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After searching decorating books,
using trial and error decorating, and growing up a little
bit, you have finally found the style of decorating
that you really love. Your style could be Arts & Crafts,
French Country, Asian, or Metro Hip. If you are still
searching for your style or want a second opinion on
what your general home style really is, try taking the
fun style quiz on www.thehomestylist.com.
Now that you have identified
a decor style, the challenging part may now be to implement
that style and make it substantial enough so others
will notice. There are seven simple elements that will
really help you emphasize this great look.
1. Choose a focal point
that will reflect your decor style. This signature piece
is usually the most dominate item you see and sets the
tone of the room. If this piece is not your specific
style, the room will not look its best. An example could
be a beautiful Queen Ann armoire for a Classic Traditional
style or a large rustic log mantel for the Mountain
Lodge look.
2. Use colors that are
common to that specific style. Different decor styles
are usually shown with a collection of colors that are
prominent for that palette. Make sure your room has
those colors. For example, French Country is well known
for its pretty yellows and blues. Americana Style would
not be the same without red, white and blue.
3. Collect in a theme
that emphasizes that style. Every ones needs a conversation
piece or collection that demonstrates the owner's personality
and interests. A collection also doesn't need to be
large just 3 to 5 objects. Ginger jars for the Asian
Decor or cute porcelain teapots to emphasize an English
Garden style.
4. Frame an authentic
object that is original to the country or era. This
simple task does not have to be expensive. Old Postcards
from Italy for your Tuscany Villa Style or wine labels
from France for a European Look will add authenticity
and personal touch to the decor.
5. Purchase a large coffee
table book to demonstrate that decor. Large beautiful
books can subtly emphasis the style you enjoy. The book
does need to be a decor books but rather a topic that
is related to the style. For example, a Vintage Advertisements
for the Shabby Chic look, or Andy Warhol book for the
Metro-Modern look.
6. Use plants or flowers
that coordinate with the decor. The greenery can be
real or artificial as long as they look healthy. Nothing
spoils a designer-look like a dying plant. Use cactus
for the Southwestern look or a great palm tree for the
Tropical style.
7. Review all you accents
and accessories to make sure they blend with your new
found style. By reviewing each element individually
to see if it blends (not necessary perfectly matches),
you can make sure you have a well-coordinated look.
Look for a geometric patterned pillow for a Modern look;
search for fringed lampshades for an Old World style.
Remember decorating is a process.
Searching for those perfect accessories to emphasize
your style is part of the fun. These tips will help
you add the style you want to the home you love.
Julie Dana is a professional
Interior Redesigner and Accredited Staging Professional
with www.thehomestylist.com.
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