Let's say that you may not be sure if and how to add an odd piece in your styling. Even though you really like that sideboard, that armchair, that artwork... you think that "It's going to stick out like a sore thumb". Well, I say to you, be bold and turn that Sore Thumb into a Beauty Spot!
You may already know by now how I feel about buying cheap furniture: it may save you money now, but it won't last the passing of trends, it'll soon get wobbly or damaged and it will too-soon end up in landfill as rubbish. However, here is a beautiful piece of furniture that came to you through an inheritance. Or is it an antique piece that you have seen in a store or at an auction? You love it but don't know how to make it fit... I'm excited for you, it's going to be a Beauty Spot, a 'talking piece', your unique and personalised statement. Look below for a few examples...
True antiques, or classical pieces of furniture are rich with memories, adding a warm feeling of history and traditions. Good quality modern furniture however, adds strength to a room and shows good taste.
Who says that classic doesn't fit in a modern setting? One only piece is indeed very easy to fit.
And if your collection of eclectic furniture grows, all you have to do is display it by a recurrent theme: a common colour or complementary colours, or grouped by similar or contrasting textures and materials...
A few suggestions:
colours of different items should never be 'close' but matching or contrasting
contrast works for you, not against: an antique piece in a modern environment, a 'punch' from complementary colours, bold artworks on a toned down styling...
mixing and matching furniture is succesful only when pieces are of good quality (I sternly insist), or the styling will look shabby.
So, enjoy that misfit piece, and show it as a precious Beauty Spot!! And if my opinion hasn't convinced you yet, look up to those that made a success of it.
James Treble is an ambassador for Planet Ark and firmly believes in sensible purchasing, recycling and creative re-purposing. James Treble has more than 25 years of experience in the Building Industry and Interior Design. His knowledge and experience in adding value to homes, through clever design & styling, is now published for all to learn and benefit from. Interior Design For Profit is now available online.
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