Hi Donna,

How can I go about creating a New England-style for my lounge/diner? I'm really starting from scratch and need advice on all aspects of the décor please.

Thanks,

Celine.

Our Homes And Property Expert replies:

Dear Celine,

New England style is a crisp, clean and sophisticated American look reminiscent of Ralph Lauren's shabby chic style. Followers of this look believe very much in sticking to some very strict colour and materials rules.

Basically, all floors should ideally be wooden - oak, beech or maple. You can soften these up a little by adding some woven cotton rugs afterwards. Purists also insist that all walls are painted in pure white throughout the house - quite a tall order if you have kids with sticky little fingers running around. If you already have wooden furniture that you'd like to revamp to fit the style, then give it a wash with either a watered-down white matt paint or use a liming kit that leaves a white finish in the grain of the wood. If you're buying from scratch, invest in pieces in either American white oak or alternatively, furniture painted white.

Stick to pure white fabrics when it comes to choosing upholstery and soft furnishings too. So choose white sofas and dress windows with simple white roller or Roman blinds and then layer with white calico curtains. Add colour in the form of cushions and throws in bold blue or red plain dyes, checks, stripes and ginghams.

Ikea is a great place to pick up New-England-inspired pieces as it's not too far removed from simple Swedish style. But if you're looking for the real thing, take a look at the beautiful range from New England Lifestyle. Their name says it all. They have a vast collection dedicated to this look - from bed linen, bedroom furniture, light fittings and dining room sets to sofas, coffee tables, rugs and paintings. This Vermont sofa (pictured) costs £1650; Boston coffee table, £495; white runner, £145; scatter cushions, £35 each. Call 0870 8746292 or visit New England Lifestyle.

Enjoy your decorating!

Donna.