While functionality for furniture is usually paramount, some pieces exist purely to look good — enter the accent chair! A staple statement piece for many homes, accent chairs can be used to add colour, height or texture to any landscape in your home. From the living room to the bedroom, a well-placed accent chair can take a space from simple to stunning. Selecting and styling such an out-there piece of furniture can seem like a daunting task, but we’re here to help you through the process. 

armchair

What’s it all for?

Before you even start looking for your accent chair, it’s important to define its purpose in your home. Are you going to have it in the bedroom as a place to pop your outfit options, or perhaps you want an extra place to perch in the living room? Maybe you’re buying it strictly as an ornamental piece, in which case comfort won’t factor into the equation. Whatever you choose, having a base idea of your chair’s location and purpose can help inform your decision. 

Stay true to your taste

The clue is in the name — an accent chair should work with your existing decor as opposed to sticking out like a sore thumb. Abandoning your taste for one piece will make your space look confused. Don’t try to reverse-engineer your decorating scheme based on the chair — if you’re not sure which direction you want to go in for a room, work on a theme first and pick your chair later. 

occasional chairs

Consider your colours

This is where reading the room comes in handy! Take a look at the overall tonal scheme of the space where you want to place the chair. Is it full of warm, golden tones or cooler hues? Do you favour pastels or primary colours? Once you’ve figured out your vibe, use a colour wheel to play with potential clashing combinations for your accent chair. By getting a quick visual snapshot of how tones work together, you can have a better idea of what colour family to focus on when shopping for your chair. Remember not to count out neutrals — an opulent leather chair can make a great accent. 

brown accent chair

Know when to restrain yourself

There’s a fine line between a piece of furniture being complementary or overpowering — so be mindful not to cross it. If a loud print is what your heart desires, you can go for it. However, something like a subtle floral or a sporadic polka-dot print gives a nod to prints without becoming too much to handle. Opting for a bold block colour will make it easier to work your accent chair into your existing decorating scheme. 

colourful accent chairs

Co-ordinating can be cool

You may think contrast is the only way to roll with an accent chair, but that’s not true. While picking tones from the opposite ends of the colour wheel can indeed have a striking effect, playing within your existing palette can make it pop even further. If you’re already working with a quirky and colourful interior, pulling a shade from one of your favourite pieces and picking a chair to match can create a striking effect. 

Create a nook

Got an empty corner? That’s an opportunity for a nook! An accent chair or two can transform a bare spot into its own unique space. If you want to use the corner as a reading nook, you can incorporate a bookcase or a floor lamp for extra light. Just be sure to factor comfort into the equation — if you’re going to be spending some quality time in the corner, you want something like a recliner chair with plenty of cushioning that you can sink into. A rocking chair can also add some relaxing and old-world charm to the space. 

styling accent chair

Add accessories

When it comes to making your accent chair really tie in with the rest of your decor, the right accessories are key. Using cushions or throws that connect with the colour scheme of your sofa can make the overall look more cohesive. Another benefit of throw pillows is being able to swap out the covers to change looks according to your whims — you can play with colours, textures and even comfort levels if your chair is serving a more practical purpose.

Don’t be afraid

An accent chair is an opportunity to get outside of your comfort zone, so don’t be afraid to make a splash! You can use your chair to add some colour to a more muted space or even further saturate a bright landscape. That being said, it’s wise to keep tones throughout the room matching — deeper neutrals and richer colours make a beautiful match, while lighter neutrals play well with softer pastel tones. Shapes are also a fun way to add interest without going overboard on colour — something like a tub chair, swivel armchair or wingback chair can make a real statement. 

Nothing brings people together like plonking down in front of the TV. Whether you’re a solo dweller who watches The Great British Bake-Off to unwind, part of a family who fights over the remote or even one half of a couple who has to sync up your shows with your partner — most of us spend a bit of time in front of the screen. That being said, if your TV unit takes pride of place in your living room, it deserves to shine like the star it is. 

If you’re looking for TV unit decor ideas that will take your living space to the next level, you’ve come to the right place.

Mount it

The first step on your TV decor journey is a suggestion that will maximise your space — wall mounting your TV. From a design perspective, this frees up your TV unit to hold more items without looking cluttered or competing for space with a big, black square. Popping your TV on the wall also means no unsightly cords peeking out. Mounting your TV also makes the room look larger overall, creating the illusion of more space. It’s a win-win!

Your own private gallery

Why not turn your TV wall into a work of art? Curate a collection of framed pieces to place around your wall-mounted TV and watch as it melts into the background. The trick to pulling this off is to stick with the same (or similar) coloured frames for cohesion — sticking with black will help you telly blend in even more. With the right spacing and placement, as well as a monochromatic approach to the art and frames, your wall will look chic and modern. 

tv unit

Big on balance

Embracing symmetry in your TV unit decor can create a truly striking visual effect. Choose a handful of feature items for your TV unit and then focus your attention to the sides of the display. Things like immaculately placed wall art or even two tall, slim bookshelves flanking your TV unit can add a sense of formality, structure and sophistication to your living area. If it seems too rigid, you can tone it down by adding some softness to the space — think stacks of books or whimsical floral arrangements on the TV unit itself. 

tv unit design ideas

Left of centre

In the complete opposite vein to symmetry, trying an off-centre look is also an option for your TV unit decor. Placing the unit to the left or right of the TV gives you ample space to get playful with your decor. Use the extra room to highlight sculptural items that create a bold presence — varying sized book piles, chunky candlesticks, statement vases and accent table lamps are all fabulous options. 

Break from tradition

Who says you have to be restricted to TV units for your living room space? Using a sideboard or buffet as a stylish substitute is a fantastic out-of-the-box option, especially if you can’t find any TV units that tickle your fancy. Sideboards and buffets offer a range of different dimensions, as well as additional storage and display options. If you select a lower-lying sideboard or buffet, it can give you the space and freedom to create a display with varying heights. 

sideboard as tv unit

A splash of green

Offset the tech-heavy vibes of your TV with a splash of nature — we’re talking plants! Turning your TV unit into a lush oasis will add a sense of calm and colour to your living space. You can experiment with plants of different heights and textures to create points of visual interest without distracting from the TV. Snake plants, spider plants, rubber plants, peace lilies and ferns all do well indoors, not to mention they’ll help purify the air in your living space.

Make it moody

Going for a soft, moody vibe for your TV unit decor can help to offset the harsh lines and brightness of the actual television. Items with rounded edges like bowls, vases and candles make perfect decorations for TV units — play with muted colour schemes and natural textures to add an even more down-to-earth feel to the space. A table lamp is also an excellent option for creating atmosphere and showcasing the softness of your decor. 

entertainment unit decor ideas

Play with texture

If you’ve opted to keep your TV free-standing on your TV unit, embracing texture and layers will make the decor pop. Adorning the wall behind the TV with tactile elements and contrasting shapes helps break up the empty space — think clocks, wall hangings, art or maybe even wallpaper for an extra accent. Choosing a colour scheme and carrying that through to your TV unit decor will tie it all together — pick up some matching vases, glassware, books or candles to create a calming tableau. 

We all love rugs for their capability to simply change a room's look and feel. Here at LivingStyles, we have compiled some of our pro tips on how to best layer rugs within your own home to optimize on styling. Bring interest to your interior by merely just layering different textures, colours and sizes through rugs

Let's talk about layouts. Rug layering works a treat when the sizes are different. Use a more cumbersome rug with a smaller one on top for a dramatic effect. We love placing a neutral larger rug (plainer the better) on the bottom, then teaming this up with your more colourful or bolder patterned rug layer for the top. The top rug is where you can bring out your statement, a unique piece. Let the top rug shine!

You can use two rugs that are the same in size but we suggest not laying them on top of another in a centered fashion. Slightly overlap the rug edges to give a unique layout and cover a little more floor space.

Found a rug that is the perfect colour and texture and you've absolutely fallen in love with it only to find it isn't big enough for the space intended? Never fear! Layering allows you to still use that rug so go ahead and still make the purchase. The secret to make this still work is to lay a larger, unassuming rug on the bottom layer. This will make that loved rug pop on top. Problem solved.

A general sizing rule when layering is to keep your top rug 60 -180cm smaller in each direction than your bottom rug when having both centered, but this all does depend on the size of your space of course and any other pieces you may have in it. The smaller the base rug, the smaller the variation in size of the upper rug.

In the bedroom we have the flexibility to change things up. We would suggest having that smaller top rug sitting from halfway down the bed frame to just past the foot end of the bed. Visually you should be able to see the focus rug jutting out on each side and end.

Although we love you to really build on your own unique rug  layering, the layout should never affect the functionality of the room or furniture. Always work within the allocated floor area for an aesthetically pleasing and practical result. A perfect example is if you're wanting to layer the rugs under your dining table. Please allow there to be enough room for your dining chairs to glide in and out from under the dining table with no means to have to lift the legs  over the rugs edges when putting your chair back in after seating. Pile height is another key consideration. You do not want to introduce a tripping hazard. 

The art of layering rugs is an excellent way to accentuate an interior space and we hope you find this an enjoyable way to explore and experiment with your inner stylist.

There are few things as satisfying as seeing a perfectly curated bookshelf as the star of a beautiful living space. Evoking feelings of nostalgia, calm, intelligence and clarity, bookcases are so much more than just a practical place to store your reading material. When styled correctly, your bookshelf can act as an aesthetic masterpiece that anchors your design aesthetic. So, where do you begin? We’ve assembled our top tips on how to style a bookshelf like a pro.

Scale it substantially

Before you even think about what to stack your shelves with, it’s important to consider the placement of your bookcase (or bookcases). You want the size of the furniture to fit with the room where it lives — for example, two twin bookcases placed next to each other in your living room will create the grand feel of a built-in, while a tall and narrow standalone bookcase gives off a completely different vibe. You can also use your bookshelves to flank an item like your TV or fireplace to create a vignette and draw attention to a centre focal point.

bookcase design

Less is more

While the ample room on a bookshelf may seem like it’s begging to be filled, leaving some white space can help to break up the overall look and prevent it from becoming too busy. Select your favourite items and disperse them amongst clusters of books, being sure to leave some gaps to let the scene breathe

Pick cohesive colours

Colour blocking is an extremely effective tool in interior design, so it makes sense to employ this method in your bookshelf decor. You don’t necessarily need to colour-code your books, but it can help to pick one or two hues to use consistently throughout your accessories. This will be easier on the eyes than a scene of randomly jumbled colours — but if you like a bit of mismatched colour chaos, go for it! Grouping books by colour per shelf can also create a rather striking visual effect

bookshelf design ideas

Go for green

One of the easiest ways to add some life and colour to your bookcase is with an indoor plant or two. Not only do they have a stack of wellness benefits (cleaner air, anyone?), but they also provide an opportunity to get some varying textures into your decorating scheme. If you can't commit to real plants, artificial plants and flowers work too. There are so many different pots available, from cheap-and-cheerful to more artisanal styles. Mix up your plants and pots for a cute, clashing vibe or stick with one material throughout to keep things uniform — whatever works for your personal style.

Make it meaningful

Your bookshelf is a perfect place to display sentimental pieces you’ve collected over the years — artwork, trinkets, glassware, pottery and all of the other special things you’d like to showcase but aren’t sure where. You want to be able to smile when you look at your bookcase, so why not pepper it with things that are meaningful to you? 

bookcase styling

Dabble with depth

There are so many ways to play with height and depth in your bookcase layout. You can lay your books both flat and horizontally, or place some decorative pieces closer to the back and layer some in front. For example, you could lean a photo at the back of the shelf and pop a small object in front of it.  Things like large bowls and vases are great for adding height and texture to the look, or you can stack some books and then add an object on top. Varying heights and depths creates visual interest and draws the eye — it’s one of the most classic decorating techniques.

Balancing your books

You may have so many books that you struggle to fit anything else on the shelves of your bookcase — and that’s okay! There are ways to style your bookshelf using just books. You can visually break up the space by alternating how you display your books — some can stand up, some can lean and some can lie flat. You can also make room to put trinkets or objects in front of areas on the bookshelf with smaller books and extra depth — this helps to create some interest and can make the wall of books look less cluttered.

bookcase design ideas

Edit your masterpiece

When you’re finished curating your bookshelf, take a step back and cast a critical eye over it. Don’t be afraid to edit your end product when you see the whole picture put together. Certain configurations of objects can look different or busy from a distance, so removing some items can help to create a more balanced aesthetic.   

Have fun with it

At the end of the day, you’re the one who is going to be spending the most time looking at your bookshelf — so do what makes you happy. Whether you’re a matchy-matchy minimalist or live by a more-is-more philosophy, there is no right or wrong way to style a bookshelf. Stay true to your personal taste and decorate in a way that brings you joy!

Sideboards and buffets are the unsung heroes of the furniture world. Endlessly practical, these useful storage units also double as an opportunity to really showcase the personality of a space. The surface of your buffet or sideboard is a perfect place to get creative, as the right styling can really elevate your dining, living or entertaining space. Whether your dining room buffet needs some sprucing up or you have a sideboard that needs some love, we’ve assembled some chic decor ideas that are bound to suit your taste. 

Everything is illuminated

When it comes to creating enviable ambience in a dining room, lighting is absolutely everything. Using your buffet as an opportunity to showcase a lamp works well for two different reasons – the lamp creates visual interest as a piece of decor, but it also provides a softer pool of low light ideal for entertaining. With so many different types of lamps available, you can afford to get creative and you won’t have trouble finding something that complements your existing decor.  

rattan sideboard with lamp and dried flowers

Pretty and practical

Who says you have to sacrifice style for something to be useful? Get your buffet doing double duty! A glass buffet will act as a storage saviour whilst also showing off your best dining ware, not to mention the clear panels help to open up smaller spaces. If you don’t have cookery and crockery that you’re keen to showcase, a clear-panelled sideboard can also be a great option for displaying any trinkets or curios that you love but don’t have counter space for.

Mirror, mirror

One of the oldest tricks in the decorating book is using mirrors to open up a room. If you’re short on space, hanging a gorgeous mirror behind your buffet will make your dining or living room feel like it goes on for miles. Mirrors also have the advantage of brightening, so they are an excellent decorative choice for sideboards in darker rooms. 

sideboard decor

Art attack

Looking to make a statement, add a bit of drama or create a fierce focal point for your dining space? Hanging art directly above your buffet in the centre position and following it up with your dining table placed centrally in front makes for a truly dynamic look. You can keep it contrasting with a large piece of abstract art or opt for something in the same colour palette as your existing decorating scheme. As a general rule, it’s wise to opt for a piece that is about two-thirds the width of your buffet – those are some visually appealing proportions! 

Try it tiered

One of the best tricks for styling sideboard decor is to use items of varying heights to add some visual interest to your look. It’s not always about placing the largest item in the centre, either – playing with asymmetrical arrangements allows you to build height and a focal point wherever you choose. Take smaller items and weave them between taller or oversized statement pieces, like a pile of beautiful books or a unique sculpture

Layer upon layer

Want your buffet decor to look immaculately curated like something out of a lifestyle magazine? Don’t be afraid to let your layers overlap a little. Use larger anchor pieces like a vase or lamp, then select some foliage or twigs that can spread across your central focal point. This creates a cohesive and interactive look as opposed to something more stilted and flat. 

wooden sideboard decor

The rule of three

This tried-and-true decor technique is a classic for a reason. Dividing your buffet into three equal sections and treating them as separate focal points is a fantastic way to create a balanced yet aesthetically pleasing display. The rule of three keeps things from looking cluttered, leaving you with a curated effect that looks effortless. 

Glass is class

If you want your buffet to do double duty, use it to display your glassware. Treating your buffet or sideboard like a mini cocktail bar means that your best pieces are easily accessible for after-dinner drinks, while acting as a decorative piece when not in use. Pick up a couple of bottles of your favourite tipples and intersperse with your prettiest pieces of glassware, then finish with other attractive accoutrements

Feature presentation

To turn your buffet decor into a sophisticated showcase that blends form and function, select a sculptural piece to anchor your display. Things like oversized vases, lamps and, yes, sculptures are an ideal way to make a statement and create a unifying focal point. Build your buffet display around your feature piece and you can’t go wrong – look for items with similar tonal vibes or textures to really tie it all together.

Made for each other

Feeling a bit lost at the prospect of styling your buffet decor ideas? Create a tableau – put simply, it’s a group of objects that look like they belong together. A cluster of candles, a stack of your favourite oversized books, or a selection of beautiful greenery – you don’t have to fill the whole surface, just keep it simple and fresh.

sideboard decor ideas

There is nothing quite like a good meal to unify people – so it makes sense that your dining table should act as a hub of happiness within your home. It’s the place where you gather to share meals, celebrate over a feast, sit down to a quiet Sunday breakfast … the list goes on! Whether your dining table is perpetually in use or more of an ornamental outfit, making sure it reflects your personality is crucial. We’ve assembled some creative styling tips to up your dining table decor game – so every day will feel like an event.

dining table decor ideas

Going green

One of the quickest and easiest ways to add life to your dining table is with plants. While fresh flowers are gorgeous, not all of us have the budget to splash out on a new bouquet every other day. Opting for a lush, compact plant or even a self-foraged bunch of native greenery arranged in the middle of your table can bring colour and style in a classic way without being too bold. Not into the idea of maintenance? There are some very realistic-looking artificial plants and flowers available these days, so shake off the stigma and embrace the illusion.

Everything is illuminated

When it comes to lighting a room, you really can’t beat the ambiance of candles – and it turns out that they make quite good dining table decor! There are so many different options for candelabras and candle holders that you are bound to find a configuration that works for your specific space. Whether you want to use a set of mismatched candle holders to create a bohemian feel or go all-out with a luxurious candelabra that accommodates multiple flames, there are plenty of styling options to choose from. Plus. it gives you the excuse to dine by candlelight when the mood strikes – how romantic!

Down to earth

If you’re the sort of person who wants a dining table centrepiece that whispers rather than screams, it’s best to keep things earthy. Who says minimalists can’t enjoy dining table decor? Keep it simple with rustic textures, items with raw timber finishes, and oversized vibes to draw more attention to your pared-back space. Not into naturals? Opting for a monochromatic look is also in keeping with understated (but still very chic) aesthetics – something like a trio of ceramic vessels or vases in a shade that complements or matches your existing colour scheme. 

Serve it up

Are your kitchen cupboards stocked with stunning serving ware that only comes out when you’re entertaining? Make the most of what you already have by incorporating some of these pieces into your dining table decor. These pieces can stand alone as a visual point of difference, creating a mini sculpture-scape in the middle of your dining table. They are also thematically on point, as they play a key role in dining and entertaining. 

Mix and match it

Much like the art of decorating a coffee table, creating vignettes on your dining table can completely transform the look and feel of your space. Clustering your favourite pieces together to create a centrepiece is just as effective on a larger surface – think books, candlesticks, vases, and smaller plants like succulents. This also gives you the opportunity to play with colour, texture, and height – you can select items with matching tones or blend into hue of your table, or make a statement with some contrasting elements. Generally speaking, if you keep your items in a tight formation, they will look related and like they belong together.

The case for a vase

Vases are one of the most striking items you can use as dining table decor, with endless options to create the perfect centrepiece that suits your style – and who says you have to stop at just one? Select a handful of vases within the same tonal family that complements your existing dining room palette, but feel free to go rogue with sizes and shapes. If you go for a multiple-vase centrepiece, remember that yo don’t necessarily have to fill them all – plus, dried arrangements in neutral brown tones are a classic option that you can set and forget.

Feelin’ fruity

Fruit is one of nature’s most beautiful ornaments, so why not use it to decorate your dining table? If your household members are big consumers of fruit, you can kill two birds with one stone by creating tasteful displays in a fruit bowl on the dining room table. Citruses like orange and lemon provide a zesty pop, while bananas give off a glorious tropical vibe. You don’t necessarily have to heavily curate your fruit bowl either – just go with what’s in season and have fun with it. 

You do you

At the end of the day, these styling and decor tips are just suggestions to get you inspired. If none of these ideas speak to you, why not mix it up? Combine some of these elements together or leave your table totally bare – you will know best what works with your existing space and style. 

Never underestimate the power of outdoor lighting to illuminate and transform a space. Besides serving a practical function, outdoor lighting can double your kerb appeal and turn your backyard party into an ambient, memorable experience. From outdoor patio lighting ideas to outdoor wall lighting ideas and everything in between, here are our top 30 outdoor lighting ideas for you.

1- Candles

Drawing inspiration from the very beginnings of outdoor lighting, candles are traditional, accessible, and trustworthy when it comes to lighting your outdoor space. Perfect for creating that hygge feeling, just make sure the flames are away from any foliage!  

2- Pathway lights

There’s nothing worse than stumbling on your way in and out of a home. Help guide the way with pathway lights that will illuminate the space and look good. You can choose from various fittings and designs to find the perfect pathway lighting that suits you. 

3- Colourful lighting

Colourful lighting is fun, versatile lighting for any outdoor space. Colourful lighting usually comes with an adjustable setting, so you can change your lighting to suit the mood. 

4- Ornamental lighting

One of the newer trends in outdoor lighting is incorporating an ornamental feature or novelty lamp. Doubling as an ornament for your garden and a lighting solution, it’s a perfect idea if you love all things kitsch. 

5- Bollard lights

The ideal outdoor lighting solution, no matter the style or size of a space, bollard lights are easy to install and can be placed along paths or anywhere in the garden to illuminate your favourite plants and flowers. 

6- Lanterns

The original outdoor lighting solution, lanterns create the perfect soft glow for that outdoor ambience. Their traditional appeal also makes them timeless and suitable for all types of outdoor spaces. 

7- Festoon lighting

Festoon lighting has always been a popular choice for gardens. Easy to hang wherever you please, whether over fences or amongst trees, festoon lights are subtle and trendy, effortlessly adding ambience to your garden. 

8- Bulbs

Get creative with your outdoor lighting by using light bulbs. Gather large bulbs, vintage bulbs, or even mix-matched bulbs and decorate your garden with them. The finished look will be fun and quirky. 

9- Light-up plant pots

Get your hands on planters with built-in LED lighting. Not only do they light up the surrounding area, but they also illuminate and draw attention to your plants, combining feature lighting with practical solutions. 

10- Fairy lights

Fairy lights are not only reserved for Christmas time but are one of the easiest ways to add light and ambience to your outdoor space. Easy to find in most stores, you can drape or weave fairy lights in trees, along walls, or around a pergola—the options are endless! 

outdoor lighting

11- Light-up sculptures

Like light-up plant pots, this lighting solution is another practical option that doubles as an artistic statement piece or feature. 

12- Layering

The best thing about an outdoor area is the larger sense of space available for you to get creative. That is why layering works so well. By using an assortment of lights at different places in your garden, you can add texture and excitement without appearing overbearing.

13- Tea lights

Another classic way to light up an outdoor living space and add ambience is with tea lights. Place them on surfaces or pop them in jars and hang them from trees for a soft, romantic touch. 

14- Front door pendants

First impressions count, so adding some pendant lighting to your front door is a beautiful, stylish way to illuminate your main entryway and welcome guests. 

15- Uplights

For a more subtle outdoor lighting solution, uplights are understated and provide a soft glow effect. Uplights are perfect for highlighting your flowerbed, placing beneath potted trees, or for built-in benches.

16- Beam lighting

For something a bit more permanent, beam lighting is a smart way to light an outdoor area or table with a chic, industrial edge. 

 17- Hanging lights

If you have a pergola or a covered outdoor area, hanging lights from the roof is a trendy, easy way to light the space. You can hang lights at different heights for an edgy look.

18- Overhead deck lights

Installing overhead deck lights is another way to light up an outdoor space if you’re not a fan of hanging lights. They are so subtle you won’t notice them during the day but provide just the right amount of light during the night. 

19- Tree lighting

Trees should be celebrated for being perhaps one of the best accessories for outdoor lighting! Use trees to light your outdoor area by hanging fairy lights, lanterns, or whatever light takes your fancy amongst its branches. Use solar power lights for minimal effort and the perfect soft glow. 

20- Wall lights

Adding wall lights to the outdoor walls of your home is a practical lighting solution. Take advantage of a range of different methods and designs to match your style and elevate your space.

21- Fitted downlighting

Fitted downlighting on outdoor ceilings is a great solution for providing soft lighting and enhancing the exterior design aesthetic of a home by illuminating textural qualities such as brick detailing.

22- Floor lamps

Traditionally reserved for the indoors, bringing indoor floor lamps outside will add extra lighting to your outdoor space. Just ensure the lamp is in a covered area!

23- Rope lights

Rope lights come in all colours and are another easy way to add light to your outdoor area. You can add rope lights to fences, trees, or porches, and use them along landscape edging.  

24- Integrated lighting

Integrate lighting into furniture that is already there for a practical outdoor lighting solution. Use small LED lights to wrap around permanent fixtures like outdoor couches and benches. 

25- Landscape spotlights

If you love your garden and want to show it off, garden spotlights are an effective way to highlight the very best your green space has to offer. 

26- Table lamps

Easily add light to your outdoor table setting by placing a lamp or two on the table. Great outdoor lamps include small glass lamps such as mosaic glass lamps. 

27- Floodlights

When you need outdoor lighting to illuminate a big space, floodlights are the perfect option. They are extremely efficient and look great! 

28 Pendant clusters

Mix things up and install a pendant cluster in your outdoor space. They can be fitted on roofing and will effortlessly elevate your decor. 

29- Dome lights

There are plenty of dome lights being sold in stores that perfectly complement any outdoor space. Reminiscent of a moon, they create a mystical, zen-like atmosphere

30- Sensor lighting

Essential for navigating the outdoors once the sun goes down, sensor lighting is a practical and energy-saving way to light pathways, front entrances, and backyards.  

Side tables are not to be underestimated, for they have plenty of potential to add personality and style to your home. Gone are the days of simple side tables that are just a place to put all that random stuff — say hello to the side table as a design feature in itself that deserves to be celebrated! With so much time spent going unnoticed, it’s no surprise that many of us don't know where to start when it comes to side table décor. Luckily, we’re here to provide some much-needed inspiration on how to spice up your side table with these 8 side table décor ideas.

side table decor ideas

1. Think about colour

Side table décor can help create cohesion in any room through the choice of colour. Choose a side table that’s tones and texture complement the room, and decorate it with items that match the rest of your home's colour scheme. Whilst a continuous tonal palette is key for a cohesive home, remember — don’t be afraid to add a pop of accent colour here and there.

2. Pick a theme

Whether it be luxe, rustic, romantic or boho, picking a theme when decorating a side table is essential for keeping cohesion in your home. Choose décor that reflects the overall vibe and stylistic choices you have going on throughout the rest of your home — side tables have the potential to help accentuate and complement other, bolder design choices.

3. Add a touch of greenery

Side tables are the perfect spot for your plants and flowers. A bit of greenery throughout the home goes a long way in adding a nice organic touch and a fresh feel. We recommend an easy-to-maintain plant such as a hardy sculptural succulent like a string of pearls. Flowers also look perfect on a side table and help inject that extra warm, homey feeling. Just make sure it's one or the other — flowers and a plant on one side table is definitely a bit over the top!

side table decor

4. Space for scents

Do you have an endless collection of candles and nowhere to put them? Well, candles are what side tables were born for! Place a candle on a side table to add a luxurious feel to your home, as well as a delicious scent that suits the mood of your space. 

5. Light it up

Not only extremely functional but also a beautiful design feature, adding a lamp to a side table is a match made in heaven! Add a light that corresponds with the design of the space and use it as an anchor point for the rest of the side table décor. If you choose a fairly big lamp, you won’t need much else, if anything. This makes adding a lamp a go-to, simple side table décor idea.

6. Make use of all those accessories

Little bits and bobs we love seem to accumulate over the years, and it is often hard to find somewhere to put them. Whether it’s that vase you collected on your travels or a handmade ceramic ornament, they deserve to see the light! Adding these sentimental pieces to your side table is the ideal way to show them off while injecting some personality into your home. 

side table decor

7. Get arty

Gone are the days of art only hanging on the walls — leaning your art against walls or upon side tables is now a huge design trend. Showcase your favourite art and jazz up a side table simultaneously! Small pieces work best, but larger ones can also work as a stand-alone feature on a bigger-sized side table. 

8. Stack some books

Books are another one of those things we seem to have an endless supply of with nowhere to put them! Rather than overflowing the bookshelf, pile a few of your prettier books on a side table and make them a design feature. Stacked books are also great for layering with other décor items.

The sky is the limit when it comes to decorating your side tables. Always remember that less is more, and side tables can easily spice up any place, so it’s time to give them the attention they deserve! 

The hallway is the entry into your home, so making the right impression and one that reflects your style is vital. The key to developing an impressive hallway is creating space and ensuring it's functional whilst also looking the part. Just because a hallway may be small doesn't mean it lacks the potential to be a standout feature in your home. If you're stuck for inspiration, these hallway ideas are bound to help you create the perfect portal to your precious home. 

1- Add a console

Perhaps the most long-standing hallway feature is the humble console. Adding a small or narrow console is a space-efficient storage solution and  design feature. For hallway table décor ideas, lean art or add lamps, plants, or ornaments. 

2- Pendant lighting

One easy and simple way to brighten up a hallway, literally, is with lighting. Adding a single statement pendant light in your hallway not only illuminates the space but can also provide that 'wow' factor as soon as you step into the home. 

3- Gallery wall

Looking for somewhere to hang your art? The hallway may be the answer! Not only a way to showcase your favourite pieces of art, creating a gallery wall in your hallway also adds just the right amount of excitement without overwhelming the space.

4- Floating shelves

Functional and aesthetically pleasing, floating shelves may be the hero your hallway needs. If you have a wider hallway and need somewhere to keep your stuff, adding floating shelves won't take up any floor space, will help keep things organised, and adds depth to the space. 

5- Accessories

Just because your hallway may be small doesn't mean you can't add accessories! Spruce up the space with baskets that double as storage, little knick knacks, or even a house plant. These small contributions will help bring that extra life hallways yearn for. 

6- Mirrors

The oldest trick on the book for creating space, mirrors are ideal for narrow hallways and also help keep things trendy. Add a hanging mirror or lean one against a console to create a sleek feel in your entryway. They are also great for checking yourself out as you walk out the door! 

7- Bench

A small, simple bench may be the answer to your storage solution dreams, adding a convenient place to put on your shoes or drop your bag without taking up too much space. Choosing a bench that complements your style will also immediately inject some personality into the hallway. 

8- Picture ledge

An ingenious combination of a gallery wall and floating shelves, a picture ledge means you can display your favourite photos and art, as well as all the other bits and bobs with nowhere else to go that still deserve to see the light of day. It also provides great options for storage.

9- Wallpaper

Bare walls are begging for wallpaper—a simple, easy way to zhuzh up a space. Use bold wallpaper with geometric, striped, or botanical patterns to immediately add life to the hallway, or just roll with whatever suits your personal taste. If your style leans towards something more subtle, we guarantee it will still add some much-needed spice to your hallway. 

10- Bookshelf nook

If you're lucky enough to be blessed with a hallway with nooks and crannies, transforming one of these into a bookshelf is a charming storage solution that effortlessly adds personality to the space. 

11- Hooks

Need somewhere to hang your bags, coats, and hats? Your hallway provides the perfect spot whilst also enabling you to create a trendy feature that complements your style. Using floating hooks or a hook rack is functional and will look great holding your cute straw hat and best-looking coat. 

12- Add colour

Never underestimate the power a pop of colour can bring to a space. The same goes for hallways—adding a feature, whether it be bold wall colour, ceiling colour, or painted door, will transform the space from ordinary to something memorable and exciting.

13- Rugs

The rug has remained one of the most ingenious and common décor entryway ideas for generations. Laying down a runner will define the hallway space while adding character and a touch of your style.

14- Tiles

Tiles are a safe and easy way to add personality and open up the space. Choose tiles that complement the rest of your home, and select bold patterns if you're looking to really liven up the traditional stale hallway stereotype. 

15- Make use of what's already there

Before you go on a hallway décor rampage, get creative with the features that you already have access to. Just like the bookcase nook, make use of any ledges, finishes, light fixtures, or wallpapers. Adding a few simple touches can easily inject your style and some extra pizazz.


Choosing coffee table décor can be an exciting but daunting task. There are so many things to consider, like how to work with the shape of your table, how much surface area you have to play with, your existing style choices — the list goes on! No matter what you’re working with, we’ve rounded up some coffee table décor ideas that marry aesthetics with functionality.

Wondering how to style a coffee table set-up worthy of a magazine photoshoot? Read on. 

Team to the theme

While styling your coffee table is a great opportunity to get creative, you shouldn’t totally abandon any existing themes you have going on in your living space. Take into account colour schemes and general vibes that you have already curated, then use these as inspiration to get started.  

The long and short of it

When collating your coffee table décor ideas, one key thing to consider is the visual journey that your objects will showcase. Playing with objects of different heights and textures can create a dynamic landscape without looking too busy.

Keep your centrepiece tall, then build around it with items like candles, chunky book stacks, and decent-sized trinkets. If you have smaller items you would like to showcase, opting for a tray to keep them neat and contained is a good option. 

Going green

To say indoor plants are having a moment would be doing them a disservice. Lush greenery truly never goes out of style, but there’s no denying that the pandemic has seen a surge in popularity for home horticulture. Opting for a living centrepiece can bring colour and life to your coffee table décor.

If you’re working with a smaller surface area, hardy plants like succulents and small cacti can be an eye-catching but low-maintenance option that won’t take up too much space. Got a bit of room to play with? Go for bigger (but still manageable) options like spider plants, pothos plants, or ZZ plants. 

Balance

Balance is important with all coffee table decorating ideas. A handy tip is to mentally section your surface so  you can compartmentalise your styling. Choose one central feature like a plant, stack of books, or sculpture to ground your display, then get to work on creating harmonious arrangements within your sections.

Your aim should be for each section to carry equal visual weight in terms of size and tone – from there, the choice of items is up to you! Think crystals, candles, vases, or smaller books and sculptures.

Packed with personality

As with all interior styling, what matters most is that you are happy with the outcome – which is why it is crucial to inject some of your own personality. Selecting sentimental pieces like souvenirs from a favourite holiday, big glossy books that highlight your interests, and treasured pieces from friends and family can help to create a space that is uniquely yours.

Just remember that you don’t have to make it a shrine to memories – clutter isn’t a good look, so swap out pieces seasonally to keep things fresh. 

Making shapes

The shape of your coffee table can affect your styling choices. While there are no hard and fast rules, we’ve assembled some quick tips to keep in mind for both curved and angular surfaces

How to style a round coffee table

  • . Go for the rule of three – three large objects of differing heights is a simple and dynamic look.
  • . Trays can look awkward on round coffee tables. If you do go down that road, make sure you opt for a round tray.
  • . Balance is key – keep your objects clustered in the centre of the table.

How to style a rectangular coffee table 

  • . The rule of three can work for rectangular tables, too – section your space lengthways but don’t feel like the compartments must be equal.
  • . Keep your feature piece to the middle section.
  • . Factor in depth of field – have some objects closer to the front of the table and others further back.

How to style a square coffee table

  • . There are a couple of sectioning options for square tables – go for quadrants or a rough triangle shape.
  • . Using a rectangular tray in one of your sections keeps with the angular theme.
  • . Prefer a bit more contrast? Pop a decorative round bowl in one of your sections.

How to style an oval coffee table 

  • . For an oval table, you can opt for roughly the same styling principles as a circular table or venture into more formal territory.
  • . Not feeling the rule of three? Pick a major moment as your centrepiece, then craft two smaller scenes of a similar height on either side.

You do you

At the end of the day, your coffee table décor should be a reflection of you and your space. If you have a coffee table that you love and a sense of personal taste, you can’t go wrong. Play around with different arrangements and concepts – you have the freedom to change and tinker as often as you want. Happy decorating!