“There is something to be said for collecting as you go along, but unless your style is naturally eclectic, I recommend treating a vintage object as you would a piece of art. Allow it to inform the room rather than trying to make it work with an already established visual rhythm.”
—Cathy Purple Cherry, AIA, CAS, LEED AP, Purple Cherry Architects 

“Combine items in unexpected ways, like antiques in a modern vignette. Blend texture and finishes and incorporate different heights and scale. Edit yourself and don’t fill every inch of space. It is most meaningful to incorporate objects from your home, family or travels.”
— Melanie Whittington, Whittington Design Studio

“The clients’ personalities should come through in their accessories. I first shop clients’ homes, building on what they have before purchasing items that mesh with what they already love.”
—Laura Hildebrandt, IFDA, NKBA,  Interiors by LH, LLC

“Too many items in a small space means you don’t see the individual pieces; you just see clutter. Accessories should reflect clients’ interests and personalities. A mix of old and new is always good. More contemporary pieces feel fresh, while antiques feel warm and personal.”
—Jamie Merida,  Jamie Merida Interiors

“We accessorize with unexpected finds, mixing in clients’ sentimental belongings with appropriate scale. We avoid incorporating too many pairs or triples of similar objects.”
—Samantha Sopp-Wittwer and Courtney Griffin, Interior Concepts

Bonnie Ammon, Bonnie Ammon Interiors

Barbara Hawthorn, Barbara Hawthorn Interiors

Laura Fox, Laura Fox Interior Design, LLC

Sarita Simpson and Jason Claire, Interior Matter