Styling is an essential step in completing your interior decorating project. While furnishings provide function to a space (in addition to comfort and beauty), accessories and decorative items add visual interest and texture, and are the finishing touches that add personality.
What are Some Commonly Used Styling Elements?
Styling items are usually selected based on the purpose and functionality of the room. This can include adding comfort and texture with pillows and blankets or functionality with decorative storage boxes and baskets. Some styling elements are simply added for their beauty or ability to start a conversation, like wall art, sculptures and small decorative objects. We often include personal items of our clients, like family photos, memorabilia, and travel souvenirs.
I always love incorporating natural elements into my designs, including potted plants and floral arrangements, to bring the beauty of the outdoors in. While they’re not just beautiful, plants help to improve air quality, and both real and fake plants have been shown to reduce stress levels, promoting overall health and well-being.
How Much Should I Budget for Accessories?
Styling and accessorizing your home does not need to be expensive. When working on a decorating project, I usually assume 5-15% of the overall room investment will be used for styling. Some rooms, like kitchens and bathrooms, require fewer accessories, while others, like living rooms, may require more. If my clients already have accessories they would like to incorporate in their design, the styling budget can be reduced.
The Kathleen Casey Design Styling Process
We always present and finalize all of the major elements of your design in advance for your approval. However, smaller styling items often need to be seen in the finished space to know whether or not they genuinely work.
When creating your design, if there are any styling elements I believe are essential, I include them in your presentation to ensure you also love them before purchasing. For any remaining small accessories, I include a “Styling & Accessories Retainer” in your quote for each room. This is an agreed-upon budget that I will use to purchase what I believe are the best accessories and finishing touches for your space.
Styling Frequently Asked Questions
Can I hire Kathleen Casey Design for styling on it’s own?
Of course! We are happy to help with projects of all sizes, including styling your already furnished spaces. Please fill out the form on our Contact Page, and we will reach out to discuss this further.
Do I get to approve all styling elements in advance?
While I try to include all significant styling elements in your design so they can be approved in advance, you will not approve all elements used in your final styling beforehand. I’ve found this process allows more flexibility to see how things look in the finished space and more time to curate the perfect pieces for you while we wait for your furnishings to arrive. If you are uncomfortable with small surprises, just let me know, and we can discuss alternative options.
Where do you purchase Styling Items?
I usually find these from my small styling inventory or local retail stores. When appropriate for the design, I also find unique accessories at antique markets and fairs.
Do I need to keep everything? What if I don’t love something you selected?
While I select everything with you in mind if I do include something in the styling that you do not love, you always have the flexibility to reject it and receive a refund. I will always obtain your approval before purchasing anything that cannot be returned or added to my internal inventory.
What if I have accessories I love already? Can these be incorporated?
Of course! I love incorporating personal items in your complete space. If you already have accessories you would like me to use in your styling, just let me know in advance so I know what I’m working with. I can supplement these with items purchased with your styling retainer.
Can I choose to skip styling altogether?
Absolutely. While I genuinely believe that styling helps bring your completed design together, it is not a requirement. Please note that if we photograph your project, I will still bring accessories in for the photoshoot day.
