Accessorizing your home is an important aspect in the design process. You can add character and beauty to a home in many ways.
Look at your home and decide what theme you want to accomplish. Is it a contemporary, country, southwest, or a traditional style? Look in magazines, books or online to find accessories you would like. Have at least one favorite statement piece in every room. Purchase accessories that go with the theme and color of your room – color choices should complement the main color in the room.
Grouping Accessories
It is recommended to group your accessories with different heights and textures. For example, a night side table can have a lamp, picture frame and small pot of flowers as a grouping.
The Grand Entry way
Entry ways should be uncluttered. This area of the home is the first hint at what the rest of your home is like. A side table with your most dramatic or unusual accessories will set the tone in this important area of your home.
Hanging Pictures
Pictures should be hung so that the middle of the picture is at eye level. Art work should be placed no more than five to eight inches above the sofa or seven to ten inches above a table.
Stacking Bookshelves
Bookcases are often cluttered. Try to vary the size of the shelves vertically for interest. Vary the heights of books with the tallest in the middle. Don’t put small books next to tall books. You can also mix and match books with ornaments but make the books the focal point. Place a plant on the top shelf for balance.
All About Lighting
Lighting is an important element in accessorizing your home. Accent a large picture with a spot light to enhance a focal point in a room. Lighting creates ambiance and should coordinate with the theme you want to create.
An Area Rug as an Accent
Area rugs can define a space and pull a room together. Place furniture completely on the rug for a warmer effect. Area rugs used under a dining room table should be large enough to accommodate the chairs when fully pulled out.
The Added Touch of a Pillow
Use many pillows on the bed as this can add a splash of color in a bedroom. Vary colors and patterns of pillows and graduate the sizes from large to small. Pillows are also great on a sofa and will add character to a dull living room.
Mirror, Mirror on the Wall
Mirrors are great to expand a smaller space. Try a large mirror that stands on the floor attached to the wall behind a small dining room table. You can also attempt to lean a tall mirror behind a bed as a head board for a dramatic look.
The Spa Appeal
Bathrooms can have a spa appeal by placing clear glass bowls filled with colored soaps, bath salts or bubble bath beads on the bathroom counter. Candles are also nice on a bathtub. Low lighting with lit candles will help reduce stress and can be relaxing.
The Gourmet Kitchen
Kitchens can also be accessorized to create a gourmet feel. Hang copper pots and pans from a wire rack above to add color. Grow a few herb plants on a kitchen window sill to use in your cooking and add wonderful aromas. A large bowl of fruit on the kitchen table can be fresh or artificial. Prints are also a welcome addition on kitchen walls.
Have fun trying out new things. Shop around for different accessories for your home. Try antique stores, consignment shops or flea markets for ideas. Do not mix beautiful furniture with cheap accessories. First impressions are everything: accessories can make or break the ambiance of your home. Be creative and trust your instincts.
