Layering

We layer when we go out in the cold for warmth and coziness.  Did you know that the same effect can be had while layering decor in our homes?  During this time of year as we bundle up, we love to add a variety of complimentary colors and contrasting textures to bring depth to our shelves and table settings.

When decorating on shelves, negative (or empty) space is just as important as the space items occupy and the items themselves.  For example, if you’re working with tall spaces, using items that have a variety of height helps to fill the area without filling the area.  Shelves that have a shorter height benefit from having items arranged horizontally.  Try stacking books on their side, or arranging a photo frame in the landscape orientation.  

Overfilling a shelf can look cluttered and items that you may want to feature could become lost.  If the most important item on the shelf is a family photo in a frame, consider leaving some space on either side of it.  Adjacent items could be photos of different sizes and shapes, or other items such as books and keepsakes that contrast with the frame.  Adding items that have different textures can add visual interest and help tell your story.

Layering on the dinner table is sure to guarantee ‘Oohs and Aahs’ from your guests.

The foundation of any tablescape is the table cloth.  Whether patterned or solid, this essentially sets the background of everything that goes on top.  Patterned runners and placemats add a special extra texture and unify each place setting with the table.  When choosing them, keep in mind how your plates and serving dishes will coordinate. 

 If you have a complex pattern on your plate, you may want a subtle design or solid color on your placemats and runner.  A charger on top of a place mat, under the dinner plate, can help create a color block that can unify your textiles with your plates.  

The centerpiece of your table is also a valuable resource for layering on other elements in your tablescape.  Candle rings can be placed at the base of taper candles and be made of elements in the centerpiece.  Using a material in the centerpiece under a place card, and/or featured within the napkin ring, is also a subtle way to connect all of your decorations.  

If you are serving at the table, I strongly recommend doing a test placement of where your dishes are going to go and that there is plenty of space for passing and putting the food back down when everyone starts to eat.  You may be surprised by how much space you have!

 - Matt