Arranging Accessories

Smart Design : Episode SDN-403 -- More Projects »
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If you collect pictures, there is no reason not to put them all on the wall.
More is more according to Jonathan Adler, who shows ways to display prints, pillows, pottery, knickknacks and accessories. With some simple techniques like grouping by color, size or texture, you can make your favorite collection stand out:

  • Adler believes in maximalism. It's a philosophy that's the opposite of minimalism, so more is more in this case.
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Hang one picture (or plate or other decorative object), and then hang the rest in a pleasing arrangement that's not symmetrical. Keep them fairly tight for a clustered feel rather than a diffused effect.
  • When displaying items on a tabletop, Adler is a big believer in odd numbers because they tend to have a slightly irregular feel.
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    For a couch piled with pillows, choose a color scheme as the main organizing principle, and then add slightly different patterns and different sizes for a feeling of harmony.
  • If you don't want arrangements all over the house, pick one display area, and then switch the collections with the seasons.
    • Learn Design Basics and gain ideas and advice on how to turn your house into a home using paint, fabric and accessories.
    Guests
    Jonathan Adler
    Owner, Jonathan Adler Stores
    47 Greene St.
    New York, NY 10013
    Toll-Free Phone: 877-287-1910
    Website: www.jonathanadler.com
    Also in this Episode
    Smart Design : Episode SDN-403
    •Animal Prints
    •Arranging Accessories
    •How to Buy Antiques
    •Monogramming