FIV Magazine Issue #32

Inspiring fitness stories, travel tips and fashion!

• Read now: FIV Magazine #32

Cover Story: Interview with drag queen Jen Z

Jen Z is not only the face of this issue but also an impressive personality who is shaking up the drag scene with her art. In our big cover interview, Jen Z tells us what it means to be a successful drag queen in today’s world and how she manages to integrate her creativity and unique style into her performances.

Exclusive interviews: Lena’s Health Lab, Serlina Hohmann & more

Our latest issue is packed with exclusive interviews that provide in-depth insights into the lives and careers of well-known influencers, artists and content creators. We didn’t miss the opportunity to bring the most exciting personalities into the magazine. Among others, we talk to Lena’s Health Lab, Luke Jaque-Rodney, Katja Seifried, Serlina Hohmann and Loredana Chantal. It’s all about exciting recipes, motivating wellness tips and must-see travel destinations! You can also find the interviews here:

• Lena’s Health Lab
• Luke Jaque-Rodney
• Donato Emilio
• Elliuno
• Ourhomeliving
• Jojo.and.you
• Katja Seifried
• Olesja Schalnich
• Jacky Wruck
• Serlina Hohmann
• Life to Go
• Laura and Finn
• Whatsnext travel
• Loredana Chantal

Interview with Elliuno: Beauty secrets & tips

Elliuno shares the hottest makeup trends, her favorite products and simple tricks to create the perfect look that lasts all day. Discover how to accentuate your natural features and incorporate on-trend styles like doll cheeks and 90s brows into your everyday routine.

Life to go: Jessi & Daniel on world travel adventures & tips

Jessi and Daniel from“Life to go” give an insight into their exciting life traveling the world, from their first trip to Thailand to extraordinary adventures in Cuba. They reveal their best travel tips on how to discover the world on a budget and share their dream destinations for future trips.

Discover the new FIV Issue #32 now!

This issue is packed with inspiring stories and valuable insights into the world of fashion, art and influencer marketing. Be inspired by the creative minds we have interviewed for you and discover new perspectives.

Where can I read the magazine?

Read now for free online + in the FIV app:

• Magazine #32

Don’t miss out on the latest trends and stories from the world of influencers and content creators!

Old buildings and minimalism with interior lover Sandra

We caught up with Sandra, also known as Our.homeliving, and she takes us into the world of home styling and minimalism. Through her aesthetically pleasing photos and minimalist interior design style, she inspires many people and shares her passion for interior design. We share with you Sandra’s love for the Bauhaus era as well as her tips at the end that everyone can take to heart for their aesthetic and cozy interior.

• Our.homeliving Instagram
• Our.homeliving TikTok

Bauhaus era: the pioneer of modern design

FIV: Hi Sandra, nice of you to take the time for us, before we start with current affairs, let’s say you could go back in time, what era would it be?

Sandra: I believe in the Bauhaus era. As a pioneer of modern design, the Bauhaus movement laid the groundwork for many modern design trends. A visit to this period would allow you to experience the minimalist aesthetic and clean lines that continue to inspire today. I have a few coffee table books from this period and love browsing through them.

FIV: Aha – And what materials do you prefer to use to create such an aesthetic?

I love how wood creates a warm and cozy atmosphere.

Sandra: I love natural materials that bring warmth and authenticity to a room. Wood is a clear favorite for me as it offers versatility, durability and a timeless beauty. I love how wood creates a warm and cozy atmosphere while connecting with nature. We have an incredible amount of wooden furniture. Otherwise, I like to use materials such as stone and linen. Both lend a natural charm and offer an incredible amount of scope for design.

FIV: Old or new building – what do you prefer to work with and why?

Sandra: That’s a really difficult question, to be honest. I appreciate both the uniqueness of old buildings and the modern aesthetics of new buildings, but my heart definitely beats more for old buildings. We lived in an old apartment for 5 years and I loved it. Apartments in old buildings exude a unique charm. The high ceilings, the beautiful stucco decorations and the characterful wooden floors give every room a special atmosphere that I love. It’s a really exciting challenge to renovate these historic buildings and breathe new life into them while retaining their original charm and authenticity.

Minimalism – less is more

FIV: We can almost guess the answer, but let’s take another look anyway: Eclectic or minimalism?

Sandra: Definitely minimalism. I appreciate the simplicity, clarity and calm that a minimalist approach can create in a room. The clean look and reduction to the essentials particularly appeal to me and are often my guiding principles when designing.

However, I sometimes have to remind myself to stay true to this style, as there are indeed just too many beautiful things that can be tempting. Nevertheless, I make sure that my rooms always look tidy and organized, as I enjoy the calming effect of a minimalist design.

FIV: You know what’s good Sandra, why don’t you tell us 3 tips for creating the perfect home?

Think not only about aesthetics, but also about functionality.

Sandra: 1. take time to discover and define your personal interior design style. Search through sources of inspiration such as magazines, blogs and social media platforms to find out what appeals to you.

2 Then make a plan and think about how you want to use your rooms. Sketch the floor plan and experiment with different layouts. I like to create mood boards for this. They are my absolute game changers. Important: When furnishing a room, don’t just think about aesthetics, but also about functionality. Ask yourself how the room will be used and choose furniture and decorations accordingly.

3. experiment with colors and textures to add depth and dimension to your space. Choose a color palette that suits your style and personality and play with different textures.

Ceiling lights are only there to look good!

FIV: Okay, now we know what’s important, is there a faux pas that should be avoided?
Sandra: My faux pas is definitely when you don’t have enough indirect lighting. I’m not a fan of ceiling lights at all. But they still have to hang and look nice, haha.

Here you can get inspiration from Sandra for your interior:

• Our.homeliving Instagram
• Our.homeliving TikTok

Now in FIV Issue #32!

You can also discover the whole interview as well as inspiring fitness stories, travel tips and fashion in the complete magazine!

• Read now: FIV Magazine #32

More interior?

Haven’t found the right aesthetic for your own interior yet? Then let yourself be inspired here:

• Furnishing styles

The choice of lighting makes all the difference

Make-up artists prefer to work in daylight or at least with daylight-like lighting. Tips and tricks for at home.

Has this ever happened to you? At home in front of the bathroom mirror, your make-up looks great. Then the scene changes: on the go, you take a look in the mirror and see something completely different. Make-up edges, lipstick color too bright and way too much blush on your cheekbones…sure, we’ve all been there, but what can you do to prevent this from happening again in the future?

Right, as you’ve already guessed, when it comes to make-up, everything stands and falls with the right lighting. Don’t worry, you don’t have to get professional equipment now. All you really need is a new mirror.

Your new bathroom mirror: this is what it should look like

It is particularly difficult to create daylight-like conditions in bathrooms without windows. After all, the light from the midday sun is very bright and the light color is not really suitable for lighting interiors. It quickly appears uncomfortable and cold. It is also not necessary to illuminate the entire bathroom in this way. Only the area in front of the mirror needs to be illuminated if necessary.

A bathroom mirror with an integrated LED light strip is the gold standard for your perfect make-up. Make sure that the lighting is positioned on all four sides of the mirror. This way, your face is optimally illuminated when you apply your make-up – evenly and directly from the front.

No compromises: It all depends on the light color

When buying your new bathroom mirror, it is essential that you ask about the right light color.

Only LEDs with neutral white light can simulate daylight.

Although warm white tones are suitable for indoor lighting and flatter the complexion, they lead to differences in your color perception. And then it is all too easy to choose a make-up shade that is too dark or apply too much blusher.

Compact make-up guide for a beautiful complexion

1. Speaking of complexion
2. Day cream
3. Primer
4. Foundation
5. Make-up routine

Speaking of complexion – beauty step #1

Of course, we also have some professional make-up advice for you when you’re styling yourself in front of your new bathroom mirror for the first time. Always stick to this order and take your time:

Day cream – Beauty step #2

First, apply your day cream as usual to cleansed facial skin, the neck and perhaps also the décolleté. Make sure you use the right sun protection factor, especially in summer. The day cream should be well absorbed before you continue. This may take a few minutes.

Primer – Beauty step #3

Next, use a primer to even out small irregularities and/or enlarged pores. The complexion will appear refined and the foundation will not form unsightly lumps later on.

Foundation – Beauty Step #4

Now you can apply your foundation or make-up. Feel free to use a sponge to ensure an even result. In the right light, you can quickly check whether you have blended all the transitions properly.

Make-up routine – Beauty step #5

Depending on what you want to apply now, you can use fixing powder, eyeliner, eyeshadow, mascara, blusher or lipstick.

Conclusion: Neutral white light for optimum conditions

Neutral white light integrated into a bathroom mirror creates the ideal conditions for professional make-up that doesn’t just look good indoors. Have fun trying it out!

Checklist: Buy a sofa you love!

Already in the store or online store? My quick sofa-buying checklist for you:

1st tip: Determine the function of the room

Before you start looking for a sofa, think about how the room will be used. Should the sofa be used for entertainment purposes, be a cozy retreat or include a TV or fireplace? The function of the room will influence the choice of sofa.

Determine space utilization:

• Define the purpose of the room (e.g. living room, guest room, study).
• Think about how often the sofa is used (daily, occasionally).

2nd tip: Measure the room

Carefully measure the room in which the sofa is to be placed. Pay attention to the room dimensions to ensure that the sofa fits in well without overcrowding the room or appearing too small.

Measure the room:

• Record the exact room dimensions (width, length, height).
• Check whether the sofa fits through doors, corridors and stairs.

3rd tip: Consider the style and aesthetics

Think about the desired style and aesthetics of the sofa. Should it be modern, classic, vintage or Scandinavian? Choose a design that suits your personal taste and the interior design.

Observe style and aesthetics:

• Consider the desired furnishing style (modern, classic, Scandinavian).
• Keep an eye on the color palette and design of the room.

4th tip: Pay attention to the quality

The quality of the sofa is crucial. Make sure it has a solid wooden frame, ideally made of kiln-dried hardwood. High-quality upholstery and hard-wearing covers are also important. A high-quality sofa offers comfort and durability.

Check quality:

• Look for a stable frame made of solid wood or plywood.
• Evaluate the quality of the upholstery and cover material.

5th tip: Think about the color and the cover

Choose a color and upholstery that suits your room and lifestyle. Consider the care requirements of the upholstery fabric, especially if there are pets or children in the household. Sofa trends range from timeless classics in gray to statement sofas.

Select color and cover:

• Consider cover materials such as leather, fabric or microfiber.
• Determine the color tone of the sofa based on the room colors and personal preferences.

6th tip: Test the seating comfort

Try out the sofa by sitting or lying down. Seating comfort is subjective, so it’s important to test the sofa before you buy to make sure it’s comfortable and meets your needs.

Test seating comfort

• Test sit to assess comfort and support.
• Check whether the seat depth and height are comfortable.

7th tip: Check the price-performance ratio

Compare the prices of different sofas and check the price-performance ratio. A more expensive sofa can be a long-term investment, but it should also offer the desired quality and style.

Check the price-performance ratio:

• Set the budget and look for options in this price range.
• Assess the value of the sofa in relation to the price.

8th tip: Compare different retailers

Look around at various dealers to see a wide selection of sofas.

Explore different dealers:

• Visit various furniture stores and online retailers.
• Compare brands, offers and availability.

9th tip: Delivery and installation – do it yourself?

Think about the delivery and assembly of the sofa. Make sure it will fit through doorways and hallways and that the retailer offers delivery and assembly services if needed. You can find plenty of assembly instructions, for example on YouTube.

Consider delivery and installation:

• Ensure that the sofa can be delivered to the room.
• Check availability of assembly and delivery services.

10th tip: Read reviews and ask for recommendations

Read reviews from other buyers and ask friends or family for their recommendations. The experiences of others can be helpful when choosing the perfect sofa.

Read reviews and get recommendations

• Research online reviews and experiences of other buyers.
• Ask friends, family or interior designers for recommendations.

With this detailed checklist, you can make sure you find the sofa that perfectly suits your room and your lifestyle. Good luck in your search for your dream sofa!

Elements of Feng Shui: Materials & Furniture in Harmony

Feng Shui is mainly about designing your living space in harmony to maintain your life energy and let it flow. The Chi – also written “Qi” – plays a central role. According to the ancient Chinese teaching of Feng Shui, which literally means “wind” and “water”, these two elements form the basis of the life energy that flows through everything: Chi.

In terms of your interior design, you can think of chi as a current, it can flow quickly or slowly depending on the furniture and shape. Ideally, the Chi flows in pleasant, moderately fast paths around your living areas. The five elements of Feng Shui are particularly important: wood, fire, earth, metal, water. Matching your furniture and accessories to these will have a positive effect on your chi.

Tip! Whether bedroom, living room or terrace: Guide – Furnishing rooms.

Wood: cork, bamboo, rattan and wicker furniture

The element wood is the symbol for life and growth. It stands for the colors green and light blue and can be implemented with wooden, cork, rattan, bamboo or wicker furniture. High and slender forms also stand for the element wood in Feng Shui.

Fire: candles & lamps in pointed shapes

In Feng Shui, fire stands for the shades red and orange and can be supported with candles, lamps or a fireplace. In addition, furniture and accessories made of leather or wool set the element beautifuly in scene. The element is found in pointed and angular shapes in furnishings.

Earth: ceramic, clay & stone elements

The earth embodies the center in Feng Shui. It is stable and protective and stands for groundedness, durability and reliability. This element can be implemented with yellow and brown tones, as well as flat shapes such as stone, ceramics and clay.

Metal: Deco in white, silver & gold

Metal represents prosperity and success and is associated with white, silver and gold tones. Furniture and accessories can have round and domed shapes, be shiny or matte. Objects such as crystals or glass allow the chi to flow well.

Water: Pictures & Accent Wall

The last element symbolizes luck and success in private as well as business life. Flowing, soft fabrics such as silk or even glass can be used here. Also, pictures with rivers or wetland plants can be brought in, as well as the colors black, purple or blue, for example, with a dark blue accent wall.

Feng Shui Colors of Harmony – White, Pastel & Co.

With the use of wall color, rooms can be divided and structured, but above all it strengthens the flow of energy and weakens negative vibrations at the same time. The colour in which a room must be designed depends on which of the five elements underlies the room in order to create a positive effect.

Living room: earthy tones & friendly colours

For the living room are most ideal white, pastel and earthy tones. These radiate cosiness. Highlights can be set off with green or lilac decorative objects. Seasons also play an important role: in winter, replace the spring colours with red or purple tones.

Lamps, windows & light: light sources for a harmonious soul

Sufficient light and brightness are an extremely important aspect of Feng Shui. Different sources of light are crucial in this respect. Of course, the most important is sufficient daylight, which comes through the windows into the apartment. Curtains and blinds should be as translucent as possible, where not enough light arrives, the Chi flow can wither. Therefore, illuminate dark, inanimate corners with different light sources, even in windowless rooms such as the hallway, a single ceiling lamp should not be the only source of light.

The type of light should also be taken into account: in the kitchen and study, somewhat brighter light is suitable, in the living room and bedroom rather a softer glow.

Living room to relax in: Sofa, coffee table & co.

Your living room is the centre of communal life. This is where family, friends and acquaintances come together, a meeting place, the most public room in the house. But also to relax, watch TV or read, you sit down in the “good room”. Accordingly, the Chi should flow well and harmoniously in this very room. We tell you how to do that.

Arrangement of the living room according to Feng Shui

To ensure that the chi is retained and does not escape again immediately, the living room door should not be directly opposite a window. If this is the case, plants on the window front protect against negative influences from the outside and from the chi escaping too quickly. If possible, place seating against the wall and avoid the line between the door and the window. The middle of the living room ideally remains free – so the Chi can spread undisturbed and strengthen the inhabitants.

Furniture in curved lines – how the chi flows: arrangement & tips

Avoid clean lines or sharp-edged furniture: harmony is created with a U-shaped sofa. This triggers a sense of well-being in your guests, as everyone can sit opposite each other. Organic, curved shapes create the perfect flow of chi. Instead of a rectangular coffee table, an oval or one in a kidney shape is better. The floor should be left wide open, yet a cute round rug may be placed under the sofa or coffee table – as long as the center of the room remains clear. High, massive cupboards are a no-go: they look heavy and destroy harmony.

Bedroom: ideas and selection according to Feng Shui

The bedroom is undoubtedly the most important room in the whole house. It is the ultimate retreat, where relaxation and recreation should meet a well-cared-for sleep. Create your own oasis so that the right energies flow in your bedroom. Love happiness can also be greatly influenced by the chi in the bedroom. A couple is more likely to find mutual support and success in their relationship when the chi flows harmoniously.

Location of the bedroom: view into the garden

In Feng Shui, the location of the rooms is also assigned a special meaning. The bedroom is best located in the back of the house. Facing the garden, away from negative energy currents such as roads, noisy cars, dirt and noise. Attention should also be paid to the location of the bedroom within the house. It should never be above a garage or storage room and should not be in close proximity (i.e. next to, above, opposite or below) the kitchen or toilet.

Bed: alignment and the best place for restful sleep

The bed is the central element of your bedroom. Place it against a stable wall, preferably without windows or doors. You should be able to see doors and windows from your bed, but be careful not to lie in a direct line to the bedroom door – otherwise the chi will flow towards you unchecked. Also, do not sleep directly between the window and the door, as this will have the same effect: you will be in the chi flow.

Bedroom furnishings: Bed, wardrobes & mirror in Feng Shui

The best option is a bed with a large headboard, the bed itself should not have a metal frame and should be made mostly of natural wood. Likewise, cabinets and chests of drawers should be made of natural materials in round shapes. These should be closed as much as possible to create a more uncluttered atmosphere. Large, heavy shelves, pictures or lamps are a no-go, they create too much restlessness and distraction during sleep. If there is the possibility of a dressing room, move the wardrobes completely out of the bedroom.

Mirrors in the bedroom should be avoided – the reflection generates strong activity and disturbs sleep. If the mirror is indispensable, it should in no case be in the line of sight of the bed, otherwise the consumed energy will be returned directly to you.

Decoration according to Feng Shui – tips like cushions, lamps & Co.

Similar to minimalism, Feng Shui is based on a clear, orderly and tidy living area. Less is more here, because superfluous clutter and unnecessary accessories restrict the flow of chi considerably – in the worst case they can even block it. However, this does not mean that decorations of any kind are forbidden. Carefully selected, they even have a positive influence on the Chi and give you positive energy.

Decorative articles made of wood, metal & porcelain

Small decorative items are the perfect tools to keep your chi flowing optimally and maximize your sense of well-being. Accessories made of wood, metal or porcelain are very suitable for the living room. In general, natural-looking materials and light, soft colours help. Here are the top tips with which decorative items you can increase your Chi:

• Natural materials such as fresh flowers, leaves or stones
• A pretty decorative bowl with fresh water and flowers
• A wind chime made of shells, driftwood or glass
• Cosy textiles like cushions, plaids or carpets
• Mirrors: welcome in the living room, unlike in the bedroom – they add dimension to the room.

In the bathroom help the flow of energy:

• Scented candles and tea lights
• Sweet room fresheners
• Fluffy bath mats or towels

Lamps & lights: small islands of light with table lamps & candles

Rooms that are equipped with different light sources appear more harmonious. Lamps and smaller luminaires give dark and inanimate corners an extra dose of chi. Create a homely atmosphere with individual islands of light. These distribute the chi throughout the room and allow it to flow better. With chic floor lamps and table lamps, as well as candles, you can create a pleasant atmosphere in the living room and bring it to life. Again, look for round and wavy shapes of the lamps and don’t try anything too angular or bulky.

Garden: flowers, plants & vegetation for positive chi

Feng Shui is mainly about harmonization and the optimal flow of positive energy. Various plants and especially the garden play an important role. Living in harmony with nature is the motto. House and garden are harmoniously integrated into the environment.

Houseplants: Upgrading with bamboo plants and crystal vases

Inside the house, houseplants and fresh flowers are indispensable for effective Feng Shui decoration. With them, dead corners or bare corners can be revived and refreshed, so that the life energy also finds a place here. Bamboo plants or cut flowers can be very well integrated into the Feng Shui decoration. Modern crystal vases or beautiful vases made of porcelain are suitable here.

Our top 3 houseplants:

• Bamboo palm – for a tropical atmosphere
• Rubber tree – survives with little light in darker corners
• Dragon tree – easy to care for and visually appealing

Feng Shui garden: design & arrangement – fountain or sculpture

Create an inviting atmosphere in your garden, for example with flowering perennials or a jasmine plant. Curved paths and a pond or fountain are a must-have in your Feng Shui garden. Water represents the flow of life and is one of the strongest energies. The heart point, i.e. the centre of the garden, can be deliberately emphasised, for example with a fireplace or a sculpture. For further planting, chrysanthemums or hydrangeas, for example, are welcome, otherwise evergreen plants provide year-round color even in cold seasons.

Natural beauty: the advantages of a natural wood table

Natural wood is often called solid wood or solid wood. It is processed into furniture in its natural form, such as tables, without being chemically treated or altered. Natural wood comes directly from trees and contains no artificial or synthetic materials. Compared to engineered wood or veneer products, natural wood is usually more robust and durable.

Properties of natural wood: what makes it so cozy?

Natural wood has a natural beauty and texture that can vary from tree to tree. Each tree has a unique pattern of growth rings, knotholes and other features that give the wood character. There are different types of natural wood, some types are more suitable for kitchens, others for living spaces. Natural wood is often used for furniture, flooring, panels and other wood products.

The typical wood species:

• Oak wood
• Pine wood
• Mahogany
• Teak
• Maple wood

Advantages of natural wood tables

Natural wood tables offer many benefits, whether health, style or sustainability. A natural wood table can better withstand impact, pressure and daily use. In terms of sturdiness, natural wood often outperforms engineered wood and synthetic materials, so a natural wood table can withstand daily wear and tear. In addition, natural wood tables adapt to different styles and designs and fit harmoniously into different room designs. Another plus point is their positive influence on indoor air quality, as natural wood regulates moisture and thus contributes to a healthy indoor climate. Unlike synthetic materials, natural wood tables do not contain chemical additives or evaporation.

Here again are our top three benefits at a glance:

• Durability and robustness
• Adaptability to room styles
• Better indoor air quality

Find the perfect natural wood table for your home

Your personal taste plays the most important role when choosing a new table made of natural wood. Choose a piece of furniture that you like and that reflects your personality and style. If you like natural wood and appreciate the natural beauty of the material, it is probably a good choice for your apartment. Of course, we can’t help you decide if and which natural wood table will suit your home. However, we hope to make the decision easier for you with these exciting tips!

Rustic to modern: Natural wood table for any interior style

Natural wood furniture goes well with a variety of interior styles, from rustic and traditional to modern and Scandinavian. If your interior style emphasizes natural elements and a warm, organic aesthetic, natural wood furniture can be a great choice.

Harmony of wood colors: Natural wood color palette

Natural wood has a natural color palette that ranges from light to dark tones. Consider whether the color of the wood matches the colors of the floors, walls and other furniture in the room, or whether it should create an interesting contrast. The different types of wood and their colors can blend together and create an overall natural look.

Impressive accents: Importance of the size of the room

Another factor to consider is the size of the room you’re decorating. In smaller rooms, a natural wood table can create a warm and cozy feel, while in larger spaces, larger pieces of wood furniture can serve as impressive statement pieces.

Natural wood for your interior style

It is important to note that wood is versatile and can be used in other interior styles. The choice of wood, wood color, and wood finish can influence the style you want. Experiment with different combinations to find the perfect look for your space. Wood is a versatile material that goes well with a variety of interior design styles. Here are some interior design styles that showcase wood particularly well:

We look at the following styles:

1. Rustic
2. Skandi
3. Modern

Rustic style: wood as the centerpiece

Wood is a main feature of the rustic style. Natural wood furniture, especially with rough grain and natural surface, gives the room a warm and cozy atmosphere. Rustic elements such as antique wooden beams, wooden paneling or wooden plank floors complement the rustic charm.

Scandinavian style: focus on light colors and natural materials

Scandinavian interior style is characterized by light colors, simple shapes and natural materials. Dining tables, shelves and sideboards made of natural wood are particularly suitable here. Light woods like birch or ash go well with the Scandinavian style and give the room an airy and natural atmosphere, with matching chairs.

Modern style: aesthetics meets natural elements

Natural wood can also be used in modern interior styles to convey warmth and naturalness. Combine wooden furniture with clean lines and minimalist designs to create a modern look. Darker woods like walnut or oak can give an elegant and contemporary look.

The modern living room

A modern living room is characterized by clean lines, minimalist design and refined aesthetics. It is characterized by a successful combination of form and function and exudes a contemporary atmosphere. In a modern living room, you’ll often find pieces of furniture with sleek proportions, smooth surfaces and pared-down ornamentation. The color palette is often dominated by neutral tones that convey calm and elegance. Lighting plays an important role and is carefully selected to create a pleasant atmosphere. Technology is cleverly integrated to enhance comfort and entertainment in the living room.

Tips for furnishing, decoration and co.

A modern living room is a harmonious space that combines style, functionality and contemporary elements to create an appealing environment. How to do this, we now take a closer look.

Clean lines and minimalist design

As mentioned above, a modern living room is characterized by clean lines and minimalist design. In terms of furniture pieces, this means opting for simple shapes and straight lines rather than ornate or overly decorated designs. Choose couches, chairs and tables with clean contours and smooth surfaces. Avoid unnecessary details and ornamentation for an uncluttered and contemporary look. Less is often more, so be careful not to place too many pieces of furniture in the room and not to clutter the space.

For a modern living room applies: less is more

The clean lines and minimalist design allow the furniture pieces to unfold their effect and give the room a modern and timeless flair.

Classic, warm tones and colorful color accents

The color palette plays a crucial role in decorating a modern living room. A popular choice is a neutral base color such as gray, white, beige or taupe. These tones create a calm and timeless atmosphere and serve as a basis for the rest of the interior design. They make the living room look open and spacious.

These colors are particularly suitable:

• White
• Beige
• Gray
• Taupe

To make the color scheme more interesting and give the room personality, you can use bold color accents. Choose a single accent color like red, blue or yellow and use it sparingly in the form of pillows, curtains, rugs or decorative items. These accents provide a lively contrast to the neutral colors and create a fresh and dynamic look.

Muted tones and colorful accents create a modern look.

Wall mural for the living room: ideas

An accent wall can instantly add character and style to your living room. Use wallpaper, wall paints or wall coverings to highlight a wall and create interesting visual effects. Another option is to use a photo wallpaper. A photo wallpaper for the living room in 3D offers a versatile way to decorate the room with stunning images, landscapes or abstract designs. You can create an eye-catcher and give the room an individual touch.

The advantage of photo wallpapers is their flexibility. They can cover a whole wall or emphasize only a certain area, such as the area around the TV or the wall shelf. Photo wallpapers are relatively easy to apply and offer an instant change to the room. Choose a living room photo wallpaper that fits your personal style and the desired atmosphere of the room.

From smart TV to intelligent security system

A modern living room should be technologically up to date. A central element is a high-quality smart TV that offers an impressive visual experience. A smart sound system is also part of the setup of any modern living room. Incorporate speakers that can connect wirelessly to your TV or other devices to create room-filling sound. You can also invest in smart assistants like Amazon Echo or Google Home to control lighting, music, or other devices by voice command for an even more convenient living room experience.

Tip: Cleverly hide cables and electronic devices to ensure a tidy appearance

In addition to entertainment technology, you can also think about integrating smart home technologies. With smart thermostats, lighting systems and security solutions, you can control and monitor your living room and the entire living area in an innovative way.

• Smart TV
• Intelligent sound system
• Intelligent assistance
• Intelligent thermostats
• Lighting systems
• Security Solutions

Efficient storage systems for multifunctionality

Multifunctionality is a crucial feature of a modern living room. In today’s world, where living spaces are often limited, it is important to make the best use of the available space and meet different needs. By choosing pieces of furniture that can serve multiple functions, you create a flexible and adaptable living room. For example, an extendable dining table is a great way to use the space for social evenings with friends or family dinners. During the day, however, it can be kept in a more compact form to create more space for other activities. A sofa with a sleep function provides an extra place for guests to sleep without the need for an additional guest room.

When choosing multifunctional furniture, also think about the design and aesthetics. Make sure that the pieces of furniture fit well with the interior style of the living room and reflect the modern style. The combination of functionality and aesthetic design will allow you to create a living room that is not only practical, but also stylish.

Conclusion: In the twinkling of an eye to the modern living room

A modern living room provides a contemporary and appealing environment where you can relax, entertain and spend time with family and friends. It is a place that suits your lifestyle and needs while providing an aesthetic experience. Through proper design and selection of furniture, colors and technology, you can create a living room that is timeless yet embodies the spirit of modernity. Enjoy the beauty and comfort of a modern living room and make it a place you love to call home.

Michael Kors New York Apartment

His New York apartment is in Manhattan, more precisely in Greenwich Village, south of Center Park. Together with his husband Lance LePere, he moves into the 500-square-meter penthouse, which is located on a traditional New York skyscraper. He furnished it together with his husband and an interior designer with whom he had already worked in his previous houses and apartments. The result a modern, minimalist, but still a statement full apartment.

Michael Kors Penthouse: Facts & Dates

• Location: Greenwich Village, New York
• Purchase price: 15 – 18.5 million euros
  Purchase price in dollars: $17 – 21 million
  Purchase price in pounds: 13.5 – 15.5 million pounds
• Total area: 500 sqm
  Total area in feet: 5,400 square feet
• Price per square meter: 33,500 euros
  Price per square feet: $3,520 / 2,685 pounds
• Bedrooms: 3; Bathrooms: 3,5

Greenwich Village, NY: Map

Michael Kors: New York Penthouse Tour

In this episode of Open Door, iconic fashion designer Michael Kors takes Architectural Digest on a tour of the Greenwich Village apartment he co-owns with husband Lance LePere. The NYC apartment has been fully customized, right down to the hidden sliding doors that allow it to transform from an open, loft-like space to a completely closed-off apartment. What’s more, it’s surrounded by a lush terrace with unobstructed views south to the World Trade Center, west to the Hudson River, and beyond in all directions.

Luxury Apartment in Downtown, New York

The penthouse is the top floor of the building and is located on the roof of the entire house with the approximately 500 square meters. For Michael Kors taste comes only extra selected things in his four walls. Whether it is a table made of special wood, a handmade vase or a woven basket. His motto, minimalistsich with different highlights fit the room and their effect. Above all, it is noticeable that in the design of the apartment a lot of attention was paid to different materials and photography. All hallways are decorated with numerous pictures that have emotional, as well as material value.

The untouched kitchen

After passing through a small entrance area, you enter the kitchen through a small narrow hallway. The kitchen is overall very simple and clean. The brown-beige kitchen fronts create a pleasant and harmonious color scheme with the white matte countertops. The upper cabinets have light strips mounted from below, which cast soft pleasant light on the countertops, as well as the back wall. The sink and faucet is in a light metal and blends appropriately with the kitchen’s coffee maker. The eye-catchers in this case are a large flowering orchid in a glass vase and a black handmade bowl standing next to it. For a suitably simple and minimalist lighting were attached sporadically short narrow black fluorescent tubes.

Living area: a room full of possibilities

The open dining and living area does not exclude especially larger celebrations. For parties, events and celebrations of any kind here is enough space for everyone. The dining table is made of white birch wood and is surrounded by 6 designer chairs, made of a contrasting brown orange tone. The highlight here, is a large white crystal in the center of the table. Divided by a narrow long side table made of an unfinished only cut piece of wood, which stands behind the sofa, is the living room.

The living room has two dark gray sofas facing each other with cushions in the same shade and fabric. With a low wooden table, again unfinished, it is used as a coffee table. Decorated with a large concrete and stone vase and branches with small yellow white flowers, the living area is much worked with wood and its structure. Two turquoise armchairs are also located to the left of the table. A small oil-powered carmine also provides romantic mood for the couple from time to time. Behind the carmine, which is embedded in the wall, there is also another small sofa, as well as a shelf with numerous books and magazines on photography, crime and fashion.

Dream: bedroom with walk-in closet

The bedroom is also located, like the study, at one corner of the building. Matching the large windows, there is a reading chair and a small table here. However, the large spacious bed occupies most of the space here. Decorated with large cozy pillows and blankets, the slightly higher bed. Opposite the bed is a huge flat-screen TV. To come to rest, the couple, together with the interior designer, decided not to place more furniture or decorations in the bedroom.

However, following the bedroom is another large walk-in closet. With numerous mirrors, lights and drawers, there is room here for two clothes-loving people. There is room for up to several hundred pieces of clothing, hats, bags, shoes and sunglasses.

Place full of relaxation: bathroom

The bathroom always plays an important role. Here you should come to rest, relax and simply feel good. Thanks to the huge bathtub and large shower, where there is room for up to two people, you can also spend a romantic evening or two. Of course, in clean and clean colors, the bathroom is covered with large matte white tiles and a gray concrete-like material. With the morning and night view from the bathroom window, from which you can look out even sitting in the bathtub, it is a dream apartment.

Extras of the apartment

In a property like this, of course, nothing should be standard. Accordingly, the premises must also make room for one or two pompous extras. Whether it’s a study, a gym or a huge terrace with a view of the Manhattan skyline.

Study: Where new ideas are born

The study is located next to the kitchen. At the corner of the building are two floor-to-ceiling windows that let in a lot of natural daylight. Thanks to the beautiful view, a narrow long desk was placed here, where Michael and his husband get inspiration and motivation to work. In the center of the room is a table with a round black wooden top supported by a black marble cone. To seat up to 4 people, symmetrically arranged here are four designer chairs made of wood and black leather.

A large, round lamp folded from paper hangs from the ceiling in the middle of the table and provides a soft and pleasant light even in the evening hours. On the left wall of the office can be stored in a brown and white wooden cabinet everything you need. The shelf is decorated with two wooden vases of different sizes, which are located on the right side. Above the cabinet there is also a TV, which also provides one or the other distraction while working. From here you also have the possibility to enter the 75 square meters roof terrace.

Fitness room: stay fit at home

In a more than 15 million euro expensive penthouse, of course, the own gym can not be missing. Thanks to a spare room, Michael Kors and his husband have brought their own little gym home. Even though the two have many differences, they agree on topics like sports, health and appearance. With togetherness and such a great view of the rooftops of New York, you are still motivated to do sports no matter what time of day it is.

Terrace for a piece of nature

The terrace includes everything an entrepreneur and designer needs in a New York penthouse. A BBQ grill, a lounge corner, and a dining table for up to 10 people. That and another huge selection of different plants, spices and flowers makes Michael feel like he’s in the country, or at least in a park. Even though construction noise and city sounds can be heard here at almost any time, you get used to the sounds very quickly and a view of the World Trade Center and many other centrally located buildings soon makes up for it.

New York: What you need to know

The United States is best known for its high crime rate. Whether it’s drug use, assaults or fights. But the states also have many different climates and therefore have a wide variety of activity programs. Camping in national parks, going to the movies or the typical American house parties make up for a lot of the negative stuff though. For more information on recreational activities and a ranking of the best rated cities in the world, see below.

New York population growth

As one of the larger cities in the world, the New York City government documents the population since 1750. After industrialization, the first high-rise buildings were also built in New York, which attracted mainly the younger people to the city. Due to the possibility to let more people live on the same area, the population increased continuously.

• 1750: 22,000 inhabitants
• 1800: 60.500 inhabitants
• 1850: 515,500 inhabitants
• 1880: 1.2 million inhabitants
• 1920: 5.6 million inhabitants
• 2000: 8 million inhabitants
• 2020: 8.5 million inhabitants

You can find more statistics at Statista

USA: The ten largest cities

New York, the city that never sleeps. As the metropolis of the USA, it is the largest city in the United States, closely followed by second, third and fourth place Los Angeles, Chicago and Houston. Above all, New York’s infrastructure has been visibly affected by industrialization. During industrialization, the number of inhabitants and the transport connections increased steadily. Not only the famous New York subway was added, but also numerous high-rise buildings.

1. New York with 8.4 million inhabitants
2. Los Angeles with 4 million inhabitants
3. Chicago with 2.71 million inhabitants

You can find more statistics at Statista

Worldwide cities ranking with leisure activities rating

After a worldwide survey on the topic of leisure activities, the statistics shown below were made. The respondents rated it good or very good. Although it is hard to believe, the first place is the introverted Russian capital Moscow. It is followed by the German capital Berlin. Third place goes to New York, closely followed by Guangzhou and Mumbai.

1. Moscow: 52%
2. Berlin: 51%
3. New York: 50%
4. Guangzhou: 48%
5. Mumbai: 47%

Your Job: Living, Buying and Luxury Living

The themes in your new resort are extremely diverse! On the one hand, it’s about casual topics, like different interior design styles or even the homes of celebrities. On the other hand, it’s about our readers learning a lot more with us, such as everything important for their first condo.

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Start, salary and working hours

The most important facts about starting, salary and working hours:

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• Working Hours: Full time / Part time
• No weekends!
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Application: Editorial full-time / part-time

Send us your resume + short cover letter to:

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Your topics and tasks

1. Furnishing styles: Luxury Living
2. How Stars Live: House Tour
3. Real estate as an investment: Financial freedom
4. Real estate trends: Building and living in the future

Furnishing styles: Luxury Living

Furnishing styles – live in the country style, with retro look or Scandinavian style. Every home is individual. We want to give our readers inspiration above all, but also tips for new interior design trends. To this end, we work on ideas for living rooms, bedrooms, children’s rooms, kitchens, bathrooms and our own gardens through our own research and in collaboration with PR agencies and brands.

How Stars Live: House Tour

This is how stars live – many celebrities and influencers have millions of fans and of course they want to know what their stars’ homes are like. We take a look at luxurious villas in Beverly Hills (Los Angeles), but also at chic loft apartments in Berlin Mitte. Architecture, interior design and luxury furniture brands.

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Real estate as an investment: Financial freedom

Real estate as an investment – some people even go one step further and buy real estate as an investment. That means they buy a property and then rent it out. That is very clever! Because this way you take a lot of tax advantages. In addition, your tenant pays off your first property.

Real estate trends: Building and living in the future

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Five measures for a cozy terrace

To make your own terrace cozy and stylish, you need only a few well thought-out furnishings and matching accessories. The basis for a cozy terrace is stylish lounge and garden furniture, which is enhanced by high-quality outdoor textiles. Whether boho style, wood look or stylish lounge in metal look – beautiful is what pleases.
What should also not be missing in any case is a suitable sunshade and, if necessary, a privacy screen, which can be made particularly natural, for example, by plants. Otherwise, plants and flowers as well as light sources in the form of candles, fire bowls and fairy lights are also the best way to make the terrace cozy and according to your own taste. So you are guaranteed to feel comfortable, whether with friends, family or just relaxed for yourself.

Lounge and garden furniture: stylish and cozy

The basis for your outdoor living room is beautiful lounge or garden furniture. It is a question of personal taste whether furniture in wood look, rattan, polyrattan or metal is the best choice for you. In addition, it makes a big difference for which occasions you want to use the furniture mainly. Hammocks, deck chairs and garden loungers are the right choice if you mainly want to relax on the terrace. Whereas garden benches and a large table are ideal for social gatherings. A lounge corner with a large side table is a good compromise and can be used both for relaxing and spending time with family and friends.

Ideal for family, friends & to relax is a lounge corner

Those who like it more extravagant and are looking for something very special, can put a luxurious garden bed, a cozy hanging chair or an idyllic beach chair on the terrace. Last but not least, for the selection of suitable furniture, the available space and, of course, the budget plays a major role.

Interior design tips summarized:

• For relaxation: hammocks and deckchairs
• For social evenings: Garden bench and large table
• For the extravagant: Garden bed, hanging chair & beach chair

Ideal for both balcony, garden, and terrace – the hammock:

High quality outdoor textiles: weatherproof seat covers and fluffy blankets

Once the furniture is chosen, it’s time to decorate the terrace. Here, high-quality outdoor textiles play a major role. On the one hand, they can be a real eye-catcher, and on the other hand, of course, they should be particularly cozy and practical. Fluffy blankets and soft cushions, for example, are a must for relaxing evenings under the open sky.

Blanket, cushion & seat pads are cozy & practical

In addition, outdoor textiles such as seat covers, blankets and cushions should fit well into the overall picture and match the style of the selected furniture. Bohemian-style textiles, for example, go very well with wood and natural materials, while metal garden furniture in combination with simple colors like gray or beige can look very classy. In addition, it is important that the outdoor upholstery is weatherproof and can withstand the occasional rain shower.

• For wood & natural materials: bohemian style textiles
• Metal garden furniture: cool colors, such as beige and gray

Suitable sun protection: awning, sun sail and co.

Every patio furnishing includes a suitable sunshade. If the terrace is large or the lounge area is in the middle of the garden, a large parasol or a sun sail may be the right choice, while a terrace that is directly adjacent to the house can be well protected from the sun with an awning. While awnings can be expensive, they last all the longer for it. You can benefit from a high-quality awning for decades.

Tip: Invest in awning, sun sail & parasol

But it is also worth paying attention to good quality parasols and sun sails. Free-arm umbrellas, for example, offer maximum flexibility, as they can be swiveled into the right position and adjusted in inclination. In addition, the material plays an important role. The fabric should keep out sunlight, be light-resistant and withstand rain.

Lush planting: from flower beds to screens

To really feel at home on the terrace, plants and flowers should not be missing. Especially if there is no garden adjacent to the terrace, a little greenery works wonders. You can choose from typical terrace plants such as hibiscus, bamboo or angel’s trumpet, as well as herbs, tomato plants and other vegetables.

In addition, plants can be a good natural privacy screen. Especially bamboo, holly and cypress are very popular here. If you have a larger garden, you can plant your own tree or create a flower bed full of roses, lilacs and hydrangeas.

The most popular plants for garden & terrace:

• Hibiscus
• Bamboo
• Angel Trumpet
• Herbs
• Vegetable plants
• Flowerbed

On smaller terraces, it can be a good idea to plant on top of each other or prefer hanging and climbing plants such as climbing roses or climbing hydrangeas. In addition, the color and smell of flowers make a lot, because what could be better than a floral scent of jasmine with your morning coffee.

Not only the planting affects the atmosphere of the terrace, but also the lighting:

Romantic lighting: rustic fire bowl or sustainable solar lamps

In addition to the plants, the lighting is important for the feel-good factor. Especially when you sit in the garden for a long time in the evening and enjoy the pleasant cool evening air, the patio lighting makes a lot of difference. For those who want it romantic, candles, lamps and fairy lights should not be missing in any case. Particularly beautiful and environmentally friendly are solar-powered light chains and lights, which charge during the day and give off their light until late at night.
If you prefer something more rustic, you can use a fire bowl or a fire basket. These are also available in a beautiful, elegant design and some can even be converted into a grill.

Fire basket, fairy lights & Co. provides romance

Conclusion : How to turn your terrace into an outdoor living room

With a few tips and tricks, your terrace can easily be transformed into a beautiful and cozy outdoor living room, which, especially in summer, can replace the living room at home and be at least as comfortable and stylish. Whether with friends, family or for yourself, you can enjoy the sun during the day and spend a nice time and relax until the evening hours.

Our five tips summarized:

1. When choosing furniture, pay attention to coziness and function
2. Blanket, cushion and seat cover should be waterproof
3. Invest in sufficient sun protection
4. Plants and flowers provide greenery
5. The right feel-good factor can be achieved with lighting

But before you start choosing the right furniture, outdoor textiles, lighting, plants and flowers for you, you should think about what you mainly want to use your terrace for and what style suits you. Whether it’s a wooden set with a large table and long benches for evening dinners with the whole family or a cozy hammock to enjoy a book or two – there are no limits to your imagination. If you have enough space, individual elements and styles can be wonderfully combined.