5 Things Every Home Should Have

Every designer has his or her own style rules. Over the years, I’ve honed mine down to the top five that I come back to again and again. Follow these ideas — or break them if you see fit — and I guarantee you’ll be able to take any space from feeling like it’s a boring, everyday thing to something you love.

1. A midcentury piece. I’m a huge believer in always using at least one midcentury modern element for a number of reasons. For one thing, the design period, despite no longer being technically “modern” (in the sense that it’s now technically a retro style from the past century), still feels current and timeless.

One of the easiest ways to introduce a modern piece is through seating. Midcentury chairs are always stylish with traditional wood tables for that old-world, new-world mix.

2. A touch of white and a touch of black. Our eyes expect to see a full spectrum of colors, and how we perceive a space can change based on the range of colors represented. This is why I try to always include at least a hint of white and a touch of black in each space. White is often easy, but be mindful of adding black accents. Black picture frames and other elements on white backgrounds will make sure both ends of the spectrum are represented and balanced.

3. A mix of textures. Whether your space is bold and colorful or subdued and neutral, a truly designed look involves a mix of textures for that subtle richness. Besides different upholstery textures, like cotton, burlap, hides, linens, silks and sheers, you should always strive to include some wood, metal and glass. The materials in this no-fail trio are easy to mix and will add lots of depth.

Other textures to consider mixing in:

• Woven baskets
• Smooth woods (vs. worn-in woods)
• Plant life
• Plastic (such as Lucite chairs)
• Wool or cashmere
• Exposed bulbs (the glow is almost like its own texture)

4. Personal imperfection. Besides all the perfectly chosen materials, a space should have at least once piece that speaks to a sense of history, with some true vintage character or personal meaning.

5. Fresh flowers. Lastly, to me a space is never truly finished unless it includes some fresh flowers or growing greenery to give it a sense of life and care that keeps it from feeling static.

Article published on Houzz.com