How to add colour and pattern to your rural retreat

Here are some useful tips to add colour and pattern to your rural retreat home!

Do limit the number of colours you use. White provides the perfect canvas for layering colours. Aim for two neutral colours and two hues then add one extra accent colour to make the other colours pop. If you want to go for a sophisticated look, aim for fewer colours.

Don’t start with colour and pattern. When designing a room, begin with major pieces in neutrals such as couches, tables and chairs before you think about wall treatments, throws, cushions and rugs.

Do use soft furnishings, accessories and artwork to add colour and pattern to your room. Cushions are relatively inexpensive and can be changed every year or so along with rugs which don’t tend to last an extensive period of time. Artwork can also be moved to a different room or replaced to create a new theme in the room.

Don’t buy a sofa with a pattern on it. This is a large piece so by having a bold pattern it can dominate the room and make it difficult to bring together the other objects of the room. Sofas are expensive so as colour and pattern trends change you don’t want to buy a new one regularly.

Do use rugs to ground furniture and define the space. This is a must for rooms with wooden floorboards or concrete flooring, as they will also add warmth underfoot.

Don’t be afraid to splurge on something you love. This could be a couch, artwork, lighting or a rug. This item has the potential to become the hero piece of the room and one that you will have and enjoy forever.

You may also like

Summer entertaining: 6 easy steps

Our steps to holiday entertaining have your event planning covered Want to make your guests feel extra special when they drop round to enjoy your country-style hospitality this summer? Maybe it’s a sunny brunch on the deck looking out to the hills, or a casual bite to eat back ...

Devils ivy in a pot

Your guide to indoor plants

If you’re looking for that single, finishing touch to add to your home we have your answer - indoor plants. The humble indoor plant is well and truly back on trend. Studies show that decorating with greenery indoors can reduce stress and create a general feeling of wellbeing. On ...

The 6 hottest home trends for 2015

2015 is shaping up to be a colourful year for interiors with pastels, metallics, matte finishes, bold floral prints, feature lights and concrete all taking centre stage. Here are the top trends you should know about. 1. Pastels This year we will be seeing a diverse range of colours, in particular gentle ...