How to choose a room scheme

Creating a room scheme can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into simple steps makes it easy to design a space full of warmth, personality, and realness. Here’s a straightforward way to approach it:

1. Start with a Mood & Inspiration

Think about how you want the room to feel—cozy and warm, fresh and airy, or rich and dramatic? Gather inspiration from nature, places you love (like the Lake District), or even a favourite piece of fabric or artwork.

2. Choose a Colour Palette

Pick 3-5 colors that complement each other. A simple formula is:

• A base colour (neutral tones like warm white, soft beige, or deep green)

• A main colour (this could be earthy terracotta, soft blue, or moss green)

• An accent colour (something bolder like mustard yellow, rust, or deep navy)

Use your colours in different proportions: about 60% base, 30% main, and 10% accent for balance.

3. Add Texture & Pattern

I love a pattern and take inspiration from clothing and fashion as well as patterns found in nature. Layering different materials—such as wood, wool, linen, and stone—adds depth and a sense of authenticity. Patterns, whether in wallpaper, cushions, or rugs, bring personality and can reflect the outdoor elements you love.

4. Consider Function & Flow

Think about who uses the space and how. We have a family of Five boys and Four dogs – not to mention the cats and the tortoise so I know that functionality is absolutely key as well as a space looking nice. A family-friendly room needs durable fabrics, storage for everyday life, and a mix of seating for comfort. Arrange furniture to create natural movement through the space.

5. Bring in Personal Touches

The real soul of a room comes from meaningful pieces—handmade ceramics, vintage finds, art from places you love, or fabrics with a story. These details make the space feel like home.