What Is A Vignette?
'Vignettes are a perfect opportunity to gather and put together a grouping of decorative objects. Think of this display as a mini-story where one can include pieces from their travels, sentimental objects, or even personal photos or meaningful works of art,' says Paul Corrie, founder of Washington, D.C.-based Paul Corrie Interiors.
1. TRANSFORM AN UNDERUSED CORNER
'Our approach to vignettes is to make what may be an otherwise unused or overlooked corner feel inviting and cozy, which is achieved by creating layers in the space,' says Gale Sitomer, founder of New York City-based Gale Sitomer Designs.
2. BEGIN WITH MORE THAN YOU NEED
Like any good design scheme, a successful vignette starts with big ideas and is thoughtfully edited down to pared-back perfection. Rayana Schmitz, founder and principal designer of Florida-based Firefinish Interiors, suggests collecting a generous assortment of design accessories before putting your vignette together.
3. USE A CONSOLE TABLE FOR THE FOUNDATION
When faced with an empty living room corner, it can be difficult to know where to start – should you invest in something stately like a bookshelf, or stick with something smaller? One classic way to kick a put-together vignette design off is with a styled console table. Layer on the accessories and place the table amidst artwork for a curated and personalized final look.
4. START WITH A TRAY AND LAYER
Trays also serve as worthy foundations for stunning vignettes – organizational tools that are also visually pleasing, they pull the whole look together. Caroline says this trick is a classic, and works with a wide array of decorative accessories. Pick out a tray that matches your home's aesthetic, and layer on items you love.
5. THINK OF YOUR DISPLAY LIKE A MOUNTAIN
'When creating a vignette, we encourage you to think of your display like a mountaintop, where there is a peak (that doesn’t necessarily need to be centered) but then trickles down on both sides. The object relationship shouldn’t be jarring, but comfortably, and steadily, make its way towards a unified foundation,' says Paul.
6. KEEP ITEMS PERSONAL AND STICK WITH VINTAGE
Decorating with family heirlooms and decorating with antiques are two surefire ways to achieve a comfortable, joyful home that exudes timeless style. And when these items are thoughtfully placed to create a vignette, the impact is even greater.
7. CREATE A COHESIVE COLOR STORY
'Color relationships are also important. Think of the colors and mediums you’re considering for your vignette so to avoid a chaotic mess that doesn’t relate. And always take your time in editing as the finished product will be much stronger with a thoughtful and creative eye,' says Paul.
8. FOLLOW THE RULE OF THIRDS
The rule of thirds, a method of dividing a space and designing accordingly, is well-respected across artistic professions, and for good reason. In photography, this rule applies to the framing of an image, and in interior design it's all about how objects coexist alongside one another in a space of any size. When creating a vignette, it's a helpful rule to keep in mind, as it allows you to easily find balance and symmetry (or considered asymmetry) with your arrangement.
9. ARRANGE FROM DIFFERENT ANGLES
'Play with color, texture, and scale, mix different styles of furniture, and be sure to thoughtfully incorporate accessories. Try to use a fresh eye as well; look for a good focal point, and consider how everything looks from different angles or vantage points, say Joe McGuier and Megan Prime, co-founders of JAM – a Brooklyn-based architecture and design studio.
10. DON'T FORGET ABOUT THE BACKDROP
'Consider the backdrop – the wall of surface behind your vignette matters! Consider a contrasting color or texture or pattern,' says Caroline. Don't forget that the color or pattern of your vignette's background will come into play just as much as the accessories it's composed of. Pick out a complementary color, or get experimental with pattern, to level-up the entire look.
11. ALLOW SOME NEGATIVE SPACE
Vignettes are all about layering, but you won't want to go overboard – be sure to leave some room for negative space. Allow each item to stand for itself by giving it space to breathe. This way, you'll be able to appreciate each and every selection within the vignette just as much as the full arrangement.
12. INCORPORATE PLANTS AND GREENERY
Finally, bring some greenery into your vignette for a fresh, lively look that'll never date. A potted indoor plant or two, or a small tree to accompany a console, will breathe life into any forgotten corner of the house.