It's said there's a world of difference between a room designed by a professional interior designer and one done by a home decorator. From balancing colour schemes to hanging artwork, planning lighting and even positioning curtains, designers have a box of tricks that can turn an average scheme into a fabulous space.

We've rounded up some of the trade's best-kept secrets for you to take your own décor to the next level. Click or scroll through but, shh – just keep it quiet...