WHY WE LOVE COLOUR

Known for embracing the bold, these experts share their passion for interiors with impact

Jane Rockett and Lucy St George

Best friends and cofounders of the inspired luxe homeware emporium Rockett St George, Jane Rockett (left) and Lucy St George, talk about how colour transforms our homes and mood…

When did you first start playing with colour?

LUCY I worked for many years as a florist and that was a great introduction to colour and trends. You can create emotions and romanticism in a plain room just by adding floral arrangements and lighting.

JANE When I was very young my mum let me decorate my bedroom however I wanted. I painted a Ziggy Stardust lightning bolt on the wall – so I always had that sense of freedom.

What does colour do for you?

LUCY I dress my home as I dress myself, often going for darker shades because they make me feel more comfortable, but I also like metallics, or a burst of red or pink. A dark background lets everything else shine.

How does colour affect our moods? LUCY There are scientific and emotional sides to the colour spectrum, as we learned when researching our book

Extraordinary Interiors In Colour. Red, for example, is romantic and angry. Use it carefully – and, I’d say, not in a bedroom! JANE Yellow is invigorating and promotes happiness. It doesn’t have to be sunshine bright; there are grown-up shades – gold, amber – that evoke the same feelings.

Are we braver with colour these days? JANE Yes. The drinks-trolley trend has encouraged people to be daring and make their homes glamorous, happy places.

What do you wish you’d known years ago? LUCY Your home is where you can be you. The colours should be about your tastes, or it’s a bit like putting on somebody else’s dress: you like it on them, but you know it won’t suit you.

JANE Be brave. Don’t hesitate. Just go for it, be bold – it’s just fun, after all.

For luxe interiors shopping ideas, go to rockettstgeorge.co.uk. Extraordinary Interiors In Colour (£19.99, Ryland Peters & Small)