To begin pick a dominating object, something like a Persian rug for example, that is a quality piece. Since the mind tends to assume then that the quality exists throughout. Then use other aspects of the room to draw attention to it, such as identical colors in curtains and chairs. Use no more than two dominant colors. In a refined house sumptuosness is in the details–details such as fringes, braiding, ropes, tassels, hardware and curtains spilling over onto the floor by 2 to 4″. A professionally painted wall, called “trompe l’oeil”, is a mural that tricks the eye believe there is dimension on a flat surface.
Wealthy homes often house mementos that reflect the leisure pursuits of its owners–travel, games, outdoor sports, gardening, entertaining, intellectual pursuits and collections. Collections are often displayed framed or mounted in one place. Encyclopedias lining shelves and art books are typical. Signs of entertaining would include a fully stocked dining area, a handsome serving tray or tea cart with China tea service, an espresso machine, cloth napkins and some crystal. Feeling spoiled yet?
In the backyard patio a fence or...