By Laura Jackson
Often it’s the smallest details that end up making the biggest difference—in life and home design. Thoughtful interior details make a house come alive while allowing you to create a space that truly characterizes the people who call it home.
Adding Character
Even if doorknobs and cabinet hardware may not be the sexiest topics of conversation, it’s surprising the huge impact these types of small details can accomplish. Beautiful brushed nickel and oil rubbed bronze finishes are extremely popular choices today and can be seen adding charm with many different types of knobs, fixtures and handles. Also in demand are the beauty of glass knobs that add an element of charisma and old world appeal to all sorts of rooms.
In many homes, the ceilings are often overlooked and perhaps lucky to receive a fresh coat of white paint during a remodel. However, enhancing a ceiling’s look with the addition of wood planking has become a great alternative for a variety of designs. Wood ceiling treatments bring an interesting depth and dimension along with an alluring warmth and texture.
“When it comes to upholstery, sometimes less is just plain boring,” said Shayne Hemsley of Hamilton Park Interiors. Often people will purchase a neutral sofa and chairs for fear of tiring of a specific color or pattern too quickly. That’s actually a good idea as it allows you to create interest with pillows, accessories, art and rugs. For a strong, dramatic look, accents can introduce a pop of color or if you prefer, they can create a subtle sophisticated look through texture and pattern.”
“I like to take elements from the outside and bring them in,” said Chris Quinones, an interior designer from Robert Kelly Home. “There is an unexpected visual energy that comes from nature’s imperfections.”
Creating Connectivity
Finding a way to balance color schemes with that perfect vase, mirror, or focal piece of art can form valuable cohesive design links within your home. However, one design faux pas regularly made by homeowners is simply a matter of too much of a good thing. Attempting to add interest by accumulating extra details in the form of excess accessories without a clear sense of purpose gives you the opposite problem of boring—the dreaded clutter.
“When updating a room, my first intent is to simplify, meaning to clear out the items that no longer have a purpose. I always have the room’s scale in mind, and determine the focal point of the space,” explains Kelly Wallman of San Francisco Design.
“I still think paint is the easiest way to change a room. I do accent walls a lot especially in bedrooms. For one house that was all white, just changing the headboard wall colors and tying into the bedding and artwork gave the whole room a more cohesive look,” said Andrea Damiano with Sticks & Stones Furniture, Accessories & Design.
Mixing It Up
Using a home’s existing architectural style as a guide is important when deciding upon the right details and finishes to add life to a home, but spicing it up with variety is what makes it interesting. Finding innovative combinations that blend the eclectic with traditional, old with new, or rustic with sleek brings welcomed contrast and surprise.
When it comes to balancing the details, Barclay Butera believes in the value of layering diverse styles, textiles and textures. He explains, “Layering is all about the fearless use of color and pattern, but it also somehow has to make sense. The layered look works when it ties together with either a similar color palette or a lifestyle collection.”
Making It Your Own
The experts agree—making your space your own means adding details that mean something to you. Whether it’s a unique piece from your travels, your favorite vintage lamp, or an antique armoire that’s been in your family for years, they add irreplaceable style and personality to your overall design. A small change can refresh your whole outlook and breathe new life into an otherwise ordinary space.
Special Thanks:
Barclay Butera, Barclay Butera Interiors • barclaybutera.com
Andrea Damiano, Sticks & Stones Furniture, Accessories & Design sticksandstonespc.com
Shayne Hemsley, Hamilton Park Interiors hamiltonparkinteriors.com
Kelly Wallman, San Francisco Design • sanfranciscodesign.com
Chris Quinones, Robert Kelly Home • robertkellygallery.com
