IF YOU'RE still clinging to neutrals and are nervous about dipping your toe into a technicolour world, help is at hand.

Greeny-blue teal is set to star in decor, and it's a colour that could tempt even the most timid to break free from bland and splash on a shade that's a sure-fire winner.

Chosen by Dulux as its colour of the year, teal truly has the power to be transformative.

It's also easy on the eye and blends beautifully with the brown hues of natural materials like wood and stone.

“Deeper and more sophisticated than turquoise, teal has a subdued richness and a mysterious quality which captures the grandeur of vast lakes and undiscovered forests,” says Rebecca Thompson, Dulux's senior colour and design manager.

“To create the latest look, combine teal with other tones of teal, green or blue to create a tone-on-tone effect,” she suggests. “For an an oceanic feeling that’s cool, dynamic and welcoming, layer teal with indigo, denim or navy.”

If you want to warm a scheme, contrast teal with details in coral or delicate blush tones, mustard yellows or burnt orange.

“Teal's one of those colours that encourages budding interior designers to make bold choices because even in its strongest tone, it still feels calming and comfortable,”

agrees Nichola McFall, brand manager at The Fabric Box. “Teal transcends all seasons and suits a range of interior styles.”