What is Finishing Touches?

The final details added to a space to complete its look and feel.

Description

In the realm of interior design, finishing touches refer to the final details added to a room or space that truly bring it to life. These often include elements that add personality, style, and functionality to the space, polishing the overall look and ensuring that every aspect is cohesive. Finishing touches can encompass a wide range of elements, from decorative objects such as vases, books, and art pieces to textiles and upholstery like throw pillows, curtains, and area rugs. Even the strategic placement of lighting can be considered a finishing touch, creating ambiance and highlighting key features of the room.

Successfully applying finishing touches requires a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the space's intended mood and personality. It's about balancing aesthetics and functionality, ensuring that the space not only looks complete but also serves its intended purpose efficiently. Finishing touches are what differentiate a well-designed space from one that feels unfinished or lacking in character. Essentially, they are the signature of the designer, showcasing their unique style and vision.

It's important to note that finishing touches are not afterthoughts. Instead, they are integral to the design process, often planned from the outset to complement the larger design scheme. They are the elements that tie everything together, acting as the final layer that completes the narrative of a space.

Usage

A designer might add finishing touches to a living room by incorporating soft, plush throw pillows on the couch, a textured area rug to anchor the seating area, and a series of framed photographs on the wall to inject a personal touch. Similarly, in a bedroom, adding a statement light fixture, a decorative mirror, and a selection of candles could serve as the final elements that complete the room's look.

FAQs

  • Can finishing touches change the feel of a room?

    Absolutely. Finishing touches can dramatically transform the feel of a room, adding warmth, sophistication, or vibrancy, depending on the selected items and their arrangement.

  • Do finishing touches have to be expensive?

    Not at all. Finishing touches can be sourced affordably, and often, it's the thoughtfulness behind the selection and placement that matters more than the price tag.

  • Can I add finishing touches myself?

    Yes, anyone can add finishing touches to their space. It requires attentiveness to detail and an understanding of what makes your space unique, but it is certainly within reach for DIY decorators.

Practical Application

When planning your finishing touches, consider the overall theme and color scheme of your space. Aim to select items that enhance the existing decor rather than compete with it. Pay attention to scale and proportion to ensure that your choices fit well within the space. Lastly, consider the functionality of each item, opting for pieces that not only look good but also add value to your everyday living.