HIGH ENERGY

Bold brights that make a strong statement

Strong, vibrant shades make a definite statement and can energise a space. However, in period properties or country-style interiors, they can overpower, so finding the right one is critical. Choose tones ‘knocked back’ with a bit of grey or black in their make-up, and use them as a highlight in a measured dose.

These tones work best among more sombre hues. Think about using them in a transitional space, hallway, alcove or on just a section of a wall. Or introduce them on fabrics, a painted piece of furniture, perhaps the inside of a lampshade, as a lining to curtains, the reverse of a quilt or the inside of cupboards or a dresser. Most importantly, use them in areas of your home where they can inspire activity, such as a home office or kitchen, rather than a large room (where they can easily become overbearing) or a space where you need to relax.

VARIED AND VIBRANT In an unorthodox take on using mouldings to break up wall decoration, this room has been painted in a neutral shade all the way up to the picture rail and then a citrus yellow – Yellowcake by Farrow & Ball (farrow-ball.com), which is light enough to keep the room airy – above and onto the ceiling