Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Few homeowners are in a position to decorate from scratch. Mark Winstanley, design manager for Laura Ashley, offers some tips on how to make the new work with the old:

– Stitch up a tablecloth from a festive fabric such as ”Venetia,” which is printed in gold on a burgundy or navy background.

– Think of using fabric as art. An interesting print can be hung on the wall as a panel.

– Get a new lampshade. You can change the mood of the room by using florals, damasks or tartan-pleated shades.

– Underline your curtains for contrast. A windowpane check on the reverse of a floral is a fresh look; turn the drape back so that the underside shows.