CandlesCandles are one of the most timeless ways to add an element of style to your home décor, and since candles are available in almost every shape, size, color and scent, it's easy to find votives, pillars and floating candles that complement your taste perfectly. From guest rooms and bathrooms to dining rooms and bedrooms, a few carefully placed candles can update – and light up – almost any space. They're also a classic way to create an inviting atmosphere for family, friends and guests.
Many people enjoy using candles in dining rooms, on both tables and sideboards, as a way of creating a sophisticated atmosphere for dinner parties and social gatherings. But you can also light candles on a daily basis as a way of establishing a calm, relaxing environment within your home. More decorative candles, such as hand-dipped beeswax tapers, elaborate pillars and candles with inlaid or "embedded" flowers, shells and objects, also make interesting ornaments or accessories for display on shelves, end tables and cabinets.
Using candles with colors that match or complement your wall or upholstery colors is an excellent way to create a sense of unity within a space. If particular colors repeat throughout your home, try using accent candles in related colors to create a decorative theme. This technique works especially well if you choose large candles or group smaller candles together to create a dramatic focal point.
Fireplaces and coffee tables provide two wonderful opportunities to decorate with candles. Bring empty fireplaces to life during the summer months by filling them with several sizes of candles in the same color. Light the candles in the evenings and enjoy their gently flickering glow. Try creating a similar grouping of candles on a low coffee table or even on the floor (use glass or metal candle holders) for a similar effect. Other simple tactics for decorating your home with candles include placing a single, lit candle in a guest bathroom when friends visit, and using one or two candles in the kitchen to help eliminate smells and odors. Playing with interesting or unique candle holders and candelabras can lend a new dimension to table top centerpieces, and blending floating candles and flowers in shallow bowls or vases is always a stylish decorative option.
A few candles in the bedroom – on a bedside table, side table or even window ledge – lend a stylish touch to the space. Choose pure white candles or aromatherapy candles with floral fragrances for an even more romantic effect. Even burning a single, scented candle in a home office can help diffuse stress and create a peaceful atmosphere in which to work.
When it comes to using candles for home décor, the only real "rule" is to be creative. Candles can add an element of whimsy, playfulness, elegance or style to any space – it all depends on what you dream up! |
