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MAKING SENSE OF ACCESSORIES
Whatever style home you live in, accessorizing it can be a make or break
situation. When do lamps, pillows, vases, art prints, 3-D objects,
painted plates, florals and memorabilia enhance and define a room, and
when do they overwhelm and disorient the viewer from the real focal
points pf the room?
From a design standpoint that means that whatever you place on the walls
and surfaces should be in proportion to the size of the room and its
furniture, elements should balance each other, the color should
harmonize with the main color scheme, and there should be variety in
size and shape.
So what about the hummels, the pictures, and the souvenirs? Unless your
intention is to create your décor based on the collections you own, you
should keep the number of decorative objects under control, and you
should be careful about placement.
Hummels for example, are out of proportion to the size of mantles, so
the make them conform to the size of the living room, they should be
placed in a lighted cabinet that will amplify the many into one large
entity.
The cabinet holding such collectibles can serve as a contrast to the
solid surface of an entertainment center, and it can also balance the
weight of a large armoire.
Within the bookcases, curios and china cabinets that contain
collections, avoid overcrowding, and don’t add extraneous objects that
detract from the overall effect. Think of adding larger round or square
shaped items in with smaller items for contrast and variety. Too many
similar items in the same space make it difficult for the viewer to
appreciate each piece.
In the same vein, family photos do not have the intended impact if
multitudes are placed on consoles and mantles. It’s far better to put
one on the mantle, mixed with other accessories, and perhaps one or two
photos on a nearby end table. Replace the pictures in these frames
instead of always adding on to them.
Grouping family pictures in a pleasing shape, such as a rectangle,
square or oval, on a family room or hallway wall, will be pleasing if
the framing is similar, or better yet, identical.
Simplifying the décor to its most important elements, which includes the
decorative accessories, is truly the most satisfying goal. We are drawn
to the rooms featured in home décor magazines because everything seems
to fall into place. That look is attainable if we take action.
Begin by putting all utilitarian items such as keys, papers, magazines,
CDs, etc., behind closed doors. Then edit all your accessories. Gather
the ones that you truly love then store the rest or give them to an
appreciative friend or relative. Place your treasures in a logical way
that creates a balanced pattern that allows each to shine.
Rotate stored items occasionally, and record and photograph items you
have deleted to keep vivid memories. Memories are better than dusting
any day.
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