Ryli Jo Designs

The WOW Factor is easy to recognise, but it is not easy to describe.

Want to express your personality whilst also increasing the value of your home?

You know that you have 'got something right' in your home when visitors walk in and say 'Wow'. Their reaction is an obvious indication that they are impressed with what they see.

But, how do we go about getting this reaction?

Is it a matter of placing one particular element in the landscape to stand out like a beacon?

It might be a vividly coloured wall, or an unusual ornament, positioned in a spectacular and memorable way. It could be a 'state of the art' kitchen or an outdoor entertainment area with all the mod-cons. It could be a work of art such as a sculpture or a water feature, or perhaps a mosaic-inlaid piece of furniture, like a table.

The trouble with art, of course, is that it is so subjective. One person's response will not be the same as another's, with some people considering that mass of twisted metal in the middle of your garden to be an edgy expression of abstract modernism, while others think it looks like a pile of old coat hangers.

Still, art says much about your personality and you are never going to be able to please everyone. So, go with your instincts, but try to avoid anything outlandish. Also avoid anything that is trendy or .of the moment. as it will date quickly.