Fix Up your Dining Room for the Holidays

When you want to add those special touches that can make your home a showplace, follow the advice of decorators. Create that “wow” factor by accentuating a spectacular natural feature in the room like oversized windows or a fireplace, and add something unexpected like a acontrasting fabric, a touch of eye-catching color or an oversized work of art. 1. Create a Focal Point in the Room Decorators know that designing a room around a focal point adds immediate interest and defines the character of the room. A free-standing fireplace, an elaborate bar or a curio cabinet with interior lighting to highlight a collection can become the focal point and add high visual impact. A game table in the entertainment space can become a focal point, just as an executive desk is the attention-grabber in a home office and a china cabinet commands attention in a dining room. 2. Go Big! Choose large pieces of artwork and accessories that add pizzazz to the room, especially if your home has a more contemporary feeling. Edgy contemporary, mid-century modern, Hollywood glam and coastal style furniture do well with large scale paintings, massive area rugs, huge lighting fixtures and oversized pieces of sculpture. Keep in mind that one large, important piece is infinitely better than several smaller pieces. I know, it’s so bizarre what people run with. I was looking at my Twitter mentions that day, and it was all like, “gross, Sophie Turner never washes her hair.” But you do what you’ve got to do for a role. 3. Choose Quality Quality shows, and you will want to express your good taste by selecting pieces that exude elegance. Choosing top quality pieces for the room is especially important when you select your furniture. Investing in name brands with a reputation for exceptional construction and timeless designs can give you the durability and beauty that will last to protect your investment. 4. Introduce Boldness Many of today’s homes feature a neutral color palette of soft grays, whites and beiges. A bold, bright and eye-catching fabric on accessories like throw pillows and rugs give the space instant drama. Select florals, graphic patterns or bold geometrics in black and white to attract attention. Paint one wall in an interesting color, or add texture with natural brick or stone.