THINGS DESIGNERS KNOW: ADDING ACCENT COLOURS

Designer Sarah Ward, of Ward & Co Interiors, shares her expert advice on adding accent colour and pattern to a relaxed country interior.

- HOLLY REANEY

The country look is a precise one typically based on natural materials and a soft or neutral colour palette. This doesn't mean, however, that it needs to be bland and devoid of character. Interior designer Sarah Ward talks us through how to add accent colours to a country interior.

START WITH THE BARE BONES

'Look at the natural light, ceiling height, room function and access. Next, decide on the best furniture layout options and whether feature or discreet lighting should be used. After that, you can think about a scheme, starting with floors, the main accent fabrics or important artwork and then layer it up!' 

GO WITH YOUR GUT