House Doctor

Spring Clean Your Tax Position

Our resident interior designer, Amanda Hanley, answers your questions.

I’d like to redesign my bedroom – what comes first when designing a scheme?

The most important consideration is your bed; I like mine to be high up, especially when space is tight. It may seem counter-intuitive, but it has the effect of making the room look bigger. High and elaborate headboards are also a favourite, and are available in many different shapes, sizes and fabrics. Some people like symmetry, with identical bedside tables, but for something more relaxed, try putting a chest of drawers on one side and a table on the other. However, make sure that the two pieces are of equal height, otherwise lamps will look odd sitting at different levels. The biggest mistake you can make is to focus only on the look of the room, forgetting practicalities. Consider the position of light switches, space for a drink and a book at your bedside, storage, and whether your window treatment blocks light and gives enough privacy, for example.

House Doctor Amanda Hanley Andrew Martin Bedroom — Andrew Martin

TIP: Buy a high bed to make a room feel larger.

I’ve recently moved house and need to hang a lot of artwork. Do you have any tips for positioning?

In my opinion, artwork should be hung where it will be enjoyed most. This could be anywhere, although generally at eye level, as long as it is not likely to be damaged by its location i.e. too close to a heat source. Bear in mind that if the frame has glass in it, it will become reflective and hard to see when opposite a large window. Size should always be considered: a large piece will need a big enough wall and space to stand back and appreciate it. Smaller pieces will be lost if the wall is too large, unless they are grouped together into a collection. Themed groups work well i.e. animals, even if they are different styles. Hanging artwork over wallpaper is also fine, as long as the two don’t compete. Artwork can also be matched to your colour scheme, by choosing pieces with colours in common.