Got Stuff? Turn it Into Decor
Branches, Bottles, Baskets and Hats Become Mini Designs Around the Home
I'm a freelance writer and design enthusiast who believes the best design is collected, not decorated, and that homes should always be as comfortable and functional as they are chic. In addition to writing for Houzz, I work as the Head Copywriter for Layla Grayce and Zinc Door.
I'm a freelance writer and design enthusiast who believes the best design... More »
Have spare space and wondering how to fill it? Can't seem to find the perfect side table? Found a great lamp but haven't been able to locate its match in a lampshade? It's possible the solution is sitting right in front of you. Everyday objects, when used right, can double as stylishly clever design accessories. Take a spin through these photos; I promise you'll be marveling as your once seemingly boring surroundings become uniquely design-worthy. Even your old cowboy hat may have a place in your living room decor.
by Dreamy Whites
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Cowboy hats. I'm sure this lamp intended to light the way, but its look is way more interesting (and fun!) when paired with cowboy hats rather than a light bulb and shade. If you have cowboy hats sitting in the coat closet, pull them out: I'm sure you can find a more suitable spot for them somewhere in your home.
Serving bowls. Today's serving bowls come in a variety of colors, styles and patterns, so instead of hiding their charm beneath a pile of fruit, just let them be in all their glory. They're also a great object to place on a console near the front door to catch your keys (as long as you can resist cluttering it with junk mail).
by Kasey Buick
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Hat boxes. Hat boxes may be a thing of the past, but it's that exact antique quality that makes them so chic when incorporated into decor. This usage is especially creative: Hung on the wall inside a frame, it gives the impression of three dimensional artwork. The red hat box provides a great pop of color, and adds height to the wrought iron sculpture.
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by Home & Harmony
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| Luggage. In general, seating areas should be surrounded with some sort of surface area for drinks, magazines, etc. If your search for a side table has left you fruitless, drag out those vintage suitcase hand-me-downs from storage. Way more interesting than your typical table. |
by Imagine Living
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Mirrors. It's no secret that mirrors do a world of good for spaces, but if you've been hunting unsuccessfully for an oversized mirror, perhaps you should try this trick instead. This set comes as one piece, but you can easily recreate the look with individual mirrors. Look around — you may have the perfect collection of forgotten mirrors in your very house.
Clocks. Need an object to perfect your vignette? Look no further than a small clock. Its size balances this grouping of the candle holders and lamp, plus it's functional. Check out some antique stores to find one with a unique face.
by Dreamy Whites
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Instruments. Vignettes work best when objects are grouped in threes or fours; if you're looking for a larger complement to a bedside table, why not your acoustic guitar? When grouped with a rustic shutter and chair, the look feels collected and eclectic. Plus, it's in perfect reach to strum a few soothing bedtime songs before you hit the sack.
Trays. If Grandma's silver is collecting dust in the China cabinet, liberate it from its life unseen by hanging the trays above your sofa. They'll be on display every day in a fashion unique to your home.
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by Dreamy Whites
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| Glass jars. This is an oldie but still a goodie. There are always multiple uses for glass jars in the house, whether they become vases, home to colorful candies in the kitchen, or simply arranged into a display. |
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| Books. Books need not be banished to the shelving unit! They make great accessories to vignettes, working especially well when you need to add a bit of height to an object. Feel free to play with the books you choose to include: Similarly bound books will create visual unity, while a variety of different books will bring color and an eclectic vibe. |
by Planet Fur
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Branches. Without a doubt, some of the best design solutions are found in your backyard. Trying to work in a textured element with unique interest to your tablescape? Survey the yard: There are sure to be a few straggling branches that need a new home.
Plants. Using plants in your decor is not necessarily newsworthy, but how about grouping several together to create a chic display? Plants are so often added as a singular element, but when the vignette is only about plants, your space becomes infused with great vitality.
Wine glasses. Setting wine glasses in a grouping on your banquette not only adds a stylish element, but it helps you cut down on party prep. With the wine glasses permanently set out, you're always ready to go.
by Kasey Buick
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Wire baskets. Instead of your typical vase, consider using a wire basket to ground a branch display. Adding linen softens the look and helps collect dirt or particles that may stray from the branches.
by Dreamy Whites
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Fruit. What stool is complete without a couple of pears? Every space in the home is deserving of a unique touch, and fruit is a fresh, inexpensive and always chic option for a great style detail.
More decorative details:
Vintage Modern Elements: Telephones
Clever New Uses for the Picture Frame
Treat Yourself to a Bouquet of Flowers
More decorative details:
Vintage Modern Elements: Telephones
Clever New Uses for the Picture Frame
Treat Yourself to a Bouquet of Flowers
Comments
newmouse Thank you for all the great ideas. I am getting ready to stage my home for sale, and this idea book has many no or low cost examples.
2 years ago · Like
Pam Repurposing brings such a spirit of sweet nostalgia to a home. This is a lovely ideabook. Thanks for sharing your inspiration!
2 years ago · Like
bepsf I enjoy using serving trays on the dresser to corral cologne bottles, appetizer plates in the bathroom to catch little bottles of lotion, etc, vintage ceramic cigarette boxes to catch keys, reloadable laundry cards and collar stays, etc.
2 years ago · Like
Decor Adventures I love this post. What a unique collection of accessories, and new ways to decorate.
2 years ago · Like
Shawn Gauthier So happy you all found this inspirational! At the end of the day, there is really no need to dish out top dollar for great style. Plus, when you think outside of the box, you get a look that's truly your own! Way more fun than anything mass-produced! (In my opinion, anyway! ;)).
2 years ago · Like
Ideabook updated on May 13, 2011.
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