Shelves can tell a story. So can windowsills, walls and beautifully cluttered corners. We spoke to five tastemakers about the objects they’re drawn to over and over again – and take a peek at the pieces that bring joy, character and meaning to their homes

Sunny yellows, sassy stripes, cloudscapes and even butterflies – this London home is designed to raise a smile

Craft is used in a smart way in the bedroom of this London pied-à-terre, where Sarah Peake, founder of Studio Peake, has honed a scheme that pays thoughtful attention to detail and embraces the owner’s love of fabric.

When our new-build estate became increasingly busy with lots of families, we decided to move somewhere a bit quieter with period features. At first, we made an offer on a different apartment, but the

As we head into spring, embrace opulent textures and jubilant prints

If our homes reflect who we are, style becomes more than decorative – it’s personal, says Emily Henson