Before you buy anything new, consider which accent pieces should go and which
have truly earned a place in your heart. Often, what you part with will give
you the greatest peace of mind. That’s because household clutter can lead to stress.
Besides, being organized can look as good as it feels. Stylish storage pieces
make everything easy to find. Leather bins keep magazines and catalogs at bay,
while decorative boxes put paper in its place. Since electronics, such as
computers, TVs, and stereos, have become less cumbersome, they free up space
for the essentials, like CD and DVD holders.
Candles are always comforting, and the endless choices continue to grow. For
those who have little hands and paws at home, the new battery-operated candles
offer a great alternative to traditional wicks.
Pillows and throws are pretty enough to display every day. Add some to your
sofas and chairs to encourage family and friends to sit down and stay awhile.
Trays, which can be used for entertaining, are also perfect for paperwork that
needs to be transported from one room to the next.
Mood lighting adds an element of warmth to any setting. The right mix of floor
and table lamps can take a room from dull to high-drama with the flip of a
switch. Proper lighting is also essential when creating a cozy reading corner
or home office space.
Surround yourself with family photos for that oh-so-familiar feeling. Just one
look at the friendly faces inside your favorite frames is enough to make anyone
feel welcome. Black-and-white photos have a classic feel while color adds a
hint of fun. Whatever you decide, group the frames together for more impact.
Greenery can help soften the hard edges in a room, such as corners and
cabinetry. Whether you prefer the live or the silk variety, there is something
about plants that puts people at ease. Books also add beauty to any space. Opt
for the coffee table version or more literary finds. Either way, blending your
books with other objects of interest creates a delightful display.
Plates and cups can find their way outside the
kitchen. When arranged in creative compositions, they add comfort and charm to
any space. Display a series of dishes along a wall and turn your teacups into
containers for flowers.
Upgrade your towels and linens for a little added
luxury each day. Go through the current stock in your linen closet to determine
what has seen better days. Bed and bath products have become more affordable,
so buying something beautiful won’t break the bank.
Collections of any kind give your home that lived-in look. There is nothing more
comforting to first-time visitors than learning something new about the people
who live there. Pieces from the past provide that kick-up-your-feet feeling as
their simplicity stirs thoughts of days gone by. It can be rewarding to rework
your family heirlooms to suit your current lifestyle. So, go ahead and change
an item’s paint color or its purpose.
