decorating

Old jars of vintage marbles

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The new screened back porch is sophisticated yet casual, outfitted in organic materials and plush seating. Vine chandeliers from Scott Antique Markets in Atlanta are unique statement pieces.

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Take advantage of a purely functional piece — like a hamper — and turn it into another excuse to incorporate traditional elements into a room. Of course, it's ideal if you've picked up a few authentic pieces, but if you're not really a world traveler, these African Prayer Hampers still provide a wonderful, worldly touch. More ideas:Bold Moroccan Style for Today's InteriorsEast Meets West: Adding Asian Design to a Modern Home9 Elements of Asian Style

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1. Add glitz with mirrors. A fancy mirror — think gilt-framed or sunburst-shaped — instantly elevates a space into something special. The rest of your furniture can be quite casual, but with a posh mirror, your room will still feel elegant.

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7. Use antique textiles in fresh ways. Rather than choosing a priceless antique rug in perfect condition (and then stressing about anyone’s walking on it) why not snag an imperfect rug at a discount and have it transformed into a unique piece of furniture? Rugs and other vintage or antique textiles can make surprisingly sturdy upholstery fabrics for ottomans and armchairs, and they are bound to be conversation starters as well.

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8. Embrace hooks and baskets. A chic home does not have clutter strewn about. One easy (and chic) solution is to hang French market baskets on hooks in various places. Use them for towels, laundry, stray toys, magazines — anything that frequently causes clutter issues. . Baskets on hooks

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Make a powerful statement in the entryway. Try putting a grouping like this in a hallway or nook that is particularly difficult to fill. A pair of ginger jars like the one on the right side of the table is one of my favorite things to give for a wedding. The sweet pea vines symbolize "forever" and "many children," while the main decoration is a shuang xi character which is the symbol for "wedded bliss." It's a great way to think outside the registry. Blue and white in our entry

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Add symmetry to a room with a pair of blue-and-white urns. Filling porcelain with something fresh helps make the look applicable to all seasons and all holidays. I would put greenery or flowers in these to really make a statement. The pillow on the sofa

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Great lamps

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Mantle

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Use of objects

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Love the whole look especially the large column used as sculpture

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Use of 2 mirrors and old books

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color combinations and use of different textures in the upholstery

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slip covers for chairs

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