While following the current trends is the way many people like to go when decorating their homes, using trendy items doesn’t mean your spaces have to look like everyone else’s do. One good way to make sure your look is unique while still being up to date, is to use items differently than their intended purposes.
One example is using a desk set in an eating area. It might sound rather unusual, but replacing a napkin holder with a very similar desk sorter can add interest to the dining room or kitchen. A matching cylindrical pencil holder can be used to hold silverware and a small matching basket is perfect for storing shakers for salt and pepper or for holding packets of sweetener.
At the same time, an attractive napkin holder will work as a holder for bills, notes, and other papers. This is a great way to give a softer touch to the home office. A ceramic napkin holder with a matching vase can add a touch of femininity to your home office. If a table set includes a matching ceramic toothpick holder, use this to store paper clips or other small office items.
I have also found that sometimes hand towels meant for the bathroom are available in a greater variety of colors, as well as more interesting colors, than those intended for the kitchen. Bathroom towels tend to be thicker, more absorbent, and of higher quality as well. There is no rule that says you cannot purchase washcloths instead of dishcloths or buy bathroom hand towels instead of kitchen towels.
Accent pillows that are designed for living spaces often look great in bedrooms as well. While you can usually find pillows to coordinate with bedding, a few contrasting pillows can add interest. Often times, pillows for living areas are a bit larger as well, so they work well on large beds.
These are just a few simple ideas, but the possibilities are endless. Finding interesting ways to use various items will make each space look fresh and give it a sense of its own personality.