I know a bit about decorating and homeware, but sometimes even my house doesn’t seem right. It might be a mantelpiece display that looks clumsy, or a colour that isn’t working. If you ever need advice or want to share a great find or tip, don’t hesitate to get in touch – maybe we can help each other.Share your ideas with me: [email protected]
outed or drab?
Q A few years ago you showed a picture of a room with brown walls in your magazine and I’ve never forgotten it. Now I’m decorating my first home, and whenever I try to tell my husband about this scheme he says “yuck” and imagines a much lighter colour. How can I convince him?
A Yes, I remember the one. It was a bedroom with brown walls and a cane bedhead. Here’s a similar colour, used in a living room. If you contrast this rich, warm chocolate shade with light – even white – accessories, you’ve got the ingredients for stunning decor.
Colour & age
Q I have a lot of vintage linen which I held on to after my nana died. I’ve also got some gorgeous silk fabric I bought in India. How can I use them in my home instead of leaving them folded up and getting musty?
A An eclectic mix of shabby chic and Eastern luxury is right on trend at the moment so you needn’t be restrained in terms of colour or texture. Use your treasures as bedding, throws, or to make cushions or curtains, then stand back and admire the effect!
Plate perfection
Q I always buy decorative plates when I’m travelling. They’re often so pretty, they feel like little works of art. Trouble is, they’re sitting in huge piles in the cupboard and I don’t know how to display them in my apartment. Do you have any bright suggestions?
A These little works of art deserve to be displayed – on your walls. China and homeware shops sell strong hangers that you wet and apply to the back of the plate. Leave to dry, then hang your plate from a picture hook.
Too many books
Q We’re avid readers in our house but our bookcases are overflowing and we’re tripping over piles of books on the floor. The kids refuse to throw out their childhood favourites and I understand that. What can we do?
A Fill a whole wall, floor to ceiling, with shelves – like a real library. If you are handy with a hammer and nails, simple shelves aren’t hard to build, but if you want a more sophisticated arrangement, ask a few local joinery firms to quote for the job.
Sunny retreat
Q our home has a little glassed-in veranda – or sun room – which we only use for storing shoes and gumboots and drying clothes (and the cat sleeps there). I was thinking I should try and utilise it better but I just don’t know where to start. Do you have any ideas?
A If you dry clothes in there I’m guessing it must be sunny – making it the perfect space to create a little retreat for yourself. If the area needs a paint, try it in white from top to toe, then add bright colours as accents. Surround yourself with special things such as cards, letters and mementos.
