With an indefinite amount of uniquely designed pieces to choose from, shopping Decor and Accessories has become a tedious task, especially if you’re trying to include just the essentials and keep your space free of clutter. Having the perfectly decorated interior is about mixing things up and buying items that are visually appealing as well as functional.  

In Part I of this two-part series, we’ve compiled a list of the most essential décor pieces and accessories that will help you get started on revamping your space. At the end of the article, we’ve also got a downloadable checklist of décor essentials that will help you personalize your space like a professional interior designer.  

Here are the five amazing décor essentials that you’ll want to get your hands on:  

 

1. A Bench 

 

Probably one of the most versatile décor creations of the industry, benches deserve to be on this list not only for their visual contribution but also for their exceptional functionality. In addition to being used as extra seating, a bench can be used as a side table or as a footrest. They can be placed in entryways, in bedrooms at the foot of a bed and in dining rooms as seating to complement the table.  

Once you’re convinced that you need a bench, you’ll need to find the right one for your space. From leather covered ones to intricately detailed fabric benches, the Mercana Marketplace is home to hundreds of designs that we’re sure you’ll love. Check them out here.  

 

 

2. Statement Lighting  

 

Believe it or not, the right kind of lighting makes a significant difference in the way people perceive a room. Your room may be decorated to perfection, but a missing light will take away from its beauty. When determining lighting options for a room, make sure you have at least one statement piece. For example, a living or dining room could use a striking chandelier – one that not only provides ambient lighting but is also an instant conversation starter.   

Statement pieces need not always be large hanging chandeliers. A uniquely designed, exceptionally crafted pendant light or wall sconce can be just as impactful as a chandelier.  

Need one? Find the right statement piece for your home, here.    

 

3. A Tray 

 

A tray is a great investment for any room of the house. In addition to moving multiple items around conveniently, a tray can be used to confine similar décor items or small succulents on a table or flat surface for an organized look. If you have an entryway table, keeping a tray atop one of those for keys and spare quarters can be a game-changer.   

Ranging from industrially inspired to hand-crafted jute-lined trays, we’ve got hundreds of stunning options to choose from on the Mercana marketplace. Find the perfect one for your home, here. 

 

4. Books 

 

If we look hard enough, we’ve got so many books lying around – books from our childhood, ones from when we were still in school and those that we received as gifts. Gathering these books and using them as decorative pieces will help you add a touch of ‘you’ to your space. Place your favorite books on coffee tables, shelves, and display units, so you and your guests have something to flip through if you’re bored.  

Wondering how to use books as decor items? Pair them with bookends or store them in magazine racks that align with your home's design style. Visit the Mercana marketplace to view our vast collection of bookends and magazine racks to showcase your favorite reads.  

 

5. Curtains and Drapes 

 

Curtains and drapes may not be the number one décor item you’d think of investing in but in our opinion, appropriate curtains, blinds or drapes are the difference between a personalized space and an unfinished room. Whatever your style, we recommend choosing curtains, drapes, blinds or shades for your windows before you set out to buy any décor pieces or accessories.    

If you’re falling short of inspiration and ideas for your windows, check out these posts on Pinterest that may help you find the perfect curtain or shade for your windows.   

 

Now that you’ve got an idea of what must be prioritized in terms of décor items, we’ve got a little something for you to help you keep track of your purchases – A Checklist!  

The Mercana Team has put together a handy checklist to help you plan out your purchases to perfection. Scroll below to download a free, printable version of the Decor Essentials Checklist!Click here 

Want more décor inspiration? Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for your daily dose of interior décor inspiration and don't forget to watch out for Part 2 of this series coming out on Thursday, February 21.