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how to: add style to your home

Is your home just crying for a makeover? Whether you're looking to do a total redecorating job, need help merging your styles, or just want to give a room a little pick-me-up, you're in the right place with our expert decorating advice. Choosing your decor style can be tricky territory for newlyweds, especially if you've never lived together and your home styles aren't entirely in sync. But even if you've been sharing your space for a while, choosing your decor style means incorporating both of your needs. So where to begin? If you're starting from scratch or looking to redecorate, you need to think big. Luckily, we've got expert decorating advice on key rooms, from 5 tips for a luxurious living room to 6 secrets for a sexy bedroom. Have a question about more specific home styles? You'll find stylish solutions to all your questions, from best bedding options to doing over your bathroom. Or do you just want ideas for easy (and inexpensive!) decor fixes? Spice up your living space with our tips on budget bedroom makeovers, easy decor tricks, and displaying photos and art. We've also tracked down fabulous decor finds to suit all different home styles, including shabby-chic favorites, decor picks on a budget, and colorful kitchen accents. And check out style how-tos on everything from dressing up your mantel and arranging your coffee table with flair to creating beautiful blooming arrangements and using feng shui. With our expert decorating advice, choosing your decor style is simple.

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How to Decorate with Trays

Trays? As a decor item? Totally. Throw one on top of just about anything, and you've got a layered, well-decorated look. Here are a few ways to make it work in your home.

Photo: Mark Lund / The Nest

Pair with an ottoman

On top of an ottoman, a tray can actually make a really great coffee or side table. In addition to making things easier on you -- both coffee and side tables can be expensive and incredibly hard to find -- it’s a way modern look. Plus, when company comes, just pick up the tray for instant extra seating!

Accessorize
Tons of things look great paired on trays: candles, stacks of books, sculptures, etc. Not only does the tray protect whatever surface it’s covering, but it adds an extra element of interest. Trays are also great surfaces to rest drinks on -- they may even help you be a little less compulsive about the whole coaster and watermark issue!

Now, learn how to decorate with photography.

Nestpert: Grayson Handy, co-owner and creative director of Prudence Designs and Events and author of the new book Flowers for the Home: Inspirations from the World Over

-- Paula Kashtan