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| A neutral room is completed with a selection of nature-inspired accessories. |
1) Make it FABULOUS: One of the hottest trends for 2011 is personalization of spaces. When shopping for accessories to add the finishing touches to your rooms, choose pieces that have meaning for you. Add a unique vase, platter, artwork or pillow if it excites you when you see it. Keep in mind that fewer pieces in a larger scale work well. Your scenario...you see a nested set of boxes that's nice, but a handmade Peruvian vase has warmth and texture and makes you feel fabulous. Purchase the vase and work it into your decor. You want to go 'green' but want an interesting space. Use large scale soy candles in glass hurricanes and combine them with rocks, shells, or other natural findings. Add unusual plant for color and mirrors to reflect light.
2) Be sure it's USEFUL. When you add pieces, try thinking of how it may change over time. A lidded glass canister might serve as a terrarium, a centerpiece for a special event when filled thematically, and even become a candle holder. You found a pair of textured candles but you know you don't feel safe burning them...instead, buy the lamp you liked instead and get design and function together.
3) Is it NECESSARY? If your selection adds another item to a group but really doesn't call attention to the design, then don't add it. Want formality? Then do add pieces to create symmetry which is ideal for traditional spaces. Asymmetry is casual but be careful to balance your grouping. When adding new pieces, vary their heights for visual interest. Consider using accent colors rather than the same ones in your furnishings.