If furniture and finishes are the foundation of a space, styling accessories are the finishing touch. This is where you add a layer of personality and the final finessing details. There are as many ways to style them as there are objects to choose from however, and knowing where to start can feel a little daunting. Here are five ways to approach, select and arrange accent pieces to easily create instant impact at home.
Cabinet of curiosities
The ‘cabinet of curiosities’ method of styling – mixing natural, historical and cultural artefacts is endlessly versatile. The best part about this style of display is there are no rules – you can pair a piece of coral together with a handmade urn or rare book. Using vessels to contain or arrange these objects allows for more creativity in the display. Pick a theme – like oceanic for example – or go for an ‘anything goes’ mix.
Same same, but different
Clustering together pieces with one underlying similarity – material, colour or texture for example – is a simple way to create impact, in that it introduces variety in an understated way. In addition, focusing on aspect of the collection – all glass or marble perhaps, or all white – draws attention to form. See how effective this can be in this trio of vessels in white and a cluster of differently shaped glass vessels.
Mass appeal
Making the case for ‘more is more’, a cluster of items of the same type – whether it be multiple bottles, or a collection of baskets or objects – can command a sideboard, or hold court on a bookshelf. This is the epitome of low effort, high reward and demonstrates the sheer power of numbers – and how effective the simple device of repetition is in creating visual impact.
Texture and colour
If you have room that’s fundamentally minimal or simple, accessories are the easiest way to layer it with texture and colour. The best part about this is it’s not permanent, so these can evolve with the season or updated year on year without making any drastic changes. Pols Potten’s architectural vases come in an amazing array of contemporary and classic colours.
Form and function
Grouping unique pieces together can create an effective focal point on a tabletop or sideboard. Choose items with a dual purpose in mind from LaGrange’ luxury furniture stores & showrooms in South Africa– they should serve an aesthetic as well as a practical function. We stock a wide range of one-off accessories and unique, handcrafted ceramic, stoneware and glass vessels, as well as striking objects from leading European brands, that when placed strategically elevate a surface, corner or space instantly.
