Furnishing your home doesn't mean you have to overload it with lots of different things. I think we can get caught up with the latest trends we see from our favourite designers, social media and shopping. The key is to keep is simple and just buy the things that you need and how it represents you and your home.

This also helps with the issue of the dreaded word... clutter! Now this brings me to the topic of shelves and bookcases! I love adding them into my designs, they really do make a room. There is also something pleasing about walking into a room with a bookcase, displaying lots of books and other possessions. Everything has been organised in a neat and orderly fashion. If you have an empty wall, then adding shelves really does lift the space. You don't have to add books; artwork, plants and ornaments can be lovingly displayed on shelves. I personally love to add artwork; the colours from art can just bring everything together. Try painting your shelves in a bold or contrasting colour to the rest of the room. I find this has more of an impact on a freestanding or built in bookcase.

Look out for the next blog...

'Lighting your Home'