We don't think much about accent furniture when we first furnish our homes. Our priority is creating a functional space, so we naturally focus on acquiring the essentials: the dining table, the bed, the couch, and the storage pieces.
When things settle, and we have time to pause and actually look at our surroundings, we may find empty pockets of space that lack a spark of personality or feel unfinished. That's where accent furniture comes in. It injects character and depth into your space so that it truly feels like home. Here are a few tips to help you choose the perfect accent piece.
Break Lines and Angles with Curves
Lines and angles dominate our living spaces, from the walls, doorways, and even the structure of most pieces of furniture. To soften these rigid forms, introduce an accent piece that features curves and an organic form. For example, a side table with a curved base, a large round ottoman, or a recliner with half-moon arms.
Create Contrast with Colors
When choosing accent furniture, make sure to take stock of the existing color palette in your space. What are the dominant colors, like your walls or flooring? What are the secondary shades, like your sofa and cabinets? Are the undertones warm, cooler, or neutral?
Once you have a color inventory, use the color wheel to your advantage. Color is a powerful tool for creating interest, so even if you can't find a uniquely shaped piece, you can choose one with an eye-catching color instead. Contrasting colors like blue and orange or red and green naturally pop against each other. So, for instance, if your living room is painted with the softest hint of green, a pastel pink or warm orange armchair stands out.
One tried-and-true design formula is the 60-30-10 rule: 60 percent dominant color, 30 percent secondary, and 10 percent accents. This 10 percent is a generous playing field, allowing you to explore a variety of styles and colors. Even if the accent piece introduces an unconventional color, you can tie it into the room with accessories.
Add Pizzazz with Texture
Aside from color, texture is another way to present layers of character. The interplay of different textures adds a tactile dimension to your space, making it more alive.
If a room is predominantly smooth and polished, with hardwood floors and sleek solid wood furniture, introduce contrast with accent pieces featuring rich textures. For instance, a statement chair upholstered in nubby fabric, a large, knitted pouf, or a bench with tufted detailing.
Bring in Unique Materials
Expounding on the idea of texture, consider how the materials of your accent furniture can create contrast within your space. If a room is heavily dominated by wood, introduce a piece with metal accents—like a chair with a metal frame or a coffee table with a glass top—to create layers of texture.
Conversely, if your space is modern and sleek, a handcrafted solid wood piece can add warmth that feels unexpected and fresh.
Set Up a Stylish Vignette
Think about creating small, curated scenes within your space. For instance, in a typical living room layout with a sofa and coffee table, you could establish a reading nook as a curated scene. The focal point of this vignette would be a stylish accent chair, flanked by carefully chosen objects to complete the scene, perhaps a small side table and a floor lamp. These vignettes anchor your space and give your accent pieces context and purpose.
Emphasize the Piece with Decor
A stunning piece of accent furniture can certainly stand on its own, but it can use the company of thoughtfully chosen decor. For instance, a handmade wooden dresser can be styled with a framed artwork leaning against the wall on its surface, coupled with a table lamp, and a vase. These accompanying elements not only highlight the beauty of wood but also further define the dresser as a cohesive focal point within the room.
***
The finishing touch is what makes a space feel intentional and complete. With the right accent furniture, you can bring your home to life. So, take your time, explore your options, and have fun finding the perfect accent piece for your space.