ALEXEI COWAN is head of trends at Argos
THE BIG NEW TREND
Combining Japanese and Scandinavian design to keep the look simple, subtle, calm and natural is popular now. This means decluttering and investing in furniture made from blonde-toned wood. The Japanese influence is strong in ceramics, which have unfussy lines and surface decoration inspired by delicate origami folds, embossing and micro-geometric patterns.
PERSONAL FAVOURITE
The Heart of House Fuji bed (above), which combines soft fabric charcoal upholstery with a solid birch frame and a padded headboard featuring stitch detailing down the centre.
TOP TIPS
Always create a moodboard with swatches, colour chips and inspirational pictures to pull your favourite styles and looks together before you buy.
Get your storage sorted. Ditch the plastic boxes in favour of modular wall shelving. Invest in extending tables for entertaining and multifunctional furniture to maximise space.
Gold and brass are becoming fashionable; just one accessory will add a gorgeous touch of luxury and elegance.