Design is a complicated arrangement that comes to life when the big pieces and the small sidekicks blend together in harmony. There’s no single element that captures the spirit of a great design plan because it’s the intertwining of elements that creates an outstanding design.
Having said that, there are some decor pieces that I always rely on when a space needs some pieces that will elevate the great bones of the home. Decor can only do so much and won’t make up for poor design but it can enhance a wonderful design that needs a bit of elevation. All great design starts with designing a home that reflects you but if you need help with that read this post.
Here are my go-to decor pieces that will make an impact on your space:
1/ Statement Mirrors
Hanging a mirror in a dark entryway is a trick designers love to bring some brightness to this area but don’t stop there. Mirrors can actually add a dramatic effect to your space if they are also interesting to look at.
Oversized standing mirrors or large floor mirrors can add light to a space but can also draw your eye to an area you’d like to emphasize. For instance, a large mirror with a textural frame suddenly becomes an eye catching and functional piece of art.
If you don’t have room for an oversized mirror but want a dramatic look, shop for interesting shapes and textures that will draw the eye in. A pink enamelled mirror or a gold mirror with hand carved detail will add a sense of importance to a space. Treat the frame as a piece of art and look for frames that fit into your space.
2/ Floor to Ceiling Drapery
Drapery is always one of the best ways to take your home from feeling drab to fab. Having undressed windows gives your home an unfinished look. If your budget permits it, I strongly recommend custom drapery but even panels from big box stores will elevate your space.
If you really want to go big I recommend hanging your drapery close to the ceiling for a dramatic effect. This creates a luxurious and timeless look that will elevate even the most basic space.
If light control and privacy are concerns, always opt for curtains that are wide enough to close completely. Otherwise, hang panels at the side of your windows to give a polished look to your space.
3/ Oversized Artwork
Artwork is another decor item that always looks great and works wonders to elevate a room. There are so many options for affordable and beautiful art. I even love seeing kids artwork framed and hung in a space that needs some additional colour. It can be a budget friendly way to create a really cute conversation piece.
Oversized artwork works overtime and can grab your attention and hold it. It’s bold enough to stand strong even when you’re short on other decor pieces. If you have an oversized piece of art you will immediately create an interesting space.
Art can be expensive but if you’re patient and look in the right places you can find gorgeous pieces at affordable prices. Go to art markets during the summer and scour thrift and consignment stores. And Etsy is a great place to look for one-of-a-kind pieces that will finish off your space.
4/ Bold Accent Chair
We don’t generally think of chairs as decor but they can be. A bold, geometric fabric can make an accent chair the centrepiece of a modern room. A chair covered in faux fur or a red and black check looks great in an all-year cottage. Regardless of your design style, a chair can be a significant factor in decorating a space so consider them your best decor item.
If you don’t currently own anything that will work but you love the idea, you can find inexpensive chairs in unique shapes and sizes at consignment stores and estate sales. Have the piece upholstered in your favourite fabric and you’ve just created a wonderfully unique decor piece.
5/ Coffee Table Books
I love using books for styling because the texture adds something aesthetically interesting. If you have small corners to fill, books are a great way to add visual interest. I generally like to use vintage items but any books will work.
Coffee table books are wonderful decor pieces because they can stand alone or as part of a grouping with just a couple of small decor pieces accompanying them. Often the size and scale of the coffee table book is all you need so it’s always a good investment. I think it can be much more beautiful to have fewer large items as opposed to several smaller ones.
6/ Lamps in Unexpected Places
Lamps are necessary but don’t always deliver a big punch when it comes to design. Often they disappear into the background, particularly during the daytime when not in use. Most of us don’t have nearly enough lighting but read this post to learn about the 3 types of lighting you need in every room.
Oversized lamps or lamps made from unexpected materials are always eye-catching and can be your best decor piece. I love a rattan floor lamp in a coastal home but I also love to see small or whimsical lamps in the kitchen, powder room and even laundry room. These are unexpected and will be excellent conversation starters.
For those of us who are known to frequent the kitchen during the evening looking for a snack, a small lamp can provide the perfect amount of ambient light without having to keep the overhead lights on.
7/ Sculptural Objects
Sculptural objects should always be considered when your space needs a little something extra. If you’ve ever sat in a part of your home and were stuck with what’s missing, ask yourself if a sculptural object could alleviate the issue.
I love to include busts, spheres, worn wood objects and natural objects like shells or coral when I’m decorating a space. These give character to a space and tell a unique story. I love that these pieces aren’t available at every retailer so your pieces feel unique and special.
8/ Collections
When I’m hired to decorate a space my preference is always to use pieces that have special meaning to the family. Sometimes I discover amazing collections that have been tucked into closets and these are the hidden treasures I adore.
You may have a collection of postcards from around the world or your mom’s teacup collection. Whatever it is, put it on display and treat it like amazing decor. These unique collections create the soul of a home and I love seeing them displayed.
You can see the power of a collection from the image above. Just one or two of those vessels would be pretty but underwhelming. It’s when they’re grouped together that it feels like true artistic inspiration.
9/ Pillows
This one may seem obvious because most homes have at least a few decorative pillows but are you taking advantage of the full power of pillows? This is a perfect opportunity to add colour, pattern and texture to your space. The addition of a few, well selected pillows can elevate the overall aesthetic of your space.
Decor always helps to reinforce your design style so don’t grab the first pillows you see when shopping. Instead, look for patterns and colours that complement the rest of your pieces. If your home is filled with colour you may be in need of some texture. Take inventory of what’s missing in your room before you start shopping.
Pillows are so inexpensive so change them up seasonally. It can be fun to switch the pillow covers to give a new personality to your space with each changing season.
10/ Vases & Vessels
Vases, vessels and pottery are definitely the work horses of decorating. They offer gorgeous shape and texture to a space but they can also add vertical height to taller areas that feel empty. And by adding branches, leaves and flowers to them we can really emphasize the height and make a statement without breaking the bank.
This is another one of those categories where you’ll find some of the best pieces in consignment stores. Yes, there are plenty of big box stores selling these items but the most unique shapes and colour combinations will be found in older objects
I hope this gives you some insight into how much decor matters when it comes to your home. These items can make the biggest difference and create a home you truly love. If you’re considering changes to your home, reach out to me. I’d love to hear about how I can help with designing and decorating your home.
