I agree with Catherine. I see more effort put into the design of a study/home office area than ever before. If my clients don't have the extra room to create a working space then we look at how they can incorporate a workspace into their living areas. I'm also finding that a lot of people don't have the time or expense to keep updating their interiors but instead are looking for timeless designs when it comes to furniture and kitchen/bathrooms. A space can be updated with accessories and art. Another trend I have seen is for more people to put more of themselves into their home design. I have seen so many homes that look exactly like showrooms or display houses (which some of them I can say are stunning but they all look the same) - however my Clients have said "well the designer told me this is what is on trend and that this is what homes look like'. And my Clients don't even like the end result! They just go with it because. People want their homes to stand out from their friends and neighbours and this can only be done with using the Clients personality tastefully.

Before deciding on a colour, don't forget to consider your kitchen cabinetry, benchtop, splashback, etc (and dining furniture)... for example, if you have a classic hamptons (farmer style) kitchen (and furniture) then don't discount a warm white for the walls... it won't look clinical as the warmth will come from the kitchen cabinetry, etc and dining furniture, e.g. But if you have a "hamptons inspired" look with a slightly more contemporary kitchen cabinetry (and furniture), then in my opinion (all nice options above but a bit too beige'ish for me) so I would suggest a light shade of a warm grey e.g. Whichever way you decide to go, try to narrow it down to 2-3 colours, get the small pot samples and paint each one on all the applicable walls as they will all look different at different angles depending on how they reflect natural daylight and the lights at night time... then you may be able to make a clearer decision. Good luck! :)

I work as a colourist and the easiest method for a upmarket look is to choose an exact colour to match one of the colours in the tile. I would take the tile to a paint shop and get the colourist it match exactly one of the greys in the tile. Make the depth of the colour a light version. All white walls are on the way out. Lappatto tiles usually have some texture as they are semi polished. This is the latest look in tiles as they give a shine without the maintenance of polished porcelain which had been in. They are usually less slippery than satin or polished tiles depending on the brand.

hey everyone we have finally moved and we got the sofa bed. It is fantastic. I'm still unpacking boxes and trying to sort through things but I think the layout works as I can enjoy views out to my yard while Hudson plays. Thanks again for your advice and help.