What makes a house a “home?” Color and texture are key elements in making a home warm and inviting, however, it’s also the decorative details that give a home your personal touch.   “Discovering and defining style is easier than many realize,” says Kimberly Kennedy, author of The Art and Craft of Entertaining and lifestyle consultant to the National Candle Association (NCA).

“First you need to ask yourself, ‘What makes you comfortable, happy and contented?’ Then, what types of fabrics, colors or fragrance are you comfortable with? Do you like to accessorize with candles or fresh flowers or both?”  To help make your home comfortable and inviting, Kennedy recommends the following:

– A Splash of Color:  A welcoming home is created when guests recognize a reflection of who you are as soon as they enter your front door. Color is a great way to personalize your home. From colorful accessories, such as throw pillows, artwork, and even candles, a little color can go a long way in making your home unique and welcoming for guests.

– Fabrics Galore:  Fabrics add texture, depth and color to a home. Whether you choose several colors or a monochromatic color scheme, add interest and dimension to your home by mixing textured fabrics, such as velvets, chenilles and silks. Not only are they pleasing to the eye, but they’re comfortable to the touch.

– Decorative Accents:  Artwork, area rugs, window treatments, sconces and candelabras are another way to create an inviting home. Area rugs can anchor a room by visually breaking up areas of wood flooring and reducing sound echoing, while adding design and cushioning the step. Window treatments soften the edges of a room and reflect your personal style. Carefully placed accessories add a finishing touch.