Combining patterns, textures, colors and accessories in unexpected ways can add a new dimension to a space. "Layering," as interior designers call it, can transform rooms from boring and unfinished to exciting and complete. "The best layering in design should look natural," says designer and blogger Linda Leyble of The Colorful Bee in Great River.

Leyble points out similarities between layering in design and layering in fashion. "Most of us innately understand the art of layering in fashion, even if we think we don't," she says. "We do it unconsciously every day. We add a sweater over a shirt and then add a scarf with a similar color scheme. We add jewelry in the same colorway, plus shoes, a purse and other accessories that blend. But when it comes to our rooms, we either err on the side of blandness or we go overboard with too much stuff."

Here is the work of five designers that incorporated layering meant to showcase each homeowner's personal style.

Twenty-five years ago, the deadliest terrorist attacks on U.S. soil occurred. Long Islanders tell us how 9/11 has shaped them. Credit: Newsday

LIers reflect on how 9/11 impacts them to this day Twenty-five years ago, the deadliest terrorist attacks on U.S. soil occured. Long Islanders tell us how 9/11 has shaped them.

Twenty-five years ago, the deadliest terrorist attacks on U.S. soil occurred. Long Islanders tell us how 9/11 has shaped them. Credit: Newsday

LIers reflect on how 9/11 impacts them to this day Twenty-five years ago, the deadliest terrorist attacks on U.S. soil occured. Long Islanders tell us how 9/11 has shaped them.

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