A contemporary online design store…with a splash of colour.We chat to founder of asplashofcolour.com Natasha Broady and talk interior trends and how to uplift your home.

You worked in PR for over 15 years, what made you decide to take the leap and move into the design field?

I have always loved interiors ever since I was young and a few years ago I did an evening course in Interior Design at the Chelsea College of Art, which fuelled my passion even further. I always knew that if I could, I would like to one-day work in an industry that I love so last year when I went travelling and having the headspace to think I took the brave decision to make the leap and follow my dreams.

Can you tell our readers about the philosophy of asplashofcolour.com?

Whenever I wanted a particular coloured accessory for my home I always had to scour lots of sites to find a particular colour. Asplashofcolour.com was born out of the desire to help make finding stylish designer coloured furniture and accessories with a point of difference easy.

What is the process behind choosing certain designers and brands for asplashofcolour.com?

The idea is to showcase newer designers or brands that are not easy to find that really have something to say in colour. I spend a lot of time trying to get furniture and accessories that are beautiful and have been designed with love.

What interior trends can we expect to see in 2016?

I’ve recently got back from Maison & Objet which is always a feast for anyone who loves interiors. There were a few key trends that came out of the show for 2016. Earthy green tones and royal blues featured heavily as feature colours this year. Marble is still a key material across the board in new designs but happily for me quite a few pieces I saw had a pop of colour integrated in some way. Natural materials such as cork and cardboard are also making a big play in design in 2016 with designers becoming more conscious of the environment.

For those who get a little overwhelmed when it comes to adding a splash of colour to their interiors, are there do’s and don’ts when it comes to colour?

First rule is don’t be afraid. Colour used in the right way can only enhance a room. I think when you are afraid of colour the key is start small. Work with small interesting pieces that create a talking point in a room. Don’t think that colour has to be a whole room painted in a daunting colour or every accessory in the room has to be the same colour. I totally understand that colour can appear frightening but used in the right way it will add some personality to a room and make it an inviting place to live.

What’s the best way to start introducing colour into a muted palette?

A statement piece of lighting against a muted palette can really work but if that feels like too brave a step then smaller accessories like vases, cushions and art can really work. There is such a big trend for white kitchens right now, a coloured kitchen stool or a bright clock against the white can really add the wow factor. It really does only have to be as simple as one or two pieces that take it to another level.

What’s an average day like, if there is one?

I currently run the business by myself so there is definitely no average day. It is good because there is so much to do, no one day is ever the same. A week can consist of me speaking to my designers about changes to the site, to meeting a supplier about new products. Yesterday I did a photo-shoot for the site so this week has been about getting everything ready for that.

When you are not busy working, what do you like to do to unwind and relax?

If I’m not out socialising drinking or eating with friends then I’ll be at yoga unwinding from the week.

Who are your favourite designers?

On a high-end scale I love Ligne Roset their designs are always incredible and have a unique point of view. A newer designer on the scene that I’ve been watching from afar who is incredible and is winning lots of awards in the design world is Bethan Grey her leather tables are on my list of must have’s!

What’s the best way to reinvent an old piece of furniture?

Really depends what it is. If we are talking about beds or sofas soft furnishings like cushions and throws can really add texture and layers and make it feel much fresher. If you like doing things yourself and have an old set of drawers you could refresh it by covering it in wallpaper. Some of the graphic papers on the site would look stunning.

Any top tips on how to get a designer home on a budget?

I look at furniture like you would fashion. Mix up your home accessories with high street and designer pieces that way you can really crate a sense of style and design at a fraction of the cost. The key is to invest in pieces that need to be durable or where they have a real focal point in a room.

Where are your favourite places to eat/drink/shop across London?

My favourite restaurant at the moment is Palomar a new Israeli restaurant in Soho. The Hoxton Hotel is always fun for a drink on the weekend and my guilty shopping pleasure is The Kooples.

What’s your motto?

Back and Believe in Yourself and don’t let fear get in your way.