Home Interior Design

Modern Living Room - Collection 4

2011-05-28T07:49:00.000-07:00

Relaxed living room

This room displays Marks & Spencer's Ethnic range of products, with ochre coloured Dulux walls as a backdrop to a chocolate leather and natural coloured sofa, and dark wood shelving units and coffee table. The room has a very relaxed feel, with terracotta cushions and accessories that hint of a well-travelled homeowner.

White living room

There are many different tones of white that work really well together. Mix an ivory sofa from Sofa Sofa, with a textured rug from Next. Avoid brilliant white, by choosing a soothing bone colour for the walls and mix it with a simple white coffee table and bookcase.

Vibrant open-plan living room

Make your living room an extension of the outdoors with clever use of vibrant textures, fabrics, plants and ethnic furniture.

Office living room

Choose a classic look for your room that suits both living and working. Free up office space with cube shelves from Multiyork that can be used to divide the room and as storage. Keep work in smart storage boxes above the desk. The comfortable armchair and sofa from Sofasofa act as a relaxation spot.

Art Deco living room

The strong Art Deco theme to the room is achieved with the use of cream, beige and oyster colours. The cream leather armchair is from Taftan and curtain fabric from Romo, this is complemented by a stylish patterned rug from Next, and beautiful photo frame.

Eclectic living room

Global influences dominate, with carved African masks and a zebra-skin rug. Mirrors reflect the room and a collection of coloured glassware. Sleek built-in cupboards and a simple fireplace are contemporary touches.

Luxurious floral chair

An oversized armless chair from Kingcome Sofas is given a luxurious look with an embroidered silk floral design in bright blues, purples and acid green. A violet velvet cushion from Turnell & Gigon with contrasting piping adds extra richness, while simple, pared down accessories accessories like textured vases in natural shades and a Ligne Roset light contrast with the sumptuous fabrics.

Eco-friendly living room

To create an eco-friendly living room, choose simply made furniture like this sofa from Laura Ashley and jute rug from Ikea. Opt for natural bamboo blinds and accessorise with a bamboo vase and bowl.

Family living room

Create a soothing family space with William Morris-inspired wallpaper from Sanderson, and cream seating from Sofa Sofa. Tangerine and pastel blue velvet and silks are introduced with throws and cushions, completed with wall frames from Lombok.

Contemporary French-inspired living room

Dividing a room into coloured sections generates visual impact. Here, sleek lacquered furniture is juxtaposed with upholstered seating and modern lighting, while tactile soft furnishings lend vibrant accents.

Decadent living room

Turn your living room into a glamorous space for entertaining friends, complete with hi-tech home cinema. With a mix of opulent velvet upholstery and streamlined surfaces, the look is ‘private members’ club meets chic hotel lobby’.

Contemporary living room fireplace

Give your fireplace star treatment by setting it against a dramatic velvet stripe wallpaper and hanging a bling sunburst mirror above.

Modern grey living room

The grey colour on the walls and decorative soft furnishings give this living room a modern edge. The bookcase, accessorised with children's toys, provides a useful storage solution for families.

White living room with brown rug

Classic seating and vintage trunks are teamed with modern design pieces, like a tall floor lamp and patterned rug for a modern appeal.

Modern living room display

The bookcase doubles up as a piece of wall art. The sun-shaped mirror and feathered accessories stand out against the white walls.

Pink living room

Rich, metallic wallpaper with light-reflecting jewels and damask-style rug make this room a cosy retreat. An informal fabric chair and scatter cushions in pink velvet complete the look.

Modern living room storage

Use a combination of open shelves of differing sizes, cupboards and a media unit on wheels to store practical clutter and display accessories. Use wasted wall space above your unit to display photos.

Eclectic living room

Touches of blue introduced through casual seating and soft furnishings create a warm but vibrant look. Bring contrast to original features with eclectic accessories dotted around.

Pastel living room

Give a neutral scheme a lift with subtle stripes in soft shades of mocha, cream and duck egg. Fabrics and wallpapers are the best and easiest way to do this.

Metallic accents living room

This living room uses gold and metallic accents to create a glamorous look. Soften the look by using the full spectrum, from yellow gold to mink, blending patterns and finishes. A black floor lamp makes for an eye-catching focal point, and adds an interesting mix of old and new when teamed with the traditional stone fireplace.

Glass-panelled doors

An open-plan layout with glass-panelled doors between the living room and dining room allows light to flow through this house creating a relaxed feel. The colours of the boldly patterned lampshade are continued through into the dining room, linking the spaces together.

Fresh green and chocolate living room

Update your living room for spring with fresh green cushions, leafy wallpaper and botantical prints. Furniture in warm wood tones and dark leather adds natural texture to the look, while simple, homespun accessories bring a homely touch.

A multi-functional space

Create a multifunctional living space that works for grown-up evenings as well as after-school activities. Achieve it with flexible seating, a TV unit that can hide the screen and a sophosticated colour scheme that won't show every mark.

Designer-style living room

Love the retro look? Get it right by combining a geometric print in duck-egg and beige with neutral toned furniture for a relaxing, subtle scheme. Use key accessories like a rug, vases and cushions in an accent colour to pull the look together.

Scandinavian-style living room

The furniture has been arranged in blocks to create cosiness in this open-plan living room scheme. A quirky patterned rug adds interest to the blond wood floor and complements the green and blue accents as seen in the cushions. Skylights and beams add to the airy and spacious feel of this large living room space, giving it a Scandinavian-style feel.

Modern Living Room - Collection 3

2011-05-28T07:13:00.000-07:00

Green living room

Use matching fabrics and accessories to create a cohesive scheme. Cream curtains and cushions soften the look.

Two-tone living room

This two-tone living room is achieved with a backdrop of white walls, an ivory carpet from Cormar Carpets and a neutral coloured sofa. This is combined with a floral blind, a bold patterned rug and monochrome print cushions. Together with a black throw from the Rocha.John Rocha range at Debenhams, this is a dramatic, statement room design.

Relaxed modern living room

This room has well designed furniture and leather sofa from the Sofa Workshop. A floral touch is added with the curtains and the sleek look is continued with a dark-wood coffee table from Cargo HomeShop and neutral coloured walls.

Living and dining room

Introduce seamless living and dining space, which is adaptable for glamorous dining with a chandelier from Next, wallpaper and sleek table and chairs. While the smart white and chrome living room is a smart comfortable look for the day, with sofa from Ikea.

Floral living room

Choose bold, floral fabrics against a plain background. The off-white walls team well with the light-pink sofa from SofaSofa. This is in perfect contrast to the floral cushion fabric from Osborne & Little. The floral blind in the same fabric works perfectly against the neutral curtains.

Textured living room

Create a cosy look for your living room, choose a sofa in faux suede from Argos. Mix this with woven tables from Dwell and chunky throws and embroidered cushions. Combined with retro-print wallpaper, this creates an inviting living space.

Olive living room

Choose a rich, olive shade of paint for your living room, to give the room a cosy feel. Contrast this colour, with a pale sofa and chairs and a leather footstool from Laura Ashley. Mounted prints really work against a dark backdrop, together with a brass tripod lamp from Oka.

Bold purple living room

The colour purple suggest opulence and grandeur, so furniture shapes that mimic grand antique styles give the look a classic edge. Liquorice-black accents add a modern spin to the look.

Purple living room with chaise

Intense shade of purple, such as this one, need to be broken up to stop the colour from overpowering. Florals, on a grand and opulent scale, such as damask patterns or in silhouette, work perfectly.

Colonial-style living room

Earth tones in shades of moss or sand have a natural, soothing effect.

Simple open-plan living room

A single accent colour used sparingly looks great in this open-plan living room.

Orange and white living room

Opting for a large sofa in a regular-sized space can make a room appear larger. The trick is to match the scale of the furniture with patterned fabric and accessories of equally bold proportions. Opting to use an enlarged stencil design on the floor also gives a feeling of space.

Colourful Mediterranean living room

A turquoise feature wall offsets paintings and glass ornaments in shades of blue in this Mediterranean-inspired living room. A contemporary wrought-iron sofa, chair, console and coffee table add to the outdoor feel, while a traditional painted chair provides colour and contrast. Limestone tiles and a soft rug add brightness and texture.

Fifties living room

Ivy walls contrast with an original Florence Knoll sofa and chairs in cream leather. The curvy lounger came from eBay, a black side-table from Ikea displays a glass lamp, orchids and pebbles in a vase. Windows have shutters, an ornate mirror highlights the fireplace. Ruched Conran Shop cushions and a grey Babylon rug provide texture, a retro light interest.

Living room armchair with stripes

For a relaxed scheme, use wallcoverings to introduce stripes in muted shades of taupe and white.

Living room wall display

Rows of same-sized photos or artwork create a feature in the corner of this living room. The sumptuous nature of the purple velvet armchair is accentuated when set next to this zesty yellow wall.

Bold living room

Over-sized studding works well with a striking large-print fabric. Here the studs are echoed by the Orb circular mirror positioned on the mantelpiece and again by the black vase behind the chair itself.

Living room with geometric print

A bright geometric fabric injects vitality aginst a white backdrop.

Blue striped living room

A subtle palette of blue-green allows the upholstery of this scheme, in both vertical and horizontal stripes, to work harmoniously together.

Bold modern living room

Grey walls and accents tone down bold red furniture and homeware, giving this living room a sophisticated finish. Retro-print fabric makes a unique artwork when used as panels on the walls.

Living room with red headdress feature

Bring zest to an all-white living room by adding a bold feathered headdress feature to one of the walls.

Narrow living room

To utilise every spare inch of a narrow living room, plan floor-to-ceiling storage shelves and add ladders for easy access.

Modern rustic living room

A Sofa Workshop sofa and corner chaise gives a modern country look. Red accents liven cream walls, charcoal accessories provide contrast. A Next Home nest of tables is contemporary, a red leather tub chair adds textural contrast and a chocolate throw luxury. Artwork behind the sofa is dramatic.

Living room with slouchy sofa

Today's loft living requires a slouchy sofa - and who could resist blue velvet?

White living room with blue highlights

The basis of this living room might be simple white, but striking blue highlights prevent it from being one-dimensional.

Colourful living room cushions

A mix of contemporary tribal-inspired cushions creates a vibrant focal point in this country living room. The deep blue sofa sets off the colours within the cushions perfectly.

Contemporary living room

Create areas in rooms to give identity and character. This living room is partly devoted to lounging with the comfy, purple armchair and recliner and half a modern library with fabulous floor-to-ceiling shelving unit.

Multi-functional living room

This living room has furniture on castors, making it easy to move, a sofa bed and a chest of drawers so it can double as a guest bedroom. Walls are painted in a warm grey-green with fresh white woodwork and cocoa accents for a look that is smart yet soothing. Botanical prints above the fireplace are echoed in the floral cushions, while stripes on a cube stool create contrast. Sisal flooring and a wicker basket to store spare bedding add texture and a natural touch.

Calming living room in shades of white

For an uncluttered look in a living room make use of alcoves with floor-to-ceiling shelving that's cunningly concealed behind sliding panels. Choose sleek pieces of simple glossy white furniture, like the Lack coffee table from Ikea, that easily tones in with its surroundings and opt for taupe and grey white tones for a modern, warmer take on bright white, like the White Room Willow White shade from Dulux used on the walls. The floor lamp came from Homebase and the floor cushions are from Romo.

Sleek living room

This living room has a sleek and chic design, with ivory walls acting as a perfect backdrop. This contrasts well with chocolate leather sofas from Sofa.com and chocolate and scarlet fabric blind from Harlequin. The vibrant look is accessorised with rose cushions from John Lewis and complementing cream cushions.

Artistic living room

Paintings by owner Julie Sutcliffe hang in a living room full of individual pieces, including a suede vaulting-horse-style bench from Benchmark Furniture and an inherited writing desk.

Eclectic cream living room

Make a small living room appear much larger by using neutral colours and accessories. The DFS chaise works better than a sofa, taking up less space, while the stylish Land of Leather armchair in its funky contemporary design perfectly complements the wood-effect flooring. Add a rug - this one is from Grattan - and some artwork (Next) for eclectic, ethnic appeal.

Oriental-style modern living room

Black and red accessories, cream walls and symmetrical furniture grouping add an Oriental flavour to this modern living room. A DFS ivory leather sofa, flanked by matching glass side table and lamps, and cream window shutters made from old louvre doors make the room serene and bright. A black cabinet with an elegant sculpture and the red and black accents of the cushions and the animal print rug (just seen), both from John Lewis, create a subtle Chinese look.

Contemporary living room

Horse-hair panels from John Boyd Textiles anchor the plasma TV to the wall – and the animal theme is also picked up in the cowhide rug from Graham & Green. The cream sofa, from Sofa Workshop, has survived much use and three moves due to its washable covers. The leather chair is Matthew Hilton's Balzac, available from SCP.

Modern Living Room - Collection 2

2011-05-28T02:14:00.000-07:00

Summer living room

Create a summery feel in your living room, with a wall of floral wallpaper from Villa Nova. Keep the colour palette simple with a cream coloured sofa from the Sofa Workshop and mirrored cubes to reflect light from Laura Ashley. The overall bright, airy feel is completed with neutral curtains to allow the sunlight to flood in.

Relaxed living room

Create a relaxed style in your living room, by mixing a neutral coloured backdrop and sofa from Sofa Workshop and pale footstool. Introduce a touch of blue with cushions, floral colour in curtains and texture with a throw from Muskett & Mazzullo.

Open living room

Avoid the corridor look in a narrow room by choosing a corner sofa, and grouping furniture around the fireplace. Also, the modern canvases from CanvasRus above this have a similar coordinated feel. By adding a large mauve and plum rug from Next, this helps to open up the room and the modern canvases.

Modern living room

A Conran Shop wide leather armchair works well against pale blue wall paint from the Designers Guild. More practical than white, the colour lightens the room and increases space. Add pattern to the scheme with a customised wallpaper (Zoffany) screen – ideal for hiding children's clutter quickly, or your home office.

Retro living room

This retro wallpaper, from Harlequin, has been teamed with blocks of solid colour to soften the visual impact of the bold colour and design. The Starburst clock, from Newgate Clocks, finishes off the retro look.

Yellow floral living room

The oversized florals of the wallpaper in this room is made extra trendy in this season's hottest colour. The subtle use of florals in this room have created instant focus.The grey colour featured in the paper has been picked for the wall paint to keep the scheme toned in together. Offcuts have been framed and hung on bare walls to continue the theme.

Modern living room

Key colours of grey and red in this uncluttered white living area are picked up in the bespoke sofa by Planet Design Company, an Ikea rug and Spindle floor lamp from Habitat.

Open-plan living and dining room

A modular sofa and large rug create a defined lounging zone in the open-plan space. The red rug with black seating is a bold statement.

Blue living room with yellow highlights

Using a palette of sharp yellows and utilitarian greys is reminiscent of pioneering post-war schemes.

Relaxed living room

Eco-friendly furniture, like these bookshelves from Benchmark, are stylish and promote a greener lifestyle. Placed in a relaxed vintage-style living room, alongside a reupholstered and customised chair from Squint, they are ideal as a storage and display unit. Show off second-hand and vintage buys, from shops such as Fandango, alongside original artwork and create an eclectic display.

Modern family living room

This family room in warm taupe tones teams a modular sofa from The Conran Shop with a Vincent Sheppard wicker butterfly chair to provide versatile seating. Occasional tables in different styles create an informal feel, while a Channels sideboard and built-in shelving provide lots of storage. A Romo blind in a stylised floral print framed by striped linen curtains from Nobilis turns the large window into a feature.

Pink living room with reflective accessories

Create a warm, feminine feel in a small living room with a shell pink and oyster scheme teamed with reflective furniture and shiny accessories. Iridescent wallpaper, like this Indulgence wallpaper from Harlequin on the chimney breast, really picks up the light, especially as it is set against pearlescent Light & Space Spring Blush paint from Dulux on the walls. We all know mirrors are a great way of making a room feel lighter, so mirrored furniture, like this mirrored table from Next and the mirrored cube from Laura Ashley, makes sense in a small room.

Small basement living room

A wall of built-in storage behind the sofa and beneath the modern fireplace hides clutter and makes the most of limited space. Furniture is kept to a minimum, meaning the look can be changed with different accessories like cushions, lamps and vases. Halogen lighting with dimmers means different atmospheres and zones can be created.

Vibrant damask wallpaper living room

The cool azure green of this damask wallpaper creates a summery look in this living room. A large, comfortable contemporary sofa has a white linen frame, but the seat and back cushions in velvet, accessorised with minty green silk cushions, add a rich feel. Predominantly white and ivory accessories tone down the effect of the striking wallpaper, while a herringbone carpet adds warmth.

Graphic print living room

Play with scale and supersize a geometric-style grid motif to create strong, modern panelling. Angular furniture in toning block colours ground the look of this living room, while citrus accents add zest to the scheme. Add interest to the corner of your room with an eye-catching floor lamp.

Living room with album art

Make a strong graphic statement by filling a wall with framed classic album covers. Vertical white stripes divided the space effectively and provide a punchy contrast for the bright coral background.

Airy modern living room

Light bursts into this large living room from two huge arched windows. The leather chairs came from B&T Antiques, the rug is by The Rug Company and the glass coffee table came from The Conran Shop.

Bold wallpaper living room

Bamboo-print wallpaper and retro-style furniture pieces set the scene for laid-back lounging in this living room. Cool aqua accents to match the wallpaper are added with glassware and cushions, while the coffee table and sideboard provide storage for hidden items and ones that you wish to keep on display. Go for reproductions of original lighting designs, such as the floor lamp, for an authentic look.

Modern blue living room

Use rugs to divide areas into different zones: a long-haired dark rug will hide stains and take heavy wear, but also look smart. Here, a sturdy Chesterfield fron The Odd Chair Company is classic yet functional and looks good against pale blue wall paint. Keep clutter hidden away in stylish storage boxes from The Conran Shop.

Bright tropical-style living room

Vibrant pinks and bright orange are a bold choice, but mixed with soft cream you can create a striking look that will bring life to your living room.

Bright accents living room

Use an accent colour with impact to give your living room a stunning finish full of energy. You don't need to add much, just a few accessories such as a throw or a stool and a few cushions. Even candles and flowers can be enough to give a room a really professional finish.

Glamorous living room

A neutral scheme with monochrome accents suits an Art Deco setting. Echo the window lines and paint up to dado height in a richer shade to add depth and create a backdrop. Play with scale to keep the look modern.

Living room sideboard

Make an oil painting fit seamlessly into your modern scheme by framing it against mirror mosaic tiles for a contemporary edge.

Classically modern living room

Juxtaposing modern and period furniture can give a room an exciting edge, but keep the colours simple and light for a bright, airy feel.

Living room with pruple accents

Add a touch of floral decoration teamed with dazzling colours to totally change the mood of a room. The shocking pink and lime add a vibrancy to an otherwise bland room, and the pattern on the rug repeats the floral motif on the cushions and continues one of the rooms two accent colours.

Swedish-style living room

This living room goes for smooth lines and simple accessories to create a fresh Scandinavian look.

Living room with bright accents

Give your living room a modern twist with a colourful footstool. Teamed with muted tones and traditional prints, the scheme takes on a unique edge.

Colourful living room

Warm shades of pale create the perfect backdrop for a living room full of splashes of colour. Simple creams and beiges achieve an uncomplicated setting to show off bright accessories and bold furniture, without being too cold or stark.

Relaxed classic living room

This living room has been updated with geometric patterns and contemporary shades. Statement pieces of furniture such as the white, block coffee table give it a modern touch, while floral fabrics and antiques provide a balance with the traditional elements of the room.

Special effects living room

Lookalike walllpaper can create a stunning feature in a room. The retro-style paper looks great on this chimney breast and gives this room the wow-factor. The floating shelf cleverly creates a sleek mantlepiece and compliments the contemporary scheme.

Floral carpet living room

This room makes patterned flooring the basis of a subtle, contemporary look with lasting appeal. The fabric patterns have a similar motif to the carpet and the neutral wall colour works perfectly - keeping the room to a two-toned colour scheme means you just can't go wrong.

Green living room

The vibrant green sofa gives this living room a fresh and energetic feel. Glass lighting and furniture allow natural light to reflect around the room.

Living room storage

Full-height shelving creates a feature of practical storage. Use it to store books as well as display accessories.

Grey and blue

Grey creates a sophisticated backdrop for blues and creams. Mango wood and varied textures stop the colour from becoming dull.

Retro vibe

Bold prints, geometric accessories and structured wood furniture create a retro vibe. The same colours have been carried through the living room to give a cohesive look.

Fresh living room

Keeping the palette limited is a good way to create a contemporary look. Decorative details like the side table and rug add interest and texture.

Living room storage shelves

A wall of shelves is a great way to store and display books. By adding a fascia to the front of the shelves you can choose which books to show off.

Media storage

Use a wasted alcove space to keep your media storage out of the way. Fitting bespoke storage units means the space will be used efficiently.

Integrated entertainment system

A chimney breast decorated with bespoke contemporary-style panelling that incorporates a wall-mounted TV makes an interesting focal point. The dark seating scattered with bright cushion adss accents of colour to the scheme, drawing attention away from the TV.

Colourful living room

Create a statement look with striking and unexpected colour combinations. Flaming coppers, crimson reds and hot pinks sizzle over super-chic cinnamon browns in this bold, bright yet classic living room.

Relaxed modern living room

Update a sofa with a pair of large sculptural floor lamps to frame a seating area. The Elan leather three-seater sofa is from Jasper Morrison for Cappellini at Viaduct and the striking floor lamps are from Ecco Trading.

Multi-functional living room

This living room has a sofa bed, so it can be used as a guest bedroom, and also a decorative table which doubles as a desk. The Skandium desk and Dormy House chair create an unobtrusive work area, tucked against a wall which would otherwise have been wasted space. Soft green walls, fresh white woodwork and cocoa accessories like the Julian Chichester lamp create a warm, welcoming look.

Warm white living room

Leaving a rough line of paint strokes near the ceiling creates a relaxed, personalised touch. The large-scale paintings, disjointed mirror and elaborate chandelier pull focus to the simple fireplace.

Living room alcove storage

Make the most of your living room alcove by turning it into useful storage. Here, with a smart console table and a pair of wall-hung bookcases, the space becomes a perfect place to show off books, trinkets and family photographs. Paint the walls in two co-ordinating colours to define the area.

New England-style living room

The deep blue of this Lena Proudlock sofa and assorted patterned cushions create a contemporary take on New England style when set against a fresh white background. Using a one-colour palette, experiment with different patterns on fabrics and accessories. A Roger Oates striped rug ties the scheme together.

Contemporary blue living room

This living room has been updated with teal, black and white tones for a bolder look. Floral cushions on the sofa bring a plain sofa to life, while a flower transfer stuck to the underside of the coffee table glass is an easy way to update a piece of furniture. A wall-mounted storage unit is not only a stylish feature, but is the ideal space to keep books and magazines, and for showing off pretty things.

Designer-style living room

Black furniture stands out against the crisp white backdrop in this modern living room. The original fireplace has been plastered over to give it a boxy, modern feel and a wood-burning stove has been tucked into it. Accessories in citrus shades and a patterned rug add colourful accents.

Contemporary living room

A successful TV room avoids making the screen a focal point. To distract the eye, use colourful fabrics and artwork, while built-in storage is perfect for hiding DVDs and CDs. In this room, a traditional Howe chair on castors from William Yeoward balances the contemporary look, and can be positioned to face the screen. A Louise Bradley contemporary coffee table, prints and vases complete the look.

Flock living room

Flock's velvet-like pile was originally created using the powdered wool left over from the manufacture of cloth. Today's examples are still classic but less formal, as illustrated by these cushions, Designers Guild wallpaper and wall-hanging artwork. Mix with a Conran Shop sofa and Laura Ashley console table.

Playful living room

A red sofa and colourful striped rug make this family living room a bright and cheery space – perfect for children to play in. Pale walls are teamed with modern white furniture to allow the colourful furnishings to stand out. Designer-style accessories complete the quirky look.

Modern living room with striped wallpaper

This large window floods light onto the striking green and brown striped wallpaper, which is the focal point of this modern living room. The L-shaped sofa system creates a relaxed feel.

Chic stripes living room

A bold striped two-tone wool carpet needs careful pairing with similarly coloured fabrics and accessories. The deep aqua paint on the walls calms the scheme, while adding warmth and colour. Linking the whole look, wide grosgrain ribbon edging frames the large pattern of the curtain fabric while echoing the stripes of the carpet and chair.

Casual cream living room

The simple beauty of extra-wide blonde wooden floorboards transforms this room into a cool contemporary space. Furniture that is raised off the floor creates a lighter, uncluttered look, while gentle shades of cream on the walls, curtains and cushions soften the scheme, providing a comfortable, tranquil mood.

Modern Living Room - Collection 1

2011-05-27T09:15:00.000-07:00

Fresh blue living room

Layering up shades of blue creates a tranquil, laid-back living space. Neutral elements balance the blues for a soothing effect.

Edgy white living room

The intricate woven structure of the chair and table create a delicate spider's web effect - the synthetic material means it can be used outdoors.

Blue graphic print living room

A disparate mix of graphic prints works well when sticking to a limited colour palette, adding energy without it looking messy. Tie-dyes and ikats with modern graphics add a bold touch.

Living room with green chair

This lamp's bold lines cut through the room, adding definition to the scheme, while the bold, green chair is the focal point in this living room space.

Yellow living room

An upbeat yellow scheme brings the sunshine indoors. White and graphite accessories create an uplifting yet sophisticated feel.

Pink floral living room

When using one colour, exploring other shades adds texture. With this in mind, the same colour can be used on the walls and the furniture, like in this rich raspberry living room.

Modern red living room

A bold, bright red room can be balanced with a hint of oatmeal in the accessories. This gives a more subtle effect than white and adds a country feel to a modern design.

Green floral living room

A fresh, floral display of white and different shades of green can be invigorating. The small hints of white in the wallpaper and accessories balance the green hues.

Living room storage

Make the most of a space by customising your storage. Display books and CDs alongside mementoes and children's knick-knacks for a homely feel.

Purple floral living room

Oversized floral wallpaper can be teamed with simple bold accessories to create the right balance. The use of bright lighting will bring those colours and patterns to life.

Green living room

By using a range of tones in this living room, it prevents clashes and brings harmony between the shades. Placing artwork on a picture ledge means the display can easily be changed without having to re-hang anything.

Modern blue living room

Contrasting colours are a great way to make a statement. Large dark coloured areas, like ultramarine or even black, need bright coloured accessories to draw attention to key elements.

Fresh green living room

A statement sofa in lime with a hint of mint green, teamed with mix-and-match bright cushions, printed blinds, lamps, rugs and a tub chair in complementary colours, creates a fresh, spring look.

Retro living room

An egg-style chair adds a retro edge to this living area, while a low sideboard is the perfect storage space for magazines, books and other bits and pieces. A sunburst mirror and a ‘love’ print bring personal touches to the scheme, while bright accessories introduce colour to the all-white room.

Attic living room storage

Cotton fabrics in neutral tones create a snug space - perfect for a cosy attic living room.

Elegant living room

The wallpaper is the starting point for the elegant look in this living room. Hanging the wallpaper in the alcoves stops it from overpowering the room, but still allows it to stand out.

White modern living room

Bespoke storage, which can conceal living room clutter and display favourite items, creates a streamlined and modern look. The grey sofa, white rug and pale wooden flooring keep the room light and fresh.

Tonal living room

Stone creates a warm backdrop to this pared-down classic yet eclectic scheme that is rich in texture. Choose natural flooring for a laid-back feel.

Relaxed modern living room

The soft blue walls of this living room, along with the cosy pink sofa, create an enveloping feel. The patterned rug picks ups on the two colours, while also adding interest.

Open-plan contemporary living room

A monochrome scheme is softened with the use of brown in the furnishings in this open-plan living area. The owners had planned to keep the original fireplace to save money, but the builders took it out by mistake, so they chose a simple contemporary one from LivingStyle to replace it that both blends in and creates a calming focal point to the living area. Underfloor heating was laid under the tiles to keep the big open-plan area warm. The sofa came from DFS.

Open-plan city living room

A large-scale butterfly artwork and the handcrafted mirror fit perfectly into this double-height living space. Soft browns, greys and small shots of yellow have been translated from the painting into the room, tying the space together.

Tranquil living room

This room has such a tranquil feel. Soft green walls, white wooden floorboards, rich brown furniture and an antique chandelier all combine to create such a soft, but warm look.

Patriotic living room

This living room features an eclectic mix of treasures, while the bold blue sofa and red standard lamp add colour. Union Jack cushions on the sofa give a patriotic feel.

Relaxed white living room

A 'tile' rug is a stunning centrepiece, nicely framed by the corner sofa. The shades of grey, black and white are ultimately modern colours, but mixed with patterns and texture, they give this living room a casual, relaxed air.

Exotic living room

Use a richly coloured, patterned wallpaper on a feature wall to achieve a strikingly exotic effect. Sensuous texture can then be added with soft furnishings in satin, silk and velvet that pick out the colours of the paper.

Open-plan retro living room

A compact dining table and statement chairs create a casual dining space in this living room. The painting gives the table presence, while also reflecting the retro vibe within the room.

Living room with blue sofa

A vibrant piece of furniture is an easy way to add colour to a white room. Reflect this tone around the room with artwork and accessories.

Chic and colourful living room

Bright colours, such as this lemon yellow, used sparingly with soft tones of grey and blue create a chic look. Mirrored alcoves create the illusion of more space and frame the fireplace, drawing the eye to it as a focal point.

Living room inspired by nature

Cool and sophisticated, mid grey is a great foil for warm, grainy wood finishes. Despite being simple, this box fireplace surround, filled with chopped logs, is an eye-catching focal point.

Striking blue living room

For a unique scheme, a statement mural is perfect. Digital printing allows choice over the image and colours used and can be made bespoke to fit a space. The grey furnishings in a mixture of textures help to soften the look.

Chocolate and pink living room

A chocolate brown sofa in a classic shape, teamed with cushions in fuchsia pink, gives this living room a feminine touch while still keeping an air of sophistication.

Living room with patterned armchair

A statement armchair in a modern, nature-inspired print, marries beautifully with the wood in this room, and injects colour into the scheme.

Quirky living room light

A few eccentric pieces do wonders for a small living room. This half-shade lamp, which is made from recycled table legs, sits flush to the wall making it a stylish, wiring-free update on a traditional sconce.

Take a tour around a period-style cottage

2011-05-27T07:13:00.000-07:00

Period-style cottage house tour

Situated on a calm, rural street, this property is packed with character and charm, from the country-style exposed bricks to the welcoming front garden.

Stylish entrance hall

Black and white floor tiles add character to this hallway and coincide with the traditional period-style feel of the rest of the home. A smart seating area with striped upholstery makes great use of the space beneath the stairs. Crisp white French doors lead through to the living room creating an open-plan and welcoming entrance.

Rustic console table

A rustic console table is perfect for the hallway. Keep smaller items, like keys, to hand in a drawer and keep your favourite accessories on display. A large mirror adds interest to the wall above, and a hanging heart wreath adds a country-style touch to the front door.

Classic living room

Smart classic furniture and upholstery creates a formal feel in this living room. An elegant antique-style coffee table stands out in the centre of the room and is teamed with softer touches like the velvet sofas, luxurious window furnishings and cosy rug.

Country kitchen

At the heart of the home, this country kitchen is ideal for a large family. The kitchen and dining room were knocked together to create a large open-plan kitchen-diner where the family can enjoy casual breakfasts and relaxed dinners. Fans of entertaining, the owners installed a spiral wine-cellar underground.

Coutnry kitchen with Belfast sink

This is packed with country-style charm, from the classic Belfast sink, to the plaid roller blind. Smart painted kitchen cabinets are perfect for keeping everything tucked away, while glass fronted cabinets allow their favourite accessories to remain on show.

Step inside a well-planned country kitchen

2011-05-24T07:46:00.000-07:00

Country kitchen tour

A narrow width, angled walls and partially sloping ceiling make the layout of this kitchen a real challenge. A floor-to-ceiling cabinet, which has been finished in a warm buttermilk paint shade, hides the fridge-freezer and a larder unit.

Country kitchen tour

A neat wine rack forms part of a modern pippy oak dresser unit, which has been finished with dainty pewter and crackle-effect porcelain handles to give it a smart update.

Country kitchen tour

To create a working triangle, the sink was repositioned opposite the cooker, making the most out of the compact kitchen space. The washing machine and dishwasher have been integrated either side, with a handy rail for tea towels in between.

Country kitchen tour

At the centre of this kitchen is a traditional-style cream range cooker, which provides ample oven space for the family's entertaining needs. Rustic touches, such as a ceramic tagine and clay fish add to the country feel.

Country kitchen tour

A crook-style pewter tap with bell handle levers suits the traditional flavour of this country-style kicthen as does the ceramic belfast sink.

Step inside this modern luxurious house

2011-05-24T07:40:00.000-07:00

Exterior

This new build house features different levels and a glass extension. Floor to ceiling windows add light and a balcony area creates extra seating.

Living room

A fireplace raised off the ground and flush with the wall.

Living room sofa

A bright orange feature wall creates a strong, bold statement and looks great when the colour is followed through on the furniture.

Hallway

Stone steps from the hall are lit by skirting-height

Shower room

Keep a bathroom feeling modern by using uniform tiles, clean lines and graphic shapes.

Bedroom

Mixing different textures in a bedroom works well because they create a warm and welcoming feel. Wool throws mixed with a suede padded headboard, a walnut chest of drawers and a gold patterned lamp shade all combine to create an inviting space.

Bathroom

Install twin basins in the bathroom and half the morning queue. White basins, mixed with copper colours and wood adds warmth to a bathroom.

Step inside a New England-style cottage

2011-05-24T07:33:00.000-07:00

Exterior

A two-bedroomed Victorian terraced cottage in London.

Living room

The glass panelled wall divides the front door from the main room.

Kitchen

Each inch of space was used to make the small kitchen work. Hanging storage works well in a small room like this.

Hallway storage

The space under the stairs has been put to good use with a mixture of fitted shelving and wicker baskets.

Dining room

Storage space has been added to the alcoves on either side of the fireplace with built in cupboards.

Bedroom

An all over cream scheme gives the room a sense of space as well as a distinctly New England feel.

Bathroom

A smaller than average bath and a fitted shelf create space for toiletries and a minature basin.

Step inside an Edwardian family home

2011-05-24T07:26:00.000-07:00

Exterior

From the outside this terrace looks quite traditional, but inside, walls have been removed to create a light airy space that can be used by all the family.

Hallway

The hallway is the first place a person sees, so make the most of any original or unusual features. Floor tiles can be clean, regrouted and sealed quite easily to get them back to their original condition, and they make a great feature in the entrance hall.

Dining room

With a contemporary square arch added to this space, the dining area, extension and kitchen flow seamlessly on from each other.

Kitchen

Simple units combined with the stylish stainless steel cooker give the kitchen a sophsticated feel, but the green painted cupboard and butchers table adds a bit of personality to the room.

Storage

Floor-to-ceiling shelves all along one wall are great for storing books and CD's, and can become an interesting feature in themselves. A local carpenter can easily fix shelves in any space.

Bedroom

A highly patterned, hand-painted feature wall doesn't need to be perfect, but it will really personalise a room. Just choose one wall to decorate and keep the rest of the walls simple. Then balance the wall with a bold bedspread.

Children's bedroom

Create a playroom, or give the kid's their own area to play in and store their stuff, then hopefully they won't take over the whole of the house. A large wooden box never fails to look good and be useful where toys and tidying are concerned.

Take a tour around a Georgian country house

2011-05-24T06:54:00.000-07:00

Georgian country home

The grand living room sets a stylish scene in this elegant Georgian country home. Smart upholstery is teamed with classic-style furniture pieces for a formal look. An impressive large mirror adds interest to the corner of the room.

Stylish hallway

This large hallway makes a stylish entrance, with a pale colour palette adding to the sense of spaciousness. The black banisters add definition and an ornate chandelier creates an attractive focal point at the top of the stairs.

Classic style hallway mirror

This pretty console table is perfect for the grand hallway. Smart drawers are ideal for clearing away clutter, and matching table lamps are placed symmetrically to continue the formal feel. A large classic-style mirror completes this elegant look.

Smart living room

Smart upholstery adds delicate detailing to this reading spot, and matches the dark-wood side table perfectly. A plain wall is livened up by hanging three coordinating pictures horizontally.

Country living room

The original fireplace is a warm and welcoming feature in this living space. White walls keep the space light, important with the dark-wooden ceiling overhead. Leather sofas continue the cosy winter look, while green cushions inject a splash of colour.

Welcoming dining room

Lay the perfect formal table setting with smart place mats to compliment your dining chairs. A pale green table runner and napkins add a splash of colour while two matching plants form an attractive centrepiece.

Traditional living room

A bespoke storage unit at the back of the master bedroom allows clothes and spare bedding to be kept at bay, while mirrored doors create the impression of more space. A traditional sofa is placed by the cupboard to create the perfect dressing area - and a place for him to sit while you try on outfits!

Relaxing bedroom

A calm colour palette is ideal for a relaxing bedroom. Textured soft furnishings add interest, while an upholstered headboard keeps the scheme soft and inviting. A storage ottoman at the foot of the bed is a handy seat as well as a handy storage space.

Take a tour around The Prince of Wales' house

2011-05-23T08:40:00.000-07:00

Butler's pantry

The designers behind the Prince of Wales' answer to eco-living - a low carbon home made from natural and recycled materials - wanted to maintain a traditional aesthetic. Starting with a butler's pantry, which is designed as a corridor between the living room and kitchen, this area displays a tongue-in-cheek humour, colourful Rex and Regina tea towels that hang on the wall.

Classic kitchen

The stylist behind this interior - Emmy award-winning - had a vision which involved 'reusing old furnishings where possible, to employ natural and environmentally friendly materials in order to create a beautiful, characterful and sustainable home'. This plain english kitchen hits the spot with bags of classic character and a couple of quirky accents, including the red floor mat.

Hallway and dining room

A vintage crown coat hook provides another nod to this house's royal theme. The hook holds a bag - a supplier of natural, woven fabrics used throughout the house. In the dining room beyond, red accents are used to brighten up the neutral decor, while two porcelain pendant lights hang low over the dining table to create a cosy eating area. For a more romantically lit space, recycled firehose candlesticks are on hand and ready for use!

Homespun living room

In keeping with the sustainable agenda, all the furniture in this living room is recycled or has been reupholstered in vintage fabric. Scottish Artist, who designs furniture made from salvaged wood, created this chest especially for The Prince's House, while the bobbin wall art signifies the importance of homespun British fabrics in the upholstery.

Traditional home office

Tucked into a corner of the living room, this traditional home office is packed with character. Above a vintage desk hangs an artwork made of old, reshaped music scores. The paper basket is woven out of old magazines, and the pouffe out of old fabrics tightly woven together. Who says it doesn't pay to recycle?

Imperial-style girl's bedroom

Artist painted the pretty mural on the wall above the bed, as well as the revamped antique wardrobe beside it. Designer told us about the importance of using old textiles in the home: 'They're an underpriced market, and are a great way to showcase old labours of love in your home.'

Sustainable boy's bedroom

This teenage boy's bedroom is packed full of examples of how to employ natural and environmentally friendly materials cleverly to create a unique, characterful space. The curtains are made from pyjamas and jeans; the desk and chair have been covered in paper maps and then varnished.

Step inside a colourful contemporary home

2011-05-23T08:06:00.000-07:00

Retro living room

Get a colourful look for your living room with a vibrant accent colour - tangerine is a great choice for family areas as this sunny shade creates a really sociable vibe. Tie together with chrome furnishings and a hard-wearing floor.

Sleek contemporary kitchen

Invest in a beautifully crafted kitchen, which combines a striking mix of warm oak with sleek graphite grey. Create a truly modern design with dark panels and the latest stainless-steel appliances. The latest appliances combine with hard-wearing quick-step flooring to create a kitchen design that's as stylish as it is practical.

Eco-chic bathroom

Indulge in an eco-chic bathroom that's inspired by nature with a palette of lush green, natural slate and light oak. Keep it warm underfoot with quick-step's wooden decking-style floor and opt for a double-ended bath for total luxury.

Glamorous bedroom

Choose a classic colour combination - blue and white is always a decorating favourite, and it's a hot trend again this season. Lift the look by adding bright fuchsia as an accent to give the scheme a designer touch.

Multipurpose girl's bedroom

Include clever modular storage that's designed to accomodate a growing teenager's needs, providing space for clothes, books, and a place to do homework. Make the space personal with open shelving and wall hooks, so your teenager can display favourite accessories and mementoes.

Sugar shades seating for kids' rooms

Create a fun vibrant look with ice-cream shades such as strawberry pink, pistachio green and soft vanilla.

Take a tour of a retro home

2011-05-23T07:56:00.000-07:00

Open-plan living area

Floor-to-ceiling windows give this glowing open-plan space an air of grandeur, while the curving lines of original mid-century furniture break up the room.

Retro living area

Rather than hanging framed photos on the wall, this apartment's stylish owner has formed a creative display by layering photos on slim wall shelves. As well as adding to the living area's relaxed vibe, these pictures can be changed or added to over time to suit the owner's mood.

Retro dining area

We love this cosy, retro dining area. In addition to the beautiful Wishbone chairs and Louis Poulsen pendant, a fabric-covered screen in the corner adds an extra layer of vintage chic.

Pretty minimal bedroom

Soft pink, soft light and soft satin make this minimal bedroom a really soothing, peaceful space. A girlie sanctuary - what could be better?

Take a tour around a Victorian terrace in London

2011-05-23T07:40:00.000-07:00

Colourful living room

The focal point of this living room is the unique patchwork sofa. Dressed with mismatched floral cushions, the rich colours within sofa are intensified, creating a summery vibe.

Living room with antique influences

Marrying old and new isn't always easy. Here, antique accents, such as the paintings and cupboard, have been allowed to shine against a white backdrop. The classic shapes of the modern furniture means they don't impose.

Modern living room

The modern shape of a sleek corner sofa, along with the vibrant turquoise and moss green colours, brings a fresh look to this living room. Floral print cushions complement the natural colours, but with a black backdrop, they add a contemporary aspect.

Monochrome bedroom

Four-poster beds are often seen as traditional objects. In this case however, a reworking of the classic shape with clean lines in matt silver and matched with monochrome accessories, means it's been transformed into a contemporary piece.

Turquoise hallway

Marrying antique gold furniture with a modern sea blue colour works surprisingly well in this hallway. Painting the entire space in such a strong colour is a sure-fire way to grab the attention of guests.

Exotic bathroom

Bringing exotic style to this bathroom is the large painting and vivid blue cupboard. These strong colours evoke the mood of the Far East, while also lifting an all-white scheme.

Take a tour around this stylish East London loft

2011-05-23T07:25:00.000-07:00

Statement bed

This statement four-poster bed makes a cool contrast with the textured, exposed brick walls and smooth wooden floorboards.

Modern rustic kitchen

This open-plan kitchen area has been designed to blend into the rest of the loft space, without wall-hung kitchen units or large appliances on show.

Cool kitchen-diner

Inside window boxes bring a leafy, outdoors feel into the dining room, along with quirky, reclaimed touches such as this metal cabinet, which was originally a cocktail bar on a ship.

Cosy living room

A central wall has been removed in the living space, to create an open-plan family space that still has a sense of intimacy thanks to the creation of specific zones for eating, relaxing and enjoying a home cinema system.

Quirky bathroom wallpaper

The smallest room can also be the most glamorous - here, an Art Deco vanity unit has been teamed with silver wallpaper for a luxurious feel.

Take a tour around a modern bachelor pad

2011-05-23T07:08:00.000-07:00

White kitchen

The textured slate floor, along with the hardwood worktops, adds richness to the white and stainless-steel scheme in this kitchen. The skylights allow light to flood into the room, minimising the closed-off effect from the partition wall.

Black, red and white dining room

This round table, perfect for entertaining, is a great centrepiece for the rest of the modern design in this dining room. The red is a stark contrast to the black and white, its impact strengthened by repetition of the colour in the poster.

Sleek living room

In the main living space, frosted glass wall panels are perfect cover-ups for shelves and storage, as well as hiding the flue for the open fire. The wood veneer echoes the teak used in the kitchen. A fuchsia coffee table, which was originally a footstool, but has been transformed with toughened glass, lifts the dark wood for a shot of modern colour.

Open-plan hallway

To create a designated hallway space, where the stairs are kept separate from the rest of the open-plan living area, partition walls have been erected around the staircase. Painted matt black and teamed with an Oriental-style sideboard, this structure doesn't fail to make an impact.

Streamlined modern bathroom

A wide shelf in front of the bath, for candles, flowers and toiletries, adds to the luxurious feeling in this bathroom. A mirrored wall doubles the sense of light and space, while the neutral stone, continued from the floor onto the bath, creates a seamless, modern look.

Masculine bedroom

Wood veneer panels hide storage and lighting in this bedroom. A purple bedspread and curtains bring colour to the room, lightening the moody vibe and adding a sumptuous feel. The padded leather headboard brings a touch of hotel chic.

Take a tour around a New York loft-style apartment

2011-05-23T06:56:00.000-07:00

Open-plan living space

Light floods into the main living area of this New York loft apartment through 7 big windows. The rug, designed was intended to add a feature that would tone in with the other colours featured in the rest of the house, as well as the earthiness of all the natural wood.

Retro furniture

Retro furniture pieces in earthy wood create a relaxed vibe in this spacious loft apartment and look great swamped in natural light.

Modern minimalist dining room

The dining area nods to the European and Australian roots of the owners - the Hans Wegner wishbone chairs to Denmark: the Aboriginal artwork to Australia. Striking pendant lights are hung low to define the dining zone in an open-plan space.

Pink and grey kitchen

A mix of vibrant pink and earthy concrete creates a striking contrast in this industrial-chic kitchen. The same tone has been taken from the bar stools and used for an eye-catching splashback.

Twin boys' bedroom

The clever bunk beds are not only fun for the boys, but they also make the most of 'dead' vertical space in the room. They were deisgned and built by Solid Solutions Group.

Kids' home office

To define the 'homework' zone in this boy's bedroom, a skull and crossbones has been painted to create a feature wall. Modular storage units have been installed to keep the space clear from toys and other clutter.

Kids' playroom

This kid's playroom has a series of fun, interactive features. Ladders leading up to a mezzanine level and play holes to look and poke limbs through, create a mini adventure room.

Peaceful bedroom

The bright colours that characterise the rest of the apartment are banished from the bedroom with muted and calming shades creating a peaceful feel. The abstract print above the bed, by artist Selina Woolcott-Forbes, was used as the starting point, and works to pull the rest of this cosy look together.

Take a tour around a detached 1940s house

2011-05-23T06:40:00.000-07:00

Exterior

A five-bedroom 1940s detached house in Hertfordshire filled with style ideas on mixing rich materials and contemporary style.

Living room

Create a warm and relaxing feel in your living room with a rich mix of chocolate brown, rusty red and a fresh green. To complement the look, go for dark furniture and a pale neutral carpet to lift the scheme.

Dining room

Create a warm and elegant dining room centred around a classic wooden table and formal leather chairs. Purple accessories complete and complement the wall colour.

Bedroom

The huge window and fabrics in rich colours give a dramatic feel to this bedroom, complemented by the dark brown leather bed. Chocolate accessories add a sophisticated element, and the whole room is then softened by using a warm floral wallpaper on the feature wall behind the bed.

Guest bedroom

Large freestanding furniture and a wrought-iron bedstead are the basis for creating a room with a French antique look. Choose a sophisticated shade of soft lilac for the walls and accessories to add a feminine touch.

Children's bedroom

Choose stylish white furniture to create a bedroom that a girl won't outgrow, then use accessories to accommodate her changing tastes. She might like pink now, but a duvet cover is easier to change than a bed if she decides she doesn't like pink anymore!

Bathroom

Create an opulent feel to your bathroom by choosing mosaic tiles and complementary wall and floor tiles in a soft caramel colour. Add a contemporary freestanding bath and stylish chrome taps for added style.

Take a tour around a Rock'n'Roll Edwardian mansion

2011-05-22T03:42:00.000-07:00

Home office

The original and pretty rare Edwardian fireplace was almost replaced by something more modern but thankfully it stayed and was complemented by a Mies van de Rohe chair and the stunning Bauhaus curved desk.

Eclectic hallway

A mix of design and styles really works in this room thanks to the simple palette; blue and white. The mirrored sideboard, which looks like it's a mosaic.

Lazy living room

The large skull artwork might not be to everyone's taste but it makes a powerful style statement - plus it's by Damien Hirst! The dark plum walls are off-set by plum and gold leaf-motif wallpaper, with the wall above the dado rail kept white to ensure the colour isn't too overbearing. The circular retro sofa and round coffee table add a sociable aspect to the main living room.

Bedroom furniture

The bedroom is an oasis of calm with a touch of Art Deco style. The soft latte/grey walls provide the perfect backdrop for a few choice pieces of furniture, such as the French-style gold and white chair, the simple bedside cabinet and luxe lamp.

Sleek wet room

We've got a touch of the green-eyed monster after seeing this wet room. The double shower contains a marble bench at either end so the owners can bathe hammam style!

Living room

A room with a view and a place to chill out. The large mirror reflects the light from the window, and the chaise longue is an alternative to a compact sofa as it's big enough for two. The 'LOVE ME' sign is a reminder of a daily mantra.

Take a look inside this eclectic Victorian terrace in London

2011-05-22T03:31:00.000-07:00

Cosy living room

Despite the white palette, this living room is a cosy haven thanks to the relaxed sofa fake fur rug, fireplace, antique mirror, and accents of vivid red.

Classic hallway

The wall from the living room to the hallway was knocked down to increase the amount of light in both spaces. Antique finds bring a classic look to the design, while the black wooden floor contrasts with the white walls for a touch of drama.

Rustic kitchen sink

The small basement kitchen, dug out by previous owners from the original cellar, has a surprisingly light feel. The white walls, pale granite worktops and open shelves marry beautifully with rustic touches to create a French farmhouse feel.

Farmhouse-style kitchen

Weathered slate floor tiles, painted brickwork and old-style metal signs inject a rustic vibe into this kitchen. Blackboard paint has here created a practical area for lists and notes to be written.

Fairytale bedroom

This bedroom oozes fairytale charm, with a bespoke wallpaper and French-style statement bed being the focal points. Soft furnishings that reflect the tones in the wallpaper, along with boudoir-style lights complete the look.

Feminine bedroom accessories

Bespoke floral wallpaper has been used on the opposing bedroom wall for a cohesive look. A Tailors dummy, the distressed chest of drawers and gilt accessories bring feminine charm and a shabby chic vibe to the room.

Dramatic bathroom

The black roll-top bath is the centrepiece of this bathroom particularly striking against an all-white background. The period taps and metal sign enhance the classic design of the bath, while the modern palette adds a pleasing contrast.

Take a tour around this open-plan Victorian terrace

2011-05-22T03:21:00.000-07:00

Living room

Bold artwork and muted shades give this living room a modern, masculine feel.

Dining room

A skylight floods the dining area with light. Dado-height alcoves keep the old-school radiators neatly out of the way.

Kitchen

The kitchen was moved to the centre of the house, making it the hub of the ground floor.

Home office

The back bedroom was divided in half, creating a wet room on one side and a home office on the other.

Bedroom storage

The mirrored chest of drawers is from antique market, and the mirror is from Oliver Bonas.

Bathroom

In the ensuite the tiles are Venezia from Porcelanosa and the bath is from Bathstore.

Take a tour around a Brighton renovation

2011-05-22T03:13:00.000-07:00

Living room

The living room is the owners' happy hub – they trawled junk shops and flea markets to find the stone bust, the dresser and artworks. Other eclectic pieces like the studded Chesterfield sofa, the feather fans and oversized candlesticks, add glamour.

Home office

The owners decided to create a home office next to the living room, so that one of them can be working and the other watching TV, but they can still chat to each other. It’s a really lovely, adult space.

Dining room

The dining area, at the far end of the living room, is furnished with mid-century pieces, graphic art and sleek lamps for relaxed, modern vibe. The owners removed all the partitions and fittings to create a large family room that was filled with sunlight.

Kitchen-diner

The central kitchen island unit is a reclaimed piece in disguise. It was an old cupboard, badly beaten up, but a lick of paint and a lot of love worked miracles.

Kitchen storage

Classic, traditional units blend with clever one-off wonders, like these blackboard-paint vegetable drawers. The units are made from an old dresser and together form a kitchen with bags of history!

Bedroom

Jewel-coloured bedlinen and a luxurious armchair give the master bedroom glamorous feel. The gallery above the bed features pictures of their families' generations. Salvaged doors make an unusual, and beautiful, headboard.

Bedroom storage

Storage boxes, piled high in a multitude of colours, add to the eclectic feel in the bedroom. An oversized mirror adds grandeur.

Bathroom

This bathroom was designed to be functional but inviting. These gorgeous tiles give a cool, seaside feel to the space and contrast beautifully with 1960-style mismatched mirrors and the classic-style his-and-her sinks below.

Children's room

This simple, light-filled girl's bedroom has an Arts and Crafts feel with lovely antique pieces alongside fun items, like the dog lights, the rocking sheep and the pretty ball lights round a salvaged mirror.

Take a tour around a gorgeous Caribbean hideaway

2011-05-22T03:02:00.000-07:00

Caribbean retreat

Living room, gazebo/second living room, dining room, kitchen, three bedrooms, four bathrooms and a swimming pool.

Open-plan dining room

High ceilings, large expanses of glass and pale surfaces maximise light. The dining room is set up so that guests can marvel at the view. Numbered cushions on the seats is a personal touch, while huricane lamps will provide twinkling candlelight during the evening.

Balcony

Rustic sun loungers contrast beautifully with the slick polished concrete floor, reflecting the clever fusion of colonial and contemporary styles in the house.

Bedroom

The master bedroom is strongly defined by straight lines and a monochromatic palette, with antique Chines cabinets adding warmth. Individually, the framed mirrors either side of the bed would be merely practical, but in multiple they are a bold statement. The increased reflection bounces light around the bedroom, making it appear larger.

Dining room and living space

The living room, dining room and kitchen are divided by half walls that define the space without chopping it up. White furniture is used where possible to create a cool and calm look, while some black pieces provide definition in the open-plan space.

Living room

In the living room, decorative textiles and Chinese pieces add delicate detail to a bright white backdrop. Antique lanterns have been given a new lease of life on top of decorative storage.

Photo gallery

The walls have been lined with photos mounted in simple, but striking black frames. These echo the geometric patterns of the windows and doors, and tie in with the monochrome scheme.

Home office

The owners can read or catch up on paperwork at their antique Oriental-style bureau - when they're not enjoying the sunshine!

Kitchen

The mahogany kitchen units were made in Denmark. The glazed cabinets are great for displaying treasures, while the rustic pendant lights introduce a bit of Caribbean culture to the scheme.

Take a tour around an Arts and Crafts semi

2011-05-22T02:51:00.000-07:00

Hallway

Living room, kitchen-diner, utility room, study, cinema room and playroom on the ground floor, four bedrooms, a dressing room and two bathrooms upstairs.

Living room

An Edwardian fireplace in the living room has been given a modern makeover by painting it the same shade as the walls. The ornate ceiling plasterwork survived, despite one of the builders working upstairs putting his foot through it!

Cinema room

Providing a place to relax in the evenings, the downstairs cinema room is filled with comfy cushions and film memorabilia.

Kitchen

The wall between the kitchen and dining room was removed to create an open-plan family space. The owners also fitted wall-mounted rails for easy access to utensils.

Bedroom-bathroom

The luxurious roll-top bath (mounted on untreated oak blocks) and Le Corbusier chaise blend with original features in the master bedroom, but all the while maintaining a show-stopping open-plan scheme. Inspired by the feel of Babington House, it mixes traditional elements with very contemporary ones. A wood-burning stove has been added to keep the room cosy in winter.

Bathroom

The Aria mirror in the bathroom was chosen because it was a break from traditional style. The owners fell in love with this design instantly because they wanted something completely different.

Children's bedroom

This boy's bedroom is packed with colour. A statement rug brightens up white flooring, and a classic rocker adds another pop of red. The castle bed is a playful touch and is teamed with a cowboys and indians-inspired wallpaper.

Step inside a cosmopolitan Victorian terrace

2011-05-21T03:28:00.000-07:00

Open-plan dining room

Open-plan living/dining/kitchen space with study area, two bedrooms, two bathrooms, dressing room, office and screening room

Hallway

Simple white walls and reclaimed pine floorboards look fresh, while artwork, books and furnishings add colour. The hallway is given true individuality with cool ideas and quirky finds.

Living room

A dedicated screening room is intended to make watching TV or movies an event. The white walls are clad with bookshelves to create a library-like feeling, while the green sofa adds a burst of colour to the space.

Kitchen

The renovated kitchen space makes an instant impact through its unexpected sense of height, space and light. In order to make the kitchen truly original, the owner customised units with glass frames housing pictures, which he can swap on a whim.

Living room

Modular lounge seating and cosy rugs create a welcoming cosy feel in the living room that's contemporary.

Bathroom

This bathroom proves that decorating with pale-coloured tiles and a large mirror can create an airy, light-filled space.