The first steps of moving in and decorating a space are fun and thrilling—it’s like mapping out a blank canvas with infinite potential. You’re excited to find the perfect bed, couch, or rug, and it’s satisfying when everything comes together. But what happens two or three years later?
Furniture and décor are much like a closet full of clothes in that it’s natural not to feel the same zeal years later. I bought a big piece of art from Etsy before deciding I absolutely couldn’t stand it months later. Within a year, my tastes had shifted to favor more moody neutrals, proving the design process is truly never-ending. But instead of completely revamping my apartment or spending thousands of dollars on new furniture, I found tiny décor swaps could have a big impact. Sometimes a small switch can change a room in the same way a new couch can.
Creating a space you actually want to be in might mean adding a sconce or two or creating mood lighting with a fancy candle. Whether it’s a new rug or a new pillow, unique home décor can go a long way. For a list of objects currently on my shortlist, keep browsing below.
Candles have shifted away from basic tapered sets to full-fledged art forms like this beeswax one from the New Zealand-based brand Post Objects.
Just imagine your morning matcha in these beautiful glasses.
Instead of tossing your pillows, an easy fix is to change their cover.
Bet you’ve never seen salt and pepper shakers like these.
Elegant plates are a subtle upgrade that can have a huge impact.
Use these cute little dishes as an all-purpose catch-all, a fruit bowl, or to hold your everyday jewelry.
As you can see, I’m a big fan of eccentric pillows.
A statement mirror can ground a room similar to a great piece of art.
Just add in a pretty bouquet, and you’re set.
There are no words to describe how badly I want these.
Interior designers often compare lighting to jewelry, defining it as a finishing touch that rounds out a room. If you’re looking for some subtle ambiance, try a pretty sconce.
The best display for a fancy cheeseboard.
If a bare console or coffee table is your situation, try adding a ceramic bowl for a point of visual interest.
Crate & Barrel recently collaborated with interior designer Jake Arnold for a California-inspired collection, and the pieces are so good.
The squiggly details on this vase just do something to me.
Pull these out for a coffee-and-cake moment at your next dinner party.
A table this cute would usually be five times the price, so I’m all over this.
I deeply believe one can never have too many vases.
For a more intimate table setting, swap artificial lights for candlelight. It will make your meals feel fancier, trust me.
Better World Fragrance House is Drake’s latest side hustle. The candle collection includes a scent that allegedly smells like him (sorry to burst your bubble, but it’s sold out) and other scents inspired by the rapper’s life.
These are acrylic, making them ideal for spontaneous outdoor picnics, rooftop parties, beachside meals, and more.
I have a Coyuchi blanket, and it’s honestly my favorite. A good blanket can do so much to improve your sleep.
Designer Eny Lee Parker is a star in the interior design world. She recently released a collection in partnership with goods purveyor Lulu & Georgia.
Metal tables sometimes evoke memories of the school cafeteria, but Hem’s take feels warm and inviting.
Les Collection is a go-to for pieces that are one of a kind.
A rug is one of the quintessential pieces in a room, and refreshing a room is as simple as swapping it out. Jute is both elegant and functional, so no babying is required.
Just know this lamp is at the top of my wish list.
