Set a dramatic stage. To prevent a really dark room, use different materials of tone-on-tone dark colors like this black table, blue chairs and blue glass-door cabinet. Bits of gold, ocher and cognac make it pop. A tall velvet curtain, plush side-by-side rugs, grouped spotlight-style lamps and eye-catching cutlery are extravagant combinations that make an impression, too.

Think mixed richness. Bohemian structures, predominantly darker shades and stains of woods in gray, black, pine and bamboo (mixed with a bit of lighter oak). Brass details. Quilted or felt textures. Glass. Deep colors rule the tone-on-tone look with a lot of greens and blues. A splash of yellow or pink injects some lightness.

Lighten with cozy decadence. Lift darker walls and furniture pieces with softer contrasts in colors and materials, especially textiles. “Break up the look while keeping it tied together by mixing in a few matching patterns. Don’t be afraid to pair abstracts with solids, stripes or nature-inspired patterns. Just stay within one or two color families.

Curate your "gallery of me." Collect things that make you happy or proud. Show them off in a dedicated spot. For stuff you want to hide but have accessible, store it in boxes or closed cabinets. Try to use the same family of color tones here, too, whether it’s on books, photos, frames, vases, whatever. And add in a few unexpected elements for effect in your show.