Design lesson: Entertaining your senses

Scent
It's true that guests can't help wandering into the kitchen. It's likely the aroma of food being prepared that draws them in. Beyond the kitchen, I place scented candles or fragrant plants like rosemary here and there to fill a space with seductive perfume. Incense may be too strong for the dining room, but it's ideal for a powder room. Fresh flowers are always right. During the holidays, evergreen boughs create lush and fragrant arrangements.

Taste
I wouldn't describe myself as a great cook, so I refrain from complicated recipes that stress me out. "Keep it simple" is my motto, and I try to feature seasonal ingredients. I do, however, have a knack for making great coffee, so I enhance my coffee service with fresh whipped cream, dark chocolate shavings and cinnamon.

Sight
I've learned that an object of beauty, whether it's a sofa or a vase, is best appreciated when there's empty space surrounding it. So at least once a year, I rearrange my rooms, culling the surplus from the necessary. My husband and I reposition the furniture, angling it toward the fireplace in winter and outdoor vistas in summer. Including organic elements like plants, natural materials and water features keeps interiors alive. Lighting affects us physiologically and emotionally, so it's essential to create a layered scheme combining ambient, task and decorative illumination. Glittering candles dress up the mantel and dining table, dramatic uplighting turns a plant into sculpture, a twinkling chandelier encircles guests in a glow, and a floor lamp with a black opaque shade highlights a group of collectibles. Speaking of collections, they're the personality of a room, so make yours meaningful. I collect artwork. I love portaits, photography of abandoned buildings and oil paintings of fanciful subjects. Groupings needn't be elaborate to be effective: my best friend displays botanical prints, and my Aunt Sandi collects miniature shoes. 

Read more in Decorating & Design and Design Lesson