What We Reach for When a Space Feels “Empty”

It’s not about adding more. It’s about choosing right.

You know that moment- when the furniture’s in, the walls are done, and everything technically should feel complete… but it doesn’t? There’s something off. The space feels a bit flat, a bit too bare. Not unfinished, but like it’s waiting for that final layer that brings it all together.

At Altrove, we see this happen all the time. And more often than not, it’s not about buying more things- it’s about styling it. 

We go for throws when cushions aren’t enough.

You’ve placed the cushions. You’ve mixed the textures. But the space still doesn't feel warm enough? That’s when we bring in a throw. Draped over a couch arm, casually lying at the foot of a bed, or even on a reading chair, it instantly softens the mood and makes the room feel cosy without trying too hard.

Books and artwork 

Styling shelves is tricky, it can either feel too full or too empty. That’s where books (the beautiful, hardbound kind) and small artworks come in. A stack of books, a framed piece leaning instead of hanging, even a postcard from a trip- they all add story without taking up too much space. Coffee tables too- we love styling them with a couple of coffee table books and a ceramic or two. Just enough to catch the eye, without feeling cluttered

Dining tables need to be simple

Nothing transforms a dining table like good linen. It softens the look and gives the table some personality without having to do a full setup. Add a bowl or a vase, and you’re done. Easy, unfussy, but so pulled together.

Mirrors > 

When walls or consoles feel a little too bare, we usually lean towards mirrors. They reflect light, make the space feel larger and can double up as decor. We love using them on consoles- styled with a candle, a tray, maybe a few stems in a vase. 

Small swaps make a big difference.

Don’t underestimate the power of knobs and handles. A plain console gets a whole new look with brass or iron ones. These tiny details make a much bigger difference than you think they would.

We always, always choose texture over print.

When a space feels empty, our go-to trick is adding texture. Whether it’s a woven cushion, a paper mache vase, or a hand knotted throw- texture brings depth without making things feel busy. It’s subtle, but it makes all the difference.

At the end of the day, filling a space isn’t really about filling it at all. It’s about adding the right pieces that bring a sense of home.