One Sofa, Three Looks

Contemporary decor is all about simplicity and drama.

CONTEMPORARY COOL

The key to contemporary?

Simplicity and drama. Highlight a focal point and keep clutter to a minimum. A focal point can be a large piece of artwork, a sofa, an area rug, or even a floral arrangement for color.

Make sure the focal point is in clear sight. There should be only one focus in the room, and it should dominate the room. Anchor it.

Opt for furniture with clean lines, angular arms and backs, and exposed legs.

Add warmth with natural materials, like cotton, leather and wood. A leather ottoman makes a stylish alternative to a coffee table - leather is soft and luxurious, yet it’s almost impossible to wear out.

Create your contemporary floor plan online with Room Planner, Sheely’s virtual interior designer.

Spice up your home with a little Asian inspiration.

ASIAN EXOTIC

Bring the Far East a little closer to home!

In Asian décor, the interest is found in blocks of color and the variety of textures, such as in vibrant, satin throw pillows and other accessories.

For a coffee table, consider a large, square, glass-topped table with a Chinese-inspired base. The wood tones are dark with a high-gloss finish for a sophisticated look.

Red, an energizing color, is a striking accent.

Spice it up - place an Asian vase or display plate anywhere for a vivid dash of style and color. Accessories are bright and highly stylized, with intricate designs or lacquered finishes. Exotic flowers and greenery against a decorative screen enliven the corners of a room.

Traditional decor is elegant and timeless.

TRADITIONAL ELEGANCE

Traditional décor is elegant and timeless, ideal for adult living areas and formal entertaining.

Select furniture with highly polished dark wood, such as mahogany, oak and cherry. Look for carved legs and an ornate details.

Upholstery should have soft tailoring and heritage patterns. The traditional look uses rich fabrics - velvets, tapestries and jacquard, a woven pattern fabric known for its texture and durability.

Finally, gold, silver and glass accents - as in the lamps and ornate frame above the sofa - add elegance.

For more decorating ideas, visit Sheely’s.