Making a house feel like a home takes time. Personalizing a space can be a bit daunting, especially if you’re starting relatively from scratch. Here’s the good news: When it comes to designing a home that feels both beautiful and functional, small, intentional elements can have the biggest impact of all.
In fact, a few design choices can totally transform the way your home looks and feels. Create a statement in your space (without a total renovation!) by including the following five elements.
1: Stylish Statement Mirrors
A well-placed mirror can instantly elevate a space by reflecting light and making rooms feel larger than they actually are. Hang one across from a window to double the daylight, or above a console table to create an eye-catching focal point.
In addition to being downright useful, oversized or uniquely framed mirrors can add a splash of personality to an otherwise utilitarian object. Whether you’re filling space on a large wall with a Custom Framed Mirror, reviving tired builder-grade bathroom vanity mirrors with Add A Frame®, or adding a modern touch to any room with a ready-to-hang Decorative Mirror, we have what you need.
2: Lighting That Sets the Mood
Never underestimate the difference that great lighting can make. Like mirrors, light fixtures go beyond functionality—they can change the entire mood of a room. From elegant chandeliers to modern sconces, the right lighting transforms a space’s ambiance.
Layering is the ticket to a cozy space. Combine ambient lighting (like large overhead fixtures), task lighting (such as reading lamps), and accent lighting (think wall sconces or above-cabinet LED strips) to create a sense of depth. Installing dimmers gives you even more control over the vibe—from bright and energizing to soft and intimate, depending on what the moment needs. Don’t forget: Natural light is equally impactful. Strategically placing mirrors to reflect sunlight can brighten even the darkest corners.
3: Intentional Color & Texture
Whether it’s through paint, wallpaper, or textiles, color and texture define the feel of a space. The trick? Change it up. Don’t play it safe by sticking to just one theme, like “sleek” or “farmhouse.” Mixing up the textures and including a range of colors keeps a space from feeling one-dimensional and boring.
Deep blues and emerald greens can add drama and sophistication, while soft neutrals like taupe, ivory, or sage create a calming retreat. Mixing textures—like wood, metal, and various fabrics—adds depth and visual interest. To create a collected feel, think in layers: a velvet throw on a linen sofa, a woven jute rug beneath a glass-top coffee table, or a contemporary framed mirror on an intricately detailed panel of wallpaper.
RELATED READ: 5 Tips for Mixing and Matching Colors in Home Design
4: Thoughtful Furniture & Layout
The way furniture is arranged impacts both the flow and functionality of your home. Start by identifying your room’s existing non-negotiables—maybe it's a fireplace, a floor-to-ceiling window, or a large bed that needs a certain orientation. Then, consider investing in key pieces that balance style and comfort—like a statement sofa or a beautifully framed mirror above a console—to achieve an anchored, cohesive look.
From there, you can add on more easily interchangeable pieces like rugs, end tables, and floor lamps. Try and avoid overcrowding a space. It’s better to live with less for a while and see how you use and move in a room before you commit to too many pieces!
5: Personal Touches & Art
The most impactful homes feel personal. Lived in. Human. Art, framed family photos, and meaningful decor pieces tell a story and reflect the lives of those who live there. You are not supposed to live in a catalog—your space should showcase the real you! Layering in these small touches brings warmth to a home and ensures your space reflects your true personality and style.
In sum, an all-out renovation is not necessary to create a home that feels up-to-date and customized to your taste. By focusing on a few impactful elements—like statement mirrors, thoughtful lighting, layered textures, savvy layouts, and personal decor—you can transform your house into a place you are proud to call home.