Transform Your South African Home with Affordable Decorative Accessories
Here in sunny South Africa, we pride ourselves on creating homes that feel warm, welcoming, and uniquely ours — whether you're curling up in a coastal cottage in KZN, decorating a slick city loft in Jozi, or styling your family home in the winelands. One surefire way to bring personality and charm to any space? Decorative accessories. These little design extras may be small in size, but they’re mighty in impact. Let’s explore what they are, why they matter, and how you can use them to make your home magazine-worthy — without breaking the bank.
Key Takeaways
- Decorative accessories are the finishing touches that personalise your space and tie your décor theme together.
- They include wall art, vases, mirrors, textiles, plants, lighting, and even functional items like trays and storage.
- Accessories offer an affordable way to switch up your style for seasonal updates or new trends.
- In South African homes, bold textures, natural elements, and vibrant colours are especially popular.
- You can mix and match styles — like modern with rustic — using accessories to create balance and interest.
Curious how to visualise different accessories in your space? Try our built-in interactive décor tool below.
🛋️ Interactive Décor Preview
Preview will update as you select options above.
What Are Decorative Accessories?
Decorative accessories are the finishing elements of a beautifully designed room. They’re the subtle (or bold!) items that fill the gaps and enhance the look and feel of a space — from a sleek mirror in your hallway to a scatter cushion on the couch or a stack of artful coffee table books. Unlike furniture, they’re easy to update, swap out seasonally, or rearrange on a whim — perfect for those of us who enjoy refreshing our homes to match new trends, holidays, or moods.
Types of Decorative Accessories
You’ll be surprised how many things qualify as decorative accessories. In South African homes, you’re likely to spot:
- Wall Art: From bold abstract paintings to framed botanical prints, wall décor transforms blank walls.
- Mirrors: A favourite trick to bounce natural light and make rooms feel larger.
- Textiles: Cushions, curtains, throws, and rugs bring softness and warmth.
- Lighting: Lamps and candles cast a welcoming glow. Trés chic when load-shedding kicks in!
- Plants: Artificial or real, greenery brings life into any space. Fake plants have come a long way, too!
- Decorative Storage: Like baskets, trays, or embellished boxes — useful and eye-catching.
“Accessories are like the spice rack of décor — small additions that truly bring flavour and identity to your home.” — Local Jozi Stylist
How Decorative Accessories Impact a Space
Used well, accessories add texture, colour, and personality to an interior. They tie together your larger furniture pieces and help guide the eye through the room. In many SA homes, accessories bridge contrasting styles — like vintage wood and modern steel — and give the space a layered, curated look.
Don’t Underestimate the Power of Textiles
Throws, runners, and rugs anchor your furniture, provide warmth in winter months, and bring in playful pops of colour. Why not revamp your living room by switching out your scatter cushions with vibrant textures from the Cushions Collection at Future Decor?
“Updating your accessories seasonally can make your entire home feel new — without buying new furniture!” — Nandi from Cape Town
Choosing Decorative Accessories That Fit Your Style
When choosing accessories for your home, think about three key things:
- Colour & Pattern: Do the accessories contrast or complement your walls and furniture?
- Material & Texture: Mix shiny metals, natural woods, textured ceramics or soft linens for interest.
- Functionality: Choose items that are not only beautiful but serve a purpose — like this eye-catching gold hourglass.
Quick Comparison: Accessories by Style
| Style | Common Materials | Accessory Ideas |
|---|---|---|
| Modern | Glass, chrome, matte black | Mirrors, LED lamps, abstract art |
| Rustic | Wood, linen, stone | Woven baskets, earthy vases, vintage clocks |
| Boho | Macrame, rattan, ceramic | Lanterns, mixed cushions, potted plants |
| Scandi | Light wood, whites, soft fabrics | Minimalist trays, candles, throw rugs |
Where to Start
If you're just diving into decorating, begin with one room and pick one or two types of accessories to experiment with. Browse our full décor collection to get inspired. Once you get the hang of colour and texture combinations, you’ll be styling your whole home in no time. And if you’re curious about SA’s broader interior trends, read our post on top local shopping trends for décor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are decorative accessories?
Decorative accessories are items used to enhance the aesthetic appeal and comfort of living spaces. They can include wall art, sculptures, vases, candles, mirrors, and more.
What types of items are considered decorative accessories?
They include wall hangings, sculptures, table-top items, lighting elements, plants, and textiles like cushions and rugs.
Can decorative accessories be functional?
Yes! Many accessories like trays, storage boxes, or stylish clocks are functional as well as beautiful.
How do I choose accessories that suit my home?
Look for pieces that complement your existing furniture in colour and texture, and reflect your personal style.
Can I use decorative accessories in every room?
Absolutely. Accessories work in living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms, and even hallways to complete your space.
How often should I update my accessories?
As often as you want – many people update seasonally or when they crave a fresh look without changing large furniture.
Are accessories suitable for small spaces?
Yes! Using accessories like mirrors and lights can actually make small rooms feel more open and styled.
Where can I buy decorative accessories in South Africa?
Future Decor offers a wide range of accessories online – from vases and throws to lighting and furniture accents.
