One of the things I noticed when we were packing and again as we’ve been unpacking is that I have an overload of decorative accessories. One reason for my ‘collection’ is a result of my profession as a designer and the other I blame on my need to change-up my decor on a regular basis.
As I’ve been unpacking, I’m trying to focus on keeping only those items that can be used in more than one area of my house and are the most versatile. Taking the time to analyze each accessory got me thinking about which decor pieces I consider essential when it comes to decorating. I’ve narrowed down the list to 5 items that I think are worth their weight in gold and wanted to share the list with you.
Decorative Boxes are not only pretty to look at but they are one of the most functional decor pieces you can own. They can be used for storage, to contain clutter or simply as a decorative element on a tabletop or bookshelf. One of my favorite uses for a decorative box is on a coffee table as part for a grouping of accessories. And you’ll always find a decorative box as part of my bedroom decor on my nightstand.
ConfettiStyle
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Ginger Jars were originally used to hold spices when they were being transported across Asia. Today ginger jars are one of the most popular and trendy decor pieces around. Because ginger jars are available in hundreds of different designs, colors and shapes, you can easily find a style that will work with your decor. I’m partial to blue and white designs but love the impact that colorful ginger jars add to a room. My favorite place to accessorize with large jars is on top of a bookcase or armoire, or next to a fireplace. And I love using small jars on bookshelves or kitchen counters.
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I didn’t realize how many Glass Hurricanes I owned until I started packing for our move. I own clear glass hurricanes in a variety of sizes and recently added a pair to tortoise hurricanes to my stash. I’m always burning candles in my home so I use small hurricanes throughout the year to hold candles so the flame is contained (learned that trick from Anthropologie). And during the holidays, I love using large hurricanes to hold ornaments or other holiday decor. And a hurricane makes a great vase for flowers or greenery stems.
Crate and Barrel
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I think the next item on my list is a pretty obvious one. A Decorative Tray is an essential decor piece and one that I think belongs in every home. Like ginger jars, trays come in all shapes, sizes and colors which makes decorating with them easy. On a nightstand, a tray can be used to hold jewelry and bedtime essentials. And on a coffee table, a tray adds a layer of style for holding smaller objects like candles, decorative objects or books.
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I must admit that I have a bit of an obsession with Decorative Bowls. Silver bowls, chinoiserie themed ceramic bowls and rustic bowls are my favorites for decorating. If you’re looking for an impact statement on your coffee or console table, a large bowl filled with decorative spheres or flowers is nice. And small bowls are a stylish way to hold matchboxes or trinkets on a tabletop.
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The details are not the details, they make the design!
—Charles Eames
When it comes to decorative accessories, not all decor pieces are created equal. There are some accessories that are classic, timeless and stand the test of time against design trends.
So what do you think of my list of essential decorative accessories? Is there an item or two that you’d add?
p.s. if I were to add another item, it would be books!
