INDIA’S HOUSE RULES

Be mindful of your mix

Stick to objects and furniture from no more than three different decades – this simple tip is virtually infallible. ‘I’m also a fan of mix’n’match tableware and collect stylish plates, salad bowls and glasses on my travels.’

Start with a sofa

Sofas are the eyebrows of a room. Big sofas can make small rooms seem bigger, while several small sofas will liven up a large room and give it a warm, friendly feel. ‘Nothing beats a pair of sofas face to face: they add visual structure to a space.’

Always include a mix of lighting

Avoid big central chandeliers or ceiling lamps in a hallway – and everywhere else, in fact. ‘Ceiling suspensions should be in corners, if they hang at all. A large floor lamp is the perfect alternative.’ Use a variety of lighting in each room (ie, floor, table, hanging lamps) and distribute them throughout the space. ‘Seven light sources are ideal for a 30m2 room, and five for a 20m2 room. Beige and rose-pink shades create a soft, powdery light that’s flattering to skin.’

Remember that opposites attract

A balance of elements creates harmony. ‘Experiment with a Prouvé table (masculine) in a salmon pink space (feminine).’ Avoid a strict 50/50 mix and ensure one gender dominates. ‘Combine masculine materials with feminine shapes or vice versa, for instance add floral scatter cushions to a chevron-patterned sofa.’

Play with pattern

Stick to a colour palette

or keep a consistent scale for patterns and motifs. ‘If you’re worried about sparking a style riot, calm things down with a strong plain colour, say an armchair covered in cotton velvet, or pick a unifying colour scheme – the best way to avoid any glaring faux pas.’

Choose organic forms

These are far more original and eye-catching than, say, a plain square table and the best way to avoid a bland, personality-free look. ‘Visually speaking, shape is more important than quality.’

Understand shapes

Yellow ochre, pistachio green, blue and orange are risk-free options for sofas and seating, while neutral tones (white, off-white) work best for tables and shelving. ‘Like shape, colour is visually more important than quality when it comes to furniture and objects.’

Invest in a rug

A rug softens floor surfaces, defines a space, muffles sound and makes a room softer underfoot. ‘I love rugs that contribute a strong, graphic note – such as stripes or zebra motifs. I like placing one over the other for a striking play of patterns.’ A circular rug is a soothing presence and works well in a small space. But it’s worth thinking big and covering the entire room, leaving a maximum of 20cm all around.