Elegant Home Accents

Q: What enticed you to cross over from interior design to home décor?
A: In my work as an interior designer, I often found myself searching to little avail for chic, inexpensive accent pieces. Creating those accessories myself was a natural step to take. My collaboration with Target is perfect, because they believe that good design should be available at all price points. I never have to compromise my style when designing for them; together, we can reach a broad audience looking for great items for the home.

Q: Your “Perfect Pieces” line has a tremendous range of products. Where do you find your inspiration?
A: I have always been influenced by the natural textures and strong silhouettes of America’s classic farm homes; in particular, I find the shape of the house as a whole and the distinct roofline to be the most interesting aspects. These elements have encouraged me to use similar linear shapes to create clean, functional pieces—everything from end tables and lamp bases to pillows. I wanted them all to feel relaxed and traditional yet fresh and contemporary for the modern couple. I especially love the graphics on the throw pillows. They are a great way to add interest and color to a room inexpensively and almost effortlessly.

Q: What advice do you have for couples embarking on the sometimes overwhelming registry process?
A: Above all, be sure to address what you need for your entire home. Many couples make the mistake of registering for china and kitchen appliances only. Consider each room in your home individually, and figure out what is aesthetically pleasing to the two of you. Then register for those items that will help you achieve that look. Simplicity of space and light have always been key to my point of view, and usually I find that the introduction of one or two new components can dramatically change a room. Ideally, this should include accents, like art or an interesting mirror to hang on your walls or a gorgeous tabletop object for your entryway.

Q: What is your favorite wedding gift to give to family and friends?
A: I always like to give a beautiful, vibrant vase. My hope is that this will encourage the couple to keep fresh flowers, especially those found locally or seasonally, in the house on a daily basis. Even without a bouquet, though, a lovely vase is a great touch and adds a splash of color to any room.

TIMELESS TOKENS From the Victorial Hagan Perfect Pieces collection for Target, Joanna pillows, Claudia vase, Belle bookends and Jackson side table (left); Jackson book table, Amy table lamp and Chloe embroidered pillow (middle); and Marianne lamp, Flower Head framed wall art and ceramic white dove (right). For more information, visit Target.com. Photography: Courtesy of Target.

Victoria’s Secrets

• Choose neutral colors and styles for items like your couch and tables. Use accessories to add personality. It’s much easier and less expensive to switch lampshades or add throw pillows to the sofa than it is to bring in new furniture every time you want a different look.
• To freshen up a room, add a plant, votives or
  a centerpiece bowl, arranged with seasonal fruit, to your tables. These small additions make nice focal points at little cost or commitment.
• Think of your living space as a blank canvas and fill it with colors, styles and accessories that you both agree on. Cream and white create a great base palette that can be easily updated as your taste changes.