How to Decorate with Accessories in 5 Steps

Posted on: August 4th, 2016

It can be astonishing how small decorative accessories can make a high impact on your spaces character. Interior Designers know the influence that rugs, lighting, throw pillows, art and small accessories can have on a space, and know how to use them properly. Unfortunately, accessories and small décor can also clutter your space, and be uninviting. Decorative items are the most inexpensive way to freshen the space but can easily overtake the home. These simple tips for decorating with accessories can help you pull together your room like a pro and avoid the common mistakes many make with their décor.

1. Combine Textures & Colors

When having neutral large furnishings and fixtures, you can use small, inexpensive accessories to break out with pops of bold colors and varying textures. Accessories can be used to add visual interest and contract in the space, and can be easily altered or exchanged to fit changing moods, styles or seasons.

2. Add them in Layers

Accessories should be thought of like decorations on a cake. Large accessories should be placed first but sparingly, while medium and small accessories fill in and add balance where needed. Several small accessories can give the ‘feel’ of a large item when grouped together, but don’t forget to add some breathing room. Not every nook and cranny needs to be filled with décor; this will make your space feel cluttered.

3. Choose Accessories in Proportion

We’ve all seen spaces where someone has chosen a small rug in a giant-sized room and awkward walls where a large piece of art is crammed into a small space. Before choosing your accessories, take the time to study the scale and proportion of your space.

4. Choose Quality Over Quantity

When it comes to room accessories, less is often more. One specially chosen, unique piece may work better in the space than loads of tiny knick-knacks.

5. Consider Asymmetrical Arrangements

Mantles are often decorated with mirrors or art and flanked with a candle or vase of either side. When decorating with accessories, try balance instead of symmetry; group smaller items in odd numbers.

Finding the right accessories can be fun and enhance your home. Don’t be afraid to mix colors, layers, and texture by choosing pieces with varying heights, widths, and sizes. For a bolder contrast, mix vintage items in with new. First and foremost, always remember, if you don’t love it, leave it sitting on the store shelf.