It's Giving ... Finished: The Final Layers That Make a Room Pop

Have you ever walked into a space and it just feels "off"? Yet, there is furniture, art, and decor. You can't seem to put a finger on why? This is more common than you know! Many people design or decorate their space, but it still feels like something is missing. It's not necessarily about buying more to get that "finished" feeling, but rather finding the right pieces and being intentional. Here are 4 tips for getting that finished design you're hoping for!

Layered Lighting

Lighting is everything. If you're relying on recessed lighting alone, I hate to break it to you, but you're never going to get the cozy, cohesive vibe your going for. Layering lighting not only adds dimension and depth to a room but also makes it more functional.

So how do you do this? Consider adding table lamps, floor lamps, wall/picture sconces, and a ceiling fixture(s). I recommend using at least three sources of light at different heights to achieve that finished feeling. (Bonus points if your ceiling light and/or recessed lights are dimmable!).

Bonus tip: Stick with 2700K lightbulbs. They emit a warm, inviting glow that flatters your space.

Bryce Living Area || Design: Chelsey Hartnett Design || Photography: Becca Lea Photography

Properly Scaled Rugs

It's me, hi. I'm the problem; it's me.

(Me being your area rug.)

If you think your area rug is too small, it unfortunately probably is. Rug size is one of the most common design mistakes I see. A rug that's too small makes a space feel disconnected, small, and underwhelming.

Different rooms will have different requirements when it comes to rug size; here are a couple of room-specific examples:

Living Room: At a minimum, the front legs of all the furniture pieces should sit on the rug. All legs can, however, consistency is key here. Leave ~12" between rug edge and wall (8" for smaller spaces and up to 18" for larger).

Bedroom: A rug should sit under the bottom two-thirds of the bed and extend at least 24" on all three sides.

Nursery: Anchor the crib or glider with a rug large enough to define the space.

Bonus tip: If you have a rug that you adore but is too small for the space, consider layering it over a larger jute or flatweave base for a budget-friendly fix that adds additional texture.

Bryce Living Area || Design: Chelsey Hartnett Design || Photography: Becca Lea Photography

Thoughtful Styling

Styling is the breath of life in a room. It's what makes the space feel lived in, not just "done". It tells a story, your story, without adding clutter. Choose pieces that bring joy or utility (ideally both!); that's when styling feels personal.

How to do it:

• Mix of items: books, trays, greenery, vases, ceramics, coasters, bowls

• Use varying textures, heights, and finishes (wood, marble, linen, metal)

• Group items in odd numbers (3s is always a go-to!)

  
  

Bonus Tip: Use games as decor! Tic-tac-toe, Connect Four, or card sets can double as beautiful and functional accessories.

Bryce Dining Area || Design: Chelsey Hartnett Design || Photography: Becca Lea Photography

Window Treatments

One of the most overlooked yet game-changing elements in finishing a space. A room without them often feels bare-boned and a bit sterile. Beyond the function aspect (hello, privacy and light control), window treatments add softness or structure, frame the space, and add height.

What to consider:

• Hang high and wide: Mount your rods closer to the ceiling and extend them beyond the window frame to give the illusion of larger windows and higher ceilings.

• Choose the right length: panels should "kiss" the floor (say NO to short drapery panels).

• Think texture: Texture plays a huge role. Linen brings elevated casual, where velvet adds a dramatic touch.

• Layering: Combine drapery with roman blinds for added visual interest, but also functionality.

  
  

Bonus Tip: If you're renting or working with a tight budget, pre-fab panels with custom pleating tape or clip rings can help achieve that elevated look.

Bryce Living Area || Design: Chelsey Hartnett Design || Photography: Becca Lea Photography

Adding more doesn't necessarily make a room feel finished - being intentional does. If your space feels flat, disconnected, or just not quite right, start with these four elements. You'll be surprised how these changes can shift the entire feel of the room without replacing a single piece of furniture.

Need help achieving that "finished" feeling?

Whether you’re styling a nursery, refreshing a living room, or just trying to love your home a little more — I’d love to help.