Could there be gold inside? Living Spaces says 'Open Sesame' to good design.

If you have ever been faced with the challenge of finding something for an area in your home that you do not quite know what to do with, what you may need is some kind of accessory.

Accessories ranging from flowers in a contemporary vase to art pictures hanging on your walls all add the finishing touches to any room.

They add personality to a room, injecting your own touch and making your home unique to you, comfortable and inviting.

Art, area rugs, lamps and other accessories add warmth, character and texture to a room. They also add contrasting colours and patterns to the room.

For residents in Mandeville, Living Spaces operated by Maureen Shaw is one place to find unique accessories.

"What gives me the greatest pleasure," says owner of Living Spaces, Maureen Shaw, "is when someone opens the door and says, 'Aahh. I did not know that a place like this existed.' That, to me, is best."

You might think you are in an Ali Baba's collection of elegant side tables, vases, objets d'art, cushions, sleigh beds, rocking chairs, lamps and candles.

Conversation pieces

Here are the items with the bits of furnishings which could make excellent conversation pieces and local art as well.

In choosing your accessories, determine what you want it for - a focal point or just as a space filler.

By alternating textures, especially in the use of textiles, you can create additional comfort and softness. Try scattering cushions made with different types of material; throws on your sofa or lounge chair; napkins, place mats and tablecloths in the dining room or kitchen.

Maureen Shaw has travelled all over the word for accessories. The last show she attended was in Atlanta, Georgia, in mid-year.

Elegance for dinner!

So, how about a trip around the world? - Ian Allen/Staff Photographer

traditional taste

Many Jamaicans, in furnishing and decorating their homes, are traditional in taste.

Fortunately for them, current trends in décor show that the dark, traditional furniture, which was so popular long ago, is now on its way back to the forefront of home design.

"The most important difference," Maureen Shaw notes, "is the mixture of textures."

While some of her clients ask her input from time to time in their choices, many are quite happy to browse and walk away with something of their own choice.

"Everyone has his/her own ideas," the home stylist notes.

- Outlook Team