Green is thought to be the colour which brings life and vitality; nature uses green in virtually every plant species across the world. One great advantage to using various shades of green is the ability to coordinate and tone it with a multitude of other colours.

Take a look at flowers and shrubs to see the natural colour combinations. Gerbera flowers in vibrant oranges, reds and yellows have deep dark green foliage which tone beautifully.

Red and green colour combinations inspired by holly and ivy or deep red roses with rich dark greens leaves look stunning when used together. The key factor is to have the two different colours within the same colour range; once you have mastered toning colours together the world of colour will take on a whole new dimension.

Yellow is considered to be the ‘happy' colour. It reminds us of sunshine; from the merest hint of yellow to bright and vibrant daffodil colours, yellow is a warm colour that works well with many other colours including oranges, blues and greens.

A spring like appearance can rejuvenate a dull and tired looking room. White and yellow combinations offer a fresh clean look, ideal for using in any room. Subtle blends of yellow used as an accent colour in soft furnishings and window dressings provide a light and airy feel in a small room.

Yellow and white stripes or gingham fabrics used for cushions can provide an instant up-lift and a sunny style look to tired looking sofas and chairs. Coordinated with fabric which has a mass of tiny flowers or crisp clean white can offer a romantic and stylish look to bedrooms and bathrooms. The vibrancy of neon yellow teamed with black is very fashionable for contemporary interior designs for young people or those who dare to be different!

Purple was very fashionable in the 1970s; this regal colour is making a revival in the world of interior designs. As with other colours there are many hues and shades to choose from. The deepest rich purples look striking when used in conjunction with gold and silvers. These opulent colours are ideal for creating a sensuous bedroom. Plush purple velvet curtains swept back and held in place with beautiful beaded tie-backs, coordinated with luxurious bedding with sliver or gold embroidery and beautiful sequin work offer a truly majestic appearance when used in union with walls and paintwork of paler shades, such as lilacs or creams.

Whatever colour combinations you select a key factor is to be comfortable living with them. It is pointless using colours purely because they are fashionable if you really don't like them! It is possible to integrate colours to keep abreast of current and immerging interior design styles for those who like to keep up to date by using these them as an accent colour which can be swapped and changed easily as the trends change.