The art of decorating with pillows

Diana Fox

Decorating is more than just eye appeal. It’s about style, comfort, beauty, warmth, memories and inspiration. Consider what’s important to you and your family and then find a way to make your home inviting — in your own way — in your own expression — in your own style.

A fresh, creative and inexpensive approach to decorating is with the use of pillows — lots and lots of pillows! Pillows come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, colors and fabrics, textures and patterns. Pillows are a powerful decorating tool that can instantly enliven a room, create a stylish look or offer the perfect finishing touch.

Using pillows to decorate your home will brighten and soften the space. If you have a sofa or a chair that’s looking a little worn, adding attractive accent pillows can give the piece a new appearance, some added texture and a splash of color. If you love beautiful bed pillows, stack or layer them two or three deep against the headboard. Decorative shams, pretty pillowcases and coordinating accent pillows are an impressive part of an enticing bed design and create a cozy, relaxed atmosphere.

Scatter oversized pillows around the fireplace or coffee table for comfy extra seating. Mix and match several decorative pillows in a window seat for an inviting atmosphere or for a fun, unexpected surprise set small accessory pillows in dining room chairs.

Don’t be afraid to mix various styles, shapes or sizes of pillows… they can all work together. Needlepoint, fabric, tapestry, silkscreen and monogram — some with ornate fringe, braid, buttons and tassels, some without — some in vintage, aged fabrics and some in crisp, fresh cottons — some in sophisticated, delicate silk and some in rich, durable ultra suede. With the mixture of so many options, pillows create artful centerpieces to spice up any room with interest and personality.

Anything goes when it comes to selecting fabrics. You can buy beautiful decorative pillows in a myriad of stores and boutiques or get creative and make your own. Check designer fabric stores for the latest fashion colors, trends and patterns or bring special meaning to your space by converting your favorite memories into pillows — a child’s baby blanket, a faded sundress, a panel from grandma’s velvet draperies, an antique tablecloth, a hand-me-down patchwork quilt or a handsome, wool tweed blazer.

There’s magic in mixing contrasting shapes, appealing colors and inspired patterns. It’s quick, attractive and fun. Decorate with pillows!!

Diana specializes in interior arrangement, room design makeover, color consultation and relocating services. She has been assisting clients since 1986 and can be reached by phone at (951) 202-7859, e-mail at diana@foxinteriors.biz or on the Web at www.foxinteriors.biz.