MOST PEOPLE ARE LIKELY to stay put in their existing property in 2009. Until house prices have stabilised doing up the house seems like a good idea if you've the funds; and , of course, you'll probably have the time to enjoy any improvements before moving on. This is the thinking of many interior designers and commentators on the property market. Shabby Chic - now re-invented as Downturn Chic or Austerity Chic - with its homely, comfortable feel is forecast as the defining trend this year.

More people are expected to stay at home and entertain rather than go out to restaurants. The kitchen will become even more the centre of family life, but a comfy, homely atmosphere rather than the recent minimalistic, stark, in-your-face black, white, beige, brown colours, is a likely preference.

After an extension and loft conversion the kitchen creates the most potential for value improvement. If you're likely to be moving on in the next few years then opt for a popular style. Those intending to stay put for longer can afford to indulge their individualistic or idiosyncratic tastes and have strident, colouful walls and fixtures. With everyone climbing on the Shabby Chic band waggon we'll see a return to mix-and-match. Antiques - perhaps bargains hunted out in fairs and garage sales - will make a come back.Petworth in West Sussex, a mecca for antique lovers, should be on your new itinerary. Also visits to barns specialising in antique renovation may prove worthwhile; and kitchen & home accessory shops like Cabbage White in Midhurst with Susie Watson designs on 01730 814555 shop@cabbage-white.com - Guildford Cathedral above left.

For more on Downturn or Austerity Chic this Times article on Januay 9th 2009 is a good read....