Interior design: Earthy colours lift autumn looks

Rich colours help build an autumn look. Picture: Contributed

So we have polished leather offset by natural hemp, opulent gold teamed with rough hewn stone, bold patterns and natural wood.

As so often is the case, interiors fashions meld with the catwalk and the new tailored, preppy look has crept into upholstery, bedding and window treatments. Pleats are in, as are suiting fabrics, formal patterns and computer-generated prints to offset warm, natural materials and flashes of bright colour.

Softer shades of green and yellow-gold work just as well with the grain of unpolished timbers as they do with the glossy finish of marble or metallics. Tweeds and tartans in muted colours provide a good complement and add warmth. Wood-burning stoves echo the natural look and are becoming ever more popular in living areas.

Upcycled furniture is no longer restricted to shabby chic or Scandinavian style. Reinventing the uses and finishes of old items gives them a bold new presence which lends them a role as statement pieces. Think of a shiny green table surrounded by a selection of old oak chairs upholstered in a bold leaf pattern fabric.

Combine eclectic elements with contrasting textures drawn together by a soft and earthy colour scheme or introduce unexpected finishes of gold to existing décor.

• Pat Elliott is from The Borders Design House. Visit their website for design services, courses and workshops. Start a new career as a Homestyle Advisor or learn to ‘Be Your Own Designer’ with our distance-learning interior design courses (07765 057 409, www.thebordersdesignhouse.co.uk)