Tonal schemes - a single colour in various tones. Look at paint colour charts - any colours on one chart will be tones of the same colour and will complement each other. This creates a soothing, simple colour scheme.

Harmonious schemes - using colours next to or close to each other on the colour wheel. The colours work well together and allow for a little more experimentation.

Contrasting or complementary schemes - using colours on opposite sides of the colour wheel will add drama to your room. Always ensure that one colour dominates, the other colour is your 'accent' colour.

If you're decorating a small room then make a feature of one wall or chimney breast by painting it a rich darker colour and lighter colours on the other walls.

Colours - pink and green shades work well with blue. Try warming up blue with yellow and orange for a lively look. Chocolate, burgundy and olive colours work well with natural or stained wood or leather furniture.

Choose your colour scheme to appear in the following proportions: 60%, 30% and 10%. For example your walls and floor might be cream (60%), your sofas/seating might be terracotta (30%) and a few cushions and accessories might be pale blue (10%).

Use cushions and other accessories to pick out a colour from the overall scheme to accent it, they don't have to be an exact colour match, in fact tones can work better as the overall look won't be too contrived.

Each room should have a focal point. Don't dismiss the floor as a potential. A brightly coloured floor works wonders in a room with simple/neutral colours.

1) Decide on your 'ambient' lighting first - a central pendant light (or wall lights if you prefer).

2) Chose areas which you would like to pick out with lighting eg features in the room or particular items.

3) Add task lighting for areas where you might be reading or working.

4) Finally add light to areas which seem dark eg an extra table light or floor light.

5) Dark woods soak up light so don't have too many cupped together.

6) If the room is dark, then try building the exterior wall with glass bricks to let light in.