AUTUMN INTERIORS SMALL STEPS
YOUR AFFAIR WITH BRIGHTS CAN BE AS SIMPLE AS YOU LIKE
If you just want to ‘dip a toe’ into colour, your affair with brights can be as simple and low-cost as you like. “The easiest way is to use brightly coloured cushions,” says Yvonne Jones. “You could also think about indulging in some Missoni fabric, and making cushions with a velvet back. The shiny and warm fabric is lovely to the touch, and the combination of colours looks great. And look out for over-scaled gold, ceramic pots or brightly coloured glass jugs and vases – they don’t need to be expensive, just colourful.” “Introduce textiles such as throws in bright and bold colours,” adds Penny Allen. “The more you like it, the more you add – small baby steps!” For really strong colour, Dorian Bowen suggests using statement pieces such as a sofa or large custom/commissioned artwork. “Our artist-in-residence, Lois Seco, creates bespoke artwork for our projects by incorporating elements of colours already in the design, together with your chosen accent colour,” he says. “You can then go to town with any other colour you want!”
“Artwork is a great way to add bursts of colour,” agrees Deborah Drew, “but you can also add bold statement colours with a contrasting armchair or striking dining chairs. Look at incorporating bright or richly-toned rugs with a silk or viscose content – they reflect light beautifully and add depth to your scheme with a hint of luxury.” Nicole Daniels, however, believes in going the whole hog. “I’m not a great believer in using just a shot of colour,” she admits. “If you want to make a difference, then go for it! Either use colour on walls or on larger pieces (sofas and feature chairs). If you’re worried about it looking too garish, keep the scheme to one colour but in different tones. And make sure you mix it with neutrals and natural materials to keep it fresh, subtle and stylish.” When all else fails, you can always call in the professionals. “They will hold your hand and gently take you on a wonderful journey of colour,” says Andy Bradshaw. “Life is too short to spend it living in magnolia.” w
This lush, fern green freestanding bath from Mandarin Stone works perfectly against the dark grey Casablanca tiles
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