My Go-To Decorating Advice

One of the most common issues I hear from people regarding their space, is that it’s lacking something, and they just can’t put their finger on it. They usually try to define the lack by using words like flat or blah. The room has no character, or it feels uninviting! While I don’t consider myself a decorating genius, I do have a few go-to’s when it comes to decorating. So today I’m sharing with you my go-to decorating advice. These are the top 5 things I look for in a room.

1. Window Treatments : Ok, I know right off the bat that some of you are like “Thanks Bre, I already have curtains.” Right?!?! Just bare with me for a minute, or if you are completely content with your window treatments skip to #2. However, you would not believe how many homes I show up to and there are no curtains, or even blinds on their windows. Absolutely nothing! Talk about making a dramatic difference in a room, and if you are searching for some much needed warmth, drapes are your friend not your enemy. The next thing I look at is the hardware, and then to see if they are layered with say a wooden blind or something similar. We are going to talk about texture in a minute, but one of the best ways to add some depth and warmth to your space is pairing some paneled drapes with a natural texture blind. Not only does it instantly add depth to your windows, but now you are adding layers, which instantly creates warmth in your room.

2. Texture : I said it before and I will say it again, texture, texture, texture. If your rooms is lacking that oomph, take a look around your space and assess how many different textures you have in the room. Texture can come in many different forms, whether it’s adding baskets either to collect items off the floor, or tidy up a bookshelf.

It can be found in window treatments as mentioned previously in different forms of blinds. Raw, unfinished wood, and architectural pieces not only bring in a different texture, but add more warmth to your space as well. Chunky knit throws or pillows, all add texture to a space and keep interest flowing throughout your room.

3. Plants – Real or Faux : I have been slowly working on my green thumb over the past year, however fresh flowers throughout my house is top on my list! When adding real plants to a room, it’s a no brainer that they will add life, because they are alive. However, I still feel like they are overlooked.

If you tend to kill every plant you touch (trust me I’ve been there before too!), or prefer something with little or no maintenance faux is your friend. Check out my post HERE, where I share my take on decorating with real and faux plants. And if you’ve been skeptical of faux plants, read my post HERE, where I share my go-to plants I decorate with around our home!

4. Lighting : Lighting is key! I know just about every room is equipped with one over head light, smack dab in the middle of the ceiling. Let me tell you right now, those are not my favorite.

Yes obviously you can use it for chandeliers, and if you must a ceiling fan, but adding wall sconces, and having table lamps and floor lamps make a space feel more intimate and cozy, and also add character and depth to your space.

5. No Matchy – Matchy : Ok so the last one I’m sure you are probably thinking sounds a bit strange. However, if you are longing for that cozier look, with that heirloom feel that your room has been put together over time, then don’t buy everything that is matchy – matchy. Not buying the entire set of furniture off the showroom floor, with matching table lamps and rug, although might feel convenient at the time, will save you in the long room from looking like you purchased the “box set”.

If you have a certain look in mind, refer to your inspiration photos. Study them to find the common denominators, a recurring theme, and items that you absolutely love, and the ones you don’t. Begin piecing together your room, with the large main objects first, and then fill in the space around them with accent pieces. Choosing an accent chair is a great way to add warmth and interest, and key to helping a space look cohesive without matchy – matchy.

Adding some secondhand pieces, or even some great weathered pieces from HomeGoods is an affordable way to bring life to your space, and gives the impression of a room put together overtime. Choosing your favorite pieces to put a room together assures a room you will love for a long time, although it takes some patience, the reward is well worth it in the end.

Remember when bringing pieces into your space, to only choose those that truly reflect your style, and that you are decorating with the things YOU love, not always that the items that are on top of the home decor trends, and won’t last long.

Finding your true style when decorating your home can take a little while, but if you don’t settle for the quick fix, you are sure to end up with spaces that you love to be in.

For more advice, and tips on decorating your home check out my posts HERE and HERE.