When it comes to home decor, even the smallest decisions can have a lasting impact. From material choices to lighting, the elements that define a space are often the most personal, and therefore the most powerful.
In a recent feature by The Local Project, New York-based interior designer Josh Greene opens the doors of his home to share the features that elevate a house from ordinary to exceptional. His approach to room decor is thoughtful and refined, grounded in both aesthetic clarity and practical insight.
Inspired by Greene’s reflections, this blog explores six standout ideas that can bring personality and depth to any interior.
Experiment with stone
Stone is one of the most expressive materials in home decor. It introduces a sense of permanence that makes any space feel grounded and intentional. It brings natural texture, weight, and subtle colour variation that instantly elevates a space. Josh Greene encourages experimenting with different stones and not just in kitchens or bathrooms, but across all kinds of furniture. Think of a marble coffee table beside a warmer travertine cocktail table (discover the difference between marble and travertine in our previous blog). Combining close tones can add contrast without overwhelming the room. It’s less about matching and more about creating a layered, collected look.
Left image: Geometric marble coffee table sold by Interiors Curated on Bazaa
Right image: Travertine cocktail table sold by The Retrospective Edit on Bazaa
Right-sized rugs
Rugs are one of the most impactful (and often overlooked) elements of room decor. And as Josh Greene suggests, when it comes to carpets, scale is everything. A well-sized rug makes the setup of the room feel intentional. In interior design, often you start with the rug and let the rest of the layout build around it. Too small and the room feels disjointed; too big and you lose definition. Whether it’s a round carpet softening a corner, an area rug keeping the room together, or a hallway runner adding rhythm to transitional spaces, carpets help define zones and create flow. They're also a great way to layer colour, texture, and warmth into a space without overwhelming it.
Left image: Nanimarquina Tres Vegetal 4x3m rug sold by private seller on Bazaa
Right image: Large vintage Persian handwoven hallway runner sold by Orient House on Bazaa
Elevated lighting
Lighting should do more than just illuminate, it should shape the atmosphere of a room. Greene emphasizes the importance of layering light sources: it’s not just about recessed ceiling spots! A mix of pendant lighting, chandeliers, floor lamps, and table lamps adds visual depth and flexibility (start from our lamp selection here). Decorative lighting, especially vintage or handmade pieces, can double as functional sculpture, turning everyday moments into design statements. The key is balance: use dimmers, vary the height and direction of your light sources, and consider how they interact with materials and colours in the room.
Left image: Large empire-style basket chandelier sold by Manor on George on Bazaa
Right image: AVA table lamp sold by Rubble Workshop on Bazaa
Bespoke upholstery
Upholstery is where functionality meets expression. For Greene, fabric is one of the most powerful ways to personalise a space: adding depth, texture, and tone. While second-hand furniture is often seen as non-customisable, upholstery flips that narrative. It offers a way to honour the durability and craftsmanship of vintage pieces while making them entirely your own. A well-built retro sofa or vintage armchair can be reupholstered in the fabric and colour of your choice, allowing you to tailor it precisely to your space and taste. Whether it’s bold velvet or an unexpected pattern, the result is a second-hand sofa that feels both unique and intentional. Sustainable, but without compromise.
Left image: Custom large curved modular sofa sold by Mood Objects on Bazaa
Right image: Mid-Century armchairs – restored & to be reupholstered sold by The Artz Collection on Bazaa
Bold wall coverings
Walls are one of the most overlooked design opportunities in a home. Greene suggests using cool wallpapers or textured finishes to add personality, especially in transitional spaces like hallways or entryways. A fun wallpaper, think graphic prints or a pink wallpaper in a powder room, can completely shift the energy of a room and make it memorable. The key is balance: mix bolder choices with quieter surfaces in adjacent rooms to keep things dynamic without overwhelming. And don't shy away from layering: wall art can still live beautifully over patterned walls, creating a richer visual language.
Left image: 1960s wallpaper – Autumn Trees sold by Flashback Living on Bazaa
Right image: 1960s wallpaper – Pastel Flowers sold by Flashback Living on Bazaa
Making a house stand out isn’t about following trends, it’s about curating spaces with intention. Whether it’s a sleek marble coffee table in the dining room, a reupholstered vintage sofa in the lounge, or a hallway runner that ties everything together, the difference lies in thoughtful home decor choices. From sculptural pendant lighting to bold wallpaper, every detail contributes to a room that feels layered, personal, and complete.
At Bazaa you can find second-hand and vintage homewares that offer more than just character: they bring history, craftsmanship, and individuality into your space. Explore the potential of unique, pre-loved pieces to create a home that feels truly yours and if you’re looking for more ideas read our blog for another 5 insider tips to elevate your space.