10 Best Living Room Accent Pieces for Artistic Home Decor

A thoughtfully chosen accent piece can turn an ordinary living room into a space that feels intentional and inspiring. The right decorative object doesn’t just fill a gap—it sets the tone, sparks conversation, and captures the personality of everyone who calls your home theirs. Whether it’s a sculptural vase, a luminous lamp, or a textile masterpiece, accent pieces invite artistry and warmth into your everyday surroundings.

If you’ve ever wondered how to add color, texture, and visual intrigue without a complete overhaul, this guide is for you. From hand-printed pillow covers crafted by Brooklyn artist Reed Slater to inventive lighting, bookends, and lush planters, we’re spotlighting ten living room accent pieces that do more than decorate—they transform. Each selection brings its own story and a distinct creative flair, starting with a one-of-a-kind textile from Teascarf Brooklyn. Ready to discover how artful details can redefine your living room? Let’s explore the most inspired accent pieces and see how each one can elevate your space.

1. Teascarf Brooklyn Art-Infused Pillow Covers

When it comes to combining wearable art with home decor, Teascarf Brooklyn’s pillow covers lead the pack. Each piece starts as a small-batch print by Brooklyn-based artist Reed Slater, who uses steeped teas to coax natural pigments out of organic materials. The result is a pillow cover that feels more like a canvas than a commodity—ready to transform your sofa into a gallery-worthy vignette.

Unique Tea-Infused Artwork

Reed Slater’s tea-printing process involves layering steeped teas over paper to capture fluid, organic patterns. No two prints are ever identical: subtle shifts in hue and edge detail make every cover one-of-a-kind. By translating these intimate, process-driven artworks into textiles, Teascarf Brooklyn brings a quiet kind of drama—art you can touch and display daily.

Premium Material & Craftsmanship

Each pillow cover measures 18"x18" and features a discreet hidden zipper that maintains a smooth, uninterrupted surface. Crafted in Midtown Manhattan, these covers pair perfectly with a 20"x20" insert for that full, plush look. The silk-like sheen and durable weave hold vibrant colors and intricate tea-jet patterns without feeling stiff or heavy.

Styling Tips & Color Pairings

Mixing prints with solids can create depth: pair a tea-dyed pattern with a solid velvet pillow in a complementary hue. For classic pairings, try navy blue & gold; for a fresh, airy feel, go sage green & white; or push boundaries with charcoal gray & rose pink. Arrange pillows in groups of three or five for a balanced, intentional display—odd numbers allow your eye to dance across the arrangement rather than fixate on the center.

Product Spotlight: Radiant Purple Pillow Cover

One bestseller is the Radiant Purple Pillow Cover, featuring rich violet tones punctuated by soft tea-stain rings. It’s easy to care for—spot clean or run a delicate machine cycle, then air dry to preserve both pattern and fabric. Plus, Teascarf Brooklyn ships free across the U.S. and Canada.
Explore the Radiant Purple Pillow Cover

Care, Durability & Safety

To keep colors vibrant, avoid harsh detergents and bleach—mild soap and cool water are all you need. When machine washing, use a gentle cycle and remove promptly before air drying. All Teascarf Brooklyn textiles comply with federal furniture flammability regulations, thanks to the new federal safety standard.

Where to Shop

Ready for more eye-catching designs? Browse the full pillow cover collection and enjoy free shipping on every order.
Shop the complete pillow cover collection

2. Sculptural Decorative Vases

A vase can be more than just a vessel for flowers—it’s a sculptural accent that brings form, texture, and even motion to a room. With their curving silhouettes and thoughtful finishes, decorative vases invite the eye to linger whether they’re holding fresh blooms or standing empty as art objects. By introducing varying heights and materials, they break up the horizontal lines of sofas and coffee tables, adding a vertical counterpoint that feels both dynamic and intentional.

Why Vases Add Artistic Flair

Even an empty vase commands attention when its shape or surface treatment feels deliberate and unexpected. A tall, slender profile creates a graceful focal point on a narrow console; a squat, rounded form anchors a cluster of objects on a sideboard. Because vases come in so many shapes and materials—ceramic, glass, metal, natural stone—they can shift the mood of a room from airy and minimalist to warm and earthy. In each case, the vase itself doubles as a three-dimensional artwork.

Material & Finish Options

Ceramic vases often feature hand-applied glazes, so each piece shows subtle variations in color and texture. Blown glass brings luminosity, especially when light filters through translucent hues or layered tints. Metal vessels—brass, copper, steel—can be polished to a mirror shine or left with a raw, patinated surface that hints at age. Natural stone or concrete lends a sculptural weight and pairs beautifully with organic materials. Mixing glossy and matte finishes keeps a display from feeling flat: combine a glazed porcelain bud vase with a rough-hewn earthenware jar, for instance.

Styling & Arrangement Strategies

When styling, think in threes or fives: group vases of different heights and shapes together for a balanced composition. One tall piece anchors the arrangement, while two or more shorter vases fill in negative space. You can cluster them on a console table, stagger them along a mantel, or scatter them across a shelf. Fresh flowers bring color and life, but dried grasses or branches work beautifully too—especially in rooms that get warm or have low natural light. For a minimalist look, leave one striking vase empty and let its form speak for itself.

Sourcing & Size Tips

Before buying, measure the display area so you pick vases that complement rather than overpower surrounding furniture. In a small living room, choose a single medium-sized vase instead of multiple large ones. For a room with high ceilings or broad surfaces, mix small bud vases with taller statement pieces to fill vertical space without cluttering. Seek out handcrafted or vintage finds—local artisans’ collections, weekend markets, or small-batch workshops—so your vases tell a story rather than feeling mass-produced. This approach reinforces the artistic narrative you’re building throughout your living room.

3. Artistic Sculptures & Figurines

Three-dimensional accents can transform an ordinary shelf or tabletop into a gallery-worthy display. Sculptures and figurines bring shape, form, and depth to a room, offering a tactile counterpoint to flat surfaces and framed art. Whether you choose a sleek abstract form or a carefully carved representation, these pieces spark conversation and reveal your personal taste in a way that’s both subtle and striking.

Why Sculptures Matter

Sculptures introduce depth and intrigue that two-dimensional art alone can’t achieve. Their volume casts shadows and plays with light, encouraging the eye to travel around each curve and edge. Beyond merely filling space, they become focal points—standing proudly on a side table or peeking out from a bookshelf. You can showcase a single dramatic piece or assemble a small collection that tells a story about your travels, interests, or favorite artists.

Material & Style Variations

Sculptures come in a wide array of materials and finishes. Resin pieces can mimic the look of stone with a fraction of the weight, while cast metal objects—bronze, brass, or steel—offer a cool, high-end aesthetic. Ceramic figures often feature hand-painted details or textured glazes that highlight the artist’s touch, and carved wood sculptures lend warmth with natural grain patterns. On the style spectrum, abstract shapes feel modern and dynamic, while representational forms—human figures, animals, architectural models—create a more narrative, whimsical vibe. You can choose a polished finish for a refined look or embrace a patinated surface that echoes an heirloom quality.

Placement & Pairing Tips

The best spots for sculptures and figurines are those that catch the eye without overcrowding. Side tables, mantels, and open shelving provide ideal stages. To build a balanced vignette, try pairing a sculpture with a stack of hardcover books—one flat book beneath a small figurine, another propped vertically behind a taller piece. Vary textures by adding a small plant or a framed photograph. On a wide console, group items in odd numbers for a cohesive arrangement: a mid-height sculpture flanked by two smaller objects keeps things interesting and balanced.

Maintenance & Care

Like any artwork, sculptures require gentle upkeep. Dust them regularly with a soft cloth or a feather duster, taking care around delicate details and patinas. For metal pieces, avoid abrasive cleaners—just a damp cloth will do. If your sculpture has a painted or delicate finish, test any cleaning method on an inconspicuous spot first. Finally, protect your investment by keeping sculptures out of direct sunlight, which can fade colors or cause certain materials—especially resin and wood—to warp over time.

4. Textured Throw Blankets & Art-Inspired Throws

A throw blanket isn’t just for chilly evenings—it’s a portable canvas that brings artful flair and tactile appeal to your living room. By choosing pieces with interesting weaves, vibrant colors, or unique prints, you introduce a layer of coziness that doubles as an expressive accent. Whether you’re curling up on the sofa or simply styling the armrest, textured and art-inspired throws can anchor your decor scheme and invite touch.

Mixing different textures—think chunky knits against smooth cotton or soft wool under sleek silk—adds visual interest and a sense of depth. These blankets can tie together pillows, rugs, and upholstery, creating a harmonious look without feeling too matchy-matchy. With the right selection, throws become more than accessories; they’re functional artworks that keep you warm and elevate your room’s personality.

Functional Art in Textile Form

Throws serve a practical purpose while making a design statement. A chunky knit blanket brings warmth and dramatic loops that instantly draw the eye, whereas a lightweight wool blend offers gentle drape and subtle sheen. Soft cotton throws feel breezy and are perfect for layering in warmer months. By selecting a throw with a distinct fiber or weave, you give your living room a handcrafted touch and a cozy invitation all at once.

Pattern & Color Selection

Art-inspired throws can range from abstract brushstroke motifs to bold stripes and geometric prints. Look for patterns that echo existing accent pillows or area rugs—this cross-referencing helps your space feel curated rather than cluttered. For instance, a monochrome geometric throw can harmonize with a busy pillow print, while a colorful stripe blanket can pick up accent hues from wall art. Aim for contrast: a neutral sofa becomes a backdrop for a richly patterned throw, and a vibrant couch benefits from a more subdued textile.

Styling Techniques

There’s no one right way to drape a throw. For an effortless vibe, casually toss it over the back or arm of your sofa, letting one corner spill toward the floor. Folding a throw into a neat rectangle and placing it in a woven basket adds structure and makes it easy for guests to grab when they’re cold. You can also layer a thinner art-inspired throw under a thicker textured blanket—this not only boosts warmth but also showcases the artful pattern peeking through.

Care Instructions

Maintaining a throw’s beauty begins with following its care label. Chunky knits often require hand washing in cool water and gentle agitation to prevent stretching. Many wool blends can go in the machine on a delicate cycle—just be sure to use a mild detergent and skip the spin when possible. Cotton throws are more forgiving; machine wash cold and tumble dry on low to preserve fibers and color. When in doubt, air drying flat helps retain shape and keeps materials looking fresh.

5. Statement Accent Tables

A well-chosen accent table acts like functional sculpture—it fills empty corners, holds your favorite books, and supports a statement lamp or vase. Whether you opt for a delicate nesting set or a sturdy marble-topped side table, these pieces bring both utility and artistic flair. By picking the right shape, material, and placement, an accent table can become one of the most versatile decor elements in your living room.

Defining an Accent Table

Accent tables differ from everyday side tables or coffee tables in scale and purpose. A side table typically sits beside seating for drinks and remotes, whereas a nesting table arrives as a stack of two or more surfaces you can spread out when needed. Accent tables tend to be smaller still—often sculptural, sometimes with an unexpected base or tabletop material. Common finishes include polished marble for a luxe touch, warm reclaimed wood for earthy appeal, sleek metal for modern contrast, or transparent glass to keep small rooms feeling open.

Expert Styling Tips for Accent Tables

Once you have the right table, consider these styling moves:

-Use a shallow tray or woven basket to corral coasters, keys, or reading glasses.

-Vary height by stacking a few hardcover books under a small sculpture or candlestick.

-Add a bit of greenery—think a small fern in a ceramic pot or a single-stem bud vase.

-Balance task lighting (a slender lamp or wall sconce) with decorative accents like a sculptural bowl or artful figurine.

-Stick to your room’s color story, and swap out seasonal treasures—pinecones in winter, seashells in summer—to keep the vignette fresh.

-Always choose one focal element (a bold candleholder or a textured object) to draw the eye and anchor the arrangement.

Sizing & Placement Guidelines

Proper scale ensures an accent table feels integrated rather than tacked on. As a rule, its height should come within 2–4 inches of the sofa’s arm height for easy reach when seated. In tight layouts, leave at least 12–18 inches of clearance between the table and surrounding furniture so foot traffic can flow. For larger living rooms, grouping two tables on either side of a chaise or sectional creates symmetry, while a single, well-positioned piece can cozy up a reading nook.

Material & Finish Insights

Mixing materials keeps your decor from looking too uniform. Pair a glass-topped table with a wooden coffee table to lighten a heavy seating area. Combine a geometric metal base with a marble or wood surface to introduce textural contrast. Matte finishes feel contemporary and understated, while high-gloss or reflective surfaces can bounce light into dim corners. If you’re nervous about commitment, start with a smaller accent table in a versatile finish—like black metal or natural oak—and build around it over time.

6. Why Flat Wall Art Is Perfect for Small Spaces

Accent pieces transform a home, but when space is limited, you have to be intentional. Sculptural vases, textured throws, and statement lighting all add personality — yet nothing elevates a room more effectively than flat wall art.

Why Flat Art Works Best in Small Homes

In apartments and city spaces, every inch counts. Flat art hangs flush against the wall, keeping walkways clear and rooms feeling open. It anchors a sofa, frames a dining area, or fills a blank wall without adding bulk. Unlike dimensional pieces, it won’t intrude into narrow spaces or overwhelm a room — it simply enhances.

Light and Atmosphere

Flat wall art also shines in different lighting. Instead of casting heavy shadows, prints allow color and detail to stay visible throughout the day. Whether in bright morning sun or soft evening light, the artwork continues to enrich the atmosphere without distraction.

Tea-Printed Wall Art

That’s why I created my tea-printed wall art collection. Each piece begins as a steeped tea bag pressed onto watercolor paper, leaving organic, painting-like patterns. These originals are then transformed into prints that bring warmth, texture, and intention to your walls.

In smaller homes, they create impact without taking up floor space. They’re lightweight, easy to hang, and versatile enough to work in a living room, bedroom, or hallway. Subtle but striking, they offer a unique focal point that feels curated yet effortless.

Final Thought

When you’re curating your home, accent pillows and décor complete the look — but flat wall art defines the space. And when that art carries the story of tea and creativity, it turns even the smallest apartment into a place of beauty and inspiration.

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7. Coffee Table Trays & Decorative Bowls

Coffee table trays and decorative bowls are the perfect balance of form and function, corralling everyday essentials into a cohesive display. Instead of loose remotes and coasters scattered across a surface, these artful organizers deliver a vignette that feels intentional—every item finds its place, and the result is a table that looks styled rather than messy. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet evening with your favorite book, a curated arrangement of trays and bowls makes your living room feel polished and purposeful.

Beyond organization, trays and bowls introduce sculptural layers that play with height, texture, and color. When chosen thoughtfully, they can echo materials used elsewhere in your space—mirrored metal linking back to a brass lamp base, or a raw ceramic finish picking up the warmth of wooden side tables. And because they’re portable, you can refresh your coffee table’s look in seconds: simply swap a bowl of polished stones for a cluster of small succulents, or trade a lacquered tray for a hand-blown glass version.

Why Trays & Bowls

Trays act as staging grounds, grouping smaller objects into a single focal area. A tray can hold remotes, candles, and coasters, making everything easy to find and keeping visual clutter to a minimum. Decorative bowls, conversely, serve as sculptural anchors. Even when empty, a bowl with soft curves and a unique glaze reads like a standalone piece of art. Filled with items—decorative orbs, shells, or fresh botanicals—it becomes a showcase of texture and color, drawing the eye and inviting touch.

Material & Shape Options

The material palette for trays and bowls is vast:

-Mirrored acrylic trays amplify light and visually expand tight spaces.

-Lacquered wood brings a refined sheen and warmth that complements natural fibers.

-Brass or metal trays offer a luxe patina that deepens over time.

-Ceramic bowls range from high-gloss glazes to matte, stoneware finishes.
Shapes vary too: round or oval pieces soften angular sofas, rectangular trays line up neatly with stacks of books, and freeform designs add an organic, handmade feel. Mixing materials—like placing a metal tray on a raw-wood table—adds contrast and depth to your styling.

Layering & Vignette Creation

Think of your coffee table like a small tabletop gallery. Start by stacking two or three hardcover art books to establish a base level. Next, position a tray offset to one corner of the stack. Inside the tray, nestle a decorative bowl filled with polished beads or natural shells—this introduces both pattern and an inviting tactile quality. Finish the vignette by adding a sculptural candleholder or a single-stem vase for vertical interest. If space allows, balance the arrangement with a solo bowl or tray on the opposite side of the table, creating harmony through symmetry and scale. Remember to work in odd numbers—three or five elements often feel more dynamic—and maintain a consistent color story so each piece feels connected.

8. Artistic Accent Lighting

Lighting does more than illuminate—it sculpts your living room’s atmosphere and showcases your favorite accent pieces. The right fixture can act as a piece of art, casting intriguing shadows and drawing attention upward. Whether you’re curling up with a book, entertaining guests, or setting a cozy mood, lighting layers bring both function and flair to every corner.

Why Lighting Is an Accent Piece

A lamp or fixture becomes an accent when its form, finish, or shade feels thoughtfully designed. A sculptural base in glazed ceramic or hand-forged metal can serve as a tabletop sculpture even when turned off. Pendant lights with colored glass or woven shades introduce texture and pattern overhead. By selecting fixtures that echo materials used in other accents—brass finishes that mirror a decorative bowl, or ceramic bases that pick up tones in your vases—you create a cohesive look that’s both purposeful and unexpected.

Recommended Illuminance Levels

Proper light levels ensure comfort and clarity. For general ambient lighting, aim for 10–20 foot-candles (108–215 lux); task lighting—reading, writing, or crafting—calls for 35–50 foot-candles (375–540 lux). These values come from industry standards outlined in the IES illuminance selector. Balancing these levels helps you avoid overly bright or dim zones and keeps your accent pieces looking their best.

Layered Lighting Approach

A single light source rarely suffices. Layer ambient, task, and accent lighting to create depth:

-Ambient: Ceiling fixtures or recessed downlights provide even illumination.

-Task: Table lamps, floor lamps, or adjustable-arm sconces focus light where you read or work.

-Accent: Up-lights, picture lights, or small spot fixtures highlight art, textiles, or architectural details.

To prevent glare and harsh contrasts, maintain a uniformity ratio (minimum to maximum illuminance) of at least 0.7. In practice, this means your brightest spot shouldn’t be more than 1.4 times as bright as your dimmest. This balance keeps the eye comfortable while letting each accent pop.

Stylish Fixtures to Consider

When choosing pieces, think of each lamp or pendant as a mini sculpture:

-Ceramic or metal lamp bases with organic curves or geometric angles.

-Colored glass pendants that filter light into jewel-tone pools.

-Woven‐fiber and rattan shades for a breezy, handcrafted feel.

-Adjustable-arm floor and table lamps that blend function with modern design.

A well-chosen fixture completes your vignette, adds another layer of visual interest, and ensures the room feels warm, inviting, and distinctly yours.

9. Decorative Bookends & Curated Art Books

Few living room accents combine form and function quite like decorative bookends paired with thoughtfully chosen art books. These mini sculptures not only keep your favorite volumes neatly upright but also introduce shape, texture, and bursts of color to your shelves and tabletops. When executed well, a bookend-and-book display reads like a curated gallery—effortless yet intentionally styled.

Function Meets Sculpture

Bookends have one foot in practicality and one in artistry. On the practical side, they prevent books from toppling over and create neat lines on shelves or consoles. On the sculptural side, they transform blank spaces into moments of visual intrigue. A pair of metal abstracts can catch light and cast playful shadows, while a set of ceramic figures or geometric marble blocks brings a refined weight to a stack of novels or oversized coffee-table books. Meanwhile, the art books themselves—with their oversized dimensions and illustrated covers—serve as horizontal pedestals for smaller accents like a brass trinket dish or a single bud vase.

Material & Design Choices

The options for bookend materials and styles are nearly endless.

-Marble Blocks: Polished or honed, these lend a luxe, timeless look and feel.

-Metal Abstracts: Brass, steel, or iron pieces can range from minimal geometric forms to fluid, organic shapes.

-Wooden Figurines: Hand-carved or industrial-cut, wood introduces warmth and a touch of artisanal character.

-Mixed Media: Combine metal and wood, stone and resin for a layered, collected-over-time vibe.

Beyond design, consider mixing horizontal and vertical book stacks. A low pile of landscape-format art volumes can anchor a taller bookend, while a vertical book column—spaced just so—lets a sculptural endcap shine. Alternating these orientations creates movement across a shelf and keeps the eye engaged.

Curation & Styling

Your choice of art books and how you arrange them can make or break the look. Start by balancing spine colors—group dark tones together for a moody patch or arrange a rainbow gradient for a playful pop. If you prefer a more understated scheme, stick to neutrals (ivory, taupe, slate) and let the textures of your bookend materials stand out.

Rotate seasonal or thematic titles to keep the display fresh. Swap in a botanical illustration book for spring, a landscape photography tome in summer, or a cozy interior-design volume in autumn and winter. This small tweak not only keeps your space feeling current but also gives guests a chance to browse different inspirations throughout the year.

Ultimately, decorative bookends and curated art books offer a dual benefit: they support and organize your reading collection while doubling as compelling accent pieces that reveal your taste and spark conversation.

10. Lush Planters & Greenery

Bringing living plants into your living room does more than introduce a splash of green—it infuses movement, texture, and a restful, organic vibe. A thoughtfully chosen planter becomes a sculptural statement, and the gentle sway of leaves, the arch of a stem, or the clustering of fronds adds a layer of life that no static object can match. On top of their visual appeal, many houseplants help filter indoor air, making your space feel fresher and more invigorating.

The Power of Plants in Decor

Indoor greenery contributes to a sense of well-being while softening the hard edges of furniture and architecture. Plants introduce subtle shifts as new leaves unfurl or blooms appear, creating a living focal point that evolves over time. If you’re new to houseplants—or lack a sun-drenched corner—opt for low-light, low-maintenance varieties that tolerate indoor conditions: their resilience lets you enjoy the benefits of greenery without the stress of constant upkeep.

Artistic Planters & Containers

A plant stand or pot can be as compelling as the foliage it holds. Hand-painted ceramic vessels showcase one-of-a-kind glazes and brushwork, while woven seagrass baskets lend an earthy, handcrafted touch. Patinated metal planters—think aged brass or copper—offer a warm, antique feel that deepens with age. Seek out containers with sculptural silhouettes—tall cylinders, faceted forms, or flared rims—to tie in with other accents and reinforce your room’s artistic narrative.

Placement & Light Requirements

Knowing your plant’s light preferences is key to a thriving display. Sun-loving species need windowsills or well-lit corners, whereas shade-tolerant varieties can brighten up a console table or bookshelf. Plant stands, wall-mounted shelves, and tiered arrangements allow you to layer pots at varying heights, mirroring the vertical interplay you’ve already established with vases, sculptures, and lamps. This layered approach maximizes impact without overcrowding any single surface.

Basic Plant Care Tips

Consistency keeps your greenery glowing. Water sparingly and let the top inch of soil dry before the next drink—most indoor plants suffer more from overwatering than from underwatering. A well-draining mix prevents root rot, and occasional misting or a humidity tray benefits tropical leaves. Gently dust large foliage with a soft cloth to maintain efficient photosynthesis, and rotate pots every few weeks so each side enjoys even light exposure. With these simple practices, your lush planters will thrive as living, ever-changing accents.

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

Art-inspired accent pieces are the finishing touches that transform a living room from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether it’s the tea-dyed pillow covers from Teascarf Brooklyn, sculptural vases that catch the light, three-dimensional wall panels, or the verdant drama of a statement planter, each element adds color, texture, and personal narrative. By mixing materials—marble bookends with hand-woven throws, blown‐glass pendants with reclaimed-wood tables—you create a space that feels thoughtfully layered and uniquely yours. Remember that odd-numbered groupings, balanced height variations, and a cohesive color story are the stylistic keys to pulling everything together.

Ready to bring artful accents into your own home? Browse Teascarf Brooklyn’s full collection of small-batch textiles and home decor creations to discover more one-of-a-kind pieces that speak to your style. From “objects worth keeping” to wearable art, you’ll find exceptional designs crafted in New York City, all backed by free shipping and eco-friendly packaging. Start exploring today at teascarfbrooklyn.com and let your living room tell its own vibrant story.