Selecting accessories

1. Read and translate the text. What is the main idea of the text?

2. Find unknown terms and words in the text and give their translations?

When determining what accessories are suitable for a particular space, consider a wide range of possibilities. Reviewing an outline of numerous items often sparks an idea of the accessory or accessories that tie an entire grouping together.

The accessories may be utilitarian or displayed for aes­thetic pleasure. The items may be incorporated into the scheme to enhance the background or they may function pri­marily as a point of interest. The principles and elements of design must always be used. For example, the item must be suitable in texture, colour, and form to the style, background, and other accessories and furnishings in the room. The item should be in scale with the other furnishings and the space allocated. The accessory should help to bring balance and harmony to the room.

Accessories can either be authentic to a certain historic style or mixed to support a variety of styles. The latter ap­proach is often considered more creative. Accessories can also support the architectural background. For example, an informal arrangement of flowers in a basket enhances a rus­tic wood wall, and an elegant porcelain vase enhances a for­mal French panelled wall.

Designers often play an important role in selecting acces­sories for commercial and institutional spaces. The previous guidelines should be followed, but the art and accessories should be placed so as not to interfere with the function of the facility. Usually, commercial spaces do not incorporate personal items except in private offices, however, accessories in public areas do reflect the corporation's image and character. Adding art and accessories to a commercial setting can give an inviting and warm character. Often the designer is limited in purchasing fine-quality items for the commercial setting because of budget restrictions and the possibility of theft. Obtaining accessories that project an aesthetic appeal and that will last through the years are additional challenges. Such items as plants and artwork – usually large in scale – are often chosen for schools, offices, hospitals, libraries, hotels, retail stores restaurants, and other public settings. Also, accessories that relate to the function of the facility itself can add character to the space. For example, prints in a restaurant might pertain to the history or theme of the establishment. All accessories selected for the commercial setting should enhance the environment and humanize the space.

Textiles enhance both residential and commercial interiors. They are probably more versatile than any other element used for interior design. Textiles are pliable: they can be sewn, draped, bent, folded, wrapped, pleated, gathered, and stretched. Textiles are used in every room for upholstery, window treatments, slipcovers, pillows and cushions, bedspreads, blankets and throws, towels, table linens, wall coverings, ceiling coverings, lamp shades, and trim.

There are sev­eral basic considerations in the selection of interior materi­als: function, aesthetics, and economics. One of the primary purposes of textiles, however, is to humanize living spaces. Textiles provide a transition between architecture and furni­ture, and bring comfort, warmth, and softness to homes and public places.

3. Make up a plan of the text in the form of questions.

4. Ask your groupmates to find answers in the text.

5. Discuss the content of the text in the form of a dialogue.