Ask the designer: Decorating for summer and seasons

I have a charcoal grey sofa and would love to brighten it up for summer. What do you suggest?

A. Neon brights is one of the hottest interior trends for summer 2012. Although not for the faint-hearted, it will certainly brighten up your living room. And you don’t have to paint the walls a psychedelic hue to achieve the desired effect. Simply add some neon scatter cushions to your sofa — fuschia, tangerine, sulphur yellow or turquoise blue will really pop against the grey. Complete the look with a brightly painted coffee table or TV unit or rug, such as the stunning “Bouquet de 3” one from Roche Bobois in Sandyford, Dublin or www.roche-bobois.com.

Q. Summer has been so dull so far. Do you have any advice for making our country-style kitchen feel a little sunnier?