How to Style Decorative Objects
02/05 How To

How to Style Decorative Objects

A conversation with our stylists

The idea of decorative objects can be intimidating.

We’ve noticed there’s a general conception that objects are one of those unnecessary, “interior-designy” things that are just for show.

We get it; it can be hard to wrap your head around investing in a sculptural object that has little or no meaning to you, only to place it on your coffee table for the rest of its life.

However, we’re here to argue that decorative objects don’t have to be fussy, and sometimes, an object can pull a space together like nothing else can.

Here are a few tips from our styling team on how they style decorative objects:

How to Style Decorative Objects
How to Style Decorative Objects

Decorative Object Styling Tip No. 1: Don’t overthink it

The great thing about decorative objects is that they can be pretty fool-proof. A large, interesting sculptural object might be the only thing you need to instantly elevate an entryway vignette, and a smaller, decorative piece can effortlessly add dimension to your coffee table. 

"Objects easily make everything look done; they bring the feeling of completeness to a room and make it look like you thought about every moment in your home."

Kristine Metcalf, VP of creative
How to Style Decorative Objects
How to Style Decorative Objects

"It's important to break up the space in a vignette, which is exactly what objects do. They bring an unusual element and create excitement."

Danielle Munz, stylist
How to Style Decorative Objects
How to Style Decorative Objects

Statement sculptural objects

One and done
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McGee & Co.
Linked Wood Object
Target
Soapstone Puzzle Figurine
McGee & Co.
Bent Iron Object
Target
Metal Knot Figurine
Iron Cubed Object

Decorative Object Styling Tip No. 2: Make it personal

If decorative or abstract pieces aren’t your thing, you can still get the finished look objects bring to your space by incorporating personal elements in unique ways. 

"An object used for styling can be as simple as a piece of driftwood you found on a beach vacation. Find a way to display something that means something to you, and it will become a conversation starter."

Kristine Metcalf, VP of creative.
How to Style Decorative Objects
How to Style Decorative Objects
How to Style Decorative Objects

Our favorite accent pieces

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McGee & Co.
Cement Head Sculpture
Target
Glass Leather Vase
McGee & Co.
Distressed Brass Pot
Target
Crock Stoneware Vase

Decorative Object Styling Tip No. 3: Find some balance

If you’re styling an object and something just feels off, try experimenting with how you’re balancing the visual weight in your vignette. Maybe you need to add a lamp to the other side of a console table to pull the look together or contrast the materials in a built-in to keep things from feeling too one-note. 

How to Style Decorative Objects

"We often use books to elevate objects, a stack of two or three on a coffee table or built-in can add height and give the space balance."

Jen Paul, stylist
How to Style Decorative Objects
How to Style Decorative Objects
How to Style Decorative Objects

Decorative Object Styling Tip No. 4: Merge function with form

If you’re short on space or you’re looking for something a little more practical, pretty everyday objects can be used as statement-making styling pieces, too. 

"Objects that are both functional and beautiful and can be styled when not in use are a good place to start. Try a pair of bookends, a pretty door stopper, or a paperweight that doubles as a decorative piece."

Kristine Metcalf, VP of creative
How to Style Decorative Objects
How to Style Decorative Objects
How to Style Decorative Objects

Functional form

Practical and pretty
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McGee & Co.
Stone & Iron Door Stop
Metal Bookend Pyramid Gold
Marble Pyramid Bookends
Decorative Paulownia Wood Bowl
McGee & Co.
Knot Door Stop
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