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We love Target and HomeGoods just as much as the next person, but it’s funny how just a handful of visits can result in a home that sort of looks like everyone else’s. That’s because you’re not the only one killing time in the accessories aisles at big-box stores. It’s best to give your decor budget a bit more thought—and you don’t even have to spend a lot to curate a space dotted with conversation pieces.
We asked five pro interior stylists for some insight on the home accessories they’re setting aside to make room for something a bit more refreshing.
Instead of: Decorative book sets
Try: A to-be-read pile
Books should be a reflection of the person who lives in the space. —Brittany Albert
Instead of: Beaded strands
Try: Small, curated collections
I think strings of beads have been overdone. I would fill catchalls with collected things like beach rocks or maybe Polaroids of friends and family. —Merisa Libbey
Instead of: Tons of throws
Try: Punchy cushions
I personally think cascading a throw over a sofa is overplayed; it’s very Styling 101. I prefer interesting decorative pillows instead. Sometimes less is more. —Pablo Olguin
Instead of: Wiggly decor
Try: Timeless silhouettes
I’m not a fan of the brightly colored, postmodern wavy decor I’ve been seeing. Instead, I’d like to see more timeless pieces made of quality materials of substance. Opame Collective has fantastic accessories on the high end, and Tine K Home does the trick on a budget. —Scott Horne
Instead of: Accent links
Try: Something with a story
Chains were cool way back when you hardly saw one—when they were made by artisans in interesting scales. Then everyone did it and they were everywhere in every possible material (wood, marble, cork, brass). If you have a good one, put it away for now. Replace it with a vintage tray, a cool box, or an object that has history—maybe a ceramic piece with a great shape or something with a nice patina. —Mariana Marcki
