Shades of Grey — and our top 7 ways to use it

 There is an ancient philosophy with colour at its core that has lasted the test of time. Some might scoff at the idea, although it seemed to work for the Egyptians and Indians, of colour containing healing powers. But chromo therapy (the effect of colour on health and behaviour) is very much used in environmental design today. But it takes a particular skill to coordinate a monochromatic scheme that doesn't look disastrously dated or worse, devastatingly dreary.

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Good as Gold — René Dekker has the Midas touch

Think of the word “gold” and images of glamour, luxury and opulence spring to mind – usually in the form of personal accessories such as jewellery, or possibly the odd item hanging in your wardrobe.  Most people aren't afraid of wearing a little bit of this precious metal, but does this confidence translate to using the colour in their home? The simple answer is no, or at least not intentionally — there may be the odd gilt-framed mirror or trim on a lampshade, but using it deliberately and successfully requires confidence and decorating know-how.

Interior designer René Dekker believes there is never a wrong time to introduce gold to a scheme.  And used correctly it can, and should be, a timeless classic.

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