Add special touch

It’s not always what’s on the inside that counts. Luke Rix-standing reveals easy ways to show your love through decoration

L ove can, of course, be shown with just a look, a touch or a few words... but woe betide you if you don’t pull out all the stops on Valentine’s Day!

Face it, even the most unromantic soul will appreciate a small gesture that marks the event and shows you care – and if you’re courting, wooing or planning to propose, setting the scene is key.

So show your home some love with flirty, fun or downright romantic touches that could reveal your feelings, celebrate what you share, or simply make rooms more love-ly! Here are our top picks...

PICK AN EVER-LASTING BOUQUET

A bouquet of roses is a classic Valentine’s gift but those blooms soon wilt. Instead, spoil a wall with a roseprint wallpaper – digital techniques are now so good, they look freshly-picked – which will transform a bedroom into a feminine, sensual boudoir.

FLIRT WITH FUN DETAILS

Keep it subtle and follow a soft pink theme – rather than full-on red – and use just a few pretty accessories to show you care. They’ll be perfect for that Insta-moment too!

SERVE UP SWEET SOMETHINGS

Avoid PDAS (public displays of affection) by creating the perfect setting for that romantic meal at home.

Follow a hearts and roses theme, with a red table runner, heart scatter, and napkin tied with ribbon, adorned with a single rose.

MAKE A LOVING STATEMENT

Inject colour and passion into a room, with saucy accessories that could signal your intentions.

ROMANCE THE ROOM

The colour red is traditionally associated with feelings of love, passion and desire, and a dramatic red roses backdrop will leave a partner in no doubt about your feelings.

A garland or a balloon (follow the “less is more” rule here) could be just enough to set a heart fluttering.

SHINE A LOVING LIGHT

If all those hearts and flowers make you cringe, make a witty, playful statement with funky, quirky accessories instead. Neon’s bang on trend, and a Neon Heart Light or ‘Hello Gorgeous’ Neon Palm Print (£36.95, unframed) from Audenza, could be just the thing to float your rebellious decor boat.

LOOK OUT FOR LOVE

Turn away from the predictable and keep it subtle with monochrome. A window blind design that celebrates hearts could ensure a romantic outlook throughout the year.

SPELL OUT YOUR DESIRE

If long declarations of love aren’t your style, keep it short and sweet with a few accessories that tell all.

TOAST YOUR LOVE

Special occasions require a toast. Do it in style, with beautiful glasses that could become treasured mementos.

LET IT GLOW

Candlelight’s not the only ingredient for an intimate setting. A string of heart-shaped lights, hung in a hallway or arranged on a mantel, could be a surprising but effective touch.

TEMPT WITH A TREAT

Breakfast in bed will be extra special if it’s served on a tray with Valentinethemed tableware.