Chic interiors inspired by favourite designers.

Byline: By Gabrielle Fagan

Designers' rooms aren't just full of beautiful things they have a style and elegance that money can't buy.

It's down to the way they arrange furniture, place objects and artfully add accessories. Buyers of new homes would do well to take inspiration from these designers' homes and learn how they can inject character and create a real sense of style from a blank canvas.

Their secrets, techniques and stunning interiors from sleek, glass-walled houses to nurturing, sensual sanctuaries full of period detail are revealed by Suzanne Trocme, in her new book Attention to Detail.

Rather like a scientist she's analysed the styles of those who make their living creating homes that most of us can usually only admire in the glossy interiors' magazines.

By distilling their methods and approaches she's produced a blueprint which could be used by everyone who's dreamed of creating their own chic, living space.

She says: "Designers create good interiors because they decide first how they want to live in each space. Successful rooms fit the people who use them, not the other way round. Just like clothes they must suit the personality and lifestyle of their owners."

There is an order to the process - functional features, lighting, heating and storage come first, then the tone is set with detail such as floor and wall treatments. Decoration is the final touch - furniture, soft furnishings, art and ornament.

Her research has taken her around the world and she features 25 case studies, including the London home of designer Jasper Conran, showing the key elements that make their homes successful.

Suzanne, 40, who is design and architecture editor of Wallpaper magazine, says: "Before you make the final decision on the key elements of the room try to analyse the reason for your choice. You may like a wooden floor visually but if you are a person who wants to feel nurtured then cosy carpets may be a better choice.

"Never be afraid to experiment, rooms can get as tired as clothes. They need refreshing regularly either by moving pieces around or adding a stylish detail or new accessory or highlighting a treasured collection."

Design details

* Before you revamp a room or change the style make a list of the room's functions - whether it's dining, working or relaxing. It helps you focus on what pieces you need and define the right choice for lighting, and furniture and storage.

* Rooms will look bigger if furniture is not pushed up against walls. There should be imaginary but clear pathways around furniture allowing key pieces to star.

* Do not block off windows by putting furniture in front of them. This will also close a room in.

* Solid floors - designers are opting for white oak, which wears well and looks beautiful.

* Rugs, thick curtains and textured accessories add not only comfort but interest and will reduce noise in rooms with solid floors.

* When using pattern in furnishings mix the size and scale for interest. Eg: large check contrasted with a small check.

* Wallpaper adds depth and character to plain rooms, and can even be used on ceilings to great effect.

* Be imaginative when displaying pictures. Organised, precise multiple hanging can be smart if a bold statement, but dull if pastel. A variety of frames hung in a set pattern can also work well.

* Never mind the quantity, feel the quality. A couple of large cushions in stunning fabric - maybe recycled from vintage clothing - will be more effective than a row of cheaper cushions.

* Attention to Detail by Suzanne Trocme, is published by Jacqui Small, priced pounds 25. Out now.