The power of paint to transform a space from uninspiring to uplifting is undeniable, and whilst choosing colours for your home can be exciting, it can also be more than a little daunting. As a colour consultant, one of the things I love most about what I do is the social aspect; both getting to meet new people and catching up with familiar faces along the way. From chatting about a few ideas to seeing the final transformation of a room, my goal is to create spaces that stand the test of time. I want clients to walk into their homes years from now and still feel that little thrill of excitement, that deep sense of belonging.

Whether you are embarking on a decorating project with the help of a professional or going solo, lighting plays a critical role when it comes to colour choices. Whether a room is flooded with natural sunlight streaming through the windows during the day or softly bathed in the warm glow of lamps by night, understanding how light plays with colour is essential. It’s all about creating a space that feels just right, no matter the time of day.

As well as considering light and the style of a property, the success of any scheme is rooted in understanding the lifestyle and personality of each client. It’s about delving deep into peoples’ preferences and aspirations to capture the essence of who they are, and then translating it into a palette that they really connect with. It’s not just about picking paint; it’s about creating spaces that feel like a true reflection of their personality.

Before an initial meeting, I always ask people to jot down any ideas and inspirations, perhaps gather together images or samples that they may have. Whether it’s just a few favourite colours circled on a paint chart or a full-blown mood board, it helps to have a starting point when it comes to finding the perfect colour scheme. Customers often appear in the shop laden with curtains and cushions, tiles, even kitchen cupboard doors.

One of my most memorable jobs was with a lovely lady who arrived at our meeting bearing a basket. Inside, there were pieces of studio pottery, driftwood, a favourite mug, and a handful of pebbles. She had told me that she needed help with choosing colours because she had no idea what she wanted. Whilst the items she’d brought weren’t necessarily what you might think of when beginning a decorating project, all the objects were beautifully tactile and gave a really strong, tangible impression of the tones and textures that she preferred, providing a perfect springboard for her colour schemes. The journey of choosing colours is as much about self-discovery as it is about design. It’s about finding out what resonates with you on a personal level and translating that into your home.