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Seven Ways to Emphasize a Decor Style by: Julie Dana After searching decorating books, using trial and error decorating, and growing up a little bit, you have finally found the style of decorating that you really love. Your style could be Arts & Crafts, French Country, Asian, or Metro Hip. If you are still searching for your style or want a second opinion on what your general home style really is, try taking the fun style quiz on http//:www.thehomestylist.com. Now that you have identified a décor style, the challenging part may now be to implement that style and make it substantial enough so others will notice. There are seven simple elements that will really help you emphasize this great look. 1. Choose a focal point that will reflect your décor style. This signature piece is usually the most dominate item you see and sets the tone of the room. If this piece is not your specific style, the room will not look its best. An example could be a beautiful Queen Anne armoire for a Classic Traditional style or a large rustic log mantel for the Mountain Lodge look. 2. Use colors that are common to that specific style. Different décor styles are usually shown with a collection of colors that are prominent for that palette. Make sure your room has those colors. For example, French Country is well known for its pretty yellows and blues. Americana Style would not be the same without red, white and blue. 3. Collect in a theme that emphasizes that style. Every ones needs a conversation piece or collection that demonstrates the owner's personality and interests. A collection also doesn't need to be large just 3 to 5 objects. Ginger jars for the Asian Décor or cute porcelain teapots to emphasize an English Garden style. 4. Frame an authentic object that is original to the country or era. This simple task does not have to be expensive. Old Postcards from Italy for your Tuscany Villa Style or wine labels from France for a European Look will add authenticity and personal touch to the décor. 5. Purchase a large coffee table book to demonstrate that décor. Large beautiful books can subtly emphasis the style you enjoy. The book does need to be a decor books but rather a topic that is related to the style. For example, a Vintage Advertisements for the Shabby Chic look, or Andy Warhol book for the Metro-Modern look. 6. Use plants or flowers that coordinate with the décor. The greenery can be real or artificial as long as they look healthy. Nothing spoils a designer-look like a dying plant. Use cactus for the Southwestern look or a great palm tree for the Tropical style. 7. Review all you accents and accessories to make sure they blend with your new found style. By reviewing each element individually to see if it blends (not necessary perfectly matches), you can make sure you have a well-coordinated look. Look for a geometric patterned pillow for a Modern look; search for fringed lampshades for an Old World style. Remember decorating is a process. Searching for those perfect accessories to emphasize your style is part of the fun. These tips will help you add the style you want to the home you love. About The Author Julie Dana is a professional Interior Redesigner and Accredited Staging Professional with www.thehomestylist.com. She can be reached at mailto:julie@thehomestylist.com. julie@thehomestylist.com This article was posted on March '10
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