One of the most challenging task that I come across when decorating a space is how to deal with a collection that a client my have. This design dilemma comes into play with everyday decor and is also something that I often deal with when decorating a home during the Christmas season.
So, today I thought I’d share a few tips and techniques on Decorating With Collections, so that your treasured possessions will enhance your decor instead of being just a bunch of stuff.
COLLECTIONS ARE A GREAT WAY TO ADD IMPACT TO A SPACE! Displaying a collection on a focus wall or on a key piece of furniture will not only provide a visual impact within your decor, but your collection, whatever it is, will feel important and personal.
There are several collections being displayed prominently in this photo. The wall of mirrors adds interest, texture and dimension along that long staircase wall, and the collection of pottery in the hutch draws your eye down into the room. I love that all the “collected” elements in this space all have the same feeling and are in the same color family.
A fun way to create storage, display a collection and make an impact!
Collections don’t have to be all the same type of item, they can be a grouping of items that have the same feel, purpose and styling. Here a collection of vintage and rustic decorative and serving pieces is beautifully displayed in this cabinet.
Long hallway walls are a great place to display a collection. Limit the number of items so that each piece stands out and the space doesn’t become overwhelming.
I love to see a collection displayed on a tabletop. These dog reinforce the artwork on the wall and add a whimsical touch to the traditional decor.
KEEP COLLECTION DISPLAYS ORGANIZED AND FOCUSED! This is one of the most important things you can do when displaying a collection. You want the items in your collection to stand out and not look like a jumbled mess.
Framing a collection is a great way to unify different styles and colors of a similar item and give it impact. And remember, for more eclectic decor, the frame styles don’t all have to be the same, just make sure they are the same color to create a sense of unity.
Here’s another great example of several collections displayed together. This works because the color story is narrow and similar objects are kept together, giving each vignette impact and importance. Also notice how the size of items vary throughout the bookcase, giving the entire arrangement depth and dimension.
More mirrors on display. All silver frames in the top image, antique mirrors in the middle and round shapes below.
ARRANGE COLLECTIONS IN AN ARTFUL WAY–BE CREATIVE! Don’t think museum display when you’re thinking about how to display your collection. Think outside the box and showcase the things you love in a creative way.
Typewriters displayed in a unique fashion!
Maybe you have a collection of found objects. Display then in a unique container that allows each piece to stand out but keeps the collection in tact.
Glass jars are one of my favorite ways to display a collection of smaller items. I adore this collection of buttons in a vintage jar and the collection of antique forks is beautiful in its glass cylinder.
So cute, easy and cheap! Vintage buttons on a cork square with clear pushpins!
Hats usually get shoved onto a closet shelf. Here they are displayed on a focal wall and really make a statement.
Truly creative!
USE COLOR TO YOUR ADVANTAGE! If your collection allows, try grouping like colors together or maybe create a beautiful flow of color.
This glass jar collection is so beautiful not only because it’s displayed in front of a window, but also because it’s grouped to mimic the feel of a rainbow.
Love books grouped by color. Remove your book jackets and you just might have a new way of displaying your books.
A collection of boxes that pulls colors for the textiles serves as a beautiful backdrop to this room. Smaller boxes are grouped together to balance the larger boxes that sit alone on a shelf.
What can I say? This makes me want to start collecting teapots. Overlapping the teapots and turning the spouts in different directions adds to the charm of this collection. And, a background of color enhances the color impact of this display.
CREATE DEPTH, TOP to BOTTOM, and FRONT to BACK! Just as you do with tabletop decor, create interest for the eye as it moves throughout your display.
Vary the heights of items to create movement
Remember scale–smaller items surround and frame larger items giving the entire arrangement impact and symmetry.
Just in case the photos above weren’t inspiration enough, here are a few more photos of beautiful collection displays!
Think about what your display is shown ON or IN, because it adds to the overall impression you are making.
Smaller objects have more importance when given impact.
Such a creative way to capture memories and create a collection!
If you’re someone who has a collection, devote the time and energy to making sure your collection is an integral part of your decor. Show your collection some LOVE!