Decorating with souvenirs

• Decorating with souvenirs
• Add heat with colour
• Mix statement textiles
• Soften the sleek
• A new way with saris
• Strength in numbers
• Make an unusual headboard

One of the great pleasures of travelling is the chance to browse in local markets, barter with stall holders and return home with a suitcase full of beautiful treasures. For the less adventurous, ethnic shops and the internet mean you don't even need a passport to access some gorgeous global-inspired pieces.

Apart from the memories they evoke, it's often the bold colours and striking patterns that are so appealing. And while jewel-bright Indian sari fabrics or flat-weave Persian rugs are at their most dazzling under tropical skies, a hint of ethnic accessorising can provide just the vibrant jolt needed to lift a more temperate scheme.

Remember, you're not trying to recreate a stage-set souk. The trick is to find ways to incorporate global buys into a contemporary room by combining exotic accessories with glossy, modern pieces to create an original and inspiring look. We've chosen six styles to demonstrate how to make the most of those little pieces you pick up, once the holiday's over...

Chosen by House to home