Question: I want a rich, Victorian look for my bedroom. I am painting the wall behind the bed hot pink, with black ceiling mouldings. On the opposite wall, i want burgundy wallpaper, photos and a pink zebra armchair, or it is too busy?

Answer: What a daring colour scheme! Yes, it will work, if you tone it down a bit. The elaborate black moldings used to create a “bedhead” will look more romantic and modern-Victorian if you use, say, burgundy rather than hot pink, which will look harsh and feel too punk-rock.

On the opposite wall, your photos will stand out better of you use a tone-on-tone wallpaper instead of a contrasting print. Go for texture to enhance the sensuous appeal of your bedroom – look for a lovely velvety or flocked Victorian-style pattern. In terms of colour, you can work with burgundy as planned, or perhaps opt for a shimmering silver-grey print to brighten up the room a bit and provide a more neutral background for your colourful photos.

Credit: photography Darren chang art direction nonie chen