A bit of lemon aid can add zest to your home

Recently I've been working flat out getting ready for the autumn catalogue. It's been hard work and at times I've been dead on my feet and craving more than a strong coffee to keep me going. But they do say when life throws you lemons you should make lemonade...or the version I prefer when life throws you lemons you should make a gin and tonic!

But we'll not digress into my drinking habits at present. However, they, whomever they might be, may just be on to something. I know that lemon interiors won't be high on the popularity list, in fact, I bet you're even turning your face slightly as though you were chewing on one just by reading this. But bear with me and I think I can change your mind. Perhaps it is because when you think of a yellow interior it conjures up images of hospital waiting rooms that are trying to be cheerful or because it's a colour favoured by your elderly relatives.

But it's time to think again, open your mind to the possibilities. Think of a bright sunshine yellow teamed with brilliant white and I'll bet you instantly feel a little happier and a little more energetic.

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Even just one yellow wall or one yellow piece of furniture can bring the sunshine into your room even when it's chilly outside.

With such a colour you don't want to be timid. If you're going to go yellow then go brave. As I said earlier, it looks great teamed with bright white, walnut furniture and vivid green highlights. A word to the wise, this is not the colour scheme for a bedroom or you'll never get to sleep. Instead, use in hallways to revitalise you when you get home or in a study to keep you motivated until all your work is done. It even works in kitchens and sitting rooms. If you want to get used to the idea slowly to find out if yellow is the colour for you, then how about changing your accessories first? Then once you've seen the effect you can paint walls, buy furniture and go lemon crazy. My favourite products for adding a little zing are the Natuzzi Opus sofa, the Eden Pixel rug, Pepito chair and, of course, the Love chair. All are available from www.barker andstonehouse.co.uk

Plus, while you're enjoying the benefits of your beautifully uplifting room, why not treat yourself to the beautiful Max Benjamin Lemongrass and ginger candle, it's a little piece of heaven.

YP MAG 24/7/10