From Heels to Headboards: It’s All About the Details

Hi Image South fans! This is Iris Houlihan of Iris Interiors LLC. I’m taking a break from my interior design blog, aptly named Iris Interiors, to guest post on Image South Fine Art. As art lovers, you know the importance of the little things that tie a room together. Here are a few thoughts on creating a beautiful, cohesive whole.

We often equate the term accessories with fashion. However, these little personal details are equally important when it comes to home décor. A breathtaking designer dress would be bland without the perfect pair of shoes just as that superb, spacious living room would be lifeless without the right fabrics, lighting, and wall art. Think of a room as an outfit and never overlook those finishing touches.

Lighting:

Lighting, such as a fantastic chandelier, is to interior design what jewelry is to eveningwear. From cufflinks to earrings, always add some sparkle. Without proper lighting it’s difficult to utilize or even see the beauty of a space. Lighting creates ambiance. Whether it’s accent lighting, ambient lighting, or task lighting, light sets the stage. Lighting must be functional, yet also suit the elements of a space. Stairs and kitchens, for example, will need brighter lighting. A living room works best with a mixture of options, such as table lamps and even an accent light to highlight a piece of art. However, keep in mind it’s not just the color, tone, strength, and brightness that matter. Effective lighting is also about the fixtures themselves. Choose pieces that create visual interest and drama while preserving the harmony of a space’s design. Here is an example of lighting that serves as a serious dose of glamour:

 Photo via Canadian House & Home.

Rugs:

It’s hard to pull off a tuxedo or dress without shoes. So why keep your floors completely bare? Rugs add texture and warmth to a space. An antique oriental rug and a modern design crafted from natural materials can be equally as appealing depending upon the rest of your décor. 2012 has seen the rise of runway-inspired area rugs with elements such as bold color, funky patterns, unique texture, and high-end materials. With the focus on sustainability still on everyone’s mind, other designers are opting for warm plant-based colors made from natural materials such as hemp, yarn, sisal, and silk. A feeling of old meets new has taken interiors by storm as well. Classic vintage Oriental and Persian rugs have been bleached and over-dyed to provide new color palettes. Color, patterns, overly-faded area rugs, and even layering are key. Below is FLOR’s Reoriented rug in lavender:

 Photo via Flor.com.

Wall Art:

Wall art is the perfect clutch to go with that little black dress. It pops against the wall color and adds depth to a space. Pairing a bold purse with an outfit tops it all off. Walls are not to be ignored either. Whether it’s a painting, photography, or a DIY project, wall art is always the right choice of accessory. It tells visitors who you are and can create any mood you wish. However, the piece has to complement the room and also be in proportion. Nothing is worse than a tiny painting hanging on an enormous wall. Frame a group of prints in a symmetrical pattern or create a whole wall of mix and match art pieces. Designer, Tom Scheerer, accessorized the living room of a Hobe Sound beach house with an eclectic grouping of vintage Audubon bird prints:

 Photo via Tom Scheerer Incorporated.

I hope these photos inspired you. Placing just as much importance on accessories in fashion and accessories in home décor ensures that your outfits and home alike are lively and representative of your unique personality. What’s your favorite way to add some finishing touches to a space?

About Iris Houlihan

The best word to describe Iris may simply be "and." Passionate and practical. Elegant and eclectic. European and American. Traditional and innovative. Iris's style crosses genres. A master of re-invention, she loves re-working and recycling materials, always finding new ways to mix past and present in an approach that is fresh and fun.