The arrival of spring always makes me feel like injecting some colourful florals into my décor. I love pattern – it adds so much depth and character to a room. The TV series Interior Design Masters inspired me to think about how we use print and pattern in our interiors. Follow my tips and introduce some joyful pattern into your home.

1. Minimalist or maximalist?
Are you a minimalist or a maximalist? Minimalists go for a clean look, white walls, and a quiet colour palette. Maximalists love bold and vibrant décor, brimming with pattern. Getting the balance right is key.

A room without any pattern can look bland and boring, but too much pattern can make a space feel too busy and not relaxing to be in. Achieve the right balance by keeping to a simple colour palette of three or four colours using pattern to anchor the whole scheme.

2. Stripes and checks
A safe way to introduce pattern to a scheme is by adding some stripes in a subtle colour – check out Farrow and Ball’s wallpapers. Or go for a fine stripe on a blind or curtain in a stronger hue. I am a fan of Ian Mankin’s ticking fabrics.

Checks are currently having a moment, so why not freshen up your room with gingham? I’ve just ordered one in a terracotta/cream check for my dining table – but it’s not just for tablecloths! A check fabric also looks great on a lampshade, an upholstered footstool or small chair, or on a bed-spread for a chic French look.

3. Floral chic
Incorporating a bold floral print into a room can seem daunting – the key is restraint. A large floral print on a chair adds real personality to a sitting room. Just make sure the colours co-ordinate with the rest of the room.

In a bedroom, statement headboards are currently in fashion. Upholster yours in a beautiful floral print and it will be a hit on Instagram. Or bring the outside in with a fresh botanical pattern – I love palm-house prints, perfect for a statement wall.

4. Vintage vibe
For that extra touch of style, take the sustainable option. Search out vintage textiles – perhaps an Indian inspired paisley throw. The country house look is also having a resurgence but with an added contemporary twist. Designers have dived into the archives and produced old designs in vibrant new colours – think chintz, Bloomsbury inspired prints, and flamboyant Chinese bird designs in modern colour-ways.

A friend’s daughter plans to use an updated William Morris print wallpaper for her kitchen. Balance these up with neutrals and plains or smaller prints in harmonious colour-ways.

5. Accessories with pattern
Start small by adding some interesting pattern to a room by searching out cushions, rugs or art prints in designs you love, or try out a bold wallpaper in your downstairs loo. Be brave, have fun and bring that spring feeling into your home!