Small living room

THESE SIMPLE DESIGN INGREDIENTS ARE ALL YOU NEED TO CREATE A CALMING DEN THAT BRINGS THE OUTSIDE IN. TICK OFF OUR ESSENTIALS TO ACHIEVE A PERFECT SPACE FOR RELAXING ALL YEAR ROUND

- HOLLY WALSH

1. HANGING RAIL

Create a unique display by fixing a curtain rail along the top of your wall then hanging anything you like, from plants to prints. Either attach a few 'S' hooks to the rail (colour matched for a cohesive look) or opt for a pole that can easily be lifted in and out of place, so you can slide hanging baskets, macramé pieces or artwork along it.

IH LOVES...

• Ikea for simple rails in a trio of colours
• Dunelm has easy-fix varieties
• B&Q sells brass and chrome options

2. SHELF

Rather than choosing bulky furniture to house a TV or decorative accessories, streamline your space with a low-level shelf instead. Build a simple wooden box that runs the width of your wall, ensuring it's deep enough to safely support what it needs to. Paint or panel the front to match the wall behind, then top with a plank of painted wood, leftover worktop or even a slab of slate.

IH LOVES...

• Wickes has plenty of DIY essentials