Train 2000 - The Centre for Women's Enterprise and Employment

As the festive decorations come down later this week and the rooms start to look drab and dated what better way to brighten up the New Year than with a spot of decorating.

According to interior designer Elaine Cunningham of Hale now is the perfect time to take advantage of those quiet evenings and plan a new look for your home.

Elaine has just completed the design work for The Spice Lounge, the Albert Dock's newest restaurant.

"Forget minimalism and painted plain walls. The looks for 2006 will be bold patterns and a return to wallpaper. Dark rich tones such as chocolate and mocha accented by turquoise and ice blues will add a wow factor to update any room.

As for upholstery, heavily patterned fabrics such as damasks, velvets and embossed in deep reds are high on the must-have list.

Pale painted walls will be replaced with wallpaper featuring patterns including horizontal stripes and metallic foils which are ideal for bedrooms and living rooms. Chocolate and mint will update any room, as will aubergine and red velvet. The key is to be bold.

There is still a place for minimalism in certain interiors but for most adding a touch of luxury will provide a dramatic spark to fire up a room.

White will still have a place as it never goes out of fashion but now is the time to experiment.

However, one look, which has had its day, is the laminate floor. Carpets are back big-time in rich cream tones, a sign of indulgence along with crystal chandeliers."