It is my belief that colour and texture are absolutely essential when it comes to putting your personal stamp on your interior. I am not one of those designers who continually pour out 'pleasant' grey and taupe interiors; interiors that are copycat versions of the one before; interiors that are cold and soulless. I believe that every interior should be a reflection of the individual. Each and every exclusive interior should be a gateway into the soul; a space that passionately 'shouts out loud' about who that person is, and what that person loves.

I often compare dressing yourself to dressing your home. This seems a far less daunting prospect when it comes to experimenting with new looks, and trying things that you've never tried before. Most of us don't think twice about stepping outside of our comfort zone when it comes to trying a new fashion look, and the same should go for our interiors. Some things you'll love, and some things you'll hate; and that's a good thing.

Home and Garden on Female First

Home and Garden on Female First

It is this essential process of trial and error that will not only build your confidence, but will eventually lead you to your original style. How often have you tried something on and been pleasantly surprised by how much you love it and how good it makes you feel? It is this open-mindedness that needs to be taken on board when designing your interior.

I encourage all my clients to let down their guard and follow their instinct when it comes to colour and texture. It is simple questions such as 'What colours am I naturally drawn to?' that go a long way in discovering your own individual style. If this still seems a difficult concept to envisage; then take a look at your wardrobe. Make a mental note of which items of clothing you love and why. Is it the colour; the pattern; the texture; or how it makes you feel that you love?

I will often take my clients to art galleries or wallpaper stockists to see which colours, genres and styles they are naturally drawn to. This is another great way of gathering inspiration, creating a mental scrapbook of your favourite colours, textures and styles.

Here are my 5 top tips on how to make your interior reflect your individual style and personality:

1. Surround yourself with items that you love and make you happy. Maybe it's a family heirloom that brings back childhood memories, or a jar full of your favourite sweets.

Perhaps like me, it's your collection of shoes! I have numerous bell jars full of my favourite shoes around the house, which in my eyes, are stunning pieces of art and reflect my personal style.

2. Add your own sense of humour to your interior where possible. Perhaps it's a quote on the wall that makes you smile, or simply a quirky coat hook.
3. Invest in a piece of artwork. Nothing shouts more about your personality that the art that hangs on your wall. It needn't be expensive, a print or a piece by an art student will have the same impact as an investment piece when it comes to making a statement.
4. Photos in frames are essential when it comes to making a house a home. Photos of loved ones and happy times will instantly fill you with joy. Perhaps pick out frames in colours that you like and display them in a quirky way to make a design statement.
5. Add accessories to your scheme such as cushions or candles. Go for colours, patterns and textures that you are naturally drawn to, as these will create an environment that makes you happy and content.

Perhaps pull out the colours from the piece of artwork that you've chosen. Use these as your accent colours to create and harmonious and balanced interior that reflects your personal style.

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By Anouska Lancaster

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