I would be the first to admit, and I've reiterated many times, although I'm an artist, when it comes to my home, I have a limited use of colour and pattern. However, in this home the designers have enlivened spaces with contrasting patterns and the addition of colour. In saying this it has been cleverly done so that this home still retains a traditional feel.

A home void of colour and pattern lacks soul, the exception being a white interior where the designer may use neutral patterns and many different textures to bring it to life.  However, this post is about colour and pattern and the easiest way to learn about this is to examine a designers project such as this beautiful home by Burnham Design.

Above: The background is neutral but enlivened by bold blue curtains. The colour has likely been drawn from the rug and introduced into the cushions and curtains. The designers have mixed up patterns in the cushions and introduced a little red with the Aztec cushion to the left. Why does this work, because they have kept the tones of blue similar throughout and not introduced too many colours.Above: This space has been enlivened with art. A plant adds varied tones and the cushion pattern.Above: The shelving mixes blues and natural tones by the clever placement of book spines. A book shelf is a great way to add interest and colour with accent pieces. Use pieces you love and work with them, don't go out and buy curated pieces.Above: This is a space where colour has bee...