Mix & Match………
It’s a wonderful thing!
In not too long ago memory, furniture simply had to match. Thank goodness that old decorating wive’s tale has been debunked! I am so glad!
I love the deco-philosophy that if you have it, use it! Add to it, tweek it, move it, paint it, stick something else on it, or whatever. But there’s a lot of fantastic re-purposing stuff just hanging around your house. Trust me!
Whether you have to or want to mix and match keep a few tips (and these are just a few) in mind from House Beautiful. I love a beautiful house and I love House Beautiful.
- All matching wood can look too perfect. Mixing woods can make a room more interesting and personal, like it took shape over time.
- Tiny rooms are great for dramatic decorating. “Put a large-scale printed fabric or wallpaper on the walls and even the ceiling. It’s easier, safer, and less expensive to be dramatic in a small space. You might get tired of a bold print in the main living area, but it can make a smaller, less-used room an exciting space to spend time,” says designer Victoria Neale.
- It’s true that rugs anchor a space, but that doesn’t mean they’re required. Removing them can really open up a room. “Bare wood and stone floors can be just as beautiful,” says designer Eric Cohler. It also makes sweeping up easy, particularly helpful in a kitchen that doesn’t have a rug in front of the sink.
- “If you layer a space with color, texture, and array of styles, your decor choices will have a much longer life,” says designer Vicente Wolf. Accessories are an affordable way to make sure a space doesn’t get locked into one period or thematic look.
- The most versatile coffee table you’ll ever own is an ottoman topped with a tray. Not only do you get extra seating, the tray also helps corral drinks, remote controls, and other accessories.
- Don’t be afraid to paint a vintage piece. GASP!! Every piece of furniture can’t be brown or golden oak!
- Small-scale furniture only makes a small bedroom look smaller. What?! Try a high bed and a tall headboard.
- Kids’ paintings and drawings ARE NOT JUST FOR THE REFRIGERATOR DOOR! They can bring color and whimsy to an otherwise unimaginative space. Display drawings in a colorful frame, or in a white frame with a colored mat. Hang them in an otherwise unimaginative space.
So, whether it’s done because you have to or to create an eclectic flair just have fun and mix it up!
