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From Vases to Wall Clocks: Fashioning a Curated Collection Display

Even as kids all of us love to collect things and there comes a time in our lives when what started out as a fun pastime turns into a serious hobby. In case of some, collecting their favorite item becomes an obsession of sorts and can engulf their entire lives. But for the less passionate who use collections to create lovely displays, it is all about aesthetics, trends and ways in which one can add to the visual appeal of their home. The items we collect might change over time, but it is undoubtedly their presence as a curated group that makes the biggest visual impact.

Modular living room wall unit decorated with vases

When it comes to a fabulous display of collectibles, numbers always seem to come up trumps. But that does not mean you have to turn that open shelf in the living room, entryway console, dining room credenza or even the bedside table into a cluttered space filled with different groups of items. Styling a collection is all about visual balance, grace, fitting in with the theme and color scheme of the room and of course, showcasing your passion Be it just decorative vases or antique picture frames, here are 25 hip inspirations that show you how to display a collection –

Perpetually Popular Vases!

When it comes to displaying collections, vases undoubtedly are the leaders of the pack. The style of the vases, their hues and arrangement might vary with changing trends, themes and popular decorating inspirations, but vases themselves never go out of style. This stays true in 2017 with a collection of vases once again finding space in every catalog, display and stylish contemporary home across the globe. A collection of vases is easy to create, exudes an aura of uniqueness because of the individual pieces despite the idea itself being more generic and almost always budget-friendly.

RELATED: 3 Stylish Ways to Display a Collection

Pastel pink vases coupled with cool sidetable for fabulous entry
Simple collection of vases on the dining table is an easy decorative arrangement to work with
Slim white vases coupled with fabulous flowers in red

Of course, you can even splurge on rare pieces and antiques and stunning vases that feel more like works of contemporary art. But those on a shoestring budget can also fashion a fabulous display that grows organically with time as you add more pieces to it. Make sure there is at least one constant when you bring together your vase collection. It could be underlying style, material, finish or even color; but keeping one trait constant gives the collection a more curated and classy appeal.

Vases in black move away from the usual white vase decorating trend
White vases are the perfect decorative pieces that leave the neutral color scheme undisturbed
A dash of earthen charm for the modern interior
Event the pendants add to the lovely display here!

Turn to the Walls

It is obviously open shelving that often plays host to a fabulous collection display. Using the vertical space on offer is a great way to ensure that your collection feels even more important in the overall scheme of things. High shelves also allow the stylish collection to shine through more effectively. Whether it is a group of black and white framed photographs on a ledge, gorgeous paintings that are illuminated beautifully or even an eclectic, odd item that you love to collect – the right shelving makes a big difference indeed.

Glod-framed paintings usher in Victorian charm
Living room gallery wall is the perfect way to create a lovely display

Utilizing the wall space on offer does not necessarily mean the presence of open shelving is a must. There are times when a blank wall itself acts as the perfect backdrop to showcase your collection. Wall clocks, empty frames, unique artwork or even a collection of fascinating mirrors – surround yourself with a collection that you absolutely adore!

Timepieces in the backdrop bring quirky elegance to the room
Curated display of framed artwork on a ledge with fabulous lighting
Empty picture frames can also be used to fashion a striking display

Modern Eclectic Displays

One of the biggest ways in which your collection can alter a modern interior is by giving it a subtle theme that ventures beyond the mundane. For instance, a simple collection of Chinese figurines casually placed on the coffee table or even on the floating shelf next to the TV unit can usher in an understated oriental vibe. Couple this with a few cleverly placed Asian style decorative pieces and even a Chinese garden stool or two and you suddenly have a living room that has a theme beyond just plain ‘modern’! This approach to decorating also allows you to change the aura of a room easily with changing trends without moving around larger furniture pieces.

RELATED: How to Display a Collection with Flair

Collection of vases coupled with framed art work and posters in the backdrop
Combine different textural elements to shape a more diverse display
Lineup of kettles definitely stands out from the pack
Smaller collection of vases is perfect for tiny tables
Smaller number of vases and collectibles can also make a bold impact
Vases, cups and more shape a smart, modern display here
Collection of globes and maps for the home office display

A Collection with Geo Twist

Love geo style? So do we and apparently a plethora of top designers and decorating firms across the world! This is precisely why geometric decorative pieces still seem to hold sway as 2016 rolls on into its second half. Geometric vases, sculptural geo accessories and wiry metallic finds that usher in contrast are a big hit when it comes to contemporary collections. It is contrast, creativity and inimitability that trump the traditional idea of ‘strength in numbers’ here as this is a collection that is all about modern flair and trendy panache.

RELATED: Creative Tips for Displaying Collections With Style

Display of your favorite collectibles need not always be grand
Home office shelf decorated with geo style vases
Simple collection of vases in diverse hues
Wiry vases bring metallic and geo style to the living room
Decorate your living room or kitchen shelves with your favorite collectible

Sherry Nothingam

Sherry is a blogger who loves to live her life to the fullest. She enjoys everything associated with design, décor and stylish modern trends. Born in California, Sherry has grown up on open ranches and in a wild setting, which has defined her taste for design and developed her interest in examining how structures and homes interact with the beauti[...]

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