Keys to Great Design

Whether contemporary or traditional, this stand alone piece can withstand the test of time. Originally used to store your wardrobe, this piece has become extremely versatile and is now found in almost any room. Nowadays they are used to house TV's, linens, stereo equipment or just left open to display collectibles.

The armoire is popping up in living rooms, kitchens, bedrooms, offices and even retail stores. If you invest in a well made armoire with some personality or detail that makes it unique to your home, it will surely survive any style challenge you present it with. It can be rustic or modern, elegant or common, and it will simply provide much needed storage while adding much needed style.

A beautiful headboard can quickly and easily create a stunning bedroom. Without a headboard we rely solely on the bedding and surrounding furniture pieces to create the look. By bringing in a beautiful headboard you provide a solid foundation for the rest of the bedroom to take shape.

The bed has always been, and always will be, the focal point of the bedroom, hence the name. There are unlimited headboard styles available so you are sure to find one you love. Without a headboard, it is very difficult to get that pulled-together look we strive for in room design.

Who doesn't need extra seating? An occasional chair can sit in a corner until needed or can be the main attraction when paired up with other chairs for an eclectic seating mix. Why just leave a boring old chair in the corner? It's useful, yes, but why not make your chair into art? This is the perfect opportunity to add some interest and create conversation. With a unique shape or lively upholstery, the chair can really add a new element to your design style.

Remember upholstery can easily be changed on most chairs. So, if your funky chair starts to look dumpy, just refinish, repaint or reupholster and refresh the look. Go for a vintage or heirloom feel or just try a vibrant accent color, but definitely have fun.

As essential as a front door, a coffee table is a must! Establish the correct size table needed for your space. Once you know what size to look for the fun begins. An old trunk, drum, rustic barrel or even an over-sized ottoman can create the surface feature for your next coffee table. What about glass, wood, iron or a mix?

Consider some of these quirky solutions to an otherwise common furniture piece. Especially if you have several seating areas in your home, try to create drama by adding something unexpected for one of your coffee tables.

Mirrors are not actually considered furniture, but we think you need one anyway. No matter what size room you have, a really great mirror adds depth, space, light and elegance. Try hanging an oversized mirror in a place you would normally want to hang a painting.

What about frame style? Go contemporary, vintage or rustic or try a frame style that is from a different genre than the rest of your artwork and introduce a new perspective (pun intended). Lastly, determine what will be reflected in your mirror and hang it in a place that would reflect the most desirable setting. If a mirror is hung too high, it might only reflect the ceiling when it would be more dramatic to reflect a seating area or a view from a window across the room.

Need more help? Read our other lenses for more home design tips or contact us directly on the web or at 1.888.879.6942