Take one room and apply different wall colours, then see for yourself what a difference colour can make in the living spaces of your home.

BEFORE: The wall colour's intensity works in this space because the wall angles cast shadows that cut down on the brightness. Plus, substantial white moldings, a white floor, and a white sofa temper the punch of the room.

AFTER: The crisp blue-and-white wall combination connotes casual style, so the theme was continued with white accessories. More interest with texture, such as the waffle-weave throw on the sofa and the waffle-weave pillow on the fireside chair.

BEFORE: Desk accessories are kept warm with gold-tinged art and yellow and orange French pots. The texture and shapes of the pieces add a rustic touch to the contemporary look.

AFTER: The matted print used in the orange room has been replaced by another traditional painting. Hanging the two paintings horizontally, but off-centre, keeps the arrangement a little offbeat.