·

The Art of Styling Your Home

Sharing is caring!

Creating a beautiful home can be daunting at times when you want to give your new home a new life! The Art of Styling Your Home will take you to the next level to create the look you want to achieve in your home.

We all wish we could have an interior designer who helps design principles for different ways to style our own home, shows you different dining table vignettes, or even helps you with a color palette. The Art of Your Styling Your Home is a style that speaks to you and comes from your heart.

A cozy chair with a green throw blanket & blue pillow. On the chair is an open book & eyeglasses. Next to the chair is a end table with a lamp, home decor books & a hot beverage in a blue & white mug. In the middle of the space is a blanket chest used as a coffee table with abasket tray that holds a plant in a yellow planter, candle holder amber glass candy dish & more home decor books.

Once upon a time, I would struggle with having what seemed the easiest thing in my home (the couch) adequately positioned. Although my husband wouldn’t mind any arrangement, I wasn’t comfortable, it was like I was missing something or something wasn’t right each time I walked into the living room.

I’d often stand in there for some minutes and ask my husband for his thoughts, “honey, what do say we move the smaller one behind, and the bigger one facing the entrance? We could have the bead board here, the vase on that side, and move the shelf just behind it….” I would go on and on, and after a few days, I wanted it better. Yes, I was that confused!

An antique secretary desk tucked in the corner of a dining room. Decorated with vintage touches such as an ironstone pitcher that holds mini red roses, old books, magnifying glass on the opened desk. On the top of the desk is a lit oil lamp, oval photo, plant, old books with a milk glass lamp & votive candle holder on top.

The Art of Styling Your Home is a creative process.

Choosing your interior design style is one of the most enjoyable aspects of designing your house. Your style, whether antique or contemporary, rustic or futuristic, may reveal a lot about you and how you want to express yourself. However, there are instances when it is more important to take care of an older piece that means something to you than to select a style that matches your personality.

If you have an item in your house that has been passed down through the family or that you’ve always liked, but it no longer fits your current style, don’t get rid of it!

Few of us have houses as picture-perfect as those in magazines. Unfortunately, regardless of budget, most of us just lack the energy to keep our living spaces at the level of perfection that print magazines demand on shoot days. In truth, there is much more to an interior shooting than meets the eye: Furniture is rearranged, accessories are sent by the truckload, and power wires are taped to table legs (or simply photoshopped out). Soft stylists are professionals who specialize in making linens and other materials seem billowy and “perfectly imperfect.”

An oriental blue lamp with a white lamp shade on an old Victorian ice box used as an end table. Next to it is a wood tray woth a cloche on a plate filled with sea shells, white fenton vase, liberty bell and a oil lamp. Behind the ice box is a large gallery wall of family photos & memborbilia.

The Art of Styling Your Home needs to be realistic

While we should not put too much pressure on ourselves to live up to the unrealistic standards of magazines (whether in interiors, fashion, or elsewhere), it doesn’t hurt to learn a few tips of the trades to make our own homes feel more curated and polished.

The art of styling your home involves more than just space planning and staging. The vital part of the discovery is you. It’s about the personal discovery of what brings you happiness, sourcing and putting together precious items that you love, and arranging them stylishly and beautifully in a way that works, reflects you, and makes you feel at home. Here are a few tips to guide you all the way through.

Add a focal point

Having a focal point will help your home look more welcoming and create a more comfortable resting area if you position the furniture and other items around it. A focal point is the home’s region or area that gets your attention immediately. Usually, it is something visually appealing and intriguing to look at: An extraordinary piece of art in your home, an architectural feature, a piece of furniture, or wall art. However, this can also be an exterior view, bay windows with views of trees, lakes, or mountains from a good seating position inside and outside your home. When entering your home, the focal point should be the first thing that calls your attention or that of your guest. If you haven’t, would you like to try it out?

A hutch filled with China displayed along with antique mason jars, pitcher & bowl,  in the center of the dinin room is a large table with black black chairs. on the table is an oil lamp. In the corner of the space is an extra black chair & a secretary desk in front of the window with sheer curtains.

Tips for creating a focal point with these styling tips.

Without a focal point, a room can quickly become overwhelming and boring. A focal point gives you that “spark” and not-so-easily forgotten picture of your home. Here are a few tips to help you create a focal point in your home.

Accent Wall

Accent wall is easy to create and does not require any particular architectural components. It is easy to DIY from the start. You can create an accent wall with Paints, tiles, or wallpaper.

A Big window

A big window that lets in lots of natural light is beautiful, as it brightens the space, highlights your décor, and creates a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Curtains

Floor-to-ceiling curtains make a beautiful focal point. It gives the room some more space and produces elegant flows.

Mirror

A large mirror suspended in the center of the room will serve as the ideal focal point and brighten the room.

Perk up a Focal Point with a Unique Piece of Furniture

Another excellent approach to establishing a focal point is using a sizable piece of furniture. Perhaps you’ve visited a place and kept thinking about the large, beautiful bed or the long, exquisite couch? Great! That’s because they have become the focal point of the room.

An antique sideboard in front of the living room windows with a lamp, home decor books, terrarium and plants next to a large cozy chair with a cute tabby cat resting.

Fireplace

If you are fortunate enough to have a fireplace in your home, use it! When appropriately highlighted, it will evoke a mystical and cozy feeling.

Adding texture and patterns.

The texture is all about details. Every part of a home, including the flooring, wall finishes, furniture, items, accessories, art, wall panels, and decor, provides an opportunity to add texture.

Utilizing a variety of textiles in everything from rugs to window treatments, throw pillows and blankets, bedding, and furniture upholstery is one of the simplest ways to add texture to your home.

Depending on the mood you want to create, try combining various fabrics, such as leather, velvet, silk, bouclé, wool, cotton, and linen.

For example, adding a soft velvet throw pillow will warm up a sleek leather recliner. Mix linen sheets, faux fur throw pillows, a thick knit blanket, and an upholstered headboard made of natural leather to create a cozy cold weather bed.

Mixing different styles of textures & patterns.

Try mixing patterns like stripes, polka dots, checks, plaids, and flowers in a similar color palette to create texture and a color scheme if you like a more visually exciting setting.

To add textural interest to a monochromatic appearance, be sure to use a variety of finishes, materials, and tones of a single color, just like you would if you wore monochromatic clothing.

Sometimes, the easiest way is a room with blank walls requires a magnificent gallery wall that serves as the focal point. The trick is hanging the artwork on a wall visible from the living room’s main entrance.

A noticeable piece of artwork, such as a painting, a framed portrait, or a gallery wall of pictures, will be the best way to catch people’s attention and become the focal point. Using art pieces makes your home more unique and personalized.

A wall gallery of art & family photos. An oriental blue lamp with a white lamp shade on an old Victorian ice box used as an end table. Next to it is a wood tray with a cloche on a plate filled with sea shells, white fenton vase, liberty bell and a oil lamp. Behind the ice box is a large gallery wall of family photos & memborbilia.

Add decorative items to bring you joy.

Experimenting with accessories and design-conscious items is one of the easiest ways to enhance the beauty of your home. When decorating with accessories, think about using empty space to your advantage by choosing items that bring you joy and happiness.

Look for Interior design styles that give you inspiration.

Everyday life brings us small moments of happiness, and no matter how insignificant they may seem at the time, they all add up to something bigger. Together, these tiny sparks have great power, and when we use them in our homes, they serve as the foundation for genuine happiness.

A large antique China hutch filled with an assortment of dishes including platters & ironstone dishes.

“Be faithful to your own taste, because nothing you really like is ever out of style.”

Billy Baldwin

Choose your window treatments wisely!

You want to add window treatments that will still add a lot of natural light to filter through. Adding sheers is a wonderful option that will still add natural light, especially if you have dak-colored walls.

Add color to brighten up the space.

We all don’t have the time or resources to give our living space a complete facelift. However, there are some clever and simple ways you can utilize color to spruce up your home and make it feel almost completely renovated.

Check out thrift stores and antique shops o find unique items that reflect your style.

It takes quite an effort to define your personal style. However, by shopping at thrift stores or antique shops, you can create a style that reflects your unique style for less than traditional retail prices!

Open shelving to display your collection is a great way to display your decorative elements.

Over the years, with many collections, you need space to display your small objects. Therefore, it’s a good idea to display the shelving to give it the right balance on the wall space to create a collected look.

Adding light fixtures and table lamps in the room.

Whatever your home decor style, the space’s most important functional element is lighting. You want the overhead lighting to be the appropriate size for the room, especially when lamps are added to the room’s rest. Add lamps of different heights to give your home a look of timeless interiors, and overhead lighting provides visual interest to the space.

Coffee table books for visual interest

Displaying your small collection of books on the end tables or coffee table is a personal preference; however, it adds height for showcasing small decor items.

 Gather some paint samples and play around with colors for your space.

Choosing the perfect paint colors will make your home feel refreshed.

The Art of Styling Your Home always includes fresh flowers.

The important design element for interior styling is adding fresh flowers to make the room feel alive, whether displayed on the dining room table or in the bedroom on the side tables. This is one of those design secrets that is a given to add some color and make the space elegant.

A living room filled with antiques & vintage decor with a cozy & inviting atmosphere.

Commonly Asked Questions

How can I decorate my home on a tight budget?

Decorating on a budget is all about creativity and resourcefulness. Start by shopping your home—repurpose items you already own. Look for treasures at thrift stores, flea markets, or yard sales.

DIY projects like painting furniture, creating your own wall art, or sewing pillow covers can save money while adding a personal touch. Don’t forget to check online marketplaces for budget-friendly finds!

What are some affordable ways to make my home look more stylish?

Focus on small, impactful changes like adding throw pillows, layering rugs, or incorporating statement lighting. A fresh coat of paint can transform a room without costing much. Use greenery, like potted plants or faux foliage, to add life to your space.

Another budget-friendly upgrade is swapping out old hardware on cabinets and drawers for stylish options.

How do I mix different design styles without clashing?

To tie everything together, start with a unifying element, like a consistent color palette or similar textures. Combine contrasting styles by blending old and new, such as pairing a vintage coffee table with modern chairs.

Balance is key—if one style is bold, let the other play a more subtle role. Mixing design styles adds depth and personality to your home.

Can I use thrifted items in a modern or minimalist design?

Absolutely! Thrifted items can add character and uniqueness to modern or minimalist spaces. Look for pieces with clean lines or neutral tones that complement your aesthetic.

Vintage finds, like a mid-century chair or a simple ceramic vase, can serve as conversation starters while maintaining a minimalist vibe.

What are some easy ways to make mismatched furniture work together?

Unify mismatched furniture by coordinating colors or materials. Paint pieces in similar tones or add matching cushions or throws. Using a rug with multiple colors can help tie together different styles.

Embrace the eclectic look by repeating patterns or textures throughout the room to create harmony.

In the dining room of an old house a cast iron radiator to heat the home. Above the radiator is a plate rack to store platters. Next to it a vintage floral knitting box. On the wall next to the plate rack is a ceramic plate handcrafted by Lorraine Kay.

Final Thoughts…

Styling your home is truly an art that allows you to express your personality, creativity, and individuality. Whether you’re working with a modest budget or blending contrasting design styles, the magic lies in the details and the story your space tells. Embrace imperfections, trust your instincts, and let your home reflect your journey and the things you love most.

Ultimately, your home should be a sanctuary that feels welcoming, comfortable, and uniquely yours. Remember, styling isn’t about perfection but creating a space that brings you joy.

I hope these tips for The Art of Styling Your Home have helped you feel inspired!

Name image for Dusty at Linen and WildflowersIf you want to follow along on our home restoration/renovation plans and all of our exciting antique & thrift finds, be sure to check out Linen and Wildflowers on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest! And don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter to receive updates.

American Country Style Home Decor

Designing a Wall Gallery

18 Inexpensive Ideas to Update Your Space

A mockup of a free downloads, such as a Chrsitmas cards, checklist, Art work and more. In the corner of the mockup is a camera just for visual appeal.

Gain Access to the Freebie Library

Accessing the freebie library is easy and provides many helpful resources to boost creativity and organization. Inside, you’ll find a variety of free downloads like art prints, handy checklists, a cleaning list, a gardening journal, and much more. Whether you want to stay organized, inspired, or add charm to your home or work, these freebies are designed to help you along the way! Visit the library, pick what you need, and enjoy these exclusive resources today.

16 Comments

  1. Love these tips! Perfectly imperfect is just what I need to focus on. Also, giving permission to keep the heirlooms that don’t perfectly fit in. Thanks for all of the suggestions!

  2. I love this post so much. I’m not very good at styling my home intentionally, but now and then I turn and look at a room and feel “Ahhh, it’s just right!” But it’s admittedly usually accidental. Having read these tips, I feel like I could actually go in and make some improvements without too much effort. Thank you!

  3. I definitely love the creative process of styling my home. In fact, it’s probably my favorite part of the entire process — besides curating it.

  4. I’ve started thinking more about this as I’ve been reading about Hygge. I fight clutter with five homeschooled kids but I think I just need to think of this idea like I do all other ideas that require my creativity, right?

  5. Since I am going through our house and decluttering, organizing and decorating, I have found so much inspiration from your site! Thank you for breaking it down so that a newbie like me can figure it out!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.