Colour schemes - Part two

30 November -0001

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Once you've chosen your colours its important to know how to use them. saying paint these walls this colour and these walls this colour is all very well, but what if you don't wanp plain walls?

Large and busy patterns tend to draw in walls and make big rooms seem cosy, but they will overwhelm a small space. Similarly, tiny or subdued patterns will make the most of small rooms, but get lost in a large one.

Pattern can also create optical illusions and because of its ability to trick the eye, it can be a useful decorating tool if the features of a room aren't pleasing.

Regular patterns will highlight walls that are out-of-true and uneven walls can make pattern matching very difficult, so choose a wallcovering design with care.

Florals don't allow the eye to fix on any one point, so they are wonderful for irregular walls and for softening awkward angles or disguising an unattractive feature.

Dainty floral sprigs are perfect for small rooms, narrow hallways and cloakrooms, whereas big florals are best shown off in large or high-ceilinged rooms, and in bedrooms with co-ordinating fabrics.

Stripes suit almost any style or size or room. Classic stripes in contrasting colours are a good choice for smart daytime rooms and hallways, whereas stylised stripes are more informal and very versatile. Stripes are also useful for altering the proportions of a room. Horizontal stripes seem to push out walls in a small room, and will make a low ceiling appear higher when used vertically.

Trimming wallpaper around doors, windows or cupboards can ruin the look of a large pattern. Stripes and small designs will be a better choice, and more economical on the number of rolls needed.

Checks range from smart tartans to informal ginghams, and are as versatile as stripes but look busier, so they work best in simple colour schemes where the pattern can be fully appreciated. Checks are also useful for drawing in far-away walls and softening harsh edges.

Geometrics are neat and restful, and make walls seem to recede, so they create the perfect backdrop to a busy or cluttered room, or pictures and memorabilia that you want to display.

If you have chosen a stimulating colour scheme, be sparing with pattern on furnishing and accessories. Busy patterns will simply compete for attention.

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