This one’s for you, bowerbirds

After looking at hundreds of homes over the past five years, it seems to me that we all fit into one of two categories: 1. I LOVE COLOUR! (in which case, carry on, stay smug); 2. Eek! I like colour, but it’s not for me (I’m with you, sisters). This issue firmly focuses on finding ways to live in the grey area (literally), offering up palette options for those who’d like to change camps but may not have the colour confidence.

Don’t panic, we’ll take things gently. It doesn’t have to be scary. It may be about embracing the bowerbird within, choosing a colour that you just really like and displaying it in the form of an accessory (see page 52). Or if you’re looking for a softer entry level, look to page 78 where you’ll find our cover home. It shows how easily you can take it up or down a notch just with the addition or removal of stools, rugs and feature furniture pieces. (For next-level fun, check out the houseboat on page 106. Could you live in it? I’d like to give it a try.)

In other news, I’d like us all to hold hands and face one of the bigger issues in interiors: commitment. Yes, many of us are scared to commit to… dining chairs. We know they’re a big purchase, and we’d like to think we’re brave enough to choose investment pieces we’ll have for a long time – but can’t help lusting after others. As someone still procrastinating (hello Gumtree spindle-back chairs), I found David Harrison’s round-up on page 130 very helpful. I’m still hesitant to take the plunge, but at least I’m only cheating on 10 chairs these days. Maybe 11 – I’m taking things one day at a time. The first step is admitting you have a problem. PS. Follow me on Instagram at @clairebradley_ed