How would you describe your interior style, and what are your influences?

My style – which you can see over on Instagram at @simplyscandikatie – mainly incorporates Scandinavian influences, as well as modern country. I love neutral colours and the use of natural materials like wood, plants and fabrics. I use a lot of reclaimed antique pine furniture, which I often paint so it blends seamlessly with the colour scheme of the room, while still adding character and originality to the space. 

What are your five top tips for selecting art? 

  1.       Pick pieces that really speak to you. They should make you feel something and draw you in.

  2.       Create harmony between the art and space. This could be linking your artwork to your interior design and colour scheme, or the function of the room. For example, you could pick a water-themed piece for a bathroom, food-inspired piece for a kitchen, or an educational piece for a child’s bedroom.

  3.       Think about the frame. This is very important, as it can transform an artwork and how it works in the room. If the artwork isn't already framed, you could link the frame to a colour in the artwork, or the style of the room. A minimalist frame will let a piece speak for itself, while an ornate frame will match a grand room. 

  4.       Display pieces together. Think about collating smaller pieces together or within the same frame to fill a large bare wall and create a real focal point in the room.

  5.       Consider how much you want to invest. There are so many options and price ranges out there. Limited edition prints are usually more affordable, so they are a great place to start building your collection until you really know what your preferences are. 

What do you look for when buying art? 

I always tend to be drawn to certain art genres, particularly landscapes, portraits and figurative scenes. They really grab my attention and make me want to stare at them to analyse what the artist is trying to portray. 

What type of art suits the Scandinavian style? 

I try to connect my neutral interiors to nature, so I like my art to have some kind of connection too. Abstract landscapes and seascapes are a real favourite of mine, as they incorporate soft, muted colours. It really makes you feel like you are staring out at the view, enjoying the true beauty of our world. 

Which room do you think art is most important for?

That's a hard question, as I think art is important in every room. Art is a part of the interior, so it's an easy way to share the theme and colours of the space, as well as how you want people to feel while they are in the room. If I could only pick one room, it would be my lounge, as it's a more formal space so I can invest in special, meaningful pieces that my guests and I can enjoy. 

How important do you think art is to a home?

Extremely important. Art brings walls to life and allows you to express the emotions and feelings of a room, depending on the style and colour. You can really express your personality and interests through the artwork you choose to display. 

Featured art: 'Thunder Passing' by Lawrence Coulson, £350.