So you’ve painted the walls, brought in the furniture and other larger pieces, now it’s time to accessorize. This is where your unique personal stamp makes the room different from any other. It’s time to bring out those well-loved collectible dolls, teapots and other collectible home accents that you have been saving for last.

Incorporate your accent color into the space through accessories collected over time. These pieces, if you’ve done your homework right, are the final touches that bring together the colors, style and ambience that this decorating project has brought together.

This is where the fun starts: beautiful blue pottery, antique linens, ceramic plates, and artprints, can all tie the look together in a unique way that reflects the owner’s personality.

Use accent pieces that reinforce the decorating theme you have selected – exquisite seashells for a cottage by the sea, a beautiful oriental armoire for an Asian theme, hand-turned earthenware for a Tuscan decor or a richly-colored Moroccan area rug. Collectible dolls on a bookshelf, or draped softly on an armchair can give the space that casual, lived-in look.

Use accessories sparingly to avoid a cluttered look. Having many pieces to admire makes it difficult to appreciate each one individually. Position each piece to best advantage, and let each piece shine in its own place of honor.

There will be great after-dinner stories to share with guests about how each well-loved piece found its way into your home.