‘Jewelry for the home'

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The beauty of home accessories is that they are widely available. But admit it. You've made your share of “what-was-I-thinking” purchases.

And then there are the objects you've collected or inherited but have never given much thought to displaying because it all seems like a mishmash.

Or is it?

Maybe you just need to sort and switch it up.

A decorator trick is to take inventory of the accessories you love the most — tabletop sculptures, heirlooms, accent lamps, children's artwork, travel souvenirs. Lay out the objects in a room and size up their similarities and differences. Group them accordingly and — like magic — artful combinations will emerge.

“Accessories are essential to every space in your home,” says Omaha interior designer Beth Settles of Interiors by Joan and Associates. “I like to call them the jewelry of the room. Accessories are a fun way to express your personality and put a finishing touch on a space.”

But easy does it. Accessories, she says, should be carefully thought out. She follows “the-less-is-more” principle.

Accessories should stand out but not overwhelm a space, Settles says.

“Sometimes it takes time to find the perfect pieces, especially if you are trying to fill a void and already have unique and interesting pieces to work around.”

A glass vase filled with fresh flowers on a tabletop, colorful pillows on a sofa, and an interesting area rug under a cocktail table freshen a room almost instantly. Even greenery in a bookcase can have meaningful impact by anchoring accessories and adding texture and color.

Settles recommends placing favorite accessories in areas where they can be seen and noticed. Co-mingle textures such as glass, wood and stone, and play with height and scale.

“I like a mix of short and tall objects,” Settles says. “Scale is very important. I place the largest and tallest items behind the shortest and smallest items.”

If objects feel too distant in height, fill the void with a plant. If neutral objects seem unbalanced, inject a colorful accent.

If you like symmetry, pair objects of similar scale, proportion or color. For asymmetrical groupings, underscore the differences between objects to establish a lively sense of rhythm.

Either way, group the accessories in odd numbers for greatest visual appeal.

“Clients always ask where they should display their family photos,” Settles says. “Place them in a personal area of your home, such as a hallway, family room or master suite, where you can enjoy them every day.”

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10 ESSENTIAL ACCESSORIES

Beth Settles and Lindi Janulewicz of Interiors by Joan and Associates collaborated on 10 instant room-changers or home or office.

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Clear glass vases

These great vessels come in a variety of shapes, textures and sizes. Fill them with colorful glass spheres or flowers in summer; wispy twigs and branches in fall; and festive ornaments in winter. Display on a shelf, mantel, coffee table or dining room table.

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Vases in bright colors

These containers don't necessarily have to hold anything; they make a statement on their own. Mix colors and sizes for dimension and drama.

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Soft accessories

Pillows and throws add a layer of color, texture and design appeal to furnishings. A plush throw can anchor pillows on a sofa or chair and provide a cozy layer when curling up to read or watch a favorite TV show or movie.

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Tall wispy grasses

and slender florals

The outdoors come indoors — no watering required. Plants with wispy characteristics add both texture and softness to a space.

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Artwork

Just as a fabulous paint color or wall finish provides your space with an essential backdrop, artwork is the crown jewel that completes the space. Choose a series of works that fit together in a brilliant display or a single piece that fills a wall. Excellent framing and lighting are essential for showing off your collection. Anything goes, so select artwork that speaks to you.

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Driftwood

In a more rustic or casual setting, driftwood contributes to the natural vibe. A driftwood bowl filled with moss green spheres has an earthy appeal.

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Tabletop sculpture

These art pieces are especially at home in a more contemporary setting. As a focal point, a sculpture can be an ice breaker. This design fills space without being bulky.

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Metallic accessories

Mercury-tinted glass isn't just for the holidays. Look for interesting vessels, candle holders and sculptural spheres to introduce a hint of glitz and glam into your spaces.

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Sconces and lamps

Ambient lighting is essential for creating a warm, inviting feel in your home. Use sconces to achieve architectural interest through the fixture's shape, materials and light. Use lamps to illuminate a dark corner, provide essential reading light or “warm up” a sitting area.

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Critter sculptures

Incorporate figures of beloved animals into your accessory groupings. One large, dramatic and meaningful object is better than a clutter of trinkets on a tabletop or shelf. The featured elephant has a playful expression, not to mention a shape that's inviting and unique.