The Barcelona dressing table is quite a new addition to the Barcelona family but has proved incredibly popular for those seeking style and sophistication from their décor. The complimenting Barcelona dressing table stool featuring the button detail of the original lounge chair really makes you feel like you are owning a piece of history. The Barcelona dressing table features 2 substantial drawers and the mirrored panels are rounded off using bevelled edges, the polished stainless steel frame is sturdy and secure giving the dressing table a substantial presence. This piece is designed for those who know and appreciate style and want to be a part of the Barcelona phenomenon that has influenced the world of interior past and present.

How to decide on the right interior for you before committing to a complete decor change.

2011-05-17T03:30:00.001-07:00

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Decorating, re-decorating and renovating can be a daunting task for most. I come across people on a regular basis that just can’t make up their minds on colour, style and what goes with what. Interior design is not something to be scared of and it is important to reflect your own interests and style into a decor so it really speaks to you.

The easiest and most inexpensive way to do this is through a ‘mood board’. Many may think of this as just an excuse to waste time cutting, gluing and sticking pointless pictures and images to a board with very little effect. This couldn’t be further from the truth; a mood board is the perfect way to view colours, styles and texture in a set space to really determine if they work together. In looking at a decor in this compact way makes sure that even if you were to throw all your chosen furniture, furnishings, colours and fabric all in one big pile they would still have the ability to work well together.

The idea behind the mood board is to do a few, experiment with your favourite colours and don’t be afraid to mix colours that you wouldn’t usually, at the end of the day if you don’t like it you can just crack on with another and alter the aspect that didn’t sit right with you. For the more experienced designer; instead of using actual images of let’s say a chair or a bed they will use a more metaphoric style of what they want to achieve, for example if they are looking to create a funky, chic and sassy decor they will opt for images of skyscraper designer high heels for example or contemporary architecture and maybe a cut out of luscious red lips to portray this image along with splashes of colour and texture that they want to create. It doesn’t need to be this complicated however when decorating a room in one’s home, sticking to images of the kind of furniture you are looking to introduce into the room gives you a better understanding on the workings of the decor, If you can find pictures of the actual furniture that you want to use or purchase for the room then all the better for a clearer picture.

Once you have played around with colour, texture and style and applied the one’s that you are happy with onto a mood board you should find that the finished collage is one that sits well with you and is pleasing to the eye. This then gives you the basis you need to start tackling the practical side of the job and hopefully means you can enter into it with a little more confidence knowing that your colour and style work well together and just needs a little application.

Oak Furniture

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Oak furniture and a homely feeling… but why does it?

Why do you like oak furniture? Maybe we subconsciously associate it with the countryside? Maybe it reminds us of going home to our parent’s house? I don’t know. I am no interior designer but when I think about it. A home usually reflects the area it is in and what it is made from. Modern apartments in the big smoke usually are made from glass and metal. So it makes sense that contemporary living is reflected inside the home itself. Slim minimalist furniture made from glass and composite materials. All leaves a feel that the architecture didn’t end at the front door. The furniture in modern living becomes an architectural extension of the building… the inner reflects the outer.

Maybe it always has, or maybe it’s the other way around. It’s something I have only just thought of. I think it’s referred to as ‘in keeping’? When I think about oak furniture it reminds me of home and relaxing and unwinding. Oak furniture then is a reflection of the homeliness of the countryside and of nature itself. Solid oak furniture used in a kitchen for example really adds warmth to the heart of the home. It reminds us of the strength and longevity of family life, of roots and possibly of good old fashioned home cooking.

No wonder then that oak furniture is a main stay in the furniture market some designers are getting more contemporary with how they fashion oak for modern urban living but for me it just leaves me with a sense of twisting nature, I am never really at easy with pieces that are too radically opposed to its composition, for example there is something a little unnerving about an apple carved from oak. To me it just doesn’t make sense. It is only slightly better than using plastic fruit and flowers in furniture designs. Why? Who wants to buy plastic flowers? It’s like making bricks made out of glass. To me it’s incongruent and I don’t get it.

Oak furniture for me should be chunky sturdy and not too clever. When oak furniture is like this it reminds me of the countryside and nature.

The Best of British

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With the Royal wedding just around the corner and the 2012 Olympics fast approaching its time to feel ‘proud to be British’! Time to put the doom and gloom of the financial depression behind us and look towards a brighter future.

With the union jack flag making its appearance on clothing and furnishings there is no better time to show your patriotism to ye old England. There is no need to go overboard with this fashionable décor, covering your whole home in the union jack flag is a big no no. The key is to keep it subtle with just one or two selective pieces that make a statement whilst complimenting the existing décor.

The union jack 3 drawer bedside is a really funky piece of furniture and kept to just one of two of these, looks awesome either side of the bed. For those wanting a more regal feel from their union jack piece, they do not come anymore majestic than the Union Jack Boudoir Carver with gold leaf frame and a funky twist in the black and silver silk upholstery. To combine style with function, the union jack storage coffee table is a funky alternative to a coffee table and has a really rustic worn feel to add character.

So time to get on board and show your support for an ever resilient united kingdom.

Royal Wedding Furniture

2011-04-13T06:18:00.001-07:00

The big wedding is just days away so we thought it would be a good idea to take a closer look at all the royal wedding furniture we are carrying and see if we can spot some royal trends in 2011. You can’t have a royal wedding without a throne. Nothing would make you feel more special than to sit on a magnificent throne on the biggest day of your life…

Take a look at these gold leaf chairs. Note the regal carvings which hint at a more eastern influence perhaps Indian or Persian. Imagine a wedding with such magnificent chairs for the evening function?

See the full gallery on Posterous

These chairs are on special offer over at the furniture market.co.uk

Are you an eco warier? Then don’t let this stop when it comes to your furniture.

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If the current climate is of grave concern to you and you strive to play your part in bringing about a change in the way we obtain our natural recourses then oak is an excellent eco choice. It’s natural, renewable and recyclable whilst requiring no chemical preservatives and if sourced from well managed woodlands has very little impact on our environment.

The beauty with oak furniture is the fact that it will last a lifetime and only gets better with age. Nic’s and cuts only enhance the rustic charm of oak furniture and it’s a wonderful thing to pass down cherished pieces to generation after generation.

In a day and age where we are all taking more of an interest in the sustainability of our planet it is definitely worth applying this to our home and not letting it stop with just recycling our waste but also apply this philosophy to our furniture. There is so much oak furniture on offer these days, you can be sure to find a style to suit your requirements and relish in the thought that you are playing your part in contributing to the improvement of today’s environment.

Knights of the Oak round table.

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A round dining table can on occasion take up more space than that of a square or rectangular style however they are incredible sociable and just as King Arthur intended; puts everyone on an even keel with no head or chief of the table. Everyone has the ability to see each other therefore encouraging conversation and interactions.

Although the selection of round oak tables are not as plentiful as square or rectangular styles the few on offer are both solid and substantial providing functionality and style in one. The Toulouse oak round dining table is a beautiful rustic looking table with solid squared off legs, however if space is an issue then they don’t come anymore practical than that of the French Regal Oak round extending dining table with stunning tapered legs for a more elegant style.

So if you’re after a more sociable experience from your dining table look at introducing a round dining table into your living space and encourage healthy debates and conversation around the dinner table, just as the knights intended.

How to subtly integrate media units into your decor so they don’t look like out of place monstrosities.

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In a world where traditional methods are now binging replaced by gadgets and gizmos that are designed to make our lives easier and more efficient it is becoming increasingly difficult to maintain a traditional and harmonies living environment that is not only functional and practical but also falls in line with the feng shui living that we all strive to achieve in our homes.

With this in mind the last thing you need to constitute towards harmonious living is a black high gloss TV stand that takes up the only available wall in the living room or floating shelves covering your walls exposing CD’s and DVD’s, numerous accessories for Playstations and X boxes strewn across the floor with no real home. In order to combat this takeover of modern day living there are some pieces of oak furniture that assist in keeping the crude exposure of technology behind closed doors.

An oxford oak widescreen plasma unit is the perfect piece to offer ample surface space for ever-growing plasma screens and also provides ample and appropriate storage for Sky boxes, games consoles and all the additional extras that come with them. Still traditional in design with solid oak panels and a naturally oiled finish, this TV unit can slot into almost any decor and is the perfect cover up.

A granary timber CD chest is not only a great place to store away all those CD’s and DVD’s but is also a really attractive piece of furniture that is beautifully rustic in design and features authentic brass style handles and a real textures finish.

Another truly genius storage piece is the Hampton pedestal unit which not only discreetly stores ample CD’s and DVD’s but also doubles as a classic plant stand and has the ability to subtly slip into pretty much any decor.

So as you can see there is hope in the fight against modern day technology and the effect it has on our interior decor. If you are one of many that don’t want to have to change their style of living to accommodate this ever-growing market then fight back with one of the many classic oak pieces of furniture on offer to complement a traditional and harmonious decor.

Home is where the heart is!

2011-03-21T08:06:00.001-07:00

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Do you sometimes feel that your home is lacking warmth and familiarity? Has it become more of a base to store and assist in your everyday lives? A home should be your haven, the place that when you come back to you feel relaxed, safe, and happy.

Nowadays with lives seemingly becoming more complex and busy it is easy to allow your home to no longer being a place that you can express your personality and create a feeling of calm and serenity but instead is a place where home office’s and studies begin to spill out into the living area, kitchen tables are now more reminiscent of laundry rooms and bathrooms are no longer the luxury serene spa setting that you had dreamt of but more like a scene from a Mothercare changing room.

If this sounds familiar to you then it’s time to take action and restore an element of what a home should really represent back into your lives. Oak furniture is the ideal way to introduce warmth and familiarity back into your home. Its durability means it will last a lifetime but also its pliable nature means it always has the ability to look fresh and revitalised. An Oak Office Desk is the perfect piece of furniture to solve all those home office dilemmas whilst not looking unsightly and out of place but instead lending itself beautifully to a well organised and calm environment. Oak Bookcase should not be dismissed as they not only serve the purpose of storing books but are great to display on and if featuring drawers they can hide a multitude of sins. Oak cupboards and blanket boxes are also great storage pieces giving you additional space to store away linen and laundry with easy access. Extending Oak Dining Tables are great for space issues and allow you to cater for more guests when needed. A solid oak dining table with a natural oiled finish means that any scratches, stains or marks can easily be managed meaning a reliable dining table that not only looks good but is extremely functional and will last a lifetime.

Your home is one of the most important places in your life, its where memories are made and numerous important events happen, so make sure that when you and your children look back on homes past you remember a safe haven that promoted a feeling of real warmth, a place that you remember with a smile.

It’s Spring Clean time so why not go that one step further and introduce a fresh new look to your home?

2011-03-17T10:36:00.001-07:00

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It’s approaching that time of year again; the marigolds come out, cleaning products are bought in their masses and hover bags are renewed. The annual spring clean is a tradition that many of us follow and gives us a boost into the summer months ahead, it’s a chance to clean out the cobwebs and bring in the fresh air. Although the ‘Spring Clean’ is a physical pastime, this tradition also has a great effective on your mental wellbeing and makes us feel like we are starting out the year fresh, new and encouraged.

This time of year is also a great time to re-decorate so as to enhance that feeling of a new beginning, a change in colour, decor and style is a great way to achieve this, so out with the old and in with the new!

There are some great new modern and contemporary oak furniture ranges out there to assist in achieving this new fresh appeal. The Oxford Oak range in particular is hand crafted from solid north American oak that is light and fresh in colour as well as being solid and durable in nature. This range features all the key pieces needed to furnish a bedroom, dining or living room and has the added appeal of 3 different types of handles to choose from. A round oak for the more traditionalist, the rustic square for the country cottage look and the polished metal for the cool and contemporary feel.

The beauty with oak furniture is how easy to clean it is, it doesn’t show up and highlight the dust in your home like glass or mirrored furniture and can be effortlessly maintained and freshened up with an occasional oiling to bring it back to life.

The Oxford Oak range has many storage pieces ideal for clearing all that clutter out of sight, the 2 door cupboard is perfect for containing all those shoes that seem to gather at the front door, the Oxford Oak 3 Drawer Sideboard is a great for piece for in the hall way or in the living room to store crockery and cutlery or even all the kids toys games and the 2 Drawer Bookcase is designed to hold a magnitude of books so you can maintain an organised household that is fresh and welcoming.

So when you embark on your Spring Clean this year it might be worthwhile thinking of a few key pieces of oak furniture that may well be just the answer to your clutter free future, low maintenance and designed to last a lifetime.

History of the Oak Tree.

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Over the centuries the Oak tree has been subjected to a great deal of variation and now there are over 400 hundred species. Oak trees can now be found as far afield as Java, in the Mountains of Mexico and in South America. In Britain our once proud parks and forests are slowly being eroded and re-planted with a growing number of Oaks from foreign origins. The two main varieties of Oak trees native to England are the English or Common oak and the Sessile or Durmast Oak. The Common oak is identified by having acorns in 1’s and 2’s attached to its twigs by long stalks, the leaves having hardly any stalk at all. The Sessile’ leaves are bigger and are borne on long stalks while its acorns are attached to the bough instead of stalks. The Sessile variety of Oak is generally found in the lower parts of Britain and North Wales, and doesn’t live as long as the Common Oak. Its wood is of a straighter fibre with a finer grain, and is generally thought to be less tough and less resisting than the Common oak.

The longest established variety of the foreign Oak now grown in Britain, is the Evergreen or Holm Oak, which is common found to the south of England and Europe. The origin of the name “Holm” is translated from Anglo-Saxon as the term for “Holly”, for it can often be found growing in close proximity to it, as well as sporting Holly shaped leaves. The Turkey Oak is the most prolific of the foreign Oaks introduce into Britain. This tall and majestic tree when fully grown produces abundant acorns in mossy cups.

The Oak in general is a slow growing tree of imposing stature and lives to an incredible age. On average the tree will reach heights of 110 feet (33 meters) with girths of some 30 – 40 feet (9 – 12 meters). The strength and elasticity of the Oak make it particularly valuable for house building and shipbuilding. The “Wooden Walls of England” is an old phrase of many connotations; one meaning refers to the stately homes of England, which gave rise to another phrase “Hearts of Oak”, for the Englishman literally made his home from Oak. Many of the old Manor Houses still standing were constructed using huge oaken beams, walls were decorated with fancy Oak carved panels, and large solid Oak doors secured the house from intruders and unwanted visitors. Oak was also used in the building and construction of Churches and Cathedrals; indeed the roof beams of Westminster Abbey are made from Sessile Oak.

After the Oak has passed its first century, it’s growth increases by less than an inch a year. This slowness of growth matures the wood in such a fashion that it becomes practically indestructible. As a timber, the most valued qualities of the Oak are its hardness and toughness. While the Ebony tree may be harder, and the Yew and Ash tree tougher, none of these trees possess both these qualities to such a degree as the English Oak. Although no longer used for building of ships of war, it is still in great demand for other purposes, sharing with Ash in the making of railway carriages and other forms of transport.

As well as its strength for building purposes, the Oak is much prized for the beauty of its grain and texture, and the richness of its colouring after polishing. As such it is considered the favourite wood of carpenters and cabinetmakers for use in panelling of doors and furniture. Stunning cupboards, chests, tables and chairs were and still are made of Oak, and due to the woods durability many of these have survived down through the centuries. Initially pale brown in colour, Oak wood darkens with age giving it character that only gets better with age.

How to get the most out of your oak coffee table.

2011-03-08T04:49:00.001-08:00

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In era where homes seem to be getting smaller by the minute and more expensive by the dozen, there is an increasing demand for furniture that is both functional and practical whilst still maintaining an element of style.

Wood coffee tables are still the most sought after as they are durable in nature and withstand the potential knocking around that feet/coffee cups and children inflict upon them. There are so many varieties of wood on offer when it comes to furniture, whether you’re after Oak, Pine, Fruitwood, Mahogany etc etc. Oak is certainly the most sought after at present as it is classed as a more upmarket wood that offers a sophisticated look with a variety of shades. It is also very durable and solid in nature so can be easily touched up and repaired should accidents happen.

As mentioned there are a multitude of Oak styles out there depending on what look you are trying to achieve. If you have existing oak furniture in your living room and require to match up your coffee table to these unless you purchase from the same range it can be quite tricky as oak in its natural state is not uniform in colour or texture however many believe this is its charm and to have pieces of mis-matched oak only enhances character in a room.

As far as style and functionality go, Oak furniture has a wide selection of coffee tables that not only look good but also serve a purpose; this is due to the versatile nature of Oak wood and its ability to be easily crafted in such as way.

A perfect example of this is the Oak Storage Coffee Table that has 4 lower drawers but also opens out from the top to reveal 4 compartment sections making it the ideal solution to those storage issues. Another example of Oak at its best in a coffee table is the Oak Coffee Table with Nest, this piece allows you to not only have the use of a substantial coffee table but also features two handy nest tables below that can be pulled out and used to accommodate additional guests with a place to put their cuppa.

These are just a few examples of brilliant oak coffee tables that are geared towards modern day living and designed to make life just that little bit simpler but not compromise on style and design.

How to transform your daughter’s room into a boudoir fit for a princess.

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Is your daughter a really girly girl who is now beginning to outgrow the pink unicorns or the fluffy balloons used in the early days of childhood? With an increasing demand for not just versatile and practical children’s furniture but also something unique and different to satisfy our children’s imagination and inspirations we are starting to be a little more selective when decorating the kid’s bedroom.

There are some beautiful pieces French Chateau White furniture that are perfect for creating a look fit for a little princess. Starting with a gorgeous 3ft Bordeaux style bed with rattan headboard and footboard, team this with some dainty Chateau 2 drawer bedside cabinets with stunning carved detail and an equally beautiful 4 drawer carved chest to match.

With your children’s bedroom usually the smallest of all the rooms in the house you may struggle to find a wardrobe suitable, the Chateau white collection has just the solution in the Chateau Small 1 Door Armoire. Mimicked off the larger and impressive mirrored armoires which boast size and grandeur; the small 1 door armoire takes all the beautiful elements from these pieces such as the carved crown and stunning cabriolet style legs and scales it all down to allow the little people to take advantage of this stunning range of furniture.

To finish a Chateau 3 Drawer Dressing/Hall Table is the perfect starter dressing table for your little girl, not too big but enough drawers to cater for an ever-growing interest in makeup and hair accessories, complimented with a dainty bedroom chair with rattan heart back you now have a room fir for a princess that will take het well into her teens.

The beauty with the Chateau White French furniture is the ability to team any colour furnishings, so if your little girl is still a true pink at heart then this way you can add a splash of colour and instantly you have more subtle approach to girlyness.

How to transform a bedroom fit for a growing son.

2011-03-02T08:13:00.001-08:00

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Is your little boy starting to outgrow those dumper trucks and dancing clowns? You’re entering a tricky period in Child interior design, how you decorate now needs to take him through to his teens so needs to be versatile to his changing personality.

An excellent solution to this dilemma is the French Style Oak Range, it’s dark and rustic in colour and chunky in design whilst offering a little sophistication with its cornice detail and masculinity with its black metal oval knobs.

This range has all the key pieces needed for a growing boy and plenty of storage space for all those gadgets and gizmos. The 3ft French Style Oak Sleigh Bed is a stunning example of a sleigh bed with a chunky headboard and high footboard. The solid oak 3 drawer bedsides are substantial in size and are complemented by any of the unique combinations of chests available within this range depending on your requirements.

The French Style Oak Double wardrobe contains plenty of hanging and folding space and is the perfect finale to your Childs treasured space. Within the French Style Oak range you find a perfect solution to growing children as it is solid and built to last but also contains a style that will take them through their teen days. This range allows you to team any kind of furnishings with it, whether you go for light and fresh colours the furniture still maintains a masculine feel or even if your little treasure wants a more modern feel, contemporary and bright accessories only compliment this range further.

So there you have it a room fir for a prince and in time a king should they decided not to leave home at the required age!

The Furniture Market: Whay American Oak is better than European Oak

2011-02-18T07:48:00.000-08:00

The Furniture Market: Why American Oak is better than European Oak

Whay American Oak is better than European Oak

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Why American oak is better than European oak

‘Oak’ is a general term in which over 400 species of oak trees and shrubs in the genus Quercus (Latin for ‘oak tree’) exist. Quercus is native to the northern hemisphere, and includes deciduous and evergreen species ranging from cold latitudes to tropical Asia as well as the Americas. It is this American oak that produces multiple pieces of beautifully crafted oak furniture.

The middle ages were the starting point at which oak furniture begun to revolutionise buildings. During this time oak was renowned for the strength it could offer as building material as well as the ability for this plain natural resource to be transformed into beautiful carvings often relevant to the church, royalty and nobles. North America Oak soon became a main competitor in the oak market, offering quality oak from a range of areas and climates. There are currently over 60 species of oak tree in America which indicates the range of oaks and textures that can be offered by this vast country. The largest North American tree comes in the form of the red oak (Quercus rubro) which can amount to over 133 feet.

Europen oak stocks were severely depleted through centuries of conflict across Europe. Starting with construction of mighty catapults & battering rams to batter down castle walls, & construction of bridges etc, this list goes on and on of military uses for oak in Europe. Whilst not as strong as stone, Oak was seen as the strongest light weight alternative that could be fashioned into many things by skilled carpenters. We also saw across Europe a swelling of naval activity also putting further strain on European oak supplies. Ship design was advancing and ships were becoming bigger and bigger, requiring large oak trees to be felled, larger oak trees being obviously older. It was not just military use of oak that depleted European stocks, Civilians also used the oak tree to fashion everyday household furniture.

This dependency on oak over the centuries left Europe badly in need of oak at the onset of the First World War and ironically boosted growing oak economy in America. America is one of the largest exporters of Oak which is a reflection on not only the quality and variety that can be offered in comparison to the European Oak but also the abundance the relative abundance of American Oak. Where European Oak fails to deliver, the American Oak can.

A popular oak variety from America comes in the form of the White oak which trumps many European oaks still found today. This oak itself varies within regions of America, those trees grown in the northern Appalachian area produces a slower grown tree creating a mild wood type where as those grown in the southern states produce a harder, tougher timber American White Oak. This oak is milder to work than European Oaks and suitable for high class furniture and decretive work, it is also a good timber for constructional work due to its strength and durability.

Oaks from these two competing continents are indeed both highly sought after, but there is just no competition when it comes to the variety, quality and profusion that the American Oak can offer in comparison to European species. Our lives would be at a loss if it wasn’t for the unfailing contribution made by the American oak species to produce modern day essentials such as beds, wardrobes, tables and chairs.

The Furniture Market undergoes revamp and offers a wider choice in oak furniture to its customers.

2011-01-31T07:18:00.001-08:00

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The Furniture Market.co.uk steps up its game and introduces new oak furniture ranges to its customers highlighting that they are now a one stop shop for oak furniture.

More and more people are now focusing their buying rituals online whether this is purchasing something small like CD’s and DVD’s to larger and luxury items such as clothing, appliances and furniture. It is considered that you can get much more for your money with online shopping and have the ability to shop around comparing prices at just a click of a button. The online Furniture trade is one of the fastest growing sectors online today offering just as much choice as you would get traipsing around a multitude of shops. Within the online furniture trade oak furniture is particularly popular with shoppers due to its robust and durable nature. Oak furniture does not damage easily and travels well so is a great choice for the more dubious buyer.

The Furniture Market is one of the leading suppliers of oak furniture and a one stop shop for all your oak furniture needs, offering so much choice in colour, style and finishes. They are always adding to their ranges and always looking for new up and coming trends in oak furniture. The Furniture Market prides themselves on being the cheapest online retailer for oak furniture and even if you do manage to find an item cheaper elsewhere they offer a price match guarantee.

A particular favourite is the Oxford Oak collection which is handcrafted from solid North American oak as many of their ranges are with a natural oiled finish and a choice of 3 different style handles. If you’re on a tight budget however they also offer a similar style in the London Oak range which features solid oak tops and frames but also Incorporates pine drawer inners and oak veneered side panels so as to drive down the price for their customers.

The Furniture Market also offer a stunning French style oak range that is perfect if wanting a more rustic feel from your furniture, featuring a beautiful sleigh style bed and finished to the highest quality, the Furniture Market really do have something to suit all tastes.

Their sales team are extremely knowledgeable in all aspects of their furniture and are happy to answer any questions you may have. Their delivery service is efficient and reliable offering a time slot delivery so you don’t have to hang around all day and their drivers are more than competent when it comes to transporting the furniture into your home smoothly with minimum fuss. The Furniture Market also offer a no quibble returns policy and understand that some of their customers are new to online shopping and need to be confident that if for any reason they need to return their order this can be done again with minimum fuss. All in all the Furniture Market offer a pleasurable online shopping experience and are the perfect choice not only if wanting oak furniture but if you are new to online shopping and want to buy with a reputable company that keep you in the loop at all stages of your order. Visit them at www.thefurnituremarket.co.uk or give their friendly sales team a call on 01829 759 259.

Are you the open and sociable type that loves to entertain? Then we have just the piece for you.

2011-01-25T04:06:00.001-08:00

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Is your kitchen/dining area the hub of your home? Then the Rustic Oak range has just the piece of furniture for you; The Rustic Oak Buffet with Wine Rack. This piece is perfect for the socialite in you, it displays to your guests that you love to entertain and always have a bottle on hand to enjoy with friends. The Rustic Oak range is a beautiful solid oak collection of furniture that oozes class and style with its rustic and worn look designed to make it look like it’s been a part of the family for an age. Completed with authentic black knocker style handles this range has everything you need to create a warm and homely environment in your kitchen/diner.

Get that classic oak look at a fraction of the price!

2011-01-21T07:35:00.001-08:00

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The new London Oak range is a fantastic collection of oak bedroom furniture designed to create that beautiful rustic feel without costing the earth.

Made from North American White Oak the London Oak collection has solid oak frames, tops and drawer fronts but also incorporates pine drawer inners and runners along with oak veneered side panels, this enables us to drive down the price but means you don’t forgo the rustic oak charm appearance you were trying to achieve.

The solid oak tops and frames are finished in a natural oiled effect which is perfect when trying to achieve that rustic feel. This also means that any bumps, scrapes or scratched can be easily managed with a touch of sanding and some boiled linseed oil which takes it right back into the grain. The London Oak is finished with simple but stylish bar handles in a dark bronze colour so at to be sympathetic to all decors and styles.

The London Oak collection contains all the core bedroom pieces from the classic slat bed to the ever functional 2 over 3 oak chests. Perfect for the kids bedroom as not only is it durable and robust it will grow with them and never date over time. Each storage piece provides ample storage space within the drawers as shown within the oak 2 drawer bedside cabinets and the versatile oak 6 drawer chest which can also be used as a sideboard for clearing away all that clutter.

Oak Furniture vs Pine Furniture

2011-01-18T08:30:00.001-08:00

Oak Furniture v’s Pine Furniture, let battle commence!

There was a time when Pine Furniture dominated the market however Oak Furniture took the lead and quickly became the favourite for people seeking that rustic country look. It would now seem that Pine Furniture may be creeping back up the furniture ladder, so what are the pros and cons for these two competing woods?

Oak Furniture

Pros

· Oak is a hardwood therefore is heavy, hardwearing and strong

· Oak can be adapted to incorporate more contemporary designs

· Oak has attractive deep shades and displays natural knotting and grains to create a rustic charm

· Oak furniture will last a lifetime and can be maintained to render any scratches or stains

· Oak is not prone to warping

· Oak is very attractive and gives a feel of true luxury

Cons

· Oak is more expensive due to the time it takes to grow.

· Oak is a heavy wood so is not suitable for furniture that is constantly on the move.

· Oak furniture does need to be cared for to maintain its beauty.

· Moisture can spoil the wood grain so liquids need to be dealt with quickly.

Pine Furniture

Pros

· Pine is a cheaper wood as it does not take very long to grow

· Pine is a more environmentally friendly wood.

· Pine is a soft wood therefore can be easily machined to include intricate patterns etc.

· Pine is has a good shock resistance and high stiffness

· Pine furniture is often used for painted furniture ranges as it takes stains and paint well.

· Pine furniture is light in weight

Cons

· Pine is a softwood therefore does not have the durability of oak

· Pine tends to only to be used for traditional styles due to its nature

· As Pine is a softwood it can be easily dented and scratched

· Moisture can spoil the wood grain so liquids need to be dealt with quickly.

Conclusion

As you can see from the above there is no clear cut winner, it completely depends on your preference. If you’re after a little bit of luxury and say more of a contemporary look from your wood then oak is the way to go, just remember that its durability means it comes with a price tag.

If you’re after something for the guest room or the kids room and you don’t want to spend a fortune but still achieve that rustic wood charm then pine is certainly the way to go.

Oak furniture v’s Pine Furniture -you decide!

Chateau French Dressing Table with Mirror

2009-07-02T03:16:00.000-07:00

The height of elegance!! If it's refined sophistication your trying to create in your bedroom then this piece of furniture is designed to do just that. The Chateau French Dressing Table with gallery mirror is truly beautiful in it's design; with two secret drawers in the front of the dressing table and cheval mirror with two vanity drawers in the gallery this piece does not scrimp on space. It's beautiful carved detail and charming cabriolet legs lend themselves to the mid 18th century which produced some of the most magnificent pieces of furniture re-created today. The Chateau French Furniture Collection is an extensive range of truly exceptional furniture, our Chateau Dressing Table with Mirror makes the perfect accompaniment to the equally stunning French Chateau Carved 3 Drawer Chest and French Chateau 1 Door Mirrored Armoire, with pieces like these achieving 'refined sophistication' comes effortlessly.

Etched Venetian Mirrored Furniture Range

2009-06-22T06:08:00.000-07:00

Our Etched Venetian Furniture range is the original classic in Venetian Furniture. This range set the pace for this ever growing ever popular collection of Furniture. When first introduced Venetian Glass Furniture took furnishing your home to a different level. Originally produced on the Island of Murano, Venetian glass was world-renowned for being colourful, elaborate and skillfully made and usually reserved for elaborate mirrors and glassware. Over the centuries however this technique has been adapted and developed and is now applied to a multitude of different products. The intricate etched detail on each piece is exquisite in it's deign and detail, this is shown beautifully on our Etched Venetian 3 Drawer Bedside which displays the classic Urn & Foliage motif. Also within this range is the Etched Venetian Dressing Table Set (inc; Dressing Table, Stool and 3 way Dressing Table Mirror) this is one of our most popular sellers within this collection due to it's elegant design and versatility to go with almost any colour scheme and decor whether it be modern contemporary or chic an classic.

The Moulin Noir 5ft Carved Bed

2009-06-19T04:24:00.000-07:00

Our hugely popular Moulin Noir range takes it's name from the fabulous and ostentatious era of the Moulin Rouge, the birth place of the timeless can-can dance. This title could not be better placed than with our Moulin Noir range as it has all the traits of a provocative and seductive courtesan enticing their next potential client. The French Carved bed is a particularly stunning piece as it makes a real statement with its detailed carved head & foot board and mat ebony colour. Another fabulous and flamboyant piece within in this range is the newly arrived 2 door mirrored armoire, with bevelled edged glass and a beautifully intricate carved crown; this piece makes the perfect accompaniment to to the carved french bed. The Moulin Noir range is perfect for those wanting to express themselves that little bit more and make an impressive impact on a room.

Rustic Oak Furniture

2009-06-18T08:05:00.000-07:00

At the Furniture Market we are one of the leading specialists in Oak furniture and are always looking at new pieces and new collections to add to our already extensive range. We currently have high stocks of the Brooklyn Oak range which is proving as one of our best sellers, however close on its heals is the ever developing Rustic Oak range. We currently have big plans for this collection with a multitude of new pieces in the pipeline including bedroom, lounge and dining furniture. The Rustic Oak collection is as the name would suggest and ideal for people who want to achieve the subtle antique worn look with rounded edges, classic cast iron handles and chunky in it's appearance. Our current Rustic Oak range has some really inventive storage pieces such as the Rustic Oak Coffee Table which has a lower row of 4 drawers and a top which pulls apart to reveal a number of compartments inside; ideal for easy storage. Another excellent piece is the 4 over 3 Chest with 4 smaller compartments above 3 larger drawers, clutter need no longer be an issue! Our Rustic Oak range is definitely one to keep your eye on with our newly designed pieces arriving shortly.

Bright Bold Summer Lovin Furniture

2009-06-18T04:53:00.000-07:00

It looks like it might finally have arrived, Summer!!!! There is nothing like the summer sun to get you motivated into revamping and reinventing your home with this seasons hottest colours. The key to creating that fresh up to date look in your home is not to hold back on colour; hot pinks, cool blues and zesty lime greens are perfect for creating that light airy feel bringing the outdoors in. At the furniture market we are all about keeping your home looking alive and inviting. Our cerise pink armchair with floral cushion is the perfect addition to any home, teamed with our plain mirrored furniture range the light & airy feel can be achieved effortlessly in any lounge. Our new 2 drawer mirrored coffee table and console table have the versatility needed when introducing those bold colours into a room generating light and reflecting colour throughout your whole room.

Brooklyn Oak Bed

2009-06-17T09:31:00.000-07:00

We have received our first shipment of the new Brooklyn Oak King Size Slat bed designed by ourselves. We saw a gap in the Brooklyn Oak furniture range for a sturdy solid bed that is unobtrusive around the foot board area but still provides a presence with its solid oak slated headboard. This 5ft slat bed is a great addition to our Brooklyn Oak range and is a complete steal at £349.00. This bed makes a perfect accompaniment to our already extensive bedroom range featuring many of our best sellers, the Brooklyn Oak 3 Drawer Bedside and the Brooklyn Oak 2 over 4 Chest. We are really pleased with this latest design and anticipate a whole host of new arrivals to our oak ranges in the near future.

Fabulous Mirrored Chests

2009-06-17T03:32:00.000-07:00

We have just taken stock of the newly designed plain mirrored glass 2 over 2 drawer chest. This chest has been long awaited addition to our already popular plain mirrored furniture range. It is quite simple in design with plain mirrored glass with bevelled edges and all the drawers have glass pumpkin knobs. We have introduced it at a very low SALE price of £289 to add an easy addition to the matching mirrored 3 drawer bedside and 5 drawer tallboy chest. This is an already very popular range that will be having a lot more additions over the next coming months, so watch this space if mirrored furniture is wanted in your place!

Welcome to the blogging @ The Furniture Market

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Let me tell you all about us.

We have a long history in furniture, originating from the early 90's selling antique style French furniture at antique fairs and trade shows, we have some what developed into an large furniture manufacturing, sourcing and retail business.

We now have many of our French style furniture designs manufactured to our own designs and to that of our customers. Offering you more choice and at an unbeatable price.

We also specialise in Oak furniture and have many different solid oak collections that cater for the contemporary home to the more traditional country cottage.

Mirrored furniture is now becoming more popular with its fashionable designs and much improved design quality, it is the perfect choice for those with an interior design flair.

We source our furniture direct from many different manufacturers all around the world, this way we cut out the middle man and their margin, this enables us to retail direct from the factory at discounted prices.

With our effective delivery network we can deliver your furniture nationwide and provide you with a 2 hour time slot. We still look after customers like the old fashioned way of treating each order with the personal care that it deserves.

If you have any queries or would like any more information on any of our products please feel free to contact us on 01829 759 259.

We are happy to hear from you and are more than willing to answer any of your question.

I hope that we have the pleasure of supplying you with some quality furniture in the near future as I am sure you will be impressed with our excellent customer service and value for money.

Adrian Latham
Managing Director