Accessorize your home with warmth in mind

It’s time to accessorize your home for the winter. Before heading to the store, plan out what you need and where you will put your new accessories. Think large scale and less is more! Too many small accessories can look like clutter. Another rule of thumb is to group items in three or five.

Combining textures is another effective way to add interest to a space. As a general rule, your accessories should be the accent of colour in a room. Here are five ways to warm up your home and be on trend this fall and winter:

1) Play with plaid

Update your bedroom for the cooler months by adding pops of rich red and plaid. You can accomplish this with accents or by purchasing a new bedroom ensemble for a new cozy look.

2) Faux fur throws

Photo by Jenny Quicksall Photography (Design: Jo-Ann Capelaci Design)

If you want to be on trend and warm up your space, a faux fur throw may be a perfect addition. Arrange your faux fur throw similar to the picture to create a luxurious warm look in your bedroom. It’s also a welcome addition in family or living rooms. Enjoy snuggling under a plush faux fur with a good book or your loved one.

3) Fresh towels

Purchasing new, fluffy, towels - colourful or white - is a great way to refresh your bathroom. A couple towels on a wall rack and a hand towel by the sink really brings a small space together, and if the colour really stands out, it will feel like a whole new space.

4) Cinnamon pillows

Mason Homes, Parklands

Update your living or family room with some cinnamon pillows and a gold knit throw to carry you right through the winter months. I often change up the look of a room by incorporating different accessories for each season. Use cool colour tones for the warmer months and warm tones for fall and winter months. Same room, fresh new look!

5) Bring the accessories inside

Mason Homes, Parklands

Do you have some vintage accessories in your garage or storage area collecting dust? You may be able to bring them inside and incorporate them into your décor. You are going to be spending a lot more time inside in the coming months so why not create a room to embrace your hobbies.

This sports themed room is perfect for watching the game or enjoying time with friends and family. If you don’t have any of your own vintage items then browse second hand or antique stores to pick up treasures.

Merriam-Webster’s dictionary defines “accessory” as “an object or device not essential in itself but adding to the beauty, convenience or effectiveness of something else.” When deciding on how best to accessorize your space, consider the definition of accessory before taking action.

Is it beautiful? Does it add convenience or improve function? Is it useful or does it add value? If none of these apply, then it is not the right choice. In addition, keep in mind focal points. You don’t need to fill up every blank space. Some blank areas provide calm and balance in a room.

Jo-Ann Capelaci is president and principal interior designer of Colours & Concepts Inc. The award winning company specializes in model homes and colour and upgrade selections for builders. They have been helping new home buyers choose finishes for their homes for over 20 years. Jo-Ann is dedicated to helping new home buyers create a model home feeling in their new home. Look for future articles on other topics to assist in decorating and designing your new home.