Bringing a room together with accessories seems like such a daunting task. Minimalism design is very trendy and clutter is not - so how do you know what to buy and where to place it? Don't worry, we got you!

If you're not wanting to get into the tchotchke game, try adding seasonal items like toss pillows and blankets; lighter colours and patterns in the warmer months, and plush fabrics and textures for the cooler months. Our brain recognizes the colours and textures which then tickles our senses.

Small scale furniture can make a room seem more personalized without being too heavy. Accent stools and cocktail tables add a sophistication and functionality that's hard to ignore.

Family portraits are sentimental and shouldn't be displayed for all your guests to see. Keep those photos in areas that aren't occupied by your guests like a home office - you'll still appreciate the photo and your guest won't be constantly reminded about that family vacation you took to Disney World.

Think of your decorative items as jewelry for the home. Curtain rods are functional but the right finial and finish can add a statement to simple drapery. Mixing metal in a room has become more and more accepted in the design world so if you have chrome furniture, add some brass curtain rods, and copper accents to make it look like it was done on purpose.

Designer accessories can start to add up, especially if you're trying to fill your whole house, but big retailers have staple items you can mix in to complete a room. We've found some great looking accents that will help you achieve a high-end look without breaking the bank:

H&M
Sweedish retailer H&M has recently gotten into the home decor market and has unique accessories that don't disappoint. These small metal baskets come in a variety of trendy finishes and can help you organize your clutter.




La Maison Simons
A Quebec staple in clothing and home decor, Simon's recently opened a store at Square One in Mississauga and it's worth the drive from downtown Toronto. These kitchen towels feel like toss blankets for Barbie dolls, you'll feel bad using them around the house for cleaning purposes.




Umbra
Well known brand with a flagship store in Toronto, Umbra offers a variety of modern accessories from wall hooks to toilet paper holders. Their curtain rods can fit into any budget - so that room that you've been putting off buying drapery for, there's no excuse!




IKEA
If you haven't heard of IKEA, you must be living under a rock. I'm sure we've all been there for 75¢ hot dogs and Lingonberry juice, but they've really started to up their ante to compete with other furniture stores. These serving trays are the perfect inclusion to any weekend brunch or maybe you're feeling really classy on Monday morning - you do you!