When selecting colours, ensure they are in keeping with neighbouring houses, otherwise your home might stick out like a sore thumb.

Homes with frontages that face north or west can take a dark shade since the sun lightens colours.

Create a mood board. Attach leaves and bark from trees in your garden to a large white cardboard sheet; add paint chips reflecting the colours of your plants, fence, driveway and roof tiles. Find pictures of house facades you like and compare with your board.

Always select the main colour first, followed by the accent and trim colours. Lean large swatches against the front of the house, stand back and view them from the street.

A consistent colour palette makes your home feel calm and soothing. Decorating becomes easier, because choosing accessories is simpler if you have a consistent colour theme.