I spend more time in my sitting room than anywhere else. It's a medium-sized room with one large window that overlooks the small front garden and, unfortunately, the local bus stop! It's not a beautiful room but it's very comfortable. I like a feeling of space so there's no unnecessary furniture -- just a sofa, armchairs, a couple of small, low tables and a table for the telephone. I have two wicker trunks that I use for storage purposes but they also provide extra seating when I have lots of visitors. I also have a small television but I'm thinking of moving it into the bedroom because I hardly ever watch it.

　　I had the room decorated when I moved in. I chose white paint to make it light and increase the feeling of space. The fitted carpet is greyish-blue, the curtains are deep blue velvet, the sofa is dark pink and the armchairs are covered in a grey, blue and dark pink flowered material. I covered them myself and am rather proud because they look quite professional. The furniture was mostly either given to me or bought second-hand from the local sale rooms. I painted all the tables black because they were all quite old and shabby. They now look as good as new! The overall effect in the room is one of calm and peacefulness.

　　My mother is always suggesting that I should have more pictures and ornaments to "brighten the place up". She loves colourful rooms and thinks my sitting room is rather boring! I only have a couple of pictures on the walls. One is a Chinese landscape painting, a scroll, actually, painted by a friend. The other is an Indian scene with lots of people and an elephant, preparing for a long journey. I love it because it makes me think of travelling. It's probably my favourite possession. I've had it since I was a student. The only other decorative items are four or five plants.

　　Some people comment that the room looks like a church because I have two large candle holders! They were given to me years ago by a Chinese student--so, as well as being beautiful, they have great sentimental value. I use them sometimes in the evenings when friends visit. I think candlelight creates a warm, intimate atmosphere. I also have two low lamps. I don't really like bright, overhead lighting.

　　The sitting room has been the same ever since I moved into the house. I suppose I'll redecorate at some point in the future, and perhaps even buy some new furniture. But, for the moment, I'm quite happy with it and don't see any reason to change it.