Change comes from within

Bland neutrals have finally been given the boot and colour has triumphed, meaning that in 2010 rooms will glow with warmth and character.

Feel free to use beautiful, blooming florals, or add impact with strong blocks of colour mimicking catwalk styles.

Even devotees of cool monochrome schemes should add injections of colour to bring them bang up to date.

Be cool and contemporary with zingy accents of bubblegum pink, citrus yellow and lime or opt for rich, luscious plums and purples and lipstick reds for a glamorous, luxurious look.

Throw caution to the wind and mix elements of different styles, eras, colours and patterns to create a look that works for you.

"Generally, people are more at ease about their taste and this year will be ready and willing to experiment," predicts leading interior designer, Anita Kohn at Living In Space.

"They're going to want to make interior design statements to add 'wow' factor to rooms, with bold wallpaper prints continuing to be a strong and popular trend."

So if you love nature but feel florals are too girly or fussy for your rooms, opt for the more funky 'country chic', which mimics a hunting lodge look.

Make a focal point of a decorative replica of a stag or deer head, and continue the woodland theme with wallpaper .