Decorator Martin Harris talks classic contemporary

I was am inspired by challenge of creating the right interior solution for my clients and achieving the end result. It's amazing how we can transform a space.

I prefer classic contemporary; the combination of using old and new. But I'm not restricted to that; I can design any style to accommodate my clients.

My latest project was a beautiful '80s home in Illovo. My clients contacted me to do a refresher as their last interior decor was done 9 years ago when red and plush colours was very fashionable.So, we toned it down, changed the furniture using several pieces from Block & Chisel. We created a Hamptons look using neutral colours and adding duck egg and carefully selected brighter colours.

I normally see what pieces you have. If you have heirloom pieces, I keep them and then add new furniture pieces to complement the old. Then I look at affordable fabrics to reupholster, do new scatter cushions, curtains and then style in the end with Block & Chisel’s beautiful objet.

A solid mahogany drinks cabinet with glass doors with added black and gilded lines, which fits in perfectly with my classic-contemporary furniture from DL Furniture in Kramerville.

I love the Wanda cupboard.

Try to keep it simple, re-use older pieces of furniture and add new pieces where necessary. Keep to neutral colour palettes on bigger pieces, like sofas and then add colour with scatters, wallpaper and fabric for ottomans.