When it comes to arranging tabletops around the house, there are a few easy tricks to make your displays look stylish and well thought out. There is an art to making each arrangement look natural and not overly contrived with meaningless objects. The art of arranging tabletop vignettes that are unique is in the details and variety of items assembled. Here are ways to get your tabletop vignettes to an art form.
Whether you have many items or just a few, arranging them on a tabletop may take some trial and error at first until you achieve the look that works.
Varying heights of objects is important to achieve a well-balanced display. Tall candlesticks beside bottles and smaller objects create interest. Using several like objects gives the vignette balance. Gradual heights work best. For example, mix tall candlesticks with smaller ones about 2/3 the height of the tallest. Then mix in pieces that are lower in gradual heights.
Books are a great addition to any tabletop vignette. Not only do they offer a glimpse into your interests, they work as pedestals for other items. They work well to balance out trays. Vintage books create a beautiful aesthetic and using colorful book covers gives the tabletop arrangement a pop.
Trays are a great way to group smaller items on a tabletop. Trays can be very decorative or simple and chic to blend into the vignette. Arrange trays amid books and other items to create a balanced coffee table display. Trays can also take the place of coasters to protect your tabletop.
Creating vignettes in multiple levels adds depth and interest. A two-tiered coffee table can function as a place for storage on the bottom level, while a creative display adorns the top. Choose pretty containers or baskets to store books, magazines and remotes on the second tier of the coffee table.
A multi-level display using shelves and a cabinet is a great way to display collections or to add interest to a space.
Asymmetrical tabletop design is a fresh approach to tabletop vignettes. Balance several smaller pieces against one large piece on either end of a tabletop for a modern appeal.
Symmetrical tabletop display is easily achieved by simply placing a mirror image of items at each end of a display. This is a traditional example of the tabletop vignette and is very appealing for its orderly style.
Include natural elements, such as flowers, plants and other natural curiosities to include variety, texture and depth to your tabletop displays. A simple vase of flowers adds a burst of color and softness to a vignette.
A small potted plant or a terrarium makes for an interesting natural element on a tabletop and mixes well with more organically-inspired furniture and interiors.
Mosses and sea shells are a great filler for many different vignettes as they blend with modern, rustic and traditional designs.
Small items should be grouped together for bigger impact. Collections should be arranged in groupings versus being randomly scattered throughout the room on various tabletops. Again, by varying heights, you can achieve the most impact and visual appeal.
Rotate your accessories periodically to change things up. Store some accessories, as everything you own doesn’t have to be displayed all the time. Experiment with your vignettes and edit the display when necessary. Use books and natural elements to balance out the other items. Above all, create a vignette that is appealing to you while employing these helpful tricks.