Romantic but enigmatic, the ‘Secret Garden’ colour trend is perfect for creating soothing spaces within your home.

Use pastel shades to create soothing spaces within your home

Romantic yet mysterious, this colour trend is all about creating a soft, ethereal look by layering soft pastels with intriguing materials, such as lace and frosted glass.

Pastel perfection

The colours that make up this trend are soft and smoky – think ripe plum, misty lilac and dove grey. Use varying shades of these colours to create a tranquil tone-on-tone effect, or pair neutrals with rose or lavender for a floral effect. To complete the look, bring organic elements from the outdoors into your home.

Layered look

The key to creating a delicate, ethereal look is to build up colour in soft layers. In a small room, try pairing creamy neutrals with just a touch of violet or pale berry to create a feeling of space, or in larger spaces, use darker shades like moss and aubergine to create a dramatic focal point.

Don't be afraid to mix and match different materials and textures to achieve a layered look. For instance, consider pairing lace curtains with frosted glass accents or using a plush rug to create a cosy seating area.

Finally, make sure to complement your soft, smoky shades with appropriate lighting. Soft, warm light will help create a soothing and romantic atmosphere, while brighter light can help highlight the drama and depth of the colours.