There is untold pleasure in creating the perfect decor scheme for the loved spaces within our homes; but before we choose fabrics, furniture and finishes we need to find inspiration. It is often from the pages of popular interior design and decorating magazines, the online resources of designer and social media websites, what the neighbours did or a specific product or piece that sets the spark of creativity alight. But we really need to look no further than Mother Nature for the best source of inspiration.

Nature certainly knows how to set a mood, from the tranquillity of a blue-grey sky in late afternoon to the electric blue and gold of a stormy night sky, she shows off her versatility and power of persuasion. Consider the purpose and desired mood of the room you are decorating and then look for a natural surrounding that gives you that same sense.

Whether it’s the tranquil calming lull of a still ocean on a grey day that inspires the decor of a quiet relaxing outdoor reading corner or the golden textured glow of a forest floor in autumn that inspires the look of a warm engaging entertainment area, nature guides us on colour, texture, lighting and so much more.

Take her lead when pairing colours, consider the royal contrast of lavender purple and dark green, the turquoise and pink of a sunrise, the reds and yellows of exploding fields of flowers or the crisp greens, foamy whites and slick black of a forest stream and be as bold as she is.

It need not be the bigger picture of a vista or natural scene that inspires you, it can be in the delicate detail of the smallest natural gift, such as a butterfly, a single rose or a raindrop. How about the textures and colours of a mother of pearl shell; the contrasting rough exterior and the shimmering shiny interior, the way it plays with light and how its natural form enhances?

And if you are lucky enough to be blessed with a home that nestles close to Mother Nature herself, then respect her in the best way possible, invite her into your home and make her the guest of honour.