Those who favour the Ann Maurice style of neutralising your home look away now. Today we're celebrating statement pieces - theatrical, dramatic, bold or high camp items that shun the shy and retiring school of interiors and instead add immediate beauty and impact to a room.

Whether you choose an exquisitely patterned wallpaper; an ostentatious, over-the-top chandelier; a divinely decadent rug; an intricately designed piece of furniture; or a fabulously over the top window treatment, a statement piece asserts a confident sense of style and makes a striking impression. Just one or two statement pieces in a room will have the desired effect. Go on - indulge your daring side.

This feature was published in May 2007.