5 Ways to Use Accent Furniture in Your Home

A living room with an accent table
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Any piece of accent furniture worthy of being called that goes beyond mere functionality. It is often used for its great decorative value above all other considerations. You may not even have any practical or utilitarian need for it, but it serves to draw the eye in and create a bit of excitement, much like an accent color. Its purpose is to add color, definition, and drama to an interior space.​

What Is Accent Furniture?

Accent furniture is anything that stands out against the rest of the space's decor or style. The term comes from the meaning of the word "accent," which means stress, or emphasis. For example, if a room consists of mostly beige furniture and there is one colorful chair, the chair is considered accent furniture.

When thinking of bringing an accent piece into your home, there are many ways to go about it. It might be a good idea to splurge here, depending on the kind of accent you need. Or, if your style dictates it explore flea markets or thrift stores for vintage finds. You may even try your hand at DIY for a one of a kind look. The idea is to find something that delights you and gives your home that something extra that makes people take notice.

There are many ways to use accent furniture in your home.

Start With the Entry

The entry sets the tone for the rest of your home, and this is the perfect place for using accent furniture. A bombe chest, for instance, is a great accent piece. Any other painted, gilded, or ornate chest will work as well. Select a chest with a strong color or an outstanding shape.

Select Small Tables

Small tables are a great way to use accents in your space. Most often small tables that are painted, inlaid, or have some other interesting treatments are used as accent furniture. They may be made from unconventional materials, or have strong colors or lines; the choices are endless. Just make sure to choose the table for its attention-drawing power.

These tables can be used pretty much anywhere in your home from living rooms to bedrooms.

Furnish With Large, Imposing Pieces

An accent piece could just as well be a large and imposing piece. It could be an armoire, a china cabinet, a large painted folding screen. If you have a busy room, then your accent piece could be plain but with a striking color that complements what you already have in the room. On the other hand, if the rest of your furniture is muted, then go for a tall, imposing ornate piece.

Choose a Chair With Flair

Chairs are very often used as accent pieces. When you are selecting an accent chair look for one with a strong profile, or outstanding upholstery or a color that bowls you over.

It can even be in a different style from the rest of your furniture for even greater contrast. We know that mixing two very different styles can create amazing results. So if the rest of your furniture is traditional, try bringing in a modern chair, or the other way round.

Let Your Dining Table Be the Star

A dining table is a natural when it comes to accent pieces. Find a table that stands out because of its material, color, or finish. There are dining tables in every conceivable style and size. Choose one that appeals to you for the way it complements your dining chairs and the other pieces in the room. Arrange for lighting that brings it into its own.