Amanda Sinistaj, principal of Birmingham-based Ellwood Interiors, creates an edited look by using forethought. “Too many ideas usually show up as too many ideas. Pick your two or three favorites and coordinate them so they work nicely together.” Amanda also suggests “having a focal point and try not to distract from it.” Textures and layering can add to a clean but warm look. She advises mixing sheens and textures, “but use the same tones of color for a more minimal and subtle look. If you are layering bold colors, make sure there is an underlying cohesive vibe so they all still work together.”
When she’s working with a client who goes overboard with accessories, such as family photos, Amanda advises whittling the collection down so it has meaning. “Too many family photos create clutter, which detract from the beautiful memory the photograph itself represents.”