Accessories around your home are one of those things that make the space feel “like a home,” but accessorizing well can be a challenging task to master. Creating a cohesive look that not only ties the room together but also enhances the feel of the space yet doesn’t feel cluttered, messy, or disjointed can be difficult without the help of an interior design professional. Accessories can be a great way to bring new life into your home, so we’ve rounded up some tips to help you get started and become an expert on your own.
Start with the basics.
Before going down a rabbit hole of where to start or what to buy, pick a color scheme. Color is the key to making accessories feel cohesive. As you bring a color or palette through multiple items like pillows, throws, or art, they will flow together with ease. Don’t be afraid to play with color – pops of bright yet analogous colors will unite the different elements bringing the whole look together.
Then add in layers.
Whether you’re decorating with flowers and plants, photos and art, or tabletop accessories like candles or vases, adding in layers creates depth. Lamps, mirrors, and small metallic accessories are simple ways to add depth to the space while also creating that sense of cohesion.
Create negative space.
Just as important as layers is negative space – this is what prevents that messy feel we’re trying to avoid. You can always go bold with bright colors and mixing patterns and elements, textures, and finishes, but leaving negative space creates a little breathing room allowing those elements to pop without feeling cluttered. Feel free to go bold with accessories in color and elements against the negative space of a white wall, or break up the finishes with clear vases, glass frames, or a mirror to give pause to the elements with more personality.
Keeping it simple.
Is accessorizing still a bit intimidating? Choose one metallic finish or color you love and group a variety of accessories in that finish for a big impact. Using accessories of different shapes and sizes will create depth and layers. Consider vases, candles, decorative bowls, frames, and artwork that you might already have in your home and bring them all together in one space to start an accessories collection without buying anything new.
Use books.
Particularly in kids’ rooms, books can be an easy and effective way to accessorize. Stacking them horizontally adds height, vertically creates borders, or even use a particularly colorful or fun cover as an accessory all it’s own. For a more artistic look in an office or great room, turning books so that the pages face outward can create a monochromatic, softer look.
The right proportions.
Choosing accessories that match the scale and size of the room is important – for example, a small piece of art on a large wall would make the art appear even smaller. Choosing wall decor or an area rug that are just the right size for the space will end up defining the room perfectly.
Designing a room with accessories doesn’t have to be as intimidating as it may seem. Start out with one space in your home and focus on integrating these tips, and you’ll be a master before you know it.