Colour to me, is the most important thing to decide on.

I love seeing strong and confident colour choices in other peoples homes but when it comes to living with it, I want to hope I’m not going to tire of it.

It is very tempting to opt for ‘of the moment’ colours. They may even feel like the safer option when you’re seeing them shown so often on line and in magazines. I think the safer approach is to go for a colour you know you love seeing; one which will immediately ‘fit’ with other furniture in your home.

If you have a leaning towards bright colours, remember it may be worth choosing your cabinet colour from a palette that fits well with your favourite brights rather than committing to seeing it in the ‘permanency’ of your cabinet.

Beautiful looks, that are easy to alter and develop can be made through bold accessories such as wallpaper, plants, pictures, flowers and even textures.

Thought also needs to be given to the extent of natural light you have. If you need the lights on in the room in question on a dreary day, you should probably avoid dark colours. Similarly, if the summer sun makes you squint, steer clear of light colours which will feel washed out.

Try to avoid making a choice based on a small colour chart. I always buy sample pots and paint large pieces of lining paper which I then Blutack in various places and at various times of day and night. It amazes me how the same colour can look completely different depending on the light.

Quality cabinets are going to last for a long time and whilst it is possible to repaint them after a few years, this is a costly business, and the finish is seldom as good or permanent.

If you need help choosing, I can visit your home to discuss ideas and options with you.

Marina Collyer

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