21 MINIMALIST CHRISTMAS KITCHEN ISLAND CENTERPIECE DECORATING IDEAS EVERYONE WILL LOVE

Looking for some inspiration on decorating your kitchen island for Christmas? This post will show you 21 minimalist ideas for your kitchen island centerpiece.

I have always been more of a maximalist at heart. However, becoming a mom and filling your home with so many things for a little human can turn you quickly into a minimalist because there is always so much “stuff”.

At the same time, you want to make sure that your little ones experience the magic and joy of Christmas, am I right? So, I am always looking for ways to incorporate holiday decorating without going overboard.

Create a Calm, Elevated, Minimalist Christmas Kitchen

There is something so magical about decorating the kitchen for Christmas—especially when you keep things simple, intentional, and beautifully minimalist. The kitchen is the heart of the home, the space that sets the tone for holiday gatherings, cozy winter mornings, and all the festive moments that naturally happen around the island. When you bring in minimalist Christmas kitchen décor, your whole home instantly feels calmer, cleaner, and more elevated.

Minimalist Christmas decorating isn’t about doing less. It’s about doing better: choosing fewer, more meaningful pieces that create a luxurious holiday look without overwhelming your space. Clean lines, natural greenery, soft twinkle lights, and warm seasonal textures all come together to make your Christmas kitchen feel serene and sophisticated.

If you’ve been searching for minimalist Christmas kitchen island centerpiece ideas, simple Christmas kitchen décor, or how to decorate a kitchen island for Christmas, you’re in the perfect place. These ideas are designed to be easy, uncluttered, elegant, and incredibly festive… all while keeping your kitchen functional.

Whether your home leans modern, Scandinavian, farmhouse, or classic minimalism, these centerpiece ideas will help you create a Christmas kitchen that feels intentional, warm, and stunningly simple.

Minimalist Christmas Kitchen Island Décor Tips (Before You Style)

Before you choose your centerpiece, these expert styling tips will help you create a clean foundation for your minimalist Christmas kitchen décor:

1. Start with a Clear Countertop

Minimalism shines when your surfaces are free from clutter. Remove everything except the essentials so your Christmas centerpiece becomes the star.

2. Choose a Single Color Palette

White, gold, natural wood, and greenery are ideal for minimalist Christmas styling. Sticking to one palette makes your kitchen look luxurious, calm, and cohesive.

3. Layer Soft, Organic Textures

Think: ceramic bowls, linen runners, cutting boards, pine garland, wood beads, or a tray made of marble or rattan. Minimalist doesn’t mean flat—texture adds warmth without visual clutter.

4. Add One Source of Soft Light

A single candle, a small strand of fairy lights, or a glowing ceramic house creates a magical minimalist glow without overwhelming the kitchen island.

5. Keep Scale in Mind

Oversized décor pieces work beautifully in minimalist styling. One large item looks cleaner than many small items.

p.s. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I'll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. I am so grateful for your support.

💡 Pro-tip: Grab a FREE 30 Day trial of Amazon Prime to get unlimited free shipping to make shopping for your coffee bar super easy – without even leaving home!

21 Minimalist Christmas Kitchen Island Decor Ideas

01 | Place faux garland, mini trees and tapered candles as a centerpiece

MyDomaine

I’m clearly a fan of Christmas garland everywhere. It looks especially chic on a large kitchen island. Add a few small trees to create a winter wonderland.

RECREATE THIS LOOK:

Related: 25+ easy and chic Christmas coffee table decor ideas

02 | Fill the space with a tray of sisal Christmas trees

image source

Enchanted Forest: Bring the enchantment of a winter forest indoors with a whimsical tray arrangement.

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03 | Use a wood slice as a tray centerpiece

christmas wood tray

Start with a wooden tray as the base and arrange pinecones, bottle brush trees, and a winter candle for a rustic touch.

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04 | Glass vases filled with pine needles & pine cones

source

Use faux snow mixed in with pinecones and branches to create a Winter frost theme.

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05 | White village homes and small trees

image source

I love the look of small white village collections for Christmas, adorn them a top a golden tray for an elegant holiday look.

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06 | Wooden tiered tray and village with trees

winter tray

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07 | Round rattan tray with nutcracker

Just a tina bit

Create a neutral bohemian Christmas look by using a round rattan tray and add a white wooden nutcraker with a small flocked tree.

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08 | Apothecary jars filled with candies

Kelleynan

You can keep things incredibly fun and simple by using a grouping of apothecary jars filled with Christmas candy.

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09 | A trio of mini trees in white planters

becky cunningham home

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10 | Place berry branches in a large vase

Kelleynan

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11 | A wood dough bowl full of ornaments and twinkle lights

Country Girl Home

Choose ornaments all in one shade—white, champagne, matte gold, or silver—and display them in a bowl, tray, or shallow basket. The uniform color palette creates a stunning minimalist Christmas aesthetic.

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12 | A neutral tray of Christmas accessories

image source

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13 | Pine Cone garland with lanterns and candles

Southern State of Mind

more christmas posts you might like:

🎄 21 Plaid Christmas table setting decor ideas

🎄 14 clever ways to decorate with garland this Christmas

🎄 55+ affordable & chic Christmas finds on Amazon

🎄 25+ classy Christmas outfit ideas

14 | A snowy jar of Christmas trees

A poised perspective

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15 | Amber bottles filled with pine branches

image source

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16 | Pre lit mini Christmas trees on garland

SOURCE: for the home

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17 | Use wood pedestal to hold a mini pine tree

Source: pinterest . com

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18 | Fairy lights and bottle brush Christmas trees

image source

19 | A nutcracker and faux cranberry branches

the fig home

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

20 | Gold reindeer & mini Christmas tree

image source

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

A Calm, Cozy, and Modern Christmas Starts in the Kitchen

Your kitchen is the place where the holidays really happen—morning coffee, last-minute wrapping, baking gingerbread cookies, late-night conversations, and family around the island. When you style it with minimalist Christmas décor, everything feels more peaceful, more intentional, and more magical.

The beauty of minimalist Christmas kitchen decorating is that it works with any style of home and instantly elevates the space. With just a few simple centerpiece ideas, your kitchen island becomes a stunning focal point that looks festive without the clutter.

Whether you choose natural greenery, a candlelit tray, a bowl of ornaments, or a simple garland draped down the island, these minimalist Christmas kitchen ideas will help you create a holiday look that feels timeless, elegant, and effortlessly chic.

If simplicity, beauty, and warmth are your goals this season, your kitchen island is the perfect place to begin.

You may also like:

🖤 How to decorate for Christmas based on your zodiac sign

🖤 How to put together the Ultimate Holiday DIY gift basket

🖤 14 clever ways to decorate your home with garland

Please feel free to email me at ashlina@thedecorista.com if you have any questions!  I’m always happy to help with decorating, life advice or even picking out a specific perfume!  Have an amazing day!!

Also, check out my Amazon shop HERE to shop all my favorite things, tips and tricks. You can also download the free LIKETOKNOW.IT app and follow me HERE.

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As always, thank you so much for stopping by today, I truly appreciate all of you! xo, Ashlina

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How Transform Your IKEA BILLY Bookcase: 25 Chic Hacks for a Restoration Hardware-Inspired Look

As someone who's always been passionate about creating spaces that feel both functional and beautiful, I know how important it is to find storage solutions that seamlessly blend into your home's aesthetic.

Living rooms, in particular, can be tricky when it comes to balancing style and storage. We need that perfect mix of function and flair, but let's be honest—often the storage options out there don’t match our vision for a chic, elevated space.

Enter the IKEA BILLY bookcase. With its simple design, this versatile piece can be easily transformed into something that looks far more expensive than it is—think Restoration Hardware, but without the steep price tag.

If you're like me, you want your home to exude a sense of luxury, even if you’re working with a budget. That’s why I’ve put together this guide, offering creative ways to upgrade, hack, and style your BILLY bookcase to make it look effortlessly stylish and sophisticated. Whether you're looking to add doors, incorporate lighting, or style it with a few personal touches, you'll be amazed at how a few simple upgrades can turn this humble bookcase into a standout feature in your living room.

Let’s dive into how you can elevate your BILLY bookcase into a chic storage solution that’s both practical and stunning.

Upgrades and Hacks: Elevating Your BILLY Bookcase

There’s something truly magical about transforming a simple, everyday item into a statement piece. When it comes to the IKEA BILLY bookcase, what may seem like just a practical storage solution can become an extraordinary focal point in your living room. By making a few thoughtful upgrades and creative tweaks, you can elevate the BILLY from its humble beginnings into a chic and sophisticated feature—something that looks as though it was custom-made just for your space.

As someone who believes that every home should reflect our personal style and aspirations, I’ve found that the beauty is in the details. From adding sleek doors to incorporating lighting that casts a warm glow, each small adjustment can completely change the energy of your room. And the best part? These upgrades don’t require a huge budget, just a little creativity and vision.

Let’s dive into the transformative world of BILLY bookcase hacks, where I’ll show you how to turn this classic piece into a chic, high-end storage solution that feels tailor-made for your home.

1. Add Doors for a Sleek Finish

One of the most popular upgrades is adding doors to your BILLY bookcase. This not only conceals clutter but also gives the bookcase a more polished and cohesive look. You can choose from various door options, such as glass, solid wood, or louvered doors, depending on your style preference.

2. Create a Built-In Look

Transform your BILLY bookcase into a built-in feature by adding crown molding, baseboards, and side panels. This hack gives the bookcase a custom cabinetry appearance without the custom price tag. Ensure to secure the bookcase to the wall and fill any gaps with caulk for a seamless finish. This approach is ideal for creating a library wall or an entertainment center.

3. Incorporate Lighting

Adding LED strip lights or puck lights to your BILLY bookcase can highlight your book collection and decorative items. Opt for motion-sensor or rechargeable lights for convenience and energy efficiency. This simple addition can dramatically enhance the ambiance of your space.

4. Customize with Paint and Trim

Give your BILLY bookcase a unique look by painting it in a color that complements your room's decor. Adding trim or molding can also elevate its appearance, making it look more like a high-end piece of furniture. This customization allows you to match the bookcase to your personal style and the overall aesthetic of your space.

Styling Your BILLY Bookcase: Tips and Ideas to Make It Shine

Now that your BILLY bookcase is upgraded and looking more luxurious, it’s time to style it in a way that reflects your unique personality and elevates your living space. Styling a bookcase isn’t just about books—it’s about creating a visual masterpiece that tells a story. Whether you’re going for a minimalist vibe, a boho chic look, or a more elegant, traditional feel, there’s an art to arranging the items that sit on your shelves.

Here are some thoughtful and inspiring tips to help you style your BILLY bookcase into a statement piece that feels intentional and high-end.

1. Use Backing Paper or Wallpaper for a Bold Statement

One of the quickest ways to transform your BILLY bookcase is by adding some color and pattern to its back panel. This simple yet striking update makes your books and decorative items pop, instantly creating depth and interest. Choose a wallpaper that complements your room’s color scheme or go for something bold and graphic to make a statement. You can also experiment with peel-and-stick wallpaper for easy application and removal, allowing you to change up the look whenever you like.

Tip: For a more sophisticated, Restoration Hardware-inspired look, opt for a deep, moody color like charcoal gray, navy blue, or forest green. These tones will add a rich, elegant backdrop to your decor.

2. Mix Books with Decorative Objects for Balance

While books are a natural choice for filling your shelves, don’t forget to balance them with a variety of decorative objects that bring personality to the space. Think art prints, framed photographs, sculptures, and unique trinkets that tell your story. Play with scale—pair tall, elegant vases with small, curated knick-knacks. Incorporating natural elements like plants, driftwood, or a set of candles will also infuse your bookcase with warmth and texture.

Tip: For an effortlessly chic look, mix books with metallic decor accents such as gold, brass, or silver objects. A few well-placed metallic accents can bring a touch of luxury to your styling.

3. Incorporate Baskets and Decorative Storage for Organization and Texture

One of the secrets to making a stylish bookcase look curated yet practical is incorporating stylish storage. Wicker baskets, fabric bins, or leather boxes are not only perfect for hiding away miscellaneous items, but they also add a layer of texture and interest to the shelves. Choose storage solutions in neutral tones or natural materials to keep the aesthetic cohesive and sophisticated.

Tip: If you want to add a little more flair, opt for baskets or bins in deep jewel tones like emerald or sapphire, which will pop beautifully against a neutral backdrop.

4. Play with Shelf Heights and Layout for Visual Interest

Don’t be afraid to mix up the traditional arrangement of your BILLY bookcase. Adjust the height of the shelves (if possible) to accommodate larger decorative items or create varying levels of interest. You could leave some shelves open for larger pieces of art, while others can be filled with books and smaller decor items. This creates a dynamic flow and keeps your display from feeling too “staged.”

Tip: For a more symmetrical, elegant approach, try grouping similar items together—books in neat rows, framed photos aligned, and decor items arranged in threes or fives (an odd number creates balance and interest).

5. Incorporate Personal Items and Art for a Touch of Personality

A truly chic, luxurious bookcase feels like it’s been thoughtfully curated over time. One way to achieve this is by showcasing personal items that tell your story. Whether it’s a collection of vintage finds, family heirlooms, or travel souvenirs, incorporating these items adds character and depth to your space. Art, too, can be incorporated in small framed prints, sketches, or even a beautiful, oversized artwork leaning against the back of a shelf for a more relaxed, modern look.

Tip: Don’t be afraid to place art directly on the shelves (without frames) or prop it up casually on top of a row of books. This adds a more lived-in, organic feel to your bookcase.

6. Layer Your Shelves for Added Depth

To make your BILLY bookcase feel more sophisticated, create depth by layering your items. You can layer books, vases, and other decor by leaning objects against the back panel of the shelf. This technique creates a visually rich, dynamic display that feels less “arranged” and more artistic.

Tip: Layering doesn’t have to be limited to books. You can use trays to anchor your items or place larger pieces like framed artwork behind smaller objects. This technique makes your shelves feel more like an art gallery, rather than just a place to store things.

7. Lighting: Add a Soft Glow to Elevate the Mood

Lighting is the final touch that can take your BILLY bookcase from functional to fabulous. By adding LED strip lights, puck lights, or even a few strategically placed candles, you can bring an extra layer of warmth and charm to the bookcase. Lighting not only draws attention to the items you’ve carefully arranged but also creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere in your living room.

Tip: If you’re aiming for a luxe, spa-like ambiance, opt for warm, soft white LED lights that mimic the glow of candlelight. This will make your bookcase feel like a serene oasis in your home.

p.s. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I'll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. I am so grateful for your support.

💡 Pro-tip: Grab a FREE 30 Day trial of Amazon Prime to get unlimited free shipping to make shopping super easy – without even leaving home!

25 seriously stunning ikea billy bookcase makeovers

01 | Cane doors for a luxurious upgrade

image and tutorial via House of Hawkes

02 | Office library upgrade with lighting

image and makeover via Life With Leeanne

03 | Emerald green Arched Billy Bookcase Hack

image and tutorial via A Carried Affair

04 | Fireplace mantle built-ins

image and tutorial via place of my taste

05 | Pink arched built in bookcase wall

image and tutorial via @allstylelife

06 | Paint it black

image source

07 | Upgrade with a ladder and molding

image and tutorial via Stylish Revamp

08 | Enhance your kitchen with a billy bookcase island

image and tutorial via Golden Boys and me

09 | Create an extra accessories closet

image via Harlowe James

10 | Double wall green arched library nook

image and tutorial via @rachmartino

11 | Rich brown RH inspired bookcases

image and tutorial via Our Aesthetic Abode

12 | Beige built ins

image and tutorial via @diane.by.the.water

13 | Black and white bookshelf built ins

image and tutorial via My grandparents chair

14 | Corner bookcase

image and tutorial @marieeigen

15 | Curated accessory closet

16 | Curated accessory closet

image and tutorial via The Sommer Home

17 | Beautiful vintage collection display

ikea billy bookcase tutorial via melanie jade

18 | Beautiful vintage collection display

image and tutorial via The Doer and the Dreamer

19 | Wallpaper billy bookcase makeover

image and tutorial via DIY Sweden

20 | Stunning living room bookcase

image via @designsixtynine

21 | Colorful vintage display

This arrangement feels thoughtfully curated, with colorful books, vibrant ceramics, and one-of-a-kind decorative pieces that bring personality to the space. The mix of plants adds a refreshing, organic vibe, while the oversized vases on the top shelf create a striking sense of height and balance.

via @amyvintagedecorium

22 | Beautiful dining room built ins

This IKEA Billy Bookcase hack turns basic shelves into a sophisticated built-in feature with the addition of crown molding. The design effortlessly blends with the room’s architecture, elevating the space with a polished and refined aesthetic. Carefully selected decor, books, and minimalist styling maintain a clean, elegant look.

@_louisechristiansen

23 | Gorgeous green cozy reading nook

@abigailamira

24 | Fill the wall with an indoor jungle bookcase

via @yinslittlegarden

25 | Place the bookcases in your dining room for extra storage

via @firsthouseonfinn

26 | Create colorful cube storage

Alja Horvat

Obsessed with this inspiring makeover:

Styling Your BILLY Bookcase

Styling your BILLY bookcase isn’t just about organizing your books—it’s about creating a piece that speaks to your taste, adds character to your room, and brings your space to life. With these tips, you can transform your bookcase into a high-end, chic storage solution that reflects your personal style and makes your living room feel more inviting and polished.

Whether you decide to go bold with patterns and colors or keep it subtle with elegant, timeless pieces, remember: the key to a truly styled bookcase is balance, texture, and layers. Have fun with the process and let your creativity shine.

FAQ: The IKEA BILLY Bookcase Makeover

The IKEA BILLY bookcase has been a favorite among DIY enthusiasts and home decorators for years due to its simple design, affordability, and potential for customization. Over time, many have turned this basic bookcase into a stunning, personalized piece of furniture that can fit any room’s aesthetic. Here are some frequently asked questions about how to elevate your own BILLY bookcase and make it look high-end.

1. What makes the IKEA BILLY bookcase so popular for makeovers?

The IKEA BILLY bookcase is beloved because of its simple and versatile design, making it the perfect starting point for DIY upgrades and makeovers. It’s budget-friendly, easy to assemble, and adaptable to a variety of styles. With a few tweaks, it can look custom-made, whether you’re adding doors, molding, or lighting. Plus, it’s available in different sizes, so it can fit into virtually any space.

2. Can I add doors to my IKEA BILLY bookcase?

Absolutely! Adding doors to your BILLY bookcase is one of the most popular upgrades, and it’s relatively easy to do. IKEA even offers a variety of door options, such as glass, solid wood, or louvered styles, so you can choose the one that best fits your aesthetic. Adding doors not only elevates the look but also helps to keep items inside neatly tucked away, giving your space a more refined, organized feel.

Pro tip: For a more luxurious finish, opt for glass doors with a brass or black frame, which can give your bookcase a more custom, high-end look.

3. How can I make my BILLY bookcase look like a custom built-in?

You can achieve the look of a custom built-in by adding trim, crown molding, and baseboards to your BILLY bookcase. These additions help give it a more polished and integrated look, making it feel like part of the room’s architecture. You can also secure the bookcase to the wall and fill any gaps with caulk for a seamless finish.

Pro tip: For extra impact, paint the trim to match the color of your walls, or use a contrasting color to make the bookcase pop.

4. What are some creative ways to style the BILLY bookcase once it’s upgraded?

Once your BILLY bookcase has been upgraded, it’s time to style it! Consider using a mix of books and decorative items, such as sculptures, plants, framed photos, or candles, to create visual interest. Don’t forget to incorporate some decorative storage boxes or baskets for a chic, organized look. Adding lighting—whether it’s LED strips or puck lights—can also enhance the overall effect, especially if you want to highlight artwork or books.

Pro tip: Use patterned wallpaper or paint the back panel of the bookcase for added drama. This simple change can make your bookcase look like a custom design.

5. Is it possible to add lighting to my BILLY bookcase?

Yes! Adding lighting to your BILLY bookcase can completely transform its look and feel. LED strip lights, puck lights, or even string lights can be easily installed to highlight books and decorative objects. Consider placing them along the top or bottom of the shelves, or using spotlights to draw attention to specific items.

Pro tip: For a more luxurious feel, choose soft white LED lights for a warm, inviting glow. A lighted bookcase can also act as ambient lighting in your living room.

6. What’s the best way to personalize my BILLY bookcase on a budget?

Personalizing your BILLY bookcase doesn’t have to be expensive. Simple upgrades like changing the knobs or handles on the doors, adding custom paint or wallpaper to the back panel, and incorporating decorative accessories can give it a unique touch without breaking the bank. You can also use creative styling techniques, like arranging books by color or size, to make your bookcase feel one-of-a-kind.

Pro tip: Look for budget-friendly DIY projects, like adding leather or fabric to the shelves, to give it a more refined, high-end appearance.

7. Can I use the BILLY bookcase in small spaces?

Yes! The BILLY bookcase comes in a variety of sizes, making it easy to fit into small spaces. You can choose a slim, tall bookcase for narrow walls or opt for a shorter version if you’re working with lower ceilings or want a more compact storage solution. The versatility of the BILLY bookcase allows you to maximize vertical space, making it perfect for apartments or smaller homes.

Pro tip: If you’re tight on space, try turning your BILLY bookcase sideways to create a low media console or storage unit.

8. How do I make sure my upgraded BILLY bookcase looks cohesive with my room’s decor?

To ensure that your upgraded BILLY bookcase blends seamlessly with your room’s decor, focus on the color palette and the materials you choose. Whether you go for a minimalist, modern look with neutral tones or a more bohemian vibe with warm wood finishes, make sure the design complements the rest of your furniture. If your room has a more traditional style, consider using wood paneling and adding ornate details. For a more contemporary vibe, sleek metal handles and glass doors can create a refined, high-end look.

Pro tip: When styling the bookcase, incorporate elements from the rest of the room, such as matching colors or textures, to make it feel like part of the larger design.

9. How can I ensure my BILLY bookcase is stable and secure?

To keep your BILLY bookcase stable, it’s important to secure it to the wall, especially if it’s been customized with extra weight or decorative items. IKEA includes wall brackets with the BILLY bookcase for safety, which is especially important in homes with children or pets. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully and check the stability of the bookcase regularly.

Pro tip: If you’re stacking multiple BILLY bookcases, securing them together for added stability is a good idea, particularly if they’re going to be taller.

10. What are the most common mistakes to avoid when upgrading a BILLY bookcase?

While upgrading your BILLY bookcase can be a fun and rewarding DIY project, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:

• Overcrowding the shelves: Less is often more when it comes to styling. Avoid cramming too many items onto the shelves, which can make the bookcase look cluttered.

• Neglecting the details: Small upgrades, like adding trim or choosing the right handles, can make a huge difference in how high-end the bookcase looks.

• Ignoring wall safety: Always secure the bookcase to the wall, especially if it’s been heavily customized or is top-heavy.

Pro tip: Take your time with each upgrade and style the bookcase with purpose. Make sure every change aligns with your room’s overall design.