of new trends for the home with a emphasis on easy living and simplicity.

Clearing out the clutter and opening up unused space will continue to be a big theme, as will the use of textured materials and paint finishes, exciting floorings and new wall coverings.

Natural. As the world becomes increasingly electronic, it seems people are beginning to yearn for more natural things in the home -interiors that make us feel good, comfortable furniture and fabrics that inspire.

One of the biggest themes for 2001 and perhaps one of the easiest to live with is `natural'. It's all about easy living, creating that relaxed yet stylish look with natural colours, beautiful textured weaves and simply designed furniture.

An added bonus is that it's easy to change the look of a naturally styled room by simply adding accessories in contrasting colours and accents.

Add depth to the natural room with textured fabrics, floorings and wall coverings. Introduce a mixture of rough and smooth materials such as soft silks, airy voiles, woolly throws and fleecy cushions.

Complement these with rough floor coverings such as coir and sisal or chunky wool rugs.

Decorate curtains and cushions with contrasting trims and be creative with some of the latest fabrics such as suede effects, printed linens and fine organzas.

Paint walls in the latest ready-mixed effects to create the look of fine sand and chalk, and choose wallpapers with subtle metallic hints or plaster textures.

The romantic look is likely to make a progressive impact on the home in the forthcoming year.

This modern look focuses on delicate patterns, pretty pastels and ornate accessories with a nostalgic overtone.

To achieve that undeniably romantic look, keep everything simple. Mix and match delicate silks and satin fabrics with embroidered weaves and pleated soft wools.

Paint walls in soft pale shades. Team soft pastel colours with crisp white to keep the room light and fresh, adding blue/grey tones for a tranquil relaxed touch. Opt for functional, wooden furniture and keep window dressing to a minimum with light sheers and pretty floral curtains. Finish off by adding lots of decorative accessories.

Modern. Strong and bold defines the ultra-modern look. Rich dark wood and black furniture are the main focus, complemented with accessories in hot red or lacquered steel.

The latest dark wooded tables, shelving and storage chests give any room a strong, contemporary feel. Soften this dramatic look with blonde coloured flooring, pale walls and soft lighting.

Add a splash of scarlet to black leather seating with smooth cushions and throws and display glassy red lacquer ware on the table. Make a statement with a black wrought iron table lamp and hang curtains on a dark coloured curtain rail.

Colour. The explosion of brightly coloured paints and fabrics on the market has led people to become much more confident experimenting with bold colours and paint techniques.

While the popularity of fun bright colours will continue, there is also a growing demand for softer tones. With our increasingly hectic lifestyles it's no surprise that we should want to create a relaxed, calm sanctuary at home.

Colour has an amazing effect on our mood and emotions. Simply painting a room with soft colours can create a sense of calm and well being.

Popular colours to look out for are sun-bleached neutrals, soft sand and rich earth tones. Darker more intense shades are evocative browns, rich minerals and natural autumnal tones.

Soft pale shades to look out for are watery blues, cool greens and cloudy greys. Pale blues and greys are set to be particularly popular in 2001.

At the other end of the spectrum, vegetable green, sunny golds and rich terracottas can be used on their own or as a contrast to softer tones.

For example, a brightly coloured vase will liven up any neutral scheme.

Designs To Look Out For Strong, simply lined furniture is here to stay. Wherever you look the emphasis is on spacious, calm home interiors.

Classically shaped furniture undoubtedly adds a certain appeal to a room.

Blending modern with old is nothing to be afraid of; to see if it suits you, try mixing quirky modern ceramics and accessories with old favourites.

Wood and natural fibres complete the natural look