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The best homes feel like a constant evolution. Every time you walk in, something is a bit different, whether a chair moved, a piece of art added, or even a knick-knack removed, there’s a natural movement to the home that keeps it constantly evolving.
“Your home should tell your story,” says Nashville, Tennessee-based interior stylist Melanie Marshall of Melanie Marshall Creative Co. Stories change, meander, and flow, and so too should your interiors. It’s just one of many secrets to creating a home that somehow always feels relevant—even if your last kitchen renovation happened two decades ago. Don’t worry, we won’t tell. But how can one make a home feel finished even if it never quite is?
Marshall and Brittney Blanton, Nashville interior designer and founder of B. Blanton Design Co., have a few thoughts on that. Here, the stylist and designer sound off on the sure-fire styling tips that never fail to create a finished feel, no matter where you are in your home design evolution.
Invest in Window Treatments
Blanton isn’t one to dismiss the power of a good window treatment. It’s one of the items she always budgets for and flags from the very beginning of each project, knowing it can instantly create a custom feel and finish to a space.
“A beautiful room without proper window treatments will still feel unfinished,” she explains. “Not only do window treatments frame the view, but they also are essential in controlling the natural light and creating atmosphere.” For those working with a limited budget, the designer recommends going for semi-custom options that still offer a wide selection of fabric choices, but without quite so hefty a price tag.
Add Something Green
“I believe in having something fresh in the home at all times,” says Marshall. “Whether it is a tree branch clipped from the backyard, fresh-cut herbs in glass jars, or a bowl of lemons, these elements provide instant life to a space.” Think about how you can use this concept throughout your home: a tiny vase on top of a stack of books, a potted plant near a window, or a few stems of something bright and happy in a hall bath.
Be Thoughtful with Textiles
Pay attention to materials, looking for varying textures like linen pillows and wool throw blankets to pair with other textural items in your space (a rattan table, for instance) to keep the room from feeling stagnant, Marshall offers.
With soft goods, the details make all the difference, says Blanton. “A paneled pillow with fringe or a contrasting cord detail can be small, customized pieces that pack a big punch in a space,” she says. “For throw blankets, we are always looking for pattern-driven options that complement the overall color scheme in a space.”
Curate Your Items
If there’s one misconception about creating a finished home, it’s that you have to spend money to do it. While that might be a called-for approach in some (if not most) circumstances, Blanton suggests starting by curating the items you already own. “If you love an item, display it; if not, consider donating it,” she says. “A finished home isn’t about the amount of décor, but how you use it.” The designer suggests styling in odd numbers to create an intentional-looking vignette. A mix of plants, candles, and books or collections grouped together (rather than scattered about) is key. “This creates a focused ‘moment’ that tells a cohesive story,” says Marshall.
Right-Size Rugs
“Choose your rug wisely: An undersized rug can make a home feel unfinished,” says Marshall. “A properly sized rug anchors a space instantly.” To get it right, the stylist suggests ensuring, at the very least, all the front legs of the seating are on the rug. Marshall suggests keeping it budget-friendly by opting for a natural fiber rug that can both create an elevated look in your room and also anchor the space.
Layer Lighting
Nothing creates ambiance in a space quite like good lighting. While overhead lighting is oftentimes necessary, creating a layered approach is where Marshall says you’ll hit the mark on creating a more finished look. “Use table and floor lamps, wall sconces, and picture lighting to create depth,” she suggests. Don’t neglect forgotten corners, as Blanton says, a little glow can instantly add ambience and warmth. “A pro tip is to go antiquing for unique, hand-painted or detailed lamps,” she says. “We love pairing these with a pleated fabric shade to create a custom, high-end look.”
Never Neglect Art
“Artwork is a non-negotiable when finishing out a space,” says Blanton. “It's such an opportunity to highlight the design elements you love in the room and bring in new color and texture,” Marshall says. Emotion is key in creating an art collection you love. For instance, art collected throughout your travels can become a storytelling moment and a reminder of special memories when hung together to create a gallery wall. For those looking for treasures closer to home, Blanton suggests scouring your favorite local resale shops. “We are always looking for antique or vintage hand-painted pieces to bring character or story into a space,” she says. “Antiquing for these is a great way to find a unique item with depth and character.”
Read the original article on Southern Living
