Whether you're a fan of the minimalistic approach, prefer a curated look, or enjoy the eclectic charm of a collected feel, there are endless possibilities to transform this functional furniture into a statement piece for your home.
Cabinets, bookcases and shelves are more than just storage spaces; they can be used as a showcase for your most cherished possessions and to show off your personal style.
Whether you're a fan of the minimalistic approach, prefer a curated look, or enjoy the eclectic charm of a collected feel, there are endless possibilities to transform this functional furniture into a statement piece for your home.
Design by Emily Kates
One of the most important designer tips we can share is this: styling and accessorizing the home is just as important as purchasing the bigger furniture pieces! When styling intentionally, you add interest and layers for a lived-in look.
The Minimalist Look
For those who appreciate simplicity and a clean, uncluttered aesthetic, the minimalist approach to choosing and styling your décor is the way to go. Keep it simple with a small selection of carefully chosen items. Decorative boxes, sleek baskets, and a few well-placed vases can add a touch of elegance without overwhelming the space.
1. Choose a neutral palette.
Stick to a neutral color palette for a calm and cohesive look. Whites, grays, and natural tones work well to create a serene atmosphere.
Design by Light and Dwell | Photography by Michael Clifford
2. Limit decorative items.
Embrace the less-is-more philosophy by selecting only a few high-quality decorative items. Choose items that bring you joy and serve a purpose.
Design by Light and Dwell | Photography by Tim Lenz
3. Play with shapes and textures.
Despite the limited number of items, introduce visual interest by incorporating different shapes and textures. This can be achieved through the use of geometric vases, textured baskets, or sleek, modern boxes.
Styling by Colin King
The Curated Look
This style is all about layering to showcase your personality and function. For those who enjoy a balance between simplicity and personal expression, the curated look offers the perfect blend. This style allows for a medium level of products and styling, providing an opportunity to showcase your personality and interests.
1. Master the art of layering.
Similarly to how you can use trays to corral items on a coffee table, you can artfully layer in your favorite pieces, like your favorite candle, a bowl, or a small keepsake from travel or a gift from a loved one. The idea is to incorporate more functionality into your styling while also putting your more precious pieces on display, like a crystal dish or vase.
Design by Rethink Design Studio
Design by Bodine White | Photography via Scout & Nimble | SHOP THE LOOK: Belmont Metal Cabinet
2. Create visual harmony.
While you have more freedom in the curated approach, it's essential to maintain a sense of visual harmony. Choose a cohesive color scheme or theme to tie the elements together.
Design by Heidi Caillier | Photography by Haris Kenjar
DESIGNER TIP
Play with combining contrasting yet complementary textures. For instance, pairing a woven tray with a smooth ceramic vase can add so much interest. Keep in mind, when looking at a vignette, you want it to feel cohesive with coordinating colors that play well together. When doing a larger vignette like a built-in bookcase, you want your colors and textures to repeat, in a sense, without being too matchy-matchy.
The Collected Look
For true individualists who love to surround themselves with memories and meaningful items, the collected look is the ultimate expression of personal style. This heavy level of products and styling allows you to showcase a diverse range of pieces that hold sentimental value.
1. Showcase pieces with history.
Infuse your cabinet, shelf or bookcase with pieces that carry stories, whether it's souvenirs from travels, historically-inspired artwork, family heirlooms, or your favorite books. Each item should evoke a sense of nostalgia and personal connection.
Design by TOM Interior Design Studio | Photography by Patrick Biller | VIEW HOME TOUR: TOM Interior Design Studio’s Rustic-Meets-Modern Ski Chalet
2. Mix eras and styles.
Don't be afraid to mix different eras and styles. Think of the piece you’re styling as a canvas for you to blend vintage finds with contemporary pieces seamlessly.
Design by Sean Anderson | Photography by Haris Kenjar
3. Display photos.
Incorporate personal photos into the space to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Mix framed photos with other cherished items to create a gallery-like display.
Design by Jenn Feldman
DESIGNER TIP
Styling decor is more of an art than a science. Don’t feel like you have to get it right the first time. Try switching out objects and rearranging them until the space feels balanced.
Design by Meghan Carter
The journey starts now to discover your decorating style.
Styling your piece is a creative endeavor that allows you to transform a functional piece of furniture into a work of art. Whether you lean towards the simplicity of the minimalist approach, the curated balance of styles, or the eclectic charm of a collected look, the key is to infuse your personality into the space. Experiment, have fun, and let your arrangement tell the unique story of you and your home.
Here are some of our favorite pieces to help get your creative juices flowing for your next décor refresh:
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The day I spent four hours tracking down a single light fixture while three clients were waiting for design decisions, I realized something had to change. You can create the most beautiful spaces in the world, but without systems that scale, you'll spend more time putting out fires than actually designing.
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keep readingThe day I spent four hours tracking down a single light fixture while three clients were waiting for design decisions, I realized something had to change. You can create the most beautiful spaces in the world, but without systems that scale, you'll spend more time putting out fires than actually designing.
keep readingWhen a designer you admire chooses to include pieces from Scout & Nimble in their own home, it means the world. This month, we're thrilled to share a glimpse into Jennifer Hunter's beautifully curated Connecticut sanctuary—and the few special pieces she selected from our collection to make it her own.
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