Compact Sketchbook of Accessories

The final effect of any room scheme can often be spoiled by adding the wrong accessories, or perhaps, too few or too many. Trying to get the balance just right, even for an interior designer can be difficult. In this sketchbook of home accessories, Wendy Baker has added some room sets with and without accessories to illustrate, what

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When you walk into some rooms they feel almost magical. The lighting is right, the furniture comfortable, the rugs soft underfoot, the curtains are not overpowering and the accessories are just there, not contrived in anyway they look as if they almost grew there, do you know what I mean? Well, it's not as easy as it seems getting the balance right does not just happen by "plonking down" a lamp or a vase of flowers and hoping it works or by adding so much clutter that you feel claustrophobic every time you walk into the room. It's quite an art! You can't teach someone how to accessorise say, a photo shoot or a room set or even themselves for that matter. They do have to have a little bit of style! Remember when you are accessorising an office pick and choose the accessories carefully. You do not need frilly cushions, with matching table covers keep it simple, not clinical, but comfortable to work in without the bits and bobs! I am a great believer in using trimmings wherever possible a simple Russian braid or a tassel here and there can compliment a fabric, it adds a point of interest to even a plain cushion but like anything else don't over do it. There are plenty of examples of where and when to use trimmings on your soft furnishing and accessories in this sketchbook. I have included various different ideas for sofa and chair covers that I have used in some of my design projects which I hope you will find interesting, and as well as the usual cushions (what would we do without them?) and table covers I have added some table settings and bed linen from my own home in the South of France.