Top tips: How to get tickled pink

It's been chosen as the colour of the year for 2011 by shade experts Pantone. It is energising, uplifting and confidence boosting. It sets pulses racing and is reminiscent of everything good - from flowers to sunsets. It is pink.

Karlstad chaise longue in Sagrada Blossom from Designers Guild at Bemz

Pink is optimistic. Pink is self-assured. Pink is fresh. Pink is vital. Pink says candy and ice cream and I love you. Pink is all about feeling good. Here are some top tips on how you can pack a punch this summer with this shade of choice. What's not to love about pink?

Photo c/o Bentheim

Think outside the box: by painting the doorway a bright pink not only adds energy to an otherwise dark space but also is unexpected and fun. How can you help but smile when you walk through that door?

Tylosand sofa in Tegner Melange Fuchsia from Bemz

Modernise you sofa in one fell swoop by choosing a vibrant fuchsia for it. 

Photos c/o Bisazza

Who says the bathroom has to be blue or white. So predictable! Make a statement with lustrous pink mosaics in a variety of shades, interspersed with whites along with specks of gold to create a stunning and bright backdrop to the white sink and toilet while still maintaining warmth in the space.

Photos c/o Dulux

Partner pinks in several shades to make an impact. Soft pinks work well with pale greens or throw deep colours together for a statement.

Klippan 4 seater in Bayshore Magenta from Designers Guild at Bemz

If you want to add a pink vibe without changing the whole room, use pink accents on accessories like a pink floor lamp, pink cushions in all its wonderful shades or why not even a vibrant pink carpet?

Barkaby chair in Gustavian Flowers - Dusty Rose

The palest of pinks keeps the scheme subtle yet feminine keeping the look personal and cosy.

Tomelilla armchair in Fandango - Red by Marimekko at Bemz

Soften a space and any hard edges using elegant, pretty motifs on fabrics.

Klippan sofa in Flamingo Park Fuchsia from Designers Guild at Bemz

Pink gives florals a contemporary edge. Go graphic and choose inverted tradition - where the design is monochromatic set on a pink backdrop. This makes the design more graphic looking and gives an overall more modern effect.

Credit: Livingetc, June 2011 issue