Highstreet favourite Habitat is inviting customers to get down to some real lounging with its velvety smooth and oh so comfortable Joseph armchair (above), from 1,300. Visit Habitat, Suffolk Street, Dublin, 01677 1433.

COLOUR COOL As if it's not difficult enough deciding how to decorate our homes, the design boffs at the Paint Quality Institute have come up with a new trend to woo us this winter. 'Ice Hotel' is about turning your home into a sophisticated chilling zone (see below) using high quality water-based paints in cool whites and soft blues with silvery finishes, with walls enhanced by snowflake stencil designs and rooms accessorised with ornate chandeliers and clear glass tables adding a truly glacial feel.

For more information on how to achieve this look visit www. paintquality. co. uk CURTAIN CALL Choosing the best curtains for your room can be tricky. What length should you choose? Is patterned material a good idea?

What curtain headers look right? Follow these simple tips from Marks & Spencer and get it right:

>> For a modern, minimalist style of room, select curtain headers such as eyelet or loop-top which are not overly fussy.

>> Create a sense of space in a small room by introducing a colour that recedes . . . such as blue; to make a large room feel more intimate, use warmer colours that 'advance' towards the eye.

>> If windows are large, use curtains with lining to help control incoming light and the loss of heat.

>> Vertical lines can give the illusion of height for small windows.

>> Give a sense of weight and proportion to large windows by using fabrics with a heavier texture, broad pelments and chunky poles.

>> If you have a large room, you can afford to use stronger patterns and bigger floral or geometric designs.

>> When selecting the texture and pattern of curtains, keep in mind the colours and designs used in flooring and upholstery.

For example, if you have a geometric rug in vibrant colours, choose curtains that are not too bright or overly decorative.