Make room for calm

Start by clearing the floor rather than the walls. Furniture on legs, one larger rug instead of several small ones, and a single light colour across walls and ceiling make a room read as one continuous space. Then keep one surface completely empty. It sounds minor, but the eye needs somewhere to rest.

Linen and linen blends diffuse light beautifully and age gracefully, though strong sun will fade deep colours over time. A cotton lining protects the face fabric and helps the curtains hang well. Silk looks lovely but breaks down quickly in direct light, so save it for rooms facing away from the sun.

Pick one anchor line. For a single piece, the centre usually sits around eye level; for a group, align either the top edges, the bottom edges or a shared centre line. Lay the arrangement out on the floor first, and keep the gaps between frames equal. Consistent spacing does more for a gallery wall than matching frames.

Look at what can't easily be changed: orientation and light, ceiling height, the position of load-bearing walls, windows and plumbing. Paint, floors and kitchens can be replaced. Visit at different times of day if you can, and notice how the rooms connect when you walk through them.

They share a love of natural materials and uncluttered rooms, but the mood differs. Scandinavian interiors lean towards cosiness, pale wood and layered textiles for long winters. Japanese minimalism puts more weight on empty space, low furniture and the beauty of imperfect, handmade things. Many homes borrow from both.