Ask the designer: Breakfast bars, boutique styles and a baby nursery

Q. Can you give me a few ideas for a breakfast bar or an island in my kitchen? We need to seat four.

A. You have a few options. Your breakfast bar can be higher or lower than your existing counter top. It can also be installed on the same level as an extension of the counter, which gives a lovely big worktop. If you would prefer it higher, this usually takes the form of a long, raised shelf attached to the counter top, requiring high stools. When lower, it takes low stools or standard dining chairs. A clever designer can often position your breakfast bar to maximise the light and – if you are lucky – a good view. Your island can incorporate a microwave, dishwasher, prep sink, etc – so don’t forget the electric sockets.

Q. I want to bring a “boutique” style to our master bedroom and en suite.

A. The key to a boutique style of bedroom is to have a big, puffy duvet and pillows dressed with crisp white bed linen. Keep everything as plain as possible with touches of decadence. Your headboard should be plain, square and fairly tall. Choose one of the new textured wallpapers, perhaps with a glossy foil background. Use a bold, striped throw for a splash of colour across the end of the bed. Use dark woods and plenty of chrome and glass. Keep the lines sharp and clean and use lots of contrast. In the bathroom, keep the lines of the sanitary ware plain and keep clutter to the minimum. Have variable lighting which can be adapted to low light for atmosphere. A dark wood vanity unit attached to the wall, but off the floor, and a large, well-lit mirror completes the look.

Q. Our hall is large with beige floor tiles and has a very hollow sound. Is there anything I can do about it?

A. Hallways need to be welcoming and warm: good lighting; a wall mirror to check lipstick and hair; a handy table or console; a place for coats and umbrellas, and a convenient loo and washbasin are all essential. Cupboards and shelves can be built in under staircases and bookshelves incorporated into landing areas. The hollow sound you describe means there is a lack of soft furnishings in your hall. Try curtains over the hall door and a stair carpet. A beautiful rug on the hall floor will add colour and texture. Hang a chandelier in the stairwell.

Q. We are expecting our first baby in September and want to make our new addition’s nursery comfortable and practical — any pointers?

A. Make sure there are no sharp corners or surfaces. Windows must be secure and light fittings and sockets protected from tiny fingers. All surfaces should be hard wearing, waterproof, and scuff proof. Choose colourful washable cotton or poly cotton for your curtains and bed covers. Floor coverings should be splinter free; linoleum or laminate is ideal for a baby’s room. Don’t forget about the ceilings when you are decorating. When small children and babies are tucked up in bed, it is wonderful for them to have something to look up at.

* www.ornaoreilly.com