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I love the magic of live theatre.
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With paint, costumes and the actor's words you can create a world that can entertain or challenge the audience. My husband and I serve on the board of directors for our community theatre and enjoy being a part of this process.
Recently our theatre, (Theatre Matthews) presented the hilarious "Steel Magnolias." In the play, one of the characters declares "The only difference between us and the animals is our ability to accessorize." What a great statement that really applies to decorating! The problem is we sometimes feel like we don't have the ability to accessorize correctly.
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Accessories In A Bath
Curing The Problem
I want you to stand in the doorway of a room that needs a makeover. Does the room feel cluttered? Are there great items but no connection between them? Does everything seem to be the same size and just too small for the room?
First, take all the objects and pictures out of the room. Spread them out on a table in another room so that you can "shop" for what you need later. Don't hesitate to pull items from other rooms or storage.
A Cleared Room
Is Like A Waiting Canvas
Look at your room and note the surfaces that will benefit from decorative objects. The fireplace mantle, end tables, bookshelves and empty corners are all candidates. Look over your table and find items that will make a great background.
Large platters, vases for flowers or plants, framed art and big sculptural pieces will make great backdrops for the story you will tell. Plate stands and easels will hold the platters and art in an upright position so have several on hand before you start this project.
Next group items according to a theme. This could be by color (all the same or complementary tones), subject matter (example:cats) or common material (example: antique silver).
Don't display your entire collection. Choose your favorite pieces and put the rest into storage to be rotated with the seasons.
Here's The Goal
Our goal is to show off items without overwhelming the viewer's eye.
Your eye isn't distracted by the stacked books, but at the same time they make an interesting platform for the object. Decorative boxes and small upside down baskets can also be used. Use an odd number of items (1, 3 or 5) for the most pleasing arrangement.
Plants in interesting containers are all you need on some surfaces. Consider the scale of the area. You don't want the plant to overwhelm it nor do you want it to feel lost and lonely. If you are using several plants in the room vary the leaf shapes and colors.
In the upcoming weeks I will help you with hanging art on the walls and using pillows and other textiles to complete your room. In the meantime, I hopy you have a wonderful week!
To Delightful Decorating,
- Melisa
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