Shoparound: When it comes to patterned wallpaper and funky fabrics, big is still big, but hints of more muted tones are on the horizon.

The trend for bold patterns in feature walls and signature upholstered pieces continues unabated this season. Vibrant and bursting with zest these prints and patterns are not for the fainthearted but are one sure way of jazzing up your interior.

While the trend for big and bold last year was "very much fashion led", there are more subdued tones on offer this season, according to Brian Nolan from Brian S Nolan in Dún Laoghaire.

"This year they are much more usable and will appeal to a much broader market," he said.

Big and bold can work anywhere, according to Nolan. In period homes you can dare to shock with high ceilings and lots of space, he said.

Not willing to stick with what's expected, people with older houses are prepared to go all out on strong fabrics and walls to generate a real "wow" factor, he said.

In smaller houses or apartments it's easier to go with feature walls and signature pieces, he adds.

Leading the way is funky UK fabric and wallpaper house Harlequin which has launched an assertive range of signature fabrics, called Lagoon, along with complementary wallpapers.

Bold and contemporary, the fabrics and wallpapers are inspired by the tropics and depict exotic overblown blooms and foliage in strong colour combinations, including lime, citrus, fuchsia, magenta, tangerine, coral and chocolate. Price around €40 a metre.

Meanwhile, flock wallpaper in turquoise, pinks and reds are the themes from Designers Guild at the moment. Price €45 a metre.

Prestigious Fabrics collection this spring includes retro patterns in strong colours but offers options in more muted tones, such as duck egg blue.

Price €20 a metre.

Brian S Nolan, 102 Upper George's Street, Dún Laoghaire, Co Dublin, Tel 01-2800564