There are so many ways to create impact in a space. Sometimes impact is created by subtle additions of colour, textures, or forms or features can be in your face - bold.
I tend to sit in the subtle camp. I enjoy finding treasures in a space and then visually connecting them to create points of interest- a kind of meandering trip while you sit comfortably at your computer or in someone's home.
Art
The three small artworks hung vertically (lower than usually seen) act as a perfect foil for the hanging lamp. The flowers soften all the vertical movement and it is further calmed by the horizontal lines of the headboard and the fluffy pillows. In a space that is neutral, you have to rely on other elements beside colour to excite the eye.
The artwork over the banquette keeps drawing me in. The little hint of blue against the yellow school bus connects to the flowers and pillows. I would be even happier seeing just the banquette, table and art. This would allow the viewer to really appreciate the art. Often less is more.
Flowers
There's so much I love about this room: the simple lines in furniture; the light floor; the minimalist arrangements in the bookcase; the purple over the fireplace. The crowning glory for me is the tall vase of calla lilies by the window. They are like an exclamation point.
The natural elements in this space keep your eyes moving . Nothing looks as crisp as plants in an all white space.
Pillows
Never underestimate the power of pillows to add interest to a blah space. This room goes from ordinary to inviting because of the pillows. The variety in size, shape and textures draws the eye. Who know crocheted squares could look so good? The lushness of the pillows against the distressed headboard and simple bedclothes adds further interest.
Headboards The inclusion of a headboard that mimics waves below the picture of the whale is striking. The bedding has a simple nautical feeling in blue and white.
Something as simple as a painted strip behind a bed to act as a headboard can be very inviting. The repetition of lavender makes this a calm space. If you wanted to rev it up a little, magenta pillows would do the trick.
Lamps
The symmetrical placement of two lamps in this work space provides a frame for the asymmetrical gold branch. Your eye is led there by the gold chair. The aqua stool creates variety in colour.
Lamps don't have to be huge to be effective. The simple silver lamp fills the empty space above the art work. Remember lamps can do more than shed light.
Doors Sometimes doors complete a room either through interesting lines or colour. These doors have both.
