The power of styling is pretty intense: when done right, it can present the pieces you love in a new, more flattering light. Mirrors are one of the best tricks for this. They reflect maximum beauty, and accessories that might seem bland or odd on their own get the attention they deserve. All from just moving stuff around… but in the right way!
Not sure where to start? Let these photos of interiors designed by Nate’s firm inspire you to get moving.
Layer wisely. Don’t line up all your objects in a straight row: experiment with stacking and moving pieces to the front to create depth. On this console table in a Chicago penthouse, see how the glossy black box props up a small framed photo, while another frame sits behind two (shorter) pieces. Genius!
Go with a grid. If the process of styling a vignette feels too intimidating, try visualize the space in front of you as a grid – and let coffee table books fill in the spaces. Finish it off with a touch of nature, by way of a vase of flowers and a collection of geodes, as seen in this Tampa home, above left.
Pay attention to scale. Height is SUCH a major factor in a successful vignette. When setting your own scene, make sure you have varying levels to keep things interesting, and give the eye places to land. Notice how in the photo, above right, in Nate’s previous NYC home, there are several different heights on the table. There’s certainly no magic number here, the key is to keep it varied.
Ready to give your coffee table/console/side table a new look with these tips? Show us your work on Instagram with #MyNateBerkus!
Photography by Roger Davies (top and left). Styling by Barri Leiner; photography: Bob Coscarelli (right).