Back to: How to Choose Accessories
Select a color scheme.
The accessories can be a wide variety of things—paintings, family heirlooms, dollar store knickknacks—the key to cohesion is color. An analogous color palette will unite even the quirkiest of items and create a sense of unity amongst them.
Layer It
No matter the accessories, it is important to layer the pieces to create a sense of depth. Pair large photos with small lamps, or add mirrors to a photo wall to instill a glamorous feeling into the space.
Create Negative Space
All spaces, even the boldest, need some breathing room. A saturated area of bold layering and beautiful colors can combine seamlessly when given distance for each to stand out and space for the viewer to pause before the next exciting piece.
Create Categories
Grouping together similar items can create a high-impact area in a room. Family photos, souvenirs, and children’s artwork can make a curated collection of unique pieces and conversation starters. The space will look cohesive and coordinated by grouping items together by theme, color, or size.
Stick with One finish
Utilize a simple and single color or metallic finish to coordinate any selection of accessories. Covering accessories of all shapes and sizes with a monochrome finish will make the pieces look well-selected and intentional, no matter how different they may be. This method will maximize the visual interest and is a great way to repurpose old items with a fresh finish.
A Good Book
Beautiful coffee table books or special collections are easy to revitalize a space. Books can be placed horizontally, vertically, diagonally, or in any way to add height and dimension to a room. They can be used in border areas or even as standalone artwork.
Strength in Numbers
Especially if there are a collection of items, such as clocks or candles, gathering like pieces together can create a stunning and eye-catching display. The grouping of objects will create a stronger visual than if one item was present and is an excellent way to show off any favorite collectibles or accessories.
Appropriate Proportions
It’s important to choose accessories that match the scale of the space. Smaller pieces will look even smaller when placed against an ample space. Especially when considering rugs or wall art, it is essential to consider how the accessory’s size influences the room’s feeling.
Framing
Use block items such as trays or books to outline a space. This method can box other accessories together to create a framed collection rather than scattered knickknacks. The frame’s various heights, shapes, and colors create a visually appealing and exciting vignette.
Vary Heights
Grouping together pieces of different heights encourages the viewer to see the entire display rather than brush over it. This method can help elongate a room or wall and create depth in an otherwise boxy or plain room.
Mix It Up
Mixing textures and fabrics can create an intriguing display in a space. Using various surfaces, such as combining a velvet couch with a fur blanket or a cotton bedspread with silk sheets, can create an intriguing textural display.
Tone Symmetry
Mixing tones in accessories can create a nice offset and visually exciting space. Putting in cool accessories in a warm-tone room or adding jewel tones to a muted space can allow additions to catch the eye better and create a unique visual display.
Flower Power
Need a bit more life in the room? Add some colorful flowers or plants to freshen up the space. Fresh flowers bring energy into the home and are often the easiest way to spruce up an old room quickly.
Lighting, Lighting, Lighting
Perhaps the essential part of any interior remodeling is the lighting. Lighting fixtures can be accessories or be more hidden and allow for other items to take center stage.
Balance
Asymmetrical designs can be an exciting and impressive visual piece of any space. To best offset the accessories, use other elements like height or texture to create a sense of balance amidst the asymmetry.