Accessories: Interior Design's Finishing Touches
By Kathy A. JohnsonInterior Design School Review Columnist
Accessories reveal the personality of the home's residents and add that extra punch that makes a design project complete. Often, an interior designer will be able to use treasured items already owned by the client.
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Few home design elements are as versatile and inexpensive as accessories. Sometimes the simplest items have the most impact. A small candle burning in a dark hallway or fresh flowers on an end table lend warmth. Books look great on their own, or add visual interest when used to elevate small items. Textiles like throws, pillows, or rugs add texture to a room. Here are three ways you can use accessories in interior design:
- Display collections. Collections of items make great accessories. Items in a collection can be the same color, subject, or of a similar shape, but they don't have to be the same style or period. Small treasures like shells or buttons can be mounted and framed for more impact.
- Expand on a theme or style. Choice of accessories can emphasize the "theme" of a room--a watering can and botanical prints in a room with a garden theme, for example. Accessories also echo the style of the home or room.
- Change with the seasons. Change bed linens, throw pillows, or area rugs to reflect the changing seasons. Art prints and other decorative accents can be changed with the season and lend freshness to rooms.
About the Author:
Kathy A. Johnson has written articles on health, fitness, and many other topics in her career as a freelance writer and editor. She lives in Florida, and is the features editor of Forum, a bimonthly publication of the national mothers group, Mothers & More.
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