Washington County Weekend Post

2A • WASHINGTON COUNTY POST • SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2021 GMTODAY.COM Photo spreads in home design magazines can be awe-inspiring. Quite often homeowners wish they could lift the looks right off the pages of magazines and transform their own homes into picture-perfect retreats. It takes an eye for design to pull a room together — even with inspiration — and make it both functional and attractive. While hiring an interior designer is one way to go, homeowners can use some of the tricks and tech- niques the designers employ to do a remarkably good job of improving the interiors of their homes without such help. Embrace texture The colors used in a home can add impact, but designers often utilize vari- ous textures to create aes- thetic appeal. A single color scheme can be enhanced by various fabrics. Consider a leather sofa made more cozy with chenille pillows next to a rustic side table. Figure out ways to incorporate a few different textures to add depth to the room. Be careful with color Many high-end homes showcase neutral shades that are enhanced by pops of color. If you like a rich, royal purple, leave room for other colors as well. Add touches of purple in vases, throw pil- lows and other accessories. Also, many designers work in shades of three for room colors. There may be one main color for walls, another color for larger accents, such as couches and chairs, and then a third color that pops in accessories such as flow- ers, pillows and collectibles. These can be any colors, but the most muted tends to be the more abundant shade. Add a bit of bling Glittery items and metallics can add a touch of luxury feel to any space. A shiny table lamp, mirrors, a sparkling chandelier, and the like are easy ways to produce a high-end feel. Reflective surfaces also will cast light around the room, giving the illusion of a larger space. Choose a big statement piece Many homeowners make the mistake of filling a room with several small pieces of furniture that only con- tribute to clutter. Instead, look for a statement piece, which can be a cabinet, armoire or chaise. Mix and match large and small ele- ments for a sense of balance. Accessorize Finish the room with accessories and flowers. When placing and hanging knickknacks and wall art, odd-numbered groupings often look the most cohesive and interesting. Experiment with different scales and heights for even more dimen- sion. When inspiration hits, take some cues from interior design pros to make spaces look like they belong on the pages of your favorite maga- zines. Secrets to making your home look like you hired a design pro

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