Window Jewelry

Think of window treatments as the jewelry in a room. No matter how complete the look, Plain Jane windows diminish the visual value in a space. When budget and architecture allow, hang window treatments and valances higher than the actual window to give the illusion of higher ceilings.

Lofty Art

Just how high to hang artwork is always a challenge. The common misconception is to hang artwork at “eye-level”. Since eye level is different for everyone, think in terms of appreciating artwork while seated. Try hanging artwork about 6” above the back of a sofa or other seating piece. Try to mate artwork with furniture, lamps and accessories. By lowering art, you’ll create more intimate spaces and the illusion of higher ceilings.

Mirror, Mirror on the… Mantel

A mirror over your mantel can be a tricky proposition. While it probably creates visual drama, more often than not all it reflects is the ceiling. If you have to put a mirror in this area, consider a mirror with etching or other pattern that creates its own visual interest to offset the boring reflection.
 

Rogue Rugs

Area rugs that float in a room are a common mistake people make. Floating rugs are very distracting because they chop up a room and could prove hazardous with exposed edges. Use painter's tape or a measuring tape to create an outline on the floor to get a feeling about where you want the rug placed and the best size for your space. And remember, an area rug should always be connected to furniture and serve as an  anchor for a seating group. At a minimum, put all the front feet of the furniture on the rug.

Tilted Furniture Arrangements

Furnishings and large accessories have a visual "weight" that, if ignored, can make a room feel lopsided or out-of-balance. Taking a picture of your room can help you see what it looks like to someone when they first walk in. This often helps highlight when things are really out of scale. Tall pieces should be balanced by something on the opposite wall. Try a large piece of art, a fireplace or tree.  Heavy upholstered pieces of furniture should be matched with a glass top table or a table with legs to "lighten-up" the larger piece.

Matchy Matchy

Decorating a room that looks like a page from a catalog is a mistake. People don't really live that way.  Catalogs are designed to sell  furniture but you shouldn't be matching the look that closely.  Make it eclectic. You want to look from one wall to the other and be able to see something different.