Ask the designer

Q OUR 5-year-old leather couch is starting to look a little scuffed. What’s the best way to care for leather furniture?

A. You can treat the scratch marks you mention by buffing cake shoe polish in the colour of the leather into the area until fully absorbed. But as this may darken the leather, you may have to treat the whole area. Keep leather furniture in prime condition with regular vacuuming using a soft brush attachment, which lifts dusts from its pores. Occasionally apply a leather-conditioning product — or just wipe with a damp cloth — to keep the leather hydrated, preventing “stretch marks”. To spot clean, dab the stain using distilled water, mild soap flakes (not liquid detergent which contains too much salt) and a soft white cloth.

Q. Is it worth splashing out on designer homeware for my apartment, or is the unbranded stuff just as good?

A. These days, everyone from John Rocha to Coleen Rooney has their own designer “home collection” available in high street stores. And whether celeb-endorsed pieces are better than unbranded one is really just a matter of opinion. WAG Coleen, for instance, has collaborated on a colourful bedding range for Littlewoods which is funky and affordable for a teen or twenty-something’s bedroom. Over at Debenhams, John Rocha has brought his eye for detail to a sophisticated furnishing range in hues of red, purple and charcoal — perfect for young professionals. But my personal favourite is Paul Costello for Dunnes Stores, which consistently delivers tasteful pieces in a neutral palette of cream, gold and silver at a great price.

Q. We are replacing the flooring throughout our home. What’s the most sustainable option out there?

A. “Cradle to Cradle” is a new commercial carpet concept which I’d love to see rolled out into domestic interiors. Basically, worn out carpet is collected and recycled by the manufacturer so it doesn’t end up in landfill. Until it makes the leap from business to home however, your best bet is probably Amtico flooring — a high quality vinyl in a selection of authentic-looking textures and colours including natural timber.

It’s warm underfoot, is easy to maintain and a high percentage of its waste is reprocessed back into the product. In terms of sustainability, it comes with a 20 year guarantee — try Superfloorstore.ie.

Q. I’d like to paint my living room a bold colour but am scared it will be a disaster. What’s your advice?

A. Before deciding on a colour scheme for any room, collate inspiring images from magazines, the internet or even your garden. This will give you a steer on which colours you prefer. You might find yourself drawn to bold colours, but only in accents. If you’re still convinced about using a daring colour on the walls, try it in varying saturation levels or combine it with a contrasting colour. Alternatively, choose three different colours and apply them in the following proportions: 60% on walls, 30% as a secondary colour on flooring, furniture, etc and 10% on accent pieces like throws and cushions. Using black or dark bronze accents such as picture frames or mirrors will help anchor the space.