9 Designer Tricks to Effortlessly Style Any Surface in Your Home
Some of my favorite places to decorate in my home are the surfaces: coffee tables, consoles, buffets, bookshelves, and more. And I'm always looking for new ways to style and refresh these areas.
So, I was pleased to come across interior designer Julie Khuu's expert designer tips for styling various surfaces throughout the home. Here's her video and her advice summarized below:
Table of contents
1. The Rule of Threes
The "rule of threes" is a classic design principle. Grouping objects in odd numbers, particularly threes, creates a more dynamic and visually appealing arrangement than pairs. This method prevents your surface from looking overly symmetrical or static, drawing the eye across the display naturally.
Ceramic Vase Set of 3
2. Vary Heights and Scales
Creating contrast through varied object sizes is key to a balanced tablescape. Combining small, medium, and large items adds depth and interest, allowing different objects to stand out. When all items are the same size, nothing captures attention, so designers aim for variation in both height and scale.
Multicolor Ceramic Vase Set of 3
3. Mix Textures and Sheens
A well-designed space thrives on contrast, especially when it comes to texture and finish. Pairing smooth and rough surfaces, matte and glossy items, or delicate and sturdy pieces makes the decor more engaging. If everything has the same texture, it lacks visual intrigue, so diversity is essential.
Creative Scents Walnut Decorative Orbs for Bowls and Vases (Set of 3)
4. Play with Color
Color plays a pivotal role in styling any surface. Designers suggest starting with the color of the table or base and choosing decor that either contrasts with or complements it. For example, light-colored tables benefit from darker decor to anchor the space, and vice versa for darker tables.
Kate and Laurel Celia Modern Coffee Table
5. Use Trays for Organization
Trays are a versatile tool that helps streamline the look of a surface. They organize smaller objects and prevent clutter, making a surface appear more polished and tidy. A tray can also create a focal point, especially when styled with plants, books, or decorative objects.
12in White Wood Beaded Tray
6. Be Mindful of Angles
When styling objects like photo frames, pay attention to how they will be viewed. Frames look best against a wall or on a bookshelf where the back is hidden. On tables, ensure that decorative pieces look attractive from all angles, especially if guests will be seated around them.
7. Incorporate Greenery
Foliage adds life and freshness to any space. Whether it’s a bouquet of flowers or branches cut from the garden, greenery brings a natural, vibrant element to your decor. It’s a flexible and often free way to refresh your space, and it can be updated seasonally for variety.
Fake Plant with Rustic Black Clay Planter
Faux Peony Silk Flowers in Vase
8. Add Personal Touches
Personalizing your decor is crucial for making a house feel like home. Incorporate objects that tell a story about your passions or memories. These personal items give the space character and spark conversation, adding warmth and a lived-in feel to the design.
9. Include Interactive Decor
Interactive decor invites guests to engage with your space. This could be a coffee table book open to an inspiring page or a photo album that encourages browsing. The more personal and engaging the object, the more it connects to your life and interests.
Styling Specific Surfaces
Coffee Tables
When styling coffee tables, start by considering the shape. Rectangular tables benefit from groupings of three, and round tables should mimic that shape with circular trays or objects. Seasonal updates like fresh flowers in the spring or candles in the winter can keep the look fresh.
Entry Consoles
Entry consoles should balance beauty and functionality. A mirror for checking your appearance, a tray for keys, and a fresh flower arrangement create a welcoming yet practical vignette. Play with contrasting shapes and angles to add visual interest.
Black Round Mirror, 30 inch
Nightstands
Keep nightstands minimal to promote rest. Decor should focus on function, with items like a table lamp, storage box, or a candle. Avoid clutter by choosing pieces that contribute to a peaceful, organized atmosphere.
Grey Vintage Distressed Ceramic Pot Table Lamp
Bookshelves
Bookshelves offer more opportunity for personal expression. Use large decorative boxes to hide clutter, and balance them with personal items like photo frames or art pieces. Play with the arrangement of books by mixing vertical and horizontal stacks to add variety and texture.
Mango Wood Floral Decorative Boxes, set of 3
Dining Tables
For dining tables, the choice of whether to keep the table fully set or simply styled with a centerpiece is a matter of personal preference. A light fixture above the table can serve as the main focal point, with a simple arrangement of flowers or candles below to complete the look.
Buffets and Consoles
Styling long buffets or consoles is about creating small groups of decor along the surface. Lamps or mirrors can anchor the design, while trays, vases, or flowers add a polished touch. For modern, minimal styling, use smaller objects and keep the decor simple.
Tip: Shop Your Home First
Before purchasing new decor, consider shopping your home first. Gather items from around the house and experiment with different arrangements on each surface. This creative process allows you to refresh your space without spending money, and it encourages a personal, evolving design.
What do you think of these interior design tips and tricks? Let me know which you'll be trying out in your home in the comments below.
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