A Slob Comes Clean 222: Basic Decor Principles to Help Keep Clutter at Bay with Tracy Steel
Sep 26, 2019
Tracy Steel, interior designer and author of A Redesigned Life, shares down-to-earth design principles to make real homes feel intentional. She covers balance and focal points, practical rug and furniture placement, and simple tricks to hide visual clutter. Tips on rotating collections and designing for everyday life keep spaces calm and usable.
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Refresh One Room With What You Already Have
- Start with one room and use what you already own instead of buying everything new.
- Small changes like slipcovers or a new rug from a garage sale can update a room affordably and quickly.
Use Symmetry Or Asymmetry To Anchor A Mantel
- Use balance intentionally on mantels: choose symmetrical balance for formal rooms and asymmetrical for relaxed family rooms.
- Keep displays minimal; two matching items per side for symmetry or mixed groupings for asymmetry works best.
Add Contrast With Height And Color
- Introduce contrast in height, color, or shape to create interest—avoid everything being the same size or color.
- Candles or objects of varying heights and a black/white or complementary color pair will draw the eye.
