Design ideas: back to black

Fabrics with a solid backgrounds, as shown here, accentuate bright colours and ensure that patterns of different scales sit together effortlessly.

For a gorgeous range of cushions and fabrics with bold designs on dark backgrounds, try Nina Campbell at Osborne & Little, as well as Harlequin, Romo, Villa Nova, GP&J Baker and Celia Birtwell.

1/6 Mix patterns effortlessly

2/6 Hang dramatic prints

Smoky pink walls highlight dramatic vintage-style botanical prints, while vivid cushions lighten up a dark sofa.

Find the Signature sofa at George Smith. The walls are in Rose Bay by Fired Earth, find these botanical charts at WhippetGrey.

3/6 Frame windows with pattern

Vibrant floral print curtains set the tone for the rest of this scheme where glassware and seat cushions are drawn from the same palette, creating an informal mood for dining.

Find this dining table and chairs at The Conran Shop, and the Rhubarb curtain fabric at Skandium.

4/6 Play with panelling

Panelling can be used in an inventive way to display black patterned wallpapers of varying scale for a strong and distinctive look that would work perfectly in a study.

The 59th Street armchair is from The Conran Shop. For gorgeous wallpapers like these, we recommend Colefax & Fowler, GP&J Baker, Nina Campbell at Osborne & Little, Schumacher at Turnell & Gigon, Little Greene and Sanderson.

5/6 Choose black in the bedroom

Black may be an unusual choice for bedroom details but, used in contrast with bold pattern and luxurious silk embroidery, it creates a sophisticated feminine look.

Find the Cloth bed and double mattress at The Sleep Room. The bedspread is in Farfalla silk mix by Nina Campbell at Osborne & Little.

6/6 Create a bathroom feature wall

A lily-of-the-valley motif wallpaper introduces a fresh woodland feel and marries well with monotone flooring and pristine white bathroom fittings.

The Victorian basin, Savoy pedestal and mixer are all from Bathstore. The Liljekonvalj wallpaper is by Sandberg at Little Greene.

Love classic decorating ideas? Flick through Homes & Gardens' inspiring design galleries on coastal living and decorating with blue and white.