Flowers and floral themes have long been popular in decorating but contemporary decorating styles demand a fresh approach to using florals in interiors. Author Julia Bird has created a brilliantly simple yet highly effective new design vocabulary using flowers as her inspiration. The book is divided into five principal colour palettes reflecting the seasons: Light and Fresh - the light citrus colours of spring, Cool and Clear - the clear bright shades of early summer, Brilliant and Bright - the hot colours of high summer, Soft and Subtle - the mellow palette of autumn, Deep and Exotic - the dark but jewelled colours of winter. Simple practical ideas in each chapter provide a wealth of ideas for accessible decorative touches, including hand-decorated ceramic plates, instant lampshade motifs and delicate silk cushions with appliqued flowers. Country meets contemporary in this stylish book, appealing to a wide range of tastes which is an inspiration for colour mixing in a new and vibrant way. It is full of easy-to-copy details which work in any setting, from city apartment and country cottage to grand country house or seaside home.

Julia Bird was home editor and stylist for Homes and Gardens and has worked as a stylist for major companies such as Laura Ashley and Marks & Spencer. Her books include The Simple Home and Julia Bird's Soft Furnishings. In this book she works with Jane Newdick, whose books include Sloe Gin and Beeswax. She lives in Bridgewater, Somerset Pia Tryde is an internationally acclaimed photographer whose book work includes The Cutting Garden by Sarah Raven and Pure Style Outside. She lives in Sutton, Suffolk.