15 Accessories for the Living Room That Enhance Space

Imagine you’re lounging in your living room and you notice that the space lacks character. In other words, nothing really stands out. It goes without saying that we want our living rooms to feel not only warm and welcoming but also have certain features that draw attention. While key elements such as lighting and furniture placement are certainly important, the minor details breathe life into a space. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of ideas for visually interesting accessories for the living room. Adding a few nice items transforms an otherwise plain room into an eye-catching one.

1. Glass Cloche

Draw special attention to your favorite piece of decor by placing it under a glass cloche.

Much like a pedestal, a glass cloche makes anything, from small statuettes to dried flowers, appear more special and elegant. It’s an effective way to keep dust away from unique living room accessories that you want in mint condition or to preserve the aroma of unlit-scented handles. Even something as simple as placing your favorite ornament under the glass cloche will instantly add appeal to a coffee table or sideboard.

2. Chess Set

After only eight moves, over 318 billion different positions are possible on the chess board.

A sculptural chess set exudes sophistication. The visual flair serves as an interesting decor element. There are various materials and styles you can find for a chess set to fit the general theme of your living room. From glass to wood, chess sets are as diverse as the strategies found in one of the world’s most prestigious games. If you know your way around a board, a chess set can double as a great conversation starter and a way to spend some time with friends and family.

3. Throw Blanket

A woven throw blanket adds warmth and texture to living room furniture.

One of the easiest ways to draw attention to a piece of furniture is through contrast and dimension. This is where a throw blanket comes in handy. In a living room dominated by neutral tones, for instance, a bold-colored blanket can join other small accents—such as throw pillows and lampshades—in elevating the space. Alternatively, you can mix and match different textures by draping a thick-woven blanket to perhaps a leather sofa. In a sense, throw blankets are among the must-have living room accessories.

4. Blanket Ladder

Blanket ladders can be a lovely addition in living rooms as well as bedrooms.

One throw blanket is often enough for adding dimension to a space. But if you enjoy spending those chilly evenings in the living room with the family, you need a blanket for everyone. And that’s when the room can end up looking messy afterward. In this case, a blanket ladder can present an ideal solution. It is one of the most useful accessories for a living room, allowing you to store blankets that are not in use. Besides added practicality, wooden blanket ladders are known for their subtle rustic appeal.

5. Unexpected Features

Make your living room come to life with something unexpected such as large statues of animals.

Sometimes, all it takes is an unexpected feature—or a collection of them—to transform a living room. This means adding something that will raise an eyebrow. For instance, a towering sculpture or two of a giraffe in between pieces of furniture is sure to be a conversation starter. You can normally find such novelties at antique shops, thrift stores, and flea markets. 

6. Indoor Tree

Take your love of plants to the next level by adding a tree in your living room.

A common way to add a splash of color to a space is with indoor plants. But if you want to throw in that wow factor, why not kick it up a notch by placing a tree in your living room? A potted tree can serve as a focal point and purify the indoor air. Regarding maintenance, taking care of one large tree is normally easier than caring for a collection of small plants. 

7. Wicker Trays on the Wall

Wicker trays and baskets are available in a range of shades, sizes, and patterns.

A display of woven trays on the wall can be one of the most charming accessories for the living room. It is an easier and more budget-friendly way to bring attention to a wall—as opposed to buying a piece of art. Wicker decor complements natural elements around the living room such as houseplants and wooden pieces. A rule of thumb when curating a small selection of decorative items is to go for odd numbers.

8. Books on a Coffee Table

A stack of books on a coffee table is sure to grab attention.

Coffee table books and magazines lend a classic appeal to a living room. They are a great way to keep guests busy as you prepare refreshments. A neatly stacked selection—such as interior design and architecture books—can easily play into the room’s decor while adding visual interest. Consider displaying the books you’re currently on for an easy conversation piece and quick access when it’s time for the next reading session. 

9. Candle Arrangement

Set the mood in your living room with a curated arrangement of candles.

The timeless appeal of candlelight makes candles one of the best living room accessories. Anything from scented or votives to even LED flame candles can set the ambiance in a living space. Should you opt for scented candles, choose natural aromas such as jasmine, gardenia, or lavender rather than those made of artificial ingredients. 

10. Framed Mirror

Large mirrors are a great way to maximize both brightness and perception of space.

The impact of mirrors on living spaces hardly goes unnoticed. Besides maximizing brightness and making a space appear larger, a mirror can serve as a decorative item as well. This also makes it one of the most strategic small-space accessories. A chic design choice involves leaning a beautifully framed mirror against a living room wall, instantly elevating the perimeter. 

11. Wood Stump Table

Wood stump tables exude a rustic appeal as well as natural texture to a living space.

A wood stump table or two, for instance, can quench our longing for nature while serving both form and function. And let’s not forget to mention that it makes for a unique design choice, adding visual interest to the living room. It’s a great way to tie a natural theme together in combination with potted plants and wicker baskets.

12. Wicker Storage Baskets

Wicker elements of decor tend to provide storage space while adding visual interest.

Perhaps one of the most practical accessories for the living room is a wicker basket. In addition to providing storage space for random items such as extra throw blankets and pillows, it can also be a chic addition to a living room. The organic tones of these cute and convenient items correspond with various color palettes.

13. Oversized Artwork

A large piece of art can do wonders in elevating an otherwise quiet living room.

You can’t go wrong with displaying a collection of artwork as a gallery wall. But if you want to make a design statement, one oversized painting is the way to go. A striking piece of art can make for a lovely focal point in your living room. This is also a solid opportunity to find a unique piece rather than a classic print. Look out for local artists selling their art on social media or at local markets. It’s a way to make your room stand out and acts as a conversation starter.

14. Dame Jeanne Vase

Dame Jeane vases are available in several colors and sizes.

A Dame Jeanne vase is a blown glass container that can hold a small arrangement of flowers—or be displayed as it is. Dame Jeanne vases come in various colors, including amber, green, and cobalt blue. Amber ones, for instance, will exhibit a gorgeous glow as they catch the light in your living space.

15. Neon Sign

The enticing glow of neon signs can instantly perk up a plain wall.

As one of the most visually striking unique living room accessories, a neon sign gives any space chill energy that conveys a sense of fun. After all, you generally see it in a coffee bar—not a living room. Aim for a sign with a short yet meaningful message as it lights up the wall. 

There are a ton of ideas that pop up when you search for “accessories for my room,” and that can be overwhelming. Enjoy the process. It’s a chance to flex your interior design skills and reflect your style and taste through your room’s decor.