Dear Donna,

I am renting a flat with a north-facing living room which is very dark and unpleasant place to stay. I adore sunshine and every time I get back home I feel a little depressed with the atmosphere in the room. I try to brighten it up with huge bunches of nice spring flowers but to be honest, I'm quite unsuccessful. Unfortunately my colour and decorating options are limited as my landlord will not allow big reconstructions. The living room is open plan and the kitchen cupboards are painted a dark pink colour. Any ideas on how to make it look sunny?

Thank you for your help,
Elitsa.

Our Homes And Property Expert replies:

Dear Elitsa,

The fact that your kitchen cupboards are dark pink leaves you somewhat limited when it comes to colour scheming, but that shouldn't stop you from creating a warm and welcoming room. Most people turn to yellow to cheer up a north-facing room, but if you don't get the shade just right, it can look a little harsh and grey in cold light. In keeping with your units, opt for a warm pink instead. As you can't do any major renovations, paint one or two walls in a fresh tea rose pink and keep the rest of the room white, including ceiling, woodwork and remaining walls. The combination of the white and pink will give a fresh, airy look to your previously gloomy room.

Dark rooms require clever window dressings that maximise any light that filters into the room, so opt for a white voile roman blind that brightens up your window and still allows for privacy.

You're probably restricted when it comes to flooring, so if your present floorcovering is too dark, give it a little light relief with comfortable wool or sheepskin cream rugs. If you're buying any furniture, stick to light beech or clean white to add to this airy look.

Pattern makes an instant homely impact in a room, so in keeping with the pink walls, invest in some bright pink floral or deckchair-striped cushions and throws. Personalise your room too, by adding blown up arty photographs of your favourite places, pets or loved ones.

Finally, reflect more light into the room by investing in an oversized dramatic mirror placed above the fireplace if you have one, or on a wall to form a focal point.

Happy decorating!
Donna.

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