10 Steps to Foolproof Decorating - Step 8: Accessories

The accessories are the items that warm up a home. The toss pillows on your sofa, the throws on your bed, sofa or a comfy chair you can curl up on. I think of rugs as large accessories as well. More on that below.

Clocks

I purchased three clocks at three different times and locations. I’ve had this clock collection for years now. They all have the incorrect time – two need to be fixed. #Todolist. 

By grouping them together, they form an interesting vignette that isn’t frequently seen. I like that. I want my home to be unique to me, my interests and what brings me joy. I appreciate items that bring a smile to my face and that I truly love. We spend too much time in our homes to not love what we see.

Asian Screen

When I moved to my condo in Boston, I didn’t want to keep a bed that I had used in several homes previously – especially in such a small bedroom, however, when I saw this Asian sign on Facebook Marketplace, I knew immediately that this would make an interesting headboard. And so it did (my opinion). I purchased the Asian wall hanging plaques above on Amazon and voila, I had my headboard. The screen inspired my bedding and mirror above my nightstand. Paying homage to my Asian decor.

Portraiture

My children’s portraits were done when they were three, five and seven and if my house was burning I would grab these three things only. I love original artwork and was able to find an amazing portrait painter and was encouraged to have each of them painted individually so they would have their own portrait of themselves when they were older. So far, no one has asked for them, but I’m sure that day will come. For now, I’m enjoying the original artwork of my three favorite people in the world and hope to for decades to come.

I also have another portrait of a woman who reminded me of my mother when she was young. I just love her as well. If she could speak . . . I might be in some trouble!

Croquet Balls

Something I saw at an antique shop and thought would look sweet on my end table in my living room. I still love seeing them there even though I haven’t played croquet in years!

Creature Comforts

Throws, comfy down pillows and a sofa to sprawl out on are the things that make a home more functional and comfortable. They can also be a place to add color and texture to a room. There are so many affordable options to purchase and choose these items now. What speaks to you?

Air diffuser

Essential oils and water mix to make a room smell amazing. The ones with the wood reeds I love putting in a bathroom as well. Everytime I enter the room where one is present, I breathe in and am so grateful I’m home. I’ve purchased these at local stores as well as places like Homegoods. 

These are a few ideas of things that I have enjoyed incorporating into my home. Yours will be different and what you love to see. That’s the way it should be.

I’m really good at helping you choose the right accessories for your home. If you need some help, just email me at nmichaels@nancymichaelsinteriors.com.