The most inviting homes aren’t the ones that look staged for a catalog. They’re the ones that feel lived in, loved, and uniquely personal. Striking that balance between style and comfort takes a thoughtful touch, a lot of heart, and a good eye for design. Whether you’re refreshing a single shelf or reimagining an entire room, these tried-and-true tips will help you add charm, confidence, and character to your space:

Let Your Displays Tell a Story
Just like reading a book, the eye naturally moves from left to right and top to bottom. Arrange shelves, mantles, and tabletops in a flow that feels intuitive. A well-balanced arrangement lets your décor “read” beautifully and feel complete.

Set the Mood
Lighting transforms a space, and nothing adds ambiance like candles. Whether flickering on a dining table, glowing in lanterns, or tucked into a bookshelf, they create intimacy and warmth. Choose seasonal scents to make your home smell as inviting as it looks.

Add Life With Greenery and Florals
Fresh or faux, greenery softens hard edges, brings texture, and adds energy to a room. Mix eucalyptus, magnolia leaves, and seasonal stems for a layered, organic look.

Accent With Pillows
Pillows are décor’s style powerhouses. Use them to introduce color, pattern, or texture, and swap them out with the seasons. A few well-placed pillows can completely change the look of a sofa or chair.

Toss in Cozy Throws and Blankets
A draped throw or a basket of blankets says, “Welcome Home.” Beyond function, layering textiles adds depth and creates a relaxed, lived-in vibe.

Don’t Be Afraid to Mix Woods
You don’t need matching wood finishes anymore. Combine up to three tones for interest—light grains with darker stains create beautiful contrast and balance.

Every Room Needs a Touch of Black
Think of black as eyeliner for the room: a little goes a long way. Frames, lamp bases, or cabinet hardware in black add definition, polish, and drama.

Pop With Accent Colors
Neutrals are timeless, but color makes a room come alive. From mustard yellow to sage green or dusty rose, choose hues that reflect your mood or the season, and sprinkle them through accessories, art, or textiles.

Lynne Barbee is the co-owner along with her daughter, Whitney Barbee, of Whitlyn’s Boutique located at 3853 N. NC 16 Business Hwy. in Denver. Visit their beautiful shoppe Tues–Fri 10–6 and Saturdays 10–3 or online at www.whitlyns.com for more inspiration (704.317.3104).