Embracing Colour // Be Bold by Emily Henson

Before you think I’ve gone mad let me explain.  I know I am normally drawn to subtle greys and monochrome tones but if you scratch the surface you will find that I do love being bold.  My home may not be bright orange, pink and green like the cover of this fabulous book but I think I’ve made some bold choices, such as dark blue walls, funky patterned rugs and cushions and a black ceiling in my bathroom.  Being bold doesn’t necessarily mean bright and this book shows this off to perfection.

It is definitely a matter of perception, I absolutely love this book for its individuality of the homes featured, the home owners are not afraid of making a statement be it through vivid paint or boldness that lies in the details, patterned wall papers and creative layering of accessories.

Emily Henson is one of my favourite stylists and I do own a few of her previous books but I do think this one, along with Modern Rustic, is my favourite.   Be Bold is about embracing this free spirited look and shows us how to translate it to any home, you just have to take that leap of faith. Like the title implies interiors for the brave of heart.

The first section of the book goes into detail with easy ideas to recreate some of the looks in your own home, the second half discovers homes with adventurous, spirited styling that will inspire you to decorate with confidence.  These interiors are for those who love colour and pattern or for those who want to give it a go but are a little scared of the results.  These homes will definitely make you embrace the notion that the bright pink paint you love will make your hallway sing, or those tiles you have your eye on can not only go on the floor but up the wall too, break the rules and have fun!

Of course I am drawn to the homes featured that have more muted tones, the deep rich blues, the blacks and the greens with added accents of a geometric print or rug.  One of my favourites is interior designer Anne Geistdoerfer’s Parisian town house for its rich hues and clever designs.  Also the elegant apartment of Theo-Bert Pot and Jelle van de Schoor in the Hague, eclectic with a sophisticated mix of accessories.

It has opened my eyes again to the possibility that not everything has to be painted white, my next decorating project is my hallway and landing and my mind is a whir filled with colour, I’m taking inspiration from the pages of this book so watch this space!

Another perfect book to go on your Christmas list for sure, you can get a copy here from Ryland Peters & Small it will make a stunning addition to your interior book collection plus will never let you reach for the white paint again when inspiration has faded, its just the boost needed to get creative.

Jx

• with thanks to Ryland Peters & Small for gifting the book and the Emily Henson for writing it and photographer Catherine Gratwicke for the stunning images