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!