Pro Tricks

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A Graceful Balance

If you like things organized and balanced, you will probably prefer a balanced composition to your home decorating. This is called “Symmetry.” There’s an inherent serenity in a balanced décor, along with a sense of order and calm.

There are many different ways to create this look, but I’ll share a few that will hopefully inspire you.

Identical sofas or loveseats upholstered in the same fabric, facing off in the room.
A pair of slipper or accent chairs covered in a complementary fabric, placed near each other in the room, and balancing the seating arrangement.
Repeating some the same fabrics for draperies.
Matching end tables with matching lamps will anchor the grouping.
Fireplace mantels with matching topiaries, candle sticks, vases etc. on each end, with a center arrangement if space allows.

Successful symmetry decorating can be achieved by taking into consideration the following suggestions.

Respect the room’s formal plan without being predictable.
Consider scale and proportion. Don’t attempt to create mirror images on opposite sides of the room. For example: An antique Chippendale highboy can anchor one corner of a living room. In its place on the facing wall can be a simple composition of framed pictures, tree, reading corner etc.
Balance the visual weight of architectural details with appropriate styles of furniture and accessories.
Soften the room of an absolutely symmetrical arrangement by introducing a few surprises. Such as: varied occasional tables, additional plants and foliage, an ottoman for one chair etc. You get the idea!

With a little thought and planning you can achieve a marvelous, symmetrical look to your decorating. It just may be the look your after!