Moving Into Your First Place? Don't Forget These Decor Essentials

When you think about decorating a room, lighting isn't usually the first thing that comes to mind. But interior designers know that lighting sets the mood for any space. Even if your new home has ceiling lighting, you'll want to pick up a few table lamps. They cast a gentler glow than overhead lighting, creating a cozier vibe. This Lalia Home Marbleized Table Lamp ($80) is a versatile choice that works in traditional and modern rooms alike; add a warm white LED bulb to make a space feel instantly inviting.

Want to know the fastest way to pull a room together? Add a rug. Generally, you'll want to fill as much floor space as your budget allows. Since this is your first home, look for a well-priced, low-maintenance option such as this Surya Colin Washable Rug ($171). It has the look of an expensive silk rug, but it's far easier to care for — and because it has a variety of neutral tones, it'll work with lots of different colors among your furniture and other decor.

If you're renting, your landlord probably won't let you paint the walls. That doesn't mean you have to live without your favorite colors, though. Add them with textiles such as drapery, bedding, and throws. This Verloop Sunrise Sunset Throw Blanket ($160) has a fun, bright ombre palette, and its plush texture is so cozy. And when you feel like your room needs a new hue, change is as simple as swapping it for a different blanket. (Much easier than hauling out paint cans.)

To add even more color to a room, place two of these Dusty Blue Taper Candles ($16) in a set of candlesticks. Instant elegance.

You certainly could decorate your space without a tray, but you really should consider one. Here's an example of a beautiful and functional way to dress up a desk, console table, or dining space. Use it to display treasures, to serve drinks, or as a stylish catch-all. This John Derian Mixed Tones Tray ($65) features daubs of color (it'll go with everything) and is made of sturdy melamine — so you won't have to be precious about actually using it.

If you aren't one to meticulously style a room, make it easy on yourself with an all-in-one kit. The frame, vases, and try in this five-piece Dexton Accessory Set ($111) look right with each other — which means you can spend less time tracking down items and more time just enjoying your space.

If you want to make a small space feel more spacious, just add a large mirror. Not only is a mirror functional for all-important outfit checks, it also reflects light and "opens up" a room. This Ferm Living Large Pond Mirror ($435) is a worthy investment due to its size and interesting silhouette.

Clutter has a way of spreading unless it's contained. Keep yours under control by investing in storage solutions that double as decor. Take this Parrish Natural/Blue Basket Set ($50), for instance. The baskets are attractive enough to leave out on display, and you can stash random stuff — the TV remote, the magazine issues you've been meaning to catch up on, etc. — in them in seconds.

Collecting art is typically a long-term project, but your walls need something ASAP. Fortunately, you can adorn your space quickly and add to your collection as time goes on. If you're creative, try your hand at painting or photography — or buy a print from a local artist. If you're into vintage imagery, head to the Library of Congress, which has hundreds of free downloadable photographs that you can print and frame. And of course, don't discount the value of a beautiful coffee table book. This eye-catching Faith Ringgold ($50) catalog looks stunning on display, and its contents will inspire you to keep filling your home with things that inspire you.