Accessories and Accents
Creative Clutter
Nothing gives character to a room like great accessories and accent colors with different elements to bring everything together.
Depending on the current style that you are interested in or if you like to follow trends, adding accessories can be fun to incorporate your own personality.
Some like to follow a minimalist look, while others crave what I call “creative-clutter”.
Portraits and Pictures
We all have mementoes from the past, unique, quirky pieces or even beautifully framed pictures of loved ones we treasure and like to put on display. Some designers say that family portraits are too 1980’s and shouldn’t be used, but I really think they are making a comeback due to the cozy, warm look that is very popular now.
If you have watched any period piece, historical movie, you would of noticed all the family Portraits that were splashed on practically every wall. Almost overwhelming in some rooms and at the same time, interesting and beautiful. So, no, pictures are not going out of style; they were in style forever.
Accessories can be anything
From elegant large vases that take up an empty corner space, dried floral arrangements, plants, books (which is one of my favorites to decorate with), ceramics or really anything creative that you enjoy as a hobby, etc., is perfectly fine. The list goes on and on and rightfully so, because there are so many beautiful and fun ways to add elements to any room. Mirrors and even wall hangings (rugs and tapestry) are beautiful to any space as well, so don’t be afraid to go that route if you feel inclined to. Huge tapestries adorned just about any Royal Castle and/or Estate Home back in the day. It was their “wallpaper” of choice and really made a statement.
The smallest touches add flair and fun
Elements that wouldn’t normally catch another’s attention, could be as simple as adding a little flair to cabinet hardware in the kitchen or cute door handles to every bedroom. Clocks are another favorite of mine and you can use as many as you like; they come in every size and shape. Whether it’s a wall mounted clock, a mantel clock or a large Grandfather piece. They always add beautiful elegance to any room.
Artistic Paintings are another great choice to use for decoration. While many people take a lot of time to choose these options, (due to the fact that you are putting them on a wall permanently) it’s a good thing to consider, because they are very personal and can take up a good amount of space, so you really want to get that right.
There really isn’t a hard and fast rule about Accessories when it comes to design. Some like a little and some like a lot. Just be sure that whatever you choose, create the “balance” that I discussed earlier in my other posts, so that everything is somewhat symmetrical and the current flow of the house isn’t interrupted. That “flow” that I’m talking about is called “Space Planning” and it is the #1 design element that must be incorporated into every room. I’ve seen it time and time again when clients don’t measure correctly and purchase a beautiful piece and it doesn’t fit or it overwhelms the space.
In summary, just keep in mind that whatever you are attempting to add to any wall or space, the item must be correct in size, shape and definitely color. Even eclectic styles that appear to be “hodgepodge” to most, adding elements of all kinds of design everywhere, if decorated correctly, can be very attractive and give you a sense of warmth, comfort, elegance and inspiration. If not, you may be left with an expensive disaster in your wall or the piece(s) itself. So, investigate and do research on what you are attempting to add, so you get it right the first time. Hire a designer or ask a friend for her opinion. It’s always nice to get a second set of eyes on your project. It will give you confidence in your decisions.
