Don't be too matchy matchy
Don’t make a scheme that all matches and goes together, this will feel like a bad hotel. Mixing up colours and fabrics creates a feeling that things have evolved over time, like most great rooms have.
Don’t hang picture or mirrors too high
I love painting hung one above another–the bottom one can be really quite low so its line is broken by a table lamp.
Do paint your ceilings a colour or wallpaper them
I’ve done this a lot in my houses and for clients, and once you’ve tried it you won’t go back. White ceilings feel very unloved if you have no other white paint in the room, which I generally don’t. A trellis design wallpaper or a stripe looks sensational on a ceiling, and it never overpowers as it's above the eyeline.
Don’t use free-standing loo roll holders
…unless there’s an ash tray on the top.
Do have fun with cushions
I love to mix up front and back fabrics and add trims. Mix up the textures too, combining velvet, silk, or chintz–you get the idea. Don’t match them too much to the rest of the room, be a little bohemian.
Always spend money on good lamps
You don’t want these to be an afterthought–a good lamp and shade can make a room.
Do be brave when painting the woodwork in a room
I love dark green windows and skirtings for example, or mustard yellow. Obviously this depends on the rest of the room, but be bold.
Don’t use boring tiles…
…commission an artist like moi! I love tiles that are painted for a specific position, whether above a range or used for a splashback, they can be personalised and fun.
Don’t have a totally fitted kitchen
Put all the ready-made cupboards below the work surface then add freestanding antique or vintage cupboards, dressers, or chests of drawers. It makes the space feel like a charming room. Also add freestanding lamps–no hidden down lights please.
Don’t hide your TV
If you like watching the box have it exactly where you watch it with pride. Too boring hiding them but I’d avoid the garage door size ones.
