Revive Nineties pine with chalky paint shades

If you're as guilty as we are for hanging on to your pine bedroom furniture from the Nineties, then we think it's high time to make a change. Two decades ago it was just the thing, but now we find it has all turned a rather dark shade of orange. Don't despair. For a scheme that's a touch more elegant and easy on the eye, why not reach for your brushes and soft, pastel shades of paint? This chest of drawers was coated in Bone China Blue Mid Intelligent Eggshell, from Little Greene. And the beautiful grey-blue shade was the starting point for this gorgeous bedroom makeover.

Throws, cushions and bed linen continue the classic, Provencal style of the bedroom, with a wrought-iron bed taking centre stage. The curtain fabric - Athyrium by Scion - with its painterly fern fronds in chalky blues and greys brings in subtle pattern, while a French bergere-style chair, with a cane seat and suitably distressed frame, sits perfectly in the scheme. The walls are painted in French Grey Pale and the floorboards in Slaked Lime Floor paint; both by Little Greene. This gorgeous knitted throw is Vita by John Lewis.

For a really relaxed style, avoid co-ordinating absolutely everything in your scheme. This pretty pine cabinet (a junk shop find) has been painted in a mid blue - try Annie Sloan's Provence Chalk Paint for a similar shade. The beauty of Annie's paint is that you don't have to use a primer, so you can tackle your garish old-fashioned pine pieces in double quick time. Try painting the inside of your cupboards and drawers too, for an unexpected splash of contrasting colour.

Another glass-fronted cabinet has been given the shabby-chic treatment for a charming feel. Gentle distressing around the corners and on various plains creates a naturally aged look, revealing the colour of the wood and paint beneath. This cupboard is perfect for neatly folded linen and towels - and for displaying pretty accessories. For a similar colour, experiment with Paris Grey by Annie Sloan.

Bed linen in a bleached-denim shade is perfect for this bedroom, and the subtle shade is pepped up with a variety of cushions, from bright mustard styles to fluffy and ticking-striped designs. For a similar duvet cover try John Lewis's Blue Chambray range; the delicate Harper bedside lamp also comes from John Lewis. And look out for smart Oslo Stripe cushion covers at Dunelm.