I understand that a maximalist decor isn’t everyone’s cup of Darjeeling. But you can’t not appreciate the sheer richness and whimsy of Rita Konig‘s designs. Konig describes her taste as “classic English, with mongrel influences barging in.” She’s a “magpie,” and wants to be fresh and modern, “to create and not just re-create.” This room, with its upholstered cornice, scalloped headboard, and gilded mirror is traditional, and yet thoroughly original. The mix of fabrics is daring, and there are just enough pops of pink. Konig’s advice on how to explore colour and texture is “to go in carefully and turn the dial up in increments..” Start with white walls, she suggests. “And bring in colour in small ways with a pink lamp or pink bed linen, and pink upholstery, too. Then add a Moroccan rug. You don’t need to paint a room to be colourful. It’s a bit like cooking – you add in flavours.” The pomegranate print all over the walls and drapes (this is Konig’s guest room) is by Schumacher. Have a walk around the rest of her County Durham house –– it really is a delight.