How to decorate like a stylist

There are simple tricks interiors stylists use to create beautiful spaces. Learn them, and you'll take your own room schemes and accessorising to a whole new level...

Frame a feature wallpaper
Create a giant piece of artwork by wallpapering a section of wall and framing it with wooden beading - it's a great way to define your sofa or highlight the area behind a bed.

Lucerne wallpaper, Harlequin. Iggy sofa, Sofa.com

Use repetition
A series of identical items can have as much impact as one ‘wow' statement piece. Create your own photo gallery by enlarging holiday snaps, putting them in matching frames and hanging them three in a row.

Framed prints, Photobox. DAR Eiffel chairs, Blue Sun Tree.

Stick to one colour
If you lack colour confidence, pick one shade and use different tones for a layered look. Blue works well with this technique, as different hues rarely clash and will create a calming feel. Throw in pattern to add detail.

Framed prints, Photobox. DAR Eiffel chairs, Blue Sun Tree.

Stick to one colour
If you lack colour confidence, pick one shade and use different tones for a layered look. Blue works well with this technique, as different hues rarely clash and will create a calming feel. Throw in pattern to add detail.

Walls painted in Parma Gray Estate emulsion, Farrow & Ball. Regal headboard, The Dormy House.

Decorate with storage
Box shelves aren't just for storage, they're also a great way to turn an alcove, corner or even an entire wall into a feature. Paint them the same colour as your wall for a seamless look and to let your treasures stand out.

For similar units, try The Dormy House. Walls and shelving painted in Ball Green Estate emulsion, Farrow & Ball.

Boost your assets
Draw attention to your home's architectural features, such as fireplaces, deep skirting boards, ornate cornicing and attractive door frames, by painting them in a colour rather than the usual white gloss. This soft pastel pink looks sophisticated with grey walls.

Walls painted in Elephant's Breath Estate emulsion, Farrow & Ball. Tulip table, Blue Sun Tree.

The power of three
Arranging accessories in odd-numbered groupings is more pleasing to the eye than even - for example, three pictures in a row, or three vases of differing heights. This rule also works with furniture groupings too - think an armchair, a floor lamp and a side table.

Boards covered in Banbury Plumbago 91/7029 wallpaper, Cole & Son. Walls painted in Turkish Blue matt emulsion, Colour by Kevin McCloud, Fired Earth.

Create a focalpoint
Fill a bare wall or empty space that doesn't have much else going on with an oversized piece of artwork, like this wall-sticker clock. Perfect for a blank space, such as over a sofa or bed, or above a sideboard, make sure your artwork fits the space without any overhang for the most striking effect.

Speedway clock, Brume. Walls painted in Borowed Light Estate emulsion, Farrow & Ball.

Use pattern for impact
Add carefully chosen pattern to a room and it'll lift the whole look. To make it the star in a bedroom, choose a statement print to revamp a tired headboard and turn it into a feature with a simple loose cover that ties at the sides.

Headboard cover, The Dormy House. Cover made in Berry Tree 120051 fabric, Scion.

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