A fundamental element of interior design, curating the perfect collection of items and accent pieces can be a tricky task if you’re unfamiliar with the art of accessorizing. With the right approach to color, texture, balance, and utility, outfitting a space with accessories can become a prime opportunity to create an effortless interior aesthetic that brings value in many regards.
1. Personalize the Space
One of the most obvious advantages of accessorizing is the ability to make an otherwise sterile space feel much more comfortable, inviting, and memorable. Selecting unique accessories and styles can enliven the space with character, while also highlighting special interests and hobbies. Smaller items, like tabletop trinkets and coffee table books, are popular accessories for adding a touch of personality to a room.
2. Color Chemistry
Accessories also allow designers to pull together the overall color chemistry of a room by either creating stark contrast, such as the ‘pop of color’ that is commonly referenced, or by tying in different elements of interior design with matching hues. Throw pillows, curtains, vases, and picture frames are all common areas that can use color to create chemistry within an interior space.
3. Draw Attention to Special Features
Sometimes, accessories aren’t the main attraction themselves. Instead, accessoires draw the eye toward other elements of interior design that deserve recognition. For example, a robust vase filled with a strong floral arrangement can assist in drawing attention to the durable countertops that adorn the kitchen or dining area. Without an eye-catching accessory to invite viewers closer, the intrinsic beauty of marbleized durable countertops may otherwise go unnoticed or underappreciated. Likewise, the flattering features of a small alcove may be missed unless an accessory invites the eye toward this unique architectural feature.
4. Create Visual Dimension and Balance
Accessories also act as detailing for the overall visual impact of an interior space. One way that dimension is boosted is by introducing accessories that add visual texture to the layout. In addition, accessories of different sizes can be used to create balance and harmony in a room. For example, if a space is filled with large, heavy furniture, accessories that are smaller, daintier, and more whimsical can add a lighter tone to the visual impact of the space, creating a more balanced setting.
5. Different Accessories for Different Rooms
The art of accessorizing goes far beyond the selection of a few candles, pillows, and coffee table books. In fact, many people make the mistake of limiting accessory options because they aren’t willing to consider the expanse of items available. Vases, indoor plants, centerpieces, and candles are all wonderful and common items that can be used for accessorizing a room. However, there are also other accessories that can contribute to interior design, such as countertop appliances, handrails, durable countertop fixtures, and lighting features.
Each room will present different opportunities for creative accessorizing, which is why the unique features, tone, and purpose of each room should be considered when selecting accessories. As mentioned earlier, it may be beneficial to highlight a strong feature like durable countertops in the kitchen or bathroom with complementary accessories that help guide the eye in that direction.
Even spaces that are seemingly void of personality or importance can embrace the art of accessorizing. For example, the ornate curves of a staircase handrail can be accentuated with intricate handrail brackets or matching photo frames along the incline. Even a modest, linear layout can benefit from handrail brackets or columns that capture the imagination or emphasize clean lines.
Opening the mind to the unique possibilities of an interior space is essential for perfecting the art of accessorizing, and when accessories are integrated into interior design effectively, the rewards are remarkable.
Matt Lee is the owner of the Innovative Building Materials blog and a content writer for the building materials industry. He is focused on helping fellow homeowners, contractors, and architects discover materials and methods of construction that save money, improve energy efficiency, and increase property value.