Now more than ever before, many of us are making choices based on our own tastes - choosing to surround ourselves with things that bring joy, rather than are ‘trendy’ or ‘in’. Because when your home can become an expression of who you are as a person - it’s much more fun to experiment, showcasing your individuality and creativity! From bold paint colours and murals, to big investment pieces or even the littlest accessory - budding designers and decorators are making fun, unexpected choices we’re dubbing the Playful trend.

So you want to use bold colour in your space, but aren’t sure where to start? Interior designer Sophie Robinson - aka Queen of Colour - shares her top tips for bringing colour into your space, in a way that works for you.

There’s no need to eschew grown-up, elegant decor when opting for a bold colour scheme - but if you’re a little apprehensive about banishing the beige, you can take a more considered approach. When choosing colours, blue is a great starting point, as it makes an excellent backdrop for other colours - but the key is to pick your unique shade. Perhaps you’re more of a classic navy lover? Or maybe a brighter tone is your jam; in which case opt for jazzy cobalt or fresh aqua. If in doubt, pick one bold piece of furniture and build out from there - a bright sofa in your favourite shade always makes a statement, and always feels like a considered choice.

For those who want to go bold, there are fewer ways to create a space full of joy than confidently filling the room with all your favourite colours, shapes and patterns. Clashing colours and prints are ideal for social spaces - using shades opposite one another on the colour wheel adds vibrancy and depth, injecting instant energy. The key to making clashing colours work? It’s all in proportion. Around 60% of your space should be in your main colour, with 30% in an opposing shade, and the final 10% in an accent colour to tie it all together.