The Most Underrated Home Décor Items That Make a Big Impact

When we think about home decor, our minds often go to large statement pieces like couches, rugs, or accent walls. But it’s often the smallest, most underrated items that give a home its charm and polish. These are the subtle elements that pull everything together, make your home feel complete, and often go unnoticed—until they’re gone. Today, we’re giving credit where it’s due and shining a spotlight on the most underrated home decor items that can truly transform your space.

1. Decorative Trays

A simple tray on your coffee table, dresser, or entryway console can elevate the entire area. Use them to group items like candles, books, remotes, or even perfume bottles. They bring structure to clutter and can add a touch of elegance or texture depending on the material—think marble, rattan, or brushed metal.

Where to use them:

Living room coffee table
Bathroom vanity
Kitchen counter for oils and spices

2. Lighting Beyond Overheads

Overhead lights do the job, but lamps and wall sconces are where the real magic happens. Floor lamps with personality, table lamps with unique bases, and even puck lights under cabinets can change the entire mood of a room.

Tip: Mix warm lighting sources at different levels for a cozy, inviting glow.

3. Switch Plates and Outlet Covers

Hear us out—when was the last time you looked at your light switch covers? These tiny squares are on every wall and are often overlooked. Swapping builder-grade plastic for something like brushed brass, matte black, or even a fun patterned cover can make an instant design statement.

4. Decorative Hooks and Hardware

From the knobs on your dresser to the hooks on your entry wall, hardware is the jewelry of your home. Swapping in stylish, sturdy options adds detail and intentionality that elevates even the simplest furniture or empty walls.

5. Books and Bookends

Not just for reading—books are brilliant visual decor. Stack them under a candle, display them with decorative bookmarks, or place them on floating shelves with bold bookends. Coffee table books with beautiful covers can serve as conversation starters and mood-setters.

6. Accent Towels

Kitchen and bathroom hand towels aren’t just functional—they’re style statements. A thoughtfully chosen towel with a pop of color, texture, or seasonal design can make even a small powder room feel decorated and intentional.

7. Plant Pots and Planter Stands

Even if you already use greenery, the containers you put them in deserve attention. Swapping out mismatched plastic pots for sleek ceramics, woven baskets, or colorful planters can bring unity and sophistication to your space.

8. Candles (Even Unlit Ones)

Candles aren’t just for fragrance—they add warmth and softness to any vignette. Go for sculptural or colored candles that double as decor even when they’re not burning.

9. Curtain Tiebacks

Curtains are usually the focus, but curtain tiebacks are the sleeper hit. Whether it’s a knotted rope, a magnetic clasp, or a vintage brass hook, a unique tieback adds depth and drama to your window treatments.

10. Decorative Bowls or Catch-Alls

Whether it’s on a coffee table, bedside table, or entryway console, a beautiful bowl is the perfect functional accent. Use it to hold keys, jewelry, matches, or nothing at all—just its presence adds style.

How to Spot the Small Details That Make Your Home Pop

The key is to think layered and lived-in, not staged. Here’s how to uncover those magic details:

Look at your “functional” items

Start with what you already use daily: soap dispensers, tissue boxes, coasters, utensil holders. These are often eyesores by default—upgrade them to stylish versions.

Mix finishes and textures

Combining matte, gloss, metal, wood, and fabric in small touches creates visual interest, especially in neutral spaces.

Pay attention to the spaces between the statement pieces

Do your walls feel empty? Could your tabletop use a little structure? These “in-between” zones are where small decor items shine.

Shop with a theme in mind

If you’re browsing online or in-store, keep your room’s theme or color palette in mind. Look for subtle, coordinating items that fit—but don’t overpower—your design.

Final Thoughts

The most memorable spaces aren’t filled with expensive furniture—they’re full of thoughtfulness. The little touches show that you care about the space you live in, and that makes a bigger impact than any oversized sectional ever could. So next time you’re decorating (or redecorating), give some love to the underrated heroes of home decor. You might be surprised at how big of a difference the small stuff makes.