Bovis Homes' show home dresser Ruth Copeland says that 2006 is the year to be bold and exciting.

Creating our own space which fits in with our lifestyle and reflects our personalities has never been more important.

More and more of us now keep a close eye on current interior design trends. Watching make-over shows on television, reading glossy house and home mags, or shopping for the latest in fluffy cushions, are now part of our everyday life.

So, what are the key trends right now and how can we transform our homes into up to the minute living spaces which are contemporary yet personal to each of us?

An emerging new trend is the 'new country look' - a light and breezy take on traditional country style. This uses delicate floral fabrics and natural colours to create a more feminine look than has been seen in interior design of late.

Think fresh and lively and combine splashes of floral sprigs and colours, with beiges, greys and delicate blues, to set off antique or painted furniture to fantastic effect. Patterns and fabrics can be mixed, yet the overall look is simple and understated, rather than an all-out riot of flowers and colour.

The 'modern retro look' inspired by the 1950s and 1960s, features combinations of bold and muted colours, retro-pattern fabrics and wallpapers and wood-grain finishes.

'Contemporary urban' is a calm, minimalistic look using muted colours, soft luxurious fabrics such as cashmere and cord. This is complemented by modern yet comfortable furniture with clean, simple lines, all set off with elegant lighting to create an intimate and relaxed feel for your home.

Another key trend is 'five star living' where inspiration is taken fro the design style used in luxury hotels. This style is particularly popular in bedrooms where a luxury throw and soft plump cushions in contrasting colours, can give a room an instant transformation.

Ruth's Top Tips for 2006 are:

Silk and velvet curtains are making a comeback and look great in deep colours

Use a bold motif wallpaper - the best you can afford - on one feature wall

Update current furniture. A new throw and cushions do wonders for a tired three piece and can save you hundreds of pounds.

Add a bit of glitz - gilt mirrors and elaborate candleholders are back!

Include the kids - get them painting picture frames in their fave colours to match their bedrooms. Matchpot paints with a varnish top coat gives a nice, professional finish.

Bovis show homes and apartments featuring the latest interior designs are open now at Celtic Horizon, Newport and soon in Minverva Way, Caerleon.