Sarah Keady

Clients and friends often ask me where to start when choosing paint, and they’re surprised when I say: not with the 13 different colour charts you’re waving in front of me. There’s so much choice out there, it’s mind-blowing. Choosing the right paint for your home is down to far more than aesthetics. “Colour confidence” isn’t about getting the rules right or following trends: it’s about how something makes you feel.

1 Keep it cosy Layers of sheepskin, bouclé and soft wool create an inviting space to hunker down with a good book. Midcentury modernism doesn't always scream cosy so be sure to introduce textures that soften the look. A throw or a large rug can do this beautifully. Pictured: &Tradition Wulff ATD2 sheepskin lounge chair, Holloways of Ludlow. Brushed Bouclé throw in Olive; aluminium Gold vase, both Dunelm. Curvone Sage Green rug, Barker and Stonehouse.

Vases, from a selection, M&S x Kelly Hoppen A crisp and modern monochrome palette had to take centre stage in my edit this week, as it's my current go-to combo. Although this pairing is old-hat among seasoned designers, it can also feel incredibly fresh – effortlessly cool, clean, and above all else, timeless. Whether styled boldly or with softer contrasts, black and white is a seasonless staple that brings instant polish to a room scheme.