With a focus on making unique surface finishes more accessible, NGC Nafees joins the Love That Design Community.
Established in 2006 primarily as a wallpaper-offering enterprise, NGC Nafees has transitioned into being one of the finest surface finishing suppliers across UAE. With a solid run of more than a decade and a half, they now provide solutions for wall coverings, flooring, and fabrics. But it’s apparent that the portfolio expansion is just the beginning for the company. Their passion for interior design reflects in their vibrant product catalogue.
Providing a magnanimous range of products from 50+ brands across the US and Europe, NGC Nafees is one of the most versatile suppliers in the surface finishing market. Staying true to its tagline of “Elevating spaces, one finish at a time”, their products display a vast array of textures, patterns, and colours.
The team at NGC Nafees thrives by analysing design trends and ideas that fuel the company to be more innovative. The company also has a flair for sustainability and makes a conscious attempt to be mindful of its carbon footprint. It makes sustainable materials and products more accessible by associating with brands that are environmentally-responsible.
“NGC Nafees specialises in wallcoverings, floors, and fabrics. I envision a world where every space tells a unique and captivating story. Our commitment to quality, innovation, and creativity sets us apart in the industry. With each product we create, we strive to transform interiors into functional, sustainable & sophisticated spaces, comparable to art, and to bring beauty and comfort to people’s lives. Our success lies in the harmony we create between aesthetics and functionality, and we will continue to push the boundaries of design to bring remarkable experiences to our customers.”
– James Prathap, General Manager of NGC Nafees.
NGC Nafees has worked on a number of large-scale projects like Emirates Park Zoo Resort across F&B, healthcare, hospitality and government sectors. Just last year NGC was selected as a supplier for wall covering in the iconic Marsa Al Arab hotel, and has since added the Fairmont Bab Al Bahr as a custom carpet supplier and Meydan as a custom carpet and wallcoverings supplier to the list.
NGC Nafees aims to take their surface finishing products to a larger audience, showcase their participation in regional projects and partake in industry discussions.
Welcome to the magical world of designing your new nursery!
When it comes to crafting that perfect space for your little one, nothing breathes life into a room quite like the right wallpaper for nurseries. Whether you’re a parent-to-be, eagerly anticipating the pitter-patter of tiny feet, or an interior designer seeking fresh inspiration, this post has got you covered.
Here, we’ll journey together through a wonderland of colors, patterns, and textures, exploring how wallpaper can transform a basic room into a nurturing, creative sanctuary for your baby.
Wallpaper isn’t just about aesthetic appeal – it’s a storytelling tool, a canvas to inspire dreams, and a backdrop to create memories. From understated elegance to bold, whimsical prints, the choice of kids wallpaper can set the tone for a myriad of delightful nursery themes.
So, whether you’re an ardent DIY enthusiast, or a beginner wanting to dip your toes into the world of nursery design, let’s discover together how wallpaper can turn your nursery from bland to brilliant!
Here are some tips and tricks of the trade that can guide you in creating a nursery that’s as unique as your precious little one.
1. Choose a theme.
Start by selecting a theme for the nursery. This could be anything from woodland creatures, to whimsical patterns, to subtle textures.
In choosing a theme, you might also want to consider wallpaper for a girl’s nursery or wallpaper for a boy’s nursery if you’re particular about colors and designs associated with a specific gender. For example, the color pink is typically considered a feminine color while blue denotes masculinity.
Of course, any color would do if you’re not into traditional color associations. You’ll also have a vast color palette and more designs to choose from.
If you’re designing for your child, consider the things you wish to share with them. For designers, understand the parents’ vision, their passions, and the feeling they want to evoke in the space.
The wallpaper design and color can dramatically affect how big or small a room appears.
Lighter, pastel colors can help small rooms feel larger and more open, while darker colors can make large rooms feel cozy.
Don’t overlook natural lighting either. If the nursery has ample natural light, you can afford to experiment with darker shades without worrying about the room feeling gloomy.
When it comes to choosing a wallpaper for a nursery room, you can select from traditional, peel-and-stick, or vinyl wallpapers.
Traditional wallpapers are durable but require more effort to install and remove. Peel-and-stick options offer convenience in installation and removal, though they might not be as long-lasting.
Vinyl wallpapers are easy to clean, a trait that’s a boon for a nursery, though the design options might be more limited.
So, during wallpaper selection, make sure you consider these factors:
Durability and cleanliness: Nurseries are active spaces, so consider durability and ease of cleaning in your wallpaper selection. A washable wallpaper can be a lifesaver when inevitable messes occur. If you choose non-washable wallpaper, consider adding a protective finish for longevity.
Safety: Ensure the wallpaper for your baby’s room is non-toxic. Check that it is free from harmful chemicals such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and phthalates, which could potentially harm children’s health.
Longevity: Look for wallpapers designed for busy, high-traffic areas such as hallways, family rooms, mudrooms, kitchens, bathrooms and of course, kid’s rooms. With wallpapers made for heavy use, you can encourage freedom of movement for the people who need it most: your little ones.
Pattern size and complexity: Consider the impact of pattern size on the room. Large patterns can be overwhelming in small spaces, while small patterns may be lost in large rooms. Simplicity is often best for a nursery. Overly complex patterns might become a source of visual overstimulation for the baby.
Flexibility for growth: Remember, children grow up fast. A wallpaper design that’s too babyish might be outgrown quickly. Consider choosing a design that can grow with your child, possibly transitioning from a nursery to a toddler’s room. Think timeless, rather than age-specific.
Stimulating to the senses: Wallpapers now come in a variety of textures, from smooth to embossed designs. Textured wallpaper can add a sensory element to the room. Touch is a vital sense for a baby’s development, so consider this when selecting the design.
Testing: Just like with paint, it’s wise to test wallpaper samples before making a final decision. Observe how it looks at different times of the day and under artificial light.
If you’re worried about the room being too busy, consider wallpapering just one wall to create a feature or accent wall.
Using wallpaper for a nursery accent wall will bring a nice pop of color or pattern without overwhelming the space.
The Best Types of Wallpaper for a Nursery
Selecting the right wallpaper for a nursery is a critical step in the design process. Here are some top choices to consider:
Non-woven wallpaper: These are excellent for nurseries. They’re made from a blend of synthetic and natural fibers, making them breathable (which helps to prevent mold), washable, and durable. They’re easy to install and remove without leaving any residue.
Vinyl wallpaper: Vinyl wallpapers are popular choices due to their durability and ease of cleaning. They’re resistant to moisture, making them ideal for a nursery where spills and messes are commonplace. However, when choosing vinyl wallpapers, it’s essential to ensure that they are low-VOC or VOC-free, as some may release volatile organic compounds over time.
Peel and stick wallpaper: Also known as removable wallpaper, this type is great for a nursery design that you intend to change as your child grows. It’s user-friendly and can be removed without damaging the walls, which is ideal if you live in a rented property. Just like with vinyl wallpaper, you should look for low-VOC or VOC-free options.
Textured wallpaper: Adding a sensory element to the nursery, textured wallpaper can provide a subtle way for your baby to engage with their surroundings. Whether it’s a soft flock, a raised pattern, or a brushed suede effect, ensure it’s also easy to clean and free of harmful chemicals.
Eco-friendly wallpaper: For environmentally conscious parents, eco-friendly wallpaper made from natural sustainable materials, like bamboo, grass cloth, or cork, is an excellent choice. This type of wallpaper is usually free from harmful chemicals and can add a unique aesthetic to your nursery.
Remember, whichever wallpaper type you choose, safety and ease of maintenance should be your primary considerations.
Always double-check for harmful substances, and opt for a design that can be cleaned easily and withstand the test of time.
Designing your little one’s room is an art form that welcomes individuality. There’s no one-size-fits-all rule here (and no place for plain wallpaper either) – just a kaleidoscope of colors, patterns, and textures waiting to be harnessed by your creativity.
Whether you’re a parent looking to create a warm, nurturing space, or an interior designer seeking to add that personal touch to a client’s nursery, wallpaper is your perfect canvas. Use it to express a mood, tell a story, or build a world of dreams for that tiny, special someone.
There are many ways to add visual interest to a room in your home, and adding a beautiful rug is one of them. If you’re a homeowner with wall-to-wall carpets in Dubai, know that laying down rugs on your carpeted floors is definitely not off-limits to you. On the contrary, layering rugs over carpets is a great way to infuse your living spaces with a touch of personality and even make them more comfortable overall for you and your family.
Need a little more convincing?
Why Layer Rugs Over Carpets?
● It can freshen up the look of a room without requiring a complete overhaul.
When you think about changing up the design of your rooms, your mind might immediately spiral around thoughts of tearing down walls, hammering in new fixtures, or painting over everything in a brand-new shade.
However, the changes you must make certainly don’t have to be so drastic. This simple act of putting down an area rug can immediately create a fresh visual impact. It’s an especially perfect solution if you’re renting and cannot make major renovations in your space.
● With so many rug and carpet designs, there are virtually countless ways you can transform the look and feel of your space.
The exciting part about using area rugs over carpets is that there are so many rug and carpet designs available, so there are limitless possibilities for transforming the look of your rooms. The right combination of rug and carpet you choose will yield a unique and pleasing result.
If it’s your first time to layer rugs and carpets, here’s a helpful interior design guide you can follow.
4 Layering Tips From the Experts
1. Where to Start? Choose a Room with More Space Than Furniture.
For best results, always select a room with plenty of space to move around, not one cramped with too much furniture and decor. There’s no use accentuating a space with rugs if they won’t be prominent in a visually busy space.
Rugs can help create different vignettes or distinct sections in a large space. For example, a base rug that covers most of the floor can be visually divided by putting smaller rugs underneath the sofa and a couple of chairs.
Adding an area rug can freshen up a simple or minimalist bedroom or living room. If, for example, the space has colorful home wallpaper with a relatively striking design, you can still work with that, too. Pair a solid rug with another patterned one to create a balance.
2. Crazy for color? Consider layering rugs within the same color family.
Most people love using colors to decorate their space, but combining too many or too contrasting ones can spell disaster. In this respect, simpler is better.
Instead of introducing a rug color that would aggressively clash with the rest of the space for the sake of surprise, choose a rug that complements the color of your current carpet because they’re within the same shades of one color. Another tip if you love color is to go bold with the rug if the carpet is plain or neutral.
3. Easing into design changes? Choose between patterns and textures.
If too much color isn’t your thing, there are other ways to make exciting design changes using rugs. You can play with patterns and textures instead.
Some interior design experts recommend examples like layering a patterned rug over a natural one for a harmonious look. But more adventurous homeowners could also feel free to experiment with mixing patterns with shapes and solids if it feels right. Just keep the patterned piece on top for some visual fun. And here’s a bonus: Patterns are excellent at subtly hiding the occasional stains, especially in households with children or ones that throw frequent parties.
4. Love plush? Dial back a bit when layering rugs.
While layering two or even three rugs can work wonders for visual appeal, it’s also essential to consider the textures of the floor coverings you choose. Thick and luxurious carpets and rugs add a softness to the space and help it feel cozy, but they can’t be used together. The layers must have firm support; otherwise, the area rug will wrinkle, shift, buckle, and be too high. You don’t want a tripping hazard in your home.
For looped or short-pile carpets, a thick and shaggy rug is a good match. On the other hand, if your carpet is thick and plush, choose a low-pile or woven rug for layering.
Of course, these tips are simple guidelines for layering rugs. At the end of the day, your home will look the most beautiful and become the coziest it can be when you follow your instincts and select the rug colors, patterns and textures you love the most.
Being a pet owner can be incredibly fulfilling, but it can also present challenges when it comes to maintaining the quality of furniture.
With furry friends around, it’s crucial to select furniture upholstery that can withstand scratches, pet hair, stains, and general wear and tear.
But before you start researching commercial fabrics designed to withstand prolonged and heavy use, know that there are great upholstery fabric options for pet owners available.
Whether you’re a fur parent or the owner of a pet-friendly facility or space, this guide will delve into the world of the best upholstery fabrics for pets. This way, you can get insights and advice on how to make the right choice when it comes to pet-friendly furniture upholstery.
The Importance of Using Pet-Friendly Upholstery
Choosing the best upholstery fabric options for pet owners is essential if you want to maintain the durability and appearance of furniture.
The right fabric choice will not only resist wear and tear but also make cleaning easier, providing a comfortable, easy-to-maintain space for both you and your pets.
Some key factors to consider when looking for pet-proof upholstery fabric include:
Durability
Resistance to pet dander and hair
Stain resistance
Easy maintenance
4 Types of Pet-Friendly Upholstery Fabrics
There are various fabrics available that are well-suited for homes with pets and spaces where furry friends are welcome. These materials have unique features that make them ideal for withstanding the challenges posed by pets.
Some popular pet-friendly furniture fabric options include:
Leather: A popular choice among pet owners, leather is known for its durability and resistance to scratches. It’s also easy to clean and repels pet hair. However, it may not be suitable for homes or places with cats, as their thin, sharp claws can still puncture the material. Your option if you want cat- or dog-proof couch material made of leather is to put a blanket or slipcover as it’ll work as an additional layer of protection. Also, if you’re a cat parent, make sure your fur baby’s claws are trimmed regularly.
Microfiber: Microfiber is a synthetic fabric that’s both durable and stain-resistant. It’s easy to clean and maintain, and doesn’t attract fur or pet hair making it a great option for households with pets and pet-friendly establishments.
INSPIRATION
Canvas: Being a heavy-duty fabric, canvas is resistant to wear and tear. It can be treated with a stain-resistant finish to make it more suitable for pet-friendly spaces. Canvas slipcovers can be easily removed and washed, so maintenance is a breeze.
Crypton: Crypton is a high-performance fabric that’s resistant to stains, odors, and bacteria. It’s designed specifically for use in homes with pets and is incredibly durable.
Fabrics to Avoid
Pet-friendly establishments and pet owners should avoid certain upholstery fabrics that are more susceptible to damage, stains, and the accumulation of pet hair.
Some fabrics to avoid include:
Silk: Since it’s a delicate fabric, silk can be easily damaged by pet claws, especially those of cats. Silk is also prone to staining and can be difficult to clean, making it an unsuitable choice for pet-friendly spaces.
Velvet: While luxurious in appearance, velvet can be a magnet for pet hair and dander. It’s also more susceptible to staining and difficult to clean.
Chenille: Chenille is a soft fabric with a plush, textured surface. However, its looped construction means it can be easily snagged by pet claws, causing the material to fray, look unsightly and wear down over time.
Suede: A type of leather with a napped finish, suede can be easily scratched and stained by pets. Additionally, it attracts pet hair and can be challenging to clean.
Tweed: The textured surface of tweed can trap pet hair, dander, and dirt. Its woven construction also makes it prone to snagging and damage from pet claws.
Light-colored fabrics: Regardless of their material, light-colored fabrics will show stains, dirt, and pet hair easily.
What to Consider When Choosing Pet-Friendly Furniture Fabrics
When selecting the best pet-friendly upholstery, consider the following factors:
Type of pet: Different pets have different requirements when it comes to upholstery. For example, cat owners should avoid leather, as cat claws can puncture the material. Dog owners may opt for materials like canvas or microfiber, which are more resistant to wear and tear.
Pet hair: If your pet sheds a lot, consider choosing a fabric that’s resistant to pet hair. Materials like leather and microfiber don’t attract pet hair, making them ideal choices for pet-friendly spaces.
Cleaning and maintenance: Choose fabrics that are easy to clean and maintain. You may also consider using removable slipcovers, stain-resistant finishes, and materials like microfiber and leather for ease of upkeep.
Color and pattern: Selecting upholstery in darker colors and patterns can help hide pet hair and stains. If you’re a fur parent, you may want to go for a fabric that complements your pet’s fur color to camouflage the appearance of its hair on your furniture.
INSPIRATION
Some Tips for Maintaining Pet-Friendly Furniture
Once you’ve chosen the perfect pet-friendly upholstery, it’s important to take proper care of your furniture to ensure its longevity.
Some tips for maintaining the best pet-friendly sofa fabric include:
Regular vacuuming: Vacuum your furniture regularly to remove pet hair and dander. This will help keep your upholstery looking fresh and clean.
Protective covers: Consider using protective covers or slipcovers to safeguard your furniture from pet-related accidents. These can be easily removed and washed when necessary.
Pet grooming: Grooming pets regularly will help reduce shedding and minimize the amount of hair that’ll end up on your furniture. Ensure that pet nails are trimmed to avoid damage to the upholstery.
Training pets: You can teach your pets to avoid certain furnishings or areas of your home. You can also provide them with their own designated pet beds or furniture. This can help immensely in reducing the wear and tear on your upholstery.
Spot cleaning: Attend to stains and spills immediately by spot cleaning affected areas using a mild detergent and water. Make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning specific types of fabrics.
Cushion rotation: Regularly rotating and flipping the cushions on your furniture can help distribute wear and tear more evenly, prolonging the life of your upholstery.
Professional cleaning: Schedule professional upholstery cleaning every 12-18 months to keep your furniture looking its best. Expert furniture cleaners can get rid of dirt, stains, and allergens that may have accumulated over time or with heavy use.
Find the Right Upholstery With Pets in Mind
Choosing pet-friendly furniture upholstery is an essential aspect of creating a comfortable and inviting space for playful fur babies.
By considering factors such as durability, resistance to pet hair, stain resistance, and ease of maintenance, you can find the perfect fabric to suit your needs.
Leather, microfiber, canvas, and Crypton are all excellent options if you’re looking for pet-friendly upholstery.
If you’re in the market for pet-friendly furniture that can provide years of comfort and style in your space, NGC Nafees is ready to help.
Nothing can be more uncomfortable than stepping on a cold floor when you wake up in the middle of the night or early in the morning.
Experiencing this every day can be so frustrating and annoying that you might want to avoid getting out of bed entirely.
However, there is an easy fix for this problem: installing carpet in your bedroom.
Carpets and carpet tiles in Dubai are so warm, soft, cozy and plush that you’ll love walking over them any time of the day. These features even make them comfy enough for you and your family (including your pets) to sleep and sit on.
The wide array of materials, colors, designs and sizes also make carpets the ideal floor covering option for your bedroom if you want to personalize and enhance its look.
Top Bedroom Carpet Ideas for Nicer, Comfier Bedrooms
If you’re planning to spruce up your bedroom with a new carpet or carpet tiles, below are some ideas you can consider to have a cozier, lovelier space:
1. Opt for Neutral Carpets for a Calming, Comfy Room.
Carpets in neutral hues bring a sense of softness, warmth and calmness to any room. These are vibes that you’ll want to have in your bedroom.
Therefore, choosing carpets or carpet tiles in gray, beige, cream and other neutral colors is one of the top bedroom carpet ideas you can consider.
These hues are also your best option for your carpet if your bedroom has a cool tone palette. The neutral floor covering can bring warmth to the space and make the room look and feel more comfortable.
If you want to make your bedroom look elegant, add decorations and features that scream luxury. These include silk bedding and velvet or cashmere cushions.
A lovely gilded dresser and velvet armchairs can make your bedroom look and feel more luxurious.
Pantone’s 2023 color for the year is magenta, which is a hue of crimson red. If you’re leaning towards modern bedroom carpet ideas, choose a floor covering that comes in this tone.
Dark bedroom ideas are timeless, which means you won’t go wrong with selecting a floor covering in dark tones.
A dark carpet can make a spacious bedroom feel more intimate and elegant at the same time. As such, it is a great option if you have a large space that conveys a cold vibe.
If you want the bedroom’s occupants to feel pampered, opt for a dark carpet with warm tones.
Whether you go for cool or warm tones, dark carpets are excellent options since they don’t show dirt and stains easily. Because of this, consider installing them in your children’s bedrooms and other high-traffic areas.
Wool and sisal are two of the best carpets for bedrooms. Both types are made of natural fibers.
Wool carpeting is considered by many as one of the best plush carpets for bedrooms since they are soft and hard-wearing and look luxurious. Their durability also makes them ideal for other high-traffic spaces in your home.
On the other hand, sisal looks like large area rugs, thus adding the right amount of texture and neutral tones in bedrooms. Their simple, low-pile design and look make them the ideal floor covering for minimalist and rustic bedrooms.
Like wool carpets, sisal floor coverings are durable. They are stain-resistant as well. As such, they are also suitable for high-traffic spaces.
If you’re looking for a luxury bedroom carpet, opt for a wool Berber carpet. This type can add a touch of elegance to any space while being durable and spill-resistant.
Carpets made of natural materials help keep bedrooms warm during the cold season and cool in the hotter months. They can also absorb noise to keep rooms calming and relaxing.
If you’re looking for fun and charming carpet bedroom ideas for your children, include floor covering with playful, interesting patterns.
If you want something simple, go for striped carpets. Stripes add visual interest to the floor and the entire room effortlessly.
Moreover, floor covering with linear stripes can make a room look bigger, making them one of the best small bedroom carpet ideas you should consider.
For a more eye-catching option, opt for a zig-zag carpet. This bold and fun design can give any bedroom a quirky look and vibe and liven it up instantly.
Lastly, one bedroom carpet idea you should try is layering the floor covering with rugs.
Although rugs, particularly large ones, are excellent alternatives to carpets, you can use them to accentuate your bedroom floors.
Placing an appealing rug or more on specially chosen areas over your full bedroom carpet can add warmth and dimension to the room and enhance its appeal.
To use this design technique correctly, pick a rug with a bold hue that compliments the color of your wall-to-wall carpets in Dubai or carpet tiles and surrounding décor. Doing so ensures you have a feature that doubles as a lovely focal point in the bedroom.
Another trick is to layer rugs with different shapes and patterns to give your floor an extra-comfy look.
When you want to change the look and feel of your bedroom, try these carpet ideas. You’ll have a better-looking and comfy space you’ll love spending plenty of time in.
Explore our various floor covering products to find the best ones to install in your bedrooms.
A hotel room serves as a home away from home for many people. As such, it requires an interior design composed of elements beyond providing a roof over their head.
Hotel room curtains are among the most crucial elements that can help you with this.
Essential for achieving comfort, relaxation, and luxury, these window treatments can bring an entire room together.
Curtains offer shade and soundproofing to make the space more conducive for sleep and rest. They also help insulate the rooms from hot summers or provide warmth on cool winter nights. Plus, they help ensure the hotel guests’ privacy and safety.
Getting ready to choose a window treatment for your guest rooms? Here are eight types of hotel room curtains, categorized according to the commercial fabrics they are made from and the way they are applied in the interior design:
1. Blackout Curtains
Blackout curtains are usually the first choice for hotel guest rooms, as well as theaters and private bedrooms.
As the name suggests, these window treatments block the light from outside, dimming down the overall lighting inside the room.
Blackout curtains are made from heavy fabric and offer the most privacy among all window treatments used in residential and commercial spaces.
Five-star hotels also prefer these because they help make the room more energy-efficient and safer, especially when small children are around.
The only downside is that blackout curtains can be a bit pricier and require more accessories to style.
Also known as half-length curtains, apron curtains are the perfect choice for situations that call for shorter window treatments.
This type of curtain is usually used when a piece of furniture or other large furnishings like air conditioners or radiators are placed under the window. They are also preferred in residential spaces that cater to pets and small children.
These curtains won’t get too dusty, too, since it usually sits a few inches below the windowsill and well above the floor.
3. Tieback Curtains
Besides length and fabric opacity, hotels also design their draperies so that they can be opened up in different ways. Tiebacks are among the most common.
Tieback curtains have one or both panels tied to one side, allowing natural light inside. This type of curtain can also help create a specific look for the room. For example, tying back the pair of curtains makes the window appear narrower.
Tieback curtains can also be tied slightly higher or lower than the middle of the window. The higher you tie it, the taller the window will seem.
4. Crisscross/Crossover Curtains
A variation of the tieback style, crisscross or crossover curtains offer additional glam and pizzazz to a hotel room. These make windows look wider than they actually are.
To pull it off, all you need to do is cross over two sheer hotel curtain panels across the width of the window and tie back each panel to the opposite side of the window.
Of course, this will require a special set of drapery, clipped together using rings to achieve that timeless and romantic layered look.
Looking for a way to achieve a dreamy ambiance in your hotel room but without the complexity of the crisscross curtain? Consider using draw curtains.
Typically made of opaque or translucent fabrics, these curtains are mounted on traverse rods.
Draw curtains were previously used as an added layer between glass curtains and draperies. But today, these hotel curtains have emerged from the shadows and made it to the trendiest curtain styles in 2022 as a standalone window treatment.
6. Fold Back Curtains
Mix and match plains and prints with this quirky curtain style that uses a pair of double-sided shades hung on double curtain rods across the entire width of the window.
As the name implies, these window treatments are folded back to show the contrasting designs of the fabrics used to make them.
For maximum impact, match a sheer neutral-colored curtain with a patterned drapery.
If you’re not a fan of stiff window treatments like blinds but like the way they neatly tuck away when needed, there’s a good chance you’ll love roll-up curtains.
Made of study fabric, roll-up curtains – or shades – can be rolled and unrolled. These can be held in your desired position by a sash made of the same contrasting fabric as the lining of the shades.
When rolled up, the colored lining and top of the fabric frames the rest of the window treatment, showing off its own beauty alongside that of the window.
8. Swags, Cascades, and Valances
Other fabric window treatments perfect for hotel rooms are swags, cascades, and valances.
Want to highlight your windows while hiding curtain headings? Why not add swags? These decorative draperies offer the best solution.
Meanwhile, a cascade (also called a jabot) is made of tapered and folded fabric to create vertical pleats. These can be used with swags to frame the windows.
Valances are window treatments that cover the uppermost portion of the window. They can be hung alone or with curtains or window blinds and should never reach under one-sixth of the window’s height (around 10 to 12 inches in depth).
These three can be combined together with other curtain types to produce a gorgeous look for your hotel room windows.
Curtains and other window treatments make hotel rooms look more luxurious. Want to offer better comfort and style to your guests? Use this article to choose the best hotel room curtains.
Need high-end textiles for other interior design elements? Visit NGC Nafees showrooms or browse our online fabric catalog to find the most gorgeous selections in the Middle East.
GC Nafees held a panel discussion in their newly renovated showroom. Image supplied
The Middle East has a long history of opulent and maximalist design, particularly in the realm of residential interiors. However, a recent panel discussion hosted by NGC Nafees and Commercial Interior Design magazine aimed to explore whether this aesthetic preference has shifted towards minimalism.
The panel consisted of Lara Francis el Hani from Kling Consult, Grammatiki Zamani of Kiklos Architects, Leali Ezzat from ELE Interiors, and Hannah Bower Brooks of Cherwell Interiors. The discussion was led by Marina Mrdjen from Intelier, who explored practical examples of local home design projects.
As one of the most noticeable features of a living room, your walls need to highlight or, at the very least, complement your interior design style.
If you want an easy way to ensure your living room matches your interior design theme, wallpapers are your best
option.
Wallpapers come in so many different colors and patterns that you can easily find one that features or matches your interior design theme.
Your living room wallpaper can even set the stage and transform this space if you want to change and elevate its design and look dramatically.
You can also use wallpaper to create a custom mural with a design of your choice that can act as a focal point to change the look and mood of your living room.
Wallpaper Design Themes for an Elevated Living Room
If you wish to change your home’s interior style and want to use your walls as the starting point, consider these living room wall covering ideas and themes to change the look and feel of the space significantly:
1. Art Deco
Art deco style was born in the 1920s, which is why it is reminiscent of The Great Gatsby, the famous novel and movie.
This style highlights geometric shapes, graphic patterns, polished and glossy features and furnishings. It also showcases bold, artistic expressions with striking touches.
Wallpapers with bright, exotic and contrasting colors, including blue, gold, green, silver and red are redolent of the art deco interior theme. Products with elaborate and opulent designs and patterns convey this style further.
Examples of wall covering designs that tie in with this theme include floral with large, vibrant flowers, colorful animal patterns and elaborate geometric outlines.
A modern interior design is usually a complex overlay of careful compositions, well-thought-out functionality and defined lines. It emphasizes clear-cut forms and visual simplicity as well.
Although the style focuses on simplicity, it still conveys beauty and elegance.
Wallpapers with defined lines and uniform patterns and shapes are your best options for your walls.
Floral patterns and nature-inspired wall coverings are excellent products that add a touch of modern look to your living space while effortlessly bringing in the outdoors indoors.
Stripes are also the perfect accouterments in a modern living room. Therefore, vertically and horizontally striped wallpapers are great options.
The minimalist interior style was inspired by traditional Japanese design and Zen philosophy.
This theme emphasizes aesthetics revolving around the design’s efficiency. It is free of distractions or clutter and maximizes bold visual impact and the room’s underlying functionality.
Wallpapers with minimal elements and motifs and hushed hues make for excellent living room wall coverings with a minimalist interior design theme.
Additionally, wall coverings with a standout accent or two do well in the room’s design style.
Lastly, wallpapers featuring line repetition and movement are also great options.
Wallpapers with subtle, neutral grain textures and concrete, calico, brick and linen styles or effects are perfect examples of products to decorate your minimalist living room’s walls.
You can also go for a plain wallpaper with warm, neutral tones.
The Scandinavian interior design style emphasizes simplicity and functionality; however, it also adds warmth and coziness to the concept.
This theme embodies a color palette teeming with black, white, gray, and blue tones. An occasional vibrant hue can be added to bring visual appeal and respite to the design.
Wallpapers with this theme feature these hues as well as rounded contours and silhouettes and organic textures.
For Scandinavian-inspired wall coverings, you won’t go wrong with abstract geometric shapes, flowers and leaves.
Wallpapers with stripes and trees and a wooden look go well with a Scandinavian interior design.
The industrial interior design style focuses on the raw beauty of different building parts and transforming them into something more appealing and functional.
These elements include columns, beams, ducts and pipes.
Although this interior design may seem too modern and trendy to some people, when done correctly, it can be rustic and pleasing.
Popular colors that convey an industrial design theme include warm and neutral tones, such as shades of red, brown and gray. However, white, blue and black are also popular hues.
Wallpaper designs that imitate bricks, cement structures, rough concrete and dilapidated plaster can complete your industrial-themed living room.
This interior design style represents region- and age-specific looks and finishes. Examples of these include classic Victorian, French and European décor.
Traditional or classic interior designs are known for their features and furniture with interesting silhouettes. However, their backdrops, which your wallpaper should exemplify, are typically simple and light, with vibrant colors and lines that add classical opulence to the room.
Wallpapers with traditional designs are often intricate and elaborate that catch the eye and evoke awe. Popular patterns include damask, floral stripes, vines, paisley, and acanthus scroll.
If you want to install a wallpaper mural in your living room with any of these themes, you need to have it customized.
First, prepare a photo of the design. Next, measure the wall you will cover and take note of the measurements.
You then have to choose the type of mural you want to be made. This can be peel and stick, self-adhesive, or paste the wall or paper.
Lastly, contact us to start the wallpaper customization process. We provide custom wall mural printing based on your preferred design and size created by a team of expert technicians and studio designers.
Mosques are special places for Muslims. They are places for prayer, introspection, and reflection, where Muslims can go to fulfill all of their five ritual and obligatory daily prayers. Mosques especially come alive during midday prayers, when communal praying at a mosque (particularly on Fridays) is encouraged.
Therefore, mosques must be decorated in a way that befits their purpose. They should inspire awe, but they should also be warm, inviting and, most importantly, comfortable.
To this end, flooring has a crucial role, and as a carpet flooring Dubai supplier, we have tips on choosing the perfect carpet for a mosque.
1. Decide on the Best Carpet Design for the Space
Design is one of the most important considerations when choosing a carpet for any space. Specifically, you need to consider whether the carpet’s color and pattern suit the area you’ll use it on. You want a carpet that ties in with the mosque’s whole aesthetic.
Popular colors include jade green, crimson, and turquoise blue, but a mosque carpet can be any color that complements the mosque’s interior design and architecture. Neutral colors (tan, beige, brown — i.e., the colors of sand) are also preferred.
Typically, more than one complementing or contrasting color comprises a mosque carpet’s color palette.
Tip: Dark colors are great for mosques. They are warm, somber, and thus particularly suitable for the purpose. They are also better at hiding stains and dirt than light-colored carpets.
Mosque carpets are also almost always patterned. Patterns vary, but they are almost always one of three types: geometric, arabesque, and calligraphic. The circle, repeated and combined in many different iterations, is a popular geometric design, while stylized or semi-abstract intertwined plants and flowers often comprise arabesque patterns. Islamic arches are also a popular carpet pattern.
Tip: If you are picking a carpet for a large open space, it’s a good idea to choose something lined or bordered. This pattern can help direct or focus the gaze on the space’s focal point – say, an important work of art at the other end of the room. You can also use it to emphasize the size of the room.
However, more than design, they serve the purpose of neatly organizing people into single rows. This is a good idea in mosques that can get particularly crowded during prayer times.
2. Choose the Right Carpet Type for Your Needs
Should you go for carpet tiles or wall-to-wall carpeting?
Wall-to-wall carpets are broadlooms or wide-width carpets. One wall-to-wall carpet can cover an entire room by itself, although in bigger areas like mosques, you probably require multiple pieces of wall-to-wall carpets to cover the floor completely.
Carpet tiles, meanwhile, are modular, square-shaped carpeting that you can put together to cover the entire floor. Each carpet square can measure from 48 cm x 48 cm to 96 cm x 96 cm, although they should be available at even smaller or larger tile sizes.
Wall-to-wall carpets are recommended for large-scale, unique, and complicated designs. Your wall-to-wall carpets Dubai supplier can supply custom-made rugs. This will guarantee your large-scale patterns are recreated exactly as you want them to look and placed precisely where you want them to appear. You may not have as much design leeway in carpet tiles because of their limited sizes.
However, carpet tiles are easier and less costly to install than wall-to-wall carpeting. They are also easier to replace. If one square wears out, you can replace that square without replacing everything. In wall-to-wall carpets, you will probably have to replace the entire roll of carpet if a place becomes significantly worn out.
Tip: If you have a complicated design, you need wall-to-wall carpeting. However, when it comes to ease of installation and maintenance, carpet tiles win over wall-to-wall carpeting. Carpet tiles can be more practical, particularly in high-traffic areas like mosques.
To create complicated designs, you can always mix and match different designs of carpet tiles. For instance, you can mix solid or plain carpet tiles with patterned carpet squares to create more large-scale designs and patterns.
Synthetic fibers are a great alternative to natural-fiber carpets because they provide excellent value for money. Examples of synthetic fibers used in making carpets include:
Polypropylene or Olefin
Nylon
Polyester
Acrylic
Natural-fiber carpets, particularly woolen carpets, are beautiful additions to any space. They can retain their color for a long time, depending on how they were treated. You can also easily refresh and plump up their fibers again, regardless of how much crushing they go through.
However, woolen carpets can be costly. Wool is also fodder for insects. Additionally, while humidity won’t damage wool fibers, humidity, in the long run, can make wool (and other natural fiber) carpets susceptible to mold growth.
For these reasons, synthetic-fiber carpets make great alternatives to natural-fiber flooring.
Nylon carpets are best for high-traffic areas like mosques. They are resistant to crushing, stains, and mildew. Polyester carpets, meanwhile, are more affordable than nylon carpets. However, they are not as durable.
Therefore, they can be a good choice for mosque carpeting. Acrylic carpets, meanwhile, are soft and feel like wool, but they are less durable than nylon and olefin for high-traffic applications.
Tip: Mosques are high-traffic areas. Therefore, you need a carpet that can withstand the pounding of so many feet and last a long time. Otherwise, your carpet will cost you a considerable amount in upkeep.
In this case, you can choose wool or nylon carpets. While wool is an excellent material, the more practical option is nylon. It is stain-, crushing- and mildew-resistant and can withstand high-traffic and variable climate conditions. Most of all, it is more affordable than wool.
Choosing a Carpet for a Mosque
When choosing a carpet for a mosque, you have to decide on the carpet’s design, type, and material. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your priorities, such as aesthetics, cost, design application, durability, and ease of installation and maintenance.
NGC Nafees is a supplier of commercial floorings, wall coverings, and fabrics in the UAE. Contact us for our recommendations on your mosque carpeting options.
Panel discussion held in the newly renovated Deira showroom of NGC Nafees
Presenting FF&E Talks in collaboration with NGC Nafees.
Adapting to change was one lesson learned by the hospitality design industry as a result of COVID-19. Additionally, those in charge of Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment ( FF&E) struggled to find solutions to problems they had never encountered before while working to meet their project deadlines due to furniture shipping being “delayed” or manufactured under “extended lead times.”
The panel discussion, titled “The post- Covid challenges of FF&E procurement in hospitality design”, explored whether procurement and design decisions now require more planning because of the increased lead times caused by labour shortages and raw material shortages.
It featured Kristina Zanic of Kristina Zanic Consultants, Roy Posey of Hirsch Bedner Associates, Dina Murali of DZ Design, Christian Merieau of MMAC Design Associates, Alika Watson of Mitchell & Eades ME and NGC’s managing director James Prathap as their host and moderated by Marina Mrdjen from Intelier.
The six-part “FF&E Design Talks with NGC Nafees” aims to bring together leading interior designers for discussions on the challenges, opportunities, and trends in FF&E design across hospitality, commercial, and residential sectors.
Kristina Zanic: The FF&E constitutes about 45% of the budget
FF&E services are a vital part of the hotel design process and have an enormous impact on the outcome. As Zanic explains, FF&E procurement accounts for most of a project’s budget.
“Many people think that it’s just the wall panelling or ceiling decor, but I would argue that the FF&E constitutes about 45% of the budget, whether it’s the furniture and accessories, carpet flooring, wallpapers and fabrics,” says Zanic.
As a team which prefers working with tactile objects, luxury textures, and fabrics, an immediate shift from physical to digital mood boards was one of the biggest challenges Kristina Zanic’s team faced during the Covid pandemic.
“We are heavily influenced by materiality in all of our designs, so producing physical mood boards with fabrics and finishes that people can touch and feel is an essential part of our design process,” she says. “When we were working together on the Red Sea project with Kengo Kuma and his team, we were presenting to the client during the actual lockdown so we had to sneak to the office to prepare and scan the actual materials that went into our 3D visuals. I remember that we had to prepare more than 30 mood boards so not being able to get those bespoke materials and samples from suppliers was a big issue.”
In addition, Zanic addressed material shortages and fabrics and carpets that have shorter life cycles on hospitality projects, which typically last between three to five years. “We are finding a lot of material reliability issues on longer projects as a result, which means respecifying and reevaluating our designs,” she adds.
Christian Merieau: The current global supply chain crisis further fuels the demand for local suppliers
According to Merieau, before the Covid pandemic, the FF&E and procurement processes were “extremely comfortable”.
He comments: “You would just go to local suppliers and specify products for the rest of the world and we followed the same process regardless if the project was in Uganda or Nepal. The ongoing supply chain issues forced us to completely rethink how we worked and put a great deal more emphasis on the destination itself and working with local manufacturers and suppliers, whether they are in the UAE or overseas.”
In addition, Merieau emphasises the importance of involving early in the design process the procurement agents who are more familiar with the local capacities.
“We go all the way up to schematic design and then we ask the client to involve their procurement team or agency to manage their budget and ensure that everything can be delivered on time,” adds Merieau.
According to Merieau, many design studios are now diversifying from Chinese manufacturers due to shipping delays and the inability to review samples.
He says: “We previously used to go systematically to China for entry-level properties because it was simple and the factories were very competent, but the global supply chain crisis has further pushed for local manufacturing. Before the pandemic, we had already encountered some difficulties that were slowing down our processes, such as getting materials into China to make a chair. Due to the closed borders, it was almost impossible for us to review samples. Consequently, we now work more with Turkish suppliers who share the same values as us when it comes to quality and cost control.”
Dina Murali: Do local, buy local and be local
According to Dina Murali, specifying locally has given designers and suppliers an opportunity to improve. “This has also resulted in more sustainable choices,” she says.
“Even though we had a lot of backlogs and we have to redesign many of our projects due to supply chain issues, things are looking better now. We have greater resources; our supplier base has grown, and the local suppliers have improved their capabilities. So, yes I hope this trend of ‘do local, buy local and be local’ continues.”
In Murali’s view, even though hospitality designers aim to create timeless designs and designs for the future, they should still evaluate every design critically.
DZ Design’s design director comments: “We should reevaluate the designs that we have done at the end of the two-year period without thinking that this undermines what we have done previously. Social media exposure and progressive digitisation have made everything change in a matter of months so reevaluating what you have done is always a good idea.”
Roy Posey: Local craftsmen unable to cope with large quantities required for hotel properties
Posey and his team at HBA often have to come up with quick FF&E answers at the very end of the project lifecycle even when working on large hospitality projects, which usually take several years to design.
“As designers, we are all experiencing the same supply chain issues and extended lead times at the moment. Clients and developers now have a greater understanding of realistic options. In the past, we were pressured to meet their exact expectations, but now they’re more open to different approaches,” he says.
Looking back at one of HBA’s major hotel refurbishment projects during the pandemic, Posey says they were forced to compromise, not only on the overall design but the quality of materials.
In addition, local craftsmen were unable to cope with the capacity and large quantities required for hotel properties, despite producing high-quality work.
“The construction quickly continued but there was massive pressure on designers after the lockdown because the right solutions were simply not there. While supply chain issues will always affect the way designers work, the outcome will always be beautiful since that is what we are paid to do. But sometimes, this isn’t the original vision you had,” Posey concludes.
Alika Watson: Re-selecting products and finishes strains smaller design studios and their resources
Re-selecting products and specifying finishes are time-consuming tasks for smaller design studios, adding considerable strain to their resources and manpower.
“Whenever you’ve shifted resources to a new project or any stage of the project, finding the time to sit down and reselect things can cause some bottlenecks, but it’s something you have to deal with through variation. Even though you can be as prepared as you like, there’s always going to be something that’s a little different from your previous experiences. It definitely puts a lot of pressure on manpower, but the end result is worth it,” says Watson.
Additionally, with F&B projects, unlike hospitality projects with long design phases, the procurement process and timelines are more challenging because you are “hitting the ground running,” as Watson puts it.
Mitchell & Eades’ design director in the Middle East further explains: “Often you might be midway through the design when the construction is starting so you have fewer options when facing shipping delays or extended lead times. Or we’re developing a project and the client leaves the FF&E till the last minute and that can be an absolute nightmare because of stock availability or discontinued products. I think it’s important if you can be involved in the post-contract side so that you’re not just handing over your design but you continue the responsibility through the construction development.”
Murtaza Kagalwala, CEO of NGC Nafees, and James Prathap, managing director, concluded the panel discussion by welcoming the panellists to their newly renovated showroom in Deira and discussing their approaches to the current FF&E procurement issues.
“As a leading provider of high-quality wall coverings, fabrics, and commercial flooring, we have further strengthened our suppliers’ network and increased the overall stock availability so that we can meet market demands,” explains Prathap.
During the pandemic, NGC also developed an interactive website with an extensive digital material library, featuring more than 17,000 products across all categories.
“Our clients and designers can now search products by brand or even colour. The ‘add to favourites’ feature allows them to shortlist and order physical samples easily. As a company, we pride ourselves on delivering samples on the same day or within 24 hours at the latest,” adds Kagalwala.
In the next month’s FF&E panel talks with NGC Nafees, some of the most prominent commercial designers will discuss noise pollution in office environments.
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