Unusual Decorating Ideas

This San Francisco Victorian home, designed by Ken Fulk, has tradition, modern and unexpected elements in every room. Fulk brings out the playful side of this house with whimsical touches and unusual elements that could be repeated in your home, too.


1. Add Height with Plants


Placing the tall leafy tree in the bay window is a great use of space. Put a floor plant in a great pot and move it to a ledge or table to create volume and height, if you have a tall ceiling.


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2. Join Two Tables Together


Don't fret is you find the perfect table and it's not long enough. Simply join two matching tables together. It's an unusual idea, but works seamlessly in the room. "The polished nickel bases add just the right amount of glamour," says Fulk. Top it off with small colorful bouquets to unify the tables.


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3. Boldly Recarpet the Stairs


The zebra print carpeted stairs liven up the black and white theme without overdoing it. It's another way Fulk adds his playful touches to what ordinarily seems like a boring color palette. If you staircase is looking dull, try keeping this pictures uniform and changing up the carpet instead.


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4. Replace Cabinet Panels


The chicken wire on the cabinets is the perfect combination of texture and muted sheen for this streamline and clean look. If you have matching service sets, use a chicken wire screen to show them off.







5. Paint Horizontal Stripes


"Stripes have an amazing power to instantly transform a room," says Fulk. These thick horizontal stripes are less intimidating and become more playful underneath the framed silhouetted graphics. The furry rug, stools and blankets break up the harsh lines and makes this room fun enough for the kids to stay in, without losing sophistication.


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6. Hang a Chandelier in an Unexpected Place


This simple bathroom is made beautiful through details. The showstopper, however, is the crystal chandelier. Putting a bold piece like this in a bathroom wakes this room up and draws your attention to the wonderful height of the room.


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7. Wallpaper an Accent Wall


Accenting a wall in pinstripe wallpaper instead of a solid color enhances the ornate bed frame and makes the rich wooden frame pop against the black and white with regalia.


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