Create a warm welcome

Take inspiration from Thomas Sanderson’s collaboration in colour with Harlequin for an interior that exudes comfort and style

From the influence that colour can have on our mood to the reassuringly tactile qualities of textural fabrics and natural materials, how we choose to decorate our homes can have a significant effect on us. The right combination of these elements will imbue any room with a sense of warmth, visual interest and intimacy, making it the ideal place to retreat to at the end of the day.

Making a space look luxurious but feel comfortable is easy with the right choice of design and furnishings, explains Michelle Ogundehin, interiors expert and colour ambassador for Harlequin at Thomas Sanderson. Golden shades, for example, can elevate a room in an instant.

“These days, gold is far removed from any connotations of gaudiness; instead, it’s about adding a subtle hint of lustre,” explains Michelle. Try the soft glow of the brushed metals of Moroccan bazaars and Indian emporiums, or the aged patina of antique brass, teamed with earthy fibres such as sisal, bamboo or coir. Experiment with the warm woody tones of walnut and mahogany, adding complementary hints of taupe and blush pink for a look that radiates glamour and modern-day refinement.

Remember, gold shimmers particularly well in silky fabrics, so it makes a great choice for full-length curtains, where the light from the window can enhance the metallic sheen. Alternatively, accessorise a buttery rich leather sofa with cushions in plush golden velvet for a sumptuous touch of elegance.

DRAMATIC NAVY

For a bold statement, dark, inky blue is currently enjoying a revival – and it’s one of Michelle’s favourite shades. “Navy can bring a crisp sense of order to any space,” she says. On the wall, it will add formality, but it can also convey a relaxed, artisan vibe because of its associations with Japanese shibori dyeing and denim. Use this to great effect in your choices for soft furnishings and windows, pairing watercolour and tie-dye-style prints, such as Harlequin at Thomas Sanderson’s Takara curtain in Indigo Denim (right), with sculptural pieces in stone, wood and glass. Finally, add hints of soft neutrals and the palest feminine pink for the ultimate in sophistication. For more information, call 0800 688 8118 or visit thomas-sanderson.co.uk

OPPOSITE A dash of ochre can fill a room with visual warmth. Use this spicy shade to create a dramatic statement with full-length curtains, such as Harlequin at Thomas Sanderson’s velvety Entity Plains in Gold paired with the printed Kelambu in Amber Slate. Accessorise with navy and neutrals.

ELEGANT GOLD

If you’re looking for an understated scheme, gold is ideal, says Michelle. This glimmering hue has long been a favourite in the country home, enhancing dark spaces with a stylish sheen. “You only need a little in full saturation to have an impact,” she advises. For a contemporary take, mix patterns with plains that have similar accents – here (left), Michelle has teamed Harlequin at Thomas Sanderson’s striking botanical print Roman blind, Aucuba in Steel Jet, with a simple full-length curtain, Tanabe in Shell. “To ground the scheme, underpin it with raw materials such as sisal,” she adds. The final touches are metallic accessories – “Burnished brass looks great with gold” – along with pink and cinnamon accents, such as scatter cushions in earthy tones and subtle designs, for maximum interest.

“Navy can bring a crisp sense of order to any space”

Michelle Ogundehin, interior design expert