Home Styling Tips and Tricks

Have you ever visited a furniture store show room or model home and thought - wow, why doesn't my home look like this?

Well it can!  Follow these home styling tips and tricks and your home will instantly look chic and polished.  The details really do matter....





1 -  Always use odd numbers in your displays – they are more visually appealing.  The photo above illustrates 3 items used in the display.  The books (one item) all count as one object visually as that is how your eye will read the grouping. Also note coordinating colours, different textures and height - not necessary as it really depends on the style but for this shabby country chic space the texture and tones work.




2 - Items do not have to be centered on the coffee table.  If you are planning on using it, put your feet up or set down a glass, move your display off center to a corner.  It will still look great. Style and function can work hand in hand




3- Do not place anything too high on the coffee table – people should be able to see each other across the space. A little height is nice like a beautiful orchid for instance, just don't have anything bulky and tall



4- The edge of the rug in your living room should start just under the front legs of your couch and chairs.  A 5 x 8 rug works perfectly in most spaces but you can go larger depending on the size of your room.

 


5 -  A console table in the back of the couch should never be higher than the back of the couch (otherwise you will most likely bang your head on it when you flop down on the couch at the end of a long day).

 

 6-  End tables should be the same height as the arms of the couch or chair.  Too low and a guest will be likely to drop their drink and too high they will bump the side of the table with the glass.


 
7-  Use pillow inserts and covers so you can change the decor out seasonally.  It will save you money and allow you to constantly refresh your space.


 

8 -  Mix and match textures and shapes for interest.  Notice the different textures in the photo above and the throw - that also counts as a layer. Plus they add great visual interest to a room and are any easy fix when you want something new and fresh




9- When layering your pillows, start with the 20 x 20 in the back then go progressively smaller.  Use more pillows in the corner of a sectional to provide more back support.

10 Things Every Living room Needs

The living room is where you entertain, relax, read, maybe watch TV but it is the most 'public' space in your home and sure, you can count on the sofa, the coffee table, and a few additional seating options. But the room needs to be personalized through decorative touches. Here's some inspiration on how to add those personal style items to your space to give it a polished look

1 - A place for your books -  Your collection of first editions aside, designate an area to feature a few choice titles that complement your style. If your space is small, try blending the book case colour with the wall colour - it will look luxurious (like built-ins) and it will look streamlined

 

2 - Window treatments -  An empty window space is an incomplete one. Dress the frames with a set of drapes to maximize the height of the room, providing it with a simple yet elegant finish. Drapes also add softness to a room and they frame a window beautifully.  If you have blinds already add the drapes they really add a touch of style

 

3 - A styled coffee table -  A well-curated table keeps essentials on hand - minus the clutter. Stick to things that make like favorite books, vases, or trays. No, the remote control does not count as an essential or an accessory.

 

4 -  Something on the walls - We're all about the walls. Gallery of frames. One eye-catching print. An over sized mirror. Choose to decorate with pieces that will make the space totally your style.

 

5 - Pop(s) of colour -  Offset a neutral palette with hints of an eye-catching hue. It's the key to an instant uplift. Accent pillows, art, accessories and even an area rug are easy ways to add some colour to your space.



6 - Painted walls -  A can of paint really is the easiest way to add personality to a room. As for the color, well, that's up to you.



7 - A side table - A simple accent piece doubles as a geographically-convenient (and temporary) spot for all the necessities for a little lounge time.Plus these come in very handy when entertaining



8 - Personal touches - Dedicate some shelf space for an edited assortment of pieces that reflect your personality. Throw some favorite framed photos to the mix as well.

 

9 - Light fixtures -  A little lighting goes a long way. If you don't have a ton of natural light, then bring in table lamps to set the right mood for your space.

 

10 - The right seating arrangement - Small space. Large space. We can't stress this enough. It's important to think about the shape of your room and its function. Arrange for how you will be using this area.