Seven Ways to Emphasize a Decor Style

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 décor 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 décor 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 Anne 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 décor 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 Décor 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 décor.

5. Purchase a large coffee table book to demonstrate that décor.

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 décor.

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 http://www.thehomestylist.com.

---

The Benefits of Wood-Pellet Stoves

Wood-pellet stoves were invented in the 1980's and have gained in popularity in the last few years. These are small electric stoves that burn small pieces of... Read More

How to Make Roman Shades

Roman shades are a simple and elegant window treatment to block the sun or prying neighbors. Nicer than plain plastic shades, but less expensive than ornate window... Read More

1950s Home Decor Redesign

The styles of the 1950's are coming back and there are many products now available to "capture the past" in your home decorating. To get you started,... Read More

Childrens Furniture

Children's bedroom furniture and nursery furniture can help turn a bland and boring bedroom into a fun and cozy retreat. Since there is a wide range of... Read More

Summers Unexpected Outdoor Candelabra

For picnic tables, decks, porches, patios, and sidewalks, decorators are using an unusual source of candle lighting. Fireplace candelabra-those candle holders intended for fireplaces-have moved outside for... Read More

Choosing the Right Wallpaper

There is literally thousands of different colors, different patterns even different types of wallpaper. How do you know which color, or which pattern will suit it's surroundings... Read More

Mini Blinds: An Introduction

Mini-blinds have replaced the old-fashioned Venetian blinds as more convenient and attractive window treatments. Blinds are window coverings that can have either vertical or horizontal slats, have... Read More

The Benefits of Adjustable Air Beds

Adjustable airbeds are adjustable beds for which the firmness of the mattress can be adjusted. The mattress can be made firm or soft as per the liking... Read More

Putting Passion Back Into Home Decorating

For most people, they can count the times they redecorate their homes in a lifetime on one hand. It's a shame because this is not because they... Read More

Buying a Bakers Rack

Bakers racks are a perfect enhancement to any kitchen, whether for residential or commercial use. Having been around for many years, this decorative item adds a touch... Read More

Decorate Your Home for Joy Using Design Psychology

What Is Design Psychology?Design Psychology exceeds "traditional" interior design practice by considering the effects of design elements on our five senses, as well as our emotions. Rather... Read More

What is a Duvet Cover?

A Duvet Cover is actually just another name for a Bed Comforter Cover. It's like a very large pillow case, is is normally used to cover a... Read More

The Touch of Tiffany - Unsurpassed Quality and Excellence By Dale Tiffany Inc.

Dale Tiffany Inc. has set out to bring the "Touch of Tiffany" back into the world. The mere mention of the word Tiffany will immediately call to... Read More

An Introduction to Hardwood Floors

There's good news about hardwood floors. Because of advanced construction and finish technologies, they are now more stable than they were in the past. There are three... Read More

Pool Table Lights Guide: How To Light Up Your Game

The proper pool table lights is critical to playing your best game of pool. The ideal pool table light fixture is attractive, unobtrusive, and provides just enough... Read More

Bollywood Boudoir... On A Budget

"Bollywood" is the next really big thing in interior decor. You can transform your bedroom really easily into a Bollywood boudoir with some very simple touches:First you... Read More

Crafty Country Decorating Style Ideas

If you've ever seen Frank's decorations on TLC's Trading Spaces, then you know all about the country style of design. From stenciled drawings to wooden cows to... Read More

The Barkeeps Guide to Buying Bar Stools

Purchasing a bar stool is a very meticulous process that you do not want to mess up. My personal road has taken me on a path that... Read More

Southwest Style Decorating Tips

When you think of the Southwest, what do you think of? Deserts, cactus, saloons? Well, Southwest style decor can actually combine these visions into a single decorating... Read More

Five Quick and Cheap Ways to Decorate for Fall

1. Utilize the "use what you have" theory! Go through your cupboards and drawers to find items that can be used as props in your fall display.... Read More

The Benefits of Pre-finished Hardwood Floors

Pre-finished floors come with an extended factory finish warranty unlike unfinished floors. The heavy duty finishes are urethane-based. Within a few minutes, a number of urethane coatings... Read More

Finding Discount Waterbed Sheets

Consumers may be led to believe that waterbed sheets are more expensive than conventional sheets, but this is not true. Cheap waterbed sheets are easy to come... Read More

Make The Right Choice When It Comes To Futon Frames

As you begin your search for a futon you should pay close attention to the style and frame material. There are two options for futon frames, one... Read More

A Kitchen Cart To Spruce Up Any Kitchen

Contrary to popular belief, the addition of a center island to your kitchen does not have to be permanent or a huge investment. By using portable kitchen... Read More

Granite Tile Countertops

The beauty and warmth of granite makes it an ideal material for aesthetic appeal in home design. Granite has been a popular choice of designers for decades.... Read More

For A Pleasant Smelling Home

If you're anything like me and the scent of something pleasant can instantly lift your mood, then a house that is pleasant smelling will be a constant... Read More