Home Decor Styling Essentials – Simple Items I Always Use

Do you ever feel like you don’t have what you need to style a room? I know there is a lot of pressure out there to buy more pillows and bring back a “haul” from a big store. But you know what? That’s just not my jam. Instead, I like to focus on key items that I find helpful in almost any space. If you ever feel like your space is missing something but don’t want to buy more random decor, these home styling essentials are the key pieces I use over and over to create a balanced, functional, and beautiful space. Here, I’m sharing my very favorite home decor styling essentials that I keep on hand for tackling any space!

Item	Why It Works	Where to Use
Black Paint	Adds contrast and instantly modernizes a space	Walls, furniture, doors
Woven Baskets	Adds texture + hides clutter	Living rooms, shelves, entryways
Stools	Multi-functional (side table, plant stand, seating)	Living rooms, bedrooms
Furniture Legs	Small upgrade with big visual impact	Sofas, chairs, tables
Vertical Art	Adds height and balance	Walls, shelves, corners

1. Black Paint for Contrast

Ok, “paint it black” is pretty much my motto these days. Whether it’s a wall, doors, or planter, let me just paint it black. (I mean, I did paint my entire house black for goodness sake!)

Black has so much to offer! It gives a space definition and contrast. Also, black pretty much transforms anything outdated to modern and fresh. A can of matte black paint transformed my front doors and made for a quick and easy update.

You might’ve noticed I’m also a big fan of black walls. There’s a misconception that it makes the room feel dark. Oh no! It’s actually great for defining a space and allowing other details to shine. Like this bedroom office nook which is my absolute favorite corner.

2. Woven Baskets for Texture

Another one of my home decor styling essentials are woven baskets. They come through for me every time. Whether I need some added texture or a way to cover a “flaw,” baskets are one of my go to home styling supplies. I use them for storage too, of course. Yet, I look for ways to choose them strategically.

These round baskets are serving multiple functions here! They are masking ugly planter pots (the ones the plants came in). Plus the tall one is also visually covering a large outlet. Finally, their round shape also gives this space some much needed relief from all the lines. Looking for more inspiration? Check out some of my favorite woven baskets and how I’ve used them throughout my home.

3. Stools for Height and Function

Another home decor essential I cannot living without is a good sturdy stool as it adds height and flexibility. I use stools for so many things and they work great in a pinch! I often use stools as plant stands to add extra height and are often what a little space needs.

This wood acacia stool has served many functions over the years! From a plant stand here, to a side table later and cleared off when we need extra seating for game night. Additionally, stools work well as side tables. I often include them in the living room or in a little sitting area. Living room side tables are often large and clunky, a good stool can jump in and serve that purpose with minimal space.

4. Furniture Leg Replacements

It’s all in the details right? Well, furniture legs make a big difference and one of my secret home styling supplies! Once I realized how easy it is to change them out, I keep this update in my back pocket.

For example, this dark charcoal gray couch is one of my favorite furniture pieces, but did not love the squared 80’s style legs.

Enter, these Wood Furniture Legs! I simply unscrewed the old ones and replaced them with a simple round wood option. It’s a small detail but makes a big impact. Furniture legs have pretty standard screws but just double check yours before ordering (some legs have a screw & bolt combo to be aware of, you’ll need a different type for that).

5. Vertical Art Prints for Height

One of my very favorite home decor styling essentials are vertical art prints. These tend to solve so many room dilemmas. A good solid (vertical) art print is like a long time friend, one who is always there and steps up when needed. I suggest keeping a few neutral art prints on hand for those tough home styling situations.

Why vertical? Well, chances are, we already have tons of horizontal art work. You know, landscapes and such. Those are great too! Especially for layering (see office shelf above) or for those smaller spaces. However, vertical art work adds much needed height (something almost every room needs) to bring the eye up!

Final Thoughts: Home Decor Styling Essentials

I hope this list of versatile home decor styling essentials shows you how just a few key items can go the distance in styling a home. Buying a ton of home decor it not necessary for a lovely, cozy space. By using key items such as black paint, baskets, furniture leg replacements, vertical wall art, and stools you can solve so many home decor dilemmas.

If you’re wondering more about putting all the pieces together, check out my step by step guide, How to Decorate a Room From Start to Finish.