Sleeper Sofas So Stylish Your Guests Won't Want to Leave

SLEEPERS THAT SIMPLY TOO STYLISH & COMFORTIBLE

" My arm for a pillow,

  I really like myself

  under the hazy moon. "

       ~ YosaBuson

Long gone are the days of old-fashioned sleeper sofas that doubled as torture devices for family or friends brave enough to sleep over. When it was time for bed, you would sheepishly gather fresh bedding for your guests, then unpack the unwieldy, cumbersome eyesore and make the bed. You'd send your friends to bed with an apology, hoping they would be able to rest amid the myriad lumps and potentially hazardous metal springs.       

These days, sofa sleepers are so modern and stylish that they bear almost no resemblance to the plaid tweed monstrosities of old. They're so different they really ought to be called something else entirely: Stealthy Sleepers, perhaps, or Designated Nap Zones? Regardless the term you choose, be careful who you invite over because they may not ever want to leave.

VOGUE SLEEPER SOFA BY HAIKU DESIGNS

THE VOGUE CONVERTIBLE

The Vogue is a completely convertible set of sofa and lounge chair that can be rearranged to suit its environment. The bed itself is ideal for smaller rooms, or choose several pieces to design the perfect conversation pit in an unstructured loft space. The Vogue has an undeniable mid century modern appeal, and is cleverly customizable. Choose brass or steel legs for an airy, art gallery look; or select wooden legs in two finishes for a funky, retro look. Make this piece your own by choosing from five delectable upholstery choices: sleek fabrics in Soft Indigo Blue, Light Gray, and Natural; or Vintage Velvet in Blue or Mauve.

This stunning piece has several positions: upright in the traditional sofa configuration, completely flat for a cozy night's rest, or the angled lounge position for relaxing with friends or binge watching your favorite shows. The unique split backrest allows you to leave one side up, while folding the other side flat. It boasts a seven inch cushion with an additional pillow top layer, for the ultimate in sleeper sofa comfort.

THE YORK SLEEPER SOFABED

THE YORK SOFA BED

And now for something completely different: the York Sofabed, shown here in luxurious chocolate colored, vegan-friendly leatherette. The York combines the best elements of traditional and contemporary, simply radiating cool – it's the 007 of convertible bedding options. You definitely won't want to relegate this sofa to the guest room: it's a stunning conversation piece.

Not only can you choose from three very different looking finishes (Vintage Velvet Blue, Vintage Velvet Mauve, and Brown Leatherette), you can even choose from three different types of legs (Brass legs, Retro Legs, and the highly unusual Dark Wood Styletto shown in the photo above.) Be creative! Which combination of upholstery and support legs best represents your personal sense of style?

THE ELEMENT SOFABED

THE ELEMENT SOFABEDThis wonderful sleeper sofa is the perfect example of minimalist design. In the Element Sofabed, cool design meets cool function. Its sleek silhouette lends itself perfectly to your creative whims when creating the perfect piece for your home. Choose from a wide variety of luxurious fabrics: natural earth tones in Gray or Natural; rich ultra-modern Soft Mustard Flower; Vintage Velvet in Blue or Mauve...or express your individuality with our uber-retro Wild Flower Tropical pattern.

As comfortable as it is beautiful, the Element transforms from the traditional upright configuration to a gently angled lounger or a completely flat sleeper. Its generous 7 inch cushioned sleep surface is covered with a luxe pillowtop for the ultimate in comfort.

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PLAYING WITH COLOR IN MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN

"  In the twilight rain
    these brilliant-hued hibiscus -
    A lovely sunset "

                           ~ Bashō

Modern design in 2017 is anything but tepid. Everywhere you look, designers are using lush, vivid jewel tones for everything from accent pillows to accent walls. A logical extension of the current emphasis on natural materials in home décor, jewel tones add a pop of color that brings to mind the glory of a sunset or the subtle glint of a precious gem. And the perfect counterpart to dramatic colors is the elegant, understated note of minimalist furniture.   

When wielded with restraint, the season's new “it” colors – deep emerald tones, rich ruby reds, passionate purples, and sumptuous golds – create the perfect backdrop for modern décor. It's quick and easy to change the color of an accent wall or buy new pillows or throws, and high-quality furniture with clean, timeless lines will always blend seamlessly with a new color scheme. Investing in gorgeous, heirloom pieces is always a good strategy. Change the colors your home every season, or whenever the urge strikes, without having to replace your main focal pieces. 

Since 1963, the design bible for fashion designers, graphic artists, and interior designers has been the Pantone color matching system – an enormous book of color swatches. The books change constantly, adding colors as they cycle into vogue and removing colors from the spotlight when they begin to appear dated or overused. If you're looking for fun new colors to try, their online resource (pantone.com) is a great place to start! Pantone describes their fashion color choices for Spring 2017 as a “mixture of vitality, relaxation, and the great outdoors.” 

THE OBVIOUS PLACE TO PLAY AROUND WITH LUXURIANT COLOR IS THE LIVING ROOM.

One group of furniture that would lend itself perfectly to your Spring project is our Elan Sleek Excess Sleeper Sofa. This masterpiece of understated elegance commands enough visual weight in the room to offset any color choice you want to try. It is available in four absolutely gorge colors, any of which would be fun to play off as a neutral against a jewel tone background: Begum Dark Brown (a fun, slightly nubby texture), Mixed Dance Natural, Classic Grey, Vintage Velvet Blue and Vintage Velvet Mauve. We also offer alternative versions of this very desirable sleeper sofa: the Elan Deluxe Excess and the Elan Deluxe Quilted.

Another great place to experiment with color is the dining room. Even if you prefer the simplicity of relaxing neutrals in your main living spaces and bedroom, the dining area is a place to entertain friends and family and bold, bright colors do a great job of sparking conversation and energizing a room. 

ELOQUENT DESIGN WITHOUT SACRIFICING COMFORT. 

One example of a dining set that would work perfectly in this context is our Curzon Dining Room Collection. A masterpiece of sculptured design, the under edges of this gorgeous table are sculpted into unique angles and carved with a solid wood design in two chic colors: Cathedral Ebony and Teak. Cathedral Ebony creates a darker, dramatic flair that would complement perfectly a lighter, more vivid wall color. The natural Teak is a lighter, softer shade of wood that brings to mind the timeless appeal of mid-century pieces and would complement any color, especially deeper, richer tones. This amazing table spans 84 inches in length, providing comfortable seating for eight. The support stand is a work of art in its own right: a cleverly crafted, chrome wire frame sculpture that is as sturdy as it is lovely.

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FINDING PEACE THROUGH MINDFULNESS MEDITATION

"Body, air, and mind
    the gust of a breeze, like breath 
    Mindfulness the prize" 

Mindfulness techniques have been around for a very long time. Buddhist monks first developed the practice about 2500 years ago, as a tool to attain enlightenment and inner harmony. Early mindfulness endeavors were designed to further spiritual and intellectual development and unlock human potential. 

Meditation is not complicated, but the skills needed to achieve a quiet mind require many hours of practice to master. There are a number of basic techniques, and if you find that mindfulness works for you, you may wish to consider taking classes at a yoga studio or meditation center. For now, focus on learning one method. Begin by meditating for 10-15 minutes every day, increasing to 30 minutes as you become more comfortable with the technique. Eventually, you may wish to meditate for an hour a day.  

THE SPIRITUAL TRINITY OF MEDITATION

There are three main elements of this simple approach to mindfulness: body, breath, and thought. To center the body, set up a meditation space that will be conducive to concentration. Choose one corner of a room where you can sit quietly without being interrupted. Meditation mats are a perfect way to designate a specific area as your mindfulness space. You can also light candles, if you like, to be reminded of life's impermanence. Or you can decorate your space with photos and mementos reminding you of what is most important to you. Turn off your phone, and face away from distractions like TV screens or computer desks.  Although if you need to balance the harmony of your zen space take a look at some of our meditation furniture  to help you begin your practice.

Begin by sitting comfortably. A meditation cushion is ideal for mindfulness practice. These are designed for sitting on, or for placing in the small of your back. The Zafu cushion is specifically constructed to help position your body into proper alignment. Rest your hands on your legs, with the palms facing upward ready to receive energy (you can also face your palms downward, if you need to feel more grounded.)

Allow your eyes to rest where they will, but don't think about the objects in front of you. Begin to focus on the second aspect of meditation, breath. Breathe slowly and deeply, anyway that comes naturally to you. Focus on the journey of your breath: how the air enters your lungs, travels through your body, and is released. Don't try to control your breathing, just try to relax.

As you focus on breathing, you will notice that thoughts pop unbidden into your mind. You may have worrying or stressful thoughts, or you might simply be distracted by details of your environment. When you feel your thoughts becoming disordered, make note of the fact that you are thinking, then focus on your breath again. Your goal is not to completely empty your mind; your thoughts are a part of who you are. Acknowledge your thoughts, and return to your breathing. Be aware of yourself and how you exist in this moment.

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Asian Minimalist Design and Seasonal Versatility

VERSATILITY FOR SEASONAL ENTERTAINING

“In the city fields

  Contemplating cherry-trees...

  Strangers are like friends”

                 ~ KobyashaIssa

One of the biggest advantages to Asian inspired design today is versatility. Creative types express their taste and originality in their home environments, and often “set the stage” for a new season by transforming their living spaces to greet each season throughout the year. Japanese minimalist design provides the ideal blank palette. Choose the right pieces, and you can completely transform the room with art, plants, soft furnishings, and accessories.   

For a breezy, cool summer look, stick to cushions and accessories in soothing, neutral shades. Add cozy notes to a room in autumn by incorporating eclectic retro pieces that mimic the colors of falling leaves. To brighten the feel of a room in the midst of a chilly winter, add bold splashes of color. And celebrate the return of spring with lively spring colors and an abundance of brand-new house plants.

Although Japanese Minimalist design generally eschews gaudy decorative pieces, its “tabula rasa” nature lends itself beautifully to the addition of holiday themed accessories. Add warm hanging lighting, scented candles, and a living tree during the winter solstice season and transform your rooms into inviting spaces to entertain guests.

THE TENTAI ENTERTAINMENT CENTER

TENTAI ENTERTAINMENT CENTER

The Tentai Entertainment Center's clean, minimalist lines will blend seamlessly into any Modern or Minimalist room, while its perfectly balanced, harmonious design will invoke constant compliments. This stunning piece serves as the perfect stand for your television or stereo components.

It is extremely well crafted of Eco-Friendly Solid Bamboo Wood, one of the most sustainable resources on the planet. It has two roomy drawers, two enclosed shelves, and slots to tame the frustrating spaghetti of multiple electrical cords. Choose from a fresh caramelized or dark walnut finish, so it blends perfectly with your existing pieces.

THE ROUND TENTAI BAMBOO DINING ROOM COLLECTION

THE ROUND TENTAI BAMBOO DINING ROOM FURNITURE

As inviting a dining arrangement as you could possibly wish for, the Tentai Round Dining Set perfectly marries form and function. Proudly crafted of Eco-Friendly, Sustainable Bamboo Hardwood, this is a set that will complement your Asian Minimalist home for many years – its look is genuinely timeless.

Perfect for smaller spaces, the Round Tentai Bamboo Dining Set is the ideal find for a contemporary urban flat. It will also fit snugly into the eating area of larger kitchens, for a casual, everyday dining experience. This stunning set is also comfortable enough to entertain a friend, with its gently curved seats and backs. Enjoy an amiable evening with a friend over a bottle of wine, or settle in to play your favorite board games or a few rounds of cards. Either way, you'll be proud to show off this charming compact dining set.

A lovely complement to your Tentai Round Bamboo Dining Table and Chairs, the gorgeous matching Tentai buffet is perfect for neatly storing dining essentials. It also serves beautifully as an unobtrusive sideboard to showcase modern art pieces or a collection of Asian pottery. A display of lovely Japanese garden lanterns would be perfectly suited to this delightful display piece.

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Hybrid Organic Futons: The Best of Both Worlds

Aspen Platform

Prepare for the Best Sleep of Your Life

"The lamp once out

Cool stars enter

The window frame"

                 ~ NatsumeSoseki

We get it: you love the idea of a traditional Japanese futon. You've got your eye on a gorgeous platform bed, which is the most stylish bedroom furniture on the market today. Yet you're slightly worried about switching to an entirely new type of bed, and you worry that you might miss the softer feel of a traditional mattress. 

HAIKU DESIGNS HAS GOT YOU COVERED

SERENO Organic FutonOur Serenity Plus 9-inch Hybrid Futon has all the benefits of an organic futon with a luxurious 6 inch Botanical Latex Core. It provides the cozy, firm feel of a traditional futon, but boasts the thickness of a regular mattress. We've added an entire layer of GOTS certified cotton and an additional layer of untreated Natural Eco-Wool that is completely free of coloring, flame retardant coatings, or other additives.

The result is a true Hybrid Futon that serves as a futon for your Asian Minimalist Platform Bed, but can also be used with or without a box spring on a non-platform bed (the kind with support slats). Your new hybrid Futon/Mattress will provide complete orthopedic support, and an incredibly comfortable dreamland experience. Our Hybrid Futons are sustainably produced with all natural materials.

All of our organic futons are GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certified. GOTS is the processing standard for organic fibers, and is regulated by an independent testing organization. GOTS insures that organic materials meet strict requirements for textiles, including social and ecological criteria.

A VARIETY OF CHOICES TO SUIT YOUR SLEEP PREFERENCES

Shiki Organic Futon

Our Natural Organic Futons are available in four configurations, to fit your individual sleep preferences. Our line of SerenoEcoPure and Serenity Plus Hybrid Futons are ideal if you are looking for the firmness and support of a traditional futon, but with a slightly softer and more luxurious feel.

The 7-inch thick Eco Pure Latex & Wool Futon is has a 2 inch core for a firm but comfortable sleep surface, and is manufactured without the toxic foams and chemical flame retardant coatings used in most mainstream manufacturing.

The 8-inch thick Sereno Organic Futon has a 3 inch core and includes an additional inch of Organic Botanical Latex and an additional layer of Organic wool, resulting in a slightly softer, more yielding sleep surface.

Our Organic Cotton Shiki Futon Mat provides a completely traditional Japanese style of bedding. The Shiki mat is made from natural, organic cotton and is wrapped in tufted, heavy-duty cotton material for durability and longevity. It can be rolled up when not in use and moved out of the way, or used as seating – which is the traditional Japanese style.

ORGANIC FUTONS ARE HYPOALLERGENIC AND BOOST OVERALL HEALTH

All organic futons from Haiku Designs are constructed using all-natural latex, an environmentally friendly, renewable resource sourced from the sap of the Asian Rubber tree. Natural latex provides healthy yet comfortable back support. Our Natural Latex molds to your body's natural contours, resulting in a sublimely comfortable sleep experience.

Organic latex is naturally hypoallergenic; it is resistant to mildew, mold, bacteria and dust mites. When shopping for a new mattress, this is a very important matter to consider. Dust mites are one of the most common allergens, and they can cause serious health issues. Dust mites live and breed in almost all standard mattresses. Dust mites trigger asthma attacks and cause eczema, sneezing, and itchy eyes. They can even cause depression, headaches, and fatigue. Natural mattresses and natural futons are vital for health and general well-being. If you are sleeping on a typical, mainstream manufactured mattress – especially if it is several years old – you are probably dealing with the negative effects of dust mites, and you may not even be aware of it. Switching to a natural, organic futon is one way to instantly improve the quality of the air in your sleeping environment, and boost your overall health.

Our completely organic, natural mattresses and futons are specifically designed to help you get the best sleep of your life. Organic futons contain no petrochemicals or polyurethane foams. They emit zero off-gassing of toxic fumes, so you can rest easy knowing your home environment is free of these dangerous allergens.

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How Sleeping On an All Natural Mattress is Better than Sleeping on a Bed of Nails

ALL NATURAL MATTRESS VS SLEEPING ON A BED OF NAILS

"No one travelsAlong this way but I,This autumn evening."

Modern life is complicated and fast-paced, and it takes dedication to find time for meditation and other healthy routines...

FINDING ENLIGHTENMENT IN YOUR BEDROOM 

In the pursuit of happiness and a more mindful existence, people today are making changes in all areas of their lives from their morning rituals to their sleeping environment. Rather than settling for old-fashioned synthetic mattresses and bedding, many are looking into untraditional alternatives.

Some people thing the quickest path to bliss and  enlightenment, could be to sleep on  a bed of nails. The traditional bed of nails is crafted from natural wooden planks, which are usually salvaged and upcycled. Hundreds, or even thousands, of sharp metal nails project upward from the platform. Beds with more nails per square inch are considered more comfortable and easier to master (nail count is as important as thread count).

ORGANIC & NATURAL LATEX MATTRESSES FOR LASTING INNER PEACE  

Here at Haiku Designs we think we have a better way to inner peace and nirvana.  Consider one of our all Natural and Organic Latex Mattresses as a very enjoyable and relaxing way to Deep Bliss. If not to bliss perhaps at least to a great and healthy good nights sleep.

But while you're shopping, you might also consider a natural, organic mattress or futon. Generally considered to be the more comfortable option, our EcoPure and Serenity Plus organic futons are another way to pursue bliss and inner harmony. Organic futons and organic mattresses feature a botanical latex core sourced from the Asian Rubber Tree, which – unlike standard synthetic mattresses – won't off-gas dangerous chemicals into your home.

Our organic mattresses are lovingly crafted, in Boulder, Col  fromaall natural, 100% botanical latex core. This core is then wrapped in high-quality garneted organic wool that resists mildew and mites. Then the entire package is swathed in incredibly soft, quilted all-natural, organic cotton damask. The craftsmanship and materials used in our natural futons is far superior to typical polyester foam core futons, resulting in a luxuriously comfortable futon that will hold its shape for many years – lasting about twice as long as the standard synthetic variety.

Natural mattresses can contribute to a healthy night's sleep because they don't introduce synthetic toxins into your sleeping environment. No harmful materials go into our mattresses and futons, and no noxious substances are released when they are made. Our organic mattresses and futons are never sprayed with harmful flame retardants.Wool is naturally flame resistant, so our mattresses meet all federal flammability regulations, without adding toxic chemicals into the mix. To protect your mattress, we recommend a natural mattress topper made with the same exacting standards.

The perfect complement to our organic mattresses and futons are our organic sheets, duvets, and pillows. Most mainstream, mass-produced bedding is made of synthetic fibers and non-organic cotton that require a lot of dangerous chemicals to produce. Our natural mattress toppers, natural sheet sets, and natural comforters are crafted from organic cotton that is always sourced and processed responsibly. Not only will you get a far more healthy, restful sleep, you'll contribute to the health of our planet as well.

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Five Hot Modern Bedroom Furniture Trends for 2016

FIVE HOT MODERN BEDROOM FURNITURE TRENDS FOR 2016

"How cool the breeze the empty sky is filled with the sound of the pines."

Arguably the biggest design trend in 2016 was an upswing in the popularity of minimalistic furniture with their clean lines, rich natural wood grains, and neutral color palettes of Scandinavian design create a relaxing bedroom environment.

1.  THE BEAUTY OF MINIMALISM

Our Cove Beach Platform Storage Bed seamlessly combines elements of a contemporary driftwood finish with the bold, clean appeal of Scandinavian design. This gorgeous bed supplies tons of room for storage in two huge drawers accessed at the foot of the bed. Because it's a true platform bed, there is no need for a box spring mattress that takes up valuable space that can be used for storage.

2.  RECLAIMED FURNITURE
   
   

Another popular trend in modern decorating is the use of reclaimed furniture. Salvaged wood is often incorporated into original one-of-a-kind furniture pieces, typically resulting in a rustic look. The design esthetic at Haiku Designs is timeless and minimalist, but we love the idea of reclaimed wood – so we located a manufacturer who works with solid mango wood. Traditionally, mango trees are harvested for their fruit, and at the end of their fruit-bearing years they are burned to make room for new trees. What a waste! Our mango wood furniture comes from those mature trees, which were saved from burning and crafted into gorgeous furniture that positively glows with a deep, lustrous sheen.

3.  PLATFORM BEDS

Platform beds have been around a long time especially in Europe or the East. Platform beds, strictly speaking are beds that use a platform wood structure to support the mattress. More traditional beds use a box spring and a bed open frame system to hold the mattress. Generally platform beds do not need a box spring to support the mattress. The mattress sits on series of solid wood slats to support the mattress. This trend fits nicely with the minimalist influence that is so popular today as it allows for a lower profile, more simple look bedframe. Consider the Tokyo bed for the ultimate in minimalists, low profile platform bed.

4.  SUSTAINABLE FURNITURE 

Few trends of the year are hotter than sustainable materials, and few materials are more impressive than natural bamboo. The bamboo plant is actually a type of grass, so it grows very quickly – as much as three feet (one meter) per day – and can be harvested every year. Our platform beds and platform storage beds are always made of sustainable materials. Greenington'sAzara Bed and coordinated nightstands and dressers are a stunning example of modern bamboo furniture. With its layers of hand-selected Tiger Bamboo in contrasting finishes, this sleek, modern bed is an instant makeover for any bedroom.

Copeland's Astrid Platform Bed is an artistic example of another big trend in design: eco-friendly furniture. Its splayed, tapered legs give it an edgy, Mid Century Modern vibe. The built-in side tables eliminate the need for nightstands, giving the whole room an airy, uncluttered look. Copeland Furniture is a world leader in eco-friendly furniture design, using only sustainably harvested North American hardwoods and the latest in environmentally friendly building processes. All Copeland finishes boast extremely low chemical emissions, improving the indoor air quality of your home.

5.  UPCYCLED AND RECYCLED MATERIALS

Today's hottest designers love to work with upcycled or recycled materials. Recycled furniture and reclaimed furniture are easily one of the year's most popular trends. Upcycled furniture is created directly from salvaged items, which are combined to make new pieces or repurposed to serve an entirely new function. Recycled furniture and furnishings are fresh, new products that are made from processed, recycled materials. Our recycled rugs make a dramatic statement in your bedroom, and are luxuriously soft underfoot. As an environmentally conscious shopper, you'll be proud to display these rugs in your home, knowing that they're crafted from recycled paper, silk, and cotton.

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