Home Decorating Guide: Shelf Decorating

Rather than a matching set of mirroring objects, go for asymmetrical arrangements of three, five or seven objects, setting them off center to add a subtle element of surprise. "Odd numbers are usually the most interesting," says interior designer Megan Samuels. Instead of symmetry, what you're aiming for is balance. "Even if you have two matching items, like a pair of beautiful urns, put them on the diagonal," rather than directly opposite each other, Samuels suggests.

Another tip to aid in your asymmetry efforts: Unless your shelves are fixed in a built-in or other shelving unit, "vary shelf heights so they don't all line up exactly," suggests Nancy Barsotti, ASID fellow and interior designer in New York City and Pittsburgh, Pa. You'll be able to use larger pieces and break out of the "lined up soldiers" look that gets boring fast.