Bold patterns, tactile textures and a modern monochrome colour scheme are key to the quirky and characterful new look that we're calling 'Urban Eclectic'. Suitable for houses and apartments of any age, it's a smart – in all senses of the word – decorating approach that can be layered up over time. Its neutral backdrop also means there's no danger of it dating.
Start with a couple of large pieces in furniture – ideally in tones of grey or black – and then add a flourish with metallic accessories, and cushions and throws in chunky knits and faux fur. The results are surprisingly cosy and inviting... and the height of sophistication, obvs!
See this look in action: Look around this cool and classic Victorian semi in Northamptonshire
We've found buys at both ends of the price spectrum – can you tell which is which?
The mirror
Bring sunshine to the darkest of rooms with a sunburst mirror featuring a classy gilded finish. You could easily coordinate this with a lamp base on a sideboard, tray on a coffee table or candle holders on a mantelpiece.
Buy now
Ideal: We Need Sun wall mirror, £186.99, Wayfair
Great deal: Round mirror, £24.99, H&M Home
The cabinet
Tackling everyday clutter is key to this look. A tall cabinet can hold any or all of your bits and bobs, from work files to kitchenware.
Buy now
Ideal: Indira cabinet, £1,100, Out There Interiors
Great deal: Hemnes cabinet in Black-brown, £195, Ikea
The cushion
A fringe-wool cushion is all it takes to bring an armchair, sofa or bed up to date – and is exactly what you'll want to snuggle up to of an evening.
Buy now
Ideal: Fringe cushion, £40, Monsoon Home
Great deal: Textured-weave cushion cover, £19.99, H&M
Related: Ideal v Great Deal – get a rustic Scandi look for less
The armchair
The three-piece suite is so over – comfy seating these days is all about mismatched sofas and chairs that can be easily rearranged around the house as your needs change.
Buy now
Ideal: Buttoned charcoal deep armchair, £735, The French Bedroom Company
Great deal: Laterna lounge armchair in Light Grey, £199.99, My Furniture
The lamp
Give a scheme a feminine twist that won't put the boys off with a copper-tinged table lamp.
Buy now
Ideal: Grey table lamp with marble base, £68, Oliver Bonas
Great deal: Ideal Home Mason Marble & Copper Task Lamp, £33, Very
One more to tempt you: Ideal v Great Deal – spend or save on a Scandi Country look
So, are you going to go all out, save all you can, or meet somewhere in the middle?
-
What to do with daffodils after flowering to ensure even bigger and brighter blooms next yearOne wrong move could stunt next year’s growth
-
This genius built-in wardrobe has instantly doubled the available space in this bedroomSometimes all you need is a piece of furniture to change everything
-
How much does a porch cost? A breakdown of what you can expect to payWe've put together a general ballpark of costs with all the factors that will influence the final price of building a porch
