We Answer Wednesday - How To Decorate With a Theme

"I love the relaxed feel of the beach and I want to bring a beachy look into my space but I don't want my home to look over the top (cheesy). How can I decorate with a theme and not go overboard? "

A theme is a great source of inspiration when it comes to home decor.  But you are right, of you aren't careful you can get carried away and the theme can take over.

If you love the beach - this is a great start - you know what you want and like!  So think about the elements of the beach - soft and tonal colours, natural materials, easy fabrics, casual and relaxed are what you will want to see in the space, so look for pieces that have those features.  You don't necessarily need 'beach' items like shells, photos of the beach or nautical pieces but a few carefully selected items of this ilk can really solidify your theme.

Here's an example of a coastal inspired living room with the theme kept to a minimum.  Notice the soft tones, a few coral accents (the table and on the throw pillows), nautical stripes and a few touches of blue.  Overall this space has some beachy elements but the theme isn't super obvious.



Here's another example of a beach inspired living room. We see some natural wood pieces like the show stopping chandelier and the coffee table. We also see some white washed rattan accents.  there are some pops of soft blue like the sea and some beach glass accessories, too.



Here's the other side of that space, the dining area, we see a few more beach inspired pieces like the hurricane lanterns, the sea foam upholstered chairs and some sea shell decor on the built-in.



 Here's another example of a subtle beach theme in a bedroom.  Again we do not see obvious beach decor but the inspiration is definitely there.  Notice the sisal area rug it adds that natural texture.  The mix of soft and easy textures on the bed and the colour tones are natural beach hues. What really makes this room not scream 'beach theme' is the choice of prints in the throw pillows and drapery - the prints are quite traditional (trellis and floral) but in those tones.  So again you get this timeless looking space.  The canopy bed is so romantic something you would expect to see at luxurious beach resort.
 

 


If you are concerned about the longevity of the theme, keep the main elements neutral like paint, flooring, drapery and furniture - you can add in art, pillows and other accessories that embrace the theme.

When you want to decorate with a theme in mind you don't have to be too literal. Think about your chosen theme and why it has inspired you- what are the elements you love about this theme and take it from there.  If you do that, you will have a look that you love and a look that will last (a timeless look).

More, more, more Morocco!

Moroccan influence is everywhere! Fashion magazines, Travel blogs, Cooking shows, even America's Next Top Model has shot there and now Morocco is coming into your home! Check out any home decor magazine or store and you'll see the Moroccan influence.

So what are we seeing?

- gorgeous colours in vibrant and rich tones

- hand crafted bowls, sculptures, dishes and more

- stunning and detailed textiles

- embroidered pillows

- ornate rugs and carpets

- Sultan style light fixtures

Now how can you have some Moroccan inspiration without over doing it and looking like a Moroccan eatery? Just pick and choose your favourite pieces, don't use them all! But - you need to have a few elements so that you have a common thread and your space does not look like a collection of random looks. A few pillows pairs with a sultan light fixture or an ornate rug with some hand crafted pieces.

When working with a theme be sure to have balance. Start with a blank or neutral slate such as cream walls and furniture and some darker pieces like a dark espresso stained dining set and coffee table and then implement the Moroccan influences. You always want your styled space, no matter the theme, to look clean, intentional and focused.

Moroccan decor can be so exotic, romantic and chic and right now it is all the rage! Go ahead and bring Morocco to you!