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[Oznell]

Over the years, as an interior design fan, I've read tons of design tips and principles.  Some I heed, some I ignore.  But there's usually something that hits right on target for each person wanting to create a customized, pleasing home environment.

What's the best counsel you've ever received, for you?  How have you applied it in your space?

I LOVE so many objects---  candlesticks, vases, prints and paintings, ginger jars, water pitchers, on and on.   Yet, I don't like a too "busy" look in rooms.

So the tips that help me the most have to do with dealing with accessories.  Here's the advice that hits me hardest:

"Have fewer, but BIGGER accessories that you love, to reduce visual clutter.   Try to limit trinkets, or objects smaller than a cantaloupe."

Wish I could remember who made that cantaloupe remark!  It's helped so much!

Of course I have treasures, and a few heirlooms I'll always love and display, regardless of size.  And any small items I tend to corral in my one, glass-fronted curio cabinet, or on a tray with larger objects.

I make far fewer decor acquisitions these days, but have mostly stuck to 'bigger than canteloupe'.   Last year found a 14 inch and 12 inch Broyhill vase, and a large pitcher:

 Fewer but bigger items really works for me.  I have a few  bins in the basement, and rotate things in and out, which also really helps.

I pruned my "blue and white" collection, down to one huge vintage ginger jar, and one large pitcher.  Also purged some of my small glass votives, in favor of my old large Irish cut crystal hurricane.  Even a tiny tea light burning in it looks sparkly and magical.  (I do keep a few small votives too, to tuck around, but prefer the one larger for impact.)

For me, the "large" principle also works for wall art and mirrors.  Having a few large, impactful prints or paintings, reads as more serene on my walls, than lots of little items.

Anyway, I'm interested in what are the most useful "principle" others of you who love to decorate have found to work for you?  

[Sooner]

Groups of three

Pay attention to texture

Don't try to match wood that doesn't really match because it will "look like you just missed."

Bigger pieces of furniture rather than a lot of  little fiddly ones

[SoX]

"Add a touch of black to anchor a room ... "  I've always subscribed to this piece of advice from an interior designer friend.   

It can be as simple as the matting or frame of a painting, a small vase or bowl.  It gives the eyes a place to rest ...  

[pupwhipped]

Alas, after forty years of collecting, I fear I have far too many cantaloupes...and I love them one and all and cannot part.  Needless to say I need to start shopping for watermelons. Ha! Better yet, stop shopping all together!

[kaydee50]

I was told once that as long as I love each item, it will all go together.  Eclectic, I guess.

[Q4u]

As an ex-antique dealer I have always bought items that I've loved, most I've turned around and resold.... my forte' being furniture, American/English primitive and European/American graniteware/enamelware.... and some I've kept and even now many years later I'll go by a piece and think to myself "I'm SO glad I bought that!!"  

I've personally combined my love of primitive antiques and some pieces of practical made-now pieces and love the farmhouse look I've created.  I don't have much in the way of cantalopes, but would add them when I've fallen in love. The best advice I've ever received has been to buy what I love.... it's worked for me.  

[Brisky]

I buy what I love... prints and painting are very much, my thing.I am not influenced by modern or abstract art. I love the old masters. I love a more traditional home. I guess I like casual but traditional.
Does that make sense?....🙂

[PA Mom-mom]

@Oznell  I don't know if this apropos, but my SIL suggested we widen the archway between the dining room and the living room to expand our dining area to accommodate more than 24 people. It was the best advice ever! Also, outlets on every wall in the basement.

[stevieb]

@Oznell  Off the top of my head there are a few that come to mind. If I thought about it, I'm guessing there are more but... First, if you love it you will find a place for it... Second, every room needs a bit of black... And finally, used properly and combined well, many colors can work as a neutral and related, many colors can work together that you'd never think could...

[FastDogWalker2]

Float the furniture when possible - don't press everything up against the walls.