Introducing modern furnishings to old surroundings is a clever and effective formula to an otherwise predictable style, it creates an exciting and opulent scheme. So, repeat one furniture material throughout: lacquer which is glamorous and unusual. Build up the deep-colour theme of claret for the coffee table and console with the jet black of the side tables and chair and as a focal point use a vibrant vase on a black and white bone-inlaid side table. The finishing touches to the interiors set are just as important. Select a light colour to balance the overall tone, like starched white. This we have achieved to good effect by sourcing products with white in them, like the rug, bone side table, drink mats, photo-frames and cushions. The end result is stunningly smart and yet luxuriously comfortable and practical.