Dark wood floors can be incredibly chic and sophisticated, bringing richness and polish to a space. But when paired with the wrong furnishings and colors, those floors run the risk of making the space feel dark and heavy. If you’ve been wondering what to put with your dark floors to bring out their best features, try these ideas.

Don’t purchase anything until you have the entire room worked out — the rug, furniture, window treatments and lighting. While it’s not necessary to identify the precise pieces, you should have a sense of what you want each piece to look like. In fact, you might even want to assemble a project board, with clippings of the kinds of pieces you’re looking for.

So, you’ve decided to redecorate. And because you know you need help, you’ve also decided to hire a decorator or an interior designer. What do you do next, other than anxiously chew your nails?

Twigs are a favorite design element of mine. They can be squiggly or straight, rustic or severe, white or dark. So it’s no surprise that they’re effective for way more than just furniture. Take a gander at some of the inventive ways that twigs can be used as architectural elements in the home. These are actually lengths of branches, and are linear rather than twisty. But the natural feel is the same.

Poufs, ottomans, benches, and garden stools will refresh your space without breaking your budget. And I’ve included a handful of tips for using them, so you’re sure to be inspired.