Accessorizing is the icing on the cake and if done correctly can make a great impact on any space. Ever walk into a space and feel overwhelmed by too many “knickknacks”? Most people don’t know what to do with all of their “stuff” and tend to put it all out at once; creating an uncomfortable and crowded space.
Below are some key aspects to keep in mind when accessorizing to help achieve successful accessorizing.
First things first, four steps to sort out all of your items:
1- Take down all of your items from your common rooms (Living room, kitchen, dining room, and foyer). This includes all of your artwork and items on all surfaces.
2- Put all of your items out so you can see them all together.
3- Look at what you have. Don’t be afraid to be critical and ask yourself what you really love and need and what you can give away.
4- Group what you have left in similar groups. For example put all your photographs together, all your candlesticks together and so on.
Now that you have weeded out your pieces, you have to figure out where the items you are left with will go. Try doing less, at first, “less is more”. You need to have breathing room between groupings. This allows your eyes to rest before going onto the next collection. Also, keep groupings tight. You don’t want your vases and photographs all lined up spaced out. You want them to look like they are together, part of one grouping. Below are some secrets to keep in mind when placing your pieces:
Three of a Kind- Placing three similar items together creates a collection. You can do a grouping of two, but to really make a statement, you should do three items.

Similar Pieces- Keep like pieces together. Maybe they didn’t necessarily come together, but as long as they are similar, you can put them together in a grouping.
Rotate- Usually you have more things than you do space, so instead of trying to put all of your collections out at once, rotate them. Maybe do it seasonal, that way you can display all of your items to their fullest potential without overcrowding the room.
Tallest in the Back- You want to place the tallest items in the back, logically so you can see the other items in front. For example, on a sideboard, place a large plate or tray on a stand at the back of the surface. Then place your shorter items in front, such as a vase, teapot, or arrangement. The tray or plate acts as a backdrop for this particular grouping.
- You want various levels in a grouping. It adds interested and creates a finished look.
- If an item is larger then the other pieces in the grouping but is not tall enough, place some hardcover books beneath it to raise it up. It adds height and character. Try taking the book jacket off to keep a cohesive look that doesn’t distract from the other pieces.

Some other ways to accent your space:- Add accent pillows to your couch and chairs. It adds color and texture and can easily be switched out seasonally or when your mood strikes.

- Candles are a good way to add color into any room. Use neutral candle holders and change the color of the candles seasonally.
- Have a great bowl you want to display? Put some fruit in it for the kitchen or dining room or place orbs in it for the living room. It’s a great way to add something low to a coffee table.
As always, if you need any assistance be sure to contact the designers at Experience and Creative Design. They are always available to help!
The Vanguard Show House opens next week so be sure to stop by Experience and Creative Design today to purchase your tickets! They are $18.00 in advance and $20.00 at the door.
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