A profusion of patterns in chalky, faded colours will conjure up the feel of a Provençal salon. Team painted furniture with crisp linens and introduce French-style soft furnishings, such as bolster cushions, quilted throws and layered tablecloths

HOW TO MAKE IT WORK
Opt for a palette of bleached, washed-out colours reminiscent of the south of France – think of the soft blues of old painted wooden shutters and the natural stone hues of French farmhouses.
• A pretty painted console behind a sofa divides your living space into distinct relaxing and dining areas for that French salon feel.
• Fill a capacious glazed cabinet with chunky rustic ceramics and dress your sofa with bolster cushions and a quilted throw.
• Use coolie lampshades, which are typically French, and set them at varying levels around the room to help draw in the eye.

Palazzo sofa, Ma Maison. Antique cast-iron side table, Hilary Batstone. Armoire, Oka. Avington armchair, Sean Cooper. Instant table, Dormy House. Curtains in Amazonas NCF3740/03, linen mix, 140 cm wide, Nina Campbell at Osborne & Little.