Design Guide: The Art Of Layering Area Rugs

October 30, 2019

Design Guide: Layering Rugs by ConfettiStyle

Layering rugs is something you see a lot in room designs. Layered rugs add warmth, dimension and texture and can help to define seating areas. A beautiful patterned rug can look amazing when placed atop wall-to-wall carpeting (or a larger area rug).

Here are the rules of thumb to follow when layering rugs along with some PROS and CONS to consider.

Decorating with Rugs

RULES OF THUMB:

Layering works best when a pattern is placed over a solid or subtle patterned rug or a natural fiber rug.
Allow a minimum of 18″ to 24″ of wall-to-wall carpet to be exposed underneath an accent rug. The solid rug will act as a frame for the patterned rug.
In large rooms, multiple rugs can be layered to define different seating areas or furniture groupings.
To avoid bunching and rippling, the bottom rug should have a pile of 1/2″ or less.
In most cases, using a carpet-to-carpet pad will ensure that the layering rug stays in place and doesn’t crawl. RugPadUSA is my favorite source for high-quality pads for all types of flooring.

Layering rugs, like layering clothes, adds texture, color, and dimension. The effect is “calm and warm,” says interior designer Suzanne Rheinstein, owner of Hollyhock, a Los Angeles home store.

Design Guide: Layering Rugs by ConfettiStyle

PROS OF LAYERING:

In large rooms, layered rugs can help to physically and visually warm up the space.
In high traffic areas or main living spaces, layering a rug over light colored wall-to-wall carpeting can be a great way to protect it from spills and stains.
Layered rugs can cushion hard surface floors like concrete or tile.
Rugs are a great way to create a focal point within large open rooms. Positioning rugs at an angle can also be used to direct traffic flow within a room.
Use rugs to add a pop of pattern and color to help bring a room to life.
Layering rugs can save your money. Rather than splurge on a large oriental, use a solid colored sisal or jute as the under layer and add a smaller version of the patterned rug on top. You’ll still get the benefit of the design without the added cost.
Layering a patterned rug over carpeingt is a great design solution for someone renting a home or apartment with less than perfect wall-to-wall carpet.

“I like the warm, deep-comfort look of smaller rugs laid right on top of wall-to-wall carpet. The smaller rug could be a bigger-scale pattern…or a needlepoint, or a beautiful Oriental,” said Billy Baldwin (1903-1984), in Billy Baldwin Decorates (1972).

Bedroom Decor

CONS OF LAYERING:

Layering over higher pile carpet can cause the top rug to buckle and create a trip hazard. If you want to decorate with a plush rug like a shag, use it as the top layering rug.
Layering multiple patterns together can create that “I ran out of rug” look if not done correctly! The trick…use different patterns in a similar scale and lay rugs at different angles.

Design Guide: Layering Rugs by ConfettiStyle

When done right, layered rugs can look great. In the right situation, decorating with multiple rugs is a good way to add style and personality to your decor. What do you think of this design trend?

For more popular Design Guides, click the title below:

Do’s and Don’ts Of Styling A Sectional Sofa

The Best White Paint Colors

Key Measurements You Need To Know When Decorating

Creating A Pillow Assortment For Your Sofa

Weekend Wrap-Up: Inspiring Style-Vol. 28

February 17, 2019

Happy Sunday friends! I hope everyone is enjoying their weekend. I spent yesterday in my office working on a variety of projects and didn’t get out to enjoy the sunshine. And unfortunately there’s no sun in the forecast today–only rain. I picked the wrong day to spend behind my computer. Anyway, before the rain starts, the hubs and I are headed out to run a few errands and take a quick walk. Then I’m planning on spending the rest of the day working on some new projects for The Ribbon Roll blog. When you get a little down time this weekend, sit back and enjoy my weekend links.

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Design Inspiration

Looking through Maine House Interiors design portfolio was pure joy. So much blue & white goodness!

I’m really loving this floor to ceiling photo wall. This is an easy and budget-friendly way to fill a wall and create a focal point in a room. (image source unknown)

p.s. These and these are my favorite frames for this type of wallscape.

My friend Erika shared some great advice for Decorating With Your Spouse.

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Home Decor Finds

Have you seen the new MoDRN collection from Wal-Mart? It’s pretty amazing. The collection is a mix of modern and retro designs that are classic enough to work with any style of decor. This white end table is one of my favorite pieces in the collection.

I’ve been sourcing mirrors for a client and came across this brass notched mirror. This is perfect to hang over a powder room vanity or smaller accent table. The the price is great too–on sale for just $128.

Solid pillows with lots of texture are one of the easiest ways to add dimension to your decor. I love the criss-cross weave on this velvet pillow. It’s under $80 and available in navy, ivory and grey.

I love the soft colors and bold design of this floral artwork (it also has a coordinating mate). Just imagine how great this would look in bedroom decorated in neutral colors.

This velvet quilt and sham collection from Grandin Road is just gorgeous and it comes in so many beautiful colors.

p.s. Grandin Road has a 20% off site-wide sale going on right now.

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Fashion Finds

I love the shape and texture of these drop earrings. They are only $2.00 and are available in red, black, yellow and gold.

Loft has become one of my favorite stores to shop for fashionable and budget-friendly clothing. I just purchased this mixed media sweater–it’s a great piece to transition between winter and spring.

p.s. Loft is having a great sale–40% off sale full-price styles and an extra 50% off sale styles.

I just read about this coat called the Amazon Coat, and apparently it’s getting rave reviews. Under $140 and comes in 5 colors.

Interesting Reads

Do you know the meaning behind different flower varieties?

I’ve been reading lots of blog post lately on the state of blogging and how it has changed over the years. If you’re a blogger or thinking about starting a blog, here are some interesting facts on blogging today.

Six Ways To Find Your Passion

Decor Trends for 2019–my recap from the Atlanta Market

What your favorite color says about your personality.

Design Chat: Decorating Her First Home

September 26, 2018

I’m back with another installment of my Design Chat series. This time around I’m helping Krystian who recently purchased her first home and needs some help with space planning and decorating. Here’s the message I received…

Hello Shelly! Good morning! I found an article you’ve written online a couple of years ago. Although it’s older, it is still relevant to me. I recently bought a home, I’m younger and horrible at decorating. I have a brown sectional, yet I’m trying to lighten things up. What accent color can I use to lighten things up other than teal or coral? I feel these would darken things. I can’t afford to change the couch right now, so I have to work with what I have. I’m looking at a lighter colored area rug, but I’m not sure on how to position it. Would you be able to offer help? Would it go under the couch at all, or just in front? I’m really confused, all of the rule of thumbs seem a bit overwhelming! Any help you can offer would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

I asked Krystian to send me a few photos of her home so that I could see what she was working with.

THE LIVING ROOM NOW:

When you enter the house you walk directly into the living room. The space is open with no walls or architectural details to define it. In a space like this, the furniture and rug will that will do that.

There are three large walls within the room which make it possible for several different furniture arrangements.

With only two small windows to provide natural lighting, the colors used in the room need to brighten and enliven the space.

There is one small challenge when it comes to decorating this space. The location of the cable jack and the large wall vent that limits what you can put on that wall.

After looking over the photos and tossing around ideas, I outlined two design plans for Krystian.

This first plan uses the existing sectional and adds in new furniture pieces to finish off the space. To add more storage and display space to the room, I recommended a console table on the wall between the windows and another on the wall to the left inside the front door.

I’m also suggesting a set of bookcases, a new tv cabinet and table lamps to enhance the lighting throughout the room.

DESIGN PLAN #1

The second plan replaces the sectional with a sofa and a pair of accent chairs. It also orients the furniture so that the sofa is on the largest wall in the room. As with plan 1, this plan also includes a console table for storage, a new tv cabinet and side tables.

DESIGN PLAN #2

To address Krystian’s concern about the room being dark, I selected decor and accessories that will brighten the room. Here’s a look at the decor plan I created.

AREA RUG: I choose an area rug with a neutral background ad colorful pattern. Patternwork and color create visual movement and in turn give the impression that a room is larger than is actually is.

When it comes to selecting the right size rug, it’s always best to tape off the size on your floor to determine what will work best. Ideally you want the front legs of furniture pieces to sit on rug. In Krystian’s room, I recommend either a 6′ x 9′ or a 8′ x 10′. A large rug will help define the sitting area and anchor the living room.

PILLOWS: A good rule of thumb when buying accent pillows is to pull colors from the area rug or artwork. Krystian can remove some of the brown and tan pillows on the sofa and replace them with more colorful options.

COFFEE TABLE: A round coffee table is best for this room and will provide a contrast to the square and rectangular furniture pieces. A glass top will make the room feel more open.

CURTAINS: Ivory curtain panels will add soften and another light and bright element to the room. Framing the window with curtains will actually make the windows look larger.

CONSOLE TABLES: I’m recommending console tables in two different finishes and styles. The iron and wood table has an open base which will add to the openness of the room. The sectioned console will be great under the TV to hold electronics and decor. Adding a few baskets to the shelves will bring texture into the room.

ARTWORK: Colorful artwork is one the best ways to add interest and personality to a room. The colors in the floral artwork tie back to the colors in the rug and pillows. And the artwork will create a focal point within the room.

LIGHTING: Krystian’s living room can benefit from additional lighting so I’m recommending a couple of table lamps. Ivory ceramic lamps incorporate another material into the room and ties into the other ivory elements in the space.

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Krystian has a great living room space to work with. Using one of these space plans along with adding color and personality through decor will give Krystian the space she’s dreaming of.

FYI–Knowing that budget is important to Krystian as she decorates her first home, I shopped Wayfair for all of the decor. Wayfair is one of my favorite sources for stylish and budget-friendly furniture and accessories.

Hillsby Saffron Area Rug

Camber Round Coffee Table

Navy Knot Cotton Throw Pillow

Elliott Knit Throw Pillow

Edwards Velvet Lumbar Pillow

Miltiades Table Lamp

Rena Console Table (wood and iron)

Salinas TV Stand (multi-section)

Solid Room Darkening Curtain Panels

French Cottage Bouquet Floral Art

Round Minerva Accent Mirror

***this post is not sponsored by Wayfair. I’m just sharing one of my favorite resources and wanted to show you how you can create a beautiful space using their products.

The Art Of High Low Style Mixing {7 Tips}

August 27, 2018

Anytime someone new comes over to my house I get asked the question, “where did you get that?” I think the question comes up because when you look around my house you’ll notice that my decor has been curated over time and has a personalized look and feel. I’ve decorated our house to reflect the things we love and because of that, it’s has its own flair.

My decor is a mix of styles, a combination of vintage and new, plus a combo of high-end pieces and budget friendly finds.The art of mixing high & low furniture and decor is one of the keys to designing a beautiful room. Here are my tips on how to mix high and low like an Interior Design Pro!

THE FORMULA TO HIGH LOW STYLE MIXING

Tip # 1: Invest money in the furniture pieces that will get used the most.

Don’t skimp on statement furniture that you and your family will be using on a daily basis. Look for high-end furniture like a sofa or dining chairs that have solid construction and long wearing fabrics. Quality pieces will elevate the style of a room and make inexpensive accessories look glam.

Tip # 2: Be an equal opportunity shopper because finding the right item is more important than where you bought it.

An equal opportunity shopper simply means being open to shopping a variety of stores for the items you want. Shop your favorite high-end retailers as well as budget friendly big-box stores that might have identical or similar items for less. And don’t count out consignment or thrift stores which can be a great source for high-end looks at a fraction of the cost.

I originally purchased this large blue and white ginger jar from a high-end furniture store. When I decided a needed a second one to flank my fireplace, I went bargain hunting and found the almost identical jar online for $50 less.

Tip #3: Mix materials and finishes to make a room appear more luxurious than it really is.

Adding texture into your decor is an easy way to elevate the style of a room. Choose accessories that incorporate a variety of elements like wood, fabric and metal for a layered and custom look. When a room has visual interest, it automatically looks and feels more polished and sophisticated.

The pieces on my bookshelves include an antique brass bowl (high-end), blue and white pottery (mid to low-end) and a disco ball that I bought on clearance (cheap). The mix creates a curated look that feels like a grouping of treasures collected over the years.

Tip #4: Don’t be afraid to UpStyle a low-end piece with high-end details.

I’m sure you’ve all seen how an inexpensive pieces from Ikea can be UpStyled to look like a high-end piece with a few simple enhancements. A coat of paint, new hardware or the addition of trim work can give a simple piece high-end style. When you’re out shopping and see an inexpensive piece evaluate its potential and how a little refurbishing could give it a whole new look.

A new set of brass knobs elevated the look of this black Ikea cabinet. And $30 worth of fabric transformed a pair of $11 thrift store ottomans in to accent pieces that look like the cost a lot of money.

An empty room is a story waiting to happen, and you are the author!

Tip #5: Invest in a few original pieces like artwork or handmade ceramics.

An original piece of art or handmade craft can be a worthwhile investment and elevate the style of a room. Original pieces don’t have to cost a fortune these days. You can find original oil paintings at antique stores or have a new piece commissioned from sites like Minted for less than $500. Etsy is a great source for handcrafted pottery and wood decor for as little as $20.

TIP #6: Group high and low-priced decorative items by color.

Color is a unifying element and will create a sense of equality between items that are grouped together. Group pieces of similar color on a tabletop or pillows from the same color family on the sofa. To keep things visually interesting, look for items with different patterns or materials so things don’t look to matchy.

A place setting is a great place to experiment with pulling a color theme together. With this pacesetting, I used blue and white as the theme but combined different patterns to create the interest.

TIP #7: Decorating your home is a marathon, not a sprint!

A room looks best when it is curated over time. Incorporating things that you love and that will make your home feel unique and special.

What tricks do you have for creating your personal decor style?

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For more decorating tips check out these posts…

10 Components To A Beautiful Home

Color Rules

10 Ways To Add Color To Your Decor

SIX Ways to Personalize Your Desk (Under $50)

July 30, 2018

Happy Monday friends. If you’ve been reading the blog for a while you know that we moved into a new house last August. I’ve slowly been working on each room and have FINALLY put the finishing touches on my office space. The space is being photographed tomorrow so I’ll be sharing the space with you on Wednesday. I love how it turned out and can’t wait for you to see it.

Before the big reveal, I wanted to pop in today and talk about accessorizing an office space. Have you ever wondered what it takes to make a home office space feel stylish and personalized? Besides artwork and a nice desk, it’s the decorative elements that can transform a workshop into a wow space.

Whenever I’m decorating a room, I like to think outside the box and replace common functional items with more stylish options. And in a home office, a few strategic changes can UpStyle the space in a flash. Here are SIX Easy Ways To Personalize Your Desk–all under $50.

No. 1–The paper trays you find in office supply stores have come a long way in the design department. However, one my favorite ways to add functional style to a desk is by using a decorative tray as an inbox. Since I love blue and white, I was immediately drawn to this chic Blue Zebra Tray from Emily McCarthy. The square shapes makes it ideal for holding paper and the $26 price point makes it an affordable option.

No. 2–One thing you’ll never find on my desk is a plastic pen/pencil cup. There’s nothing wrong with them, I just think there are more stylish options you can use to hold writing instruments. My go-to vessel is a fun vase. I love the whimsy of this Stoneware Hand Vase from H and M and think it would be a fun addition to a desk top. Plus it’s just $7.99!

No. 3–I usually have stationery on my desk or on a bookshelf nearby and love finding decorative letter holders to hold my paper products. Anything in gold or brass is a winner in my book which is why I love this Gold Letter Holder from CB2–$12.95. design tip: Letter holders can also be used to hold file folders or in the kitchen to hold paper napkins.

No. 4.–I’m always looking for unique ways to store small office supplies like push pins, paper clips and binder clips and this Wood Apothecary Box is ideal. The entire unit is compact (12″w x 7.5″ h x 4″ d) and the metal label holders on each drawer make it easy to identify the contents. $44.99. design tip: This box would also be great in the kitchen to hold tea bags.

No. 5–Clutter on your desk top can impact the productivity to you have while working. These decorative Keepsake Boxes from Wayfair are perfect for holding items like the stapler and tape dispenser. The boxes come in two sizes and range in price from $37.99 to $51.99. You could also use these to hold business cards or scrap paper for jotting notes.

No. 6–UpStyling your desk lamp is one of the easily ways to enhance the decor of your office. Opt for a stylish tabletop lamp like this Walnut Lamp ( $49.95) instead of a traditional desk lamp to accent the corner of your desk. When shopping for a lamp, pay attention to the size to ensure it will work with your desk size. You’ll also want to make sure it puts off enough light to provide adequate task lighting.

For more office decor inspiration, check out a some of my favorite office spaces.

When it comes to decorating your office space, what do you do to make it feel special?

Product + Inspiration: Layered Doormats For A Stylish Entrance

July 5, 2018

via Studio McGee

Hi friends. It’s been a while since I’ve done a Product + Inspiration post so I’m popping in today to talk about decorating your front door area.

Often times when we’re decorating our homes, we are so focused on the interior that we forget about the exterior. Flower pots and window boxes are a great way to add visual interest to the exterior of your home. And a wreath on the front door creates a welcoming feeling for guests. There’s also another decorative statement that I’m loving lately and it’s the idea of layered door mats! Layering a door mat over a decorative indoor/outdoor rug is an easy {and budget friendly} way to UpStyle your entrance.

A quick search around the web and I rounded up a handful of doormat and outdoor rug combos I think you’ll love.

via Wilshire Collections

Product + Inspiration: Layered Doormats

No. 1–Home Sweet Home + Interlocking Grid: The Home Sweet Home Doormat is a classic and pairs beautifully with an outdoor rug that has a more modern design like this grid pattern.

No. 2–Hello + Tropical Flower: This teal door mat and tropical floral rug is perfect for spring and summer. When fall rolls around you can easily switch out the floral rug for one with more fall colors.

No. 3–Welcome + Zebra: I’ve never met an animal print that I don’t love and this outdoor zebra rug is a winner. Paired with this classic ‘Welcome’ mat and you’ve got a chic look for your front door.

No. 4–Navy Floral + Yellow Stripe: This floral and stripe combo is fun while still be traditional. I love the punch of color this pairing would add at the door.

No. 5– Stripe+ Black & Ivory Lattice: If preppy is more your style, this striped doormat and quatrefoil rug combo is for you. tip: you can easily diy a striped doormat in about 5 minutes and for less than $8.00 like I did here.

No. 6– Petals + Tan Lattice: I love pairing floral patterns and graphic designs and this combo is my favorite.

Lantern Lane Designs

Tips For Layering Your Doormat

Most doormats are 18″ x 30″ so a 2′ x 3′ rug will work great as the under layer. If you have a larger entrance or french doors, buy a larger doormat and use a 3′ x 5′ rug under it. Whatever size doormat and rug you buy, make sure the rug frames the smaller doormat and leaves enough pattern exposed around the sides to give your entrance visual impact.
Look for outdoor rugs with a lower profile (flat cotton weaves work great) so that you don’t create a tripping hazard once the doormat and rug are layered.
When selecting your combo, pair a classic design with a more decorative pattern. Doing this will give you more versatility and make it easy to switch out just one of pieces to change the look seasonally.

So, do you like the look of layered doormats and which combo would you pick for your home?

5 Decor Trends I’m Totally Over (and those I’m loving)

April 18, 2018

You know the saying, all good things must come to and end! Well, that’s how I’m feeling about a few decor trends these days.

Some of the decor trends I’m sharing have been around for years and were very popular at their peak. Others have come on the scene in the last couple of years thanks in part to Pinterest and the DIY movement. Regardless of how long these trends have been around, they have run their course and now need to fade away.

No. 1–Bohemian Tapestries–I love eclectic decor and the exotic patterns and details that bohemian style is known for. I am however over the woven tapestry wall hangings that you’re seeing everywhere these days. In fact, I was kind of over them back in the 80’s when they originated. I vividly remember making one of these in a crafting class back then. When it comes to textural wall decor, I’m more a fan of abstract art or framed architectural findings to add personality to a room.

No. 2–Succulents–One of my design mantras is that every house needs greenery or florals as part of their decor. But instead of small succulent, I suggest for big, beautiful plants and fresh flowers. Did you know that plants help to keep the temperature down in a home and also reduce airborne dust levels? Yes they do! That’s even more reason to add a few plants to your decor.

No. 3–Bell Shaped Lampshades–As one of the most traditional lampshade silhouettes, bell shades have been popular for decades. While they may still be the best option for some lamp styles, taped drum shades are a more updated option. Tapered drums create the same visual effect but have softer lines and a less rigid look. fyi–for more tips on lighting check out my Lampshade Design Guide.

No. 4–Chevron Patterns–Chevron patterns need to be banned, not just on rugs but on every design application you can think of. Today there are so many more interesting patterns for textiles like rugs, pillows, curtains and bedding. I’m currently loving abstract designs and vintage inspired patterns.

No. 5–Chalkboard Walls–I actually like the function that a chalkboard wall offers but think they should now be reserved for more private spaces like a playroom and laundry rooms. And I’m certainly over a full chalkboard wall unless you’re an artist and you use it as a canvas. To replace the chalkboard trend, I vote for a fun wallpaper or a stenciled wall to add pattern and visual interest to a space.

So there’s my take of what’s hot and what’s not in the design world. I know there are other trends on their way out but these are the ones at the top of my hit list.

Are there any decor trends that you’re totally over?

How To Incorporate Black Into Your Decor

March 6, 2018

I’ve shared on the blog before that I’m pretty flexible when it comes to design. For the most part I believe that if you love something and it feels right then it’s right for your decor. On the flip side, there are some tried-and-true design rules that whole-heartedly believe in and feel should be a part of every good room design.

One of those design rules is Every Room Needs A Touch Of Black. In 2016 I created a Design Guide all about this rule and even shared my favorite black paint colors. As a follow-up to that design guide, today I want to share a few tips on the best ways to incorporate this color into your decor.

source

♦ Black is a classic color that will never go out of style. And because black is made up of all colors, it’s a universal color that pairs beautifully with any color hue. There is simply not a color scheme that doesn’t benefit from the presence of black.♦

source

How To Incorporate Black Into Your Decor

♦ Accessorize With Black–Even though the color has a lot of depth, it is considered a ‘neutral’ so don’t be afraid to use it as an accent in a room that has little color.

A black decorative accessory or one with a black detail is the easiest way to subtly infuse the color into your decor. Think bookends, pillows, a chandelier or a sculptural object.
Dark picture frames against a light-colored wall will draw the eye in while allowing the artwork within the frame to stand out.
A black lampshade instantly upgrades the elegance of a table or floor lamp.
For a dramatic statement in your living room or foyer, consider a black rug which will visually anchor the space.

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Elle Decor

♦ Decorate Around Black–Incorporating a black furniture piece into a living space adds substance, depth and helps to ground the entire furniture grouping.

An armoire, side table or an accent chair are three great black furniture options to consider.
Painting your interior doors black is a quick and inexpensive way to add a bold statement of black within your decor. Go with a semi-gloss finish so the doors with have a reflective nature and any details will stand out.

tip: if the contrast of deep, rich black Is too much, look for a piece of furniture with an ebony stain (darkest brown with a hint of black undertones)–the impact will be the same.

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♦ Accent With Black-A black accent wall or painted ceiling is not only dramatic but one of the best ways to make a small space appear larger. Forget what you might have heard about painting a small room in a light shade. In actuality, dark rooms feel larger because the room lines disappear. Black also makes details come to life, colors more vibrant and patterns pop.

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Now that you know how to add black within your decor its time to go shopping. Here are a few budget-friendly accessories that I’m currently loving.

SHOP MY FAVORITE BLACK DECOR PIECES

Garden stools are a good accent piece next to a chair or sofa and look great tucked under a console table. I love this style and glossy finish on this shaped ceramic garden stool. {affiliate link}

This black and cream rug would look great in a bedroom, foyer or as a runner down a hallway.

I can just envision a lush green plant or beautiful orchid in this gold banded leather vase.

I love the lines and classic shape of this white lamp from Target. A pair of these would look great in a bedroom or on a buffet in a dining room.

Isn’t this botanical art from Minted just beautiful? The bold color against the dark background give it a little bit of an edgy feel.

Buffalo checks seem to be a big trend in home decor right now. This plaid armchair would be a fun accent in a living space or bedroom.

You can never go wrong adding a decorative box to your decor. I love this decorative box with agate stone as part of a coffee table arrangement.

I hope the tips and inspiration I shared today gives you some ideas on how to use black to enhance your decor.