Contemporary decoration doesn’t mean stark, cold and clinical. While modern trends favour clean lines and futuristic materials – playing with colour, texture and accessories adds warmth and charm.

Bathroom
For a chic bathroom, try mixing clean, stylish lines with traditional notes

White walls
Nothing is as fresh and current as a sleek white wall. Clean, bright and airy, these glossy, square, ceramic tiles provide a pure and serene backdrop for a room you can really relax and clear your mind in – free from the fussy trappings of more complicated decor schemes. The upkeep of walls like this is not easy but the results really speak for themselves.

Mosaic floor
Echoing the walls, the smaller tiling on the floor is almost clinical in its finish. But this just adds to the sense of peace and tranquility in this light, modern space. And any coldness is easily counteracted with classic fixtures and fittings.

Vintage elements
The traditional feet of this gorgeous freestanding, roll-top bath add a touch of warmth to what could otherwise be an austere room. While the plush, white towels lend a certain softness. 

Living room
If you’re going for a white on white sitting room, play with texture to liven things up

Relief walls
If textured walls scream 1970s to you, stop and think again. The clean white lines and geometric relief print of these wallpaper tiles marry sleek modernity with a touch of retro chic. In a living space, plain, painted white walls can prove too stark and clinical. But the unique finish on this wall is inviting and warm.

Luxuriant furnishing
This traditional studded sofa with dark wooden feet is given a modern twist with white leather upholstery. The patchwork brushed suede footstool in muted neutrals contrasts with the texture of the sofa and brings an extra sense of softness.

All in the accessories
This unique stacked tower lamp makes an excellent focal point for the room while still keeping with the white on white colour scheme. Likewise the soft throw and cushion, which add interest and a lived-in feel.

Kitchen
Mix sleek lines in neutral tones with statement taps and colourful accents

Laquered worktops 
A high-gloss, reflective finish on worktops and units in a neutral off-white shade looks clean and modern. The flush, integrated fittings  and absence of handles ensure the lines aren’t broken, creating a sense of extra space and light. Make sure to keep surfaces gleaming to achieve the full space-age effect.

Glass walls
Instead of more traditional tiles in your kitchen, why not opt for a sleek splashback made from polished glass? The smooth finish will perfectly complement laminate or buffed granite work surfaces, and you won’t have to worry about any grouting becoming discoloured or cracked.

Design on tap
These stunning steel taps provide a real focal point and work well set against the blank canvas of the smooth cream surfaces. The shower head tap is practical and looks fantastically futuristic, too.

Bedroom
For an oasis of calm you’ll want to retreat to, stick to neutral colours

Simple linen
Crisp, white or cream bedclothes create a sense of real calm in the bedroom. While bold printed cushions can be used to add interest and complement other design features in the room. Layering lots of fluffy pillows makes a bed look warm and inviting – the kind of space you’ll look forward to falling into.

Let there be light 
A statement light pendant makes a fantastic focal point in any bedroom. And this natural-toned sphere made from wooden strips perfectly captures the stripped-back appeal of the room – combining modern design with traditional materials to give a sense of contemporary laid-back cool.

Bring the outdoors in
Even the smallest touch of greenery can bring light and life to a room. A simple pot plant can be the perfect finishing touch when creating your sanctuary.

Sarah Beeny’s five top style tips
The property guru’s handy hints for home decoration

1. A good bathroom should feel clean and hygienic – somewhere you want to spend time. Lighting and heating play an important part in this so don’t overlook them.
2. Wallpaper can add colour, pattern and texture in a dramatic and adventurous way, making any room really stand out from the crowd.
3. Take your time choosing flooring. It should reflect the style of your house and its decor, the quality of the other finishes in your house and your own taste and personal preference.
4. A new staircase is often worth the investment, as a beautifully sculpted flight of stairs can be a focal point for your entire home.
5. Home furnishing trends this year include greater use of colour and antiques, and designs that last.

Pictures: getty images