Our homes have a dramatic effect on our mood and spirit, so investing in their visual appeal makes perfect sense

Ham & High: Undated Handout Photo of the Ziba double duvet cover, navy, 80; pillowcase, from 16; throw, 195; and gold cushion 45, all available from Bedeck. PA Photo/Handout.Undated Handout Photo of the Ziba double duvet cover, navy, 80; pillowcase, from 16; throw, 195; and gold cushion 45, all available from Bedeck. PA Photo/Handout. (Image: Blink Photo 2013)

This time of year, when designers and stores release their new collections, is a perfect opportunity to track new trends - and embrace them if you’re in the mood for a complete makeover, or simply shake up your existing scheme with some smart new buys.

This isn’t a season for the faint-hearted, as there’s a roll call of bold looks: full-on sultry luxe - all dark tones and glittery metallics, a style garden of dark blooms, and a twist on tradition with dark green ‘gentlemen’s club’ style settings, which make a grand backdrop for carefully chosen furniture pieces.

If that all sounds a little too rich for your decor palette, go for more subtle interpretations - no trend’s worth following just for the sake of it, it must suit you, your lifestyle and your taste, too.

That said, there’s plenty to excite that could bring that requisite personality to rooms, and make your home awesome for autumn...

Ham & High: The Puccini Drinks Cabinet, 1,999, Wendy Morrison jewels rug, 595, and Odyssey large sofa, 2,000, all available from John Lewis. Picture credit should read: PA Photo/Handout.The Puccini Drinks Cabinet, 1,999, Wendy Morrison jewels rug, 595, and Odyssey large sofa, 2,000, all available from John Lewis. Picture credit should read: PA Photo/Handout. (Image: John Lewis Autumn/Winter 2015. Craft and Curate, Indulgence, Scandinavian Sensibilities, HOUSE, Metropolitan and Global View)

MIDNIGHT BLOOMS

Feel free to play with this versatile trend and be as subtle or daring as you wish. Conjure sultry colonial settings with dark, exotic blooms, or whip up a wilder gypsy chic.

“We’re seeing a modern take on a classic floral look, which will achieve a bold statement in any room,” says Abigail Bomford, senior design manager at George Home.

“Combine dark purple shades and oversized, dramatic floral prints against a neutral backdrop of softer hues of dusky lilacs and blush tones. For the less colour confident, focus on a floral print and pair with washed-out white accessories, to conjure a soft, romantic atmosphere which is so prevalent in the autumn collections.”

GO GREEN

Green is the new ‘black’ - that’s the decree of the decor experts who are plumping for a trend already seen emerging strongly in fashion.

“Mix deep bottle or racing car greens with ochres, brick reds and aubergine purples to create a luxurious, layered feel,” advises Stephanie Chen, director of home, Marks & Spencer. “Accessories in materials such as marble, polished brass and crushed velvets, will add a further luxury touch and interest to a room.”

DARK MATTER

Opulence, decadence and full-on luxury are all being celebrated this season, and the ultimate sanctuary should be sensual, with touch-me textures, moody dark shades and glitzy finishes.

“The luxe trend works in any style of home and is all about layering beautiful fabrics and well-chosen metallic pieces - gold, copper or bronze - which can be combined with almost any interior style,” says Sue Roberts, design director at House of Fraser.

“Soft and shiny shimmering fabrics, velvets and silks, glowing accents and gilded metallics are all a safe choice, but for added opulence, keep warm hues at the heart of a scheme. Combine bold geometric pattern with rich textures to bring a stylised look home.”