The grey-blue bedroom of Dorset Lodge is a calm, soothing oasis, away from the fray.

Colortrend does a similar paint colour called Good Taste.

The white French-style furniture keeps the room looking light and fresh and adds a touch of elegance. London company Sweetpea Willow do a great range of French beds and headboards from around €690 (sweetpeaandwillow.com).

Blackrock-based Hilda O'Connor Interiors (01-210 8410) does a Chateau 5 Bordeaux Bed which costs from €1,450 for a 5ft 6in. For those who like their French furniture as ornate as possible, she also does a Chateau 5 Baroque Bed for €2,250, as well as a range of chandeliers, from €150.