The finishing touch. Your personal stamp. Decorative accessories are referred to in a number of ways, but the bottom line is this: They are indisputably the heart and soul of any room. It doesn't matter whether the objects are simple or sophisticated, old or new. What does matter is that they mean a lot to you. There's more to it, however, than simply setting out your cherished objects; it's equally important to display them in the very best light.

Start by grouping collectibles for greater impact. You might, for instance, amass brass candlesticks, of varied heights, ona sideboard or table to create instantaneous drama. Get personal, too. Propped with personal treasures, a table becomes a gallery to be seen and saved by others. And it will be most appealing if it includes at least one element of surprise. Finally, have fun. There's nothing like a bit of levity to relax a too-studied room.

Tablescaping Tips:

Without a doubt, the most popular place to assemble accessories is atop a table, be it a small accent table or a wide sideboard. When it comes to tablescaping your personal treasures, though, be sure to consider these pointers:

1. Think of your table as an empty canvas on which interesting shapes, colors, and textures will be applied. Place low objects toward the front of your setting and tall ones toward the back. Then, once you're satisfied with your still life, accent it with a favorite lamp, a vase of flowers, even a leafy green plant.
2. Accessories need not be grouped according to their value. A $2 "find" can be right at home next to a $500 lamp, as long as they're visually compatible. But, if you're unsure of what goes together, keep in mind that color is a good starting point. If the colors or your accessories blend or match, you can be assured of a harmonious collection.
3. Arrange your objects in uneven numbers, such as threes, fives, and sevens. This approach keeps the eye from visually dividing your collection into two smaller groupings.
4. If you choose a one-color theme, your accessories' common denominator is evident. If, though, you prefer a multicolor approach, be sure to restrict it to a few select hues. It's hard to go wrong when you carefully limit your colors.
5. Be sure to consider texture, too. You can diversify your arrangement by mixing shiny metals with woven, glass, and other metal items. This is especially important if your items are all of the same hue.
6. Don't hesitate to change and rearrange your accessories from time to time. If, however, you have a tablescape that you're particularly pleased with, don't chance forgetting the original arrangement; instead, document it with a snapshot. Then keep the photograph close at hand and , if you need to dismantle the grouping for any reason-whether you're moving or simply doing spring cleaning-you can quickly reassemble it.
7. Don't overlook often neglected spaces, either. In a stairway, for instance, embellish a handrail with oversized tassels.