Do you have a secret crush on colour? Well don’t be shy, here’s how to be bold and share the spotlight inside and out, says Whether it’s in offbeat accessories, bold focal points, decorative paint or getting creative with window dressings, pops of colour create a fun-loving space for summer and beyond. “I get inspired when I’m surrounded by beauty and colourful things, even in the simplest of ways. “You could easily argue that there are bigger things to worry about in life than surrounding yourself with small ideas and a colourful quirkiness, but little things count a great deal too,” says Charlotte Hedeman Gueniau, author of “Happy Home Outside”. “I have a soft spot for throws — and you can never have too many hand-embroidered cushions for their sheer beauty, while round velvet pouffes or floor cushions come in handy when multiple guests show up,” Hedeman Gueniau adds. Teaming luxurious fabrics and accessories in jewel colours might sound showy, but this fearless approach can create an endless source of inspiration.

“Whether or not the sun is shining, the romance and flamboyancy of summer makes for the ideal backdrop to bold, bright and downright bonkers interiors,” says Jenny Hurren, creative director of Out There Interiors. “Team bright, block, clashing colours with fantastical accessories and decadent fabrics for an indulgent bohemian feel that will work for every room in the home.”eclipse faux suede curtain panels Painting a tired piece of furniture in an unexpected shade, such as a bright buttercup yellow, can trigger a real sense of achievement, as you’re bringing something old back to life, as well as revamping a space.curtains petone Annie Sloan has been working with paint in interiors for more than three decades, and there are “endless possibilities” with her Chalk Paint range, which sticks to just about any surface — inside or outside the home — without the need for priming or sanding.made to measure curtains aylesbury

Go on, grab a paintbrush and give it a go. Johnstone’s Paint is also joining in the fun this summer with its new Carnival Colour collection. We love Crushed Pineapple, cited as a creative and happy hue, with the highest saturation levels on the colour spectrum. “It’s perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, conservatories, utility rooms and hallways,” says Donna Taylor, Johnstone’s Paint senior colour consultant.sound asleep curtains aubergine “Due to its brightness levels, it will lift the dullest of rooms in a full wall format with ease, and is ideal for rooms with low natural light.made to measure curtains ealing “Its brightness also allows this colour to be used as a feature with a harmonious or contrasting bold shade, rather than accompanying it with an off-white or pastel tone.”window curtains for skoda laura

Shutters in a bright palette can also help bounce light around rooms, and can be a worthwhile investment as they’re built to last. ‘’Shutters are a stylish way to make an impact. Unlike blinds or curtains, shutters do not obscure windows, allowing you to make a feature of beautiful period details and adding kerb appeal to the outside,” says Murray Clark, director of The Shutter Store.avocado green grommet curtains “To pack a punch, opt for a bold bright shade with our colour match service. Yellow’s associated with happiness and optimism.’’ A few rays of sunshine allows your outdoor space to be lived in, so make the most of it with some well-chosen accessories. All-weather cushions and pillows, in pinks and oranges, will pull the colours of the house into the garden, and make it feel like another room, where you can entertain, dine and relax. “When stocking up your outdoor kitchen, think low-maintenance,” advises Hedeman Gueniau.

“Use durable materials that can stand the weather changes. Melamine, plastic and treated wood are all good. “Then you don’t have to take everything inside all the time, but just leave it out until the season is over. “Lanterns for candles create a cosy light when dusk sets in. Being outside means you have the opportunity to go a bit crazier when decorating than you would inside. "Pick the brightest plates and the funkiest prints.” Think of the patio or garden as an extension of your interior landscape. Garden planters with flowers on a wall, plus mixing and matching materials and colours, will create a relaxed and carefree look. “Vibrant metals sat alongside nature’s finest green grass and blue sky is always a winner,” says Hurren. “I love to add fairy lights, candles and floor cushions to my outside space, to make it feel more like an extra room of the house; perfect for long summer nights.” Happy Home Outside: Everyday Magic For Outdoor Life by Charlotte Hedeman Gueniau is published by Jacqui Small, priced £25.

Lough Hyne house is a well loved home that has been in the same family for over 35 years. It is beautifully decorated in keeping with the Regency period of the house to create a warm, comfortable and elegant environment in which to relax with friends and family. Each bedroom has its own beautiful style - the master bedroom with four-poster bed and stunning view is particularly unique. The house is welcoming in both summer and winter. The conservatory is the perfect place to read the papers on the sofa, have breakfast or enjoy an early evening drink, with the ancient vine flowering or fruiting overhead and the sun setting over Knockomagh wood. The ping pong room has witnessed competitive tournaments of varying expertise over the years!This self catering house sits in a private park of 14 acres with landscaped gardens, footpaths and lots of benches offering hidden spaces from which to contemplate the remarkable and peaceful surroundings. There is even a rhododendron 'secret passage' leading from the house to the private shingle beach from which you can swim or take one of the two rowing boats to explore the lough and the island.

Guests have exclusive access to the house, the beach and the grounds. There is a rowing boat on the beach for the use of house guests (life-jackets and oars kept in the house). This unforgettable beauty spot is ten minutes drive from the market town of Skibbereen in one direction and the charming fishing village of Baltimore and the islands in the other.Guests can contact the owner by email prior to arrival. On site, Tim our manager comes twice a week to welcome guests and can be contacted should any problems with the house arise.Lough Hyne is a sea water lake that became the first marine nature reserve of Ireland in 1981. Castle Island is located in the center of the lake where the ruins of Cloghan Castle, once a fortress of the O'Driscoll clan, are still visible. Knockomagh hill overlooks the lough and provides magical walks through the wood, passing holy wells and ruined crofters cottages until reaching the top to be rewarded with breathtaking views of the West Cork coastline.Canoe trips and lessons can be booked on the lough for both adults and children.

West Cork is famous for its natural beauty and there are wonderful walks, bicycle trails and beaches to explore throughout the area.There is an 18 hole golf course 2km from the house towards Skibbereen.The fishing harbour of Baltimore has excellent pubs and restaurants. From here you can take ferries to Sherkin Island and Cape Clear. You shouldn't miss taking a boat around Roaring Water bay, or book a whale watching tour where you can see whales, dolphins, seals and enjoy the fabulous view of the islands.It is necessary to have your own car. For late night returns from the pubs and restaurants nearby, there are taxi services that can be pre-booked from Skibbereen.We have a 3 night minimum rental policy except in July and August when it is 1 week minimum.There is a baby's cot and high chair available in the house.There are several life jackets of various sizes stored in the 'dairy room' in the house but if you have very small children it is advisable to bring your own. Some guests may wish to bring wetsuits and waterproof shoes for swimming from the shingle beaches and rocks.