It’s no secret that accessories can make or break an outfit. The same is true for your home. Accessories are the finishing touches that can take your home from “blah” to fabulous.
The right accessories can also make your home more functional. If you entertain often, trendy statement armchairs can make your guests feel more at ease. If you have kids, fun accents like quirky doorstops can help keep their bedrooms tidy.
But what exactly are considered “essential” accessories? Here’s a list of 9 accessories to help you get started.
1. Versatile coffee table
A coffee table is often the centrepiece of a living room. It’s a great place to rest your feet, store books and magazines, and display family photos or knick-knacks.
Opt for a coffee table with plenty of storage, like a trunk or ottoman with a removable tray. That way, you can easily access whatever you need – whether it’s coasters for your drinks or remote controls for your TV. You can also use the storage to tuck away any clutter when the company comes over.
2. Lighting
Layer your lighting to create a warm and inviting ambience in your home. Besides overhead lighting, add floor lamps, table lamps, and sconces throughout the space. And don’t forget about task lighting for any work area, like your home office or kitchen.
Be sure to also invest in light bulbs that match the mood you’re trying to create. For a more relaxed feel, go with softer, dimmer lighting. If you want your space to feel brighter and airier, choose light bulbs with a higher wattage.
3. Window treatments
Window treatments serve two purposes: they add style and they provide function. With the latter, you’ll want to make sure your window treatments can help you control the light and temperature in your home.
If you live in a sunny area, opt for blackout curtains or shades to keep the space cool during the day. And if you’re looking to save on energy bills, choose window treatments that insulate your home, like draperies or shutters.
4. Wall art
Whether it’s a painting, a print, or a photograph, wall art is a great way to add personality to your home. It’s also an affordable way to change up the look of your space – simply swap out the pieces as often as you’d like.
When hanging wall art, remember the rule of thirds: divide the wall into three sections and then hang the piece in the middle section. This will create a more balanced and pleasing look.
5. Comfy seating
If you want your home to be a place where people want to gather, you need to have comfortable seating. That means finding the right balance between style and comfort in each piece.
Start with your sofa – it should be large enough to seat at least four people, but not so big that it takes over the room. With omega colors, a bit of velvet upholstery fabric can help provide a distinct focal point in the room.
Then, add chairs, ottomans, and bean bags for extra seating and relaxation. And finally, don’t forget about pillows and throws to make the space even more inviting.
6. Area rug
An area rug can help define the space in an open floor plan and add a pop of color or pattern to a room. But more importantly, it will make your home feel cozier and more inviting.
Play with scale to find the right size for your space. In general, the rug should be large enough to fit under all the furniture in the room. But if you have a small space, a smaller rug can actually make the room feel larger.
7. Stylish bookends
Bookends not only keep your bookshelves looking tidy, but they can also be a fun decorative accent. Look for bookends that match your home’s style, whether it’s classic and sleek or rustic and industrial.
Some bookends are even functional, like those that double as a paperweight or picture frame. And if you’re looking for a unique set, try DIY-ing your own bookends using items you already have around the house.
8. Cushions and blankets
You don’t want your guests to be uncomfortable, so make sure you have plenty of cushions and blankets on hand. That way, they can adjust their seating to their liking – whether they want to curl up on the couch or sit upright in a chair.
And with style, there are endless possibilities. Choose pillows in fun patterns and fabrics to inject some personality into your space. Or, opt for neutral colors if you want your cushions and blankets to blend in with your décor.
9. Greenery
Plants are a great way to add life – and color – to your home. Not only do they purify the air, but they can also boost your mood and help you relax.
If you’re not sure where to start, opt for easy-to-care-for plants like succulents, snake plants, or pothooks. Or, if you’re looking for something a bit more substantial, try a fiddle leaf fig or a rubber tree.
Conclusion
Accessories are the finishing touches that make a house a home. And while they may seem like small details, they can actually have a big impact on the look and feel of your space.
So take some time to personalize your home with accessories that reflect your style. With these must-have accessories, you’ll be one step closer to creating a space you love.
