Surface Area

One of the things that I love about living in a house is the space. In previous apartments, I longed for the opportunity to create various tablescapes - a truly under developed skill as a result. Check out some tips from the tablescape master, David Hicks, as featured on Apartment Therapy.

There is a finite amount of space on a tabletop, so editing your arrangement is essential.

Don't forget to consider the size and scale of your table surface when selecting items.

Odd numbers are more appealing to the eye than even numbers. When grouping things together, groupings of 3, 5, 7 or 9 tend to be more visually pleasing.

Focus on an item in the foreground and then arrange the other items behind it to give it depth. Just like an artist arranges a still life to paint, one should remember to use objects to create a foreground, middle-ground, and background.

It's also important to add height. A tall lamp, vase, candlestick, or branch easily gives dimension.

Larger items lend more of an impact than smaller items. That said, don't avoid the use a small objects, just be aware that you need to design with them in mind so they don't get lost or make your arrangement look cluttered. This can easily be achieved by grouping them together so they look like a collection or giving them a pedestal so they stand out.

Stacked books are a great way to elevate items or display smaller items to create a focal point.

When incorporating color, limit your color palette to just a few colors to keep things harmonious. You can also group dissimilar items together by color to create a more coordinated look.

What I am looking forward to most is displaying photos. Here is my tablescape wish list from Ralph Lauren Home. Brass accents are so beautiful in a home.

Glen Brass Dotted Frame

Eagan Brass Inlay Frame

Buffalo horn bowl set accentuated with brass rims