There is one last step in the home design process that ties everything together and brings in character and life to a space – Accessorizing. Accessorizing is important because it brings warmth to a home and makes it feel lived in. In this blog, we share tips on accessorizing and how this can be done with ease.
Accessorizing can be about exploring themes and choosing the right colors and textures, but it can also be about one’s personal choices and includes smaller objects such as personal photographs, travel souvenirs, and quirks that make an individual or family for who they are.
Living room
Chandeliers, wall art, or photos and suitable ambient lighting are elements that could be considered for the living room. A single accent chair, a complimentary coffee or console table, a recliner or two and lounge chairs can set the ambience. It is important to remember here that the fabric or material used in these elements is a deciding factor in setting commonality in the space and design.
Bedroom Decor
The bedroom décor can affect the mind and can become taxing, if not done carefully. The most important considerations for the bedroom are the bed linen and drapery. As far as bed linen is considered, a good duvet cover and top sheet with a high thread count are worth investing into. Layering a bed with pillows and contrasting colors will add the dimension you need. The décor would involve choices including bed types, seating options, night tables, lamps, pillows, and even hanging lights. A day bed can be a good seating option for the bedroom if space allows for it.
Garden Decor
There is no dearth of accessorizing options these days for gardens. Plants and pebbles, ceramic pots, artificial lawns, bird shelters, small water bodies, and appropriate lighting can be used according to one’s tastes. With outdoor furniture like movable or stackable chairs, it is possible to make even a small balcony feel like a cozy space.
Kitchen and Table Decor
As far as kitchen décor is concerned, there are a few things that should be done away with. Dirty or old dish towels and clutter on the countertop. Any of the functional objects you would find in a kitchen such as fruits or canisters or soap dispensers could be used to accessorize your kitchen. These objects can add colour while being useful at the same time. Lighting is another important aspect of kitchen décor. Consider investing in under the counter lighting, as these can make a world of difference. This is especially true for the kitchen.
The fabric used for the dining chair cushions can be of two different colours. For instance, a slate grey and yale blue will make add colour and make the space look brighter. Table runners, salt and pepper shakers, candle stands, and good quality table mats are other accessories that could be considered for the table.
In the next section, we look at general accessories and décor items that can be considered for the home.
1. Cushions
Cushions with solid colours or vibrant patterns can be added to a bedroom or living room. Vibrant patterns would work well in a bigger space. An odd number of cushions of different sizes and colours, starting with larger cushions at the back, working towards the smaller ones in the front. For a large sofa, go with two cushions on either side. As far as colours are concerned, select from a colour palette, but avoid colours matching the sofa itself. For instance, a cream or beige coloured sofa can do with a pop of colour, so a rust orange or a shade of red will work for the cushions.
2. Throws & Blankets
A knit or fur throw can add warmth, both from a material and ambient point of view. These fabrics can add layers to space and has several functions. While they serve a decorative purpose, they can also be used as a slipcover for an outdated or old sofa. It also serves to keep one warm during chilly weather. Use the throw to blend in with the existing color palette by using a similar color to the couch, or a contrasting colour, if a pop of colour is needed. A sofa throw can be used on other pieces of furniture as well- A soft throw on a rocking chair or as a bed runner on the foot of the bed.
3. Poufs:
Poufs are versatile pieces of furniture. They can be used for extra seating, multipurpose accessory, a footrest, or as an ornamental central piece or a pull-out table. They are made in an assortment of shapes(cylindrical, round, or cube-like) and can add a dash of colour to the room as well.
4. Mirrors
Mirrors can make a space. It can just be a highlight to a plain wall or create an illusion of space in a small room. Mirrors – round, square, or rectangular can bring eyes on one object, transforming the look from bare to complete. Mirrors, if not by themselves can be accessorized with other elements such as trinkets, paintings, wall art, and showpieces.
5. Vases and candles
Vases come in different shapes, sizes, and materials. Accent vases are a great way of adding to the décor at home. These could include ceramic, earthen, or terracotta vases and work well in the garden, living, or patio. If you intend to use the vases for flowers, the best one to opt for vases that have an hourglass shape, flared at the bottom, narrow at the middle, and somewhat more open at the top.
Candles similarly can contribute not only to the visual delight of a space but also to add to fragrances in the room. Candles can be used in any room, bathrooms included. Aromatherapy candles have therapeutic uses and citronella candles keep bugs and insects away.
6. Flowers & Plants
An easy way of making a place look bright and lively is to use plants. Plants can be placed on tabletops either in the living or dining rooms, on kitchen window sills, and on shelves to break the monotony. White pots add a touch of elegance while grouping plants at a specific spot can also do the trick. Hanging plants from bookshelves can bring in a touch of the unexpected. A more standard option is to use a big pot next to the sofa in the living room. Some plants are air purifiers and can serve a purpose beyond just décor.
7. Wall art and accents
While wall art can become a focal point in a room, the type of art depends on individual taste. Whether it is abstract, traditional, or canvas prints, some factors should be considered. Of course, the size of the painting should be proportional to the wall. But also, the orientation of the painting will depend on the wall. Tall narrower walls will work best with paintings of similar orientation. Wall art doesn’t have to be limited to paintings alone. A collage of personal photographs and statement pieces such as metal art or a clock can also add convincingly to a space.
8. Spiritual corner
Most Indian homes have a corner or a room dedicated to religious or spiritual practices. These spaces should aim to calm minds, shifting focus from problems, and to rejuvenate oneself. This space could thus have – religious idols, incense holders, fragrant candles, bells, and prayer mats.
While most accessories can be picked off the shelf, in a store or from a website, we recommend that accessorizing a home should be done in stages. While you can take care of the basics such as bed linen, cushions, and rugs at the beginning, the smaller accessories can be added on later. The best accessories are unique, personal, and add meaning to the space.
The small elements inside a home play a big role in setting the ambiance. A single change in the color or lighting can impact the mood. With little effort, completing spaces can be an easy and economical exercise.