That Eric Alper

By Mitch Rice

Open-plan living has become the gold standard in modern home design. Knocking down walls to create spacious, interconnected areas can make a home feel larger, brighter, and more inviting. However, the freedom that comes with an open-plan layout can also bring a unique challenge: how do you arrange your furniture to create functional, comfortable zones without walls to guide you?

At RC Willey, we know that thoughtful furniture placement can transform an open-plan space from a chaotic expanse into a cozy, practical haven. Here’s how to master the art of arranging your home furniture to ensure smooth flow and optimal functionality in any open-plan layout.

1. Define Your Zones

In an open-plan home, the first step is to define different areas for different activities. Think about how you and your family use the space:

• Living area: For relaxing, watching TV, or entertaining guests.
  
• Dining area: A dedicated spot for meals.
  
• Work or study nook: A quiet corner for productivity.
  

Use rugs, lighting, and furniture placement to visually separate these zones without putting up physical barriers. For example, a large area rug under the sofa can help define the living area, while a pendant light over the dining table sets it apart from the rest of the space.

2. Consider Traffic Flow

An open-plan home should feel easy to move through, without awkward obstacles. To achieve this:

• Allow clear pathways between furniture pieces.
  
• Avoid placing large furniture in direct walking routes.
  
• Arrange seating so people can easily enter and exit without squeezing through tight spots.
  

A good rule of thumb is to leave at least 2-3 feet of walking space around and between furniture.

3. Use Furniture as a Divider

Furniture can be a clever way to subtly divide zones. For example:

• A low-backed sofa can separate a living area from a dining space while keeping sightlines open.
  
• A console table or open shelving unit can create a boundary and provide extra storage without blocking light.
  

This technique maintains the airy feel of an open plan while giving each area its own purpose.

4. Anchor with Statement Pieces

In a wide, open room, it helps to have a focal point to prevent the space from feeling too scattered.

Choose a standout piece — like a stylish sectional, an eye-catching dining table, or a dramatic light fixture — to ground each zone. Arrange other furniture around these anchors to create balance and cohesion.

5. Embrace Flexible Furniture

Open-plan living often calls for furniture that can adapt to different needs. Consider items like:

• Nesting tables that can be tucked away when not needed.
  
• Modular sofas that can be reconfigured for different occasions.
  
• Benches or ottomans that provide extra seating and can be moved easily.
  

This flexibility allows you to adjust the layout as your family’s lifestyle evolves.

6. Pay Attention to Scale

Large open rooms can dwarf small furniture, making the space feel empty. Conversely, oversized pieces can overwhelm the area and disrupt flow.

When choosing furniture, keep these tips in mind:

• Measure your space carefully.
  
• Opt for furniture that suits the proportions of the room and the designated zone.
  
• Don’t clutter the space with too many small pieces; fewer, larger items often work better in an open plan.
  

7. Create Visual Harmony

To tie it all together, maintain a consistent design style and color palette throughout the open-plan area. Complementary tones, materials, and finishes help different zones feel connected and cohesive.

For example, echo the wood finish of your dining table in your coffee table or shelving. Or repeat an accent color from your living room throw pillows in your dining chair cushions.

8. Let the Light Shine

Open-plan homes thrive on natural light. Arrange furniture to make the most of your windows:

• Keep bulky furniture away from window areas.
  
• Use mirrors strategically to reflect light deeper into the room.
  
• Choose lighter upholstery and rugs to enhance the airy feel.
  

Good lighting also helps define spaces. Combine overhead lighting, floor lamps, and table lamps to create a warm, layered ambiance throughout.

9. Personalize Your Space

Finally, make your open-plan home truly yours. Display artwork, family photos, or favorite décor items to add personality and warmth. Plants are another excellent addition; they bring life and help soften large, open areas.

Bring It All Together with RC Willey

Arranging an open-plan home is all about balance — creating distinct, functional zones while keeping the space open and inviting. With thoughtful planning and quality pieces from RC Willey, you can design a layout that flows effortlessly and fits your lifestyle perfectly.

Whether you’re furnishing a new home or refreshing your current space, explore our wide selection of stylish, durable home furniture to find everything you need to make your open-plan living dream a reality.

Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.

By Mitch Rice

A Term Plan for NRI is conceptualised for Non-Resident Indians, Overseas Citizens of India or Persons of Indian Origin cardholders, & their families to fulfil the financial requirements. Irrespective of the place of residence, the term plan provides financial security along with the death benefit in the absence of the policyholder.

Term Insurance for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) offers financial security to their family members, with reasonable premium costs. It offers several benefits, such as flexible policy terms, easy claim settlement processes, cost-effective premiums, etc. However, one should take into consideration certain factors, such as documents required, eligibility criteria, taxation benefits, medical examination required, etc., thus helping in choosing an insurance company. 

Eligibility Criteria

One can purchase a term plan in case of an NRI having a minimum age of 18 years & a maximum of 65 years of age. Provided below is a list of individuals who can buy a term plan in India:

• Non-Resident Indians (NRIs)

They are a citizen of India who is temporarily living in India, having a valid Indian passport. 

• Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) or Person of India Origin (PIO)

They are foreign nationals except for Pakistan & Bangladesh, having the mentioned criteria fulfilled:

1. Spouse of an Indian National
2. Parents or grandparents who were Indian citizens
3. Previously, having an Indian passport

• Foreign Nationals

They are foreign nationals residing in India.

Reasons to Buy a Term Plan in India by NRIs

While looking forward to the family’s financial future, choosing a plan from the best term insurance company in India will bring multiple benefits that best suit your requirements. These are as mentioned below:

• Cost-Effective Protection for Family Members:

A term plan often offers a considerable amount of coverage at affordable premium rates. Hence, these plans offer financial security to their family members within their budget.

• Significant Tax Advantages:

It offers deduction of tax on the premium amount paid u/s 80C. Additionally, the death benefits received are also exempt from tax, hence increasing the financial strength of the NRI.

• Convenient Payment & Management:

It offers easy modes of payment, which also include payment through NRE or NRO account, digital platforms, etc., which can be accessed from anywhere in the world.

• Global Coverage with Local Benefits:

This term plan offers worldwide coverage, ensuring protection & safety irrespective of where the NRI lives. The family members residing in India will continue getting benefits.

• Simplified Process Despite Distance:

This plan often allows the policyholder to get themselves examined in their country of residence, verifying documents virtually, without any requirement to visit India.

Steps to Apply for a Term Plan by NRI

Provided are the steps to be followed to apply for an NRI term insurance:

Step 1: Conduct Research about the Plans

Assess the term plans available & compare those that can be applied by NRI individuals.

Step 2: Choose a Plan

Choose a plan, depending on certain factors, such as policy tenure, coverage required, affordable premiums, turnaround time, claim settlement ratio, etc.

Step 3: Fill Out the Application Form

Fill out the accurate details, which include your personal, financial, & occupational information.

Step 4: Submit the Documents

Submit the required documents, such as a visa, address proof, passport, photographs, etc.

Step 5: Conduct Medical Check-Ups

Get the medical check-ups performed either in India or abroad, as required by the insurance company.

Step 6: Make the Premium Amount

Make the payment towards the premium amount via the international mode of payment options provided by the insurance company.

Step 7: Issuance of Policy

Once the submission & verification of documents have been completed, the insurance company will issue the policy document. It will be sent to your registered emailaddress.

Premium Payment Modes for NRIs

Provided are the premium payment options made available for NRIs:

Payment Method	Details
Cheque Payments	Premium amount can be paid by cheques drawn from NRE, NRO, or FCNR accounts.
NRE/NRO/FCNR Accounts	Payments can be made through Non-Resident Ordinary (NRO), Non-Resident External (NRE), or Foreign Currency Non-Repatriable (FCNR) accounts through internet banking.
Digital Wallets & UPI	Some insurance companies also allow payments through Unified Payments Interface (UPI)& digital wallets for added convenience.
International Credit or Debit Cards	Insurance companies may also accept MasterCard, International Visa, &American Express cards for premium payments.
SWIFT Transfers	Premium amount can be remitted directly from the foreign bank accounts using SWIFT transfers in various currencies.

Tax Implications 

• According to Section 80C of the Income Tax Act of India, 1961, a deduction of up to INR 1,50,000 can be availed on the premium amount paid towards the term plan.
• The amount of death benefit received by the beneficiaries is totally exempt from tax u/s 10(10D), subject to certain terms & conditions.
• Additionally, if the payouts received are not exempt from tax u/s 10(10D), they will be subject to the tax deducted at source, i.e. TDS. NRIs are eligible to avail of credit for the total tax liability incurred.

How to Claim an NRI Term Insurance in India?

Mentioned are the steps to claim an NRI Term Insurance in India:

Step 1:For instance, inform the insurance company about the death of the policyholder.

Step 2: Complete all the formalities, such as submitting the documents. This includes claim forms, policy documents, medical & death certificates, post-mortem reports, etc.

Step 3: The investigation will be performed by the insurance company, which may take up to 3 months. 

Step 4: The insurance company may ask for any additional documents for clarification purposes.

Step 5: The insurance company, after approval, will disburse the claim amount.

Conclusion

A term plan is a very important decision in your life in terms of financial management, as it offers financial security to your family in your absence. A term plan for NRIs provides this security, even if you reside in any other country, away from your family. This helps an NRI remain tension-free in case of any mishap. 

Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.

By Mitch Rice

Quilting is more than a craft, it’s a journey of creativity, patience, and skill-building. Whether you’re picking up a needle and thread for the first time or looking to refine advanced techniques, finding the right quilting class can make all the difference in your progress and enjoyment. The key is matching your current skill level and goals with the right type of instruction.

Starting Out: Beginner Quilting Classes

If you’re new to quilting, start with a beginner-friendly class that covers the basics. These classes typically focus on essential techniques such as fabric selection, cutting, piecing, and simple machine sewing. You’ll likely complete a small project, like a lap quilt or table runner, that teaches you how to follow patterns and handle your materials confidently.

Look for classes that include:

• Hands-on guidance with rotary cutters, rulers, and sewing machines
  
  
• An introduction to basic blocks (like the nine-patch or rail fence)
  
  
• Simple finishing techniques like binding and basic quilting stitches
  
  

Most importantly, beginner classes should create a relaxed, supportive environment where you can build confidence without pressure.

Intermediate Classes: Building on the Basics

Once you’ve made a few quilts and feel comfortable with your tools, you may be ready for intermediate classes. These courses delve deeper into pattern complexity and offer a chance to explore your personal style.

In intermediate classes, you might learn:

• How to work with triangles and curves
  
  
• Foundation paper piecing
  
  
• Color theory and fabric coordination
  
  
• Free-motion quilting and new stitching patterns
  
  

These classes often include projects that take longer to complete and encourage more creativity in design. They’re ideal for quilters who want to challenge themselves without feeling overwhelmed.

Advanced and Specialty Classes: Mastering the Art

For experienced quilters looking to refine their skills or explore specific styles, advanced or specialty classes are a perfect fit. These sessions may focus on intricate piecing techniques, hand quilting, appliqué, art quilting, or even quilt show preparation.

Advanced classes are best suited for quilters who:

• Are confident in reading and modifying complex patterns
  
  
• Want to explore traditional or modern quilting genres more deeply
  
  
• Are interested in textile design, dyeing, or surface embellishment
  
  

Many advanced classes are taught by master quilters or nationally recognized instructors and may be offered in multi-day workshops or retreats.

Online vs. In-Person: Which Format Is Right for You?

Both formats have their perks. In-person classes offer hands-on help, social connection, and direct instructor feedback. They’re great for tactile learners and those who enjoy group settings.

Online classes, on the other hand, offer flexibility, access to top-tier instructors from around the world, and the ability to learn at your own pace. Many online platforms also include downloadable resources and community forums for support.

Final Stitch: Choose the Class That Fits You

No matter where you are in your quilting journey, the right class can motivate, educate, and inspire. Take time to evaluate your skill level, goals, and preferred learning style before enrolling. Whether you’re sewing your first stitch or preparing a quilt for exhibition, there’s always something new to learn, and joy to be found in quilting.

Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.