Whether you totally overhaul a room or just change one thing, do stay true to who you are.
DO liven up a formal room with a bit of whimsy.
● The animal print rug keeps this dining room from being too serious, as does the interesting, quirky chandelier. ● Stain proofed white cotton duck cushions strike a lighthearted casual not on the dark mahogany chairs. ● A vivid vase of ranunculus and blue goblets and place mats offer needed touches of bright color.
DO play texture on texture.
● A dressing of rich velvets and tapestries turns rattan wintery. ● Light florals can reverse the look in spring.
DO incorporate “real” furniture into your kitchen.
● Fine furniture can be made to fulfill almost any function, as in a striking chest fitted with a countertop. ● Notice how this out-of-the-ordinary island offers lots of extra storage space. ● Art has its place too, hanging above a handy shelf and on a side wall.
DO think of stairs as display areas.
● Call it found space. Steps can handle a parade of small objects, a bend in a stairway can coddie a vase, and broad bottom stairs like these form a natural platform for prized possessions. ● This riding gear with ancient urns says anything goes. ● A matching painting increase the impact.
DO set a tone with a repeated theme.
● Animal motifs on china, grape and leaf glasses and the twig flatware all recall English country house living.
Don’t
Worry about having everything match. If you’re entertaining a group that outnumbers your good china, try alternating it with everyday place settings.
Don’t
Keep vases stored away, until you need them. Even empty, they can make an interesting decorative grouping.
Don’t
Underestimate the value of fresh-cut flowers for brightening a room.
