I used to think decorative objects were frivolous. If I was going to spend my money on decor, it had to be functional, like a pillow, throw blanket, or lamp.
But my decor was always boring. There was nothing interesting to look at.
I was missing a very important piece of the decorating puzzle.
Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful. – William Morris
Turns out we need functional objects as well as beautiful objects.
Objects aren’t just expensive space fillers. They can make or break a room.
- Decorative objects break up all the vertical and horizontal decor.
- Decorative objects add the most personality to a room.
- Decorative objects are fun to look at and can make you happy.
Here’s eight of my favorite objects to decorate with:
1. Decorative Spheres
I love using spherical shapes to break up all the lines in a room. You can find decorative spheres in a variety of finishes from wood to stone to metal.
2. Lanterns
I love all the sizes and shapes that you can find lanterns in, and they’re not just for outdoors. They look great inside too when you’re sick of using another vase. You can put candles inside or put in a small plant and make it a mini greenhouse.
3. Small Plants and Natural Elements
Organic shapes are super important to introduce into your decorating to bring some life to an arrangement. Use small potted plants, driftwood, feathers, and other natural elements to liven up your decor. Even faux flowers and plants can work.
4. Bells
Bells are a personal favorite of mine because I love the shape and I love that you can find them in silver, brass, or ceramic finishes. I think they’re just an interesting quirky touch to you décor. I even hung a ship’s bell in my kitchen to use as a dinner bell.
5. Star-shaped or Pointy Objects
Similar to the decorative spheres, star-shaped and pointy objects add a lot of movement to your decor. Some examples include my gold-foil stars, my DwellStudio urchin, and decorative jacks.
6. Animal Figurines
In my house, I could never have too many animal figurines (I did study Biology after all). For anyone, I think, decorative objects are a great way to introduce a favorite animal or mascot in your home.
7. Letters, Numbers, and Symbols
You’ve probably seen the H monograms all over my home. It’s fun to personalize your space with a favorite number, symbol, or your last initial. This is a must in kids rooms.
8. Small Decorative Trays
You know how much I love serving trays, but I also love little trays. They’re are great on top of a stack of books or on an entry table to catch change and keys.
Add Instant Character and Meaning to Your Home
Remember, objects add character to your room. You can use almost any type of object to decorate with, but you get bonus points with me if the objects you use have special meaning to you. I want you to look for objects and artifacts that represent your hobbies and interests to personalize your décor.
If you need to grow your collection of decorative objects, then check out my free guide, 21 Favorite Places to Shop Online for Furniture and Décor for some of my favorite places to get decorative objects.
