At first glance this trend looks every inch the buttoned-up blueprint of classically inspired interior design. But, look closer... yes, everything about the scheme is grown-up and understated, but there's also a humorous undercurrent that keeps it fresh and modern.
Colours are the dulled-off metallic hues of bronze, soft gold, pewter and copper. Richer caramel, fudge and butterscotch shades predominate over cooler taupe, blue, grey and charcoal - ensuring the mood is as warm as the humour.
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The colour experts at Dulux have identified a refined new trend within home decor for the year ahead. A key feature is the interplay of warm colours, such as Exotic Spice 3, with cooler shade, like Steel Symphony 4.
Rebelling against the excesses of recent years, this look - though discreet - has a twist. high quality furnishings and the subtle colour palette are kept edgy thanks to a mischievious wink aimed squarely in the face of sobriety.
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Many of us have furniture which no longer fits with the new look we want to create for our homes. By giving this tired sideboard a Paul Smith-style makeover we've created a striking focal point in the room, and a lovely finishing touch - and stop the look becoming too masculine.
Create a cheeky twist on classic styling with accessories such as these Fornasetti cushions, or this rug with fleur-de-lis style motifs. Playing with scale will give you the satirical take on classic design that you want to achieve, so look out for oversized pieces such as lamps and vases, and fabrics with giant classical imagery. Something like Timorous Beasties' London Toile fabric would also work beautifully.
Trompe-l'oeil techniques quite literally trick the eye and provide a great talking point. This eye-catching mirror is sketched to create the effect of ornate moulding, and provides a more contemporary alternative to the real thing.
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