Decorating with subtle swirl carpet

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• Decorating with subtle swirl carpet
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Use a subtly textured carpet to add depth to a calming, neutral scheme. Stick to a toning palette of taupe, beige and ivory. But add around 10% of vivid colour as an accent to up the 'wow' factor. 

Decorator's tip: Create a pretty work space

Whether it’s a dedicated office, somewhere to catch up with household bills or just searching online, work spaces can be both pretty and practical, with our stylist’s tips

Pick a calming scheme Bright colours can be overpowering in a small room (where home offices often are found). Naturals – soft cream, taupe and pale grey – with just a hint of an accent colour for interest, are all good choices for paint shades.

Functional can look good Buy disguised storage pieces, like The Dormy House’s upholstered ottoman, which comes complete with hanging files, or cutomise a plain bookshelf with offcuts of patterned wallpapers for a vintage feel.

Choose elegant furniture Think more lady’s writing desk than city banker. If you’ve space, include an armchair, which will add a softer feel to your office. Go for a subtly patterned one, to keep the scheme soft.

Use the walls Pin up inspiring pictures, photographs and must-do notes. Cover your board with fabric if it’s too beige/brown!

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