I will get right to the point on this one and spare you the suspense. THE single most important concept that I believe will change how you view and decorate your living spaces, inside & outside is…..
DO NOT buy or use “SETS” of ANYTHING
This is literally the BEST design advice I could ever give anyone! Don’t just take my word for it; take a look at some examples below and decide for yourself. Then read on for some basic tips.
Living Room Set – clearly EVERYthing was bought together, seating, tables, AND lamps. 
Better – even though the sofa and red patterned chair are part of a set, the addition of the checked chair breaks it up. Also, the tables are less matchy. 
Best – the only sets here are pillows and the 2 center tables. And doesn’t this look more like home than a furniture showroom floor?! 
Bedroom – symmetry = good, matchy-matchy = not so much 
Better – even though there is a bedding set used, it pops in this room. Also, notice that the headboard is upholstered to take away from that matchy feeling with the remaining furniture. 
BEST – layered bedding, layered window treatments, symmetrical (but not matching) side tables
To be clear (and fair), there are times when it is totally appropriate (and smart) to purchase items in sets. These are limited to:
- Window treatments – you wouldn’t buy 1 window panel unless you’re planning to use it for something other than window treatments (i.e. pillow covers, small upholstery project).
- Some accessories (usually limited to 2-3 of anything; candlesticks/holders may be the exception)
- Lamps
- Pillows and throws
- Art
- Some furniture pieces (usually limited to 2 of anything)
- Accent chairs, side chairs, or stools
- Small ottomans
- MOST IMPORTANT FOR THE FRUGALISTA IN ME, when it is more cost effective to buy the set instead of the individual pieces. In this case, buy together but don’t use together. Break the set up by using pieces in different rooms.
In most of these cases, there are 2 things that can happen to avoid that matchy matchy furniture store look in your home:
- Multiple items can be used in different rooms, or
- Sets can be mixed with other items in the same room to create a designer look.
Note: Whether you lease or own, are in your forever home or not, and whether you have found your unique style or not, this WILL work.
