The saying “less is more” can
actually work in a big, bold design premise when it comes to quantity. Some people find layering little trinkets and
accessories too fussy for their style or skill level. Instead of trying to master the perfect
arrangement of many pieces, focus on larger statement items to make your rooms
pop.
To give a more subdued furniture
arrangement some life, let a graphic printed rug make a statement from the
ground up. Or hang drapery panels from
the ceiling height in wide stripes or another large repeating pattern to draw
the eye up. Instead of a cluster of
smaller frames or canvases you select for a wall grouping, hang an oversized
wrapped canvas with a simple, large scale image on it on a blank wall space. If your “builder beige” home leaves the
backdrop in each room a little too muted, paint an accent wall here and there
in an attractive accent color, which will enhance anything you hang in there,
large or small.
Within a more plain bedroom
design, throw in a surprising end-of-the-bed bench or ottoman, or add a comfy
side chair, all in a stand-out pattern.
To dress up a blank entry or hallway, position a chest of drawers or
buffet in a painted color instead of a standard wood stain finish. If outfitting a dining room table with layers
of linens and dishes and centerpiece components is not your norm, let design be
served up in that room every day of the week with beautiful upholstered dining
chairs with some eye-catching color in their fabric.
Trying to really give your home a
fresh look amid a simpler canvas can be overwhelming if you think your shopping
list may very well drag the ground.
Instead of thinking about quantity, look into some quality pieces on a
large scale that can make big impacts where you choose to place them. Area rugs, draperies, upholstered and painted
furniture, and big wall art all take up designer space in style.
DesignInMind column; appeared in the Valley Morning Star May 19th.
