Creating That “WOW” Factor in Your Room

Ever walk into someone’s home and say “wow, this room looks like it belongs in a magazine”? Chances are this room will have several of the elements I’m going to share with you. If you can incorporate just one or two of these décor tips in your room, it can help transform your space from so-so to sensational!!!

1. If at all possible, pull your furniture out from the walls. Furniture that is lined up against the walls isn’t as inviting, and it usually creates an awkward conversational grouping. It will also create better traffic patterns around the conversational area, rather than through it.
    

2. Anchor the main grouping in the room with a rug. An area rug will ground the conversational area and add another layer of color and pattern. It’s fine to lay a rug over carpet if you don’t have hard wood floors.
    

3. Create a conversation area. If you have a pair of chairs, (they don’t have to match) pull them up with the sofa to create a cozy grouping. Place them in an L (side by side with a table between), or U shape (chairs facing each other at right angles to the sofa) or directly across from the sofa. The same applies for a single chair…place it in the same configuration as above.
    

4. Add a coffee table. A coffee table will further add to the coziness of your grouping, while giving you a surface to accessorize. You need not use a conventional coffee table. Other options could be an antique trunk, (one with a flat top), an upholstered ottoman (place accessories on trays for safety), a low bench, or two pedestals with a glass placed securely on top. If you have a coffee table, but are tired of it, try a new coat of paint to transform it.
    

5. Give artwork more than a passing glance. Artwork can be such an important element in a room, and where it is placed is as important as the subject of the piece. Most artwork is hung at eye level while standing, but it is typically viewed while sitting in the room. So…place it lower than you normally do and it will give the art more importance. And…vary the size of art in your room. Look for other types of “wall art” such as plates or platters, shelves to incorporate into groupings, iron scrollwork, wall pockets, sconces, etc. In other words, add the unexpected.
    

6. Let there be light. Lamps are another element commonly overlooked in rooms that lack pizzazz. Try to provide three sources of lighting, and I am excluding the cold, unflattering overhead lighting provided by a ceiling fixture, (one of my pet peeves!!!!) Fortunately, lamps available today offer beautiful styling in both bases and shades. Try to choose lamp shades that are not the same color as your walls.
    

7. Bring nature inside. Add greenery, whether live or silk,. If you are using artificial greenery, buy the best quality you can afford. A silk tree will add height and drama to any room. I love to add silk floral arrangements to every room; choose arrangements within your color scheme. Don’t overlook the container of a tree or arrangement, and try to support the style you’re trying to create.
    

8. Add creature comfort. Pillows, and throws, while lending a comfort factor to your room, can add that extra punch of color or texture like nothing else. Mix up the fabrics of your pillows, and try to avoid being too matchy-matchy.
    

9. Accessories are the jewelry of your room. Ever notice how some people look so put together…their jewelry doesn’t overwhelm their outfit, but adds a finishing touch of polish. The same is true with accessorizing a room. These are the items that add personality to a space, and can reflect the homeowner’s interest. Look for accessories that tie in to the room by color or subject but vary the texture.
   
   Use your coffee table, and side tables to create small vignettes as well. Don’t forget to change these displays seasonally. The best way to enjoy your accessories is keep them fresh and interesting to look at! Move things from room to room to enjoy them in a different grouping. Elevate some of the items in your vignettes to keep the eye moving over your display. You can use books, or plate stands, interesting boxes or small trunks for this purpose. Work with the display until you feel it looks balances and yet interesting.
    

10. Don’t forget about Black. Adding touches of black to a room can make your other colors really stand out. Black also gives sophistication to a room. You can do this by adding a black lampshade, a pillow, a throw, or a picture frame. This touch will be understated, but will add a “wow” factor.

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