Starting out

The prospect of decorating a big space can be quite daunting. Instead of thinking about what suits their tastes or what they plan to use the space for, many people will simply fill their larger rooms with lots of objects; sofas, armchairs, coffee tables, bookshelves and suchlike. This is best avoided, as it prevents the space from being adaptable. If you have a large room which you want to be a functional space as well as a place for tranquillity and relaxation, then it is important to take some questions into consideration:

• What is this room going to be used for? It is advisable to decorate and accessorise a room so that it fits in with the styles or themes you like, as well as suiting its function.
• Do your plans for décor fit with your lifestyle? For example, valuable breakables, sharp corners and light-coloured carpets are not advisable if you have young children or energetic pets!

Soft Furnishings

Remember that cosy means comfortable, and soft furnishings can really enhance your comfort in a large room without too much expense. In a living room, throws for armchairs and sofas, scatter cushions and floor cushions can make the space inviting and perfect for relaxation.

How should you light a large space?

Light is vital in setting the mood of a room. A space which does not receive much natural daylight will be shadowed and dull, making it difficult to indulge in any relaxing activities like reading. Lamps can be used to add a soft glow to your space, and will be a welcome change from overhead lighting, which can often be too stark and artificial. If the room allows it, think about having lamps on different levels – perhaps combining taller stand-alone lamps with table lamps, as this can really add a sense of atmosphere, making your space look warm and inviting. Additional cosy touches can be added with tea lights and scented candles.

The importance of colour

With all the choices available for giving the walls of your room some colour, it can be tempting to go straight for your favourite, or for the standard (and quite boring) magnolia! Thinking carefully about which paints or wallpaper to use is, however, essential in creating the character of a room.

Remember that white, magnolia and beige-based or light walls will reflect natural daylight and thus make spaces look a lot larger than reality. In your large space, you can afford to go for a colour scheme based on much deeper tones, if comfortable, relaxing area is what you're seeking. For your walls, warm reds, dusky oranges and yellows can bring a taste of the Mediterranean. Blue and green are colours most often associated with bathrooms, but they can be equally well used in a bedroom or a living room, as they are reminiscent of calming water. However, if you want to enhance the comfort of your room whilst keeping the expense low, warm notes can be added simply by using a throw, wall-hangings or cushions.