Stylists tell all

You love decorating magazines—the rooms look perfect, with everything just so. But do people really live like that, you wonder. Well, yes and no. Often, even beautifully decorated rooms need a little primping. That's where a stylist comes in. Here we tell you how you can make the most of what you've got!

Reduce clutter and create vignettes. The most common problem in well-used living rooms is the amount of clutter that accumulates over time. After all, cherished mementos won't mean much if you can't see them. The solution? It's as easy as 1-2-3. First, determine what's essential, what has to stay. Second, consider everything else extraneous and start editing. Third, create attractive vignettes by rearranging the objects that remain.

Grouping like objects gives them greater impact than if they are scattered throughout a room. From books to candles, think in multiples.

Layering bed linens sets the mood. A well-dressed bed—the most prominent piece in a bedroom—should seduce you. Imagine a bed's large, flat surface as a 3-D canvas and get creative. Layer a mix of patterned and solid linens in coordinating colours, folding down top covers to reveal pretty sheets underneath. Pile on cushions in a variety of shapes; stuff limp cushion corners with extra batting for a finished look. A double-sided throw casually draped across the bed is more appealing than a neatly folded one. And mix up textures, too, such as velvet, wool, silk and cotton.

Avoid matching sets of sink accessories on a bathroom vanity—containers of similar materials offer more visual interest and create a sense of luxury. Continue the hotel-like look with beautiful soaps, fresh flowers and a bowl of rolled linens instead of one lonely towel.

A common visual element, such as colour, creates harmony among a collection of non-matching china. Remember, don't overstuff a display case—a little empty space allows the beauty of each object to stand out.

Grouped artwork makes a strong statement. Before hammering a nail, plan the arrangement in advance by cutting frame shapes out of paper and lightly taping them to the wall.

Treat open shelves as an opportunity for display as well as storage. Decide which items you want to highlight and position them near the centre, then build the arrangement around them, leaving plenty of empty space between clusters. As you arrange objects, step back frequently to get a better perspective and to ensure a balanced composition.

Image courtesy of Crate & Barrel

Read more in Decorating & Design and Styling Secrets