Practical Matters BridalGuide

In his latest collection for Target, Michael Graves turns ordinary objects into chic accessories for your home.

By: Aimée Morgan

Michael Recommends:

• Choose neutral colors for larger pieces of furniture; change accessories like lamps, vases and wall art seasonally.

• Invest in multifunctional pieces: a storage ottoman to hold extra bedding or a drop-leaf kitchen cart for prep space and storage.

• Hang decorative shelving for books and collectibles. It tidies up your living space and creates art out of personal items.

• If you have the basic necessities for your home, consider registeringfor a nontraditional item like a digital camera, TV or new stereoequipment.

You’ve been designing home decor and housewares for Target for ten years. What can we look forward to this season?

This year, form, function and affordability are at the top of everyone’s list. We don’t compromise our designs because of price, but instead find alternative solutions. My background in architecture also shapes the development of my lines. I’m particularly excited about our new closet organization pieces and cleaning accessories. Each item is functional andgood-looking. For instance, our new wooden hangers feature an innovative rubberized insert at the shoulder, which prevents clothing from shifting or slipping off. And all of my new cleaning tools, from the dustpan set to the liquid soap dispenser, are attractive enough to store outside the broom closet.

Any tips for the bride and groom about combining their belongings and styles?

Start by finding common ground, then commit to compromise. Each of you should look through decorating magazines, websites and blogs and collect images that you like. Compare photos and search for similarities. It may be a color palette, a furniture style or certain textures and patterns that appeal to both of you. For example, you may find that you’re both attracted to a blue, calming color scheme or furniture with clean, modern lines. Slowly build on these shared preferences to find your combined style.

What is your advice on the easiest way to update a room?

The quickest and least expensive way to give a room an instant makeover is by adding a fresh coat of paint to the walls, rearranging the furniture and changing such accessories as throw pillows and rugs. Invest in table and floor lamps, which will create a soft ambience that instantly warms up a room. One rule for hanging art: Place it at or near eye level. In this way, the viewer is drawn into the scene. It is always my goal to have people experience a room rather than just pass through it.

Haute Accessories

Stainless steel 2-quart teakettle, programmable drip coffeemaker, dish-drying rack, 4-slice toaster with separate heat controls, triple laundry bin. All products by Micahel Graves Designs for Target.