Home accessories are like jewellery – they add that special flair. Delhi-based interior designer Preeti Knowles says, “William Morris’s quote comes to mind: Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful. So always choose elements that you love rather than just blindly follow trends, and make sure they complement your home design.” Here are her insightful tips on taming the home-accessorising beast.

There’s no real formula for accessorising “but I feel it’s better to go for less rather than more, so that each piece can stand out on its own and the room doesn’t look too crowded,” Knowles says.

For the furniture

A centre, side or coffee table in itself can be an accessory. “I personally have used a large solid wood plank as a coffee table in my home,” Knowles says. While doing up the tabletop, apart from using glass platters and coffee-table books, Knowles suggests ceramic curios. “Pick up pottery pieces too – these look great on the coffee table. Your accessories can tell stories of your visits around the world; these are little memories of your adventures.”

For the floor

While accessorising your living room, be mindful of empty floor space. “Ceramic pots look great on the floor. Indoor plants are popular for improving air quality and bringing in some colour. In the ’70s, these were very fashionable; one saw lots of bonsais, tall palm plants and bamboos in the living room – this trend is coming back. Wood carvings or stone sculptures look nice as well. Just light them from the base so that the piece immediately catches attention,” Knowles says.

For the walls

“Similar-looking accessories or a cluster of frames in different shapes made of brass trims look good next to an empty stretch of wall or off centre,” Knowles says. She also recommends a striking wall colour that in itself can make a statement. “Dark or paler shades create a moody interior. Go in for pale pink or grey – these colours are very fashionable right now,” Knowles says.

Choose art that resonates with you and moves you. “I’ve never been one who picks pieces just because it’s done by a famous artist. I feel art should be something that makes you feel restful. You can also choose eye-catching paintings on a subject matter you are passionate about,” Knowles shares.

For the bedroom

“Since this is a quiet, comfortable space, don’t over-crowd it. Place a few of your choicest collections here and keep the mood cosy and light.”

For the powder room

“I think some plush and soft towels neatly rolled up in an open cupboard, a soap dispenser made of stone, bathroom plants and a brightly coloured or mother-of-pearl counter would look really nice in a powder room. Also, pebbles placed under the basin or close to the window look lovely,” Knowles suggests. he also says that wicker baskets and candles can create a soothing and relaxing ambience: “After all, this is a restroom open to guests; it should look welcoming.”

For the staircase

A pretty pendant or a chandelier can illuminate the place and inject life into it. “Black-and-white family photos or long landscape shots look smart along the staircase. Clusters of mirrors of various shapes or wood carvings, too, catch the eye,” Knowles says.

For the outdoors

There are outdoor furniture options galore – from natural bamboo or jute to bright plastic or metal. If you have a covered or a shaded terrace, Knowles recommends wooden benches and tables. “I know a lot of people like to make this place look pristine but the natural look of wood is unbeatable.” To further accessorise this space, “you can also place a cluster or a row of the same type of plants that have a sculptural quality to them, like big palm plants or Mother-in-law’s Tongue (Sansevieria trifasciata or snake plant),” Knowles says.