…something that makes you incredibly happy, says interiors expert Ali Heath. To find out what exactly that is, she talked to four creatives to discover the piece they can’t be without.

“Adding the layers to a home to reflect your style and personality is what adds the magic, and transforms a house into your unique space. I hope these favourite inclusions from a few admired creatives might inspire you, too. All consider function alongside form, but ultimately, it’s the art of styling that brings them to life.”

“We consider natural rugs an essential element to a well-layered room, adding depth and warmth to any interior. The beauty of a natural rug is that it will work with every scheme, every room, and for every purpose.

A natural rug will add comfort underfoot and interesting texture, but without the drama of a highly patterned option. They’re brilliant in high-traffic areas, like entryways and hallways, thanks to their hard-working, low-maintenance fibres.

My top tip when purchasing a rug is to size up. It needs to feel generous and proportional within the space, to define the area it covers in a purposeful way.”
emmamilne.co.uk; @emmamilneinteriors

“My first thought was every home needs a lurcher! But as we sell antiques and homeware, not puppies, these oak plinths are also a must for me at home. More versatile than tables, they are perfect to display an urn or a larger vase with flowers. You can elevate an otherwise uninterrupted wall or corner with an artwork, floral display or even a small lamp.

Small, refined touches, like these, make all the difference to a home. A plinth, like this, beautifully crafted in antique pine, can be tailor-made to your dimensions. I love the subtle lime-wash finish – it’s calm and gentle – but a solid paint colour can work equally well.”
maisonartefact.com; @maisonartefact

“For us, lighting is hugely important, and we are big fans of layering.

Avoid down lights, apart from in kitchens and bathrooms, and install multiple circuits to adjust the mood. In kitchens, we use wall lights, and decorative lamps on islands and countertops to soften hard finishes, and heighten the cosiness. And, for soothing bath times, wall lights by a mirror, and low-level, above-skirting lighting adds a sense of calm. Mix high- and low-level choices in bedrooms and living spaces to create atmosphere. Lamps placed on behind-sofa console tables look great – install with 5-amp plugs, and they can be operated from a light switch for ease.

Lantern-style pendants look beautiful in hallways and throw out light for a welcoming return home.”

pringleandpringle.co.uk; @pringleandpringle

“In every HÁM project – and in my own home – art is key. From paintings to reclaimed signs and decorative objects, these pieces transform spaces into engaging and full-of-personality homes. Adding art brings depth and colour, making each room visually appealing.

Our framing choice often ties the whole look together, adding significant visual interest. This approach ensures that every space is unique, and each piece carries its own story.”
haminteriors.com; @haminteriors

Ali Heath is an interiors expert – journalist, stylist, creative consultant and interior designer. Her book, “CREATE: At Home With Old & New” (Mitchell Beazley), is out now.