Always keep your collections together, rather than scattered throughout the house. Do use bookends, and not the kind from the office superstore! There are a host of soft Curtain Parts intriguing ones to choose from including fancy ornamental ironwork, globes on stands, any manner of animal (monkeys and elephants seem most prolific), and, of course, architectural features like columns, finials and acanthus leaves. Avoid running books clear across a shelf, because it is heavy looking. Create interest by adding art objects and photographs between clusters of books. Photographs are most effective when grouped by like frame, such as all gold together, all silver, all wood and such. Vary the sizes so that they can be stacked with tall in the back and smaller in front.

The key to accessories and accents is to make it personal. Try to get pieces you really enjoy rather than just space fillers. Be sure to include family mementos and treasures from your travels, even children’s crafts can be shown off. Display your collectibles, no matter what the item. When effectively presented personal collections add personality and interest. If you aren’t going to enjoy it, why have it?! Even sports memorabilia (not just for guys!) can be well arranged and handsomely showcased.Consider putting decorative accessories on an angle. Placed at an angle, objects are easier to view from all sides, have a greater sense of movement and are less static visually.

Great places to shop for decorative accents are Hill Street Warehouse, Pier 1 Imports, Home Expo, and your favorite local designer who probably keeps special accents on hand for just such an opportunity.Personalizing your home may seem overwhelming, and you may feel like you don’t know where to start. Just use these steps, take your time and have fun with it. If you are more inclined to get it all done at once and don’t know where to start, call a qualified design professional. Their expertise and guidance can be invaluable, and many work by the hour, both consulting and sourcing. Your home is your castle, your haven, your place to enjoy, so take the time to make it reflect who you are!