A vignette is a group of objects displayed together to form a focal point. These displays can be on a mantel piece, console table, open shelving or in recessed niches. Breaking up blank walls, adding depth and personality to your home.
Vignettes not only elevate a room but displaying personal objects brings joy, character and warmth to a space. These curated arrangements of all your favourite things form a show stopper – they tell a story, evoke a mood or highlight a particular style. A chance to bring emotion and feeling into your interior.
CREATING A VIGNETTE
The trick with styling is to layer objects of different sizes and textures. While it is nice to keep some repetition for example books repeated but with objects in between. This breaks up the lines and creates interest and movement, leaving some space unfilled also brings balance and harmony (not to feel too cluttered). I feel vignettes change with the seasons in the winter a more cluttered and comforting display is needed where as in the summer months we want more space and freedom.
If you are going for a more maximalist vibe then obviously you would want to leave out the spaces and continue to layer up. Do not be afraid of negative space though you can go as busy or as quiet as you need it to be.
Where to start …I like to start in the middle and work outwards, some would suggest starting at the top. The key is not to take it too seriously and have a play around. You can change things up with the seasons and always take things away that which no longer serve you.
Place large objects at the back, or start with a large picture or mirror. Then work the layers forward.
The rule of three
Use the golden triangle (rule of three) to cluster objects together. Objects in small groups can look more balanced and harmonious.
Add layers
Different heights and sizes bring movement and contrast rot. the space, you do not want it to be too uniformed. Another way to add layers is to wallpaper or paint the backs of the shelves, this creates more interest and depth to the space.
WHAT OBJECTS TO USE…
Plants
House plants breath life into a home and make a wonderful addition to any interior. If they require too much care you can always go faux..
Garden centres, markets and stalls are all great places to find beautiful plants
Books
Books are always beautiful, old or new. In fact you can even buy faux books for your shelves as they are not so many around these days. Stack books as well as lining them up. When stacked they make a nice display and feel less crowded.
Country house library or decor books are good options if you want a large symmetrical display as well as going to charity shops and fairs to pick up some classics.
PIctures
You can have fun with frames in a style that suits you and your aesthetic. Play with size and form here for some texture and movement. These pictures could be photographs, art or even pressed flowers to create some interest and contrast.
Antique fairs are great for frames, you could also try custom made or even the iconic Ikea frame depending on your style..
Ornaments
vases, bowls, glass, crystal or china. These will all bring variety to your vignette creating depth and texture. Play around with different sizes and shapes to bring contrast to the space.
Candles, incense and diffusers
These all add wonderful scents to your home as well as looking pretty.
OBJECTS OF DESIRE
If you are struggling to find objects that bring you joy then go for seasonal interest. Pumpkins in Autumn, Christmas decorations and advents, spring flowers or a collection of summer holiday photographs. The trick is not to overthink or make it all too regimented.
Lighting
Adding lights can be a really good way to add warmth, a string of fairy lights or LEDS. Soft lights will create atmosphere and soften the edges.
Stand back & photograph
Once you have finished its a good idea to stand back and take a photo.. This will help highlight any rogue items or even what looks cool and needs to be repeated.
A vignette is a display of objects that evoke emotion, of different shapes and sizes, colours and textures. These displays bring warmth and harmony to a home. Whether you are a maximnilist or a minimalist vignettes will be a great addition to your home.
