Japanese design favours subdued colours such as off-whites, pale greens and grey.

Add distinct ornaments in bold, dark shades such as black and brown that will stand out against the neutral colours which dominate the room.

Decorate with natural materials such as bamboo and paper. Walls formed from paper panels are a common feature of Japanese design, and are ideal for creating privacy while allowing light to flow freely through the home.

In Japan, less is definitely more. Keep furnishings and accessories to a minimum, and embrace Japanese traditions by choosing cushions in place of chairs.

Flexible living spaces are very common in Japan. Use sliding panels (known as Fusuma) to open or close off rooms as needed, or in place of wardrobes.

Not just practical, traditional Fusumas tend to stand out almost as works of art; made from wood or paper they are often decorated with patterns, which are traditionally handpainted onto the panels.

Plants are vital for creating tranquillity in Japanese homes, with preference often giving to smaller plants which won’t dominate the space.

Add splashes of colour to traditional Japanese décor with plants such as Fargesia, Muralie (dwarf bamboo), and Camellia hybrids.

Despite favouring minimalist furnishings, Japanese accessories tend to be heavily patterned. Choose statement pieces decorated with oriental patterns, in colours including white, black, or red.

Mexican design embraces a rich and diverse colour palette including yellow, maroon, deep pinks, and shades of blue. Yet despite using a vast array of colours and favouring bold accessories, there’s a careful method to the placement of furnishings and decor.

Decorate using straight lines and partitions – try painting two halves of a wall (split horizontally) in two distinct, but complementary colours.

If there’s one rule of Mexican design, it’s to accessorise! Think candles, metallic picture frames, and cloth wall hangings. Don’t be afraid of a little bit of clutter; traditional Mexican homes are warm, colourful, and comfortable – if the result is a little bit of clutter, who cares?!

Always think natural - choose a seating area with sofas crafted from pine timber, walnut, or cherry. Mexican traditions embrace comfort and clutter, so decorate your sofas with cushions and throws adorned with busy patterns and bold colours such as orange, blue, or red.

Traditional Mexican homes don’t have carpet, choosing to use wood, or tiles (either ceramic or clay) instead.

If you’re prepared to give up the comfort of carpet, choose light coloured tiles, or wooden panels in dark brown, black, or off white. For warmth, comfort, and to add another splash of colour, accessorise with a thin, handmade rug.

For an authentic Mexican feel think rustic – choose furnishings crafted from natural materials such as leather, reeds and rushes, and don’t be afraid to mix and match materials.

Tables tiled with ceramic or mosaic (in blue, red, yellow, or white) will complete the Mexican theme.

Brighten your home with statement lamps and shades. Wrought-iron and wood are popular materials in Mexico but ceramic can work too – choose rustic colours such as brown and beige, accompanied by adventurous, South-American inspired patterns.

Swedish interiors are strictly minimalist, although colourful accessories help to add warmth and transform a house into a home.

Popular colours tend to be neutral, with off-whites, greys, and peachy tones permanently in style. Show your adventurous side with accessories; brighter shades of blue, yellow, and pinks are always popular.

For an authentic Scandinavian feel, keep it simple. Nordic designers tend to keep the core elements of a room neutral, while adding splashes of style using muted patterns (such as stripe on walls), and brightly coloured throws, cushions, and rugs.

Nordic designers such as Alvar Aalto and Tapio Wirkkala are named the pioneers of Organic Modernism for their innovative use of nature in their designs.

As a result, popular materials in Scandinavian design include wood, metal, leathers, and fur. Natural wooden floors and fresh cut leather sofas are a must!

Natural light is integral to Swedish design, so ditch your old, dull lamps and replace heavy curtains with light, wooden blinds (which you should usually keep open).

Choose glossy floorboards in favour of carpet – they will help to reflect the light, brightening the room even more.

Take a step back with your accessories. Swedish interiors are modelled on clean, open spaces, so clutter should be kept to a bare minimum (or ideally, eliminated entirely).

Eco-living is synonymous with Sweden; if you want to truly embrace a Swedish lifestyle (and pay less for your bills!) ensure your home is fully insulated, and consider choosing triple glazing and underfloor heating.

Chinese homes use minimal artificial lighting, preferring to make the most of the natural light available.

Since you probably won’t do without artificial light at night, choose low wattage or tinted bulbs. Alternatively, hang orange lanterns to add a subtle, tranquil glow.

Chinese design is simple and minimalist: quickly create space by removing unnecessary accessories and you’ll instantly open up the room.

Chinese ceilings are far from ordinary, with the most exotic crafted from woven bamboo.

Choosing bamboo will invite a traditional Chinese warmth to a room, or if that’s too ambitious, paint your ceiling with a white matt paint which will add height and create a simple base for embracing minimalist Chinese design.

Chinese décor has clean, straight lines and elements of symmetry so if you’re looking for furniture try and keep everything the same height. If you really want the room to feel exotic then go for tables that are low to the ground – this is very common in Chinese interiors.

Shoji screens offer privacy, enable you to partition rooms, and make stunning statement accessories. Choose a screen decorated with traditional oriental patterns, and make sure to pick one after you’ve selected your colour scheme.

Traditional Chinese designs are based upon a need to create a tranquil, spiritual environment. This is reflected in the beautiful, calming colours that you’ll usually see in Chinese homes: off-whites, orange, red, beige, brown, and pink are most popular, with careful consideration given to how colours will complement each other.

Dominant colours in Italian interiors tend to be neutral, with shades of off-white, beige, and grey taking centre stage. They’re usually accompanied by accessories in more vibrant tones however; choose deep greens, blues, and browns to add warmth and complete your Italian design.

Italian designs will feature the sofa as the main focal point of the room. Choose an Italian-worked leather (what else!) in a strong, solid colour (black’s always a good choice) to make sure the sofa will be the star of the room.

Light colours and simple furnishings should be accented by traditional Italian accessories; think grandiose paintings, prints, and tapestries.

For a truly authentic Italian home, your accessories need to be dual-purpose – they have to look good, and serve a functional use too. The idea is to keep clutter to a minimum, so if you can’t do something useful with it, put it away.

Your Italian inspired home should have plenty of open space (keep that clutter away!)

Floor to ceiling windows make the perfect finishing touch, but if you don’t have them, choose lightweight, floor length curtains to create the perception that you do.

Carpet’s a rarity in continental Europe and Italy’s no exception – ditch the carpet in favour of dark wooden or off-white floorboards, or tiles.

An oversized rug is a great way to add an extra splash of colour and in the winter, some much needed warmth.

The Moroccan colour palette is just gorgeous with its combination of earthy and jewel tones. Mix deep read, sapphire blue, emerald green and vibrant orange with earthier chocolate, beige and off-whites for a truly authentic, yet modern, look.

Don’t be afraid to mix up your textures, colours and patterns. Teaming a black sofa with a reclaimed wood side-table conjures a luxe-exotic feel that you can’t help but fall in love with. Finish the look off with a number of jewel-tone and copper trinkets arranged on the table.

Hanging colourful mosaic-inspired pieces on your walls is a simple way to introduce Moroccan design in to your home. Try a mixture of photographs, prints, plates or even fabric wall-hangings for an authentic feel.

When it comes to lighting, it’s all about creating atmosphere. Mix and match floor lamps, sconces and even pendant lights to allow you to control the mood. Intricately detailed floor and table lamps are great for the evening whilst decorated brass sconces diffuse a gentle light across the whole room.

Floors should be kept simple and dark. Wood is an incredibly popular choice, but large earthy tiles can also work well. Use brightly coloured rugs to add warmth and highlight focal points, such as the seating area or coffee table, in the room.

Traditional Moroccan design dictates that all furniture should be kept low to the ground. Not only does this promote a more relaxed and sociable atmosphere, but it also gives the illusion of more space.

Large scatter cushions surrounding a low coffee table makes for a great gathering point for friends and family.

Clutter is a killer when it comes to setting a Colonial tone. Keep your room looking spacious and simple by integrating clever hidden or built-in storage.

Colonial inspired interiors have a rustic feel due to the colour palette that is used. Try using colours like off-whites, pale yellows and greys; not only will these colours give your home the Colonial feel, it will also make your space look bigger and feel lighter due to the absence of dark, bold colours.

Natural materials are at the very heart of Colonial style and using a combination of light and dark woods gives a modern twist to this classic look. Think whitewashed rustic floorboards or large polished tiles with darker wood furniture, or swap things around for a more contemporary look.

Keep your colour scheme relatively neutral. Off-whites, pale yellows and soft-greys are all excellent choices work perfectly with Colonial design’s signature dark wood furniture.

Don’t be afraid to use statement lighting. A beautiful chandelier will draw the eye to the centre of the room and add a regal touch. Use table lamps or wall sconces to enhance the light levels when needed.

Antique ornaments and beautiful table lamps are an integral part of this look. Make them pop by choosing a pale colour for the walls and ceilings. Off-white or lighter colours work perfectly and will only enhance your space.

Stick to a rich, yet simple colour-palette for an authentic look. Use neutral and chocolate tones as a base and build up depth using vibrant oranges, milky whites and sumptuous reds for a luxurious finish.

A pop of colour is vital for bringing those breath-taking sunsets in to your home. If you’re feeling brave why not try painting one wall a deep and vibrant orange and keeping the others neutral? If that doesn’t float your boat, use wall-hangings and canvases to introduce colour without the commitment.

If you’ve decided to keep your walls light and bright, you can go for a darker floor. Wooden boards or earthy tiles work perfectly with this style of décor. Bring them to life with a rug adorned with a bold and beautiful African pattern for the perfect finishing touch.

By choosing dark furniture you let your accessories do the work (and you can change up the look of your room whenever you feel like it!) Opt for dark wood for your coffee tables, cabinets and side tables. If you have pictures on the wall, tie the look together by ensuring the frames match the furniture; a simple tip, but one that shouldn’t be overlooked.

Contrast is vital so ensure the larger pieces of furniture, such as sofas, armchairs and coffee tables, are kept dark and sultry.

A brown leather sofa looks stylish and can be brought to life with colourful throw cushions whilst brightly coloured fruit such as oranges and bananas work perfectly as a centrepiece.

When it comes to African-inspired interior design, it’s all about the accessories. Wooden tribal masks, carvings of animals such as giraffes, elephants and rhinos, and large earthy pots and vases are all great choices.

Flamboyant colour schemes don’t register in Parisian style. Stick to more muted colour palettes which include soft sage greens, delicate yellows, blush pinks and beautiful blues. Gold is an excellent accent colour against all of these shades, but remember to use it wisely.

Subtle patterns and prints are a French speciality. When looking for upholstered pieces keep an eye out for delicate jacquard designs which are delightfully contemporary and traditional in equal measures.

Keep an eye out for furniture with a natural dark wood frame upholstered in light fabrics – these are the pinnacle of French style. A mixture of off-white and pale green works beautifully too, and may be a preferable choice for those who don’t like things to be too matchy-matchy.

Never be afraid to mix and match your accessories. Wrought iron, distressed materials and delicate patterns all work beautifully together. The gorgeous fleur de lis works perfectly on cushions or lampshades, whilst reclaimed clocks and tables help pull the look together.

French-inspired accessories are a dime-a-dozen at the moment; shabby-chic photo frames and rustic trinkets are a must for channelling a French vibe, as are fresh flowers. Grab a bunch of lavender (rampant in the French countryside) and pop it in a vintage vase or glass to quickly perk up your room.

When it comes to lighting your room, be bold! A chandelier makes an excellent focal point and the twinkly lights just enhance the romantic atmosphere further. Silky lampshades with beads, fringing or feathers are a great alternative if you’re looking for a quick fix.

The Indian colour palette is as deep and vibrant as the country itself. Take inspiration from its spices and rich heritage and choose fiery reds, bold purples, delicate golds and lively greens for your accent colours against a more neutral background.

Go wild with your lighting choices. Floor lamps with intricate details and carved wall sconces will allow a gentle diffusion of light to flood the room, and help to keep things from feeling to bright and overexposed.

You need to ensure that your furniture can stand up to the rest of the décor in the room. Rather than choosing patterned upholstery, choose something in a single dark colour. A large and sturdy sofa will hold its own amongst the myriad of colours and can be brightened up with the use of silky scatter cushions and throws.

Polished concrete is a popular medium when it comes to flooring. For those who prefer something a little less stark, large earthy floor tiles in a dark or neutral colour would work wonderfully. Dark-stained wood flooring looks equally as beautifully, especially when you throw a brightly coloured rug down for contrast.

It’s very easy to over-clutter a room with an Indian theme. The beautiful colours and patterns are works of art in themselves, so keep accessories minimal. A few brass, gold, bronze or wooden trinkets will tie in with the overall theme without making it look too busy. Jewel-toned candle holders are easy to find, and help set the mood in the evenings.

Transport yourself to India using your senses. Incense is a brilliant way to add another dimension to your décor. Frankincense, with its fresh citrusy scent, buttery and sweet sandalwood, and warm amber are all popular choices. Always use a proper incense burner, and never leave it burning unattended.