Mix, Don't Match

Sally bucked the “matchy, matchy” rule by placing different end tables and lamps on either side of the sofa in her living room. The mismatch works because, even though one table is a white Asian-inspired look and the other is a black step-like design, both tables are the same height. A sleek brass reading lamp pairs nicely with the simple white table, while a large silver-leaf table lamp fits with the more substantial black table. She stacks books, leans artwork, and displays sentimental objects, like a collection of seashells in a pretty yellow bowl, atop the tables to add visual interest.

White side table: Ming Cream, from The Kellogg Collection; kelloggcollection.com
 Black side table: discontinued; for a similar look, try the Dunstan 3 Shelf Side Table in distressed black, from Ballard Designs; ballarddesigns.com

NextHang Wallpaper in Small Spaces